Montrael Scott is a 25 year old 190cm guard playing in his fourth professional season and first with the VfL Sparkassenstars Bochum (Germany-ProB). Last season he played with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProB) playing 27 games Score-3 (18.8ppg), 7.0rpg, Assists-5 (5.6apg), 2.1spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 72.2%. He played his first two professional seasons in Kosovo for Golden Eagle Ylli (Kosova-SuperLeague) playing 15 games: Score-2 (20.8ppg), 4.7rpg, Assists-2 (5.5apg), Steals-1 (3.6spg), FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 70.0% and for KB Trepca Mitrovice (Kosovo-SuperLeague) playing 27 games averaging 14.0ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 68.4%;and played 9 Balkan League games averaging 13.6ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.3%. He began his basketball career with Prairie View A&M (NCAA) in 2011 playing a total of 124 NCAA games and as a senior played 29 games averaging 15.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 74.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Montrael thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your second season in Germany after playing your first two seasons in Kosovo. Has Germany become like a second home for you or could Kosovo give Germany a good run for the money?

Man that’s a tough decision but I’m going to have to say Germany has become like a second home for me. Mostly because of the country itself. From living in Essen last year to now Bochum, I have been shown nothing but love.

Congrats on reaching the playoffs with the VfL AstroStars Bochum (Germany-ProB). How thrilled are you have made this achievement after having the tough season last year with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets where you had great stats, but the team didn’t perform well? 

Man words can’t even describe how excited I am to achieve one of my goals for this season. Yet, it’s still work to be done and a lot of basketball left. Last season we were great before Christmas break and after we lost a key player. Those guys that I played with in Essen were by far great guys and even better teammates. We just fell short. Now this year, I’m looking to help Bochum make a deep run in playoffs. 

It was an exciting last game day in the Pro B North. Bochum snuck in with a 81-79 win against the Sixers. How did you survive the last minute and what was key for getting the win? 

Game was a great one and hard fought by our ball club. Survived the last minute by locking in on defense and getting stops. The key to winning was our IDENTITY!! Last game, we got back to that and we came out on top. We still have work to be done as well.

The VfL AstroStars Bochum (Germany-ProB) had a solid 9-5 record at the Christmas break, but went 2-6 after that. What did the team get away from in this phase? The team gave up 80 points or more in each game. 

We basically just got away from who we were and what we were known best to do. Our identity and our aggression is what we got away from. Also, having fun and being confident in ourselves. Just the minor things are what we got away from but we are back now. 

Do you feel the last regular season win and new coaches with Felix Engel and Petar Topalski will give the team continued added energy as it plays the playoffs? 

First Lets not discredit the work and job Gary Johnson did from day one with this team and putting us in the position to be great. Now with Felix and Petar being the new coaches, nothing’s changed but us being the team we were when we had the great start to the season. With their coaching and enthusiasm, we are going to have hell of energy because our goal was to make playoffs and fight to move up to Pro A. 

You start in the playoffs against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. How excited are you to playing against a team that has many young German talents and what will be key to getting the win? 

I don’t have much knowledge on them but Bochum did play them first round last year so I’m eager to play against them. I have watched film on them and they play very fast plus have high intensity. Key to winning is just us playing together and playing full 40 minutes of Bochum basketball. Our identity will be the key for us during our playoff run. 

It is rare to see Spaniards in the German leagues and even rarer to see two Spaniards on one team. How important have your teammates Alberto Del Hoyo and Eduard Arques been for the success and what have you appreciated most about their play? 

Al and Edu are very important to the success we’ve had thus far. Al is the spark plug when we need a quick 3 or slash to the goal. Edu is in my eyes one of the best foreign bigs in the league. He can score around the basket whenever. Love those guys like their my own brothers. It’s always amazing to see them play because Spanish guys play with a different style of play and it is fun to watch.

How much did you appreciate the game of Felix Engel? How much of a void has his season ending been for the team on the court and how has he mastered his new job coaching as of now? 

Felix was one of the main reasons I chose to sign with Bochum this year. I watched him all last season and love his game plus his intensity a lot. There is a void there most certainly because you need that primary playmaker on the court at times. So at times, it shows in our games when we need that but I do my best to fill that void when I can. He has the coaching mastered from his coaching career with the young kids but he brings a different vibe and he can relate to us as well. So I think he had and will master it plus help us during this playoff push. 

How important has Mark Gebhardt been this season and how will his creating continue to be vital with guys like Felx Engel departed and Marco Buljevic injured? 

Mark is one of our captains and best defender. He plays smart and he does the little things that most people don’t even notice. He’s not afraid of the challenge and he can also make himself plus his teammates better. He’s sort of like a Draymond Green caliber player that we love having. 

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard that can fill the stat sheet at ease. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit that description? 

I’ve always been asked this and could never really pin point a particular player. If I had to take a guess, I would say Jrue Holiday. I like his game and how calm he plays the game. He also can score at ease but what compares me to him is his ability to get his teammates the ball to score as well. Love his game for sure.

You never averaged more than 1,9apg in the NCAA, but as a pro was second best in the Kosovo league in assists and had extremely high assist averages. How do you explain that rise in your passing stats? 

Great you asked that but I’m a natural point guard. Coming into PV, I was recruited to be a point guard and that’s what I did. First two years I didn’t play as much as I liked but when I did, I played well. My rise basically just comes from me having that point guard IQ and getting my teammates in positions to score. When you can score at will, a lot of teams focus their defense on stopping you and that’s when I get to show my passing ability. I’m a natural point guard but since junior year of college, I became an effortless scorer!! 

As a junior at Prarie View (NCAA) you shot 40% from outside, but haven’t done it yet as a professional. Is crafting your three pointer one of the big areas that you continue to work on? 

Yea my three point percentage hasn’t been where I would like I to be the season thus far. It’s all about being confident and shooting it with ease. If I get hot, It can be deadly for opposing teams. I do continue to work on it during the season but mostly off season. That will be one of my main focuses this coming up off season too. 

You work hard and play efficient at both ends of the court. Is defense a big part of your game that will always get your offense going on those night where your offense hasn’t taken off yet? 

Defense is a big part of my game and I don’t take it lightly. It is a key part of my game especially when I’m having a difficult game. If and when I want too, I can be one of the best defenders in Germany Pro B. Defense wins championships and if I can help my team with my intensity of defense, IM ALL FOR IT!!! 

Last season you played with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProB) averaging 18.8ppg, 7.0rpg, Assists-5 (5.6apg), 2.1spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 72.2%. Despite the season not being good in the wins column, how do you feel did your game grow another step? 

I feel my game just kept getting better and better. I knew going into the games, I would have to score and do whatever it took just for us to even have a chance to win. My teammates trusted in me to carry them and that’s what I did. I just turned into a scoring machine that knew regardless what happened, I was going leave everything I had on the court for my team. 

Was your 38 game explosion in the 107-103 win over Cuxhaven last season one of your best games as a professional player? And do you rub that win in Florian Wendeler’s face at times this season to give him a hard time?

I would say it was probably the second best while in Germany as seeing I had a 30 point triple double in playdowns as well. Also I had a 30 point triple double while in Kosovo too. So I think it ranks Top 5. Hahaha we’ve spoken about it maybe once or twice that’s about it. Flo is my guy. 

You played two seasons in Kosovo. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home? 

I think I didn’t realize I was so far away from home until maybe like the second month. I wouldn’t say it was tough but it was mind blowing in a sense.

How important was it having American Landon Atterberry as a teammate as a rookie. He was also a rookie with Golden Eagle Ylli (Kosova-SuperLeague). How comforting was it having him and not being alone your rookie season? 

Me and Landon were roommates until he left after Christmas. It was comforting much because our flights were together as well. We still talk to this day and see how one is doing in their season.

You played at Prairie View A&M (NCAA) from 2011-2015 playing 124 NCAA games. What was your biggest achievements there? Possibly reaching the SWAC final twice in 2013 and 2014? 

My biggest accomplishments were scoring over 1000 points in my career. Another one would be helping my team reach the Swac Final twice. Oh yeah, Me and my team went on a 7 game win streak which was one of the best in history. It’s many more accomplishments but those are just a few. Let’s not forget I graduated while being a student athlete!!!

You were able to improve your scoring average each season. How do you feel did you mature as a player in the four years there? 

My first two years were rough because I knew I was good but college being good can only get you so much. The summer before going into my junior year, I just went home and was in the gym literally playing every day. I would go shoot in the morning and in the evening play pick up. It also was more of me being confident and knowing I was going to be one of the main leaders/scorers on my team. 

Even though you lost the game to UCLA as a junior 95-71, you led all scorers with 27 points and held your own against the Wear brothers, Bryce Alford, Zach Levine and Norman Powell. What memories do you have of that game and do you feel like people took notice of you after that game?

Memories I have from the game was just being able to compete against those caliber players and just see where my game was compared to them. Also getting recognition from the Pac 12 commentators who actually felt and knew I could play amongst those guys. Also got to talk to a few NBA greats that game too. 

How did head coach Byron Rimm the second groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Prairie View (NCAA) 

What many don’t know is my relationship with Coach Rimm was bigger than basketball. He was that father figure I needed away from home. He always believed in me and my teammates every game we played. He gave me the tools and knowledge I needed to become a pro. To this day, we still talk and remember when I was at PV.

Who won a one on one in practice back in the day you or Tre Hagood?

If you ever wanted to see two high intense guys go at it day in day out in practice, we were those guys. Tre pushed me to be a better scorer I am. We had our battles but I think he may be up in the win column on me as of now. Talk to him almost every day now

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that is in the NBA now? 

Pierre Jackson or Zach Levine.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose? 

Tre Hagood, Reggis Onwukamuche, Nick Tufegdzich, Louis Munks, and John Brisco

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

-Lebron James -Larry Bird -Kobe -Shaq 

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James? 

My personal opinion is Lebron is the GOAT!! Why I say that is because I’ve watched Lebron literarily since he started in the league. Never discredit MJ game nor his accomplishments but in my era, The GOAT is Lebron!!!

What was the last movie that you saw? –

Equalizer 2

Thanks Montrael for the chat.

At the beginning of 2019, the Dragons Rhondorf were preparing for the stretch run of the season and with the misfortune of the way the season was going many have been secretly dreaming of ex player Kameron Taylor to magically swoop in from Hungary to save the season. They were at the bottom of the standings with the RheinStars Cologne only three seasons ago both in the Pro A and now both seriously very close to moving down to no man´s land of the Regionalliga. Back in January, it was 10 to midnight for the Dragons Rhondorf and already then hope of a massive turn around to occur was dimmer than the light at the end of the tunnel for the Phoenix Suns this season. Dragons Rhondorf supporters had hoped for some kind of a miracle to happen, but instead of witnessing that huge turnaround where all of a sudden every German player had possessed special new abilities that would help the team´s two stars Zygimantas Riauka and Kwan Waller turn their season around was about as far away as it is seeing any other rookie stealing the rookie of the year award from Luka Doncic. The team went 2-6 the rest of the way and could of even only got one win out of it had they not received some big time help from the basketball God in the last 10 seconds of the 88-87 home victory against the Basketball Lowen Erfurt where they missed 4-5 shots and Rhondorf escaped with a mega hard fought win and their biggest of the season. Now with the regular season history, the fate of the Dragons Rhondorf lies in their own abilities and willingness to achieve something that won´t be easy to accomplish. It isn´t 10 to midnight now, but 10 seconds before midnight as 6 games decide whether the Dragons Rhondorf play in Frankfurt or Fellbach next season. The only thing that can save them now are numerous wins and out dueling Wurzburg in the last weeks to produce some kind of Dragon Dome miracle.

