Thomas Miles (190-G, college: WPU) is a 190cm guard playing his rookie season overseas with ZuS 59 HammStars. He began his basketball career at Jefferson High School and then played a season at the College of Southern Idaho (JUCO) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 71.7%. He then played a season with Midland College (JUCO) averaging 12.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 79.2%. He played a game with Wayland Baptist University (NAIA) before finishing at Warner Pacific University (NAIA) averaging 9.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 86.3% and in his last season averaged 19.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 88.3%. He got his first pro experience with the Vancouver Volcanoes (TBL) averaging 16.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Thomas for talking to germanhoops.com. You played at 2 Juco schools and 2 NAIA schools. You have been paying your dues for years and now it will continue in Germany´s 4th division Regionalliga. How big is your heart to just keep grinding for the game you love?

My heart for the game is very deep, but I also think once you fall in love with the grind/game it makes everything else so easy.

How massive is your chip on your shoulder? Have you always been an underdog? Is your mentality at a different level because of what you have experienced in your basketball life?

I’ve always played with a chip on my shoulder coming out of high school I wasn’t highly recruited like these other guys I wasn’t able to be a 1 and done so the grind and the chip it’s always been there and it’s just keeps on growing. I got to prove to everyone that doubted me.

Congrats on signing with German Regionalliga team Hamm Stars. How blessed do you feel to get a job? I mean it isn´t self evident for guys from Juco and NAIA getting opportunities overseas like you have?

It definitely is a blessing whenever you can continue to play and thrive in any sport you love to play so I just can’t thank god enough with what he continues to do for me, a lot of people are slept on and not noticed enough because the route they took. Which sucks but it just makes the grind so much better.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Your ex coach Ty Harrelson has made a name here as well as JJ Culver and Collin Malcolm who played at one of your former schools.

I don’t know too much of anything about Germany but I’m really excited to go learn, my old coach Ty Harrelson and I had a few talks about his time in Germany and he loved it over there so I’m just ready to experience it for myself.

What was the deciding moment that allowed you to sign with the Hamm Stars?

After talking to coach Ivan, he made my decision really easy and he’s wants the same thing I want and that’s to win.

How did the talks go with head coach Ivan Rosic? What did you enjoy most about his basketball philosophy?

From what we talked about everything sounds lovely and he trusting me I can’t stop thanking him with the opportunity that he is giving me.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’m not sure who I play like I watch a lot of basketball so I take little things from every player and implement it to my game. But I don’t have a specific player that I can compare to.

You’re a player that is an allrounder. What do you feel like is your biggest strength on the court?

Playing defense I’ve been known for my defensive skill since I was a kid and I’m eager to play defense.

You are a lethal scorer. Would you already describe yourself as a 3 level scorer?

I’d I had to describe myself yes I think I am a 3 level scorer that can also lock up someone´s best player.

You made big strides with your three point shooting since going to Warner Pacific University. You were in the upper 30% and in the TBL eclipsed 40%. Do you see yourself being able to make an impact right away with Hamm with your shooting?

I’m trying to make an impact once I get there, I want my presence known, and want Hamm city to know they got them a baller.

Your very athletic and are an ambitious defender. How would you describe your defensive game at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

My defensive skills are good but they definitely can get better and I do think they will. I want to become like a Jrue Holiday he’s a lock down defender.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

This past summer I been working on a lot of different thinks but one key point me and my trainer was working on have been pick and rolls slowing my pace down and picking the defense apart.

You began your college career at the College of Southern Idaho (JUCO) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 71.7%. What memories do you have of this your second season after not playing your first season. What did you learn about yourself there in that 2 year span?

I have nothing but great memories about CSI that had a great skill and coaching staff when I was there, what I learned about myself was I was never going to give up. I’m not a quitter.

You then played at Midland College (JUCO) averaging 12.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 79.2%. How important was head coach Patrick Raferty in your development there?

A lot of people I’ve played with at Midland will probably not agree with me, but I believe Coach Rafferty got us in the best of shape regardless, if we liked it or not, he prepared as well to play a full game.

Every player I have interviewed that played Juco have said that Juco was a real grind, but one that they wouldn´t have missed for the world. How was it for you?

It was a real grind but it also was a slow grind not something that was just going to happen overnight. You had to go through a lot of obstacles going through juco but I loved every piece of it, it made me who I am today.

You then moved to Wayland Baptist University (NAIA) but Covid hit and cancelled the season after 1 game where you dropped 22 points. How tough was this season for you personally. What positives could you still get being there and being around Ty Harrelson?

