Andre Marhold is a 23 year old 198cm forward that will be playing his second professional season and first in Germany for the Giessen 46ers. Last season he played for Chin Min Dragons UBC St. Polten (Austria-A Bundesliga): 7 games: 13.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 63.6%. He played at Duquesne (NCAA) and as a senior played 28 games: 6.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 52.9%, FT: 37.5%. He spoke to German Hoops before game one against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg

Andre thanks for talking to German Hoops The Giessen 46ers have reached the 2015 Pro A final and already automatically qualified to play in the BBL next season. What was your general feeling coming into the season of the club? Did you think that the team had something special and was capable of moving up?

I was excited about the season I knew I was going to be on a winning team and it just seemed like a great opportunity and a good first step for me. I knew we had a special team after we beat a really good Gotha team in our league after that game the team really started to play well and we all started to play for each other all the selfish play in the beginning of the season was gone

The Giessen 46ers swept Heidelberg and Nurnberg to reach the final and have a 8 game winning streak at the moment. Is this the best basketball that the team has played this season?

We had a run before where we was playing great basketball as well but now everyone knows what it will take to win. Individually everyone knows their role and what strengths they can bring to the team to help us win. When everyone does their job it makes us feel unstoppable every game we play to win and everyone believes it we play to win in practice and the games are always close and aggressive sometimes more aggressive than the game

After winning game one against Rent4Office 85-80, you clamped down on defense even more holding them to 64 points average in the last two games. What was most challenging in containing Nurnberg on the defensive end?

I would say defending ball screens was our biggest challenge because their bigs did a great job rolling and there guards were really good at scoring off the screen finding their big guy rolling or making the skip pass to the open shooters. But whenever we pressured the ball and pushed their screens farther out it was a lot easy for everyone to rotate and contain them which forced them to take bad shots that lead to long rebounds and fast breaks

Another big strength of the Giessen 46ers is their value of team basketball, sharing the ball and just unselfishness. Is this the most unselfish team that you have ever played on?

Yes this is the most unselfish team I have been a part of everyone gets along with each other on and off the basketball court

Giessen now play a two game series against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg for the Pro A title.

We know we have to play for each other and challenge ourselves individually in order to win every game and that’s the mindset we all have going into every game we all winners

How excited are you to battle Wurzburg again now in the post season where everything counts more than in the regular season?

I’m really excited about the battle that’s about to happen it’s going to be a war out there we need that championship

What kind of series can we await and what will be key to getting by Wurzburg? Is the Giessen defense at its season prime now ready to put Wurzburg in it´s place?

The best 2 teams in the league are ready to go at it and it will be a great show!

How vital will the play of Cameron Wells be for Giessen? He could be the x-factor in crunch time when the game is on the line?

We always want the ball in Cam’s especially at the end of the game, because he is a great play maker and he looks like an NBA PRO out there he’s and amazing guy on and off the court and I trust him on and off the court and he is the X factor he makes the team go we love him

Your teammate Aaron Hawley has displayed an amazing knack of making pretty exact animal sounds. What animal sound would you like to hear him present?

Hahaha I wily love to hear Aaron make the cow sound it’s hilarious every time.

Thanks Andre for the chat.

Giordan Watson is a 29 year old 178cm guard from Southfield Michigan. He is playing his second season for  CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He is an unselfish player who gets others involved but also has the ability to score if needed. He sparks the team with passing and ball movement and is a great defender. He played at Central Michigan from 2004-2008 and in his senior season he played 31 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3Pts: 38.6%, FT: 75.0%. As a rookie he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven playing 33 games averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-5(3.8apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giants Noerdlingen (Germany-ProA) playing 17 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4(5.2apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.7. In 2010-2011 he played for  UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Express League) playing 6 games: 22.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 7.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 68.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.8%. In 2011-2012, he played for U.M.F. Grindavik (Iceland-Express League) playing 31 games: 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-1(7.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT-2(43.4%), FT: 78.3%. In 2012-2013 he played for Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 53 games: 16.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 83.3%. Last season for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, he played 29 games: 11.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-3(5.5apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to German Hoops after powering his team to 83-80 third place finish over the Fraport Skyliners at the 2015 Eurochallenge Final 4 in Turkey.

Congrats Giordan on the amazing 83-80 win. After you hit the three pointer there was so much relief in your face. Where do you rate this shot in alltime big shots in your professional basketball career?

Well I couldn’t have too much relief because time was still on the clock. End of game situations are fun and never get old. It’s a great energy rush. This shot was special because of the platform it was on. Eurochallenge 3rd place game, you never know who is watching.

You had such a solid season in Germany with Bremerhaven in the 2008-2009 season and since then played in lower leagues like Iceland and Romania. How happy are you that you can make such a big shot against a top Beko BBL team?

It’s a good feeling. More than just the shot, to get the win for our club and team is special. We all work hard and deserve the recognition.

Was that last play designed for you? There was 14 seconds on the clock and you really took a tough shot after letting the clock go down to five seconds. Did you have winning shot in your head coming out of the time out?

The score was tied and we had the last possession. My goal was to get a shot and if I miss a chance for an offensive rebound. Coach gave me the ball and trusted me to get us a basket.

CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had a good start, but the Fraport Skyliners fought back and trailed only 36-34 at halftime. How proud were you in general of the team keeping pace with Frankfurt on the boards as their penetration game was very lethal?

Frankfurt has great guard play, and their bigs are solid as well. We knew it would be tough going into the game stopping their balance. I think our guys did well and our balance as a team showed strong as well.

The Fraport Skyliners got stronger in the third quarter going on a 10-0 run and having their first lead. However CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu always stayed with Frankfurt. How key was it going to zone in tehnsecond half to help your big men who were in foul trouble?

Zone really helped us to slow them down. All of our bigs were in foul trouble and we finished the game without all of them but 1. We are a man to man team, but zone is something we work on in certain situations.

How did CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu conserve energy best in the last quarter? It really seemed like the Fraport Skyliners might pull it out at the end?

Our offensive depth helped a lot. Not having one person carry the load allows us to focus on defense and have power at the end of games to win close ones.

As crunch time arrived the Fraport Skyliners seemed to have the momentum and led 75-70. How big was the faith at this stand point that CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu wouldn´t give up?

We have been in plenty of close games this year, so staying calm and believing is something we have proved to ourselves. Focus on getting defensive stops and finding the advantages on mismatches was our focus.