                The 2018-2019 Pro B South playdowns commence on March ninth where the last four clubs of the standings face off against each other twice in hopes of being one of the two best teams at the end of the six games. Just a few weeks ago, fans in the Bavarian city Coburg were already in playoff mode, but a nasty four game losing streak at the end of the regular season denied them entrance. BBC Coburg arrive in the Playdowns with a record of 9-13 and 18 points. Wurzburg begin with a 8-13 record and 15 points while the two dark horses with minimal chances are the Dragons Rhondorf and RheinStars Cologne with both sharing a 5-17 record and 10 points. Two years ago, the Dragons Rhondorf were in the playdowns and perhaps not in as bad shape as they are now with their record, but they were able to stick together then and save their season. History is on their side, but will they be able to play their most consistent basketball of the season now when the pressure is greatest? Perhaps having that new feeling of starting over at 0 like the playoff teams have will motivate them for special doings.

                Even if the shabby 2-6 record in 2019 won´t impress anyone, if they would have had a few more bounces, stops and hustle plays go their way, they could have saved themselves some stress and started in the Playdowns with at least 7 wins and made their battle against Wurzburg look a lot more bearable. There were some winnable games in that time and games they let slip away like the loss in Frankfurt and the tough 74-70 loss at home against the rising Giessen Rackelos who could be one of those big surprises in these playoffs should they have their complete roster to disposable. Inconsistency was one of the big problems that plagued the Dragons Rhonndorf all season long. There was no better example then the last two regular season games. In their second to last regular season home game, they welcomed ratiopharm Ulm´s talented farm team Orange Academy and got hammered 89-73 and it wasn´t so much as if they were back in pre season and couldn´t run a proper set which can happen early in a season, but instead their performance resembled more like a refusal to want to get the victory. After the loss captain Joe Koschade remained as professional as possible  and tried to explain as best as he could why the club could play the way they did. ““We all fought hard and are trying all we can to stay in the league. Our problem is when the opponent goes on a run, we tend to lose our nerves and play hectic.  Every guy tries to do too much and play one on one instead of staying calm and playing team basketball. We had some good phases on defense, but it needs to be more consistent”, stated Dragons Rhondorf guard Joe Koschade. A week later in the last regular season game against Wurzburg, it was like night and day. One could have thought, the team would totally collapse under pressure in their first do or die game of three, but instead they gave their best defensive performance of the season. How can one figure that? After the victory Dragons head coach Thomas Adelt explained that the team had made the needed hustle plays. It also helped that the Dragons Rhondorf played defense with passion combined with solid execution helping spark and carry the offense that after a big second quarter would never look back again. This is the type of basketball that the Dragons Rhondorf have to play. Having the lead and not having to always exert energy in come backs something that has dominated their season.

                Perhaps having been able to play one of their best games of the season against their biggest foe Wurzburg was the perfect timing for the Dragons Rhondorf as they begin the playdowns. The Dragons Rhondorf have a 1-1 record against all three teams. They beat the Rheinstars on the road and lost a tough 89-85 game at home before Christmas a game they let slip away. They beat Coburg and Wurzburg at home. They will need to have the heroics of their two best players Zygimantas Riauka and Kwan Waller in every game if they seriously want to have a chance in every game. Waller has been the team´s best scorer since December 15^th while Zygimantas Riauka has continued to be the work horse, but some teams figured him out better the second time around and were able to slow him down a bit more. But the double double beast will be ready for the playdowns and deliver as if it was his last games. The club obviously will need to rely more on their German role players. Consistent scoring and contribution has also been a sore spot this season for the team. Julian Jasinski has had most of the bright moments from the German players, but guys like Bo Meister, Yannick Kneesch and Alex Moeller are able to produce offensively, but will need to do more than they have. The question is will they be able to heighten their game now with added adrenaline when it counts most? Last but not least they have to play defense. After winning his first of six NBA titles in 1991, Michael Jordan had a simple explanation why the Chicago Bulls had won. Jordan let the world know that defense wins championships. Well if that is so, then why shouldn´t defense win the playdowns. You don´t need to be the most talented to play defense, but just play with extreme effort and passion and good things will happen. The Dragons Rhondorf begin in Cologne and then come home against Wurzburg in their second big test in only a few weeks time and then play Coburg at home. If they can have a positive record after three games, then they will be able to go into the last three games of the playdowns with games in Wurzburg and Coburg with self confidence. There is so much history with this organization, have always played in the German second Bundesliga and have faithful fans that most likely wouldn´t be able to cope with a Regionalliga demotion that it would be a huge shame if they got demoted. The next weeks will reveal just how much character the Dragons Rhondorf have and if a second Bundesliga era ends or if next season one will be able to see the big Fraport Skyliner German talents like Len Schoormann and Maxi Begue return back to the Dragon Dome to display their growing athleticism.

Martin Zeno is a 33 year old 193cm forward from Sulphur, Louisiana playing his 11^th professional season and first with Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division). He has found a lot of experience having played in countries like Cyprus, Venezuela, Finland, France, and Romania. He played for legendary coach Bobby Knight at Texas Tech. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game in Bonn.

Martin thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Welcome to Germany. Is this your first time in Germany and what do you know in general about the country and it´s basketball?

 I haven’t played in Germany but I have friends and heard good things about the league. Plus I visited a few times too.

Your in your 11th professional season and not until the last two seasons had your first experience with international club play. Do you appreciate being able to play Fiba Europe Cup games a bit more as you get older?

Well I’ve played in the VTB league few years also Champions league then finally Fiba Europe Cup so I have some years with international play. I can say it has been a grind and challenge playing in those leagues because of the talent and travel.

You have spent most of your professional career and had your most success in Finland and Romania. What kind of experience has it been this season playing with Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division)?

 It’s been a different path this season because I was bought in to help the younger players and help to turn around the season so that’s been my focus since I have  been here.

Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) won the double in 2017 in Hungary, but have struggled this season in Hungary and in the Fiba Europe Cup. How tough has this season been for you being a player that has 5 titles on his resume?

 In league play we have struggled but I think we have a good team here. We had some coaches changes so we are working to head in the right path now. In Fiba we in the final 16 teams so we been doing alright in there.

How tough is it to swallow the fact that Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) belong to the best defensive teams in the Hungary A-Division, but are struggling in the standings?

 Its very hard to swallow that because we all want to win so bad but we as players just have to get out there and get it done. We are right there but just have to compete and finish.

In the Fiba Europe Cup Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) now meet the Telekom Baskets Bonn. The German team are the slight favorite on paper. What kind of game can we await and what will be key to getting the win?

We know it’s going to be hard fought game but we just have focus and stick with our game plan. We know they have a lot of talent and are well coached.

Let´s talk about your teammates. How key was the pick up of Spanish player Carlos Cabezas who has won just about everything with team Spain. Will his added leadership give the team an extra spark in the stretch run?

The experience and knowledge of the game has helped with our team. It’s been a pleasure to have a player like that.

How much of a pleasure has it been playing with American Allerik Freeman? The ex North Carolina State guard has needed no adjustment period as a rookie and come into his own. What have you really appreciated most about his game?

 The way he is always on attack mode and his ability to get to the rim and finish with contact. Plus he can shoot it a high percent from the three.

Let´s talk about your game. You have been a scorer your whole life. Could one say that scoring has always been in your blood?

 Well I can say I could score it but I cherish having been able to do other things too in order to help my teams I have played on.

You will be turning 34 this year. How would you describe Martin Zeno today in comparison to when you played in Finland from 2011-2013?

 I’m not as athletic as I once was. I can still get to my spots that I like. I can see my knowledge for the game I use it more now than when I was athletic.

Every player that is in his thirties has their own routine when it comes to how they keep staying motivated and keep improving their game. What have you been doing the most in the last few years to keep your game growing as you grow older?

I can say more improvement on the little things in my game which has helped it grow. Plus working to get to certain spots that I know I’m going to get too.

You had a three year break between winning your last two titles in Finland and winning your last two in Romania. What kind of feeling was it for you winning two titles in your 30´s?

 I cherish every title because they are hard to get and I have been be blessed to have 5.

How unique were winning the 2016 and 2018 Romanian titles for you? For both runs you came in mid season. Could one say that you made a special difference in the club getting the titles each time?

 In 2016 I did come in the middle of the season after I left Finland but it was great feeling to be the missing piece for a team that won the title. In 2018 I was there the whole season but I had an injury and came back right when the team needed me so that also was a great feeling.

Did you build a special bond with guys like Sean Denison and William Franklin in Romania who both made their mark early in their professional career in Germany and then went on to have success in other parts of the world.

 Yes, I have a great bond with them still. I talk and communicate still today with them. Some great teammates.

In Finland you were teammates with Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi. What did you appreciate most about him when separating character and his playing abilities?

 Jacob was very cool. He was very smart and knowledgeable that could shoot it.

You played a season with Denain ASC Voltaire (France-ProB) playing 40 games averaging 12.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 77.4%. What kind of experience was it playing in France and seeing a different culture and basketball?

 That’s the one season I wish I could repeat because we had a great team that just never came together. It was a season that I have learned from a lot. It was great to play in France.

You played with Nilan Bisons Loimaa (Finland-Korisliiga) from 2011-2013 winning two titles and being second and first in league scoring. How much fun was this time early in your career?

 It was great years because we were winning a lot plus I had some great teammates. They pushed me to go out there and play the way I did.

How vital were character guys Jeb Ivey and Kimmo Muurinen for securing that second title? Both guys are players any coach would die to have on their side.

I have great bond with Jeb still. We talk often and are checking on each other. But having both was key to our success that year because of their knowledge.

After being a rookie in Cyprus and playing in the D-League in your second season, you fell off the radar a bit in your third professional season playing in the ABA. How tough was this season for you and did you ever lose faith in the process?

I had to switch agents so we know how that goes so I had to get things back together but I never played in the ABA. I never lost faith but I know what I can do but it was just getting the right opportunity to show it.

You had a short stint with the Erie Bay Hawks (D-League). What memories do you have of the D-League then and how do you feel would you have developed had you arrived in the G-League in 2019 for the first time?

 Well it was a learned lesson there too. I learned the business of the basketball playing in the D-League. You can see that G-League is different now because the way the game is played.

