Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.
The winning streak has come to an end as Wurzburg won 91-81. Despite the loss could the loss be like a little blessing in disguise?
This loss could help us get back to playing like was did during first few games. It showed us that we have to play harder and better on defense.
They began 0-6 and now have a 5 game winning streak. This team is for real. Did you underestimate them a bit as a team?
No I don’t think we underestimated them. I ust feel we’ve been playing without our energy in the past couple games and this was just the end of it.
I saw how lethal the Wishart/Steinbach duo was last weekend in Frankfurt, but I think they were a little better this week combining for 37 points, 16 rebounds, 18 assists, 5 steals and 5 blocks. Is that team more than just those 2? Those two are for sure the back bones of the team, but they had a couple guys make some shots. I feel the whole team played hard.
Talk about the first half. They dominated in the first quarter and the RheinStars in the second quarter, but the game was deadlocked at 49-49 at the break. What adjustments did you make as a team in the second quarter? I feel we were just patient and executing like we usually do. We got out of our game and the hurt us.
The RheinStars went on a little run late, but it just wasn´t enough. Was their 22 offensive rebounds the biggest thorn in the side of the RheinStars? Yeah the offensive rebounds hurt us a lot. If we would’ve rebounded better I believe the outcome would have been better than it was.
You had a 8/3/2 game and shot 4/12 from the field. What will be your biggest focus this week in practice? Just practice harder and try to find a rhythm more for myself. I know I can perform better and I will.
You next play against the pesky Oberaching team. What will be key for the win? Getting back to us as a team. Hopefully this loss makes us get back to how we were playing the first couple games of the season. Rebound, be more aggressive on the defense end.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Jordan Theodore in Frankfurt, Germany Dec, 2024
If I had to choose a few former Skyliners from the last decade that of course were still playing now and available that I would have liked to have returned back to Frankfurt to help the team as best as possible, I could pick from one hand about 3 players and they would have been a Philip Scrubb, Joe Voigtman or a Jordan Theodore (183-PG-1989, college: Seton Hall). I mean you can never go wrong with these 3 winners who went on to have great careers after helping Frankfurt win the 2016 Fiba Europe Cup. When I saw the Skyliners press release recently that Jordan Theodore would return for a third tour of duty, I was really overjoyed. He might not have had been able to help keep the team in the easyCredit BBL in 2023, but after I saw how good he was moving and playing in the tough loss against Braunschweig minus the 5 turnovers, I´m optimistic that he can turn the season around for the Skyliners. But was his coming back into a precarious situation a no brainer or more of a difficult decision? “I think that it was more difficult. I have a good relationship with Gunnar Wobke and we had been in contact during the season, I wasn´t sure if I wanted to come back. I always love to play. My thinking had nothing to do with the team record, but with me. I had other offers and said no. Coming back to the Skyliners felt good”, stressed Jordan Theodore. His first 2 tour of duties, he was fortunate to be teammates with Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson, but now he is gone and forever will be remembered. It must be very strange for him being without him. “ It is weird. With him gone, now I´m the oldest. Tez was the heart and soul of the team the last years. Now I don´t want to be here with people thinking, I want to replace him. Nobody could ever replace him. I want to show the young guys how the Skyliners way is. Even if I´m back for a third time, I feel new. Just about everyone is gone from the players to the people in the office. It is kind of like a new organization for me. Klaus Perwas is still here and Gunnar as well. The keys to the heart are still here. I have been getting used to the new guys. It has been fun”, said Jordan Theodore. The Skyliner organization has to mean so much to him, but it definitely isn´t the same like almost a decade ago. “Playing for the Skyliners organization has a very special place in my heart. This is the first place where I feel like home. It really reminds me of home. I have that New York feeling here. Everybody speaks English. It just reminds me of home. I have a few places that are close to my home. Frankfurt is top 2. The feeling isn´t the same. 10 years ago, I was a young kid that had to prove himself. Now it is expected of me to be very good. Back then I didn´t know what to expect, but now I have history. The biggest change is Tez not being here. Back in the 22-23 season, I came back because of Tez. I wanted to play one last time with him”, remembered Jordan Theodore.
Jordan Theodore is a 35 year old 184cm point guard from New Jersey playing his 13th professional season and third with the Frankfurt Skylinmers. Last season he began the season with with Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 13.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 54.5%, 3FGP: 28.3%, FT: 73.2%. and finished with Cazoo Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 3.0ppg, 2.1apg; and in the Euroleague: averaged 3.5ppg, 1.1apg. He also has gotten experience playing in countries like Turkey, Puerto Rico, Italy, Greece and Russia. He played 4 years at Seton Hall (NCAA) from 2008-2012. He is back in Frankfurt now and in a way has to save the team. Despite the record and 3 massive opponents in the next 11 days with Ulm, Ludwigsburg and Munich, he is very optimistic that the team will be successful. “To be honest, I really think that we can win all 3 of them. It´s all about us. We have to play a great game for 40 minutes. We have to have a great offensive and defensive game. Anything can happen. It is never about who has the biggest name or best record, but who comes to compete. The young guys are working hard in practice. It´s all on me. Can I get the most out of them and lead them well? We will be ready”, warned Jordan Theodore. He has only been here a short while, and can´t give a real impression of the team yet, but knows what the team has to do in the next games to win. “That is hard to say. I didn´t watch too much of the team before I got here. I know that we have won all the cup games so far. Not having a veteran has been tough, but now I´m here. We are getting better every day. We are competing better. The young players have to learn from their mistakes. We need to grow, but it won´t happen overnight. We will become better. We need to be focused for 40 minutes and play at a high level. We also need good communication and stick together. Basketball should be fun. It isn´t always easy to add a player like me, but I´m not selfish. We have had flashes with my leadership. We have to grow with that”, stressed Jordan Theodore.
He has only been with the club a short while, but he has gotten to know the games of some of his teammates especially the 2 explosive Americans Trey Calvin and Malik Parsons. Does he see a little of him in their play as young players? “I don´t know. They are tremendous players and very athletic. We come from different places. They work hard and are eager to learn. They are gym rats. They are always seeking knowledge. I´m really happy to be with them. I can be ball dominated and I want to contribute at a high level, but at the same time not take anything away from their games”, warned Jordan Theodore. One guy he is really impressed with is Danish champion Malik Parsons who has had huge games and is on the radar of Euroleague teams. “He is very talented. He can score and is very athletic. He can go as far as he wants to. Sky is the limit for him. Calvin and him are better shooters than I was at their ages”, said Jordan Theodore. “Other teammates that he is also dazzled by is the play of 2 hero´s from last season´s Pro A team David Muenkat and Booker Cooplin who are vital parts of the team. “I call Dave the next Tez. He is the heart and soul and can do it all. He is always playing with energy. You can ask him to do anything. He can play 1-5 like Tez did. Booker is a very hard worker and can also do a lot of things. He has been under the radar and now can shine. Both are the kind of guys that you want on a team. They are fighters which is a unique trait to have in today´s game. I´m proud to have them on the team”, added Jordan Theodore. A lot has changed in the game of 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke as well as he is continuing to make big steps in his game. “Lorenz was actually hurt when I was here the last time. He is also a unique talent. He is a lefty with a nice touch around the rim. He works hard and is a fighter. He is always the first guy in the gym. He will become great in the next years”, commented Jordan Theodore.
Jordan Theodore is 35 years old and isn´t the youngest anymore, but he still has game. He has been competing and being consistent at a high level for years. Despite the 5 turnovers in the loss to Braunschweig, he looked very good in many other areas of his offensive game. He is confident that he still has much more to offer in the next games. “I work out 1-2 times a day even when I´m not playing basketball. Basketball has brought me therapy my whole life. Whenever I did something bad as a kid or had hardships in my career, I always used basketball as a fuel. I honestly think that you haven´t seen my best yet. I haven´t really played since last May when I was in Spain. I´m just coming back to my game again now. I think that in the next games, I will be even quicker, make better reads and be better defensively”, expressed Jordan Theodore. He has seen a lot in the last 9 years and played in many different leagues. With more experience, he also has grown as a player and added new things. “I can shoot off the dribble better. I knew I would be all over the place in the first games back. I had too many turnovers, but that was because I hadn´t practiced enough with the team yet. I will fix the turnovers”, warned Jordan Theodore. He is also a different kind of leader now than in 2016. It is definitely much more of a challenge now than then. “Now it is harder to lead. When I was younger, I was always a gym rat. I was firey and had responses to Gordy Herbert. But now as an older guy you can´t talk back to the coach. It is not good to do that in front of the young players. I´m always asking questions and am eager to learn. I have been around the game for a long time and have seen so much. If I question a coach now, it isn´t to belittle him, but to ask questions that might make it easier for the younger guys to understand”, stated Jordan Theodore. Some may think that this might be his last destination as a player, but he is hopeful the ride will continue. “I just love the game. 5 years ago, people would ask me if I might coach one day, but I said no. I didn´t want to manage players on a daily level and have to deal with ego´s. But then I began to train my nephew and it brought me so much joy. I never forced the game on him. I always told him, call me when your ready. Then I got that call one day and he told me that he wanted to play. I fell in love with the game again and want to coach when my playing days are over. I feel like I still have to prove myself. I still see myself having 2-3 good more years ahead of me”, warned Jordan Theodore. His zeal for the game is still so strong. “ I enjoy being together with the guys every day and just enjoy everything that comes with it. When your young, you never think about the ride coming to an end. Now I´m at an age where I have to be prepared of teams saying they might not want me because of my age. I really enjoy being like a teacher now. I want to help the young point guards, I want to show them the most that this is how we do it”, laughed Jordan Theodore.