I wish the stuff that happen down there didn’t happen I loved playing for coach Ty Harrelson who is a great coach but also treated us like his own, staying there what could have happened was the team that coach put together we would have made a lot of noise.

You then moved to Warner Pacific University (NAIA) averaging 9.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 86.3% and in your second season averaged 19.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 88.3%. How did your game grow in your last season?

Between these two seasons I put in a lot of work after my first year at Warner, I was also going through some things so it was hard for me but that summer I worked harder than I ever worked but it’s not done now I’m still working.

You had many great games there like against Bushnell and Oregon Tech. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

There was a lot of games I loved at Warner but if I had to pick I’d say our first round playoff game against Oregon Tech because they had just beat us like 4 days prior to that game and we went to their house and won when it counted.

How did head coach Jamayne Potts groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He just trusted me and put me in the best situation that I could be in. We always had talks and were watching film and figuring out what is it that I could do better and help the team so he did a lot but more of it was him trusting me and me trusting him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Isaac Etter?

Me and Isaac hardly played 1 on 1 but I’m sure he will tell you who won majority of the games

You got your first pro experience with the Vancouver Volcanoes (TBL) averaging 16.9ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.6%. What kind of an experience was that? Was it tough playing with so many guys playing for their stats?

It wasn’t tough at all I knew what I had to do and I did it. Regardless of where and who I’m playing I’m going to play my style of basketball anywhere I don’t shy away from no one.

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court in your life that reached the NBA?

I’ve played Payton Pritchard in the les Schwab invitational (LSI)

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Charles jones

Roberto Gittens

Myles Warren

Isaac Etter

Derrick Ogechi

What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads?

Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson

Who is your GOAT and why?

Kobe Bryant is my goat and because the way he approached games/practices and how he played was just fun to watch.

Thanks Thomas for the chat.

Timo Lanmueller (193-SG-2001) is a 23 year old Austrian-German 193cm shooting guard that is playing his first season with the Fraport Skyliners. He began his basketball career in the ratiopharm Ulm system playing in their youth program as well as for Pro B farm team Orange Academy. He was able to play 2 easyCredit BBL games. He then moved to the Tigers Tuebingen where he played parts of 4 seasons playing 100 pro A games and last season played 30 BBL games averaging 2.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.4apg. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 100-72 road win in Goettingen.

Congrats on the massive 100-72 win on the road in Goettingen. When you put offense and defense together, how perfect was this game tonight?

I think that it really helped that we had a really good shooting night. We shot really well from the 2 and 3 area. We have to work on our rebounding more. That has to get better.

Jacob Knauf made the 100th point. Did her get donuts?

No not yet. I hope they come.

How vital was the extra self confidence that the team had coming off the big cup win in Trier?

Our self-confidence was really high. I think it also helped that there were no real expectations for us and we could play more freely. Mentally we had a great approach to the game.

The Frankfurt Skyliners wanted to start the season with a bang and did it on the road. To how much % of coaches game plan came to reality in the game?

That is hard to say, but I would say 80-90%. I think that overall we had a very good offensive and defensive game.

The team had a huge first quarter scoring 29 points. Do you believe like maybe BG Goetingen underestimated you a bit? A team that just moved up?

I don´t think so. I think that we moved the ball well, shot well, and everyone was really comfortable in their roles. It also helped when you have two incredible ball handlers with Parsons and Calvin. I think that we just had a really good day.

Frankfurt presented a lethal offense of pretty inside out basketball. Is it a bit scary to see just how well the offense was working so early in the season?

It was really important that we played so well against a direct competitor in the standings. The question is can we do it consistently? We won´t shoot this well every game, so then we will have to find other ways to win through our defense or fighting qualities.

You got really vital play from Einaras Tubutis. How vital is it just having a guy like that on the floor within your offense?

He is so important for us in the paint area with Brenneke and Hepa still out. He plays so efficiently and just doesn´t make mistakes. Plus he is solid on defense.

Ed Croswell dished out 2 assists in a row. Just how talented is this big man with his passing skills?

He did a really good job reading the game when they hedged hard. He made really good decisions in the short roll.

In the second quarter Frankfurt continued to execute very well on offense and got everyone involved. BG Goettingen looked totally overwhelmed. How much credit did the second unit get?

The second unit was really important. We knew from the start that we had a deeper bench than they did. We could play harder and give the starters more rest. The second unit did a good job keeping the big lead over long courses of the game. They gave us an extra push.