Coming into the third place game with Frankfurt CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had won 5 Eurochallenge games by five or less points owning crunch time. How confident were you that you would leave the floor again as the winner? Was the will to win a touch bigger than with Frankfurt?

We always believe we can win, even when we are done. It’s just about being more focused and never giving up or losing hope. We wanted the gold, but leaving Turkey without a medal would have been painful.

How challenging a sit playing against potential NBA player Justin Cobbs? It didn´t seem like the 13cm height difference was there?

Hmm, I didn’t notice the height difference, but it’s never something I focus on. I actually think it’s a disadvantage for the other guard if he is taller than me, it allows me to use my speed and quickness more. I really like Cobbs’ game. He plays strong, has a nice shot and handle. Always fun playing against talented players.

CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu finished in third place. What positives were you able to take from the 2014-2015 Eurochallenge? What was your highlight besides getting third place?

Playing Eurochallenge was great. Traveling, playing different countries and players. Seeing how you and your team compare, getting new exposure, all of it is great. I think winning at Enel Brindisi in Italy would be the highlight for our team. They generally protect home court and to go get a win there, a very important win that got us to the final 8 meant a lot for everyone on our team.

What special place will your medal receive?

The medal will represent perseverance and resilience. Just to keep working hard and not pay attention to what outsiders have to say. Yes, our team is in Romania, and I think we gained a lot of respect.

Thanks Giordan for the chat.

Braydon Hobbs is a 24 year old 196cm point guard that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany with rent4office Nuernberg (Germany-ProA). He started his basketball career in 2008 with : Bellarmine (NCAA2) playing a total of 133 games. He turned professional in 2012 and played for Caceres Basket (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 35 games: 7.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 87.9%. Last season he played for Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division, starting five): Eurocup: 10 games: 11.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 52.3%; Hungarian League: 32 games: 9.1ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-2(2.3spg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 72.7%. He also palyed two summers professionally in Australia. He spoke to German Hoops after being swept by the Giessen 46ers ending the season of Rent4Office Nurnberg

Braydon a tough 70-62 loss against Giessen who swept Rent4Office. Do you tip your hat to them? Giessen had a 5-0 record against Nurnberg. What made them so effective this season against you?

You definitely have to tip your hat to Giessen. They have been playing great during the playoffs and it showed in all three games. They beat us 5 times this year, and I would say their defensive intensity was the main reason for them being successful against us.

Nurnberg played a great first quarter keeping Giessen to 10 points. However Giessen had the edge a bit more the last three quarters winning each quarter slightly. Why was it so tough like in other games in this series to get over the hump when you had to?

I think it was so tough to get over the hump against Giessen because they always responded with big plays against us. Every time we made a couple good plays in a row, they answered with great plays as well. They never got rattled the whole series and always played solid team basketball.

When looking at the game team stats Nurnberg rebounded better and held Giessen to one three pointer. Did the six extra turnovers cost you the game at the end?

I’m not sure if the turnovers cost us the game. I just think it limited our possessions and opportunities. They had some crucial offensive rebounds that hurt us as well towards the end of the game.

Giessen now battles the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg in the final. It is a two game series where the points in the two points determine who wins the Pro A title. What kind of series can we expect and who will win?

I think it’s going to be two very good games. Both teams are extremely deep and both teams play great team basketball. It’s difficult to predict a winner. Giessen can win the championship by playing solid defense and Wurzburg can win from their offensive power. I’m excited to see how it unfolds.

A big goal of Rent4Office was reaching the Beko BBL. It didn´t do that, but reached the semi-finals. How do you summarize the team season? What were the highlights for you?

I think it was a great season for us here in Nuremberg. We definitely had one goal in mind this season, but came up a couple games short. I wouldn’t say we failed though. We battled through some ups and downs and tried the best we could to reach the BBL. I would say finishing second in the regular season was a great accomplishment for us. Winning 9 or 10 games straight, after the holiday break, was another highlight we had from the season.

You were second in scoring, first in assists and steals for Nurnberg. How would you summarize your season? How did the Pro A help develop your game?

Overall, I would say I had a decent season. Obviously the season would have been better if we had got to move up into the BBL. Playing this year in the ProA helped me develop in many ways. Nuremberg signed me to be a floor leader and try to run this team. I think I was successful in doing that. My coaches and teammates believed in me to do that, and they helped me to be a better leader on the court.

How did you benefit playing for head coach Ralph Junge? How did he help you get better this season?

I benefitted tremendously playing for Coach. He put a lot of trust in me to run the team at the point guard position. He helped me grow in many ways as far as running the team. I think I had a solid year because of the understanding Coach and I had for each other and for the team.

How do you see your future? Would you like to remain in Germany or move on and experience another country?

I would definitely like to stay in Germany. It is a great country to play basketball in. My wife enjoys it here too so that always helps.

If you had to pick an unsung hero this season for Rent4Office who would you chose? The guy that played great, but wasn´t always credited for his play the way he should of?

I would say the unsung hero from our team is Basti Schröder. He doesn’t always get the credit he deserves. He works extremely hard every day in practice and never complains. He’s a positive teammate that always puts the team first. He had huge games for us this year which helped us big time.

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

We battled some great players this year. We have some very talented guards in our league. We have skilled big men as well. I would say Cameron Wells from Giessen is one of the toughest players I played this year. Darren Fenn from Wurzburg was great against us this season as well.

What is something you are really looking forward to doing this summer, something you might not have been able to do the last years?

I’m looking forward to doing some fishing this summer. Last summer I was tied up working basketball camps and working out. I’m going to take some time to enjoy the water and catch a few fish.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Last movie I saw was American Sniper.

Thanks Braydon for the chat.

