Jaleen Smith (193-PG-1994, college: UNH) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Freeport, Texas that is playing his fifth professional season and first with Alba Berlin. He played the last two seasons with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg averaging 15.2ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (1.8spg), FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 87.5%; and 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 82,8% the season before. In 2018-2019 he played with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) averaging 12,7ppg, 3,9rpg and 2,7apg. In his rookie season with New Hampshire (NCAA) from 2013-2017 where he played a total of 120 NCAA games. He improved his scoring, rebounding and assists average each season and as a senior he played 32 games averaging 15.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 78.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the 2022 easyCredit BBL cup with Alba Berlin

Jaleen thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on winning your first professional title. Has it sunk in yet?


I don’t think it has yet. It feels really good to win that first title.

How long had you been dreaming of this moment? You reached 3 AEC semi-finals at UNH.


It has been a long time coming. I have always been close. I reached the final with Ludwigsburg two years ago and last year the final. I finally was able to clinch a win.

Alba Berlin beat two very good basketball teams Chemnitz and Crailsheim who two years ago, people would have laughed if you had predicted that they would be in the cup final 4 in 2022. How did the club grow mentally being able to win two games like this within 24 hours?

This gave us a big bout of confidence. Especially since we were without Eriksson, Zoosman and Olinde. All our young guys stepped up this weekend. I believe we are really mentally strong now, and when all those guys come back will be really dangerous. I feel it can be anybody’s night from 1-12. Everybody is ready each night.

Talk a little about how you have seen these two teams grow in the last years heck you saw Chemnitz in the Pro A years ago.

I played against both teams in the Pro A. You have to give a lot of credit to their management for progressing each season. Both have built up their teams and they are playoff teams. Crailsheim have recruited really well the last years. It has been cool to see their development and see how competitive they have been in the BBL:

How dangerous is Chemnitz? Could they make a run in the playoffs?

Chemnitz could for sure make a run. They are most dangerous when they play at home. When that arena is full then it could be one of the toughest to play in the BBL. If they can figure out to win on the road and steal some games, then they will be very tough to beat.

You have seen the development of Isaiah Mike the last two years. I have heard talk of the NBA. How good is he really?

He is super athletic and could be one of the most athletic in the BBL with Justin Simon. Any guy can have a shot for the NBA, but he especially can with his athleticism and scoring abilities.

Was the self-confidence sky high after beating Chemnitz? How did Alba Berlin approach the game with Crailsheim?

We actually approached the final against Crailsheim like any other game. We went in prepared to work hard and play our game. It is always an end game with coach Israel. This cup title was a stepping stone, but were not satisfied yet.

How did your day start this morning? Did you have a breakfast for champions? Did you feel some nervousness coming into the final?

I was more nervous before the Chemnitz game. Chemnitz came into the game having beat Ludwigsburg and Munich by 20 points. I was more nervous to see how they would play against us. It was important that we were able to keep our composure after they went up on us. We always stayed together. The final was just like any other game. We came out and played as a team.

The Hakro Merlins had an incredible first half having a 4 point lead. I guess they had done their home work from the 32 point loss a week ago in Berlin. What adjustments did they seem to make?

I think that they were more rested today. When we played them a week ago, they were more fatigued. They were really motivated today after losing to us by 32 points. Plus it was the title for the cup and their emotions and physicality came out. They showed by playing so well in the first half, that they really wanted to win.

What were the fitting words from coach at half-time? Alba Berlin came out revamped and had the 64-58 advantage after three quarters.

We stayed with the game plan. I think key was that our 5 guy helped especially on Shorts when he drove. I have to give credit to Ben Lammers, Christ Koumadje and Oscar Da Silver. They always helped coming over making it hard for him to finish. He missed some that he usually made. That was due to fatigue because of playing heavy minutes.

You had the 14 point lead 74-60, but the Merlins stormed back going on a 16-5 run to cut your lead down to 79-76 with 1-20 to go. TJ Shorts was unstoppable. You obviously have to respect that man’s game, but seriously how much of a pest is that guy on the floor?

I love to compete against him. In crunch-time, he was ready and wanted to win. He just came up a little short. He is a big time player. It is really hard to guard him. Everytime I play him, I know he will give 100%.

With all respect to Parker Jackson-Cartwright of Bonn, but is TJ Shorts the number one MVP candidate after his performance at the cup weekend?

They are both like the same guy, but Shorts is more seasoned in the BBL after his time in Hamburg and just knows how to get to his spots. TJ is my MVP at the moment.

With you up by three points, you could have been that guy to take over but it was actually Maodo Lo who ended the game with a personal 7-0 run. Did you sense that it was his time to shine?

For sure. We went through our vets Luke Sikma And Lo. They have been in these moments so often in their careers. There was a reason why Lo was MVP.

You and Maodo Lo combined for 76 points in the two games. Was he able to elevate his game to a new level after this weekend?

Yes for sure. I know that he wanted to win as badly as I did. It is tough when both guards combine for so much, but that just shows that we both really wanted to win badly.

Talk a little about how vital Germans Jonas Mattissek and Malte Delow have been. How have you seen them grow?

They became more aggressive knowing that we were low on bodies. They were more aggressive this weekend than in the games before. Their defense is always there, but they give us a boost at both ends of the court. They gave me a big boost just by seeing them hit shots.

Would it be fair to say that German Oscar Da Silva was the unsung hero of the final? He had an incredible game at both ends.

I didn’t even know that he had 14 points tonight. He did all the dirty work and did a great job on Shorts making him take contested shots. He was a big help for us this weekend. He is young and still finding himself, but the cup weekend showed what he can really do. He did all the little things this weekend.

You have your first professional title. How thankful are you that you took the Alba Berlin offer and didn’t try to make an NBA team in training camp?

That is why I came back. Knowing that Alba Berlin has had a big history in winning. I always liked the togetherness of Alba Berlin. I really enjoy playing with these guys and it has been such a blessing winning that first title. I’m thankful that I came to Alba Berlin and didn’t go to NBA training camp not knowing what would happen if I didn’t make it.

You had a superb weekend. What do you feel was your biggest strength on this weekend?

I just wanted to win. I knew it would be a dog fight. I wanted to bring my top game and be the most physical on the court. I was more aggressive today and just wanted to win so badly.

How much has your hunger grown in order to win the next title in a few months?

My hunger is even greater now. I want to win another one. I’m already looking forward to the end of the season. I’m sure we will see FC Bayern Munich again. I will be ready for whoever. I want that second title.

I’m sure you didn’t see the dunk contest because you were sleeping, but it was supposed to have been weak. Are there no good dunkers left like the Vince Carters and Michael Jordan’s?

I have no idea. I though Jaleen Green would do well, but he didn’t. They missed a lot of dunks. It’s weird how it is now. I think that the dunks need to be more creative. It seems like the dunks are all the same now. It is tough being more creative when so many of the dunks have been done before. Maybe they need to change the format.

Thanks Jaleen for the chat.

David Cohn is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Elmhurst, Chicago playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen. He played his first two seasons in Israel with Hapoel Eilat (Israel-Winner League) and :Maccabi Hunter Haifa (Israel-Winner League). He began his basketball career with York High School and then played a season at Colorado State University. He then played at the College of William & Mary (NCAA) from 2015-2018 playing a total of 92 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 14.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 6.7apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 91.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 88-85 victory over Nurnberg.

Congrats on the huge 88-85 win. How special is this win? You had to fight back for 34 minutes and then got over the hump and won the game.

Every win is very important for us. It was great that we could get over the hump at the end. At this stage of the season you have to win these type of games, because if you don’t then they could haunt you in the standings.

The first quarter was very tight. Nurnberg spread the ball around and Antonio Davis was hard to stop. Why couldn’t you get away from Nurnberg?

Antonio Davis is a terrific player. I have played against him since I was 8 years old. We go back very far. He is a really good player. He was a real problem for us. We didn’t follow the defensive plan on him. We made some adjustments and he got into foul trouble. That allowed us to go on some runs.

Nurnberg kept the lead at the break 49-44. How bad would it have looked had you not had the support of Robert Drijencic? How vital has his BBL experience been for the team?

Robert has been great. He has been a phenomenal addition for us so late in the season. He is so composed, has a high IQ, is a great passer and shooter. He doesn’t have many flaws. We had a lot of luck that he came in our lap.

After three quarters Nurnberg still had the lead, but the Panthers showed that they wouldn’t give up. Did the adrenalin hide the fatigue the team may have been having or did you feel all was looking good going into the fourth quarter?