BG Goettingen came out in the third quarter and slapped Frankfurt back in the face. They returned with a 12-2 run. What adjustments did they make and what break downs did you have as a team on the defensive end?

They began to play more aggressive at both ends of the court. They did all they could to get back in the game whether it was pushing or holding us. We lost our nerves for a short time and made dumb turnovers. We have to do a better job against Bamberg limiting these mistakes.

Wiggins and Godfrey were a tough duo to control. What player gave the team the bigger problems?

I think Wiggins gave us a tougher time as did Boeheim. We had problems on the switch. We still did a good job on them. They didn´t kill us. We found ways to stop them in deciding moments.

You were up only by 12 points. What did coach Wucherer tell the team to do going into the fourth quarter? You must of listed as the team belted a 18-1 run in the faces of the opponent.

He told us that we have to continue to get stops as everything starts with our defense. When we play good defense then we can get on transition. We stepped it up a gear in the fourth to win big.

The team just got everyone involved. David Muenkat began the fourth quarter with 5 points. He has been in the shadow of Parsons and Calvin, but seriously how important is he for the team?

He is so important. He is one of our defensive anchors and a freak athlete. He rebounds so well and when he has a good offensive game then it is perfect for us.

After a big blow out win like this how does one prepare for the next game against Bamberg?

Bamberg is a really strong team that is coached well by Anton Gavel. We have that revenge factor. They beat us badly by 30 points in pre season. We will do all we can this week, so we are best prepared.

You played 5 minutes getting 3 points. How vital is the bench time for you to learn new things. What was the most important thing you picked up in this game?

I watched a lot of Malik Parsons. His body language is really important. He is always aggressive and finds ways to score. Even through adversary, he finds ways to score. His body language is contagious on us. When he is aggressive, we are aggressive.

Thanks Timo for the chat.

After a long summer vacation, it was finally time for basketball again in the CGM arena for Koblenz, but now under the name Guardians. The name is perfect as the Koblenz team want to guard their home court as best as possible with strong basketball. They couldn´t have awaited a tougher opponent that the VFL SparkassenStars who opened up the season. Who could forget the bitter 2 point loss in Bochum or the thrilling 95-92 win at home last season where despite the loss, Koblenz witnessed a massive shooting clinic as Bochum nailed 20 three´s. Both teams were rebuilt and were looking for a very successful start into the new season. On paper it sure looked like the Guardians were the favorite as Bochum was without their top guard Niklas Geske and Killian Dietz but that didn´t deter them from giving all they had and surprising Koblenz by stealing one on the road 81-64. The EPG Baskets Koblenz began well, but Bochum stepped up their defense and from the second quarter until the end, Koblenz could never find a sound rhythm again. The EPG Guardians dug a hole for themselves in the second quarter and could never escape it. “We didn´t play like ourselves. That what you saw for 40 minutes tonight wasn´t Guardians basketball. We have to play our game in order to be successful”, warned American Ty Cockfield. The VFL Sparkassen Bochum were a few men short, but made super adjustments and found to their offense better in the second quarter which they held on to until the end. They fought and simply played like an underdog team. “We all knew how tough last season was. We came into this game seeing it as a second chance. We definitely played like an underdog and have that chip on our shoulder. We communicated well and never got too high or too low. We picked up our defense and when we are locked in, then we are a good defensive team”, warned Keith Braxton (196-G-1997, college: SFU).

TJ Cockfield at the FT line

The EPG Guardians didn´t waste any time jumping on the VFL SparkassenStars leading 13-4 in the first few minutes. What Guardian fans saw then was Guardians basketball. The basketball show was led by ex BBL player Dominique Johnson who drilled home 2 three´s and ex Alabama State (NCAA) great Ty Cockfield added 7 points. Cockfield showed quickly that he could take the league by storm and Johnson was his own usual self. “DJ was as physical as usual and you could see he is moving better than last year. As usual he held the team together”, stressed EPG Guardians sport director Thomas Klein. Koblenz was playing good team ball and playing very physical on ball defense that overwhelmed the guests. Koblenz also did a great job keeping Braxton away from the ball and closing down the three ball line. Instead of getting discouraged Bochum got the ball inside and was led by ex TV Langen big man Tom Alte and also got some easy buckets on transition as Koblenz was napping. It also helped that Bochum went to zone that brought Koblenz out of their rhythm. But luckily for the EPG Guardians Koblenz, they still led 17-12 after 10 minutes. “We had a strong start. Bochum seemed overwhelmed by our physical defense. But Bochum then went to zone and also ran their plays better. We played strong defense keeping them off the three point line”, said Thomas Klein. “We came out flat, but we then communicated better and matched their physicality and brought more energy coming back into the game”, added Keith Braxton.