As a rookie you played with Seastar Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division).  What kind of experience was that for you and what was your wake up call to being in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home?

 The wake up call there was seeing things that I had never seen and still haven’t until this day.

You played at Texas Tech(NCAA) from 2004-2008 playing a total of 130 NCAA games. You had a great career there. Was reaching the 2005 NCAA Sweet 16 your biggest accomplishment there?

 Well I had a lot of accomplishment that I achieved at Tech but that was one of my biggest ones. Just being in the history of school makes me feel very proud today.

Not many players have the luxury to say that they were able to learn under the guidance of legendary Bobby Knight. How did you learn to appreciate him as a mentor, coach, friend? Do you have a favorite Knight story?

I learned after I graduated was things he was telling us was more about life than basketball and helping you in the world today. Just being prepared for the unexpected. I have a lot of stories but it would take long time to tell it.

What memories do you have of Ron Ross? He had a long professional career and recently retired. How do you remember being influenced best from him as a freshman?

 Ron had a heart of gold and was a very tough player. Freshmen year just watching him work and work and then being a captain so having to deal with that was something I can say I appreciate.

You had a great junior season where you shot 43% from outside, but also a stellar senior year at Texas tech(NCAA). When you look back at your career are you a bit disappointed that a guy like you or Ron Ross weren´t noticed more by the NBA coming out as well as teams from higher leagues

 Well I can say that but you learn it´s a part of life so you just got to take it and learn from things like that. Everything in life happens for a reason.

How do you remember freshman John Roberson at Texas Tech(NCAA) when you were a senior? He also has had a great professional career. Do you remember being able to help him as he was learning the ropes?

 I knew he would be great shooter from day one but just tried to help him with being prepared for each game and just having a focus because he had the talent already.

How did head coach Bobby Knight groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Just had me prepared for any situation I got put in and being able to understand each situation that I would be put in.

Who won a one on one back in the day you or Ron Ross and you against John Roberson?

I think Ron and me played just a few times but can’t remember who won them. I never played John.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that is in the NBA

That is an easy question. It was Kevin Durant.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

 You came with an easy question and now a hard one. I have been blessed to play with a lot of great great teammates so that would hard to just pick 5.

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

 Hmmm….Kareem, Jordan, Russell, Wilt

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

 They never played against each other or in the same era so to me they are both the greatest in the era they played in.

What was the last movie that you saw?

 Aquaman

Thanks Martin for the chat.

                               The unnormal warm and pleasant temperatures in the last few days gave a warm smile to most people in Germany and some may have even thought it could have been mid April or something as normally that is the stretch run of the NBBL playoffs as the usual suspects like Alba Berlin and FC Bayern Munich were making the last game arrangements for the yearly NBBL top 4 tournament in May. But actually it wasn´t mid April, but the beginning of March as the temperatures weren´t quite as warm any more, but it was still way to warm for the time of season and NBBL clubs weren´t battling in the playoffs yet, but were still battling in the last stages of the regular season. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners  came into their own living room having had a gigantic victory against the Juniors Baskets where German Calvin Schaum took over the scoring reigns exploding for 32 points and were boasting a terrific 13-1 record and already had the playoffs in their minds ready for battle. Frankfurt welcomed Team Bonn/Rhondorf who had had a disappointing season of 3-10. They began the season ok having a 2-2 record, but since then had rattled off eight loses in 9 games. In the first meeting in Bonn/Rhondorf, Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners had a uneventful 87-79 win where they didn´t give their best defensive performance, but had the needed scoring power to escape with a win. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners were boosted by 2019 NBBL allstars Len Schoormann and Maxi Begue who combined for 45 points. Team Bonn/Rhondorf came to Frankfurt on the heels of a tough 90-68 loss against Leverkusen and wanted to get revenge for their first meeting loss in October. The guests gave it a good fight, but couldn´t find a way to really challenge the Frankfurt team as they lost 83-70. Even though Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners were without their two top guards Len Schoormann and Maxie Begue who played in the Pro B playoff game that night, they had prepared for the game knowing they wouldn´t be present. “We prepared without them playing in  a tournament in Tuebingen without them. Everybody played their roles today and did a good job. We did a good job playing transition and getting them into foul problems. We overall had the better individual qualities”, stressed German forward Calvin Schaum. “I thought that we played well overall. Frankfurt was very strong and we had some injury problems. We fought hard and I felt that we made an important step growing together and believe that we will be able to get through the playdowns with our fight and hustle”, stated Team Bonn/Rhondorf German Marc Klesper.

                Both teams found their offensive rhythms quickly as Frederick Fischbach and Jonas Falkenstein drilled home trey´s. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got to the free throw line while Team Bonn7Rhondorf got some needed buckets from 16 year old power forward Maximilian Koerner and a trey from Marc Klesper who had come from the bench dead locking the game at 10-10. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners is one of those teams that can get going at anytime, but even without a Schoormann and Begue, they have enough weapons that can produce as 18 year old Risto Vasilijevic hit two three´s back to back and captain Alvin Onyia made a runner to up the Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 18-12. Team Bonn/Rhondorf then stepped up their defense and made a few big defensive stops as Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners had inserted some bench players and produced on offense. 200cm Mesut Can-Kara made a lay in and Aaron Isah scored as the guests took control in the zone and cut the Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 19-16. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got a few free throws and Marc Klesper closed out the first quarter with a trey cutting Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 22-19. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 38% from the field and 60% from outside and had 11 rebounds and one turnover while Team Bonn/Rhondorf shot 50% from the field and 50% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

                In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners was able to slowly get away from Team Bonn/Rhondorf and keep the lead going into the break. Team Bonn/Rhondorf got on the board first as Can-Kara hit a 15 footer to cut Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 22-21 and they would never get that close again. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners went on a 11-2 run to extend their lead to 33-23. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got some key baskets from 17 year old 2019 NBBL allstar Jordan Samare who hit a three and made a lay in while Fischbach used his quickness to get a lay in and 18 year old 198cm forward Leon Puellen also scored in the paint. Team Bonn/Rhondorf didn´t let this run effect them as they stormed right back going on a rapid 6-0 run to cut Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 33-29. In the run Team Bonn/Rhondorf got valuable support from 18 year old center Robin Dahl and Isah with lay in´s and 170cm guard Timo Schnieder made a submarine lay in. Basketball remains a game of runs and Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners used their strong offensive arsenal and went into the break with a 15-5 run to lead 48-34. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners played sound inside out basketball displaying fine ball movement and getting three trey´s with two from Schaum and one from Vasiljevic and got some buckets in the paint from Puellen and Oniya. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 50% from the three point line and they grabbed 18 rebounds and had 4 turnovers while Team Bonn/Rhondorf shot 30% from the field and 19% from the three point line and grabbed 19 rebounds and had 11 turnovers.

                In the third quarter Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners was able to keep their double digit lead while Team Bonn/Rhondorf continued to battle, but just couldn´t get over the hump. Schaum got Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners on the board first with free throws, but then Team Bonn/Rhondorf got a burst of fire power from lefty guard Jonas Falkenstein who netted back to back trey´s cutting Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners lead to 49-40. Team Bonn/Rhondorf played a lot better aggressive defense, but couldn´t take more advantage other than the two three´s. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners then punished the guests with a Samare 25 footer and a Vasiljevic three pointer upping their lead to 54-40. Team Bonn/Rhondorf then got some lightening production form Marc Klesper who scored twice including once with his left hand cutting Frankfurt´s lead to 54-44. Team Bonn/Rhondorf was unable to get a defensive streak going on defense as Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners just always had an answer. Vasiljevic scored twice at close range for the 59-45 advantage. Team Bonn/Rhondorf got some vital production from their long guard Nainoa Schmidt who scored twice, but Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners had that deep bench to contend with and got a huge three from little used German Vincent Dietrich. Team Bonn/Rhondorf got some momentum at the end as diminutive guard Timo Schneider connected on a buzzer beater fade away jumper to end the third quarter, but Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners led 65-54. “The lead was tight, but we were always able to keep the lead at 10 points. We rebounded better in the third quarter”, added Calvin Schaum. “We got open shots, but they didn´t fall. There isn´t more you can do”, added Marc Klesper. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 45% from the parking lot and hauled down 26 rebounds and had 8 turnovers while Team Bonn/Rhondorf shot 51% from the field and 41% from the parking lot and hauled down 24 rebounds and had 15 turnovers.

                In the fourth quarter Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got off to a big start taking a 11-2 run to extend their lead to their biggest of the game at 76-56. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners did a good job getting Team Bonn/Rhondorf into early foul trouble as they got their fifth team foul after a few minutes. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners got free throws from Schaum and from Samare as well as two buckets from Oniya who scored in the paint using his quickness. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners had decided the game early in the fourth quarter and let up a little at the end letting Team Bonn/Rhondorfgo  on a 14-6 run. Despite having five team fouls, Team Bonn/Rhondorf didn´t allow that to affect their offense as they got to the free throw line and also got baskets from Klesper, Schneider and a game buzzer beater from Schmidt making the end result of 83-70 look a lot more tasteful. Frankfurt got some key baskets from Puellen and Schaum making the Team Bonn/Rhondorf come back not as stressful. “They had a small rotation and we did a good job taking their main guys out. We didn´t have our starting five on the court in the last quarter. We did a good job with the less inexperienced guys on the court”, added Calvin Schaum. “I was happy with our last quarter. It was our best quarter and we fought harder”, stressed Marc Klesper. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners was led by Calvin Schaum with 18 points. Risto Vasiljevic added 16 points and Alvin Oniya added 15 points. Leon Puellen scored 13 points and Jordan Samare produced 10 points while Team Bonn/Rhondorf were led by Nainoa Schmidt with 25 points. Marc Klesper added 13 points and Timo Schneider had 12 points. Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 42% from outside and had 40 rebounds and 15 turnovers while Team Bonn/Rhondorf shot 44% from the field and 33% from outside and got 33 rebounds and had 16 turnovers.

Almost a year ago, it seemed like the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were in the drivers seat after stealing game one in Bochum with a seven man rotation including two U-19 youth players as they squeaked out a 87-83 OT win, but instead of advancing in the playoffs, the club totally lost control losing game two at home and game three back in Bochum. Now almost a year later the two clubs met again and surprisingly there weren´t as many faces around like last year as guys had come and gone, but some that had stuck around and were still on the court today were players like Konstantin Schubert, Garai Zeeb and Cosmo Gruehn from Frankfurt and Mark Gebhardt, Niklas Meesman and Raphael Bals from Bochum. The Fraport Skyliners came into the playoffs with a 13-9 record and got  third place in the regular season and had momentum having won the last two games against the RheinStars and Coburg while the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum had a slow 2019 winning only two of eight games and needing some kind of spark as they lost two of their last three games.  Boisterous Bochum fans came waving flags and spraying confetti all around the gym as that they tried to transport that carnival feeling to Frankfurt. It was a game of highs and lows for both teams, but when the contest was tight in crunch-time, it was the Fraport Skyliners Juniors that pulled out the exciting 89-80 victory to take the 1-0 series lead. After the win, it was four year man Garai Zeeb who wasn´t pleased at all with the way his team played, but was still thankful for squeezing out the win. “it was unacceptable to let this big lead slip out of our hands at home. On the road a game like this could be lost. On offense we mostly had good ball movement finding the open man usually. We scored well, but we gave up way too many points”, explained ex Bremehaven guard Garai Zeeb. After the tough loss, top Bochum scorer Montrael Scott was left sitting on the bench and fuming about the loss. He was content that they could have won this game in crunch-time. “We had too many down stretches and it was simple mistakes that hurt us. Three´s, second chance points and offense rebounds did the job. We didn´t get back on defense”, stressed ex Prairie View(NCAA) guard Montrael Scott.

