Pete Strobl has been around the European basketball scene for 20 years having had a stellar professional basketball career and was an assistant coach for German easyCredit BBL team ratiopharm Ulm this season. He played at Niagara (NCAA) from 1997-2000 and then had a 9 year professional playing career that took him to countries like Germany, Austria, France, Ireland, Iceland and Switzerland. He founded The Scoring Factory in Pittsburgh and wrote a must read book called Backspin. He is a very interesting basketball mind that doesn´t shy away from speaking his mind especially on Twitter. German Hoops and Pete Strobl will team up every so often talking basketball with the title “Current basketball affairs with Pete Strobl. You can follow Pete Strobl on twitter @petestrobl

We recently learned that you won’t be coaching in ulm next season. Why are you leaving and where are you headed next?

My family and I love the city of ulm, the organization and the people. It’s not easy to leave a place that checks all those boxes and it’s been a wonderful experience for all of us. We have had an amazing 3 years here. But now it’s time for a new challenge. I’ve reached the level at which I know I’m ready to be the head coach. That doesn’t mean that I’ll never be an assistant coach ever again, but it means that I trust myself to lead a team and make the important decisions that bring a team success. I’m sure that many assistant coaches eventually find themselves at this point and I’m happy to see that friends like Pedro Calles and Chris O’Shea received the chance to lead playoff caliber teams. That gives me hope that a GM will give me the chance to show what I can do. I’m not yet sure what the future holds and where I’ll be next season. All I can say is: stay tuned.

You’ve developed a great reputation in player development, is that directly related to your time with The Scoring Factory?

I love every aspect of the game including defensive tactics and game strategy, but most people have only had a chance to see my work on the court. I appreciate the compliment and people that know me understand how passionate I am about my craft. I’m not shy and don’t try to hide my desire to be one of the best player development coaches in the world. But just so we’re on the same page, it’s important to know that I also want to be the best at everything I do! There’s a lot of good work being done in player development behind the scenes in Germany. I think Carlos Frade does a fantastic job in Berlin for example. However, I would hope that in the next couple years I’m given an opportunity to showcase some of my other abilities and I can develop a reputation and showcase my other strengths as well.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

My primary goal is to simply be proud of the person looking back at me in the mirror. I take pride in knowing that I do everything in my power to be a great husband, father and friend. I’ve been called a “positive disciplinarian” in the past and I think that somewhat summarizes who I am and my overall approach to life, leadership and relationships.

On the basketball coaching side, I would like to be in a position to help people reach their potential and achieve their goals. Only time can tell if that will happen in Europe or in America. Our season just finished and my agent is already updating me with options and possibilities. I’m willing to be patient to make sure my next stop is a great situation with a chance to chase greatness. I love Germany and will always have an affinity for the league here. At the same time, I’m always open to trying something new if it’s with a club that has big dreams that align with my own.

I envision The Scoring Factory having multiple locations around the states run by former players that share in our passion to teach and give back. Ryan Thompson and Jason Thompson are opening our first franchise outside of Pittsburgh this summer serving the greater Tri-State area of New Jersey. Over the years we’ve created a fairly sophisticated curriculum and teaching approach and I know that we’ll be able to have a huge impact on the next wave of talent. It’s become a natural progression for former pros that want to stay involved in the game and I’m proud to be able to provide that platform.

My kids also play basketball and my wife and I are obviously both very supportive of their paths. It’s exciting to think about all of the possibilities on the horizon in all of the areas mentioned above that consume our lives. I’m naturally a planner, but it’s also important to really stay in the moment. As long as I keep doing what I love and attack each day with passion, I’m pretty confident that great things will continue to happen!

                               Sometimes things happen on the basketball court that one wouldn´t necessarily have thought they could have happened. Who would have thought that the Boston Celtics wouldn´t be able to give the Milwaukee Bucks a better run for the money in the playoffs with a Kyrie and Gordon Hayward? Kyrie was there some of time while Hayward was down some Mormon trail in Utah instead of going down the Celtics trail. Ok so the huge rise of EWE Baskets Rashid Mahalbasic has been a refreshing trend in the last two seasons, but who really would have expected him to achieve four triple doubles in one season? Not many, because it has been something as rare in the BBL as it is expecting Rickey Paulding to retire anytime soon. With Cinderella team Rasta Vechta, their feat of beating Freak City and putting them shamelessly into summer vacation was simply incredible, but also at the same time surprising concerning the circumstances. Had everybody been on board going into the Bamberg series, then Rasta Vechta would have been the clear favorite, but instead they arrived in the show down without glue guy Seth Hinrichs, vastly improving big man Clint Chapman and the durable and versatile Tyrone Nash. Instead of being on the next Delta airlines flight to Milwaukee to get back home to Waukesha to tell nonending stories about his incredible season, TJ Bray is still in Germany with one basketball slipper on and ready to try for the next upset against the mighty FC Bayern Munich. Rasta Vechta never lost their style against Bamberg, but played their game until the buzzer and showed amazing fighting qualities for 40 minutes game in and game out that in a way was unhuman. No disrespect to Will Cummings, because he is a great player and was MVP worthy, but the two real MVP´s are TJ Bray and Austin Hollins. Without these two incredible players, Rasta Vechta would just have been an average team and not in the playoffs. A Pedro Calles would still have been able to perform his brilliant basketball knowledge without them and reached many, but the success just wouldn´t have been there. The incredible role model effort of Bray and Hollins sparked their team to extra ordinary abilities. The season of Rasta Vechta has to be classified as one of the BBL´s most incredible team feats in the last 20-30 seasons. There has never ever been anything like it and probably won´t happen again unless Calles coaches a another organization like a Vechta. In 2002-2005 you had the big development of the Artland Dragons and Chris Fleming with the eccentric, but valuable Michael Jordan and the incredible 2006-2007 season of Ludwigsburg, but nothing has matched what Rasta Vechta does. But can they do it again this time against the best team FC Bayern Munich? Most likely not, but if Bray arrives in game one wearing a super man cape, then anything is possible and I´m sure even Marko Pesic will show a smile. Rasta Vechta will moreover need Steph Curry and a superman cape for any miracles to happen.

            FC Bayern Munich come into this very interesting semi final series having swept the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig 3-0. Some may have been expecting serious Munich routes over Braunschweig, but the underdogs played them hard in the three game series losing on average by 10 points per game. In game one, FC Bayern Munich won 70-59 and only one player reached double figures in scoring with ex NBA player Derrick Williams with 12 points. But 11 of the 12 players scored. Braunschweig had three guys in double figures with a potent game from Shaquille Hines with 20 points and 15 points from Deandre Lansdowne. FC Bayern Munich won the rebound duel 37-29. Neither team shot that great, but Munich just made more key plays down the stretch and allowed the Braunschweig bench to only 10 points. In game two, FC Bayern Munich prevailed 84-74. This time Munich had five guys in double figures and were led by Derrick Williams with 17 points. Braunschweig got a huge game from German Christian Sengfelder with 28 points, but once again their bench stunk giving only 4 points. FC Bayern Munich won the rebound battle again 35-31. Braunschweig did a great job coughing up the ball only 5 times, but couldn´t take advantage of their six extra opportunities. In game three FC Bayern Munich closed out the series at home in unspectacular fashion winning 87-77. FC Bayern Munich had five guys in double figures led by German national player Danilo Barthel with 16 points. Braunschweig had three guys in double figures with Christian Sengfelder with 18 points and Shaquille Hines added 17 points. The bench contributed only 11 points. Both teams were firing away combining for 29 three´s while FC Bayern Munich easily controlled the boards again 36-29. The key for the FC Bayern Munich series win was the boards and just doing the needed to win. It seemed like FC Bayern Munich was conserving their energy for the rest of the playoffs.

            Rasta Vechta and Brose Bamberg had the much more exciting series as each game was like a game seven type atmosphere. Rasta Vechta had their biggest achievement in their history beating Brose Bamberg 3-1 and proving that sometimes the seemingly impossible is possible. Rasta Vechta won game one in the Rasta Dome 96-85 and demonstrated early that they had their A game despite having severe injury woes. Rasta Vechta hit a massive 18 three´s led by Austin Hollin´s 8 trey´s and 31 points. Bamberg wasn´t too shabby themselves with 13 three´s. Rasta Vechta knuckled down and were brilliant on the glass outrebounding Bamberg 35-24 with 13 offensive boards. Rasta Vechta had three Germans in the starting lineup that combined for 43 points. The Rasta Vechta bench only had 25 minutes from two players combined. Brose Bamberg had 21 points from ex NBA player Elias Harris and 18 from ex Boston College guard Tyrese Rice. Bamberg played an inexcusable defense. Fans saw the best game in game two as Bamberg survived at home winning 102-98 in OT. Brose Bmaberg got big games form Augustine Rubit with 31 points while Tyrese Rice added 26 points. Rasta Vechta got a huge game from TJ Bray with 29 points and 12 dimes while Josh Young had his best game in the BBL with 28 points off the bench in 27 minutes. Brose Bamberg did a better job controlling the boards 39-27. Rasta Vechta defended with heart and forced Bamberg to 19 turnovers which they couldn´t take advantage of. This is a game that Rasta Vechta could have won. In game three Rasta Vechta returned home and took the 2-1 series lead disposing of Brose Bamberg 87-78. Once again Brose Bamberg was unable to take advantage of the slim seven man rotation as Austin Hollins poured in 21 points and TJ Bray added 13 points and 13 assists. Brose Bamberg spread the scoring around well with four guys in double figures led by Elias Harris with 16 points. Bamberg had the slim 30-29 rebound edge, but all in all Rasta Vechta was the better crunch-time team. In game four Rasta Vechta closed out the series with a 90-86 victor. This was a game that Bamberg led for a long time, but could never shake the Cinderella team allowing them back into the game. Bray and Hollins had their typical strong games combining for 37 points, but it was the German big man duo of Kessens and Herkenhoff who were brilliant combining for 33 points. Rasta Vechta got the best of Brose Bamberg on the boards 34-31 and secured 12 offensive rebounds. Austin Hollins was the hero at the end with the series winning steal. Rasta Vechta´s annoying press defense gave Brose Bamberg fits all series long as they couldn´t make the proper adjustments. This Vechta series win was a great example of what heart and will can do to the confidence of a team that is undermanned. Brose Bamberg was never able to take advantage of Vechta injuries and make the right adjustments. In game 4, it didn´t seem lie Bamberg really wanted to win as much as Rasta Vechta.

This series is about as Davey and Goliath as it will ever get. The Big mighty FC Bayern Munich with 20 plus million budget against the tiny Rasta Vechta which has a small budget that probably would pay for four FC Bayern Munich players at the most. FC Bayern Munich won the first game 79-66 at home. Danilo Barthel led all scorers with 23 points and FC Bayern Munich dominated the boards 33-22. Interesting to note Rasta Vechta´s bench outscored Munich´s 17-15. In the return game, Rasta Vechta easily won 93-75 at home. Rasta Vechta played an impressive offensive game hitting for 14 three´s winning the rebounding battle and forcing the guests to 20 turnovers. But Chapman, Hinrichs and Nash combined for 34 points that will be missing this time. Even with Hinrichs and Chapman back, the FC Bayern Munich depth will be too much This is a series where only FC Bayern Munich can lose almost no matter what they do If they win a tight series, the bashing will be about how they were unable to really destroy a depleted team. Rasta Vechta can go into the series with no pressure as they have nothing to lose. FC Bayern Munich will only be really seen as the winner if they can more or less easily dispose of Rasta Vechta. Of course Rasta Vechta have been doing amazing things all season long and beat FC Bayern Munich once, but can they do it again with a short rotation. They may manage one win, but can they seriously beat FC Bayern Munich in a five game series where they don´t have home court advantage? FC Bayern Munich have to wear down Rasta Vechta from the start and dominate inside. Rasta Vechta will continue to play their game of pressuring the guards early and hoping for steals and as many easy points as possible. Bray and Hollins should continue to play their amazing games, but how much longer can the team energy of Rasta Vechta survive? FC Bayern Munich have to take advantage of this and will if they want to win this series without problems.