Even if the win of the Fiba Europe Cup is more than 8,5 years ago, the bond to his teammates is still there. He is a very outgoing guy and was one of the leaders on that championship team. It would be strange if he had only contact to a few. “To be honest I talk to all. I have with relationships with all from Mike Mo, Aaron Doornekamp, Sean Armand (even if he was from the 2014-2015 season), Phil Scrubb, Danilo Barthel, Gordie Herbert (He is my guy. He is a mentor for me, we speak all the time), Konsti, Klein, John Little, Max Merz, Johannes Richter, Tomas Dimsa and Garai Zeeb (he is my little bro). I have spoken to Joe Voigtmann in a while, but played against him since then”, said Jordan Theodore. He and Quantez Robertson have birthdays only 5 days apart and are like family. A few days ago Tez turned 40 years old. It is only obvious that he has the most special relationship to him. “He is my dog. I love that guy. He is texting me now as were talking. I have so much to say to him, but then again not enough to say. He is a great leader and captain. You always pick a leader after you won a title. He showed that by remaining in Frankfurt after the Fiba title. I told him after to go to Turkey to get some money, but I´m so happy he stayed. He said no. He said that Frankfurt was in his heart. I´m so honored to stand in the arena and look up at his jersey”, stated Jordan Theodore. With Christmas around the corner, he only has one wish for Christmas and that is peace everywhere. Jordan Theodore wasn´t able to save the Skyliners in 2022-2023, but now he can get revenge on that season and hopefully bring back some of that magic from the 2015-2016 season. I´m confident he can, because this guy still has much game left in his tank. It is only logical that he also wants to make his good friend Tez proud.
EJ Dambreville (191-G, college: FSC) is a 191cm guard that was born in Dorcehester, Mass and is playing his second professional season and second in Denmark and first with the Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He palyed his rookie season with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 9.8ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 75.3% and with Marineros de Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic-LNB) averaging 5.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg. He began his basketball career at Woodstock Academy and then played at Florida Southern College (NCAA2) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 126 games and averaged 18.1ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 85.2% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks EJ for talking to germanhops.com. Your playing second pro season in Denmark with historic Danish team Bakken Bears. What kind of an experience has it been so far? What have you enjoyed most about the time?
It has been a great experience so far. I think what I’ve enjoyed the most is being able to learn from the older guys that we have on the team. They have a lot of pro experience all over the world and at very high levels so being able to pick their brains and learn from them is something I’m grateful for and enjoy the most.
The club is used to winning titles. How present is that winning culture on a daily basis? You won 2 SSC titles so you know what winning is like. Winning is the standard. We are expected to win every time we step on the court. So our approach everyday is just that. Which feels very similar to my teams in college that were able to win conference championships.
You hail from the east coast and live in Denmark. What have you learned to appreciate the most about the tranquility of Denmark?
I’ve appreciated everything about Denmark. The culture, the weather and the people. Adapting to living here the last couple years was easy in some ways but the things that aren’t easy to adapt as quickly, I actually appreciate the most. That’s what makes this experience as an overseas pro special.
Your playing in the ENBL and will face off against German team Bamberg. What do you know in general about the country and it´s basketball? Do you know that Germany is current world champion?
I actually went to Germany in high school with a team to play against some of their clubs, so I know basketball is big out there and they have high level players. I also have some close people to me that are from Germany so I ha’ve been informed on a lot of things about Germany.
Do you have any former teammates or opponents that have balled in Germany? Yes, I do. I have a couple people that I know that have played in Germany.
What has it been like being teammates with Skyler Bowlin. Has his leadership qualities rubbed off on you? It’s been great being teammates with sky. I’ve tried to be a sponge around him as much as possible. He has had a great career and that is something I want for myself as well so I always try to watch and learn from him.
How valuable is a guy like Urald King for the young players? Has he been like a mentor for you?
Urald is super valuable. Leader on the court. Has a strong voice in the locker room. Leads by example. He has a great story as well, working his way up the ranks of the overseas basketball world. So there is so much to learn from him and I’m appreciative to have him as a teammate.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 191cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I never really thought about who I would compare to as an NBA player. A lot of people say I play like Lou Williams, Jr Smith, Malik Beasley. I would say I play with passion and energy like Russell Westbrook.
You’re a very versatile offensive player that fills the stat sheet well. How big is versatility a staple in your game?
It’s huge for me. I just try to impact the game in as many ways as possible to win the game. I feel like the more versatile you are the more helpful to the team you will be.
You are an unbelievable rebounder and averaged close to 12 per game in your last 3 seasons in the NCAA2. Did you do anything different in those last years to make such a big jump on the boards? No, I just played with confidence. My first couple years in high school I played the 4 and my job was to get rebounds and be athletic. If I wanted to score I had to get offensive rebounds and tip ins. So that helped develop my nose for the ball. my freshman year in college I had a rough year overall and didn’t play that much. But once I figured out my confidence everything started to fall into place.
Your three pointer continues to be a work in progress. Talk a little about the development of your three pointer. What are your biggest goals as a shooter? I know I’m a great shooter. it’s all mental and staying confident in my shots. I will always put the work in and trust the work to show on the court.
Your also a very good defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? I’m a very aggressive and physical defender. I like to be active and just make things harder for the offensive man. I want to continue to work on my defensive skills so that I can be a lockdown defender for multiple positions.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? During the season I’m really focusing on growing in my role. Just be a defensive dog on the court, bringing energy, rebounding and knocking down shots when they are there. That is my focus now. Just being the best I can be in those spots.
You played your rookie season with Team FOG Naestved (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 9.8ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 75.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? Getting on the 9 hour plane ride. I knew I was nowhere close to home but I was going to figure things out no matter what.
You also played with Marineros de Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic-LNB) avergagng 5.5ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg. What kind of an experience was that for you? What main positives could you attain from that? It was a good experience. I learned a lot about myself. Both on and off the court. Very different from the Danish league but I pride myself on being able to adapt to any situation. So overall it was a positive period of growth.
You played 5 years at Florida Southern College (NCAA2). You made a huge jump in your game in your last 3 years. How did your game grow in that time?
By staying in the gym, continuously working on different parts of my game, getting mentally stronger and believing in myself. And a great support group around me.
You won 2 SSC titles. Which one was sweeter?
The 2nd title was sweeter because I felt like I actually had a part in it. My freshman year I barely played but my sophomore year I was a starter so that felt great.
You had so many great games at Florida Southern. What was your fondest moment on the court?
I had so many great memories, individually and as a team but I would have to say winning that 2nd championship in 2020. We won at home. We were 29-2 on the season and about to host the NCAA tournament being the 1st seed in our region before covid happened. That was a great moment.
How did head coach Mike Donnelly groom and prepare you best for a pro career?
He allowed me to be myself. On and off the court. He allowed me to make mistakes and play through them. I was able to develop year by year knowing that he trusted me.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Xavier Rhodes?
lol! I don’t know if we ever played 1-1 in practice but when we competed it was always a dog fight. X is a great player and a great person.
Who is the toughest player you ever face din the NCAA that reached the NBA?
I can’t think of anyone that I played in college that plays in the NBA. but the toughest player I played against was my teammate Brett Hanson. He was d2 player of the year. I guarded him in practice everyday and he was just so tough to handle.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? I have so many great teammates. But if this is based on the best players iIplayed with I would say Cole Swider, Brett Hanson, Jon Lawton, Selim Fofana, Skylar Bowlin. (based on careers)
Your NBA Mount Rushmore?
LEBRON, KOBE, KYRIE, STEPH, JORDAN
Your Who is your GOAT?
LEBRON JAMES
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I’ve heard of it but I’ve never seen that movie.