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors jumped all over the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum taking a quick 9-2 run. Frankfurt refrained mostly from the long ball and got big man Armin Trtovac involved early with two buckets while Zeeb contributed 5 points. The guests got some production from ex Rhondorf center Florian Wendeler with a 20 footer and some Spanish fire from Albert Del Hoyo with a trey, but still trailed Frankfurt 13-7. Frankfurt continued to be aggressive in the paint and got easy baskets from German Richard Freudenberg who came into the game with some personal momentum having scored 12 points against Alba Berlin the night before and a lay in by Florida native Dennis Mavin as Frankfurt led 19-12. Bochum then got some extra energy from their sniper ex BBL player Marco Buljevic who played 65 BBL games with Giessen and Oldenburg and 182 Pro A games with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets as he stroked home consecutive three´s as Frankfurt retained the slim 19-18 advantage. Frankfurt got a lay up by Zeeb and free throws from Mavin as they led 23-20 after one quarter. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors put their dominant foot on the glass and would never look back as they led the rebound duel 12-7 and shot at a high clip from the field with 56% while they were cold from outside at 20%. The VFL Sparkassenstars still weren´t really in the game offensively despite having scored 20 points, but shot well at 44% from the field and from outside. Both teams had five turnovers a piece.

The second quarter would remain very tight as the VFL Sparkassenstars got off on a quick run, but soon it would be ex St Johns(NCAA) forward Richard Freudenberg that would take control and give the team a special energy that would spark them to get the lead back. The VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum went on a 8-0 run to take their first lead at 28-23. In the run it was their work horse Florian Wendeler who scored twice. His game has taken big strides since his Rhondorf days via Cuxhaven as he has improved his scoring and rebounding each season. Scott added two free throws and role player German David Stachananczyk add a fast break lay up as the guests had displayed more fighting qualities and more energy. But Frankfurt clawed back and led a furious charge from Armin Trtovac and Richard Freudenberg  to steal back the lead at 35-33. Trtovac continued to play his game and overpower Bochum under the basket with an old school hook shot, offensive rebound and put back and lay in, While Freudenberg exploded with two dunks. The first was a massive base line drive dunk while the second was off a steal and coast to coast run. “The first one was a pretty good dunk. It was almost a poster dunk. He has to continue to use his quickness so he can dunk like that more often”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Frankfurt didn´t cave in after stripping Bochum of the lead, but kept the momentum and lead as Zeeb nailed two big time three´s for the 41-37 lead. His calmness and coolness continues to be a big strength in his game as he doesn´t fail often under pressure. Bochum got some support from ex Nordlingen big man Adrian Lind, but shortly before the half-time buzzer, Zeeb dropped another three for good measure as the Fraport Skyliners closed out the second quarter well and led 46-41. “Zeeb and Freudenberg hit some big three´s. The dunks got them going and they then played more aggressive defense”, stressed ex Auburn(NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 51% from the field and 33% from the three point line and got 19 rebounds and had 9 turnovers while the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum shot 48% from the field and 38% from the three point line and got 16 rebounds and had 12 turnovers.

In the third quarter both teams went on huge runs, but at the end it was the Fraport Skyliners Juniors that were in front with the slim four point lead. Frankfurt played their best basketball in the first five minutes as they cruised out on a 14-3 run to lead 61-44. They stopped the guests on their first 9 possessions. Frankfurt´s tough aggressive defense forced them to turnover after turnover while they got many easy fast break buckets. On offense they continued to dominate inside as Zeeb and Mavin used their quickness to their advantage getting easy baskets. Trtovac also became active again scoring with a hook shot and then grabbing an offensive rebound and muscling home a put back while Freudenberg delivered his third dunk of the game. With Swedish shooting star Elijah Clarance not available anymore this season as he will only be inserted for BBL games, one had to wonder who would fill his spot as Mr dunk. 16 year old Len Schoorman is a worthy candidate as he can dunk with the best of them, but with Freudenberg it seemed like a new dunk star was born. At the 3,34 minute mark, the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum finally got their first field goal of the quarter with an Adrian Lind runner. This basket also brought the guests the needed energy to close out the third quarter with a lethal 15-2 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 63-59. Bochum played very smart while Frankfurt was extremely sloppy especially giving up an inbounds pass basket to German Raphael Bals at the end. They also allowed Bochum to visit the free throw line too much as Stachanczyk, Wendeler and Del Hoyo scored. Del Hoyo also scored back door and Scott hit a pull up jumper. “We gave up way too many easy lay ups. We didn´t get back and didn´t have good defensive communication and we threw away the ball too much”, stressed Garai Zeeb.”We got stops in our run and scored on transition. We got the ball to Wendeler and it worked to our advantage”, added Montrael Scott. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 48% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 27 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum shot 48% from the field and 38% from the parking lot and had 22 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

The fourth quarter remained tight, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the better nerves in crunch-time propelling them to the win. Gruehn got Frankfurt going with a trey which was followed by Wendeler free throws. Bals then got another inbounds lay in as Bochum cut Frankfurt´s lead to 66-63. But Bochum stayed on Frankfurt´s heels as each time they scored, they came up with an answer. After a Zeeb lay in and Gruehn bucket, it was Niklas Meesman and Scott who scored cutting Frankfurt´s lead to 71-68. Then it time for Marco Buljevic to crawl out of his shell as he had been partly invisible since the first quarter as he drilled home another trey to dead lock the game at 71-71. Frankfurt had been up and down while the VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum had displayed great calmness in their offensive sets. Frankfurt came out of the time out rejuvenated going on a 4-0 run as Trtovac controlled the paint area scoring a hook shot and then made an offensive rebound and put back for the 75-71 lead. Meesmann quickly reacted hitting a trey to cut the Frankfurt advantage to 75-74. Then came the turning point of the game as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors demonstrated their extraordinary offensive fire power that can arise at anytime hitting the guests with a deadly 9-0 run. Gruehn and Zeeb hit back to back three´s and Freudenberg followed it up with a nine point play as Frankfurt led 84-74. “We have enough players to take the big shots. I live to take these kind of shots and have enough self confidence to make them”, stressed Garai Zeeb. “That run was the game changer. Those three´s took our momentum away”, said Montrael Scott. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to keep the lead and win as Zeeb, Freudenberg and Gruehn added free throws down the stretch. “We played good defense and had intensity, but were just a step too slow. We have to be more alert in the next game. We have to learn from our mistakes and get better in game two”, warned Montrael Scott. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Garai Zeeb with 28 points. Armin Trtovac added 20 points and Richard Freudenberg added 18 points. The VFL Sparkassenstars Bochum were led by Montrael Scott with 19 points and Florian Wendeler contributed 18 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 51% from the field and 26% from outside and they hauled down 35 rebounds and had 20 turnovers while the VFL Sparkassenstars shot 48% from the field and 39% from outside and they hauled down 25 rebounds and had 25 turnovers.

Tyler Larson had a very long time to remember his last shot in Bamberg that didn´t want to fall as he passed on the heroics to ex Euroleague winner Tyrese Rice who won the game with Bamberg a scene only so usual for head coach Gordon Herbert who had seen many loses in Bamberg over the years, but probably none worse than the 2010 game five loss that also was decided in the last seconds. Not only did Larson and Herbert have a long time to reflect on the bitter loss in Bamberg and the last months, but also the whole club as they had 17 days to remember all the positives and negatives as that was how long they had to wait during the world championship qualifying window as it seemed like March second would never arrive. March second finally arrived and it wasn´t a cake walk type of opponent, but 8 time BBL champion Alba Berlin who also were licking their chops as they had lost a great opportunity to add to their trophy case by losing the 2019 cup final in Bamberg. With a little more than two months to go in the regular season, now commences the stretch run where Alba Berlin will also compete in the Euro Cup competition while the Fraport Skyliners have a huge hurdle in front of them as they would love to reach the playoffs in their 20th anniversary season, but will need somewhere between 10-12 victories in their last 16 games to achieve their goal. The Fraport Skyliners played a super first quarter, but after that couldn´t find a defensive rhythm on as Alba Berlin´s smooth offense demoralized the Fraport Skyliners 99-86. After the tough loss Fraport Skyliner guard Jason Clark once again had to find answers to the loss. “I thought that we came out well. We were aggressive and were really locked in. Once could tell that we were there to do a job. We got away from our game in the second half. We had too many mishaps on defense. They are  a very good team and know how to take advantage of our mistakes. They shot well the whole game and were efficient which gave them the needed self confidence that they needed. We played well with them for 25 minutes, but need to do it for 40 minutes”, stressed ex Georgetown(NCAA) guard Jason Clark. For Alba Berlin it was another normal day at the office. Even if they did allow 80 plus points, they always seemed to come up with stops when they needed them most. Ex Miami Heat guard Derrick Walton is a man of few words, but perhaps he is still getting a feel for the Alba Berlin game who finished with five points and five assists. “Our goal was to come out and make the right play every time. We defended well and didn´t let a few of their shots effect our game”, added Derrick Walton.