You always have an advantage at home. That Davis was in foul trouble was huge for us. They couldn’t do certain things on offense., It’s never over until it’s over. Basketball is a game of runs. It was fortunate that we got the last run.

Demarkus Stuckey made two key baskets in the third quarter. He has had a tough adjustment period. How have you helped him as the point guard this season?

It has been a strange situation having another American point guard. He is a really good guy that always has a positive attitude. I think with him, it’s just a situation where it takes time for him to find his footing. I was really happy to see him make some plays and baskets in the game.

The fourth quarter was really exciting. After missing a free throw, Nurnberg American Antonio Davis made a trey to tie the game at 85-85 with 10 seconds to go. How pumped were to make up for the missed free throw?

Of course I was really pumped. I had sat out a very long period. Something like 17 minutes. I missed the first free throw and then made the second one which was a big relief. They then hit a three pointer. It was dumb that we didn’t foul. I wasn’t bothered by the missed free throw. I was totally dialed in and was totally focused. I thought we would win. Wilson got me the ball and I made a pass to Grant Sitton for a basket. That play got me into the game at that moment.

Did you guys have a play at the end? It seemed like you were the guy to make something happen. Did you even look for any teammates or were you 100% focused on taking the last shot?

I didn’t look for any teammates. I couldn’t even tell you if anyone was open. I felt so confident to take the last shot. I really really wanted that last shot. I really saw no alternative. That last shot for me was meant to be. There are moments in sports where you suffer that black out. It was one of those moments for me.

You hardly played in the fourth quarter. You came cold into the last play. You must have had a lot of confidence to take a shot like that and why did you sit out so long?

Yes I had a lot of confidence. It felt like a destiny moment for me. I was meant to take that shot. You just have to believe in yourself in a moment like that. I sat from the 6 minute mark in the third quarter to the last minute of the fourth quarter. I can’t comment why I sat so long. That was something like 40 minutes real time. It isn’t ideal to take such a big shot after sitting so long, but I was dealt the cards and the shot felt good and I knew it was going in.

How good does it feel to make that game winner? How many have you had in your career?

It was a funny situation for me. I was never that clutch guy before this season. The running joke in high school was that I always chocked under pressure. I really missed so many game winners in high school and college. But this year I have hit three game winners. It feels weird. Maybe it’s because I’m older and have more experience. They say the more experience you have the better you are. I believe that I have learned from missing too much. I’m growing more comfortable now to be able to take those type of shots. I hope that luck transitions to my golf game.

It’s been a tough season for the wiha Panthers Schweniingen but the playoff picture is very tight. How tough has it been for you mentally leading the team as best as you can but still not winning as much as you would like?

We have had a crazy and wild season. We have had so many injuries this season. Our Americans Wilson and Sitton were out and three of our important Germans also missed much time. To think that we are 10-11 now, it really isn’t the worst position. We have to keep our head down and keep going in the right direction. We have a three game winning streak and have to keep it going. Waverly Austin and Robert Drijencic have been huge additions. I can’t say anything negative. We are figuring out a small identity now and have to take this momentum into March when it’s crunch-time. We keep learning from adversary.

You began the season so well wining 5 of 7 games, but then from mid November until Feb was a tough stretch of many loses. What do you feel was the main reason for the club not being able to escape their hole besides all the injuries?

A big factor is experience. When you have to have two Germans on the court, missing that experience really hurts. Not having that experience from our German players really hurt us this season. Losing Justin Pierce also hurt. We just couldn’t catch a break. But the troops have rallied and we signed great Germans. We have experience back.

The defensive end continues to be a problem. Even when you win you give a lot. What does the team have to tweak most in the stretch run?

I can’t comment on that. My job is to take instruction and do the best I can with the instructions that I get. The only important thing for us now is to find ways to win. I don’t care if we win by 2 or 20 points. A win is a win. We have had some really ugly wins. I don’t care how we win.

How good is it to have sniper Chris Frazier back on board? I’m sure he would buy you some meals with all the dimes that you give him?

The dimes and shots go both ways. Chris is a great guy and definitely our veteran leader. He is always so calm. His presence is so huge and I’m really happy to have him back. He is my roommate and I know he will be a guy that I will remain in touch with after the season. We buy each other expresso’s. We take care of each other. It is a two way street. We also need his three pointers.

How tough was it seeing Justin Pierce go? Do you feel like we will see him in Germany again?

That’s a good question. He loves Germany. It was tough to see him go. I was really grateful to play together again with my best friend. I hope he is back in Germany and finds himself a dance partner in the BBL. He definitely has the talent to play there.

Your having a great season been having double double stats of points and assists. How beneficial has this season been for your mental health after not seeing minutes in Israel?

Your exactly correct. My mental health was in near jeopardy. But I had a great support system at home. It was a very tough two years overseas. I wish I had never gotten the Israeli citizenship. It was a disaster. I was working at Tesla last season and was a sales advisor. At the meantime, I was always in the gym. I never gave up. I’m thankful to God that Alen Velcic gave me an opportunity to showcase my skills at the pro level. I achieved a lot of college, but I always knew that I had a lot left and still do.

How do you explain your huge increase in assists this season? You have exploded handing out dimes

I think that the increase has to do with opportunity and nothing more. I truly believe that if I got the same amount of minutes in Israel that I have gotten this season, that the result would be the same. There was a game in Israel where I played 15 minutes and I still got 9 assists. And then I didn’t play in the next game. My skills will always be my skills. I believe in my skills. I believe that I can play at any level. We have a great group of guys this season. It has been so much fun playing with them. I hope they would say the same about me.

Your also shooting the ball pretty well. What other areas of your game have profited this season in the German Pro A?

Having self-confidence is the most important thing in basketball. I made a quick adjustment in the Pro A. I have understood what coach has wanted. We have a lot of talent and I want to keep it going.

You’re a guy that prides defense. How tough is it seeing so many points being given up? What have you done so that you can still be the best defender possible?

I know that I have to work with what I have. I’m not the tallest or biggest, but I’m quick. I always try to be in the right place and talk on defense. I need to affect the game in other ways. I’m thinking the game all the time.

It is isn’t done much but getting that triple double with points, assists and steals has been done before. You had 6 steals in a game this season.

I don’t think I will get it in steals. It would be very hard to get 10 steals. But I was very close already this season having 9 rebounds. That was my big chance. If I ever do get a triple double, it would be cool, but I’m not worried about it.

Have you been able to see some other games live this season on off days? Ludwigsburg isn’t too far from Schwenningen.

I haven’t gone to games, because of Covid: I have really wanted to watch my college teammate Omar Prewitt play who plays in Bamberg. I hope to see him play when he plays inLudwigsburg.

How did you see the James Harden trade. Can Brooklyn win the title this season?

It is hard to follow the NBA overseas. I followed it closely at home. Most of the time, it is hard to win on talent alone. The question is do they have enough time to mesh the talent? They definitely have enough talent now.

Thanks David for the chat.

Eric Washington (182-PG-1993, college: Miami, OH) is a 28 year old 182cm guard from Columbia, South Carolina playing his sixth professional season and first in Germany with the Niners Chemnitz. He began his basketball career with W.J. Keenan High School. He then played in the NCAA playing 115 games for two schools with Presbyterian College (NCAA) and then finished at Miami University (NCAA). Before coming to Germany he played in countries like Cyprus and Bosnia and three seasons in Hungary. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before the Cup weekend.

Thanks Eric for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I am currently in Chemnitz, Germany. Basketball is treating me well. It’s my passion and I’m grateful that I get to wake up everyday and do something that I love.

Before we talk about your career, I have to ask you about how you experienced Covid. You were in Hungry the last two years. What were the biggest challenges for you on and off the court?

Covid has been tough for everyone. For me it has just been an eye opener on how important health is. We are exposed to everything and it’s on us to protect ourselves as much as possible. The biggest challenge off the court was that I had to adjust my routine. Covid forced us to adjust our daily schedule so for anyone who had a routine I would say they had to adjust to a new way of living. The biggest challenge on the court was probably having no fans. I have a new appreciation for fans because they bring that energy that makes our game what it is.

With everything that you have seen with Covid off the court, how do you feel did you grow as a man?

As a man I think I have grown in my patience. Just trusting and enjoying the process.

Your playing your first season in Germany and first with the Niners Chemnitz. What kind of experience has it been playing for this ambitious club? How special is their winning culture?

It has been an amazing experience so far. There are some challenges but they are good challenges in my opinion. I believe it’s a good match because I’m an ambitious person as well. I strive to be better in all aspects of my life. This club is nothing short of that. Originally being in the lower levels of German basketball and to now be in the top league and be at the top of the league says a lot. I appreciate the opportunity to keep that tradition going.