It was an extremely warm day in Frankfurt on June 2nd and there was a loud buzz coming from the BCM gym of the Fraport Skyliners, but the BBL team wasn´t there nor the Pro B team as their seasons had ended weeks ago, but instead a young boy by the name of Bonga doing basketball destruction. It wasn´t Los Angeles Laker Isaac Bonga who had made a quick flight back to his old living room for a dunk clinic, but moreover his 14 year old brother Joshua who was helping lead his team to the title. The BCM was the setting of the German U-14 championship as the Fraport Skyliners took on TS Jahn Munich and except for some problems in the third quarter overcame adversary and won the title 95-75. It wasn´t only Joshua Bonga that wooed the fans with spectacular plays and athletic drives, but also his 14 year old teammate Jamaal Phatty who was in early foul trouble, but when the club needed him most stepped up more times than once getting into the lane and finishing with ease as his body was much more developed than all kids around him and he was able to dominate whenever he wanted. After the big win Fraport Skyliners head coach Thomas Koch was pleased, but kept his emotions under control as he described why his boys could win the title. “I am overjoyed that we could win this title. We invested very much into this season and being successful. We practiced a lot as a team and played at many tournaments. Key for the win was that everyone played together in the important phases. We didn´t play so well in the third quarter, but the team then took better care of the ball. That 7-0 run at the end of the third quarter was key which sparked us to get the win”, stressed Thomas Koch.

                TS Jahn had had a tough semi-final beating Art Giants Duesseldorf 72-66 in the semi´s while the Fraport Skyliners destroyed TK Hannover Basketball 75-42. The first quarter was tight for the first 5 minutes as the Fraport Skyliners received the Bonga and Phatty show as they combined for the  first 10 Frankfurt points. Bonga didn´t waste much time getting aggressive and finished with ease in the paint. His body reminded one of his brother Isaac as his athleticism was his big strength. Phatty´s athleticism also stood out as he always searched for that one on one opportunity or mis match chance, but never losing eye of his teammates and potential kick out pass. TS Jahn Munich was led by their Croatian shooting star Tin Udovicit who showed some early cross over´s and scored the majority of his team´s points. Jamaal Phatty was hit early with two offensive fouls and had to hit the bench. But that didn´t faze the Fraport Skyliners as they went on a 8-1 run to extend their lead to 18-10. They got key buckets from captain Josha Zentgraf and Marvin Esser. But TS Jahn Munich found some momentum in the last minutes and cut the Frankfurt lead to 22-19 as their super allrounder Moritz Herbst scored.

                In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners took control and finally broke free going on a 18-6 run to extend their lead to 40-25. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jamaal Phatty who was back after getting two early fouls and took matters into his own hands scoring 10 points. He scored three baskets taking advantage of his huge strength going 1-1 and using his long steps and arms to score baskets easily in the paint. His play and dominance reminded one of how Bonga flourished at the NBBL level in 2016-2017 and Len Schoorman at the NBBL level in 2018-2019. Frankfurt also got another lay in from talented point guard Joshua Bonga and two baskets from the team´s best defender against small players Finley Pruver. The Fraport Skyliners continued to control the game and execute well on offense while on defense they were able to get consistent stops. Bonga remained aggressive and scored two more times in the paint and Phatty also scored. TS Jahn Munich just didn´t have those players that had the individual class of a Bonga or Phatty except for Udovicit who scored a few baskets, but he had little support from his teammates as the Fraport Skyliners led 51-37 at the break. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 51% from the field and 13% from outside and had 28 rebounds(13 offensive rebounds) and 12 turnovers while TS Jahn Munich shot 38% from the field and 25% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

                In the third quarter TS Jahn started to chip away at the Fraport Skyliners lead and got closer to make it a very tight game, but the Phatty and Bonga show in the waning minutes helped Frankfurt get back on track again and within a very short time lead by double digits again before the buzzer sounded. The Fraport Skyliners came out of the break and got a huge three from Roman Holloway and two points from Pruver, but TS Jahn Munich answered with a three from energetic defender Daniel Fackler to cut the Frankfurt lead down to 56-42. Then came the best basketball of TS Jahn Munich in the game as they cruised on a 13-5 run to cut Frankfurt´s lead to 61-55. In the run, TS Jahn Munich got valuable production from Udovicit hitting two baskets, diminutive guard Nico Hirtl made a pretty lay up as he often had big mismatches staring in his face, but found a way to get the hoop through his hard work and will. Big man Janis Grussendorf closed out the run with two massive three´s. In the run TS Jahn Munich was doing everything better than Frankfurt. They stepped up their defense and forced the Fraport Skyliners to countless turnovers and read the plays well and snuck into the passing lanes well. On offense the Bavarian team did a super job staying more calm and executing better. TS Jahn Munich also did a better job rebounding, getting loose balls and just hustling as they had robbed Frankfurt of the momentum. But the Fraport Skyliners stayed tough and didn´t allow the guests to do any more damage, but silenced them to close out the third quarter with a lethal 9-0 run to erase the six point lead and to lead comfortably again 70-55. Sergio Grothe made a basket in the run, but the most damage was done by Phatty and Bonga. Phatty who made huge strides this season hit a huge three while Bonga who has an amazing talent already for keeping his eyes ahead and not looking down so much with his ball handling was key at both ends of the court making a steal and coast to coast drive and basket and then did it again as his defense  was brilliant. He is listed as 173cm, but Sebastian Gleim feels he could become taller than his brother Isaac who is known as a very good defender.

                The 9-0 Frankfurt run at the end of the third quarter somewhat deflated TS Jahn Munich as they were unable to get under 10 points in the fourth quarter. The Fraport Skyliners received early production in the fourth quarter with a Phatty lay in and Esser trey while TS Jahn Munich got key support from Grussendorf who scored two buckets cutting Frankfurt´s lead to 76-61. The Fraport Skyliners now conserved their energy and got support from guys like Pruver, but also got the usual contribution form Bonga who scored in the lane again and Phatty scored in bunches making a sweet turn around shot and then making a steal and going coast to coast for the one handed dunk. In the last year two young Frankfurt talents Elijah Clarance and Len Schoormann showcased their dunking abilities so often and with Phatty a new dunking talent has arrived as his athleticism will continue to turn heads in the next years. With the minutes winding down, bot teams inserted some players for garbage time and TS Jahn Munich got two three´s from Ben Hofbauer while Frankfurt got a trey from Holloway and another lay in from Phatty. As the buzzer sounded there was happiness and enjoyment coming form the Fraport Skyliners fans, family and friends of the young boys as their long season of hard work had paid off. New Fraport Skyliner head coach Sebastian Gleim who helped shape the Skyliners youth program in the last years was very happy for the success of the young kids. “I am really happy for the organization. Frankfurt defended well and moved the ball well. They made a push at the right time at the end of the third quarter. I came here five years to help improve this section of the youth program. I am really happy for Thomas Koch who came with me from Hamburg five years ago. His success is deserved and it is nice seeing him and the boys reach the peak of their work. Winning this title had no priority. Even if we hadn´t won today, we would still have these talents for the next years and continue to help them develop”, stressed Sebastian Gleim. Jamaal Phatty led the Fraport Skyliners with 32 points. Joshua Bonga added 24 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists. Sergio Grothe added 10 points. TS Jahn Munich was led by Tin Udovicit with 23 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and Alan Devries added 16 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 50% from the field and 40% from outside and had 57 rebounds(23 offensive rebounds) and 26 turnovers. TS Jahn Munich shot 36% from the field and 31% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

In this years easyCredit BBL playoffs point guards have played a major role and that is no surprise as a teams game revolves around the quick decisions of this so valuable position as well as that players leadership qualities as well as having the ability to know when to separate scoring and playmaking best. In the quarterfinals fans saw the always so motivated Deandre Lansdowne who has been living the ultimate Cinderella story since he arrived in Germany in 2015 in Herten and balled sometimes in front of less than 1000 people in the Pro B as he gave a solid performance against FC Bayern Munich that was rewarded on account of the deep roster and more talented Bavarian team. Fans also saw the fierce duel between ex Euroleague champion Tyrese Rice and up and coming possible future Euroleague player TJ Bray who took the BBL by storm and played an amazing season that probably only he or Pedro Calles could have envision before the season. And not to forget MHP Riesen head coach John Patrick actually had Bray on his radar before anyone in Germany some years ago, but couldn´t help him shine then because he got an injury before the season started. So many great guards and the list just continues to grow in these playoffs and now really take the lime light and focus in the semi-final series between Alba Berlin and the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. With Will Cummings and Peyton Siva both teams have top BBL point guards if not two of the three best in the league that will clash for the ticket to the BBL final and to the Euroleague next season a league none has ever played in. Both have had stellar basketball careers, but both haven´t won too much. Siva has an NBA resume having played briefly with the Detroit Pistons and one of basketballs big titles the NCAA with Louisville which he won under legendary head coach Rick Pitino. In Europe Siva has reached 4 finals and lost all of them with Alba Berlin which bears comparison to a Jim Kelly even if his 4 loses were Super Bowls. Cummings has one title and that was the 2018 Eurocup championship with   Darussafaka Dogus Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) and this season was instrumental in Oldenburg ending the season in second place helping him be named 2019 BBL MVP. Now both are ready to duel head to head. Both teams swept their respective teams as Alba Berlin got by ratiopharm Ulm and the EWE Baskets Oldenburg by the Telekom Baskets Bonn Cummings was spectacular an din top form averaging 27,0ppg in the series and shot 50% from outside. Siva has had his difficulties with injuries in his three year tenure with Alba Berlin and missed the first two games against ratiopharm Ulm, but returned in the third game and was his potent self scoring 18 points, dishing out 6 dimes, getting 3 rebounds, getting 4 steals and nailing 5 three´s. Even if Cummings is the more explosive scorer, Siva brings that valuable calmness and all-around solid point guard play that always comes in handy on a team that is unselfish. This should be a great battle among the point guards, but slowing down a Cummings more than a Siva will be most vital, because Oldenburg rely more on him than does Alba Berlin Siva.