                4,650 fans turned out for the game, but before the game started one had to wonder who the new coach was with the Fraport Skyliners. But it wasn´t a new coach, but was Gordon Herbert who had decided to visit the barber and got a trim all around. Perhaps this new look was to help the Fraport Skyliners come out of the long break with a new kind of energy and help spark the team. It definitely helped in the first quarter wit Frankfurt´s game. At first Jason Clark didn´t want to comment on Herbert´s new haircut, but then came out of himself and found some positive words. “I think he looks good. Nobody asked him about it. My hair was different a few years ago and I changed it. Everybody has their own style”, smiled Jason Clark. Both teams found their offensive rhythm as Jason Clark continued to shine at the shooting guard position as he hit for 8 points. Alba Berlin forward Luke Sikma was hit with a few early turnovers, but erased them with five points. The Fraport Skyliners controlled the first quarter and found back to the Skyliners game of old with good defense leading to easy transition baskets. Frankfurt was also getting buckets inside as ex Bamberg center Leon Kratzer made offensive rebounds and two put backs. Ex Arizona State guard Tra Holder also got his offense going connecting for 5 points showing his quickness with a finger tip roll in and hitting a trey. Frankfurt did a good job keeping up the defensive pressure in the six minutes where Quantez Robertson was on the bench. After 10 minutes the Fraport Skyliners had the surprising 24-16 advantage. “We were happy with the first quarter. Maybe too happy. We showed that we can play with anyone and have showed that in the last three games. We were able to play at our pace and played well on transition. We got stops and had them play at our pace”, warned Jason Clark. The Fraport Skyliners shot 53% from the field and 38% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 6 turnovers while Alba Berlin shot 38% from the field and 29% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

                In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners were able to extend their lead to as much as 10 points, but Alba Berlin began to find their real offensive rhythm and started to chip away and find their way back into the game. Holder got Frankfurt on the board first with a runner and Jason Clark hit a trey as Frankfurt showed crisp ball movement of old and Kratzer made an old school hook shot for the 31-21 lead. Once again the Fraport Skyliners were able to compensate Quantez Robertson time on the bench with solid play at both ends of the court. But if you give Alba Berlin just a tad too much room on offense, then they will punish you and they did going on a 10-2 run to cut Frankfurt´s lead to 33-31. Alba Berlin started to let the three ball fly as Icelandic national player Martin Hermannsson and Peyton Siva connected while ex Clemson(NCAA) forward Landry Nnoko muscled home a hook shot and Hermannsson scored inside. The so dominant Frankfurt transition game of the first quarter was shut off now as Frankfurt was forced to play at Alba Berlin´s tempo. The Fraport Skyliners were able to hold  the lead with a Tra Holder three pointer, but it was Peyton Siva that changed the game in the last minutes to the benefit of Alba Berlin and they would never look back. Siva has had much injury woes since he arrived in Berlin in 2016, but when he was fit, he was always a huge part of their success. He scored 7 points In the last few minutes including a trey, a lay in and free throws at the buzzer. He is so under controlled and everything he does looks effortless something that gives opponent´s defenses fits. “He is so big for their success. What stands out with him is that he can do everything well and reads the game so well”, stressed json Clark. Alba Berlin went into the break with the 45-42 advantage.” Even if they came back, overall we still did a good job getting stops. But we didn´t do a good job weathering their storm which led into the second half”, stressed Jason Clark. Alba Berlin shot 54% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 13 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 46% from the field and 33% from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

                In the third quarter, Alba Berlin did a great job keeping control of the game and not allowing the Fraport Skyliners to get dangerously closer as they trailed by 8 points after 30 minutes. Siva continued to play his game as he set up German national player Johannes Thiemann for his ninth assist and then dropped another trey keeping Alba Berlin in front 50-44. Frankfurt was staying in the game with their fine rebounding especially at crashing the offensive boards which Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann showed getting to the free throw line twice making three points cutting the Alba Berlin lead to 50-47. The game was close, but it was Peyton Siva again who led the charge taking Alba Berlin on a 12-2 run to extend their lead to 62-49. The lethal guard duo of Siva and ex Giessen guard Joshiko Saibu contributed two three´s while Thiemann scored back to back buckets and was a vital spark from the bench. The Fraport Skyliner´s offense wasn´t clicking like Alba Berlin´s, but with a few defensive stops here and there and a few offensive executions, Frankfurt was able to cut the Berlin lead under 10 points. Even if Alba Berlin led only 68-60 after three quarters, they never ever looked like they could cave in. Their offense was like a fine oiled clock work and coupled with their consistency of their depth, Alba Berlin was in the drivers seat going into the fourth quarter. “We did a good job getting to the basket and getting offensive rebounds. We know that we have the personal with Wobo and Kratzer. We got extra possessions and just wanted to get as close as possible”, stressed Jason Clark. “Playing good defense and making the easy play continued to help us. Each time that we made those easy plays, it fueled us”, stated ex Michigan(NCAA) guard Derrick Walton. Alba Berlin shot 52% from the field and 53% from the parking lot and they got 17 rebounds and had 5 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 42% from the field and 29% from the parking lot and got 35 rebounds and had 10 turnovers.

                In the fourth quarter, Alba Berlin continued to have their offense rhythm flowing and just did a super job taking care of the lead and not let the Fraport Skyliners get to close. Alba Berlin got going quickly going on a 7-2 run to extend their lead to 75-62. With Siva and Saibou on the bench, they got a hook shot by Nnoko, a trey by Walton and a runner by Hermannsson. Both teams closed out the game shooting at a high clip. German Richard Freudenberg found his game after not having much of an offensive rhythm in the first three quarters with two trey´s and a runner. His stellar play was overshadowed at that juncture of the game by the Alba Berlin 89-74 lead and three Tim Schneider trey´s in three minutes. Once again Alba Berlin´s massive depth helped them keep their big lead and the Fraport Skyliners just couldn´t get over the hump and really threaten Alba Berlin in crunch time. Frankfurt was able to get a few more baskets in the last minutes with a Jason Clark reverse lay up and Quantez Robertson trey, but Alba Berlin was able to get to the free throw line and receive the needed insurance points. “Their depth hurt us. Their coach did a good job rotating everyone in. They are deep at every position and play well together”, stated Jason Clark. “Our bench was ready and today was a perfect example for that. Schneider hit three´s and he always stretches the floor well for us”, added Derrick Walton. “This loss will push us harder. We know that we have   a tough road ahead, but we all believe that we can reach the playoffs. We will take it one game at a time and push as hard as we can to reach the playoffs”, warned Jason Clark. Alba Berlin had five players in double figures led by Peyton Siva with 18 points and 9 assists. Martin Hermannsson added 16 points and Joschiko Saibu had 15 points while the Fraport Skyliners were led by Leon Kratzer with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Jason Clark and Quantez Robertson added 13 points a piece and Tyler Larson and Richard Freudeneberg added 12 points a piece. Alba berlin shot 58% from the field and 56% from outside and hauled down 20 rebounds and had 7 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 32% from outside and hauled down 46 rebounds and had 16 turnovers.

Langston Hall is a 27 year old 193cm point guard from Atlanta, Georgia playing his fifth professional season and second with ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece-A1). He began his basketball career with Mercer in 2010 and played there until 2014 playig a total of 133 NCAA games and as a senior played 36 games averaging 14.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 85.0%. He began his professional career in 2014 with Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (Italy-Serie A,) playing 28 games averaging 7.5ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4 (5.0apg), FGP: 29.8%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 77.6%. IN the 2015-2016 season he split time with Acqua Vitasnella Cantu (Italy-Serie A) playing 7 games averaging 8.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.9apg, 2FGP: 48.1%, 3FGP: 50.0%, FT: 80.0%; and played 5 FIBA Europe Cup games averaged 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.8apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 23.8%, 3FGP: 63.6%, FT: 75.0% and in Dec.’15 signed at Telekom Baskets Bonn (Germany-BBL) playing 15 games averaging 4.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 4.1apg. In the 2016-2017 season he played with Kolossos H Hotels (Greece-A1) playing 29 games averaging 10.6ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-5 (4.1apg), FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 74.7%. Last season he split time with KK Cibona VIP Zagreb (Croatia-A1), and in Oct.’17 moved to ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece-A1) playing 26 games averaging 10.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 83.7%. He spoke togermanhoops.com earlier in the season about basketball. 

Langston thanks for talking to germanhoops.com It’s coming up on three years since you last played in Germany with the Telkom Baskets Bonn. Since then you have played in Croatia and Greece. Has time flown by since then? 

Time has definitely flown by since my days in Germany. It’s crazy that I am in my fifth season overseas. 

You were in Bayreuth recently for a Basketball Champions League game and what memories do you have of the 85-69 win with Bonn over Bayreuth where you contributed 9 points.?

I don’t remember to much of that game because it was three years ago but I remember they were a good team who shared the ball and played hard. 

After your whirlwind sophomore season where you jumped around teams, you have played parts of three seasons in Greece. Would you say that Greece has become like a second home for you now? –

I would say yes it is like a second home to me. I have played now more than half my career here. I know what to expect and how things work here. 

Your playing your second season for ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece-A1) and four seasons ago played in the fourth Greece league and made a gradual swing to the A-1 league. How have you experienced the basketball excitement with this organization the last two seasons? 

It is a crazy story for a team to climb up the ranks like Promitheas has done over the last few years. The organization is very excited to be at the point that we are at now. It is an honor to be a part of their tradition. 

Does the club feel pressure from last seasons unbelievable and somewhat unexpected semi-final run to need to equal or better last season’s success? 

Not many people outside of our team excepted anything like that last year in only their second season in first division. I don’t think there is a lot of pressure on us now, but teams are just gunning for us more this year. We aren’t the underdogs like we were last season. Teams around the Greek league know who we are and are coming for us. 

You’re one of two Americans with Octavius Ellis from last season and four new guys have arrived for this season. There are no real stars, but four new hungry Americans. Between the guys Brown, Parks, and Meier and which player has been the biggest surprise for you with his play on the court? 

All of our new foreigners bring something different to the table. I wouldn’t say any of them surprised me because I have either played against them before or watched them play, so I knew what they were capable of doing. Tony Meier is a great shooter and helps spread the floor at the 4. RIon Brown is a good scorer who can score in a variety of ways. Terrell Parks is a strong, physical big man who does the dirty work. All of which are great pieces to add to our returning players. 

How magical was last season’s run in Greece. You were swept by top Euroleague team Olympiakos, but do you feel like you may have had the momentum going into game three had you won game two which you lost by one point? 

Last season’s run was very magical seeing how the year before Promitheas finished 9th place in the regular season. To go from there to 3rd in the regular season and 4th in the playoffs shows a huge step. Game 2 against Olympiacos was a crazy a game and if we could of pulled it out, I think it would for sure gave them a lot of pressure going into game 3 and put the momentum on our side. 

What was the secret to the success last season. How vital was the contribution of the Greek players? Could one say that they kept the team together? 

I think one of the main reasons for success last year was that we didn’t have any egos. No one cared about their personal success. It was all about the team. We knew we didn’t have that one big star player so we had to play together. We have a few of the best Greek players in the league and they did an amazing job leading us and keeping us on track. 

In your first two seasons in Greece you had a 0-9 record against the two top Euroleague team Panthinaikos and Olympiakos. If there was one player that you will forever remember as the player that impressed you most who would it be? Possibly Vassiis Spanoulis? –

Playing against those teams in Greece is a tough task and I haven’t been fortunate enough to get a win against either of them. Spanoulis is probably that player because he will go down as one of the best point guard’s in European history. He is a little older now but he still reads the game at a high level and still makes the big time shots. 

In your sophomore season you played in Italy, Belgium and Germany. What did you learn from this season that helped you have successful seasons the last two? 

Everyone thinks I played in Belgium but I actually never did. When I was leaving Italy I was about to sign a contract with Oostende but it was reported that I did. I stayed in Italy another few days and ended up signing in Germany instead. This was a big year for me because it wasn’t a successful one. I learned know matter what I had to stay positive and work on my game even though I wasn’t playing much.