You began the season with Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-ProB) and were putting up crazy minutes and very strong stats. Has it been a difficult adjustment playing only 22 minutes for Chemnitz?

It hasn’t been difficult because I understand they are two different situations. In France, more was asked of me on the scoring aspect. With Chemnitz it’s about playing your role and excelling in that. Just shows you the different dynamics of the game and I’m enjoying learning new parts of the game at this level.

You have put up solid stats for the minutes that you receive. What has been your secret to playing so well so quickly in the best league that you have played in as a professional?

Honestly, just having fun and appreciating the opportunity. I understand the position I am in and I don’t take that for granted.

What has it been like joining a guard duo of veterans Franz Massenat and Trent Lockett? These guys have played at a very high level their whole career. What kind of an impact have they had on you since your arrival?

It has been a cool experience to learn from Trent and Frantz. I have a lot of respect for them and their journey. They give me advice on how to be better with the team and in life in general.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 182cm point guard that can do many things on the court. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I think Chris Paul is someone I could compare my game to.

It seems like you have had to be a playmaker with some teams more in the last years. How do you feel has your playmaking progressed in the last years as you have seen more levels overseas?

I can see my playmaking skills increasing at each level. You go through that process of getting used to the speed of the game or learning your new teammates but once you get comfortable then things become easy. When you’re able to play with better players it makes your job easy.

You have had to pay your dues your first 5 seasons playing second division Hungry and in Bosnia. Did you always have a chip on your shoulder or did that come more when you were a professional player?

I always had a chip. It doesn’t take much to get me motivated. Our game is dominated by size, physicality, strength, etc. Being a smaller player puts you at a disadvantage in most cases. Just because of my size it motivated me to be better.

Why do you feel like it took you 6 years to land in a league like the BBL in Germany? Do you feel it was more failed representation or too many very talented guards and too little spots in top leagues?

I’m not sure. A lot of the things that happened to me were out of my control. I trust God with my path so I believe it’s manifesting how it was originally written.

Your 28 years old and playing your sixth season as a professional. Are you in your prime now? Where do you still want to achieve as a professional basketball player?

My goal is to see how far I can take my career.

You played the last two years with Oroszlanyi Sportegylet E Lions (Hungary-A Division) averaging 16.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.0apg, Steals-2 (2.1spg), FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT-13 (91.5%) and in your second season average Score-3 (19.7ppg), 4.5rpg, Assists-5 (5.1apg), Steals-4 (1.8spg), FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 89.5%. How important were these two seasons in your basketball development? Do you feel like your game rose and made you a more explosive player?

Totally! I learned so much about myself on and off the court. I was provided an opportunity that I never had up until that point. It was a respected league and I was able to showcase what I was capable of. That was everything to me and Hungary will always hold a special place in my heart. I have a lot of respect for the country and the basketball league.

In 2018-2019 you played your first season in Hungary with MAFC Budapest (Hungary-B Division) averaging 24.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 6.3apg, 3.3spg. After having a solid but short season in Bosnia, was it like a slap in the face having to play in the second division?

It was humbling but it served a purpose. Maybe not the best league on paper but it was everything I needed for my growth as a player at the time. It gave me confidence to be the player I am now. I was able to explore the game offensively in ways I was never able to. I had to learn new tricks and trades to the game that I still apply to my situation today. I wouldn’t have never learned those things if I didn’t go to second division Hungary.

Your played your second professional season with KK Bosna-Royal Sarajevo (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 16.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 77.4%. After a solid rookie season in Cyprus, you did land the Bosnia gig until late in the season. What positives could you get out of the that experience?

Trusting the process. Most things won’t come when you want them. So, what are you doing in your time of waiting? I am living out what I visualized in my time of waiting. I just had to be patient and to continue to grow as a man and as a player so I would be ready when that time came.

You played your rookie season with Enosis Neon Paralimni (Cyprus-Division A) averaging13.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (4.7apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 83.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I remember we didn’t have wifi in our apartment for a couple days because of a storm I believe. So I had no way of communicating and I felt helpless. That’s when I knew being overseas was different.

You began your NCAA career at Presbyterian College (NCAA) from 2011-2013 playing total of 54 games. What memories do you have from this time and why did you leave after two seasons?

My first years of college were like my experiences in Europe. I believe that is what allowed me to handle my transition to Europe the way I did. It was a great experience. I learned a lot about myself and the game. Made some lifelong friends that I still have a great relationship with till this day. Ultimately, I transferred at the time because I believe our values didn’t match.

In your second NCAA game as a freshman you lost by 41 points to Duke scoring 9 points. What memories do you have playing against guys like Seth Curry, Austin Rivers, Quinn Cook and the Plumlee brothers.

That was a fun experience. Playing against your childhood dream school and getting to play against some of the top players in the country is what you dream of. Playing at Cameron indoor was one the craziest atmospheres I ever played in.

You then finished school at Miami University (NCAA) from 2014-2016 averaging 14.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 5.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 79.5% and as a senior averaged 13.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 79.9%. How do you feel did your game grow in these two years?

I believe going to Miami is what set me up to be a pro. My body caught up with me. We had great resources at Miami to help me become the player I am today. If I didn’t make the move to Miami (oh) then there is a good chance I’m not a pro.

As a senior you played two crazy games against Ball St. In the first game you lost 48-46 scoring 26 points and in the second game netted 15 points winning 49-47. How seldom is it seeing two games under 50 points twice in the same season against the same team?

I remember it being a tough overall game. On the defensive end and the offensive end. We ended up splitting, but we won when it mattered.

How did head coach John Copper groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coop was like a lot of my coaches in Europe. Holding you accountable when you weren’t being the best you. I appreciated him and the way he coached me because I had no room to relax. In the moment it may be difficult to deal with a coach who is always on you but it’s what I needed. Cause I probably wouldn’t be a professional if I relaxed in college.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Geovonie McKnight

Haha. I don’t know. He knew to stay far away when it came to the 1v1.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Will Sullivan, Buck Johnson, Akos Garamvolgyi, Bartos Balint, Cheik Sane

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Spud Webb

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

Michael Jordan

Did you see the sequel to the classic movie Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I haven’t seen it, sorry lol. If the sequel is trash then yes they should have left it alone.

Thanks Eric for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-1994, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball.

What was it like having a free weekend after the big win over Ehingen? Did that give you time to rest or were you grinding in the gym like usual?

It Felt good to catch up on some rest & decompress a little. I did some working out but wasn’t over exerting myself. So in all it felt good.

PS Karlsruhe shell shocked Ehingen 114-65. When you see a 0-21 team do you feel a little for their misfortune or does one as a competitor block that out?

In Ehingen’s case they are a competitive bunch so if teams approach them with the wrong mindset they can get beat. So for us, we didn’t take them lightly and wanted to come out and get the win.

Talk a little about the game . How quickly did you realize that this would be an easy win? Can one talk about it being a cake walk or were there tough phases throughout the contest?

Well we didn’t pull away until the second half so I wouldn’t consider it an easy win. For our group, no team is a cake walk in this league so we have to continue to find ways we can be better and build.

On the offensive end PS Karlsruhe played fine inside out basketball hitting well from close and far. Was this game a further good tune up to prepare for tougher games coming up?

We just wanted to come out and play a good brand of basketball on both sides of the ball. Good thing shots fell for us and we were able to execute on both sides of the ball.

Nobody played more than 22 minutes. How vital was it being able to split minutes like this considering their have been other games where guys were playing heavy minutes?

With a big lead that we were able to gain & sustain, it was good to see some of our younger guys in there racking up some minutes, making plays and playing well.

What was your impression of Tyler Cheese? How difficult must it be for a competitor like him having to endure constant losing? –

He’s a good player and I can see he’s doing the best he can to try and lead his team. Respect for that.

Does one notice that it is difficult to compete in the German Pro A when you don’t have more imports?

This a tough league, we have some high level teams & players in this league. It’s tough to win in this league and I’m sure all teams involved understand that.

You had a quiet night with only 10 points. Can you remember taking so little shots this season? I guess on this night you didn’t have to.

Pretty quiet night for me, had some solid looks I missed on. This game didn’t require much scoring from me. I believe everyone who played scored for our team.

Now the team has a tough stretch and one that could decide the season between a playoff berth and not. PS Karlsruhe now play 4 of 5 games on the road. How excited are you for this stretch to show that you can lead the team to new heights?

I’m excited for this stretch, it’ll be a tough one but we’ll do our work accordingly and take it day by day.

What was your take on the James Harden trade. This guy has a lot of haters. Is his ego above what is better for the team?