The Fraport Skyliners came to Trabzonspor on Wednesday to prepare for the Eurochallenge Final 4 and had such high goals of wanting to bring the club its third title in their history and Germany its fourth international club title and were welcomed with gloomy and dank weather which could of already been a bad omen for what was to come in the semi finals as they lost to Nanterre as their come back came up short and they were unable to finish in crunch time something they had been able to do all season long especially with Beko BBL rookie from Los Angeles Justin Cobbs barking the calls. Instead of having a constructive Saturday and Sunday where the club would have been preparing diligently for their final opponent, they were stuck in a place for another 48 hours where they really didn´t want to be anymore as usually after a loss after a BBL game the team can disappear into the bus and snore away their misery until they reach home and can sleep in their own bed. Instead the Fraport Skyliners still had to stay in the resort city Trabzon on the Black Sea and prepare for a meaningless game for third place against Romanian team CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu and play for pride. With so much time to kill, the club could of visited some of the sights in Trabzon like the Hagia Sophia church, the Boztepe park which is a small park and tea garden on the hills above Trabzon that has a panoramic view of nearly the entire city or get infested with some culture and visit the the Trabzon museum which is located in the town center and offers interesting exhibits on the history of the region, including an impressive collection of Byzantine artifacts. The time until Sunday afternoon must have felt like an eternity for the Fraport Skyliners, but 16:30 finally rolled along and it was game time again for Frankfurt. They had an interesting meeting with ex Beko BBL guard Giordan Watson who played for Bremerhaven in the 2008-2009 season where he had solid stats of 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-5(3.8apg), but never got a chance to prove himself in Germanyagain after as he played in lower leagues in Germany Pro A with Nordlingen and Iceland and Romania. However Watson got the last laugh powering his team to a third place finish over the Fraport Skyliners hitting the game winning shot with two seconds to play giving his team the 83-80 win. On the eve of the meaningless game, Watson had the BBL on his mind and had a big urge of wanting to win this game. “At this time in the season, my motivation for every game is high. Of course I want to have a great game being that I played in BBL before, but it’s not something I get emotional about. It’s in my head for sure, but again, Frankfurt is just another game that I must do my best”, warned Watson. Watson showed Europe that he could keep up with NBA talent like Justin Cobbs who finished with 16 points and four assists while Watson scored 18 points and dished out six assists. The Fraport Skyloiners had young German Stefan Ilzhoefer in the starting lineup while Justin Cobbs sat. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu got off to the quick 6-0 lead as the two big men 33 year old Andreas Glyniadakis who played many years with top team Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus and won a bronze with Greece at the 2009 European championships and 27 year old Nemanja Milosevic who played at Western Kentucky(NCAA) as a kid scored inside. The Romanian team kept dominating inside as Israeli Tal Karpels scored inside. Frankfurt had massive problems getting a rhythm going on offense, were sloppy on offense and Porter Troupe was matching the energy of Quantez Robetrson well and taking away his penetrazion on one on one defense. After almost four minutes played ex Ludwigsburg guard Stefan Ilzhoefer got Frankfurt on the board with a big three pointer to cut the CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead to 6-3. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu kept on the offensive pressure taking the 12-3 lead as Milosevic continued to show his presence inside getting free throws and a lay in. Frankfurt then found some flow on offense going on a 7-1 run to cut the CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead to 13-10. Frankfurt got good production inside as St Petersburg native Mike Morrison hit a fast running hook shot, ex Vanderbilt guard Kevin Bright snuck in from the base line and made a two handed dunk and Heidelberg native Danilo Barthel made free throws. Frankfurt couldn´t hold their new found momentum as CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu closed out the first quarter with a 7-4 run to lead 20-14. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu got production from Louis Darby who played at Long Beach State(NCAA) and is in his sixth season for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu hitting free throws, ex Bremerhaven point guard Giordan Watson nailed a big three over Johannes Voigtmann showing a 32cm difference doesn´t always have to be a disadvantage. Milosevic ended the first quarter with a tip in on his second try. Frankfurt got a lay in form German national player Voigtmann and additional free throws from Barthel. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu was shooting 55% from the field and 50% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 33% from outside. Frankfurt had the 6-5 rebound edge, but six turnovers while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had four turnovers. In the second quarter CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu would extend their lead to 10 points, but the Fraport Skyliners continued to show their strength of fighting back cutting down the lead and trailing only by two points at the break. The Fraport Skyliners got on the board first as ex California(NCAA) guard Justin Cobbs showed his passing qualities going back door and connecting with Ohio native and ex Auburn(NCAA) forward Quantez Robertson. However CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had their offensive firepower on tap as they got consecutive trey´s from ex s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg forward Lamont Mack and from ex Eastern Michigan(NCAA) point guard Giordan Watson to extend their lead to 26-16. Frankfurt always tried to use aggressive defense to get their transition going which sparked a 5-0 run as Cobbs hit a jumper, Barthel made a lay in after a feed from Robertson and he made a free throw cutting the CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead to 26-21. Frankfurt continued to be in come back mode as they went on a 8-3 run to cut the CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead to 29-27. Frankfurt got key buckets from Voigtmann who used his size and strength over and over inside for the easy bucket, Robertson showed that his athleticism is difficult to match scoring inside easily and Voigtmann made a tip in off a Cobbs miss. American Porter Troupe who played three seasons in the IBL for the Vancouver Volcanos before getting his shot in Europe hit a cool three pointer extending the CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead to 32-27. In the last few minutes CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu got key buckets inside from Andreas Glyniadakis and Karpels while Frankfurt continued to get easy buckets inside as Voigtman made a dunk after getting set up nicely from Cobbs and then made a tip in off an own miss as Frankfurt trailed 36-34. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu was shooting 47% from the field and 50% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 54% from the field and 25% from the three point line. Frankfurt led the rebound duel 14-13, but had 10 turnovers while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had eight turnovers. In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued to heighten their game and took their first lead of the game and led after 30 minutes 56-55. Troupe who has found a niche with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu the last five years started off the third quarter with a big three pointer and Karpels snuck inside for the lay in finishing off the 5-0 run extending the lead of CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu to 41-34. However as is so often the case basketball is a game of runs and the Fraport Skyliners demonstrated just how lethal their offense can be when they get hot going on a 10-0 run to get their first lead of the game 44-41. In the run, Frankfurt was bolstered by Voigtman jumper who can hit that 20 footer as easily and as often as Steph Curry can the three, Canadian national player and ex Braunschweig forward Aaron Doornekamp finished off the fast break with a lay in, Voigtmann showed off his three point shooting touch something he shares with FC Bayern Munich center John Bryant and Cobbs nailed a bomb form downtown for the lead. Frankfurt finally had a steady rhythm on offense and always pushing the ball while on defense forcing CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu to very tough shots and keeping them out of their comfort zone on offense. Frankfurt held the lead as Voigtmann used mis matches wherever he could and made like a point guard penetrating and scoring easily while Brooklyn, New York native Sean Armand dropped a nasty three pointer as Frankfurt led 50-46. The game remained tight at the end and CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu responded with a mini 4-0 run as Darby scored inside and Watson somehow finished off a floater in traffic knotting the game at 50-50. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu then took the lead with a Glyniadakis lay in and free throw for the 53-50 lead which in turn was matched by another bomb from downtown form Armand. Barthel closed out the third quarter with a buzzer beater three pointer as Frankfurt had the 56-55 advantage. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 58% from the field and 50% from the parking lot while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu was shooting 45% from the field and 41% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 21-20 rebound edge, but 16 turnovers while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had 10 turnovers. In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners led by five points late, but had some costly turnovers giving the game and third place away. Morrison started off the fourth quarter with a slam dunk that didn´t want to go through the hole like it should but opted to roll in instead. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu then showed how you dunk properly executing on a perfect ally-op dunk as Watson found Darby as CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu still trailed 58-57. Armand then scored inside as Frankfurt led 61-57. Frankfurt then had some misfortune as Morrison made a big block on Glyniadakis, but the ball squirmed free and Troupe got it connecting on a three as CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu trailed 61-60. After a Cobbs jumper, it was Troupe again testing his three point shooting connecting to tie the game at 63-63. The game remained exciting as a team would take the lead only to be tied again. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu played a zone to help protect their big men in foul trouble. Robertson then scored inside which was matched by a Darby step back shot. After Morrison free throws, it was Troupe again scoring inside and giving CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu the lead 68-67 with a free throw. Frankfurt then seemed in range to win the game as they took control of the game going into crunch time with a 8-2 run to lead 75-70. Frankfurt knew that the inside of CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu was in foul trouble and they attacked inside with a passion as Cobbs scored form the baseline and the German twin towers Voigtmann and Barthel made easy put backs. Instead of now slamming the door in the face of CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, they allowed the 2014 Romanian cup winner to hang around and escape on a 6-2 run to cut the Frankfurt advantage to 77-76. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu did exactly what Frankfurt did taking a page out of their game going inside as Darby and Karpels scored and Watson connected on free throws. With 43 seconds to play Watson nailed huge free throws to tie the game at 78-78. After an Armand turnover, Karpels made one free throw for the 79-78 CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lead. Then Armand made his second consecutive turnover on a five second violation which led to a Troupe free throw and CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu 80-78 lead. Cobbs then tied the game at 8-80 with 14 seconds to play. Watson then stepped up took responsibility nailing the giant three pointer game winner over Robertson with two seconds to play. Sean Armand had one last chance to send the game into overtime, but came up short with a three. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu was led by their American trio who scored 50 of the 83 points as Giordan Watson had 18 points and Louis Darby and Porter Troupe had 16 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Johannes Voigtmann with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Justin Cobbs chipped in with 16 points and Danilo Barthel contributed 13 points. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu shot 49% from the field and 47% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners shot 61% from the field and 46% from outside. Frankfurt edged out CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu under the boards 26-25, but coughed up the ball 20 times while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu did 11 times.