How often does one hear about rich athletes going from the top of the mountain down to the gutter with losing their whole fortune that they made playing the game that they love. In the NBA, there have been those amazing players like an Antoine Walker, Vin Baker and Glen Rice who made millions, but then lost it all. Fortunately for them all have recovered and have found a way to get back into society and turn their lives around for them. A very good majority of professional players overseas will never make millions before their playing careers are over, but they also have to know how to handle their money while playing and have some sort of plan b ready when the day comes when they hang up their sneakers. One of those guys is Jacob Polakovich (208-C-2000, college: S.Indiana). He hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan and has parents that have separate business´s that are flourishing. His late dad Jimmy owned a restaurant called South Side Jimmy´s while his mom started up a flower market. Having such ambitious parents like that can steer a son in that direction one day. Their direction helped him decide to pursue a management degree at the Romain college of Business at the University of Southern Indiana. There is a good chance he will go into the family business, but if he had a choice to start his own business, he would know exactly which kind it would be. “If I started another business, I would want to open an animal shelter or some business where I can help give animals and dogs specifically better homes”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He is only in his second professional season and still has a long playing career ahead of him, but he understands now that he has to be prepared one day to be a business man. “I think that the most important thing is to work on maintaining and creating connections with people. In most situations you will learn more and have more opportunities from knowing the right people and through having a positive reputation. I also try to learn where I can from reading different books and talking to people who have jobs that interest me”, warned Jacob Polakovich.
Jacob Polakovich who lists ex Auburn (NCAA) player Jabari Smith as his toughest opponent in school was born on May 1st, 2000 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He began his basketball career at Catholic Central high school and then played at the University of Indianapolis (NCAA) from 2018-2020 amassing a total of 55 games. In his freshman season he averaged 2,3ppg and 3,4 boards in 8 minutes, but then made a drastic jump to 18 minutes and averaged 8,4ppg and 6,5rpg in his second season. There was a distinct reason for his why his game was propelled to new heights. “The biggest thing for me between those two seasons was getting into better physical condition. I lost. 15 pounds and came back a better, faster, and stronger version of myself”, remembered Jacob Polakovich. He hit Mckendree for 16 points and UMSL for 15 points while having a massive 14/14 performance against Maryville, MO. Despite making a jump in his second season, he transferred to the University of Southern Indiana following his coaches John Spruance and Stan Gouard. He proved there that he could adjust from division 2 to division 1. In his 2 seasons there he averaged 11.5ppg, 11.3rpg, FGP: 61.7% and as a senior 12.2ppg, 12.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 55.9%, FT: 51.4%. “I think that my game grew after moving up a division because I was playing with a chip on my shoulder. I had no Division 1 offers coming out of high-school even though I knew I was good enough to play at that level, and took every game as an opportunity to prove that to myself”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He had many stellar games like having a 27/10 game in the exciting 82-81 win over UALR or 27 points/26 rebounds in the tight win over Semo or a 28/12 game in a win over UIS. “The best memory I have from NCAA 2 was being named the 1 seed in the NCAA tournament my sophomore year. I really do believe that we would have won the national championship that season if covid never happened”, added Jacob Polakovich. He had 5 games with 20 or more rebounds in his senior year and understood what it took to be able to achieve such wild stats. “I think that’s a testament to my work ethic and extremely high motor. Ever since I remember, I was never the fastest or most athletic player on the court so I learned at a young age that if I was able to use a combination of strength and an extremely high motor, I would be able to affect the game in ways that other players don’t necessarily want to. I truly believe that the best way to make a large impact on the game is to do all of the little things the right way. And one of those little things is chasing after every single missed shot and loose ball with 100% intensity”, warned Jacob polakovich. Who knows how his game might have developed further under a different coaching staff, but being able to play for the same coaches for 4 years had a massive impact on him on and off the court. “I could not put a price on the impact Coach Gouard, Spruance, and Aldridge had on not only my career, but also my development as a young man. They invested so much time and energy into me and dreams, and I can honestly say that I would not be anywhere near the player I am today without them. They taught me that if I had the right commitment and work ethic, I can play at any level and be effective”, warned Jacob Polakovich who remembers beating teammate Nick Hittle in 1-1 battles in practice..
The Michigan native who lists Jimmy king, Jordache Mavunga, Jelani Simmons, Marcus Bingham, and Austin Braun as his 5 best teammates of all-time began his professional career overseas with Moncada Energy Agrigento (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 10.1ppg, Reb-1 (10.8rpg), 1.1apg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 46.2%. It is never easy making the transition from your comfort zone in school to being on your own overseas and every guy has their own wake up call to being a rookie. “I remember when we went through a stretch early where we lost a handful of games in a row, and I did not play near the level that I know I am capable of. I found myself constantly beating myself up and stressing about how my play would affect my future, instead of being thankful for the position I had put myself in to play professional basketball in the first place. Once I reminded myself that I was living out the dream that I had worked so hard to achieve, I found myself playing better and enjoying myself much more too”, commented Jacob Polakovich. He scored in double figures 20 times and registered 16 double doubles. He had a monster game against Milano Riana of 16/24, but wasn´t totally content with his own effort. “Directly after, I was disappointed in myself after that game for the way I played defensively, and it really felt like a game that we had won until some mistakes at the end. Looking back though I think that that game was a great testament to the style of basketball I play, and the way that I am able to affect the game through my strength and energy”, expressed Jacob Polakovich. Making bonds right away with teammates is always beneficial in helping with the adjustment as he witnessed with fellow big man Mait Peterson. “Mait and I both had a lot of similarities in our playstyles and became good friends off the court as well. The main way we made each other better in practice every day was by playing as physical as possible every single day”, added Jacob Polakovich.
The rebound monster who lists Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Micheal Jordan, Shaquille O´Neal, and Tim Duncan on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his second professional season with the Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He hasn´t regretted making this decision to move to Denmark. “So far, it has been an amazing experience to play at such a historical club. You can tell that the culture here runs deep from talking to everybody involved with the club at every level; from those that work in the offices, to the coaches and players. The most enjoyable part of playing for Bakken has been competing in European competition through the ENBL, and seeing how we match up with top teams from other countries. I have learned to love how much Denmark, and Aarhus specifically, has felt so similar to home. There are obviously days where I am homesick and missing family, but the people here have been so welcoming that I really do enjoy my time here”, said Jacob Polakovich. The organization has won an incredible 33 titles and they are simply used to winning. “Being a part of such a historical task comes with a lot of pressures to win and perform, however I think what makes Bakken so successful is the ways they are able to truly make it feel like one big family. No player or staff member is treated above another, and we are all a unit working towards the same final goal; two championships. I feel that I have been able to learn a lot about my game since arriving here, and will only learn more from all of the great basketball minds around me before the season comes to an end”, stated Jacob Polakovich. He has amazing teammates especially with veterans Urald King and Skyler Bowlin who could tell him some tales from the German culture and it´s basketball. “Urald has already had a huge impact on me and the way I see the game. He is another person similar to Skyler in the way that they are both great players, but even better people. I try my best to constantly ask both of them questions and try to take the opportunity to learn where I can, because I hope to have similar careers to both of them. Playing with Skyler has been a great opportunity to learn how to be a better leader on and off the court. He has helped me realize just how much your reputation off the court matters to help boost your career, and when you look at the success he has had; it proves that”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He may only be in his second professional season, but he has enough experience to help young Danish player Andreas Holst with his game. “Andreas is a special young talent. Even in the few months I have been here, I have seen him improve at very fast rate. I think that he has the chance to be an amazing player, especially after a couple more years of development. The main way I try to help him develop is by trying to be physical with him, and teaching him to be more physical with others”, added Jacob Polakovich.