            Alba Berlin crushed ratiopharm Ulm 3-0 and showed them an offensive lesson where the opponent at times must have felt like they were still in school and trying to comprehend what the teacher was trying to explain, but were unable to let any of their defensive knowledge translate to success on the court. Alba Berlin averaged a massive 96 points in the three game series. The whole series had a pattern in which Alba Berlin won most statistical categories. In game one the Alba Berlin offensive machine won 107-78 and had 6 guys in double figures and dished out 30 assists. The team shot over 50% from outside and Ex NBA player Derrick Walton was superb with 11 points and 12 assists playing for the injured Peyton Siva. He is a true floor general that knew how to lead his team for 40 minutes the way a point guard should. Alba Berlin won the rebound battle easily 34-24. The only solid stat of ratiopharm Ulm was their 12 turnovers, but a big weakness in the game was that that reliable go to guy who could take responsibility and take over was invisible. In game two Alba Berlin won 98-83 and had 4 guys in double figures scorng. Martin Hermannsson led all scorers with 23 points. The club shot in the high 40´% from outside and had 26 assists. Alba Berlin secured the rebound duel again 26-21 and had only 9 turnovers. Ratiopharm Ulm coughed up the ball 16 times which was a big factor for the loss on account of not being able to take care of the ball. In game three Alba Berlin won easily 100-83 as 6 guys cored in double figures and they threw 28 assists. Derrick Walton was solid and had 11 points and 7 assists off the bench. Alba Berlin easily won the rebound contest again 34-25 and nailed 14 trey´s. Alba Berlin were more careless with the ball with 18 turnovers, but Ulm was even worse with 21. Ratiopharm Ulm did a good job in the series having different guys share the offensive load, but all in all too little support came from the bench. A good offensive team will never beat a great offensive team if it can´t defend properly.

            The EWE Baskets Oldenburg didn´t play there best basketball, but if your going to play shoot out then you have to have you’re a-game offense which they did. The Telekom Baskets Bonn showed spurts of good offensive basketball, but as usual like all season long their defense let them down. In game one the EWE Baskets won a 105-94 shoot out contest. They had four players in double figures in the rout. They didn´t need more than a 8 man rotation as their big three of Cummings, Mahalbasic and Paulding combined for 64 points. They shot well from outside and won the boards 33-24. The Telekom Baskets Bonn showcased 5 players in double figures in scoring. Cenetr Charles Jackson had a strong game with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams did a very good job combining for 13 turnovers. The Telekom Baskets Bonn just couldn´t supply the dangerous fire power that Oldenburg did. In game 2 the EWE Baskets Oldenburg continued their offensive assault on Bonn winning 97-87. Again the big three of Cummings, Mahalbasic and Paulding were brilliant combining for 55 points. Mahalbasic layed up his incredible fourth triple double of the season proving he is the most versatile center the league might have ever seen. Oldenburg wasn´t quite as consistent as in game one as they didn´t shoot as well and allowed Bonn many more extra chances on the glass allowing 16 offensive rebounds. But it was enough for the win as the Bonn just couldn´t make any proper adjustments to slow down the big 3. In game three, the EWE Baskets Oldenburg closed out the series winning 97-84. They didn´t shoot as well from outside again, but shot very well in the two point area. They learned from their sloppy play in game two and was more disciplined on the glass winning the rebounds 33-23 and gave up only 5 offensive rebounds. The big three didn´t dominate like usual as Mahalbasic had only 6 points, but they got added support from Nathan Boothe who had 25 points in 27 minutes. Bonn had a superb game from Charles Jackson again with 28 points. He is a center that Bonn should think about holding. He is the team´s best center in many years. Oldenburg did another good job staying under 10 turnovers. Bonn´s inability to defend cost them this series as well as not keeping Cummings under control. A very disappointing resume since they have top defensive guard stoppers in DiLeo and Polas, but sometimes even the best defenders can´t control a MVP like Cummings.

            In the easyCredit BBL regular season the clubs split the two games with each team winning on the road. Alba Berlin won the first game in Oldenburg 93-84. Alba Berlin played a very usual strong offensive game spreading the ball around and involving everyone as six guys scored in double figures. This was early in the season where Peyton Siva was injured and Derrick Walton hadn´t arrived yet, but the club got exceptional playmaking from Stefano Peno with 10 points and 7 dimes. As usual Alba Berlin controlled the boards 36-31 and forced Oldenburg to 11 turnovers while they took good care of the ball with only 6 turnovers.Cummings and Paulding combined for 42 points while Mahalbasic was kept under control with 9 points. In game two the EWE Baskets went to Berlin and walked away with a convincing 94-78 victory. Oldenburg defended very well limiting Alba Berlin´s outside game and offensively were on fire shooting near 50% form the parking lot. The big three combined for 60 points and Cummings exploded with 34 points. Oldenburg kept Alba Berlin off the glass securing 37 rebounds and giving up only 27 rebounds. The only negative point was their 16 turnovers.

            This will be a very exciting series even if history isn´t on the EWE Baskets Oldenburg side and it won´t be again this time. In the last 10 years these two clubs have met three times with Alba Berlin winning each time. In the 2010-2011 season, Alba Berlin rallied from down 2-1 in games to win, in 2014-2015, Alba Berlin swept Oldenburg and last season, Alba Berlin was able to win again in a exciting 5 game series. The way both teams can explode on offense at any time, this could be a series where each team finds a way to win on the road. The only way to beat Alba Berlin is to play defense. They tend to cough up the ball at a high rate and Oldenburg will have to be sneaky and smart and find good defensive game plans to keep Alba Berlin off balance. But that is easier said then done. Alba Berlin has the needed experience and depth to win this series if they can play Alba Berlin basketball which is playing their beautiful team basketball, dominating the boards and playing solid defense. The EWE Baskets Oldenburg are well rested from their non international club schedule, but just don´t have enough consistent fire power from the bench. Granted the big three of Cummings, Paulding and Mahalbasic probably will continue to do damage, but just won´t have enough to get by Alba Berlin. The only way that happens is if they clone Mahalbasic and he averages a triple double in the series.

TJ Bray is a 26 year old 196cm guard from New Berlin, Wisconsin that is in his fifth professional season and first with Rasta Vechta (Germany-ProA). He has put up massive stats this season averaging 15,1ppg, 3,4rpg and 8,2apg and a big reason for the club being in the semi-finals. He began his career in 2010 with Ivy league school Princeton (NCAA) and played a total of 115 NCAA games and as senior played 25 games averaging 18.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 64.9%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 80.1%. He turned professional in 2014 and played with Lighthouse Trapani (Italy-A2) playing 29 games averaging 9.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: In his second professional season he played with Novipiu Casale Monferrato (Italy-Serie A2) playing 35 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 80.8%. Two seasons ago he got experience with Fit Brussels (Belgium-Euromillions League) playing 33 games averaging 8.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 62.5%. Last season he played with Kolossos H Hotels (Greece-A1) playing 27 games averaging 12.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 76.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the amazing 3-1 series win against Brose Bamberg.

TJ congrats on the amazing 3-1 series win over Brose Bamberg. The Rasta Vechta Cinderella season continues. How special has the playoff ride been in comparison to the regular season?

It’s been a very crazy ride so far. We had a ton of fun in the regular season but knew we would ultimately be judged on our playoff performance. We were short-handed in round 1 but the guys that were left went out and fought and battled as much as we could. To beat a team with the history of Bamberg and to clinch the series on their court made it even more special.

You have played many games and have played in various countries. Were these last 10 days of playoff basketball the most exciting time in your professional career?

The last 10 days have been a blur. All of us were just trying to keep our bodies in the best shape possible with all the minutes we were playing. Once the season is finished, I’ll be able to sit back and digest things a bit more.

Rasta Vechta had so many great wins this season beating Bamberg 4 times, FC Bayern Munich once and Alba Berlin once. After beating so many great teams so many times, could one enjoy this win as much as winning that first unbelievable game against Alba Berlin earlier in the season?

Absolutely. The win against Alba was our first big win but we haven’t taken any of them for granted since then. We know beating great teams is very difficult, so when we’re able to do it, we enjoy it. Winning these games doesn’t necessarily surprise us anymore, but we still enjoy them the same.

You guys went into the series with your backs somewhat to the wall without glue guy Seth Hinrichs, versatile big man Clint Chapman and the energetic Tyrone Nash. How vital mentally was this whole process getting by Bamberg? How important was the team mentality for being able to get by Bamberg?

The injuries we’ve sustained have been almost unbelievable. Losing not only those guys but not having Michael Kessens and Robin Christen in games made things even more difficult. All of our big men have been fantastic for us all season. Each one of them brings special things to the table. We knew going into the series against Bamberg we would be outsized. However, we knew if we played team defense the way we have all season, we could make things difficult for any team. Philipp Herkenhoff, Mike, and Rob, all really stepped up for us in Round 1 and gave us everything they had.

There were so many highs and lows in game 4 in Bamberg. Never to take anything away from the incredible team play, at times it seemed like Bamberg didn’t want to win the game just with certain turnovers. Do you feel like mentally Bamberg had problems they couldn’t win in their own home?

Not at all. Bamberg was a Champions League Final 4 team and have players who have accomplished a lot at the highest levels of European basketball. They know what it takes to win and gave 100% all series. We’ve had three games against them come down to the wire. In two of them, Tyrese Rice was able to make a play to send it into overtime. In Game 4 we were able to get a stop and close them out.

How much fun has it become playing in Freak City now? Do you feel having these brutal playoff experiences in a tough environment helped the club in positive ways that could continue to help the overall toughness and survival rate as you now return to the Audi Dome in a series where you won’t have home court advantage?

Playing a club with the history of Bamberg is always special. I had heard plenty about Freak City before I got to Germany so seeing it up close was a great experience. Their fans were hostile but treated our team with nothing but respect. It was really a fun series to be a part of as a player. We know going to Munich won’t be easy. However, we have been able to have success on the road this year. We have to start this series with great energy and a defensive mindset. We’ll see how the ball bounces from there.

A big reason for the success of Rasta Vechta this season has been the style and press. It is something you have done all season long and no team has really found a cure for. When you look back at the first days of the season as the team was practicing their weapon did you ever think it would be so consistently valuable?

I can’t say I knew it would be as successful as it has been, but I knew we would be a problem for teams defensively. What Pedro has asked from us on the defensive end has been consistent all year. Everyone knows where they’re supposed to be because it has been the same concepts since day one. On top of that, when you have a great defender like Max DiLeo pressuring ball handlers, everything gets easier for everyone around him. In one of our first scrimmages of the season Max forced turnovers on three straight possessions just from hounding the ball handler. When you play with a guy like him, you don’t want to be the weak link. His passion and consistency brings the level of our entire team up.

Austin Hollins had another MVP game, was hitting crazy shots from left and right all night long. He also made the biggest play of the game stripping Tyrese Rice in the last seconds to secure the ball. How often have you had MVP in your thoughts this season when he made a play?

He is definitely one of the best players I’ve ever played with. His incredible shot-making makes things much easier for all of us. Teams have to pay such close attention to him when he’s coming off screens that he consistently opens up easy layups for his teammates. He’s a very smart cutter as well and is always finding ways to get open at exactly the right time. I’m even more impressed with him defensively though. Coach asked him to guard Tyrese Rice full-court for four games and he didn’t hesitate on taking that assignment. Off the ball, he has an incredible ability to jump into passing lanes and get steals. There aren’t many basketball players that can affect a game on both ends of the court like he can.

How tough was losing game two in Bamberg 102-98 in OT. That game looked like it took most of the teams energy. Did this tough loss spark something special in the club that helped them add extra strength to the game three and four wins?

It was a brutal loss. We fought so hard with our limited rotation only to go to overtime and come up short. However, we knew that it was only one loss in a best-of-five series so we had to regroup quickly. Our fans in the Rasta Dome gave us the boost we needed in Game 3 to help us get the upper hand back in the series.