Porter Troupe is a 32 year old 196cm guard from San Diego, California that is playing his fifth season with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He started his basketball career with Portland (NCAA) in 2001 and finished at Warner Pacific College (NCCAA) in 2005. It took him three years until he came to Europe in 2008 and in the meantime he played for the Vancouver Volcanoes (IBL). In Europe he also played for Al Moutahed Tripoli (Lebanon-Div.A) and Cytavision Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division A). He spoke to German Hoops after the 83-80 win against the Fraport Skyliners winning third place at the 2015 Eurochallenge final 4 in Turkey.

Congrats Porter on the amazing 83-80 win against the Fraport Skyliners to win the bronze at the 2015 Eurochallenge. How do you feel and where does this achievement rack up in your professional career?

Hey Miles, good talking with you again. It feels good to come to the final four and come away with a medal. Didn’t want to leave here empty handed.

CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had a good start, but the Fraport Skyliners fought back and trailed only 36-34 at halftime. How proud were you in general of the team keeping pace with Frankfurt on the boards as their penetration game was very lethal?

We knew after our dismal performance on the boards against Trabzon that we needed to be much better. I think guys took it personal and that’s why we had some success.

The Fraport Skyliners got stronger in the third quarter going on a 10-0 run and having their first lead. However CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu always stayed with Frankfurt. How key was it going to zone in the second half to help your big men who were in foul trouble?

The game was officiated very tight. Which ended up hurting us because we had guys in foul trouble all game. The zone slowed some of Frankfurt’s momentum. It was a big key to the game.

How did CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu conserve energy best in the last quarter? It really seemed like the Fraport Skyliners might pull it out at the end?

Really it was just a matter of will. We wanted to come away with a top 3 finish over Frankfurt. We felt we deserved at least that.

As crunch time arrived the Fraport Skyliners seemed to have the momentum and led 75-70. How big was the faith at this stand point that CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu wouldn´t give up?

We just kept fighting. That has been our story all season. We have dealt with injuries and changes to the roster all season. This has brought us closer together and instilled belief in our own abilities.

When you saw the shot of Giordan Watson leave his hands, did you know it would go in?

I knew it was good as soon as it left his hands. Justin Cobbs asked me if it was going and I said definitely.

It seemed like Giordan Watson wanted to decide this game himself. Was this last play designed for him or what was the play exactly?

Yes we felt that Giordan going 1 on 1 was our best option. He is great at getting in the lane and scoring or creating for others.

Watson had a very solid season in Germany 7 years ago, but never got a chance again. He won the point guard battle against potential NBA player Justin Cobbs. How much of a chance does a guy like Watson have for playing at a higher level?

Giordan to me was the best point guard in the competition. He proved it over and over, and leading a small club like ours to the final four is just a testament to that. He is for the highest level if you ask me.

Coming into the third place game with Frankfurt CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu had won 5 Eurochallenge games by five or less points owning crunch time. How confident were you that you would leave the floor again as the winner? Was the will to win a touch bigger than with Frankfurt?

We believe that we have what it takes to pull through in close games. Today was no different.   But I can’t speak on their feelings or need to win. I just know we ended up on top.

How challenging was it playing against top defensive player Quantez Robertson? You did a very good job on him through out the game?

Quantez was a good competitor. I respect his game and heart. I had a good game, because we shared the ball and I got good looks at the basket.

CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu finished in third place. What positives were you able to take from the 2014-2015 Eurochallenge? What was your highlight besides getting third place?

It was a great experience for me and my teammates. The exposure proved the quality of the Romanian league and some of my teammates. I also feel that I proved that I can compete against top players in top league and do more than hold my own. I felt I won a lot of my matchups.