You played briefly in Cantu and was teammates with sniper Brady Heslip who Jerry Stackhouse said is the best shooter on earth. How did you experience his shooting and where do you rank it? 

It was crazy because I played with Brady that year in Italy then left and went to Germany to play with Rotnei Clark. Those two guys are for sure the best shooters I have ever played with. Seeing the way those guys shot the ball every day in practice was pretty special. I might have to give Brady a very slight edge as the best shooter though. 

In Bonn you were teammates with veteran Jimmy Mckinney who is a basketball legend from St Louis. Did you soak anything up from his work ethic? –

Jimmy had a great work ethic and was one of the main guys who helped me stay positive when I wasn’t playing very much in Germany. He always came early and/or stayed after practice to get extra work in. Jimmy was a great teammate and an even better person. 

As a rookie you balled for Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (Italy-Serie A) playing 28 games averaging 7.5ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4 (5.0apg), FGP: 29.8%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 77.6%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you were very far away from home in Atlanta? –

As a rookie playing in Serie A was a great learning experience. It taught me about the grind of a 9-10 month professional season. Things will not always go your way every game but you can control how hard you work. 

You had some serious veterans on that team like 38 year old Linton Johnson who played in the NBA and is still playing today with San Nicola Basketball Cedars (Italy-Serie C Silver). Was he like a mentor for you? Is there anything particular that you will always remember about him? 

Linton only played a few games with us before he left the team. He was for sure like a mentor for me early on the season. Always pulling me a side and talking to me. As a rookie in Europe especially at the point guard position you need something like that. Something I will remember about him is that even though he was at the end of his career he was still playing as hard if not harder than anyone else on the court.

In the summer of 2014 you played NBA Summer League with the Miami Heat. What memories do you have of breathing NBA air and did you make any interesting encounters while there? 

Coming right out of college and playing in the NBA Summer League it really shows you the difference between college and being a professional. Everybody is bigger, stronger and faster. It was a great experience with the Miami Heat organization and they were first class. I played with some great players who are still playing in the NBA at a high level like James Ennis for the Rockets and Tyler Johnson for the Heat. Also with a lot of guys who are playing in Europe at a high level.

You had some very interesting teammates that would reach the NBA like Shabazz Napier and another guy that is no longer with us with Tyler Honeycutt. What memories do you have of the big German kid Danilo Barthel? 

It was great getting to know those guys and interact with them outside of basketball. Danilo was very skilled big man and a great guy.

You played at Mercer from 2010-2014. What was your sweetest memory there reaching the NIT Sweet 16 or A-Sun final in 2013? 

Those were both great accomplishments for the program but the sweetest memory was actually winning the ASUN championship in 2014 against FGCU. They beat us in the conference tournament in 2012 and 2013 (the year they went on to make a sweet 16 run in the NCAA tournament). To finally get over that hump and beat the team that had turned into a rivalry was amazing. 

You played many games in your career, but you surely will never forget the two tight loses against Belmont in your sophomore season. Were the battles with Ian Clark as intense as the games? 

Belmont was in our conference for two years and we had some great games with them. They were an excellent team with great players like Ian Clark who is in the NBA but also guys like Kerron Johnson and JJ Mann who are still playing in Europe. They also had Drew Hanlen (who trains some of the top NBA players) who was a pretty good player as well. Those were some very intense games but sadly we actually came up short every time against those guys. 

I would imagine the 78-71 win against Duke your senior year was your most memorable win where you scored 11 points. What still stands out from the game more than 4 and a half years ago? 

The biggest thing that stands out to me is just being on that stage in the NCAA tournament. As a little kid growing up, who plays basketball, you always watch March Madness and see all of the upsets that happen every year. To actually be in that position against one of the best programs in college basketball history and pulling of that upset is like a dream come true. Growing up I was always a big Duke fan so that made it that much better. 

That team had six future NBA players. When looking back then at your game and what they brought to the table was there really so much difference or was their abilities so much above the crowd? 

Ability wise they were way better than us and we knew that. We knew if we made this an individual game we would get beat pretty badly. We also knew if we played as a team, shared the ball and just went out there and competed together that we could play with anyone. We had a starting lineup with all Seniors so we were pretty battle tested even though that Duke team was the most individually talented team we had played. 

How did head coach Bob Hoffman groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career? 

Coach Hoffman did an amazing job of getting me ready for the next level. Two of the main things that he got me better at that help me a lot as a professional are being a vocal leader on the court and knowing how to run a team. He gave me a lot of freedom in college to call plays my last two years and pretty much see how the rhythm of the game was going. 

Who won a one on one back in the day you or Travis Smith? 

Travis Smith is my guy and backcourt running partner at Mercer for two years. I think we might have to keep that one a secret. 

You played against many great players in the NCAA, but who was the toughest battle that is in the NBA now? 

I played against some really good NBA guys while I was in college but the toughest match ups were probably two underrated guys in Josh Richardson at Tennessee University and Quinn Cook at Duke. They were both very good players in college but what made them tough were that they weren’t just good offensive players they were two way players. They took the challenge of guarding the other teams best player. 

Who would be your starting five of best teammates you ever played with? 

That is a very difficult question. I might have to go with Eugene Lawrence at point guard, CJ Williams at the 2, Casey Prather at the other wing, Aaron White at the 4 and Octavious Ellis at the 5. I think a team of those guys would be pretty good.

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick? 

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul Jabbar

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

That is a very tough question but right now I would have to say Michael Jordan but Lebron’s career isn’t over yet so he has time to change that.

Thanks Langston for the chat.

Seth Hinrichs is a 25 year old 203cm guard from Clara City, Minnesota that is playing his second season with Rasta Vechta currently 13,6ppg, 4,5rpg and 2,4apg. Last season he helped the team move to the easyCredit BBL form the Pro A averaging 13.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 61.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 83.6%. Two seasons ago he played with the Kirchheim Knights (Germany-ProA) playing 35 games averaging 11.6ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 72.4%. As a rookie he played for FC Porto (Portugal-LPB) playing 20 games averaging 8.7ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 79.1%; FIBA Europe Cup: 6 games: 6.7ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 64.7%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 83.3%. He played at Lafayette (NCAA) from 2011-2015 graduating from Lafayette as the all-time leader in 3PG % in Patriot League history. As a senior he played 32 games averaging 12.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 83.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the incredible season in the BBL. 

Seth thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how good is basketball life for you at the moment?

I’m in Vechta and basketball life is good. It’s been a fun year so far.

If someone had told you in September of 2018 that Vechta would be in third place at the end of January 2019 what would you have thought?

I had high hopes for this season but I think there’s still a lot of games left to be played and we need to keep improving. It’s more important where we’re at in May.

Congrats on the great season your having. Does it feel like a real Cinderella story or do you feel like as competitors you would be selling yourself short knowing the potential the team had. 

We knew we had potential. We were bringing back a good core from last year and added good pieces as well. We needed a few games to get our confidence as a group but I think Pedro has done a good job in bringing us along the right way. 

The club began slowly losing it’s first three games, but since then have rattled off 13 wins in 14 games. Was a reason for the turn around just the normal blab la of the team having to find each other in the early going or were the reasons for the turnaround a lot deeper?

I think we had good chemistry from the start. I would say the biggest reason for the turnaround was confidence. We just needed that first win to generate some momentum. 

You have found ways of wining in so many ways if it was through defensive battles, scoring shootouts or close wins which occurred three times. Half way through the season what do you feel is the teams biggest strength?

I think our biggest strengths would be our selflessness and our defense. We pass and share the ball well on offense and play an aggressive style of defense. 

You have celebrated some memorable wins in your career, but please explain where the victory against Alba Berlin ranks? How special was this day for the team? 

It was a good win for us and gave us confidence to beat a talented team like that. But at the same time we also know that they had some injuries and were not at full strength. 

Years ago winning in Bamberg would have been unheard of, but even now it’s no easy task. What did it feel like winning in Freak City? How big was this win for the team? 

This was another good win for us on the road. There’s also a lot of history and success with that club but I think they were having some internal struggles because they fired their coach after the loss. 

How huge in general was the win against Alba Berlin for the team mentality and self confidence? Do you feel like that win proved to the team that it can beat anyone?

As I said earlier that win added to our confidence. Every game in the BBL is tough and we caught Berlin at the right time. 

You have played against many talented kids and have seen Philipp Herkenhof and Luc Van Slooten develop, but just how raw is Franz Wagner at age 17? He didn’t do much against Vechta, but he has had some other really good games and even started games. Is this guy NBA material like his brother Moritz?

I think he has a bright future ahead of him and a high ceiling. I also think the youth development in Germany is really good and there are a lot of talented young players. There have been more and more Germans signed or drafted by NBA teams so I think that speaks to the level of talent in this country. 

Vechta averages 83 points per game and allows only 77 points per game which is third best. What has been the secret to the success on the defensive end?

I think our aggressive style of play. We try to pick up full court and make teams uncomfortable. Max DiLeo sets the tone for us every game in that regard. There’s a reason they call him the Verteidigungs minister.

How vital has head coach coach of the year candidate Pedro Calles been? How has he developed this season as a BBL head coach? 

I don’t think anyone who knows Pedro is surprised that he has been successful thus far. He has been the reason for all of it. His coaching philosophy and principles are what make this team go. Pedro is passionate about basketball and wants the best for each one of us. He makes the game fun and challenges us to improve every day. It’s easy to play for a coach like that.

There are no real super stars on the team. How key has the fact been that everybody has played for each other and that whole ego thing has been put aside?

I think that has been a huge key and has actually won us a few close games. Everyone is willing to work hard for their teammate and that’s a testament to Pedro and the type of high character guys he brought in. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. TJ Bray brought experience and a special fire that really capitulated his game to another level. He was always a solid professional player, but he really made the next step with Vechta. What do you believe has been the biggest reason for his success?

I think one of the biggest reasons TJ has been successful is that he’s been given an opportunity to showcase his skill set. TJ is an incredibly smart player and is able to take full advantage of that in Pedro’s system. It’s been a great fit and TJ does a great job of setting everybody up and distributing. He really sees the floor well and makes life easier for everyone out there. It’s fun playing alongside him. 

Even if there no super stars, American Austin Hollins has been that type of go to guy that has carried the team in his own way. How important has his leadership qualities been and does he ever tell some NBA stories about his dad Lionel? 

Austin’s brought a lot of leadership in the way he approaches the game. Every day in practice he brings his best and that’s helped elevate everyone else’s game. When he steps on the court he’s always focused and leads by example. And he’s been clutch for us in a lot of key moments, whether it’s hitting big shots or making big plays on defense. It’s fun playing alongside him as well.

How important was the pick up of Max DiLeo for the Vechta defense? How has he made an impact on the defensive end most that has helped the team most?