What was the secret for Rasta Vechta being able to play with a 6-7 man roster against a deep athletic team like Brose Bamberg? I could have expected one game like that or maybe two, but never four. Do you feel sometimes that the will and heart of a player can block out serious body pain and help reach new unexpected heights?

It wasn’t really anything special other than our will to fight. We’ve been working hard since August and we weren’t about to stop because of some injuries. We had a depleted front-court but Philipp Herkenhoff, Robin Christen, and Chris Carter all stepped up huge and played a ton of great minutes for us. Philipp had huge double-doubles for us in Games 1 and 2. He was exhausted but still kept pushing hard and hit that huge 3 late in the fourth quarter of Game 4. Rob did a fantastic job on the boards until he got hurt making a difficult defensive rotation and put his body on the line. Chris Carter played completely out of position but battled and gave us 24 huge minutes in Game 3. He hadn’t played the 4 until the playoffs and learned the position completely on the fly. The 5 points he gave us at the end of the second quarter in Game 3 really set the tone for the rest of the series.

Rasta Vechta was without two vital big men Clint Chapman and Tyrone Nash, but Germans Philipp Herkenhoff and Michael Kessens were the x-factors. Please describe the worth to the team and what big step they made only in this series?

Philipp is young but he didn’t back down at all in the series. Those double-doubles were monster performances. He made big shots and battled defensively against guys who weigh many more kilos than he does. He’s going to be a very special player as he continues to grow into his body and develop. Nobody is in the gym more than Philipp. As far as Mike goes, we wouldn’t be here without him. Defensively, he’s incredible hedging against opposing guards. He’s great at seeing things develop and is the anchor at the back of our defensive system. Offensively, I’ve never played with a big man who has better footwork and patience than him. I know when I come off a pick and roll with Mike, I can give him a pass just about anywhere. He is always able to catch it, balance himself, and make the right play for our team.

After many years away from the BBL, Josh Young returned and had a great season. He was also a vital spark in the Bamberg series. How vital was he for you becoming comfortable to a new league early and what one thing did he help you most that made your life a lot easier?

20 minutes after the club announced I signed, JY reached out to me welcoming me to the team. He’s been a great leader for us the entire season. He has an ability to get guys to buy-in and create a family-like atmosphere. On court, he really helped lead this team by buying into his role coming off the bench and making shots. He’s carried us through some difficult stretches in games by knocking down tough, contested shots. His ability to take a 1,2 gather step before catching the ball to create space is amazing. He can get his shot off against anyone.

One of the biggest stories of the season has been head coach Pedro Calles. How do you feel did he grow in the Bamberg series? He took on a new challenge with a deflated line up and succeeded.

Nobody is more prepared than Pedro. After our last regular season game, we had a team meeting and Pedro laid out what we were going to have to do to beat Bamberg. And he was exactly right with the things he said. He’s great with the X’s and O’s but he’s an even better motivator. He’s very consistent with everything he asks from us and as long as we do those things, he let’s us be ourselves out there. It’s been a ton of fun playing for him with this group of guys.

Let’s talk about your game. The guy that first saw your worth was Ludwigsburg head coach John Patrick who already had you on his list in 2016, but an injury cost you your first experience there. Have you had contact to him this season and did you get a congrats message from him after beating Bamberg?

We said hello and shook hands at our games this season but haven’t had any contact outside of that. We’re both competitors so we’ve been focused on our own seasons.

You had some solid seasons as a professional, but never as you have this season. After your first few practices this season would you have thought that you could put up such massive stats like you have?

I knew right away Pedro’s system would be great for me. I’m a read and react player and that’s what Pedro allows us to do. We’ve been constantly finding new wrinkles in our offense that makes life easier for everyone.

You had a huge game two, but didn’t have to be such a scorer in the other games and concentrated more on playmaking. Has your decision making and separating when to score and pass been one of your biggest strengths this season?

I don’t really think about scoring vs. playmaking when I’m out there. I just try to read what the defense is giving me and make the best play for my team. Some nights that’s scoring, other nights it’s distributing the ball.

You more than doubled your assist average this season to all the other professional seasons. You once averaged 5,2apg at Princeton. It is amazing that your averaging 8,2apg while also scoring very much. It isn’t like your averaging 7 or 8 points per game but your scoring a lot and making a lot of assists. Was there something specific that has made you an elite assist man in the BBL or is this something you feel you could of always achieved with the right teammates and coaches?

Again, it comes back to Pedro’s system. We have some basic sets that we run but other than that we’re just reading and reacting. We’ve got a lot of smart players on this team so we’ve been able to get a lot of easy points. We’ve found different ways to score off back cuts and running hard in transition. I know that if I get guys the ball in the right spots, they’ll make a good play.

You play with so much confidence and calmness. Is this something that you always had or has this been something that grew this season with your leadership duties?

I’ve always tried to be an emotional rock for my teams. I never want to get too high or too low on the court. In every game, there are good runs and bad runs but you have to be focused on the entire 40-minute picture.

You led the team to an amazing playoff series win over Bamberg. How do you feel did you grow in this series as a player? How did your leadership and self-confidence profit most?

I knew this would be an important series for me as a player. Going up against guys like Tyrese Rice, Nikos Zisis, Bryce Taylor, and Ricky Hickman, is always special. They’ve collectively accomplished just about everything possible throughout their careers. Being able to win a series against them helped me recognize that this team can accomplish anything. People could write off our regular season win against them as a fluke but now we did it over an entire series.

You next play powerhouse FC Bayern Munich. How excited are you about the semi-finals series and does it feel like a David & Goliath

Series like this are why you play basketball. It’s going to be an awesome test for us and we’re going to continue to chase history. We’ve been the underdog all season so nothing changes now. We’ve got five games to continue to prove ourselves.

Rasta Vechta split the season series in the BBL 1-1. They are well rested and you had a tough taxing series against Bamberg. What kind of series can we await and will Rasta Vechta be able to keep up the intensity again?
Nothing will change from our side. We’re going to continue to battle, fight, and scrap, on every possession. We’ve got nothing to lose and we’re going to play like it.

What is your prediction of the 2019 NBA finals Golden State-Toronto Raptors? Can a Kawhi Leonard do some magic?

I’ll take the Warriors. 4-1.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Avengers: Endgame but I’m currently catching up on the TV show, Barry. That’s my go-to at the moment.

Thanks TJ for the chat.

Sean Lloyd is a 22 year old 196cm guard/forward from Philadelphia that will be starting his professional career in Germany with Pro A team wiha Panthers. He got valuable early experience at schools The Haverford School, Imhotep Charter High School and Mt. Zion Prep School. He then had a stellar career at Southern Illinois playing a total of 106 games. In his junior season he played 31 games averaging 11.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 73.1% and in his senior year he played 32 games averaging 10.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 71.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after signing with the wiha Panthers. 

Sean thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment an dhow has your summer been?

I am currently at home, but I will be returning to school early June to workout. My summer has been going great

I have the fortune to have your uncle Lewis Lloyd’s autograph. How often do you come upon somebody telling you that they have his autograph?

I have had a few people tell me they had my uncles autograph because the both of our colleges were in the same conference

What kind of relationship have you been fortunate to have with Lewis Lloyd and how influential has he been on your career?


Me and my uncle have a good relationship. He talks to me sometimes but the biggest influence on my career has been my father, he breaks down my games and tells me my flaws.

Congrats on signing with German Pro A team wiha Panthers. You signed very early into the off season. How did you experience your first transfer period. Did you have a good share of offers or was the Panthers the only one you had?

I had other offers but playing I wanted to play with a winning organization and the Panthers have been winning.

What was the deciding factor that made you decide to go to Germany? Head coach Alen Velcic is really high on your abilities.

The deciding factor was that I believe in coach Velcic and how he plans to use me as a player.

What do you know in general about the country and Germany. Did you know that some of former S Illinois players like Jermaine Dearman (Trier), Jamaal Tatum (Duesseldorf), Darren Brooks (BG Goettingen) and Josh Bone (Gotha 2) have played in Germany. Did you talk with any of them or get advice and information from others about Germany?

The only thing I know about Germany is the stuff I looked up on the internet, things like it’s a good country and people there speak English so that will make the transition easier. I have not talked to the former players that went to SIU, I don’t know them personally.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard/forward that can shoot very well and is a good defender. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I try to model my game after 2 guards in the NBA such as Victor Oladipo and Dion Waiters. Those 2 players I study the most.

You’re a player that can shoot very well, but a thing that stands out is your work ethic. How vital was adding more time in working at your game for 12 months a year. Was there something that sparked you to want to work harder or have you always had a very healthy work ethic?

My work ethic came from just being overlooked at times, I feel like I am a way better player than what I get credited for so that gave me motivation just to stay in the gym and keep getting better.

Head coach Alen Velcic is very excited about your attitude on the defensive end and your nerves of steal. Even if you are a very versatile offensive player, do you feel like you could become a defensive game changer at the professional level?

I think I can change the game on defense because I take pride on playing defense, defense is easy to me because I love to compete.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease, but what do you feel has been a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed?

A hidden strength that doesn’t always get noticed is my post up game, I’m very good in the mid post to low block area when I have a smaller defender on me.

How does a normal summer work out day look like for you? On what things will you be working on most this off season so you come to Germany in August ready to start your rookie season prepared?

Most summer days I’m working to improve my ball handling abilities and I just get up a ton of shots. Also working on making 3s off the dribble.

It isn’t always the coaches that are most influential for a player, but you credit former teammates like Mike Rodriguez and Anthony Beane as being crucial in your development at S Illinois. How did each guy help you best in becoming the player that you are today?

Mike and Anthony just pushed me to go hard, I played behind Anthony my freshman year and I had seen how hard he worked for everything he got and I wanted that. There has been countless nights when Mike forced me to go to the gym with him going into my sophomore year and that’s what made me a gym rat.

As a junior you scored 21 points in an exciting 81-80 victory against Missouri State. What memories do you have of that game and does it belong to one of your best game in school?

That game against Missouri state my junior was a fun game to be a part of, especially since 20 of my points came from the 2nd half and in overtime. That is definitely one of my better games in a SIU jersey.

How tough was it facing off against powerhouse Kentucky in the first game as a senior. You lost 71-59 and had 6 points. What memories do you have of that game and with so many talented Wild Cats on the court who will probably go to the NBA down the road, which guy looked the best to you and could be a good NBA player down the road?

Memories I have against playing against Kentucky was playing in Rupp arena, it was a great experience. I feel like we could have won if it weren’t for the refs lol. But the best player who will have a good NBA career is Tyler Hero because he’s a good scorer.

You were teammates with Kavion Pippen who has that famous name. Did he tell any stories about Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen?

Kavion is the nephew of Scottie and his relationship with his uncle wasn’t super tight so I really don’t remember him telling us any stories

How did head coach Barry Hinson groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Hinson taught me how to talk to the media and how to address people

Who won a one on one in practice you or Armon Fletcher?

Me and Armon played so many one on ones, it really depended who had the hotter hand that day, but I think I’m still up a few games.

You played at quite a few high schools like The Haverford School Imhotep Charter High School and Mt. Zion Prep School. How important was it for you getting that total high school experience. What kind of player were you already coming into S Indiana having seen so many different coaches and schools?