What special place will your medal receive?

I gave my mom the medal, thanks again Miles!

Thanks Porter for the chat.

Giordan Watson is a 29 year old 178cm guard from Southfield Michigan. He is playing his second season for  CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He is an unselfish player who gets others involved but also has the ability to score if needed. He sparks the team with passing and ball movement and is a great defender. He played at Central Michigan from 2004-2008 and in his senior season he played 31 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3Pts: 38.6%, FT: 75.0%. As a rookie he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven playing 33 games averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-5(3.8apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giants Noerdlingen (Germany-ProA) playing 17 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4(5.2apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.7. In 2010-2011 he played for  UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Express League) playing 6 games: 22.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 7.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 68.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.8%. In 2011-2012, he played for U.M.F. Grindavik (Iceland-Express League) playing 31 games: 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-1(7.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT-2(43.4%), FT: 78.3%. In 2012-2013 he played for Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 53 games: 16.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 83.3%. Last season for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, he played 29 games: 11.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-3(5.5apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to German Hoops before the 2015 Eurochallenge game for third place against the Fraport Skyliners.

Giordan a tough loss to Trabzonspor in the 2015 Eurochallenge semi-final 83-63. You wanted to achieve so much in this tournament. Despite the 20 point loss what positives yould you take out of the game?

The game was a learning experience, but this is a bad time for that. Hopefully we can take that loss into our domestic league playoffs and remain focused for the entire game

Energia was lead 22-17 after one quarter, but then were outscored 22-9 in the second quarter. What was key for Tranzonspor to go into halftime with the nine point advantage?

They remained strong while we had some mental lapses. At this time in the season, mental breakdowns will cost you

What did head coach Antonis Constantinides tell the team do better in the third quarter. What adjustments did the team make and did it succeed?

Our biggest focus was just to make sure we stayed concentrated. We got away from what gave us the lead early, and lost assignments defensively. We fought back, but in the end it wasn’t enough

Dwight Hardy led all scorers, but in the fourth quarter it seemed like Sean Marshall and Andrija Stipanovic sparked the team. Was Trabzonspor just deeper off the bench with more energy?

Their depth was definitely their strength in the semi final game. The more guys you can play at a high level, it usually works in your teams favor.

The rebound line of 42-19 in favor of the Turkish squad was one of big keys in the game. Did the banging down low have a big effect in conserving energy in the second half?

Losing on the glass like that will also guarantee a loss. Controlling the paint is something both teams wanted to do, it’s a must in games like this.

You played against many top guards in the Eurochallenge, but where did Dwight hardy rank up with the best guy that you played against in this competition?

Hardy played exceptional. He got a ton of great looks and knocked them down. He got hot and it was tough after that.

I was hoping for a Frankfurt-Rovinari in the final, but instead you will meet in the game for third place. How difficult will it be getting ready for this game after the disappointing loss?

Playing in this game will be tough because I’m sure both teams wanted first place so bad. So now, you have to refocus quickly on being the best you can be instead of the best. We have mature guys, and so does Frankfurt, so I expect both teams to come out ready.

The Fraport Skyliners had a tough loss against Nanterre losing in crunch time. What kind of game can we await and what will be key to winning the game?

I know the back court of Frankfurt is strong, so I expect a lot of hard work going in. I think the team that wants it more will win.

With what kind of feelings are you going into this game? You last played in the Beko BBL in the 2008-2009 season and I thought you had a very respectable season with Bremerhaven, but you never played in Germany again. How motivated are you to show the BBL that you have become a top point guard in Europe?

At this time in the season, my motivation for every game is high. Of course I want to have a great game being that I played in BBL before, but it’s not something I get emotional about. It’s in my head for sure, but again, Frankfurt is just another game that I must do my best.

Trabzonspor face off against Nanterre in the final. What kind of game can we expect and who do you think will win?

It should be an interesting game because the teams have different styles. The French teams and generally more athletic and a bit undersized upfront, while Trabzonapor has big, physical guys up front. The home court of Trabzon or the athleticism of Nanterre, should be interesting.

Steph Curry recently nailed 77 three pointers in a practice in a row. What was the most you ever made in a row?

Haha, I don’t know the most I’ve made, maybe around 33.. But that’s a long way away from 77!

Thanks Giordan for the chat.

Porter Troupe is a 32 year old 196cm guard from San Diego, California that is playing his fifth season with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He started his basketball career with Portland (NCAA) in 2001 and finished at Warner Pacific College (NCCAA) in 2005. It took him three years until he came to Europe in 2008 and in the meantime he played for the Vancouver Volcanoes (IBL). In Europe he also played for Al Moutahed Tripoli (Lebanon-Div.A) and Cytavision Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division A). He spoke to German Hoops before the game for third place in the Eurochallenge against the Fraport Skyliners.

Porter a tough loss to Trabzonspor in the 2015 Eurochallenge semi-final 83-63. You wanted to achieve so much in this tournament. Despite the 20 point loss what positives could you take out of the game?

Hi Miles, thanks for the opportunity! Definitely a tough loss, in the semi-final. To be honest with you, it’s tough for me to find the positives so quickly after losing a game like that. I wanted the victory so much, maybe too much. But what I will say is that I’m aware of what my team has achieved in the competition by just reaching this point. To make it here was a dream in the beginning and we had the opportunity to go to the final, so looking back on the whole season I can say it was a success.

Energia was lead 22-17 after one quarter, but then were outscored 22-9 in the second quarter. What was key for Tranzonspor to go into halftime with the nine point advantage?

In the first quarter we played as a unit, and I feel that we lost a sense of unity in the second quarter. I can’t explain why, but that’s what I feel. We definitely didn’t pay attention to the small details, and in a game of this magnitude details make all the difference.

What did head coach Antonis Constantinides tell the team do better in the third quarter. What adjustments did the team make and did it succeed?

I think we just focused a little more on the details, and we believed we had a chance. The goal was to keep the game close, and take it at the end. So we were where we wanted to be at the end of the third. What was working was making them shift sides of the floor defensively, and in the third we made them do just that. Also defensively we paid more attention to the details, and made them take tough shots. Doing that helped us get back into the game.

Dwight Hardy led all scorers, but in the fourth quarter it seemed like Sean Marshall and Andrija Stipanovic sparked the team. Was Trabzonspor just deeper off the bench with more energy?