It’s been huge for us. Max sets the tone and is the heart of the team. He’s always picking up full court, diving on the floor for loose balls, and making all of the hustle plays. Max does all the dirty work that no one wants to do and is so selfless about it. He’s a guy who you hate to play against but you love to play with. 

Let’s talk about your game. Your averaging 13,6ppg, 4,5rpg and 2,4 apg and shooting 32% from outside. How happy have you been with your play this season?

I think there’s room for improvement but as long as we’re continuing to win games I’m happy with that. I want to continue to grow as a player and I think I’ve been able to do that as the year has gone on.

Is your role any different from last season? I would imagine you are one of the team leaders this season together with experienced Austin Hollins?

I think my role has stayed similar to what it was last year. Our captain and leader is definitely Josh Young but we also have a lot of leaders in different areas. We have a good group of high character guys.

You have needed so adjustment period to getting a feel for the BBL. What has been the biggest adjustment coming from the Pro A and what is the biggest challenge for you playing in the BBL?

I think the physicality and speed increase at each level. That’s probably been my biggest adjustment and challenge so far.

Your shooting at 32% from outside which is a bit down from the other seasons, but you are playing at a higher level. What do you work on on a daily basis in practice to help you be successful against the more skilled and athletic players in the BBL?

I work on my shooting after practice a lot with Robin Christen. We get a lot of shots up and I think that will pay off as the season continues. I also try and focus on improving my lateral quickness to be able to guard in the BBL. 

An important part of your game is filling the stat sheet and just being efficient. Your efficiency is a bit down form your seasons in the Pro A, but your still efficient. How difficult is it continuing to be efficient while playing at a higher level?

It’s definitely tougher because they players and defenses are better. But I think as I continue to gain experience I will grow and mature as a player. My goal is to still be efficient and versatile.

In our last interview you stated I think playing alongside so many other talented players and being able to pick their brains and take things from the way they play the game has helped. I study our game film and watch a lot of European basketball at the higher levels as well. I think watching film and learning from my peers has been instrumental in my growth’. You continue to be very versatile even at the BBL level. How has your game continued to grow this season?

Playing under a coach like Pedro has helped me improve how I see the game, what reads to make and what type of pace to play. He’s really helped prep myself and my teammates on how to read defenses and where to be in position on offense. He’s also done a great job over the last year and a half of showing me things I can add to my game to take my game to another level. Pedro is a great developer and teacher of the game.

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 so because of his size and skill set. I’m excited to watch him and Porzingis together. 

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

I thought it was a little premature because his career isn’t over yet but he definitely has good reason to think so. 

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

I think it’s hard to compare across different sports but I would say they are both among the best athletes to ever play their respective sports. 

What was the last movie that you saw? 

Creed 2.

Thanks Seth for the chat.

One of the things I dreaded most as a kid during the summer´s was the nervous waiting and waiting in the afternoon and observing the ominous looking dark clouds that just didn´t go away for the night to finally come on the day of having tickets to go to a Boston Red Sox game. Even though my dad had season tickets, they were there for the company´s employees and customers, but every now and then I was allowed to go so every opportunity was a big highlight for a 10 year old boy. Some afternoons at times felt like an eternity, because time just didn´t pass by quickly enough as I was already day dreaming about if I would catch a foul ball, how many hot dogs I would manage to eat, if my favorite player Jim Rice would slug one over the Green monster and if I could get any autographs before the game. There was really only one thing that could stand in the way of being able to catch a major league baseball game and that was if the rain would come and in my case if those dangerous looking black clouds would lead to a down pour which would conclude the baseball night becoming a wash out. Not only would a massive down pour result in the failure(washout) of the game being played, but in terms of the Fraport Skyliners one will most likely never experience a leak through the Fraport arena roof that could lead to the cancellation of the game, but if the club doesn´t get their act together in the last two months, then their 20^th anniversary season could be a huge washout, something neither fans or management had calculated at the beginning of the season after having witnessed the personal that the club had reeled in. I reached Jason Clark on a Sunday afternoon when he was chilling with family and friends in Arlington, Virginia during the six day break from the Fraport Skyliners and was confident when he told me that he never experienced a washout at the ball park or will the Fraport Skyliners. “I haven´t been to many baseball games. I remember going to a Washington Nationals game. I don´t remember who they played, but I remember it being a very long game. There was no rain delay or washout and I´m more than confident that this season won´t be a washout either with the Fraport Skyliners”, warned Jason Clark. The few days back home in Virginia gave him ample time to refocus and get away from basketball for a little while and recharge the batteries. But basketball was still on his mind during the break as positive thoughts were flowing through his mind. “When you look at the standings, we are only three wins behind. We lost two very close games. We have been taking the right steps in the last weeks. When we come back from the break, we want to keep making those steps in the direction we have been going in”, warned Jason Clark.

                With a little more than two months to go in the regular season, it is now perform or go home as the Fraport Skyliners have a very disappointing 7-11 record and aren´t scratching at the top 4 positions of the easyCredit BBL as many had predicted, but instead are lounging around in 13^th place and with a somewhat clouded future as to what will happen on the court between now and mid May when the regular season ends. The season has simply not gone the way the club and head coach Gordon Herbert has wanted. In the last months one has been able to observe on many occasions just how disgusted Herbert is with his basketball world as he is on the sideline and has to witness one ugly turnover after the other. One could go on and on about all the problems, but it is something that can´t be avoided. The usual abundance of injuries and players not functioning were a big sore point in the Skyliners season which hampered a growth of the team chemistry that has seemingly stalled the whole season. Advancing to the next round of the Eurocup was a big success, but that didn´t help carry over to the BBL games where they have been up down the whole season. You obviously want to find some of the good moments of the season, but even if you have to try really hard to find those, when you do, one have to wonder where they would be in the standings if they had lost in Overtime in Vechta and if Quantez Robertson hadn´t hit the buzzer beater against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. It wasn´t an easy time for Jason Clark to have to listen to my negative questions, but he swallowed hard and took it the way a true professional should staying calm while reflecting on the reasons why the season hasn´t gone the way they wanted to. “A lot of where we are now in the standings and how we have played has to do with us figuring out our roles. It takes some teams longer than others. We had many bumps in our way with injuries and players leaving. But now we are all back except for Akeem Vargas and now it is a perfect time to make a run. There are two months left and now it´s time to make our move”, warned Jason Clark.

                In the last weeks, the team has been making strides, but at this point of the season, it isn´t enough to have played well for 38 minutes, because if you aren´t getting wins, you won´t be making ground on other teams and won´t be necessarily strengthening one´s self confidence either. The last two loses are perfect examples that the Fraport Skyliners can play with very talented teams, because in both games they had their fate in their own hands, but lost in the last seconds. Had they won these two games, then their basketball world would be looking a lot different now. In the loss to the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, Frankfurt had the game already lost in the previous play, but still had a few seconds to inbounds the ball under the Ludwigsburg basket and get a possible miracle tip in. Instead of going to one of their two big men Jonas Wolfarth-Botterman or Leon Kratzer, they chose to go their identity figure Quantez Robertson who is athletic and can leap with the best of them, but in this phase, it would have been the better option if they had gone to one of the longer players. In Bamberg the team showed signs from old Skyliner days where their defense was their staple and had the chance to win on the last play, but their new go to guy Tyler Larson went for the win to soon instead of shaving more seconds off the clock missed and then watched as Euroleague winner Tyrese Rice won the game in the last seconds. “Those loses really hurt, but we didn´t lose those games at the end, but earlier in the game with the mistakes we did. Having Larson take the last shot was what we wanted. We have a lot of confidence in him. Of course it would have been more ideal if he had let some more seconds off the clock. He was in attack mode and every player has to decide for himself when it´s time to go. He saw the opportunity and went for it. It was unfortunate that he missed, but those are shots he can make”, stressed Jason Clark.

                There are many factors that have contributed to the Fraport Skyliner woes, but the most vital has been their inability to defend the way Gordon Herbert is used to. In their best days back when a Justin Cobbs and Jordan Theodore were calling the shots, the club belonged to the best defensive teams in the easycredit BBL and on average were giving up in the high 60´s per game. This season it has been a disappointing 82 points which is still ninth best in the league, but that shows just how offensive the league has become. For a Gordon Herbert to have to witness his team allowing so many points must be as disheartening for him as much as it is to see how the New York Knicks organization went from the glory days of the 70´s to what they are today, but he has somehow not let that affect him as he continues to preach his philosophy and the team gave one if not their best defensive performance of the season in Bamberg. In the last weeks, they have giving less points up as they demonstrated against Crailsheim and Oldenburg where they gave up an average of 71 points. Two of their biggest deficiencies have been their rotations which belonged to their strong point when they were defending well in the past and their poor one on one defense. Since the departure of Brady Heslip and Eric Murphy who were sore points on the defensive end and with the addition of guards Tyler Larson and Tra Holder there has been a considerable improvement and that will continue to grow as the current team and new players get better adapted to their defensive roles. Other problems this season has been their inability to take care of the ball where they give up 14,4 turnovers per game third worst in the league and their free throw shooting which is at 74% which is in the lower one third worst in the league. Even if these things have been a problem, Clark believes they can be corrected. “We have aggressive players and they all want to make the right play. I think a big reason for our turnovers this season has been because of guys just trying to make a play and make something happen. It is better to have turnovers while being aggressive than passive. If we want to move forward, we have to cut down on the turnovers. We can´t allow teams to have extra possessions against us or get easy points on transition. We have to learn to make our free throws. It is different with every player. It is free points. We have to get up more reps and start making more. We have all the tools to score many points, but our biggest goal now is improving our defense especially our rotations and one on one defense”, stressed Jason Clark.

                Even if they are only the 16^th best offensive team in the league averaging 79 points per game, it would still be a valuable weapon if they were the defensive team that they once was. The club has the ability to score a lot of points on any given night, but what happens when the game is on the line. They don´t have that proven consistent go to guy this season like they had in the past with guys like Dashaun Wood, Justin Cobbs, Jordan Theodore and Phillip Scrubb. This season they were hoping that Canadian Brady Heslip could be that guy, but instead he showed flashes, but wasn´t consistent enough and on many nights his inadequate defense forced Gordon Herbert to leave him fuming on the bench for longer periods of time. Jason Clark who never got comfortable as a point guard, but since the arrival of guards Larson and Holder has found a home at his natural position at shooting guard has been the teams most consistent scorer this season and is that go to guy player. Another guy who needed no adjustment period has been Tyler Larson who is leading the team in scoring at 19,3ppg, second in rebounds with 6,0rpg and second in assists with 4,3apg. He has played four BBL games and in the last three games has averaged 22,0ppg. He has the overall game, but it is his aggressive and constant attack mode that makes him the perfect go to guy and he will be a big reason if this club will make the playoffs or not. In the last years, Gordon Herbert has been known for making the right pick ups with Dashaun Wood, Justin Cobbs, Jordan Theodore and Phillip Scrubb just to name a few, but this season, he had misfortune in his choices, but with Larson, he has found back to his old ways as it has been the right one. Larson didn´t make the right decision in Bamberg, but Jason Clark knows that he and himself could be that successful go to guys duo. “Having two go to guys would be great for the team and us as well. Tyler is so dangerous on the floor. Plus he is so unselfish. If we would make all the shots from the passes that he dishes out, then he would average 10 assists per game. We compliment each other very well. He opens up a lot for me. Our combination of attacking and creating for others will be very helpful for the team in the last months”, warned Jason Clark.