I think both teams got better in the trade, I was tweeting about the trade scenario hours before it took place. I can’t really speak on James’s ego, I just know he’s a helluva basketball player. Excited to see both teams new looks.

Please explain how your Super Bowl night will be like and who will take the win?

Just going to sit back & watch the game. I’m just hoping for an exciting game. May the best team win.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Back in 2012 the basketball world was a lot different than it is today. Dirk Nowitzki was in his prime, Dennis Schroeder was a big talent, but still some years away from the NBA, Lebron James was making new headlines winning titles with the Miami Heat and Luka Doncic was 13 and would sign a 5 year contract with Real Madrid in September of that year. In Frankfurt an era with the Fraport Skyliners had come to an end in 2011 as the first real Skyliner identity figure Pascal Roller (180-G-1976) had retired. His most important numbers as a professional players were staggering as he played 406 BBL games amassing 4,021 points, won the BBL cup in 2000 and German championship in 2004, reached the BBL final in 2005 and 2010 and strapped on the German national jersey 122 times winning the silver medal at the 2005 European Championships and Bronze medal at the 2002 World Championships. In January 2012 he brought together some of his old teammates and faced off against the 2011-2012 Fraport Skyliners losing 85-80 in Basketball City Mainhatten. You know time has flown by when guys like Jimmy Mckinney, Jermario Davidson and rookie Michael Thompson were on the team. Oh and by the way the next Skyliner identity figure Quantez Robertson was still a young buck only in his third professional season. Who would have thought then that Quantez Robertson would still be on the team today now in his 13th season having taken over the reigns from Roller being a Skyliner lifer. The German legend may only have played two years with Tez as he is known by the German basketball community, but he remembers the first weeks in 2009 as if it was yesterday. ‘Tez was very reserved when he came and was very modest. I remember that he observed a lot. I remember the question was what role he would have. Quickly he became that defensive stopper that would get his points with steals and back door cuts. There were no plays designed for him at the beginning. He always let the situation come to him. I didn’t know how long he would stay, but his longevity speaks for him. He must of noticed that the Skyliners was the right place for him. He gave back with consistency in his career’, stressed Pascal Roller. Time definitely has flown quicker for him since he retired than say the years 2001-2011. ‘I think that the years 11-21 have gone by quicker. I had a normal route as a professional player, but since I have been retired many different things have happened. My kids are getting bigger and I have had a job now for 5 years. The last 10 years have really flown by’, said Pascal Roller. It is really hard to believe that Pascal Roller has been retired already more than 10 years.

Let’s fast forward to 2022. I spoke twice to Pascal Roller as his busy schedule interrupted our first chat. It was nice talking to Pascal again. Our paths haven’t crossed too much since he retired. I saw him by chance in down town Frankfurt a few years after he retired and interviewed him at half-time of the Hamburg Towers first organization win in Giessen in 2014 and at the2015 BBL cup weekend in Oldenburg. As a player I had many more dealings with him as interviews were a normal occurrence. I also remember our first meeting in the BCM in pre season in 2004 when Murat Didin was head coach. The world has been struck by COVID which has affected everyone in some way. Even if Pascal Roller isn’t dropping his lethal three pointer on transition on the court anymore, he is still involved with basketball as you can witness his expertise at Magenta Sport during Live basketball telecasts. When he isn’t sporting his million dollar smile on camera, then he is living a normal life in Hamburg working for a business consulting firm. Working life was a big adjustment for all and it wasn’t any different for him. He was bombarded with even more work since the Pandemic hit and was confined to home office. Everybody had their unique experiences with COVID and some more difficult than others, but all in all everybody has gotten positive things out of it. ‘It gave me more time to look at my life. Even if I still had a tight plan, I tried to concentrate on other things that I usually wouldn’t have done’, warned Pascal Roller. He has had a normal day job since retiring with the Fraport Skyliners and at times looks back to his playing days and understands that being an ex player now, his life is a lot different to when he was a player. ‘It was comfortable being a professional player. All you had to do was concentrate on the game. The club took care of many things for you. I liked that. As a professional you were always active. I miss that. Now away from the game, it is more difficult to do exercise. I just don’t have the time. I can’t just take an hour and a half and go for a bike ride’, reflected Pascal Roller. He watches a lot of basketball today and has seen a lot change with the game to when he played. It would be interesting to see how the ex Skyliner captain would come to terms with the heightened athleticism of today’s game. ‘The game is more athletic now. When I played athleticism was just a trend. Many teams live off the pressure defense, but not necessarily with smart play. Many guys in my era weren’t as fast as guys today, but they had intellect on the court and understood the game well. Alba Berlin played very attractive basketball last season. They have players that can read the situation well. You didn’t have that kind of play in my era. You will see more teams like this where coaches allow the players to make their own decisions’, warned Pascal Roller.

Not only was being a professional player for the Fraport skyliners and winning two of their club three titles was a massive achievement, but also his time with the German national team where he was for many years Germany’s top point guard together with Steffen Hamann. When he was a national player, he was blessed to have had legend Dirk Nowitzki as a teammate. The offense revolved around the Dallas Maverick while today the talent level that the team has is incredible. One has to wonder how more successful Germany could have been at other events had other players been able to come out of the shadow of Nowitzki? ‘We had a great player with Dirk. Everything evolved around him. I harmonized well with him on the pick and roll. We understood each other well knowing when it was my shot and when it was his shot. We needed him and he needed us. That was how we felt. Some look back at the Euro championships 2015 and wonder why Dirk didn’t have the ball at the end instead of Dennis Schroeder. Not everyone can fill out that role. In 2005 it worked well for Dirk. In 2005 it was clear who had the ball at the end while in 2015 it wasn’t so clear. It seems to me There was no harmony in the team in 2015. I thought that team got slower in the game. They wanted to involve the bigs more instead of playing quick’, remembered Pascal Roller. Today Roller follows the German national team off the court and especially last summer, there was much drama concerning Joshiko Saibou and the success of Germany reaching the Olympics. ‘You can see the Saibou affair on many levels. He had some good games at the Super Cup. He didn’t have so much rhythm at the Olympics, but he still deserved to be there with his effort on the court. He was able to find a role on the team. On the other hand I think that the German basketball federation didn’t see the whole Saibou situation as critical as the basketball community did. I think that one still has to see it as critical to what he said about certain issues. The virus has shown us how aggressive it can be. He positioned himself with his opinion and the federation handled it bad. Saibou and the federation put themselves in a bad position from the start. I could of understood if he hadn’t been invited. Winning the qualification was a big success. We hadn’t been to the Olympics since 2008. 7 of the 12 teams at the Olympics were from Europe. We proved that we can play in a system where we play quick and played good defense showed how attractive we can play. We have the potential for more success in the future. The World Championships 2019 wasn’t great. A mistake was setting the goal to win a medal to the media. They should have kept that goal behind closed doors. Now I see the team having success in the next 2-3 years with a new coach and new ambition to win’, commented Pascal Roller. The German was in good spirits when I mentioned his ex coach Gordon Herbert who had been named German national team . ‘Henrik Roedl did a very good job. I don’t think the German federation did good communication with letting him go. Gordon Herbert was a very good choice. He knows German basketball, and has a good network. He will give a full commitment. I like how Gordy prepares and how he uses the strengths of players. He wants to see good basketball. It will be exciting to see what kind of a team he can form in a short time. I think he can do it’, stressed Pascal Roller. In the last years one would have thought that Germany could have done more damage with all the talent they had, but that wasn’t the case. One has too wonder if Germany has a luxury problem of having to many skilled players? ‘It seems like a comfortable situation and it’s nice to see that youth programs and the implementation of the NBBL have paid off. But you’ll never know who might be able to play because of club, contract or injury situation so it’s perfectly fine that there are more players being able to be on the team than spots available on a roster’, stated Pascal Roller. One player that I have enjoyed for years has been diminutive guard Bennet Hundt. Short players always seem to get a bad rap, but this kid is as tough as nails and could really be a good solution down the line as a vital player in the rotation. ‘He is a very interesting player. He is probably very annoying to play on offense and defense. I think that he could be a interesting fit as a different type of point guard to give impulses behind Schroeder, Bonga and Lo’, added Pascal Roller.