Coming into Southern Illinois I was prepared for the hard practices because I went to so many schools and all the schools had hard practices. By going to so many different schools I learned how to adapt to my teammates fast and learn their strengths and weaknesses and how to be a good teammate.

Please name your personal NBA Rushmore. Please pick 4 NBA heads that you feel make the perfect NBA Rushmore.

My Mount Rushmore of NBA players would be LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Lebron or Jordan?

I think the greatest of all time is Lebron James, he’s been my favorite player since I seen him play in Philly when I was a child.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was the intruder.

Thanks Sean for the chat.

Reed Timmer is a 23 year old 185cm guard from Wisconsin that completed his rookie season with Pro A team Tigers Tuebingen averaging 18,5ppg, 3,4rpg and 3,1apg while shooting 45,8% from outside. He had a stellar four year career at Drake where he left the school as it’s all-time leading scorer passing an ex Tuebingen player Josh Young. In his senior year at Drake, he played 32 games averaging19.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 87.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com at the end of his rookie season.

Reed thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and what will be the first restaurant that you will visit when you get off the plane when you get home?

Thanks for taking the time to talk me I appreciate it! At the moment I am still in Germany and will be going back to the states on April 10th. The first restaurant I will go to when I get off the plane will either be Culver’s or Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

Has the NCAA Madness taken your mind off not reaching the playoffs with the Tigers Tuebingen?

Not really, it was tough to come so close to making the playoffs and falling short, but at the end of the day I am going to use it as a learning point and grow from it in the future.

The club wanted to get back to the easyCredit BBL. How did you experience this season in Tuebingen with the team and fans? Is the disappointment high that the BBL won’t be back next season for the team? 

The club, team and fans were really great to me. I enjoyed playing in this city in front of their fans and it gave me great experience for my career. The club definitely wanted to get back to the BBL this year but I think they learned a lot this year about how to make that happen in the upcoming years. 

One can say it was a tale of two seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. In 2018 things didn’t go well, but with the arrival of Georg Kampf in mid January the team was reborn. What was your summary of the season of Tuebingen? 

When Georg came in for the second half of the season, our team really pulled together and got things rolling. It took us a while to learn how to play together with all new players on the team. We definitely had a lot of ups and downs in the season and we ended up coming one game short of the playoffs. Overall I thought it was a positive experience for me personally and glad my first season as a pro was in Tuebingen. 

Before Georg Kampf came on board the club had a disappointing record of 7-11. What do you feel were the main reasons then for the club not being able to have more success? 

We had all new players so I think it took us some time to get used to playing to everyone’s strengths. Frustration was high, but we were doing everything we could to try and turn it around.

Ex head coach Aleksandar Nadjfeji was a legend in the BBL as a player and had had coaching experience as an assistant. Last season he had misfortune of not keeping Tuebingen in the BBL and this season he was let go. Is he one of those classic examples of a guy that is simply better suited to be an assistant than a head coach? 

With this being my first season as a pro, its difficult for me to compare and say whether or not he is better suited for a certain job. I though Sasa was a great guy and I always respected his coaching skills as he helped me in many ways. I wish him nothing but the best in the future whether that be in a head coaching position or an assistant position. 

Head coach Georg Kampf is one of those coaches that is very hard nosed, won’t take crap from anyone and has his own way of getting his message across. How vital was his presence for the turnaround of the team? 

His hard nosed style I think was huge for our team in turning the season around. Everyone respected his strategy and played hard for him and it ended up being a favorable season once he took over. 

What do you feel changed with the arrival of Georg Kampf? The team defended better, but also had games where they gave up many points and the offense seemed to score more. 

He changed our offense and defense in little ways that I think helped us. Encouraged us to score as much as we could and playing ball screens differently on defense helped us. 

Do you feel like if Georg Kampf had been brought in a month earlier that you would have made the playoffs or did the late season loses against PS Karlsruhe and the Artland Dragons cost you the season.

Its hard to tell whether or not we would’ve made the playoffs if he came in earlier. So I don’t know exactly what would have happened or if it would have been better. 

Obviously the Tigers Tuebingen want to get back to the BBL as soon as possible. Despite not having been able to accomplish it this season, what positives did the season bring the organization?

I think the organization showed resilience in the face of adversity and showed that they will never give up no matter the circumstances. That is something that I have a lot of respect for. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. What did you appreciate most from American Elijah Allen? Was he a guy that gave you not only tips on the court, but also about the German culture? 

My teammates were awesome in making me feel comfortable in my first season overseas. He was great both on and off the court with giving me tips and tricks to enjoying my time over here. I can’t thank him enough for that. 

Even if the team didn’t make the playoffs, how did the young guys profit most from 30 year old veteran Tyler Laser? What player do you feel gained the most from his presence? 

Tyler helped me a lot too. He helped me develop good habits and pushed me every day in practice to get better. I feel like I honestly gained the most from his presence this year. 

German Besnik Bekteshi has been around for ages, but is only 26 years old. How did his game develop further and is he still a guy that could make more of an impact in the BBL down the road?

Besnik is a great guy and a great player. He never makes the wrong decision and defends hard. He found his role on our team and did it very well game in and game out. 

German Enosh Wolf had a very strong season. One could say his break out season as a professional. How did you see the NCAA champion develop further this season and is he a late bloomer and still talented enough for another BBL run? 

He really showed to everyone this season that he can play at a very high level consistently. I think our team’s style of play helped his game a lot and it showed. I think he can definitely play and make an impact on the BBL level. 

How raw is Nemanja Nadjfeji? You saw him play every day. Did the absence of his father affect him or is he still on a good way as he continues to develop as a player? 

Nemanja is a really talented young player. He works hard every day and I think the absence of his father affected him a little bit, but he handled it really well overall. I think he will continue to get better year after year and he has a lot of potential.

Let’s talk about your game. You had a very good rookie season in Germany averaging 18,4ppg, 3,4rpg and 3,2apg and shot 45% from outside. How content were you with your season? 

I was very pleased with how I played personally this year. I managed to become more and more consistent as the season went on and I was happy with my percentages. I am never content however, I always want to get better and improve year after year. 

What was the toughest adjustment for you on the court coming from the NCAA in the Pro A? 

The adjustments I had to make were adapting to the strength of the pro players, speed of the game with the shorter shot clock, and knowing where my spots are to score and how to get them game in and game out.

In our first interview last summer, you stated this about your game. ‘It definitely took me some time to be able to find the balance between being aggressive but doing it under control and being able to make the right decision. The more I play and get experience the easier it becomes’. What kind of further step were you able to make as a rookie with the balance between being aggressive and making the right decisions? 

Just playing more games at a high level helped me recognize what decisions to make and the more I play and get experience the more I will improve. 

In our last interview you stated ‘Passion and competitiveness are huge parts of who I am’. How tough was your rookie season in terms of not always having success? How were you able to stay positive and focused best? 

I have always been a guy that never gets too high or too low. I went though some tough seasons in college so that definitely helped, and I just had to remind myself to continue to put the work in and everything will balance out in the end. 

What was your personal favorite game experience as a rookie? Possibly the 23/5/10 stat line in the win against the Artland Dragons? 

That game was definitely fun, I would either say that game or my first game at home as a pro when I scored 33 points and our team won.

Who was the toughest player that you battled against in the Pro A in your rookie season? 

The toughest player that I battled against is tough to say. A few guys that come to mind are Tevonn Walker and Sharon Ely.

What is the next step for you? I’m sure you will get good offers from Pro A playoff teams and possibly some BBL teams. Would Germany be a big option on your list or could you imagine taking on a new challenge and culture in another country?

I am not sure exactly what is next to me. I am looking forward to seeing what opportunities come in the next few months. I enjoyed my time in Germany and wouldn’t be opposed to playing in Germany again, but I have a completely open mind going into this off season regarding where I will go next. 

You have a long summer ahead of you. On what things will you be working on most in the basketball lab as you get ready for that next opportunity?

I want to continue to work on my shot both from 3 and the mid range, getting quicker and stronger as well as trying to play against /workout with other pros to learn from them. 

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s 

Five of my best teammates in college and the pros are Enosch Wolf, CJ Rivers, Graham Woodward, Casey Schlatter and Aaron Brennan.

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

I think he definitely has the talent to do so. Only time will tell but I am looking forward to watching his career and seeing what he can do. 

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

The greatest of all time debate will always be a changing one. I think if I was him I would say the same thing.

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion? 

I think Michael Jordan is more of a GOAT than Tom Brady

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season? 

His legacy is unmatched already so any other super bowls that he wins will further cement in his hall of fame career. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was Bohemian Rhapsody

Thanks Reed for the chat.

Kyle Hines is a 32 year old 198cm power forward from Sicklerville, New Jersey that is playing his sixth season with CSKA Moscow. He is a powerful player who loves to attack the basket. Has a good 1-vs-1 game and likes to go inside. He is undersized to play the power forward, but his great wingspan (7-1) allows him to guard taller players and to intimidate. He’s also a great leaper and reads the opponent’s game well. He played at NC-Greensboro (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 31 games: 19.2ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.8spg, 3.1bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3Pts: 12.5%, FT: 62.8%. He was invited to play at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft): 3 games: 17.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.3apg, 2.3spg, 3.3bpg, FGP: 78.6%, FT: 72.7%. He then had pre draft workouts with Sacramento Kings and the Charlotte Bobcats (NBA). In 2009, he took part in the Orlando Pro Summer League (Oklahoma City Thunder). In 2009-2010, he stayed in Italy with Prima Veroli (Italy-Lega2) playing 40 games averaging 18.5ppg, 8.1rpg, Steals-2 (3.5spg), Blocks-4 (1.6bpg), FGP-3 (64.0%), 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 57.8%. He played NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (New Orleans Hornets) in the summer of 2010.In 2010-2011 he played for the Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 10 Euroleague games averaging 12.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 64.3%, FT: 46.7%; and in the German League played 46 games averaging 10.4ppg, 4.6rpg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP-3 (61.1%), 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 52.4%. He won the double with Bamberg. He played for Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece-A1) from 2011-2013 winning two Euroleague titles. germanhoops.com got an exclusive interview which was the sites 16th with him dating back to his days in Bamberg in 2010-2011. 

Head Coach Dimitris Itoudis and Kyle Hines after winning the 2019 Euroleague title

Kyle thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Before we start with the amazing 2019 Euroleague title, I have to ask you about a player you faced off against last week in the VTB game against Zenit. I know you have seen thousands of players in your career, but can at times a player that scored only 0 points make an impression on you? You faced off against Canadian sniper Philipp Scrubb a number of times this season. What memories will you have of him?

He is a talented player. He is a main reason why Zenit has been successful this season. He played very well against us the other times we played. He isn’t only a good scorer, but a great all around player. He does so much on the court that doesn’t translate to what you see on the stat sheet. He will continue to be a key player in the playoffs for them

Congrats on winning your fourth Euroleague. How good does it feel winning it again after doing it last in 2016?

It feels incredible to have won 4 titles. It just feels unreal. It’s already difficult to win just one, but to imagine winning 4 is hard. I still haven’t fully grasped this win. It has been an amazing journey. 

I am sure you got many many messages after the win. Did you get any special message from your ex coach Chris Fleming or was it just the normal blab la that one gets after a title like ‘great job Kyle or congrats Kyle?