                The team said farewell to Trae Bell-Haynes who had began slowly, but then had found his rhythm only to be injured which threw him totally off again. With Vargas coming back having this deep guard rotation will still be beneficial as the Fraport Skyliners will look to wear down teams more in the stretch run as they will keep high energy for 40 minutes. One player that the 2000 BBL cup winner is still waiting for to break out is rookie Los Angeles native Tra Holder. One has to simply give him time, because he never played for legendary head coach Larry Brown in Italy because he injured his shoulder. But now in Frankfurt he is at 100% and burning to show his basketball skills. He can be an offensive asset and makes the drive look easy with a touch of a floater. His defensive abilities also fits into the defensive philosophy of Gordon Herbert. The question now is when will he truly break through. Hopefully sooner than later. “He is still trying to find his rhythm. We have stressed to him to be more aggressive. He is still learning the program. We know that he can pay. The biggest thing for him now is not worrying to make mistakes or walking on our toes. That is normal rookie thinking. It takes some guys longer than others, but we see that he can give us a lot to be successful”, stressed Jason Clark. In the last week came the news that Gordon Herbert might take the job of Canadian national team. Clark doesn´t see this as a distraction and is genuinely happy for his boss. “This news doesn´t affect us. I think it is a great opportunity for him. It is great that he is getting the recognition, because he is a great coach. He knows how to get teams to win and we are all happy for him”, stressed Jason Clark. With his new job as Canadian national coach seemingly to become a reality, the only other thing that Gordon Herbert needs to accomplish now in the next months is to prevent that washout and make another trip to the playoffs. The first step to having any kind of success is to have healthy self confidence. If you don´t have that, then you will make life a lot harder for yourself. With Clark´s little nephew getting restless in the back-round, the American ended the phone call with that last positive push and self confidence in the direction of where he sees the Fraport Skyliners heading. “I believe that we will make a surge in the last months. I have so much confidence in this team especially with the steps we have continued to make. I believe 120% that we can make the playoffs if we continue to do what we have been doing recently”, warned Jason Clark. There are 16 games remaining for the Fraport Skyliners to reach the BBL playoffs as a lot will have to go their way as winning somewhere between 10-12 games will get them in. They have many tough games left, but have 8 home games remaining. In the past under Herbert, Frankfurt often proved to be at their best in the stretch run in their own living room especially against the top teams. They have a very talented team, but they have to produce right away on Saturday with an upset against Alba Berlin. A perfect opportunity to get revenge after the bitter cup loss recently. If they can find back to their old ways and days when they defended with passion and heart then they could make it, but the odds aren´t in their corner now, but will rise if they can start a run right away. Maybe they will experience a few wash outs on the island of Mallorca in form of heavy rain during their training camp and motivate them to never want to experience a wash out again if they don´t start producing on the court right away, because if they don´t then their season will end in a washout.

Shavar Newkirk is a 22 year old 183cm guard from the Bronx, New York playing his rookie season in Germany with FC Schalke 04 (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career at Cardinal Heyes HS /Bronx, NY. In 2014 he began his NCAA career with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 3.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.3apg. In his sophomore season with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 37 games averaging 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 73.8%. In his junior season at St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 12 games averaging 20.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 84.7%. In his senior year with St.Joseph’s (NCAA) he played 32 games averaging 17.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 76.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the year about basketball. 

Shavar thanks for talking to germanhoops.com It is 2019 and you were rewarded with a rookie contract with FC Schalke. How did you arrive into 2019? How did you experience new years in Germany? How was it different from New York?

Thank you and the pleasure is all mine. I arrived to Germany the day after Christmas. I went to a New Year’s Eve engagement with some of my teammates. The difference between Germany and New York is the six hour time frame.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? This isn’t your first time in Germany as you participated in 2014 at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament. Have you had any friends playing in Germany in the last years besides Javon Baumann?

You are correct, this is my second time in Germany. I don’t know much about Germany but I am planning to experience a lot while am out here for however long that is to meet new friends and lifelong partnerships. I am vaguely familiar with the German basketball league but I do know of a few players from the NBA that are from Germany such as Dirk Nowitzki and Dennis Schroder. Not that I am aware of, ‘What’s up Javon Baumann’ LOL
Are you one of those guys that likes to make new years resolutions of one of those guys that doesn’t believe in it? If you do what are some new years resolutions that you have set for 2019?

I don’t make New Year’s resolutions but I set goals throughout the year. My main goal is to be the best basketball player that I can be and my second goal is the win a championship.

Congrats on signing with FC Schalke. You started with Canadian team Halifax Hurricanes, but that was brief. How could a guy like you that ripped up the NCAA as a junior and senior not have had a team earlier in your rookie season?


Your guess is as good as mine. Things happen for a reason and I’m with FC now and I will give my best to them.

How did the last months effect your mentality and self confidence? How did you stay positive that you would land a team? 

It was frustrating that no one picked me up right away but I didn’t lose confidence. I continued working out and working on perfecting my craft. In addition, I played in a neighborhood tournament which I won a championship and received a MVP award. I had to stay patient and positive and I knew that my hard work would pay off.

Your coming to a team that is struggling in their first season in the Pro A. What has been your experience being apart of the FC Schalke organization? Do you feel that the club is rich in tradition? Especially with their football department and their amazing stadium? Do you like football? Will we see you at upcoming home games?

When I got here, they welcomed me with open arms and it feels like a family. I like the defense and offense schemes. Yes, with their deep rooted history in football I feel blessed to be part of this organization. I am interested in the sport of football and watched a few world cup games. If my time allows me, I would like to attend a few games at this beautiful huge stadium. I would like to have this experience.

You couldn’t have a better teammate and mentor at the guard position than Courtney Belger who belongs to the top guards in the Pro A. How important has he been for you on the court in the early going

I was brought her to put the ball in the basket but I feel like a ball player first and will do whatever it takes to the team to win.

Having you and Belger on the court could be one of the more explosive guard duo’s on the court. Do you feel like you both will profit from each other when you are on the court at the same time?

Because of his experience I’m getting a lot of wisdom which will help me at game time. He has taken me under his wing like I’m his little brother. I can’t wait to war with him. I haven’t experienced game time with him yet, but what I’ve seen in practice is amazing. With his experience and my youth and me being a blur, I think we will make a dynamic duo.

Let’s talk a bit more about your game. You’re a guy that has many abilities at the guard position. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit tat description best?

Growing up I watched the great small guards and took bits and pieces from their game which is why I believe that I have an all-around game. If I had to pick someone, I would pick the future hall of fame Chris Paul because of his generalship and all-around game. 

You are a player that showed all around good offensive qualities in the NCAA. What parts of your game are most important at continuing to develop now in your rookie season?

For my game to continue as a pro and to be the best player that I can be.

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed right away on the court?

My basketball IQ and the ability to get the ball to the rim.

You grew up in Harlem. One always hears the worst stories about Harlem and it is often portrayed as not the best place. But how was it growing up in Harlem? Was basketball the best thing to stay away from trouble as a kid?

Growing up in a two parent household, my parents always kept my brother and I on the right path. We were not problem children. Harlem to me is a community and when the community knew I was striving for basketball they always had my best interest. To me Harlem will always be home.

You played at Cardinal Hayes HS which has some notable alumni like Martin Scorsese and well known ex NBA player Jamal Washburn. What stories do you remember growing up hearing about him there? Was his path via Cardinal Hayes HS that motivated you to keep grinding and moving forward with basketball?

I originally went to Rice High School and was transferred after my freshman year to Cardinal Hayes High School. I’ve heard stories about how phenomenal player that Jamal Mashburn was. I just wanted to make my own path and be the best player I could be. I gave them their best record in 72 years @ 26-2. I love the game of basketball so I don’t need motivation to keep grinding.
Before attending St Joseph’s you played in Germany at the well known Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) in 2014 reaching the final losing to Italy. You played 7 games averaging 12.9ppg, 5.3rpg, Ast-5 (4.6apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 33.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 78.7%. What memories do you have of this experience and against top future players that you battled against?
When I went to Germany at 17, it was my first experience out of America. My most memorable moment was being undefeated until the championship round and losing to Italy. I also remember the bystanders with their painted faces, the live band; the atmosphere was unlike anything that I ever saw before.

You played at St Joseph’s (NCAA) from 2014-2018. What overall kind of experience was this? Was winning the Atlantic conference title in 2016 and reaching the NCAA tournament your most memorable experience?

Playing at St. Joe’s taught me to always be ready, work hard. I always knew we would win the Atlantic 10 conference title but my most memorable experience was going against Gonzaga University. We thought that they could not handle us and the hawk would never die. When we were at halftime, we were down by 30.

You played two seasons with Atlanta Hawk DeAndre Bembre. What kind of experience was it being his teammate and what was your most fondest Bembre moment in a game where you remember going ‘Wow’?

He was a big trash talker but his game backed it up. My fondest moment is the Atlantic 10 conference when he dropped 30, it was how he did it that made it so memorable.

He has had a slow but steady development with the Atlanta Hawks. Where do you feel will his path go in the NBA? Do you see him being a guy that will average double figures in stats in the NBA in the future?

I knew DeAndre to be a hard working player and hard work pays off. I could see him averaging double digits in the future.

In your junior year after 12 games you were averaging 20.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 84.7%. then you were injured and missed the rest of the season. Do you ever wonder how your career may have shaped up or turned out differently had you stayed healthy?

I really don’t dwell on it but with all the work I put in. I believe that it would have been a great season. Everyone’s journey is different.

You had many huge games as a senior against Washington State scoring 24 points, against St Johns with 26 points, against George Mason with 24 points, against Umass with 22 points, against La Salle with 30 points and against George Mason with 23 points again. Each game was lost by 4 points or less. Did you sometimes feel like the basketball God had it in for you as a team?

We were a young team and if you look at this year the experience has paid off and the team is winning games by 4 or more.

How did head coach Phil Martelli groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

With his preparation of working hard and preparing me mentally. He helped to instill a hard work ethic and prepare me mentally for the game.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Chris Clover?

Of course it was me. LOL. Chris is my boy but I won.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

James Denry, DeAndre Bembry, Isiah Miles, Aaron Brown, plus myself of course

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

No particular order, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, and LeBron James

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

I have to start off by saying that LeBron is my idol. I have also watched Jordan play and there are some things that I wished that LeBron would incorporate in his game. Jordan left no question unanswered.

What was the last movie that you saw?

My nephew and I went to see Bumble bee.Thanks Shavar for the chat.