He played 11 years for the Frankfurt Skyliners and in this time played with so many gifted players. It is always enjoyable to shoot the breeze with him about his old teammates. There are so many guys you could mention. But he didn’t only have incredible teammates, but also coaches, of course a lot fewer than teammates. He played for coaches like Stefan Koch, Gordon Herbert, Murat Didin and Dirk Bauermann just to name a few, but many probably won’t remember his Italy season where he played for Angelico Biella (Italy-Serie A) and then less known Luca Bechi. I’m sure he hasn’t been asked too often in his life about his memories with him. ‘I have good memories of Luca Bechi. He always had a good spirit and was a player’s coach. He helped me a lot then get used to the new situation. He played run and gun and played young talents. Back then Daniele Baiesi was there and was able to get good players for little money’, remembered Pascal Roller. He gets asked a lot about the other two members of the lethal Bermuda triangle Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis, but one guy who gets a little lost in the discussion is Robert Garret, a player who was so instrumental in the team’s only BBL title back in 2004. ‘I have many nice memories with Robert. One that really stands out was when we were very young. We were maybe 17 or 18 years old and were playing in a tournament in Paris. Demond Greene, Dirk Nowitzki, Robert Maras, Robert Garrett and I were there. I got to know him well there. It is funny to look back and then remember that 5 years later we were all reunited again in the German national team’, said Pascal Roller. Another teammate of him was Mario Kasun. Only a few years after helping the team win the 2004 title, he would be banging under the hoop in the NBA with the Orlando Magic. ‘Mario was a very special player. Back then you didn’t see players of his size and physicality that also had a good shot. He was very easy going on the court. I didn’t know if he would go to the NBA then, but I knew that he wouldn’t be in Germany long with the way he dominated the game’, expressed Pascal Roller. Another player he saw mature in Frankfurt was Alex King. He saw King as a boy and later observed how he developed into a good man and great player that would win titles and become a national team player. ‘Frankfurt wasn’t easy for Alex. He was thrown into cold water. He began in Frankfurt when he was 15 or 16. He didn’t have an easy time with coach Murat Didin. He expected everyone who was there to be a full professional. It wasn’t an easy time for him, but it helped him a lot. Plus the whole environment with the Skyliners was very good for him. He made a great development from his time in Frankfurt until now. I remember in Frankfurt he couldn’t hit a three and then a few years later he achieved a Eurocup record with Wurzburg hitting 7/7 three’s. It was nice to see what work ethic and experience can do to a player like him’, remembered Pascal Roller. He played with so many players, but I can bet if you asked him who one of his 5 best teammates of all-time was, he would mention Derrick Allen. The guy was so fit and looked like he already ran a marathon in warmups before a game. It was only a shame that basketball Germany couldn’t see if Rasta Vechta would be the fittest team in the Pro A, because Derrick Allen was let go as head coach. ‘I think it could be a big challenge for his team if he has them all try to be as fit as he was. His work ethic was unbelievable. It was something that I seldom had seen. Back then the coaches that he had understood that Derrick had a plan to be the best he could. I am sure that he will go his way as a head coach’, expressed Pascal Roller before Allen had been let go. In his last season as a pro, the German had to take a back seat to Dashaun Wood who won the 2011 BBL MVP award. Wood was one of the best 1-1 players that Roller had ever seen. Was he born 10 years too early and be in the NBA today? ‘I remember before he arrived hearing how quick he was. It is hard to say if he would be in the NBA. He wasn’t 190cm then. Maybe if he had had a coach then that was looking for a player like him, he could have had a chance. Now you have very unusual players like a Russell Westbrook. You hardly see players like Muggsy Bogues or Isaiah Thomas anymore.

One of my favorite last questions in my basketball interviews in the last year was where players see a Chris Paul in the list of the best point guards of all-time despite not having won an NBA title yet. Most have him in the top 10 while very few have him in the top three. Of course I had to ask Pascal where he saw the current Phoenix Sun with the best of all-time. ‘I am a big Chris Paul critic. I am aware that his Stats are always very good and that he’s a 10 time AllStar. You can’t say anything against that. Sometimes I am just irritated by his behavior on the court which seems to me he’s more concerned about his game than his teams play. When I watch him play, he always looks so involved with his own game. Last season was the first time where it was different. He totally came through as a team leader on the court. It will be interesting to see what happens this season with the Suns- now he has shown to me that there is a new dimension to his game. But it wasn’t or maybe isn’t even easy to convince me’, stated Pascal Roller. When making an all-time Frankfurt Skyliner starting 5, I can bet most fans would have a Pascal Roller in the list. Of course my personal all-time starting five would include Pascal Roller, plus a few more great players with Dashaun Wood, Chris Williams, Danilo Barthel, Johannes Voigtmann and Tyrone Ellis as honorable mention. It is only fitting that Pascal remained very neutral and showed immense courtesy and respect to every single player he has been able to call a teammate. ‘You forgot Tez. It is difficult for me to make an all-time starting five. I played with so many great players. It has been cool to see how Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann have developed and made the next step. Isaac Bonga also was in Frankfurt. When I look back at my career, I remember being on so many different teams with Frankfurt that had many different players. Each team was special. Some teams worked while others didn’t. Guys like Jukka Matinen and Bernd Kruel were very important in their special ways with their personality and their spirit. Kai Nurnberger was another great player that I was able to play with’, stressed Pascal Roller. I apologize Tez. Of course if I had two starting fives, you would make the list. Pascal Roller will always be remembered as that ultimate team player that knew how to run a team to success as well as being able to hit that big shot which is why I called him Mr reliable back in the day during my radio play by play telecasts. With all the big shots that he ever sunk or didn’t sunk, which was the most memorable for him? It wasn’t one, but actually 3. ‘I had two nice ones and one not so nice. The first was game 5 against Bamberg in the 2004 final. I hit a big shot over Stefan Hamann. Robert Garrett and I made the last 15 points in route to the win. The second was a type of exhibition game in the Westfallen arena in Dortmund where I was 18 years old. I had the great opportunity to play NBA player Reggie Miller in a three point game. I went something like 9/20. Miller was even worse than I was. I remember being very hyped up to play him. The last was missing the free throw at the end in game 5 in Bamberg in 2010 that would have tied the game. That was in my mind for a long time after. I always thought what could have been had it gone in’, remembered Pascal Roller. I was in Bamberg in 2010 when he missed that shot. I also saw him make those shots in game 5 of the 2004 finals against Bamberg. But I did miss his epic three point shooting contest against legend Reggie Miller. Is there a tape of that contest Pascal?

John Murry (192-G-1995, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

Grevenbrocih suffered the next loss 80-75 to Recklinghausen. Again you played with a short roster of 7 man. How annoying is it to keep having such a depleted roster.

It’s a tough battle to handle to say the least, it’s shows in the end table that with a complete roster, there is a completely different outcome. With that being said we fight until the end that’s all we can control at this point, and I feel we did that last night we just came up short.

How tough was it being swept by Recklinghausen? The first game was a tight loss. They seemed to have your number this season.

What’s crazy is we lost to them by 5 both games so that really doesn’t sit well with me at all, TO’s played a key in crucial moments for us in last game and it cost us in the end.

The game wasn’t a shoot out and you gave up only 80 points. Talk a little about the 40 minutes. When did the game get away from you?

The game never really got away from us, we just couldn’t get over the hump.

Do you believe you would have won the game had you personally hit your three more consistently?

There is no doubt about that, that will definitely be handled on my end.

Recklinghausen played 9 guys, but mostly with 6 guys. What club do you believe was more tired in crunch-time?

Both clubs were very tired at the end, it was a hard fought battle that night, I loved the intensity on both ends.

One trend that remained form the first game was that you as a team controlled the boards, but they once again took care of the ball a lot better than you. Was the Grevenbroich defense not aggressive enough in certain phases?

I wouldn’t say it was that, turnovers just came back and bit us in the butt, we lose to many offensive possessions to turnovers during the game.

You don’t have much time to regroup before the next game on Friday against BG Hagen. Will you be able to wipe your mouth and forget your bad three point shooting evening?

Shooters shoot. I’ve put the work in and will make sure that type doesn’t happen again

You next play BG Hagen. Another must win. Dorsten has one win more than you. You won the first game by 5 points. What will be key in getting the win?

Taking care of the ball on offense, we are a tough team to beat when we are not turning the ball over.

How did you see the Harden trade? Can Brooklyn win the NBA title this season?

With all the health and safety protocols it’s hard to say.

Thanks John for the chat.

Sacar Anim (196-G/F-1997, college: Marquette) s a 24 year old 196cm forward playing his second professional season and first with medi Bayreuth. He played his rookie season with Agua Caliente Clippers of Ontario (NBA G League). He began his basketball career with De La Salle High School. He played at Marquette (NCAA) from 2015-2020 playing a total of 114 NCAA games. In his senior year he averaged 13.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 67.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 111-95 win over the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Congrats Scar on the big 111-95 win on the road against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. After a 5 game losing streak, medi Bayreuth is playing better basketball now having won three of the last four games. What is the team doing better now than during the losing streak?