The ex Indianapolis (NCAA) center who lists Lebron James as his GOAT and believes that the classic Coming To America flick with Eddie Murphy should have been left alone is a center that would compare his game to a Domantas Sabonas mainly because of how physical he is and because he plays with a high motor. He has shown no difficulty coming from Italy and being consistent in the Danish league having 11/6 stats in 20 minutes and 11/7 stats in the ENBL. “My role on this team is to be an enforcer on the inside, and to bring a different level of physicality and energy every minute I am on the floor. I think that when I am attacking the glass hard and exploiting mismatches, I am helping the team in the best way I can”, warned Jacob Polakovich. He is so much more than just a scorer and rebounder, but also has that playmaking skills in his game. “I think that I am a much better passer than my Assist numbers show. I am a very confident passer playing out of short rolls and post ups, and feel that I am underrated in that aspect”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. On the defensive end, he is a player that can affect the game in other ways than just registering many steals and blocks. “Defensively I do think that I affect the game positively in different ways. Mainly as a rebounder, but also through my physical presence inside the paint. I think that although I don’t block a lot of shots or make a lot of steals, I play with an energy and intensity that most players do not match”, stated Jacob Polakovich. He is continuing to develop, but at the same time also improving his game at both ends. “ The main thing I am working on this season is my perimeter defense for sure. I want to become a player who can defend all positions, and think that I am slowly improving at that aspect. The other thing that I have been trying to incorporate in my game this season is an outside shot. It is something that I have been working at on my own, and think that I have the ability to be great at”, warned Jacob Polakovich. In the ENBL, he is battling against Bamberg, a team that once belonged to the best clubs in the easyCredit BBL. He is aware of how much respected the BBL is. “The main thing I know about the Bundesliga is that it is one of the most competitive basketball leagues in the world. From the top of the league to the bottom, every team has an extremely high level of talent. I think that it will be a great test not only for the team, but I am excited to also test myself against such a high level team”, said Jacob Polakovich. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop. Who knows, he may pull a Skyler Bowlin. Back In the 2015-2016 season, Skyler Bowlin suited up with the Sodertalje Kings (Sweden-Basketligan) and hit Frankfurt with 18 points in a Fiba Europe Cup game. Head coach Denis Wucherer witnessed him and signed him for the next season with Pro A team Giessen. Bowlin was an instrumental part in the team moving up to the BBL a season later. Who knows, maybe one day we will see Jacob Polakovich battling bigs in the easyCredit BBL.
Urald King (198-F-1990, college: SE Oklahoma) is a 34 year old 198cm forward from West Monroe, Louisiana playing his 9th professional season and first with the Bakken Bears ( (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He has gathered experience in Iceland where he played parts of 4 seasons as well as in countries like Germany, France, Finland, Austria and Israel. He began his basketball career at West Monroe high school and then played at Southeastern Oklahoma State University (NCAA) from 2010-2014 and as a senior averaged 16.9ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, FT: 67.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Urald for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 9th pro season and for your 11th team. How much do you feel like a basketball globe trotter? I absolutely feel like a globe trotter. I look at it as a blessing to have clubs from different countries that want me to be a part of their organization and the opportunity to travel around the world.
9 years you were a rookie with TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-2.Regionalliga). If someone had told you then that you would have won 6 titles and played in all these countries what would you have thought?
I probably would have laughed. People see me now and think my plan was to play in Europe and be a veteran. I never had any aspirations to play professionally (overseas). My start was from a very small league in Germany so to make it from there and to have as an accomplished career as I have is amazing.
I know you have always had a chip on your shoulder. How does it feel playing for a great organization like Bakken Bears? Do you feel blessed every day to be playing the game you love?
Making it to this point and having the opportunity to play for a club like Bakken, I definitely don´t take it for granted. I played against them 2 years ago in Champions League Qualifiers and I didn’t have my best performance but they were impressed by what they saw and followed me up until the point where they can present me with an opportunity to join their club. Every practice and every game I feel blessed because I know it’s guys who don’t get the opportunity or don’t last long (over here) for numerous of reasons. And for me to receive opportunities year after year means a lot to me and the people I represent!
You have won 6 titles already and have a good chance to add on this season. How much do you feel that winning vibe with the Bears? Bakken had a rich history of winning championships so from the very first day we knew what the expectations are and would be. We can feel the winning vibes every day in practice by the way we’re coached and the ways we compete and push each other.
You have always been a lethal scorer, but also a guy that does everything at both ends of the court. What is your role this season? I just love basketball and I taught myself at a young age to play hard and give it 100%. Honestly speaking I never look at myself as a scorer. I know I’ve had games where I’ve scored 40, 36, 34, and even had 20 pts & 20 rbs. I look at myself like someone who’s adaptable. So my role with Bakken is to score, be an inside presence, but also be a key leader on defense.
What has it been like sharing the court with Skyler Bowlin? Do you guys share the leadership duties?
Between us, I don’t like the guy, I’m just kidding. Seriously, it’s been great sharing the court with him. He’s a veteran guy and he’s poised. He does a great job of leading the team by words and actions. He’s our true leader on the team but I have the knowledge to lead us along side of him or take the lead when he’s off the court.
You have always been a great rebounder. What has been your secret to being such a consistent rebounder for years despite your height?
I can’t give away all my tricks but I would contribute my rebounding abilities to 3 things: 1. My relentlessness 2. Positioning and understanding timing 3. My athleticism.
You have always been a defender that made an impact on the defensive end. How have you grown as a defender over the years?
Learning the scouting report is extremely important so you can learn your opponent’s tendencies faster. Also I’ve always been good at controlling where I want the offense players to go; whether that’s in the post by placing my hands on their hip to guide them to the direction I want them to go or on the perimeter by giving them a side and being able to cut off the ball handler.
Last season you spent time in Peja and Austria. How tough is it in general to bounce around during a season? How do you handle it now at this point of your career? Last year was extremely tough for me moving from club to club. Under most situations, that truly only happens when a player gets fired but my circumstances were different. I was also in Israel (Ma’ale Adumim) and I woke up to the news of a war being broken out. I was only in Peja on a loan deal even though the contract was offered to be extended I chose to leave because of the conditions living there. Austria was interesting, it was a familiar league but ultimately it was a team with a lot of talent but no chemistry. At this stage in my career I’m looking for more stability, I’ve been a globe trotter but I’m looking for somewhere to call home until I choose to retire.
In 22-23 you won 2 titles with the Basket Swans Gmunden (Austria-BSL) averaging 16.9ppg, Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 1.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 43.4%, FT: 71.6%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 16.5ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 68.0%. What was so special about this winning team? It was so special to me because we understood each other and had a true bond. Coach Anton offered us great leadership but we players encouraged each other. Also we had a lot of time to become familiar with each other because of the travels with Champions League Qualifiers & FIBA Eurocup. Also when it comes to legacy I think about 10-20 years from now when I’m done playing, knowing I’ll forever be a part of Gmuden Swans history with 3 championships (not 2).
You lost a tough 3 game series to Klosterneuburg where you lost 2 tough games and had great games. What will you always remember form that series? Mainly how disappointing that team was. We had a team built to win a championship but we never developed the right chemistry and it was too much selfishness and individual play within the team.
In 2021-2022 you played with KTP Basket Kotka (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 14.6ppg, Reb-5 (8.3rpg), 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 71.1%. There you were teammates with veteran Richie Williams who played many years in Germany. How often did the word Germany come up?
Rich (as I call him) is a great guy, one of the things you want to do as a Big is develop a relationship with your point guards. So, we would talk all the time about our careers and we spoke on Germany a lot. He actually came to watch my series in Gmuden vs Wels & Vienna in the semifinals and finals in 2023.
In 2019-2020 you played with SO Maritime Boulogne (France-NM1) averaging 11.4ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 50.0%, in Jan.’20 moved to Stjarnan (Iceland-Dominos League) averaging 17.2ppg, Reb-3 (10.7rpg), 1.1bpg, FGP: 55.1%, FT: 80.0%. What memories do you have of the NM1. That league has grown in recent years.Is that one of the better third divisions in Europe? I have fond memories of playing in NM1, with it being a 3rd league it’s very good competition. I was impressed how good the locals were. Being an American so much is put on our backs to perform but that was the first league I played in where a French player was as good if not better than the Americans and could easily lead the team in major statical categories. I also had some great off the court experiences with those guys!
You played in Iceland from 2016-2019 first with Valur Reykjavik (Iceland-Division I) avergaing 22.6ppg, Reb-3 (12.4rpg), 2.9apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), Blocks-1 (2.5bpg), FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 68.0% and later with U.M.F. Tindastoll Sauoarkrokur in your last season. How special was helping Valur move up in your second pro season? Those Value years were pivotal for me. Being a part of a club with a rich history and helping them achieve their goals of moving to The Dominos League (now Subway League) was a major milestone not only for them but for to show people that I’m a winner. I still tell people that Valur holds a special place in my heart and watching their recent success I feel like I’m a part of it.
You were teammates with Austin Bracey for 2 seasons. Did you guys become like brothers? I have nothing but respect for Austin in the time we spend together being a part of Valur in the First League and Domino. However, unfortunately we didn’t form a brother like bond, just teammates.
How great was it living in Iceland for those 3 years? What was the coolest moment you had off the court?