I feel they were deeper than us for sure. I think the last 5 min of the game showed that, and also I think we just couldn’t get over the hump. I think the frustration of not getting over the hump took over and we just gave in. Also playing on their home floor inspired them, you can tell they rode the momentum of their home crowd.

The rebound line of 42-19 in favor of the Turkish squad was one of big keys in the game. Did the banging down low have a big effect in conserving energy in the second half?

Losing the rebound battle was the biggest key for them winning the game. They kept throwing big bodies at us, and it wore us down.

You played against many top guards in the Eurochallenge, but where did ex Boston College star Sean Marshall rank up with the best guy that you played against in this competition?

I respect everyone I have matched up with in this competition. Individually I was more impressed with Terry Smith from Lukoil. He was a tough matchup because he could score at will 1 on 1. Yesterday’s game, Tranzonspor played a great TEAM game. Dwight Hardy and Sean Marshall were the beneficiaries of that. Great ball movement and great reading of the game from all their players helped create easy opportunities for them.

I was hoping for a Frankfurt-Rovinari in the final, but instead you will meet in the game for third place. How difficult will it be getting ready for this game after the disappointing loss?

It will be hard, no one wants to play for 3rd. You come to the final four dreaming big. So it will be tough, but I’m a competitor and if you told me at the beginning of the Eurochallenge season that my team would finish 3rd I would take it.

The Fraport Skyliners had a tough loss against Nanterre losing in crunch time. What kind of game can we await and what will be key to winning the game?

Hats off to Nanterre for making it to the finals it’s a great achievement for the French club. I think that Frankfurt have a good team and could have very easily be in the final. Good guards, good inside game. Keys for us will be defense and playing as a unit. When we focus on these two things we can beat any team in the competition. Also, we have to do a much better job finishing defensive possessions with rebounds so we can get into our transition game.

After a seven point game and four fouls, you surely will be very motivated to play Frankfurt. Besides getting the win, what will you be focusing most on in your game to help your team win?

For me, I excel when we move the ball and create opportunities for each other. So for me to have a better game offensively, we as a unit have to play much better. But certainly from my side I will hunt my shot more aggressively. I think I waited for the game to come to me too much in the semi-final and it got me out of rhythm. Defensively I just need to be myself and stick to the principles and everything will be okay.

You have a very interesting story as a player. After playing at Warner Pacific, it took you 3 years to get to Europe. In the meantime you played semi pro basketball with the Vancouver Volcanoes (IBL). Did you ever doubt that you could make it as a professional in those times? How were you able to survive these hard times?

My story is interesting because there are a lot of things that happened in between going to Europe. I was actually offered a contract to Italy Lega due after excelling at Hart Sports Management camp in 2007. Things fell through and it was disappointing. I have always believed in myself, and just stayed true to my dream. Belief in God, staying close to the game, and working hard kept my dream alive.

You have played almost your whole career with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu. What makes this organization so special that you have decided to return almost every season?

Well first, until now the Romanian league wasn’t respected as I believe it will be going forward. There have been many good import players playing in this league, but it has been looked down upon by western European countries. I am a very loyal person, so staying here was never a problem for me. They have always treated me right, and I have a strong bond with the community and fans.

Is CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu a team where you could imagine finishing your professional career with?

Playing in this Eurochallenge has given me the exposure I have always wanted. I also played in Cyprus for Apoel Nicosia, and had a very successful season there. Played against some very good players and learned that I can play anywhere if given the opportunity. So in saying that, I always want to play at the highest level I can. I love the fans and people of Targu Jiu, but new challenges are always enticing

Trabzonspor face off against Nanterre in the final. What kind of game can we expect and who do you think will win?

Finals are always very physical with high intensity. I think Tranzonspor have a lot of quality, and size. Nanterre play a high paced game, and are great offensively. I think in the end the team that controls the pace of the game, and the boards will win. Should be an interesting game

You and Louis Darby have played four seasons together with CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu. You must know each other inside out. Who wins a one on one in practice?

Haha, Louis is a great 1 on 1 player. Honestly we have never just rolled the ball out and played 1 on 1. I would never pick someone to beat me in a 1 on 1 game, but beating Louis would be a great challenge. It would definitely be fun!

Steph Curry recently nailed 77 three pointers in a practice in a row. What was the most you ever made in a row?

Steph Curry is an amazing shooter, probably the best in the world. Honestly last year in practice I made 34 in a row during a shooting game with teammates. I have made over 40 in a row during a workout with my trainer in Portland. But an exact number escapes me.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

DVD hmm…. I recently watched the Judge with Robert Downey Jr.   Good movie, I also saw Fast 7 in theaters. Thanks Miles, for the opportunity.

Thanks for the chat Porter.