I think that we are playing more together and at more of a high level now. We are also moving the ball well and just fighting through adversary a lot better. When teams are going on runs, we are able to fight through it a lot better. I think that our home court also has ben an advantage especially with the fans back in the arena’s.

Was it easier going in or more difficult not having played them yet and knowing they had undergone a coaching change?

I think it was more difficult to play against them. They have been playing better as of late and have their things together. It wasn’t easy to prepare, but we watched film on them. We knew coming in that they don’t run many plays, but just play a fast paced style.

How much did scouting play a role in this game. The EWE Baskets Oldenburg play a new style of run and gun. What did medi Bayreuth want to pay attention most coming in?

We wanted to control the pace as much as possible, but then again not slow it down as much, because we also like to play fast paced. We wanted to limit them to one shot and try to get out on transition as much as possible. We did good job doing that finding the open man.

Guys like Heidegger and Michalak really profit under the new system of Ingo Freyer. Did medi Bayreuth just let them go more and focus on the rest more?

Not necessarily. They are two great scorers, but everyone on that team can score. We did focus a little more on them, because we didn’t want them to get too hot. We focused on containing them as much as possible.

The first quarter was a shootout as you led 30-27, but in the second quarter you allowed only 17 points. What adjustments did you make on the defensive end?

We contained the high pick and roll well and not overhelp as much leaving the shooters open. We also did a good job getting back on transition defense.

In the third quarter BBL identity figure Rickey Paulding nailed two three’s in a row. You were 7 years old when he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons and were 10 years old when he came to the EWE Baskets and is still here now. What kind of an experience was it playing against him in his last season?

Oh wow I didn’t know that. It was a great experience playing against him. We talked a bit during the game. I didn’t know him personally. It’s incredible how he can still make plays at that age. It is really nice to be able to cherish the moment playing against him. It is a real honor to play against a great player like that.

After the Paulding baskets, Martynas Sajus made big plays and baskets. How vital a part of the team has he been?

He has been a big part of our success. He has proven to be an inside force this season and can make plays and finish at a high level at both ends of the court.

Medi Bayreuth broke away in the third quarter. How much fun was it beating Oldenburg with their own game?

It was a lot fun. Coach told us at the start of the game, that if we played the right way then there would be a lot possessions and we could score a lot. If we could execute a lot then it would be a lot of fun. It is good going into the break now with this momentum.

How important was game management and always having an answer when they had a blow?

Game management was very important. Coach made adjustments all game long. Cam Wells and Basti Doreth did a great job controlling the game. We didn’t stay passive when they scored. We remained aggressive and kept our foot on the pedal and kept the lead.

How refreshing was it seeing Janari Joessar explode for 24 points. He had scored 22 points in a cup game at the start of the season, but in between been injured and been up and own?

His output was huge. This game was good for him to build his confidence. We know what he is capable of doing and he stepped up big giving us a big boost. Different guys have been stepping up all season long even when we had Covid issues and injuries. When he is making shots, he gives us a totally different dynamic.

You won’t be winning the Fiba Europe Cup. How hungry is the team to finish the season strong? The playoff race is very tight.

We are extremely hungry. We have always felt that we have the right pieces and talent to be a playoff team. We have had so much adversary this season, that we were fortunate to always have different guys stepping up all season long. We feel like we will be playing our best basketball now.

After a tough rookie season in the G-League with Ontario, your having an incredible first season overseas. Did you feel pressure coming to one of the best leagues in Europe? I mean a bad second season could have had an impact on your future.

I didn’t feel any pressure coming to Germany this season. I know what I’m capable of doing on the court. My rookie season in the G-League was unfortunate. It just wasn’t the right fit. I was happy to make the change and come overseas. I’m very thankful to have landed in such a good league like the BBL. I’m really happy that I have been able to make an impact in the BBL

What has been your secret to being able to play so well? You needed little adjustment time.

I just play my game. I know what I can do on the court. I worked very hard in the off season. Some friends that have played in the BBL told me how it is. I don’t think that it is really much different than college. The only difference is that the players are better at the pro ranks. I see great players 1-15 every night.

How beneficial have Marcus Thornton and Terry Allen been for your adjustment period in your first season overseas? How has each guy helped you best on the court?

They have been great and helped me so much. These are two high level guys that have been around for a while. They have made the transition so much smoother for me. Not only on the court have they helped me, but also off the court. It can be very tough off the court especially when your away from family. On the court Marcus has helped me so much. Marcus is one of the best scorers in the BBL. I try to pick up as much as possible like how to create space and seeing how he uses quickness and just his shooting ability. Terry has helped me so much with little situations on defense and offense with picking my spots and when to be aggressive and when not.

You really have picked up your game right before Christmas and since scored in double figures in 11 straight games. Did your game profit from the many injuries in the last months?

Yes I would say that that has been a part of it. I have gotten a bigger role on offense. Injuries forced many guys to step up and I just happened to be one of those guys. I have a role now to have to do more. I have always been confident of my abilities and just try to help the team as much as possible.

At Marquette (NCAA) you improved your game step by step each season. What are your goals in the next few years concerning your game. In what areas do you want to make the most growth?

I want to do the same that I did in college and just improve step by step. I want to sharpen up my shooting and playmaking and make my body stronger. I won’t always be this athletic so I have to work on my body and make it stronger. I also want to be a student of the game knowing when to pick my spots. I will really lock in this summer.

How tough was your rookie season in the G-League with Aqua Caliente? You did finish the season well off in your last two games. How true is the cliche that there are many guys that are just there to fill the roster. Did you feel like you were one of those guys?

It was tough especially coming off a good senior year at Marquette. I didn’t really know what to expect, but then again I did. Everybody wants to get to the NBA and the G-League offers you the chance. It was really tough not playing much. That can be true that there are guys in the G-League just filling the roster and sitting.

What was the hardest lesson that you learned in the G-League?

There are some things that you can’t control. My biggest lesson was keeping a level head and always being ready. It was frustrating where there were games where I didn’t play, but I learned you have to always be there for the team and be ready when your called.

Who won a one on one in practice at Marquette (NCAA) you or Sam Hauser?

I won that for sure.

What was your take on the James Harden deal to the 76ers. Are the Brooklyn Nets stronger now?

Brooklyn won that trade. They got good pieces with Curry and Drummond.

Did you see the sequel to the classic coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

They should of left it alone. Sometimes it’s not good to have a sequel. They waited to long for this one.

Thanks Sacar for the chat.

The suffering of the Fraport Skyliners continue as ever since they had that massive COVID fall out in January, winning again has been as far away as 50 Cent losing 100 pounds. Since the 2000 BBL cup winners last win on January 2^nd, they have endured a brutal four game losing streak. It is a fact now that when they are without starting point guard Will Cherry, they are a severe lost case. After a tough mid week loss to the EWE Baskets Oldenburg where they witnessed a 110-103 shoot out game, they then had to deal with top team FC Bayern Munich and defended better allowing 72 points, but couldn´t muster any proper offense scoring only 53 points. It didn´t get any easier for them as 48 hours later they had a date with BBL champion Alba Berlin who had had a tough January losing five games in a row, but as of late had found rhythm again and were sporting  a three game BBL win streak having last creamed the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t have much time to recuperate from the Munich loss, but had some fortune as they met a lack luster Alba Berlin team that looked for the most part as if they were in semi-hibernation, but they were still good enough for the Fraport Skyliners as they allowed only 2 points in the fourth quarter pulling out the 72-56 win. “We got careless with the ball. Frankfurt did a good job in the second half denying our entries. We shot the ball well in the first half, but in the second half we struggled. Our legs were tired”, stressed Alba Berlin guard Jaleen Smith. The Fraport Skyliners were in the game for three quarters, but couldn´t take the momentum of the third quarter and be competitive in the fourth quarter. “I thought we took good care of the ball and we forced them to 22 turnovers. I thought we did a good job on the defensive boards. But at the end we had some back to back turnovers and they took advantage of it. We couldn´t control the pace and didn´t take good shots in the fourth quarter”, stated Quantez Robertson.