It was an indescribable experience. The country is beautiful and welcoming. I can go on and on about all the memories I made but I’ll say my top two are. 1. My cousin from Los Angeles came to visit for me a week, he watched serval (playoff) games & we went to the Golden Circle together. 2. I formed a closed bond with a lot of the American players (men and women) from the 2017-2018 year. We would hang out together, play card games, go out bowling, and even party together. One in particular is Jeremy Smith. He’s a fellow Louisiana native being from New Orleans and I’m from West Monroe we formed a bond. We still talk at least once a month.
At the same time you paid your dues for 3 years. You were playing great and proved in the first division that you were a top player. How big was the grind? How did you grow as a player and man in these years that helped you make the next step to higher leagues?
One key thing for me is I learned who I was off the court. I learned to embrace the down time, whether it was being alone in my apartment or understanding the gym is available in the morning for a hour window so let’s make sure I’m there for some individual work. Those hours that went unseen directly lead to my success on the court.
You played your rookie season in Germany with TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-2.Regionalliga). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call was literally my first day haha. I arrived in Bad Aibling and had my first European breakfast. After we were done eating, I went to my room for a nap and when I woke I sat on the edge of my bed and said to myself “I’m really in Germany”. At that point the realization and culture shock set in.
You played at Southeastern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) from 2010-2014 and made a massive jump as a senior averaging 16.9ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, FT: 67.1%. How did your game grow in your last season?
I understood it was my team and a lot of the offense load would fall on my shoulders. I remember my Coach Kelly Green called me into his office and asked me directly “do you think you can play 40 minutes”, I said “yes”, next thing he said was “good, you’re playing 40 minutes”. That let me know he had all the faith and confidence in me!
You had many great games, but what was your greatest game in the NCAA2?
This question is an awkward one for me haha. The reason being is I remember my first break out game, I had an unofficial triple-double. I finished the game with 31 pts, 11 rbs, and 11 turnover, yes I said turnovers vs University of Central Oklahoma. The reason this one stands out so much is because of the 11 turnovers of course but this was my first break out game in my basketball career. They were pressing us and every time we got across half court it seemed as if I scored but in the times we didn’t it seemed like I turned the ball over. Probably not the one you were expecting huh?
How did head coach Kelly Green groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Green instilled confidence in me from day 1 and helped me bring out my leadership qualities. He taught me to trust my instincts and play hard. Even though I’m 9 years in, a lot the advice he gave me then still applies now.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Lonzie Tyler? Me and Tyler never played 1 v 1 but he definitely gave me some good battles 5 v 5.
Who is the toughest player you ever face din the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Coming from a smaller background I didn’t get the opportunity to play against too many high level guys until my professional career. Honestly the closest I’ve ever gotten to it was Mike James (who plays for Monaco), we were Junior College teammates at Eastern Arizona College.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? In no order, Daniel Friedrich, Flenard Whitfield, David Bergfeld, Kyle Johnson, and Ingimar Baldursson
Your NBA Mount Rushmore? Brandon Roy, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Tydrick King (my big brother)
Your Who is your GOAT? My goat is Lebron but my favorite player of all time is Brandon Roy
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Haha great final question. I did see it, I enjoyed the movie. Was it as good as the orginal, no but I liked it. Eddie Murphy can do no wrong!
Quantez Robertson (188-SG-1984, college: Auburn, agency: Interperformances) is a former professional player that played 14 seasons for only one organization with the Fraport Skyliners. He won the 2016 FIBA Europe Cup and reached the 2010 easyCredit BBL final. His stats for 14 years were 479 games, 4,425 points, 2217 rebounds, 742 steals in 15,034 minutes. He spoke to germanhoops.com on his 40th birthday.
Happy Birthday Tez. How does it feel to be 40 years old? It really doesn´t feel any different. It is a nice round figure.
Would you feel less old if you were still active as a player? Yes I think so. I´d be lying if said no.
How are you celebrating the big 40 today? Right now I´m with my baby girl. We will go to dinner and hang out.
No big 40th birthday? Not on a Monday.
How cool is it now celebrating in the States as opposed to in Germany? What is different?
It is different because now I´m at home and can celebrate with family in friends. In Germany I celebrated with my team who were my extended family.
Was it a challenge as a kid celebrating it less than a week before Xmas? Did you still get enough presents? Not really. They had to ration it out. Half now and half on Christmas.
How does a birthday like this feel different than the last big one 10 years ago? I was still playing ball 10 years ago. Now I´m watching my kids become great athletes.
What are you most thankful about now that you have reached 40?
I´m thankful for good health, having had a great career, my wife who made me a cake every year even if some of them looked funny and my kids.
What were some of the gifts that you got from your kids? No yet, but they will. Last year my daughter gave me a hat and shirt while my son gave me a wallet with a couple of dollars.
Who were some of the ballers that congratulated you for your birthday?
Some of the guys from the Skyliners. The Skyliners congratulated me on social media and posted some nice highlight clips and pics. Family and friends also congratulated me.
How is retired life treating you? You have a new coaching job right? I´m coaching in Juco at Tennessee Valley Community Christian
Jordan Theodore is back for a third time. How cool is that?
That is pretty nice to see. He will make things happen again like in the past. He made a post saying he wants to be like me and play many years with the Skyliners
Will Theodore be able to get the Skyliners back on track? I think he will. He still has some good basketball in him. He has shown that in the last years.
Who wins a 1-1 today you or Jordan Theodore? It will be close, but I will get him.
The up and down weeks of the EPG Guardians Koblenz continue last week in Hagen as they couldn´t follow up the massive win at home against Tuebingen which was possibly the biggest victory for Koblenz up to that stand point in the season. The next opponent on paper was ex easyCredit BBL team Hakro Merlins who surprisingly were only at 6-6 in the standings and dumpling around in no man´s land of the standings at one spot higher than the Guardians. Crailsheim is a team filled with unending offensive power, but on the defensive end at times can be beaten if attacked correctly. Once again Koblenz was home again looking for a massive answer after a loss and after beating Tuebingen were very focused to be that next BBL spoiler. Ex Guardian big man Gabriel De Olveira was back in his old stomping ground and extra motivated looking to mix it up with his ex teammates. On a very mild Monday night the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim jumped all over the EPG Guardians and dominated the game for 40 minutes with their physicality, brutal 1-1 qualities and three point efficiency. “We played a good game for 40 minutes. Our aggressive defense did a good job not letting them get to the free throw line. We are a great offensive team, but our emphasis is defense. When we do that well, our offense takes care of it´s self. We are now chasing the top teams. Every win is important”, stressed Crailsheim guard Devon Goodman (184-PG-1997, college: Pennsylvania). The EPG Guardians had problems all night getting into their sets and getting good shots. The tough Merlins physicality haunted Crailsheim all night long. “They are a big tough team. Their physicality was tough. We played until the end and gave our best. Whenever we punched, they punched back and then all started hitting three´s. We have to live with it”, stressed Koblenz guard Allin Blunt.
Ty Cockfield at the FT line
In the first quarter the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim got going quickly and got a big lead and never looked back leading easily 28-15 after 10 minutes. Crailsheim took the rapid 10-2 lead as ex Rhondorf guard Tyreese Blunt added 5 points while ex Nurnberg Forward Anthony Gaines made a lay in and ex Tuebingen center Danniel Keppler made a lay in. Koblenz had massive problems containing their physicality and athleticism on the drive. Crailsheim´s aggressive and good 1-1 defense didn´t allow Koblenz into their sets and the Guardians were unable to get them more often into the set play, but allowed them to run. Ty Cockfield was the only Guardian that was somewhat aggressive as he got 4 points on the free throw line. The Merlins continued to be aggressive attacking the paint as Keppler continued to execute with a hard 2 handed dunk and runner for the 14-4 advantage. Koblenz finally began to execute going on a 6-2 run to trail 16-10 as they were aggressive and were rewarded with 3 buckets inside from Adi-Eri, ex BBL player Leon Friederici and Czech Republic forward David Boehm. But that punch didn´t rattle Crailsheim as they closed out the first quarter strong with a 12-5 run to lead by 13 minutes after one quarter. In the run, the guests received got super support from their bench as ex Liberty University (NCAA) forward Brock Gardner supplied 5 points with a three pointer while ex Arizona Christian University (NAIA) player Callum Lawson also added 5 points with a trey. Koblenz got little support except from American Michael Bradley who supplied 5 points and a trey. “We were unable to match their physicality at both ends. They have great 1-1 qualities”, stressed EPG Guardians sport director Thomas Klein.