Sometimes everything can look so bleak for a basketball team as the Fraport Skyliners witnessed almost six months ago as they came into the Eurochallenge season sporting a miserable 1-6 record in the Beko BBL and it didn´t get any better as they started off the international club tournament with a lack luster 94-59 loss in Belgium against Aalstar, then beat a weak Danish team Bakken Bears and then had some real misfortune losing against Boras as Adama Darboe nailed a buzzer beater in the second home in Russelheim as their real living room Fraport arena was booked for another event. However then Justin Cobbs arrived and the rest is history. Frankfurt then reeled off five straight wins and reached the quarterfinals with a double overtime win against Russian team Avtodor. In the quarterfinals, Frankfurt survived getting by Russian team Enisey in a do or die game as the club made one of their greatest comebacks in history coming down 19 points and winning 85-80. There were many highlights besides that amazing victory like the break out game of German Johannes Richter who led Frankfurt past Bakken as he allowed no honey for the Bears or the exciting 94-92 win in Den Bosch as Justin Cobbs and Brandyn Curry had a point guard battle of the finest. All in all Frankfurt had a superb 11-4 record in the Eurochallenge and were rewarded with a ticket to the final 4 in Turkey. With all the great memories of the past six months put into an extra memory bank in their heads, the Fraport Skyliners now had 80 minutes to play their best basketball ever starting with the first 40 minutes against 2013 French champion Nanterre and tried to make another comeback translate into a win like the way they did against Enisey and FC Bayern Munich this season, but came up a bit short at the end losing 83-79 as they had little resistance for the French team sharp shooters and ex Beko BBL American players Kyle Weems and Jamal Shuler who combined for a masterful 43 points. The Fraport Skyliners went into the game with a massive height advantage, but knew that they had to contend with the dangerous three point shooting of Nanterre and quickly were put into a hole as Arkansas native Mykal Riley and ex teammate of ex Fraport Skyliner Jermario Davidson at Alabama(NCAA) nailed two three pointers for the quick 6-0 lead. Nanterre kept nailing three pointers as rapidly as Quantez Robertson can get down the floor on the fast break as the ex Beko BBL players Weems and Jamal Shuler hit two three pointers for the 14-4 lead. Frankfurt had massive problems getting into a rhythm on offense as it seemed like the bad weather there left a bad side effect on their game plan or simply they got off the wrong side of the bed. Nanterre was halting the Frankfurt pick and roll and Justin Cobbs got off to a slow start shooting. Even when Frankfurt got some needed production from Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi in the form of a trey or Johannes Voigtmann two handed dunk fed from Cobbs, Nanterre kept firing away and connecting from all angles as Weems hit a catch and pop and ex TBB Trier forward Shuler another three pointer for the 19-9 advantage that he just threw in at a speed where FC Bayern Munich guard Anton Gavel would have chuckle at. Frankfurt got some needed production down the stretch from Brooklyn native Sean Armand with a jumper to cut the Nanterre lead to 23-13. After a Jaiteh tip in, Frankfurt closed out the first quarter strong as ex Iona guard Sean Armand hit a three and Florida native Mike Morrison made a tip in as Nanterre led 27-18 after one quarter. After one quarter Nanterre was shooting a crazy 69% from the field and 66% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 46% from the field and 40% from outside. Both teams had six rebounds a piece and Frankfurt five turnovers and Nanterre three turnovers. In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued to pick and claw at the Nanterre lead and tie the game at 34-34 only to allow a 11-0 Nanterre run to go into halftime with the comfortable 45-37 lead. The Fraport Skyliners started off the second quarter with a bang going on a 5-0 run to cut the Nanterre lead to 27-23 as Morrison scored inside and Armand dropped a three pointer. However whenever Frankfurt threatened to get closer, Nanterre had a response as Phoenix native point guard TJ Campbell who played at Portland(NCAA) made a tip in and three pointer to extend the Nanterre lead to 32-23. This didn´t faze Frankfurt at all as there was more flow and confidence in their offense as they went on a lightening 11-2 run to even the game at 34-34. Frankfurt was making better use of the obvious height advantage and banging the ball inside as Morrison got two easy buckets and also improved their three point accuracy with Armand and Burtschi three pointers. However Nanterre had this incredible way of stepping up then when it seemed like they may be wilting throwing a nasty 11-2 run into the face of Frankfurt and taking the 45-36 lead at halftime. In the run they were supported by another clutch three pointer from Campbell as well as a jumper from 36 year old French veteran Joseph Gomis who played at the 2006 World championships in Japan and 2007 European championships in Spain getting a jumper. They also got timely free throws from Laurence Ekperigin and Shuler as well as a runner rom the ex TBB Trier player. Voigtmann closed out the second quarter canning free throws. After 20 minutes Nanterre was shooting 58% from the field and 60% form the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 44% from the field and 30% from the three point line. Nanterre had the 17-14 rebound edge and both teams had eight turnovers a piece. In the third quarter the fight within the Fraport Skyliners remained fierce, but Nanterre continued to execute well, but lost a little focus at the end letting the German 2004 league champion go out on a 11-3 run to cut the Nanterre lead to 64-61. Ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi started off the third quarter with a big three pointer, but Kansas native and ex Missouri State(NCAA) star Kyle Weems returned the answer with a brutal runner and three pointer extending the Nanterre lead to 50-40 as he still dreams of the NBA after having played NBA Summer League in 2012 and 2013. Frankfurt got some production from Voigtmann with a lay in and Armand tap in sneaking to get his own rebound, but Nanterre still had that controlled offense where hitting shots on a consistent rate was on the menu as Shuler and Campbell dropped three pointers and Weems made a hard dunk with authority coming in from the wing and taking the feed from Campbell as Nanterre led 58-48. Nanterre continued to be the more clever team on offense, but Frankfurt the better oiled come back team as they never gave up and closed out the third quarter strong going on a 13-6 run to cut the Nanterre lead to 64-61 after 30 minutes. In the run, Nanterre kept some distance with huge three pointers from Campbell and Judith, but Frankfurt capitalized on their chances on offense getting two big trey´s from Canadian national player Aaron Doornekamp and from Quantez Robertson. Nanterre was shooting 55% from the field and 61% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 44% from the field and 41% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 24-20 rebound edge, but 11 turnovers while Nanterre had only nine turnovers. The fourth quarter was an intense battle as Frankfurt got it´s first lead of the contest and in all there were six lead changes, but at the end Nanterre showed that they were the better team keeping the nerves and hitting big shots. Cobbs started the fourth quarter with a big three pointer over 208cm big man Jaiteh to tie the score at 64-64. Frankfurt was defending a lot better being aggressive and giving Nanterre less easy looks, but couldn´t capitalize on offense with scoring as they also had a lull. Weems then hit an open three pointer as he waited until Danilo Barthel flew by him to give Nanterre the 67-64 lead. Frankfurt then went on a 5-0 run to earn themselves their first lead as Cobbs made a jumper and Burtschi connected on a three pointer as Frankfurt led 69-67. It then went back and forth for a while as both teams swapped lead changes as Weems nailed another three pointer for the Nanterre 70-69 lead. Voigtmann responded with a tip in as Frankfurt led 71-70. Jaiteh then made a lay in and free throw for the 73-71 Nanterre advantage. A Voigtmann free throw and Cobbs free throw gave Frankfurt the lead back at 74-73. Frankfurt had no resistance or answer how to slow down Weems as he continued hitting shots at an incredible rate as if he had been watching that Steph Curry 77 three pointers in a row video or his shot from last night that brought Golden State into OT with New Orleans to give the French side the 76-74 lead. Morrison hit clutch three pointers to even the score at 76-76. Then came the turning point of the game as Weems nailed his sixth and last crushing three of the night over Burtschi for the 79-76 lead. Cobbs then coughed up the ball which led to a Jaiteh dunk giving Nanterre the 81-76 lead and sealing the win. Judith and Armand closed out the game with a dunk and three pointer. Nanterre was led by Kyle Weems with 25 points. Jamal Shuler chipped in with 18 points and TJ Campbell contributed 15 points. The FRaport Skyliners were led by Sean Armand with 17 points. Johannes Voigtmann added 16 points, Mike Morrison 14 points and eight rebounds and Jacob Burtschi 12 points. Nanterre finished the game shooting 54% from the field and 63% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners shot 42% from the field and 40% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound battle 36-27, but had 14 turnovers while Nanterre had 12 turnovers. Nanterre awaits the winner between Energia of Romania and TS Medical Park of Turkey.