                The Fraport Skyliners were without ex NBA player Will Cherry who had back problems. Alba Berlin didn´t take Frankfurt easy at the get go going on a rapid 8-2 lead. They got behind the three point line and got baskets from Maodo Lo and Luke Sikma and 2021 BBL MVP Jaleen Smith dropped free throws. But the Fraport Skyliners didn´t stay in a hole early, but were carried well by ex FC Barcelona 2 guard Brancou Badio who was aggressive and scored 5 points. German national player Lukas Wank contributed a trey to tie the game at 8-8. But Alba Berlin had the smoother game and hit Frankfurt with a 11-4 run to led 19-12. In the run the defending BBL champion got their transition game going with buckets from Jaleen Smith and ex Stanford(NCAA) forward Oscar Da Silva. Alba Berlin also got valuable minutes from 221cm big man Christ Koumadje who got to the free throw line twice and converted a thunderous dunk. Alba Berlin got many easy baskets while Frankfurt weren´t given anything easy. Alba Berlin kept up the pressure down the stretch having the 24-16 advantage after 10 minutes getting five points from German Tim Schneider while Frankfurt got points in the paint from Badio and Mclean. Alba Berlin had 6 turnovers which is very uncommon as they kept attempting lob passes that didn´t arrive and led to turnovers. “We usually make those passes. Frankfurt scouted us well and got deflections”, stressed Jaleen Smith.  Alba Berlin shot their usual high percentages from two point with 70% and from outside 50% and had the rebound edge.

                In the second quarter Alba Berlin were able to manage their comfortable lead and lead by as much as 13 points, but were never able to completely shake Frankfurt. Alba Berlin continued to show their smooth flowing offense getting a trey from Tamar Blatt, two handed dunk from Da Silva and lay in from Smith while Mclean had 4 points and Badio a trey, but Alba Berlin led 31-23.  Frankfurt´s offense was working pretty well, but they couldn´t make any ground mainly because they couldn´t shake Alba Berlin´s clock work offense. Even when Alba Berlin coughed up balls, Frankfurt still couldn´t make ground. German fine role player Malte Delow added good support getting a lay in and a trey while Frankfurt received  a runner from rookie Matt Haarms and a 20 footer from Felix Hecker who continues to make the best of his opportunity and minutes, but Frankfurt still trailed 37-26. Alba Berlin definitely weren´t playing their best basketball, but it was still enough to have a double figure lead. Down the stretch, Frankfurt got a trey from Quantez Robertson who had  a poor  shooting night after being up most of the last night as he became a father for the third time. Alba Berlin got a pull up jumper from Jaleen Smith a trey from the corner from German national player Jonas Mattisseck as Alba Berlin led 42-31 at the break. “They executed well being able to keep the lead. We also didn´t do a good job getting back on transition defense”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin continued to shoot the ball well with 60% from the two point range and 40% from outside and had the 23-16 rebound edge, but had 9 turnovers.

                The Fraport Skyliners experienced their best basketball in the third quarter outscoring Alba Berlin 23-16 and cutting their lead down to 58-54. Alba Berlin continued to execute pretty well early getting baskets from Delow and Smith, but Frankfurt stayed with them getting their inside game going as Matt Haarms scored and also got more aggressive on the offensive boards and trailed 48-37. But the Fraport Skyliners didn´t let down, but actually stepped up their game going on a 9-2 run to cut down Alba Berlin´s lead to 50-46. As usual it was Badio leading the charge as he continued to have the hot hand scoring 5 points. Forward Brooks DeBisshop made a dunk and as did Jamel Mclean. Alba Berlin continued to let Frankfurt hang around and had no luck with their lob passes that Frankfurt had figured out. Alba Berlin has such a deep bench and have numerous guys that can go off and Jonas Mattissek continued to be hot hitting two three´s as Alba Berlin tried to get away again leading 56-48. But the Fraport Skyliners still had energy and upped their intensity closing out the third quarter with a 6-2 run to trail only 58-54. In the run, Frankfurt got solid support from Mclean making free throws, Len Schoorman made a steal and coast to coast sprint for two points and Badio made a runner at the buzzer. “We turned over the ball too much. Badio is a good young player that read our defense well and found the sweet spot. We didn´t pressure him as much”, added Jaleen Smith. “We didn´t make any real adjustments. We came out aggressive and got back into the game. We exerted a lot of energy to get good open looks. We did a good job holding them to one shot and controlling the rebound”, warned Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin continued to shot better than Frankfurt over 40% and had the 29-26 rebound edge, but had an unacceptable 17 turnovers.

                The Fraport Skyliners were unable to take their momentum of the third quarter into the fourth quarter and instead took an extreme 180 degrees turn scoring only a pathetic 2 points the whole quarter and allowing Alba Berlin to walk into the sunset with the win. The Fraport Skyliners actually began well getting DeBisschop involved throwing up a lob pass that he converted into an easy basket as Frankfurt trailed only 58-56. It was hard to believe that they would never score again after this. What happened after this must have been a bad dream and one that head coach Diego Ocampo surely might have some sleepless nights. For the next 5-6 minutes Alba Berlin would score only 5 points as Blatt nailed a trey and Koumadje made a tip in dunk for the 63-56 advantage. Frankfurt got chance after chance to execute on offense, but couldn´t. You could notice that that third quarter of high energy took a toll on them. Their offense was slower and their shots were untypically bad off the mark. They were unable to hit the ocean. Luke Sikma made a lay in at the 2,30 minute mark as Alba Berlin led 65-56. Mattisseck then made a trey which led to a Delow three  and then it was game over as Alba Berlin led 68-56. Alba Berlin then took advantage of Frankfurt´s five team fouls and got free throws from Koumadje, Mattisseck and Jonas Thiemann. “Frankfurt´s shot were flat and short. Fatigue got to them. We stepped up our defense to get stops”, said Jaleen Smith. “Not being able to get points as a team hurt us mentally. When we couldn´t get stops, our confidence went down”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Alba Berlin was led by Jaleen Smith and Malte Delow with 11 points  apiece while Christ Koumadje and Jonas Mattisseck added 10 points  apiece. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Brancou Badio and Jamel Mclean with 17 points a piece. Alba Berlin shot 40% from the field and 37% from outside and had 46 rebounds and 22 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 34% from the field and 19% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 17 turnovers.

Jaleen Smith (193-PG-94, college: UNH) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Freeport, Texas that is playing his fifth professional season and first with Alba Berlin. He played the last two seasons with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg averaging 15.2ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (1.8spg), FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 87.5%; and 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 82,8% the season before. In 2018-2019 he played with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) averaging 12,7ppg, 3,9rpg and 2,7apg. In his rookie season with New Hampshire (NCAA) from 2013-2017 where he played a total of 120 NCAA games. He improved his scoring, rebounding and assists average each season and as a senior he played 32 games averaging 15.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 78.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.,com before the BBL game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks Jaleen for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first Euroleague season. How crazy has it been for you personally with Covid and all the postponements etc. Is there one trip you won’t forget so quickly?

I won’t forget our Belgrade trip. The city, the fans, just everything about the trip was really cool. I loved it out there.

Alba Berlin had a tough January in Euroleague but have won two of the last three games. It seems like you really have picked up the game on the defensive end. What has been
key in the last games besides against CSKA that you have been able to play top defense?

We just tried to be more physical on both ends of the floor. With us being more physical, we can see teams struggle sometimes against it.

How much do you get up playing against guys like NBA champion Jordan Loyd? What gets you most pumped playing against guys like that?

I love those games going against ex-NBA guys. You always want to try and match your skills up with theirs.

A couple weeks ago you played against OJ Mayo. You weren’t even in high school yet when he was making a name for himself in the NBA. What was it like playing against an aging player like that? Are you the type of guy to take the opportunity to do some small talk with him before or after the game?

No because its surreal to even be on the same court as him. I just watch how be plays and try to learn little bit from his game.

In the win over Monaco you played solid having 10 points in 12 minutes while ex NBA player Mike James netted 25 points for the losers. What does a Jaleen Smith still have to do to reach his level?

I have to put in a lot of work for the next couple of off-season to match his level. Mike is a seasoned veteran in the league too so a couple of years to get a feel for all the teams and coaches.

Alba Berlin is currently 8-18 in Euroleague. With what kind of an approach is the club going into the rest of the games? Does the club still believe they could accomplish something great with a run?

We just try and get better every game and just taking it one day at a time. We still looking towards the end goal and that is to win a championship in the German BBL.

Alba Berlin is only in sixth place at 12-5. How competitive is the easyCredit BBL this season. How dangerous is a team like ratiopharm Ulm? The 71-66 win was a tough piece of work this season.

ULM has been playing really well in EuroCup and in the BBL they are really fun to watch. The BBL is really competitive this season its actually really fun to look forward to every game because you have to be ready to play every night.

How have you seen the development of Maodo Lo? For two seasons you were opponents and now teammates. His quickness stands out, but what do you feel is off the radar on his game?

His defense is really underrated. He’s a great defender just as good as his offense is.