Allin Blunt from downtown
In the second quarter the EPG Guardians picked up their game at both ends, but still were far away from getting over the hump as Crailsheim led by 13 points at the break. Koblenz was wide awake in the first 3 minutes going on a 6-0 run to trail 28-21 as the guests were stopped 5 times. The EPG Guardians were aggressive attacking the rim and getting 2 buckets from Friederici and one from ex Canadian and ex Laurier big man Ben Stevens. Koblenz did a good job getting past the first pass which then gave the Merlins problems as Koblenz was in the set play. Ex FC Bayern Munich NBBL player Mohammed Sillah finally got the Merlins on the board at the 6,57 minute mark with an offensive rebound and putback to lead 30-21. Koblenz continued to execute and hang in there going on a 7-3 run to trail only 33-28. In the run, they got support from Allin Blunt with a trey and 4 points in the paint by Stevins. But there is only so much time a team like the Merlins can´t be in total offense mode as they struck back fiercely and closed out the second quarter with a lethal 16-6 run to extend their lead to 48-34 at half-time. In the run the Merlins got three pointers from Tyreese Blunt and ex North Dakota State (NCAA) Vinnie Shahid and a floater by Keppler and another lay in by Tyreese Blunt. “We played better, but missed to many easy shots. We could have had at least 10 points more. We still gave up too many transition baskets and allowed them to often to the free throw line.
Ladarian Griffin at the FT line
In the third quarter the EPG Guardians had a solid scoring quarter with 21, but couldn´t make any ground allowing 29 points as the Blunt and Goodman show took over giving the Merlins the comfortable 77-55 advantage after 3 quarters. Before the Blunt and Goodman show could commence, it was actually the Leon Friderici show that took off. The ex Heidelberg sniper erupted for 8 points nailing 2 three´s and making a thunderous 2 hand dunk after making a steal. The EPG Guardians were still in striking distance trailing only 56-44. Friederici was without a doubt the best Guardian on this night as he carried the club on his shoulders. Crailsheim then went on a 13-6 run to lead 69-50 as Devin Goodman took over. He had shown these explosions in the Pro B with Rhondorf 2 seasons ago and did again in this run scoring 11 of the 13 points including 2 three´s. Goodman then turned over the scoring to Tyrese Blunt who closed out the third quarter with 8 points and 2 three´s. He especially liked the left corner. “Goodman is a great man creator and shot maker while Blunt just knocks down three´s. It hurt us mentally whenever they punched back. We just tried to stay positive. We just have to take the best out of this game we can. It was a real learning experience”, stated Allin Blunt. “We shot well as a team. They were hard hedging a lot so the corners were open. We did a good job with the extra pass”, added Devon Goodman.
Tyreese Blunt from outside
In the fourth quarter both teams executed well as the EPG Guardians continued not being able to match the Merlins physicality on the defensive end. Koblenz began with 3 stops, but only got rewarded with one bucket by Ben Stevens to trail 77-57. Ex Sienna (NCAA) forward Anthony Gaines got Crailsheim on the board at the 7,54 minute mark as they led 79-57. Koblenz had a good phase again getting a trey by Friederici and lay in by Adi-Eri and a floater by Stevens to trail 82-65. Crailsheim then put a lid on the game going on a brutal 12-4 run to lead 94-69. In the run, they continued to let it fly from outside as Keppler and Gardner nailed three´s while Goodman made a lay in. The game was long over with a few minutes to play as both teams traded baskets as ex St Bonaventure (NCAA) forward Ladarien Griffin made a lay in and Keppler a floater while Friederici made a lay in and David Boehm closed out the game with a deep three. “We controlled the game until the end. We did a good job containing Cockfield. We made him finish over the bigs. We wanted to close out the game strong”, commented Devon Goodman. “The game was physical and we were tired. We just wanted to keep pushing until the end, rebound and fight despite being tired”, expressed Allin Blunt. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim were led by Devon Goodman with 23 points while Tyreese Blunt added 21 points and Daniel Keppler 15 points while the EPG Guardians Koblenz were led by Leon Friederici with 19 points. The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim shot 54% from the field and 39% from outside and had 30 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 41% from the field and 43% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Erol Ersek (194-SF-1999) is a 25 year old 194cm guard from Austria playing his first season with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (BBL). He played the last 3 seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. He began his basketball career in Austria with the Vienna DC Timberwolves and also spent a year in USA at Pacific Grove High School, Pacific Grove, California. He played in the FC Bayern Munich organization from 2016-2021. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 69-67 win over top team rastiopharm Ulm.
Congrats Erol on the huge 69.67 win over ratiopharm Ulm. You and the MLP Academics are in first place. How crazy is that?
It is crazy. Especially seeing all the feedback on social media. But we also know that the season isn´t even half over yet. This is indeed a super feeling. We have to enjoy it.
Is Heidelberg a city that will go crazy after a win like that and having first place? The fans here are obviously very excited. Last season wasn´t a great one so the excitement is obvious. The fan support is super.
If someone had told you in September that shortly before Christmas the MLP Academics would be in first place what would you have thought? I would of never believed it. I had a lot of confidence in this team already in pre-season. I thought that we had a good group of guys, but having this kind of success is great.
I know that this is a tough question, but how cool would a ULM-Heidelberg final be in June 2025?
That would be cool. But we know that is very far away and a lot has to happen. Ulm always has a great atmosphere and it is a great derby, but way too early to talk about things like that.
Let´s talk about the game. With what kind of a mindset did you go into the game? Ulm was on a 5 game winning streak and you had lost against MBC allowing 100 points?
That is correct. The loss against MBC was tough. I think that we found ourselves again last week in practice. We went into the game knowing that we had to play aggressive, play together and believe in our system. We were definitely very excited to play against a great team in a cool arena. We were definitely very motivated.
At halftime ratio Ulm had the comfortable 48-33 lead. You had allowed 20 points in the first quarter, but 28 points in the second quarter. Defense is a big part of the Academics identity, but we all know has been inconsistent this season. What was key defensively that allowed Ulm to explode in the second quarter? We made too many defensive mistakes. We had problems getting over screens. Ulm did a good job stepping up their game a bit more and delivered a lot of pressure on us and forced us to turnovers. That helped them get out on transition.
How was the mood in the locker room? I can imagine Danny Jansson wasn´t pleased. What did he tell the team? He wasn´t happy, but was able to wake us up. He just told us to play our game and not let them dictate it. He also told us that we were only down 15 minutes which wasn´t the world. He was loud, but gave us energy.
He must have had the right words as Heidelberg allowed only 19 points in the second half. That is incredible. What adjustments did the team make on the defensive end? We were more aggressive and just smarter with the mismatches. We knew that they have very good individual class with great shooters and drivers like Karim Jallow. We were also more aggressive as a team. We got great support from Michael Weathers on the defensive end. His great play sparked us. He put great pressure on them and had 5 steals.
The MLP Academics went on a little run. Do you believe that the team aspect was able to get into the focus in the third quarter? Many guys stepped up. Yes the team aspect was huge. That is a great strength of ours. We have some great scorers with Mikesell and Horne, but many other solid scorers. We have much versatility on the scoring end
What did head coach Danny Jansson tell the team down 60-50 after 3 quarters to do going forward in the fourth quarter? He told us that we were only down 10 points, 5 less than at the break. He just told us to keep playing our game and keep the energy up.
Heidelberg went on a lethal 13-0 run a to lead 63-60 and Ulm didn´t get their first points until the 3,11 minute mark. Do you feel like they were challenged mentally with that run? The momentum changed in our favor. I feel like it affected them mentally.
In the last minute Barcello and Horne nailed clutch 3 pointers to seal the win. What was the biggest strength on this night? Our biggest strength in the game was us sticking together and pushing each other forward and having great energy. When somebody does something great, then 10 guys will tell you it´s nice. That pushes you forward.
What was your impression of Ulm´s 2 big talents Saraf and Essengue who most likely will get drafted by NBA teams. Are these guys that much better than guys like Yourself, Weideman or Vrcic back in the day when you were youth players?
They are both very young and have great quality. They didn´t have their best games, but you can´t await that from young players. The potential is huge for both.
How special is it always playing against your ex teammate Nelson Weidemann who won the 2017 NBBL title with you and FC Bayern Munich. How potential does he still have now? We were teammates for a long time and were roommates. It is always nice to see him. I´m happy for his situation in Ulm. He is playing a good season and has a cool role. I know what he can do. He is a hard worker and very disciplined.
You were top scorer of the team with 14 points. It was your best scoring game of the season. Was it extra special because of beating top team Ulm?
Yes it was. It feels even better with a win and then being able to celebrate. I had a good start with shots falling. I felt good and it was nice to see my shot falling early.
How happy were you with your game? You had 14 points in 22 minutes and were very efficient. I was happy with my game. I made my first 3 shots and after that Danny drew up some plays for me. My teammates looked for me. I got more room with Horne and Mikesell driving.