I got a lot of different messages. I got a lot of messages from people from Bamberg. Tibor Pleiss also messaged me congratulating me on the win. Casey Jacobsen and his wife messaged me as did John Goldsberry. Chris Fleming didn’t directly message me, but one of his close friends on the Brooklyn Nets staff told me that Chris was really happy for me.

You last won the Euroleague with CSKA Moscow in 2016. How was this title different for you from the first one that you won with CSKA?

This one was different because we came in as underdogs. This Final 4 wasn’t an easy one for us. People doubted us or criticized us. Reporters were calling us too soft and didn’t think that we could come this far. Being able to win this title against Real Madrid is a huge achievement after our disappointing loss to them last year. This title showed just how much character we have and the type of players that we have. We showed that we could fight through adversary and be successful.

You have won so many titles in your career especially with CSKA. What did you enjoy most about the post game celebrations this time? I believe there were tears this time. 

Yes there were a lot of tears for this win. The thing I enjoyed most about this title was being able to celebrate with my family. This was the first time that I was able to have my whole family with me. My two kids were born in 2016. To have everyone with me now was great. To be able to share this experience with them made it truly special.

CSKA Moscow won a hard fought semi-final game against Real Madrid. One could say that that was like a final already. How vital was the semi-final win for the the team being able to cope better for the final game against Efes?

I think that being able to beat Real Madrid sparked us to be able to win the final. History has shown that we have had problems in semi-final games. This win over Real Madrid gave us extra confidence and momentum. Beating Real Madrid was huge. We showed so much passion coming back from 15 down and getting the win. We showed just how much character we have and the type of players we have that will do everything to get the win.

Did CSKA Moscow develop a special kind of self confidence and was able to up it’s mentality after getting the come from behind win against Real Madrid?

The win over Real Madrid definitely allowed us to take more weight off our shoulders. We had a difficult game last year where we had a lot of pressure. This year we showed that we could beat the defending champions and that definitely gave us extra self confidence going into the final. 

Real Madrid had the comfortable 73-68 advantage after 30 minutes. How key was the third quarter ending 7-2 run? The CSKA defense did a good job pressuring the Real Madrid guards and forcing some turnovers. 

That run was definitely key. Everybody on the bench kept saying that if we can get them to under 9 points then we will have a chance to win. That run gave us a huge boost. We have had similar games like that in the past like against Baskona and knew if we kept them under double digits that we could win. We knew that we hadn’t played our best basketball yet and it was still to come. We were fortunate that we showed our best basketball when it counted most against Real Madrid. 

How was the team moral after 30 minutes? Did you do anything out of the ordinary concerning your leadership skills?

I just did what I usually do which is keeping everyone positive and keeping the confidence up. I told them that we have been here before and that we could overcome the deficit. We knew going into the fourth quarter that we have been in that situation before and that we hadn’t played our best basketball yet that we still had a chance. It really helps is that we have so much experience on the team and guys that have won so many titles before. Guys have been in this position so often and just know what to do. 

How did head coach Dimitris Itoudis approach the few minutes between the third and fourth quarter. What kind of encouragement and tactical advice did he give the team?

He kept telling us that we hadn’t played our best basketball yet. We had been outhustled by Real Madrid and they had been beating us to the ball. They simply had been doing whatever they wanted with us. He made us realize that we were on the brink. This forced us to make the turnaround.

How vital was the huge offensive spark that Nando De Colo gave the team in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter? Could the game have become out of reach of winning had he not stepped up in a major allstar way?

Nando is our leader. I always tell him that we follow him. When he is at his best then the team is at their best. He was a little in foul trouble early and not playing his best, but then came his turnaround in the fourth and we followed him. His play was so important for us and showed just how important he is when he takes over. We followed his example and he led us to the win. 

How key was it keeping Spanish national player sniper Sergio Lull to 1/10 from outside? Was that one of the biggest key’s for the win?

He is such an explosive player and a guy that can score very much and help his team go on runs at any moment. We knew that we had to slow him down. We just tried to make everything difficult for him and make him have to work hard for everything. The stats showed that we made it hard for him, but it was a team effort. Slowing him down was a big reason for the win.

How proud were you of teammate Corey Higgins who iced valuable free throws at the end to the seal the win? He was one of the few guys that was with you during the2016 Euroleague win. Does an additional title like this cement that brotherhood feeling for life?


Corey was huge for us. We already had that special brotherhood feeling before this win. In my opinion he is one of the most underrated players in Europe. People really don’t give him the full credit for what he truly deserves for all the hard work and effort he puts in at both ends of the court. He has continued to develop each year. He went from being a role player in 2016 to being our best player in 2019. He leads us in many stats and is our most clutch player. 

In the final you beat Efes 91-83. This was a very hard fought victory for CSKA Moscow. They never ever let go and were always on your heels. What was key for getting the win over 40 minutes?

I believe key to getting past Efes was our ability to control the tempo, limiting their possessions and just putting them in difficult situations to score. They have a super balanced team with 8-9 players almost all averaging 10 points per game. We did a good job keeping them under average. We also did a good job putting more pressure on them causing more turnovers. 

Shane Larkin exploded for 59 total points in the 2019 Euroleague final 4. Do you feel like his explosive play and leading Efes into the final is his ticket back to the NBA?

I think that regardless of how he played in the 2019 Euroleague final 4 that he can play there. He has played well in Europe and also in the NBA. He is one of the most talented players in Europe. He has proven that with being able to make plays and lead his team to victories. 

In the big win over Real Madrid, the two stars Nando De Colo and Sergio Rodriguez exploded for 46 points combined, but in the final their combined points were shaved down to less than half at 21 points. What strides did the team character make in this Euroleague Final 4?

Our motto the whole season has been that we can’t depend on just one guy to do everything. We have a roster full of great players and have the deepest roster in Europe. We have that type of roster that when certain guys aren’t scoring then others will take over like a Corey or Will. Our roster was built that way that every guy can step up. 

With 21 seconds to go CSKA Moscow was leading 89-81 until Shane Larkin dropped two free throws. You knew you would win. What were some of your thoughts that were with you as the seconds were evaporating? Did the reflecting on your career go on later in the night?

I am always thinking about what could happen on the next possession. I was fully focused at that point to make sure that nothing could go wrong that might jeopardize our lead. I was most concentrated on holding the lead until the buzzer sounded. I can reflect on my career when I’m done playing.

As always you gave 180% in the minutes you got and had solid numbers at both ends of the court scoring 9 points in the final. How instrumental was your play in your opinion and what do you believe was your biggest asset that you gave the team?

I think my overall leadership and experience was my biggest asset. For me it has never been about the stats, but just to be able to make winning plays and put my team in the best position to win games. I am always focused on trying to help my team win. If that means setting a screen, getting a rebound, loose ball or block, I will do anything to turn the tables and help my team win the game.

You’re the first American ever to win four Euroleague titles. How does that make you feel and how do you feel when you are called a living legend?

I have been very blessed in my career to have been able to play in many Final 4’s and win many titles. I haven’t had time to reflect on my career yet. I’m still worrying about the next game. When the time comes, it will be nice to have a long reflection on my career.

Every Euroleague title has it’s own charm and memory for you, but if you had to rate your four Euroleague titles from 1-4 where would this fourth one be?

This fourth Euroleague title is the sweetest. It is always hard to rank titles, because everyone is difficult. As I get older I cherish every title more. You never know if you will get another opportunity. Being able to celebrate this title with my wife and kids made it so much sweeter. I will remember it my whole life. 

Does a fourth title like this wet your winning Euroleague appetite or have you noticed that the fire will be there and even stronger next season to win another one. 

I’m a competitor at heart. As soon as I finish this season, I will go into the off season and then will think about how we can repeat. I’m never content with just winning that last one. I’m always hungry to compete at the highest level and win. When that hunger is gone, then I know it will be time to hang it up. 

Are you the American Tom Brady of Euroleague basketball? Do you understand a guy like Brady who wants to continue to keep winning more with each new title. Is that continued Euroleague title winning inside you like a Brady?

God willing. I would love to play as long as possible. I will continue to work hard and let things take shape and play until the wheels fall off. Brady is one of the all-time greats in all sports. He is the Mount Rushmore of Football. To be mentioned or compared to him is very special and humbling.

Your head coach Dimitris Itoudis said this about you ‘The reason I have this man to my left [Kyle Hines] is that he’s a living legend. He’s a guy that I not only admire, but I also cannot express my gratitude. The way he treats all this group, united in the locker room when they’ve spent a lot of hours – this man is my left hand, my right hand, my stomach, my heart. He’s a living example. He’s ready to become a coach. He said it: ‘Guys, we’re finished. We’ve got to come over here in that gym and finish the job.’ That’s easy to say, it’s much more difficult to get it done and they did an outstanding job, the effort they put in, all these guys.’ With so many incredible players on the squad, how was a coach like him able to get the best out of each player?

We recognize his passion for the game and know how much he cares for us. He proves that each day. We bring the effort for him each day. We understand what he brings for us and want to bring the same effort for him. We have a very special bond with him and he with us.

How special is your relationship with Dimitris Itoudis? This is your fifth season playing for him. You have played for many coaches in your life, but how vital has he been in your development now as you continue to get older in your thirties?

Coach is very important to me. It has come to the point now that we don’t really have to talk to each other so much anymore. A lot of our communication is non-verbal. He has done a tremendous amount for my career on and off the court. He has done a lot to help me grow as a man as a leader. When I came to CSKA, I didn’t necessarily think that I could be a leader, but he helped me become vocal. 

You teammate Will Clyburn was named 2019 Euroleague MVP. You have spoken highly of him in the past. Could a performance like this put him on the radar of the NBA?

We saw the best of Will at the Euroleague Final 4. One saw the token of his game and he has proven each year that he gets better from every level he was at. I see his work ethic and attention to detail each day. I hope he stays with CSKA for a long time. Any team would be very lucky to have him on their roster. 

The season isn’t over yet as CSKA Moscow is battling for the VTB title which it has won 8 times and you 5 times. How can you follow up a Euroleague title. Will it take the team long to get back down to earth after the win?

The first day after winning we had that title hang over time. We relived the win, but after that we began to focus on the VTB playoffs. We are all professionals and want to defend our title. We know that it is never easy to win a title. We want to take full advantage and win it again. We are all concentrated and know that we have a job to do which is win the next one.

Have you been surprised about the season of the Milwaukee Bucks. They were knocked out by the Toronto Raptors to reach the NBA finals.

Not really. I’m a big Giannis fan. I know how hard he works and know how much he wants to be the greatest. I saw his desire on the court a few years ago

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Gladiator. It is one of the all-time greatest movies.

Thanks Kyle for the chat.