Welcome back to Frankfurt. Alba Berlin crushed Frankfurt in Berlin 101-63. But Frankfurt is a different team. They have added some new faces with Cherry and Mclean. What kind of game will w see this time?

They definitely will be playing a lot better this time around and they are going to have revenge on their mind when we play them. So we will have to be ready to play.

When Will Cherry was in the NBA, you were just starting at UNH. Lebron James gave the assist for his first NBA basket. How much of a challenge will it be facing his very aggressive defense?

Definitely ready for the challenge of a really good defender. Also I know he will probably guard the best perimeter guy on our team so I probaly won’t be me haha.

You will face Quantez Robertson again. With what kind of feelings are you going into the game that this could be his last game you play against him? He is 37 and a BBL identity figure. But don’t worry I think he will be back next season in the BBL.

Just treating him like it’s another game I think he’ll play until he’s 40 I believe. So it’s just going to be another basketball game for me.

You will face Rickey Paulding soon in Berlin. Is there anything you would like to ask him when you say farewell that game?

I have nothing at the moment actually

Next weekend you play against the Niners Chemnitz to reach the easyCredit BBL cup final. On paper Alba Berlin is the favorite, but not the big favorite or?

In our mind we will play our way and we know they are a very good team so we’re going to be ready.

Alba Berlin won the first game easily 82-63, but Chemnitz have stepped up their game as of late. Will the Alba three point party and the Chemnitz easy baskets inside be the main element to the game or could we expect some other surprises?

The game is going to be very physical for sure it’s the POKAL they are going to let us play all game. I think it’ll come down to whoever is the tougher team.

How much of a factor will it be just wearing out Chemnitz? It has been along season and there were times where Covid really depleted them roster wise.

Yeah when we played them I think they were missing a couple of players and they’ll be ready to play us this time around. They are a very prideful team and we’ll have to be ready for whatever they come at us with on Saturday.

How hungry are you win your first pro chip? How do you feel has your winning mentality grown since playing with Alba Berlin?

I can’t wait to win my first pro Championship it’s going to be a crazy moment and I won’t forget about it for the rest of my life. I have 3 years to complete the goal for sure a lot of chances.

You have been in and out of the starting lineup all season long. How much of an advantage is it for you to come off the bench? What main things do you watch the most during the game so you are best prepared when you come into the game.

Just seeing the tempo of the game from the bench is something I pay attention to. Also how my match up has been playing just to be ready to give extra energy out on the court.

You continue to work on being the most efficient player you can be. How tough has it been mentality having to play so many games on the fly with COVID?

I actually like it because it’s less practice time haha. More games to just figure stuff out and we’ve done a good job with it.

Your shooting under 40% from the two point range. What is the biggest challenge to correct this while having more limited shots with a deep roster like Alba Berlin. Is this shooting percentage more to do with bad shot selection?

Just taking better shots would help with the overall percentage for sure. I’ve been taking a lot of midrange pull-ups more this year than recent years and those are tough shots.

How has your defense game developed in a team like Alba Berlin that prides good defense? How have you become a better on ball defender?

Learning a different technique is definitely great to have here in ALBA. I’ve learned different techniques for one on one and pick roll defense it’s helped my growth a lot.

What is your take on the James Harden trade to the 76ers? Can Brooklyn mesh better now without a Harden?

Yeah im actually surprised he asked for a trade from Brooklyn I thought things were going great.

Will Cherry believes that Lebron James could score 80 points in the easyCredit BBL. What is your take on that?

If he would want to Lebron would average that but I think he’ll definitely average a triple double in our league for sure.

Who will win The 2022 Super Bowl Rams or Bengals?

The Bengals

Thanks Jaleen for the chat.

Rickey Paulding (196-SF-82, college: Missouri) is a 39 year old 196cm forward playing his 18th professional season and 15th season with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Prior to coming to Germany in 2007, he gained experience in Israel and France. The Detroit Michigan native who was drafted in 2004 by the Detroit Pistons played at Missouri (NCAA) for four years before turning professional. He spoke to eurobasket after the big 110-93 win over MBC.

Congrats on the massive 110-93 win over MBC. You have won three of the last four games. How good does it feel like winning again?

It is fun that were wining again. The main thing is that we are having fun and playing competitively to our abilities.

You had the 56-41 lead at the break. As a team you are scoring a lot more than before Ingo Freyer. Do you feel like the team confidence is growing each game?

I think key for us being so successful on the offensive end is that every guy has been put in the best position to use their strengths. It shows that all can be good.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg exploded for 36 points in the third quarter. What offensively was key in the third quarter for being able to really explode?

I think key was continuing to be in attack mode and sharing the ball well. We also were aggressive on defense allowing us to get easy baskets.

In the fourth quarter you were outscored 31-18. Did the team already have the win in their heads after three quarters?

It wasn’t easy for MBC coming into the game coming off COVID. We wee a bit disappointed that we didn’t execute as well. We knew that we would win. Sometimes having a big lead allows you to work on things which we did in the fourth quarter.

What was it like playing against John Bryant again? You had had many battles with him over the years. Is there one memory that you will always remember most about him?

I remember playing Ulm in a series that was a real battle. I don’t remember when it was, but we ended up winning. That was MVP John in that series. He is such a good and smart player. He is still an effective player today. I have a lot of respect for him.

AS a team you gave up 93 points despite forcing 21 rebounds. Ingo Freyer has never been known as a defensive specialist. I can remember players saying he never practiced defense in Hagen. What impulses did he give for this total change in playing defense? Can a team make steps on the defensive side under a Ingo Freyer?

We want to be very aggressive on defense and pick up full court and get in the passing lanes and get steals and easy baskets. Giving up 93 points really didn’t show how we really played on defense-. We let up a bit. In the future we have to find ways to finish better.

Before winning three of four games you had had a long 11 game losing streak. With 5 0r 6 of those as wins you would have been close to a playoff spot. This team was obviously better than their record showed. How big did the mental side play a role in the losing?

It was really tough losing so much. We lost confidence and began to question things. But the season is long and we hope that we can continue to head in the right direction.

Can you ever remember suffering a 11 game losing streak in school or as a pro?

No I can’t. This was the first time. It was a good learning experience.

What was your personal feeling of Ingo Freyer after the first practice? What has he given the team that it didn’t have before?

I had played against his teams and knew his style. You begin to understand his system and it is really one where all profit. I have a different role now. I come off the bench now and play around 20 minutes. I continue to be aggressive and take normal shots.

What was always your personal opinion of him when he was coaching Phoenix Hagen. He was a coach that loved the shoot out games.

I remember that you could never go to Hagen unprepared. Because if you weren’t ready they would run you out of the gym. You had to be prepared mentally and physically no matter where they were in the standings. I always admired his teams, because they always played hard and challenged you.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg could always put up points but now have an offensive minded coach. How are you better as an offensive team now?

We play fast paced and try to take as many shots and get all in involved.

Heidegger and Michalak are reborn under Ingo Freyer. Why are they functioning now better than before? What else is it besides freedom?

These two guys benefit a lot from the many shots we take. We play fast paced and that suits Max’s game as he constantly attacks the defense while Michal is a great shooter and we give him good open looks.

Phil Pressey also has been reborn. How has his game benefited now under Ingo Freyer? How has he profited most under Ingo Freyer?

I think that Ingo’s system fits everyone including Phil. We have a young and athletic team that can push the ball. Our defense sparks our offense allowing everyone to use their strengths.

How tough has this season been with all the losing? You had always had success with the EWE Baskets. Did you at times doubt yourself and what you were bringing to t6he table on a daily basis?

The season definitely has been a different one with the losing streak and being in last place. I just revaluate my game something I have always done. I ask myself am I giving 100% and if not, I go back into the gym and watch videos to get better and see how I can help my team. I never lose confidence, but just continue to play my game.

You didn’t have a great BCL campaign, but are playing solid in the easyCredit BBL. What is your main focus with your game in your last season?

I want to enjoy myself now. I’m not out there to set any new records or lead the league in scoring. I’m not putting any pressure on myself and just taking it game by game. I have had a great career and now just want to enjoy myself.

In your first season in Oldenburg in 2007 you were teammates with Jason Gardner. If you guys were teammates today for first time instead of 2007, how would your game be in today’s BBL?

I think that today’s BBl style fits Jason’s game. A point guard that knows how to run a team. I had such great times with him back then. We clicked and I remember many alley-oops. The game is faster now and more shots are taken. It was a fun time with him.

Super Bowl prediction Bengals-Rams?

I have to go with the Rams. But it is hard to count out the Bengals. The Bengals have a good quarter back, but I like the Rams offense and they have a tough defense.

Thanks Rickey for the chat.