This was a big win. The next opponent is Bamberg. This is the Christmas game at home. Bamberg is playing well as of late having beat Alba Berlin and Bonn. What will be key to winning? We just have to play our game and be aggressive and stick together no matter who we play.
Who won a 1-1 in 2017 and who wins today you or Nelson Weidemann? We played often. I don´t remember who won more, but I will always take myself.
Michael Weathers (190-G-1997, college: SMU) is a 26 year old 190cm guard from Shawnee Mission, Kansas that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany with easyCredit BBL team MLP Academics Heidelberg. Last season he played with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 22.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.7%. He played his rookie season with KK Sutjeska Niksic (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 80.5. He began his basketball career at / Shawnee Mission Northwest High School. He proceeded to play at 4 NCAA schools with Miami University (NCAA) averaging 12.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 72.9%. He then played a season with Oklahoma State University (NCAA) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 62.7%. He then played at Texas Southern University (NCAA) averaging 16.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.4apg, 2.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 79.5% and in his last season played with Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 11.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 79.8%: He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before arriving in Heidelberg this season.
Thanks Michael for talking to germanhoops.com After playing in Montenegro and Austria,you’re your playing in a top league in Europe. How excited are you to be playing in Germany?
I’m very excited to be playing in Germany. I have heard nothing but spectacular things about the German BBL, I’m always excited to take on a new challenges in my life and taking this step was huge for me, again i’m just blessed to be able to play this game at a high level, I’ve never been more excited for a season
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?
During my season in Austria I started doing more digging on leagues around the world and my teammates were telling me the BBL is one of the toughest leagues you could play in so I watched Bayern and Alba and other teams around the league. The style of play is fast pace which I think favors my game a lot because I love to play in transition and downhill so with the athleticism of the BBL I think it matches me perfectly. From the fans standpoint I have seen how passionate the fans are about their teams and ‘m ready to witness this in person and see how crazy it can get.
Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents play in Germany? I have had a couple former teammates play in Germany, Jeffery Carrol, Eric Washington and a Kansas city native that played last year Elijah Childs
You decided to join the MLP Academics Heidelberg. What was so enticing about joining this ambitious organization?
Last year after watching the games in the BBL, I told my brother and former teammates over and over again that Germany BBL is the place that I have to play, I have to get in this league and get in front of these fans. With that MLP Academics Heidelberg was the first team to offer me and from speaking to the coach I loved his vision and the message he preaches. Playing for people that care about you is the number one thing that’s big for me and for someone to take a opportunity on you that means that they believe in your ability, From our first conversation I knew that coach Jansson was a man that believed in me and I couldn’t thank him enough for calling to me getting me on board
How did the talks go with head coach Danny Jansson. What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? I think the thing that most intrigued me was the relationships that he wants to build with his players. Playing basketball will always be there for people but those ever long lasting relationships you build with people is an unbelievable thing. From the basketball side of things I know that he preaches defense and that’s my biggest thing as well, but the offensive side of things is going to shock a lot of people this year.
Your were the third best scorer in Austria a league that many Americans use as a stepping stone to reach higher leagues. Do you feel like your scoring will adapt well to the more physical BBL league? Adaptation is my biggest thing being a basketball player, with the BBL being a physical league I always look forward to it. I think scoring will open my game up to another level in the BBL because of the physicality, drawing fouls is something I look to do, draw contact
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? If I had to compare my game to one NBA player I would either say Derrick Rose or Russel Westbrook. Because of their impact on winning they do the little things for their team to win games and that that is something that inspires.
Your scoring really stood out in Austria, but you have always filled the stat sheet well. How big is versatility a part of your game? I think being a versatile player in today’s game is a huge deal, I always pride myself on trying to win no matter what it takes and being a swiss army knife is something I try to do every game. Scoring is a big part of basketball but for me doing everything else like rebounding, blocking shots, taking charges, passing I think those are the stats that are more important in my opinion
You shot the ball really well in your first 2 pro seasons with 40% and 36%. What is your goal this season with your three pointer? Do you see yourself becoming an elite shooter over time? This season is definitely a season that I want to strive to become a better player and everyone has always raised the question of my shooting ability but this is the year that I make that question go away. This season I want to shoot 40% or better but overtime I want to become a guy that you can’t leave open or he’s going to make you pay.
You are an incredible defensive player that has averaged over 1 steal and block per game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I think right now where I’m at defensively, I’m a guy that helps the helper, i want to become a defensive player at one moment in my career just because I have always been breaded to play defense. My mom always preached defense and from the moment of her saying that I have always been a teammate that you know you can rely on to get that crucial stop or blocked shot. I want to become one of those defenders that gives you nightmares every time we match up. Like Tony Allen or Klay Thompson
On what other areas are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Right Now I have been working on reading pick and rolls at the next level, shot making, and getting my body in the best shape possible to last for however long the season goes.
Last season you played with the IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 22.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.7%. You played an exciting playoff series against UBSC Graz. What will you always remember from that series?
One moment that I’ll always remember is forcing a game 5 on the road and coming back home victorious. That bus ride was the best I’ve ever been on. But also the fans coming out and selling out the gym was something big for the organization
You played your rookie season with KK Sutjeska Niksic (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 15.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 80.5%; and in the Adriatic League 2 averaged 17.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.8spg, 1.3bpg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
I think my wake up call was my first day of practice getting right off the plane and jumping straight into practice and the time difference when I would call my family back home and it would be broad daylight outside and it’s nighttime where I’m at.
You played at 4 schools with Miami University, Oklahoma State, Texas Southern University and SMU. How vital was it for you to have had this vast experience of playing at 4 schools. What did your game get that it wouldn’t have had with only 1 school experience?
I think playing for so many schools and coaches helped me understand the adaptive ability that I use today. Learning a little bit from each coach helps my maturing so when freshmen or transfers would come in I would be able to help them out and get them to understand a coach’s message.
You had a solid freshman season at Miami University (NCAA) averaging 12.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 72.9%. How was it being teammate with your brother Marcos. What was your fondest moment with him there? Playing with your twin brother is an always an amazing feeling and memory in itself. My brother has helped me learn so much on and off the court and will always be my right hand man. But the fondest memory I would say me and my brother had was that we were down 16 on the road at Akron and we came back and won and my brother hit the go ahead game winner and I was the proudest brother in the world because not only did we win, I got to see my brother shine in that moment.
You then played at Oklahoma State University (NCAA) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 62.7%. There you were teammates with really talented guys like Lindy Waters, Cameron Mcgriff and Isaac Likekele. Which one of these guys had the biggest impact on you? I would say that Cam Mcgriff and Lindy Waters both had a huge impact on me because of the fact that they were older and helped me a lot when I transferred to Ok State. I thought I was going to be a guy that was alone but they accepted me with open arms.
You then played a season with Texas Southern University) averaging 16.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.4apg, 2.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 79.5%. You won the SWAC title. Is it fair to say that this was your best NCAA season? You had massive games that season. This was definitely the best season for me in my college career. Coming to Texas Southern was a moment I would never forget. Coach Johnny Jones from day 1 laid out the plan for me and we executed it all the way throughout the season.
You scored 24 points against Michigan and was the best player on the floor with guys like Franz Wagner present. How much did a game like this give you confidence that you could play with anyone? Playing against Franz Wagner in that Michigan team was a huge matchup and most people would back down because of the name across the chest. But playing against stars like that brings out the best in me. I have always had a motto to get respect, you have to earn it and that’s what I try to do every night on the floor and playing in a game like that boosts my confidence to the ceiling.
You finished your NCAA career at Southern Methodist University (NCAA) averaging 11.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 79.8%. How cool was it to be back on a team with brother Marcus? What was your fondest memory with him at SMU? Being back on the floor with my brother was like a breath of fresh air. It’s been so long since we’ve played with each other and to do it one last time for our college career was amazing. I think the most fondest memory was when we took down the Houston cougars when they were ranked 6th in the country. The students rushed the floor it was amazing
How did head coach Tim Jankovic groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Tim Jankovic Gave me a lot of confidence heading into my professional career. he helped me become a better player and better leader when it came to helping others.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kendric Davis? I’m going to say me just because I have a little more height and I jump higher
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA? The toughest player I would say would have to be Franz Wagner
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? My brother, Logan Mclane, Zuric Phelps, Cam Mcgriff, Lindy Waters
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
1.Lebron 2.Kobe 3.Jordan 4.tim Duncan 5.Shaq
Who is your GOAT?