The weekend of May 24-26 was an incredible weekend for FC Bayern Munich in many ways, while for basketball powerhouse Alba Berlin at least in the youth department it was a time to forget and could have been classified as black Saturday. The weekend started off great on Friday as EasyCredit BBL Team FC Bayern Munich woke up in the fourth quarter after receiving a scare in Braunschweig by the pesky Lowen and won game two 84-74 to up their playoff series lead to 2-0 while on Saturday the FC Bayern Munich winning ways continued while for Alba Berlin their U-16 team led by ex German national player Vladi Bogojevic was upset by home team Science City Jena 82-70 where the overall team play and cleverness overwhelmed them and in the U-19 semi-final game they were knocked out by arch-rival FC Bayern Munich 81-76 where they couldn´t handle the ruthless domination by Croatian beast Matej Rudan who exploded for 27 points on 8/16 shooting leading his team back to the final which they handed won since 2017 in Frankfurt. To make matters worst for any anti Munich fans only about 170 kilometers away, FC Bayern Munich were able to celebrate again in another sport football where the soccer department won their 19^th cup and had endless celebrations until the wee hours of the morning. On the basketball JBBL and NBBL final game day FC Bayern Munich went into the two final games motivated, but both teams had to overcome two competitive and focused teams with Science City Jena and TSV Troesster Breitengussbach. In the first final in the JBBL U-16 game, the FC Bayern youths took control in the second half and explosive 36 point performance by German Benjamin Schroder helped them capture the title. While in the NBBL final, FC Bayern Munich met a feisty and strong team basketball orientated club TSV Troester Breitengussbach and pulled out an amazing 84-80 victory thanks to a heavenly explosive dunk by Sasha Grant and the leadership by Bruno Vrcic in crunch-time. After the huge victory, FC Bayern Munich cut down the ropes led by ex Ulm forward Jason George and were overjoyed with a great performance despite having some serious injuries and key players out including their starting point guard. Bruno Vrcic played his last NBBL game and saved his best for last leading his team with 22 points and making key baskets in crunch-time. “This was a hard game to win, but we stepped up as a team. You can´t win these games alone, but come together and we did that. We didn´t defend well in the first half, but did it better in the second half playing smarter. We didn´t play as hectic in the second half. I took control in the second half and we came out with the win”, stressed Bruno Vrcic. TSV TroesterBreitengussbach last won the NBBL title in 2013 and had the roster to do it again, but just couldn´t execute offensively as well as they had in the first half and made crucial defensive mistakes at the end. After the tough loss, top Estonian talent Henry Drell Explained what the difference was. “We played a pretty good game, but our offense collapsed at the end and they had more luck”, stressed Henry Drell.

                The NBBL had a super turnout for the final with 1,500 plus basketball fanatics and witnessed TSV Troester Breitengussbach race out to a quick 6-2 lead. Matej Rudan did get Munich´s first points, but the opponent than displayed their beautiful ball sharing and getting solid support from 17 year old 185cm guard Elias Baggette who played 28 Pro A games for Baunach this season made a lay in, 18 year old 198cm forward Brandon Tischler who had a 6 point 5 rebound effort against Nurnberg made a lay in on transition and 18 year old 195cm forward Moritz Plesscher also scored on transition. TSV Troester Breitengussbach kept the lead continuing to get consistent support from Brandon Tischler and Moritz Plescher as their intensity was something that the FC Bayern Munich defense could slow down. Henry Drell hit a trey, but all in all was kept well under warps by FC Bayern Munich. But FC Bayern Munich kept up and found a replacement for the consistent offensive support that Rudan  gave them in the semi-final but couldn´t in the early going in the name of Jason George. George who sprouts massive athleticism and is the team´s best all around player did a great job on the offensive glass getting three offensive rebounds in a row and got three baskets keeping his team close as 17-14. TSV Troester Breitengussbach did a good job keeping Rudan out of his offensive game and annoyed FC Bayern Munich with their nonstop transition game. FC Bayern Munich had problems getting good shots and couldn´t take advantage of good scoring opportunities. TSV Troester Breitengussbach made a little push in the last few minutes getting some added support from Henry Drell who averaged 13,0ppg in the German Pro A with Baunach last season and got a last second trey from Baggette as TSV Troester Breitengussbach led  25-18 after one quarter. “It was great seeing how well prepared TSV Troester Breitengussbach was. I love how they share the ball and had this great ball movement. FC Bayern Munich played too simple. All I saw was feed the post, find the lifter or the side pick and roll”, stressed ex Dragons Rhondorf assistant coach Max Schwamborn.

                In the second quarter TSV Troester Breitengussbach continued to have the lead continuing to execute with ease on offense, but in the latter half of the quarter FC Bayern Munich made a furious come back to dead lock the game at 41-41 at the break. TSV Troester Breitengussbach started out the second quarter with a bang going on a 5-0 run to extend their lead to 30-20 as they got continued  great offense including a trey from Brandon Tischler, and a lay in from 19 year old 211cm, 103 kilo center Daniel Koppel who played for the Austrian U-18 national team. FC Bayern Munich continued to not be able to execute their offense the way they wanted to, but got continued good production from 2018 Albert Schweitzer winner Jason George who rattled down his fourth offensive rebound and put back in the game. FC Bayern Munich then got a lightening 6-0 run to cut TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s lead to 30-26. In the run, FC Bayern Munich got added production from Jason George as he made a soft floater, a floater from 2017 NBBL winner Bruno Vrcic and a lay in from 17 year old 204cm center Mohamed Sillah from Sierra Leon who has only been playing basketball since one and a half years. TSV Troester Breitengussbach lost some intensity in the run while FC Bayern Munich finally calmed  down and created better offensive scoring opportunities and also took something from TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s play book getting some transition baskets. Then came the big moment of Daniel Koppel who finished with 5 points and three blocks. He made a lay in in down low in traffic and blocked top players Rudan and Kilian Binapfel giving TSV Troester Breitengussbach the 33-26. FC Bayern Munich slowly began making their comeback doing a fine job getting to the free throw line and got a sweet catch and pop jumper from Matej Rudan who recently scored 26 points and grabbed 18 boards against Partizan Belgrad at the 2019 Adidas Next Generation tournament and a runner from Vrcic cutting TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s advantage down to 37-34. TSV Troester Breitengussbach wasn´t defending badly, but FC Bayern Munich made the most of their opportunities even if it meant hitting tough shots. Drell kept some added space between both teams with a lay in extending TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s lead to 39-34. FC Bayern Munich now was riding on their experience of their two captains Vrcic and Binapfel as they scored cutting TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s lead to 39-38. Brandon Tischler then made a key steal and coast to coast sprint and lay in for the 41-38 lead, but Jason George hit a clutch trey in the closing seconds dead locking the contest at 41-41 at half-time. “FC Bayern Munich played more aggressive and did a good job with second chances and Jason George was key for Munich making their come back. TSV Troester Breitengussbach had too many easy misses and free throws”, stressed ex Dragons Rhondorf assistant coach Max Schwamborn.

                In the third quarter FC Bayern Munich really turned the game around and controlled the play on the court, but could never shake TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s away as they stayed on their back door steps. FC Bayern Munich came out strong going on a 4-0 run to extend their lead to 45-41 as they scored in the paint from Jason George and Matej Rudan also flashed his brilliant athleticism getting a bucket. Elias Baggette who has those piercing green eyes and sometimes reminds one of a Steph Curry with his looks, but also with his quickness and style on the court made a pretty basket as he picked his spot in the paint, made a stutter step and then sank the pull up jumper as if it was the easiest thing in the world. This shot temporarily slowed down the FC Bayern Munich run, but the 2017 NBBL champion then struck back again with an annoying 6-0 run to extend their lead to 51-43. Rudan led the run with two buckets as he made a lay in and picture perfect step back jumper almost as pretty as his shot in the semi-final against Alba Berlin. The run was fortified by a Grant runner. TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s was exerting much energy, but still had much left in their tank as they continued to fight back with success. Basketball is a game of runs and TSV Troester Breitengussbach demonstrated that cruising on a 7-3 run to sneak back into the game. In the run, TSV Troester Breitengussbach got valuable support from 17 year old 200cm forward Leon Brcic who has the Croatian/Austrian citizenship and averaged 7,4ppg and 4,6rpg in the NBBL this season leading up to the weekend as he brought severe energy from the bench. The big forward scored two baskets, made a key rebound and gave intensity on the defensive end. Brandon Tischler also hit a runner in the run. TSV Troester Breitengussbach raised their intensity and found other options as FC Bayern Munich keyed in more on Drell taking away his offensive touches. Vrcic continued to take responsibility and take charge on offense scoring twice giving FC Bayern Munich the 57-52 advantage. But TSV Troester Breitengussbach continued to execute and loiter around on FC Bayern Munich´s heels getting free throws from Drell and a clutch three pointer. FC Bayern Munich also were able to keep their lead getting  a huge offensive rebound from Sillah and put back and Grant lay in to lead 61-59. FC Bayern Munich closed out the third quarter with a Vrcic  runner to lead 63-59. “Both team´s were at eye level. It went back and fourth and we were unable to break away”, stressed 2019 NBBL MVP Bruno Vrcic.

                In the fourth quarter TSV Troester Breitengussbach turned the game around again regaining the lead, but FC Bayern Munich never gave up and came back and would turn the game back to their favor. TSV Troester Breitengussbach came out red hot going on a brutal 9-0 run to steal the lead back 68-63. In the run it was Henry “Mr clutch” Drell who scored 7 of the 9 TSV Troester Breitengussbach points and just dominated like no other. He understood that he had to take responsibility and FC Bayern Munich allowed him to. He refrained from displaying his three and scored twice in the paint with penetration and nailed a jumper while Baggette used his superior basketball eye Q scoring over a handicaped Matej Rudan who had to hold back on defense as he had four fouls. Rudan then hit  a free throw, but TSV Troester Breitengussbach struck again with a Plescher three extending TSV Troester Breitengussbach´s lead to 71-64. TSV Troester Breitengussbach was back to being able to play their controlled offense while FC Bayern Munich lost intensity and just couldn´t find back to their strong play of the third quarter. FC Bayern Munich head coach Andreas Wagner who knows about performing under pressure as he has helped teams like Nordlingen and Vechta move from the Pro A to the BBL didn´t show any signs of losing his composure on the sidelines, but stayed calm as crunch-time was approaching. FC Bayern Munich finally got out of their rut and showed again why basketball will always be a game of runs as the turned they game around to their favor going on a key 15-2 run breaking the back of TSV Troester Breitengussbach to lead 79-73. In the run they got crucial support from their captain Bruno Vrcic who upped his intensity scoring two huge baskets. The first basket was also the first field goal for FC Bayern Munich in the fourth quarter at the 5.03 minute mark. His second hoop was probably his most prettiest of the game as he came from the left wing  and made a reverse lay up under 2-3 TSV Troester Breitengussbach players using the glass to his advantage. Rudan also continued to be a vital part of their success hitting a huge trey to tie the game at 73-73. Rudan continued to hold back on defense on account of four fouls and on offense was a spark with his versatile play. “Rudan is such an important player for us. He can play the positions 1-4. He has had problems this season with foul trouble, but he really took responsibility today. I always keep telling him that even if you are in foul trouble just keep your head up and keep playing. He was very controlled in the fourth quarter”, stressed 2019 FC Bayern Munich MVP Bruno Vrcic.