Giordan Watson is a 29 year old 178cm guard from Southfield Michigan. He is playing hiss econd season for  CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Liga Nationala). He is an unselfish player who gets others involved but also has the ability to score if needed. He sparks the team with passing and ball movement and is a great defender. He played at Central Michigan from 2004-2008 and in his senior season he played 31 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3Pts: 38.6%, FT: 75.0%. As a rookie he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven playing 33 games averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-5(3.8apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giants Noerdlingen (Germany-ProA) playing 17 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4(5.2apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.7. In 2010-2011 he played for  UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Express League) playing 6 games: 22.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 7.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 68.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.8%. In 2011-2012, he played for U.M.F. Grindavik (Iceland-Express League) playing 31 games: 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-1(7.2apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT-2(43.4%), FT: 78.3%. In 2012-2013 he played for Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 53 games: 16.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 83.3%. Last season for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, he played 29 games: 11.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-3(5.5apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to German Hoops before the 2015 Eurochallenge Final 4 in Turkey.

Giordan thanks for talking to German Hoops. After playing in Germany, Iceland and Finland you have found a home in Romania. Is this a place where you could imagine finishing your career?

Thanks for having me. We have good chemistry here with the guys on the team, coaching staff and the club, but each year you have to decide what’s best for you. Playing well and being comfortable is something important to every player, but new challenges are always what I am looking for as well.

You play for team CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu and are in the playoffs. How good are the chances for your team that finished in fourth place to make a real run or even win the championship?

I think we have a really good chance to make a push. We are matched up with the defending champions, so it’s a big challenge ahead, but we are ready.

Last season you won the cup in Romania. Winning a cup is different than winning a league title. How special was this win and how did it compare to your cup win in Iceland in 2012?

Winning the cup is much different from winning a league title because it’s not a series. You win, and advance, or you lose and it’s over. You don’t have time to break down film after a game, you have to make in game adjustments, and anyone can win on any given day. When I won in 2012, our team was the favorite, but last season we shocked a lot of people, so last season was more special.

You are playing your second season with veterans Americans Porter Troupe and Louis Darby. How important have they been for the success of the team?

Darby and Troupe are great players, and better people. Porter Troupe is a really, REALLY smart player. He is our glue guy. His team first, selfless attitude has held us together and his knowledge of the game has helped me so much, and makes my job as a point guard much easier. Not to mention he is one of the best shooters I think i’ve ever played with. Darby has been great this year as well. He has had some injuries this season, and played through them without complaining. He has played out of position many times this season, and has done a great job. He is by far the best athlete I’ve played with and his determination to win this season has been inspiring. Hopefully, everyone can see what I know about them the rest of this season.

Congrats on the huge Eurochallenge season. I believe no one would have thought at the start that you could come so far. If someone would have told you at the start that you would come so far what would you have said to that person?

If someone told me that we would make it to the Final 4 in Eurochallenge, I honestly wouldn’t know what to say. I think a lot of credit goes to our group of guys as a whole. We have a new coach, Antonis Constantinides, and you can not believe how much of an impact he has had on our team, and our club in general. I always believed in my teammates, and with the addition of coach, it has been the difference.

One could say that CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu is a crunch time team. Without big wins at the end against Lukoil, Kormend, Enei Brindisi, Aalstar or Astana the team would not be in the Final four. How do you explain the secret of this success achieved so often at the end?

I think the thing with winning close games, home or away, is just to stay calm. You have to know going into the game that the other team will go on scoring runs, and you might get down big, but remain calm and keep playing. Same thing for the end of games, just stay calm and trust your coach and teammates.

Does the success of CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu show that even teams with perhaps a little less talent than other teams can be just as successful?

Well again, maybe I am strange, but I believe in my teammates and coaches. Our problem may be we are not the deepest team, but when I look at the roster of our team and then compare them to other guys we are playing, I don’t see the problem.

Is the degree of talent that one sees across teams in Europe in some cases not really as much when you compare a team like CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu or Le Mans?

Well, we have seen some unbelievably talented players this season. I could list names all day. Le Mans had very talented players, but I think it goes to show our strength as well.

It seemed like team play was key in the do or die game against Le Mans where you had six guys in double figures. Could unselfishness get you into the final in Turkey?

Unselfishness and having something to prove has been our thing all season. Of course nothing is perfect on the court, but when we play, we have a good feel for each other and just want to win games, more than individually do well. When we win, and play together, we all look great.

How important has the late addition of American Lamont Mack been? Does he give that needed extra offensive presence from the bench?

Adding Lamont Mack has been great. He gives us a toughness at the 4 spot, can play some 3 position, and reads the game well. He plays unselfish as well, so he fits in perfect. Mixed with him and Nemanja Milosevic, the 4 position is well covered.

You are the leading scorer on the team and average five assists per game. How have you developed your game in Romania in the last two years?

I feel good on the court. I have good chemistry with my teammates and coach has put the ball in my hands as a point guard and really trusted me. Prime is an interesting word, but I think things are going good. As a player, you really try not to think about that, you just go out and do your best.

CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu square off against Turkish team Trabzonspor Basketbol. What kind of game can we await?

The game with Trabzonspor will be a high intensity game. Both teams are very active on defense, and have different threats on offense. We are going into their home court so we have to play smart. I know their home court advantage will be strong, but its something we have to deal with.

How excited are you to playing against Americans Dee Bost and Dwight Hardy? Another chance for you to show what you can do against two guys that were close to the NBA.

Playing against great guards is always a challenge and that’s what makes the game fun. Opportunities to play in Final 4’s like this don’t come around often, so you have to take advantage while you can.

What will be key for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu reaching the final?

I think controlling the tempo and playing defense will be the key for us. On the road, you can’t rely on made jump shots or scoring the ball, so we have to play good defense and not let them get easy baskets on us.

The other semi final pits Frankfurt against Nanterre. What do you expect from that series and who will win?

Frankfurt and Nanterre should be a really good game. Both teams seem to be rolling in their domestic leagues, so a good game should be awaiting.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was Fast 7 and before that, Focus with Will Smith. Both were cool movies.

Thanks Giordan for the chat.