Lebron James
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I Liked the movies I thought they were pretty entertaining, Now the last one was little over the top but I still think they did a good job
After more than 6 weeks on the road, the Frankfurt Skyliners finally were back in their own living room. They couldn´t take advantage of the road posting a dismal 1-4 record, but did reach the BBL cup top 4 with a big win in Goettingen. Despite that, they then lost a tough game in Wurzburg being totally overpowered in the last quarter. With a poor 2-7 record and near the BBL cellar, they were more than desperate for a win against the pesky 4-4 Braunschweig team who came to Frankfurt with a 2 game winning streak. An old friend was back for his third tour of duty with the Skyliners with Jordan Theodore who helped Frankfurt win the Fiba Europe Cup title in 2016. Frankfurt had a must win situation as another loss would continue their downward spiral in the standings. Despite another great scoring performance of the American duo of Calvin and Parsons who combined for 46 points, the Frankfurt Skyliners lost a heartbreaker 92-91 to the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. Frankfurt fought hard for 40 minutes, but at the end it was the little mistakes that cost them the win. “We began the game very well playing at a high level. We played with a lot of confidence and had a good flow. But in the second quarter our tempo slowed up. We have to be able to maintain a high intensity and energy for 40 minutes. We lost focus mentally. It began with me and that trickled down to the rest”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Jordan Theodore. Braunschweig did a good job punching back whenever Frankfurt punched first and just did a great job staying poised in crunch-time and took advantage of the little mistakes that Frankfurt made. “We had a tough start as Frankfurt executed very well and hit shots. We knew we had to get stops in the second half and did a better job playing defense. Our biggest strength tonight was our grit. We never gave up. It was a real challenge playing against Calvin and Parsons”, stressed Braunschweig guard TJ Crockett (187-G-1999, college: Lindenwood).
David Muenkat at the FT line
5000 fans showed up in the Suwag arena in Frankfurt on a Friday night and saw the Frankfurt Skyliners totally overpower Braunschweig in the first quarter netting 31 points. Both teams found their rhythm quickly as ex Kentucky (NCAA) forward Tre Mitchell got his stroke going early netting 5 points, while Jordan Theodore found his touch as well making a trey. Frankfurt also got the arena cooking early as Canadian David Muenkat went coast to coast with a thunderous 2 handed dunk that had many in the arena jumping up and down as Frankfurt led 9-5. Frankfurt continued to execute well as Theodore launched another trey and connected and Einaras Tubutis made a lay in for the 16-10 lead, but Braunschweig punched back with a deep trey by Luka Scuka and a trey by TJ Crockett who had a little Damian Lillard going with his step back jumper to dead lock the contest at 16-16. “I hope it looked a little like him. I really try to imitate his game”, smiled TJ Crockett. But then out of nowhere the Frankfurt Skyliners exploded on a 15-4 run to lead 31-20 after one quarter. Ex Wright State guard Trey Calvin scored 8 unanswered points showing his potent scoring abilities with 2 three´s and a step back jumper. Parsons added free throws in the attack while Brenneke made a lay in and Calvin ended the scoring display with another three pointer. Frankfurt lived off their 1-1 play and totally flaunted it while Braunschweig got lost in Frankfurt´s momentum. “Every team is good in the BBL. They played pretty well for their spot in the standings. They executed at a high level”, stressed Ty Crockett.
Luka Scuka from outside
The Frankfurt Skyliners kept control in the second quarter, but allowed Braunschweig to get dangerously close in the last minutes and led only by 5 points at the break. Both teams produced runs in the first minutes as the guests began well with a 7-1 run as 2019 JBBL MVP Benjamin Schroeder got a lay in, Lithuanian point guard Arnas Velickas hit a deep three pointe and ex G-League player Barra Njie made a lay in as Frankfurt led only 32-27. However Frankfurt punched back with a 7-3 run to lead 38-30. In the run Muenkat delivered a hook shot while Theodore made 2 finger tip lay in´s as his speed and execution on the drive looked spot on and like 9 years ago when he was in Frankfurt for his first tour of duty. Frankfurt came back being aggressive on offense getting easy buckets in the paint from Brenneke and Coplin to lead 43-34. Braunschweig had their down phases on defense lacking intensity at times and Frankfurt took advantage of their little mistakes. The game of runs continued as Braunschweig punched back with a 8-2 run to trail 45-43. Braunschweig got the free throw line and continued to attack the paint area and used their quickness and athleticism to tear apart Frankfurt as Crockett and ex Vechta American Chavaras Flanigan scored easily while Velicka added 4 points in the run. “Ar as we call Velicka really runs the point well. He made big plays and is a big part of your success”, added Ty Crockett. Frankfurt got a massive basket at the end from ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb who made the most of his opportunity with limited minutes as he drilled home a three pointer and the 48-43 advantage at the break. “We had to get stops. We made it as difficult as possible for them and got out on transition”, said TJ Crockett.
Jordan Theodore with the finger tip lay in
The Basketball Lowen Braunschwieg had their strongest scoring quarter in the third quarter netting 26 points and stealing the lead back and led by 4 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt came out slow and gave up 9 unanswered points as Braunschweig stole the lead back at 52-48. In the run the guests attacked the paint area getting free throws from Scuka and Njie while German Sanada Fru and Velicka scored easy lay ups. Frankfurt needed some instant energy and got it from 2024 Danish champion Malik Parsons who produced 6 points to tie the game at 54-54. Braunschweig kept chipping away and got free throws from Fru and another trey from Velicka to lead 59-54, but the one man show from Parsons continued as he made free throws and another lay in as Frankfurt trailed 59-56. Braunschweig continued to do a good job getting to the free throw line as Scuka and Flanigan scored to lead 65-58. If it wasn´t Parsons, then it was Calvinthzat showed responsibility and a real potent scoring attack as he steered home 5 straight points as Frankfurt trailed 65-63. Frankfurt continued to have massive difficulty with their 1-1 defense as Flanigan and ex Giessen guard Ferdinand Zylka scored for the 69-63. Frankfurt was lucky at the end that Velicka missed 2 free throws and served up an airball as they took advantage of that getting an off balance jumper from Minnesota native Booker Coplin in the corner to trail 69-65. “We rebounded better and got out on transition. We also got more touches inside and got to the free throw line and also made big plays”, stated TY Crockett. “We started slow and had no rhythm. That wasn´t Skyliner basketball. Parsons and Calvin were hot the whole game. I had to feed them the ball”, added Jordan Theodore.
Tre Mitchell at the FT line
In the fourth quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners just kept battling and never gave up. They received big shots from their American duo of Calvin and Parsons, but just couldn´t get totally over the hump. Frankfurt really did a good job all game long being aggressive and doing all they could to get to the rim. In the first few minutes of the fourth quarter they were rewarded with free throws from Parsons and Coplin and Parsons then nailed a trey to tie the game at 73-73. Mitchell gave braunschweig some energy with a pretty three pointer, but Frankfurt always had an answer as Parsons drilled home a three pointer to trail 78-77. Frankfurt continued to get no stops in the paint as Njie got free throws and even was aggressive on the offensive glass with a tip in and 84-79 Braunschweig lead. Frankfurt continued to have answers and executed well as Theodore made free throws and a lay in and Calvin nailed a deep three pointer to tie the game at 84-84 with 54 seconds remaining. Mitchell then countered with a pretty hook shot, but Parsons punched back with a lay in to tie the game at 86-86. ““We showed that we were mentally strong. We have had some tough loses this season. We showed resilience. We had a good attitude and just kept chipping away”, added Jordan Theodore. “We stayed together and just kept fighting. We never gave up”, warned Ty Crockett. With 15 seconds remaining, Ty Crockett made a clutch three pointer for the 89-86 lead. Calvin then made free throws to trail 89-88. Crockett them made one free throw and then got a crucial offensive rebound off his miss. That led to 2 more Velicka free throws and the 92-88 Braunschweig lead. “I was surprised I got back into the game. I had minutes restriction after coming back from injury. But coach drew up a play for me. I found my spot and made it”, stressed Ty Crockett. “The offensive rebound by Crockett was my fault. It bounced right back to him. That was crazy”, stressed Jordan Theodore. With 2,5 seconds to go and down 4 points, Trey Calvin made a crazy half court shot that banked in. Any other situation, it would have been the shot of the year and the arena would have been bedlam. Instead the arena was very quiet after it dropped in. “Maybe the league should make a 4 point shot. The arena would have gone crazy if it had been a 4 point shot”, smiled Jordan Theodore. The Basketball Lowen Braunschweig were led by Barra Njie, Arnas Velica and Luka Scuka with 15 points a piece while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Trey Calvin with 24 points and malik Parsons added 22 points. The Basketball Lowen Braun schweig shot 47% from the field and 33% from outside and had 25 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 55% from the field and 61% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 20 turnovers.
German Hoops 