                           Then came the deciding play and most spectacular play of the game. Sasha Grant who was born in Sardenia, Italy and lived four years in Coventry, England showed what true athleticism and basketball power is. The 17 year old 198cm kid hasn´t played basketball for a long time and when you look at his body you wouldn´t wonder why. He has the body of a bull and played rugby and lacrosse in England and came quite late to basketball. He showed his moments during the game on offense and defense, but he kept his absolute best for last. Vrcic had the ball and found a cutting Grant coming from the  right wing and he jumped and flew to the court jamming the ball down with both hands. The dunk will surely be remembered in NBBL circles for centuries. The dunk was great and memorable, but at the same time he also came down hard on a TSV Troester Breitengussbach player. This resulted in a technical handed down to TSV Troester Breitengussbach due to arguing the call  as FC Bayern Munich sunk two free throws for the 77-73 lead. “I was trying to find our center, but he was covered, but then I saw Grant and threw him the ball and he jumped to heaven. That dunk gave me goose bumps”, smiled Bruno Vrcic. Sillah closed out the run with an easy lay in off the perfect lob pass from Vrcic. TSV Troester Breitengussbach totally got away from their offensive game in this phase as they couldn´t cope with the fierce aggressiveness of  FC Bayern Munich while they also were unable to make stops as FC Bayern Munich was playing their best offensive basketball of the game which was fueled by the intensity of Vrcic. TSV Troester Breitengussbach had 1,32 minutes to play and tried a comeback getting free throws from N Tischler and Bulic, but FC Bayern Munich also supplied a basket from Rudan for the 81-77 advantage with 27 seconds to go. Then the game look decided as B Tischler made a bad turnover, but TSV Troester Breitengussbach stayed strong and forced FC Bayern Munich to a turnover getting the ball back. They were rewarded with a huge trey from Moritz Plescher with 3,7 seconds remaining cutting FC Bayern Munich´s lead to 81-80. But the two FC Bayern Munich captains Vrcic and Binapfel closed the door on TSV Troester Breitengussbach for good with free throws securing the 84-80 win and title. Key for the success in the crunch-time was the massive leadership of the two veterans Vrcic and BInapfel. “The difference at the end was our defense and the free throws that we made and they didn´t. We also didn´t allow any easy baskets.  Me and Killian play at a high level and we have so much experience that playing in these situations makes it a lot easier. We are able to see the many options better than others”, stressed Bruno Vrcic. FC Bayern Munich was led by Bruno Vrcic with 22 points while Matej Rudan added 20 points. Jason George contributed 15 points and Killian Binapfel had 13 points. TSV Troester Breitengussbach was led by Henri Drell with 21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Brandon Tischler added 13 points while Nicholas Tischler and Elias Baggett contributed 11 points a piece. FC Bayern Munich shot 49% form the field and 14% form outside and had 42 rebounds and 17 turnovers while TSV Troester Breitengussbach shot 48% from the field and 41% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Elijah Allen is a 29 year old 195cm swing man from Columbus, Ohio that completed his seventh professional season and first season with the Tigers Tuebingen averaging 8.8ppg, 3,5rpg and 1,2apg. Last season he played with the Kirchheim Knights in the Pro A averaging 9,8ppg, 5,0rpg and 1,6apg. In the 2016-2017 season he helped Gotha move up to the easyCredit BBL averaging 5,7ppg, 2,0rpg and shot 42,3% from outside. He is one of the few guys that has gone from the German Regionaliga to the BBL He played two seasons for Lich and in his last season there played 27 games averaging 13.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 69.3%. He started his basketball career at NW Missouri St. (NCAA2) in 2007 where he played until 2011 playing a total of 103 NCAA games and as a senior played 26 games: 14.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.1apg, FG: 44.8%, 3Pts: 23.1%, FT: 74.8%. He came to Germany in 2012 and played his first two seasons for the VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) and in the 2013-2014 season played 26 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 68.4%. In the 2014-2015 season for the Licher Basket Baeren he played 28 games: 10.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.5apg. He spoke to germanhoops.com after his season in Tuebingen.

Elijah thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and what will be the first restaurant that you will visit when you get off the plane when you visit the States this summer?


Hello Miles, Thanks for the interview. I am currently in Lollar, Germany spending time with my family. I am not sure if I will have time to make it back to the states this summer. I am currently working on my business ProgressYourGame.com basketball summer league and trainings.

Has the NCAA Madness taken your mind off not reaching the playoffs with the Tigers Tuebingen?

Not really. I didn’t watch many NCAA games this year.

The club wanted to get back to the easyCredit BBL. How did you experience this season in Tuebingen with the team and fans? Is the disappointment high that the BBL won’t be back next season for the team?

Tubingen as a city and club were awesome. The location of Tubingen was great because there was good shopping and places to visit within a short 30-40 min drive.

One can say it was a tale of two seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. In 2018 things didn’t go well, but with the arrival of Georg Kampf in mid January the team was reborn. What was your summary of the season of Tuebingen?

We definitely had our ups and downs this season. The league being very even this year did not help things also. Defensively we gave up to many easy baskets the whole season. We started to find a identity with Georg Kampf but came up short in the end.

Before Georg Kampf came on board the club had a disappointing record of 7-11. What do you feel were the main reasons then for the club not being able to have more success?

I personally liked playing for Sascha a lot. We lost to many games that we weren’t supposed to lose. We had many unnecessary losses and bad defensive outings. Sascha deserved a better effort from us players. That’s the tough part about coaching. You can be a good coach but if the players don’t perform when the time counts then ultimately you have a chance of losing your job. Sascha is a good coach and will get another opportunity to prove that. 

Ex head coach Aleksandar Nadjfeji was a legend in the BBL as a player and had had coaching experience as an assistant. Last season he had misfortune of not keeping Tuebingen in the BBL and this season he was let go. Is he one of those classic examples of a guy that is simply better suited to be an assistant than a head coach?

I do not think so at all. Not everything is Sascha’s fault. I wouldn’t judge him on that. At the end of the day it’s the players responsibility to step on the court and do their job. A coach is just there to guide and give motivation along the way. I think he did a good job of that. Just unfortunate the result.

Head coach Georg Kampf is one of those coaches that is very hard nosed, won’t take crap form anyone and has his own way of getting his message across. How vital was his presence for the turnaround of the team?

I think it was good for us. We had some very hard and long trainings. Instead of focusing on details of other teams, we focused more on us and our execution of performing well offensively. This worked for us and helped turn things around.

What do you feel changed with the arrival of Georg Kampf? The team defended better, but also had games where they gave up many points and the offense seemed to score more.

I think us playing big helped changed things a lot. We basically played with two 5 men most of the game. This helped us score inside and control the paint defensively. We did not focus on defense as much as offense. We just wanted to outscore our opponent.

Do you feel like if Georg Kampf had been brought in a month earlier that you would have made the playoffs or did the late season loses against PS Karlsruhe and the Artland Dragons cost you the season.

Maybe it would have but who knows right? The losses to Karlsruhe and Artland were just unnecessary. In control the whole game and then lose the final seconds from errors that we forced.

Obviously, the Tigers Tuebingen want to get back to the BBL as soon as possible. Despite not having been able to accomplish it this season, what positives did the season bring the organization?

As a club I think Tuebingen is a great place to play. The club treats the players great and with much respect. I think the club will have great success in the future. Its great that they have Enosch Wolf coming back. That gives the team a nice big to build the team around. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. American Reed Timmer had a great rookie season. After being his teammate for a season, does he have the talent and if so is he ready for the BBL or is another season in the Pro A or a season in Austria more beneficial for his development?

It was pretty fun playing with Reed. At times it did not feel as if he was rookie at all. He plays extremely confident. As far as development goes, I think a lower BBL team would be a great fit for him. He is the type of player that has a ton of room to grow. I expect him to have a long and successful career.

Even if the team didn’t make the playoffs, how did the young guys profit most from 30 year old veteran Tyler Laser? What player do you feel gained the most from his presence?

Having the opportunity to compete against him every day in practice will only make the young guys better. I think Nemanja learned the most out of everyone. Just the experience enough was good for him.

German Besnik Bekteshi has been around for ages, but is only 26 years old. How did his game develop further and is he still a guy that could make more of an impact in the BBL down the road?

I remember Besnik from when I used to train with the 46ers. I felt we had a comfortable relationship because of it. Besnik really shot the ball well this year. He is a good player who doesn’t make many mistakes. He gives you offense and is a good defender. I will not be surprised to see him back in the BBL.

German Enosh Wolf had a very strong season. One could say his break out season as a professional. How did you see the NCAA champion develop further this season and is he a late bloomer and still talented enough for another BBL run?

I really wasn’t surprised by the type of season Enosch had. He is a good player and is always efficient in the minutes that he plays in. He had a bigger role in Tubingen and could show what he could do. I definetly think he could play BBL. He can shoot and play well around the basket with a soft touch. There is always room for 7 footers that can play!

How raw is Nemanja Nadjfeji? You saw him play every day. Did the absence of his father affect him or is he still on a good way as he continues to develop as a player?

Nemanja will be a good player. He has an old mans game at a young age. He always made plays in practice that showed his talent level. He does some things that just can’t be taught. I think he is on a good way. I think its important he just keeps focusing on getting better. He has a bright future.

Let’s talk about your game. With Tuebingen you averaged 9,0ppg, 3,6rpg and 1,2apg. How content were you with your season?

I feel I can score a bit more with a bigger role offensively. I’m always doing things that don’t particularly show up on the score sheet. I think I showed that I can score and be consistent in the second part of season. Switching from playing position 4 to 3 helped me show that. I think I can do a lot more offensively and defensively playing the 3 position. 

Your scoring average was pretty identical to last season with Kirchheim. Do you feel like you could become that player to average double figures in the Pro A if you were to get more of a central scoring role?

I can score the ball and I’m very confident about that. Averaging double figures is very attainable. I probably could have this year. At times I feel it’s not just about statistics. The last two seasons I played with two very ball dominate guards. Both being in the top in the league in scoring. Scoring many points is all about what situation you are put into. At the end of the day I just want to do what it takes to win.

In our last interview you stated this about your time with Kirchheim. ‘ I think mentally I grew the most. When tough times came I handled it better than I would in the past’. How was it with Tuebingen. Did the experience in Kirchheim help you with the tough times with Tuebingen?

I think it helped a lot. I basically had the identical season as I had last year. Missing playoffs by 1 game both years. Been very tough to deal with after having helped Gotha move up two years ago. 

After shooting over 40% from outside last season with Kirchheim, you shot only 32% this season and took the least three’s since the 2014-2015 season in Lich. Were disappointed with your three accuracy this season?

As a competitor I always think I could have did better. I did not shoot that many 3s this season.

In your last interview you stated that last summer you would do this. ‘I will focus on watching film and trying to learn the game more. It is a never ending process’. How do you feel did you develop as a player further with Tuebingen?

I think it helped me a lot. I see it most on the defensive end. Defensively I felt I made a lot of big plays in key situations.

What was your personal highlight? Possibly your 19 point game in the win against Phoenix Hagen or your 18 point effort in the win over Trier?

I don’t have a game that really sticks out. These games were good but always room for improvement.

Who was the toughest player that you battled this season in the Pro A?

I would have to say Shy Ely. Kid is tough and experienced.

What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Tuebingen or will your basketball journey take you to a new place again?

I just want to improve and win. I am not sure where I will play next.

You have a long summer ahead of you. On what things will you be working on most in the basketball lab as you get ready for that next opportunity?

This summer I will be working on different finishes at the rim and also adding more of a mid-range pull up to my game. I think these two things will be key going into next season.

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s

Hunter Henry, John Hawkins, Deshawn Cooper, Daniel Doerr, Dane Watts, 

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA? 

He has the tools to be. Has a long way before he catches up to Dirk.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time? 

Not surprised he thinks this at all. 

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Its hard to argue that point. Jordan gets the edge because he changed the culture also.

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season?

I think its amazing what he has done throughout his career. If he wins in his 7th season that would be special.

What was the last movie that you saw? 

The siege of Jadotville

Thanks Elijah for the chat.