Keith Braxton jumper

In the second quarter came the turning point of the game where the VFL SparkassenStars went on a lethal 12-1 taking the double digit lead and never ever looked back. American Michael Bradley who last played at Mercyhurst (NCAA2) began the second quarter with a three pointer for the 20-14 advantage. However Bochum once again proved that basketball will always be a game of runs as they went on a 12-1 run to lead 32-21. In the run the guests got back to back three´s from German Lars Kamp who played 3 seasons with the Hamburg Towers and Braxton to get the run going. That stifled Koblenz as Bochum continued to play smart playing inside out ball and drawing 3 fouls and getting easy free throw points. German Emil Loch who last played with Iserlohn also connected on a trey. Bochum played strong defense forcing Koblenz to hold the ball to long and forcing them to more tough shots. Johnson stopped the run with a clutch trey and Cockfield used his quickness for an easy lay up getting Koblenz to 32-25, but Bochum just wouldn´t let up and just continued to execute well with the drive and mid distance shot as Braxton, Alte and ex Hillsdale (NCAA2) forward Peter Kalthoff scored for the 39-31 lead. Koblenz didn´t go into the break holding their heads, but finished strongly with 2 key three´s from American rookie Kasey Draper and Johnson to trail only 41-37 after 20 minutes. “We increased our energy in that run. Once we got more stops and went on transition, that also increased our confidence level”, commented Keith Braxton. “We totally lost our rhythm in that run, but we fought back. They scored a lot on 1-1 play and took our drive and passing lanes away”, expressed Thomas Klein.

Dominque Johnson jumper

One would of thought after only trailing by 4 points at the break, that the EPG Guardians would come out more focused, but instead totally lost track mustering only 5 points the whole quarter while Bochum sealed the win early with 22 points to lead 63-42 after three quarters. The VFL SparkassenStars threw a rapid 10-0 run into the faces of the Guardians and extended their lead to 51-37. In the run, they got buckets from Lars Kamp and ex Hagen point guard Jonas Grof while Braxton continued being dangerous making a lay in. On Kamp´s first basket, his turnaround shot looked something out of Steph Curry´s bag of tricks. “The clock was down and that was a momentum changer. He hits big shots, that was nothing new to me”, stated Keith Braxton. Bochum´s offense was calm and their execution rate was incredible as they just ran their plays with patience and got good results. Koblenz wasn´t able to come to terms with their physicality on defense as they were forced to numerous turnovers. Even after Draper stopped the run with a trey, Bochum didn´t quit, but just kept pushing forward and got 6 unanswered points from Keith Braxton who just strolled into the zone and did what he wanted to giving Bochum the 57-40 advantage. “I began slowly, but coach Banobre told me at the bench to calm myself down and recollect myself. My teammates did a good job finding me and instilling confidence in me. My confidence rose with every new shot I made”, stressed Keith Braxton. Ex PS Karlsruhe center Maurice Pluskota stopped the Braxton run with a lay in on transition, but Bochum just kept executing going on a 6-0 run as Kalthoff and Alte scored and ex Southeastern Louisiana University (NCAA) guard Matthew Strange dropped free throws for the 21 point advantage. “We played a really strong quarter. We continued to score pilling it up and increasing our lead”, said Keith Braxton. “We became frustrated and got on ourselves unable to regain our composure. Our energy was down and they did a great job capitalizing on our mistakes”, stressed Ty Cockfield.

Matthew Strange at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the EPG Guardians executed better on offense, but couldn´t get stops as Bochum continued to execute well on offense as well. Cockfield got back to back baskets in the first few minutes, but Bochum always had an answer with a Kamp lay in and hard Alte dunk as Bochum still led 68-46. Dominque Johnson continued to show that he can take on responsibility scoring 5 points, but Koblenz just couldn´t get stops. Bochum just continued to move the ball well and get to their spots as Grof made a pretty turnaround shot, Braxton a lay in and Alte another dunk for the 77-61 advantage. Bradley added a lay in late, but the guests got more insurance baskets as Kalthof made free throws and Alte a turnaround shot. “Basketball is a game of runs. We played better in the fourth quarter. We fought hard, but dropped this game. We have to watch video. We will be ready next Sunday for Dresden”, warned Ty Cockfield. “I´m proud how well we ended the game despite being up by 21 points. We remained focused on the game plan and executed to the end”, stressed Keith Braxton. The VFL SparkasseStars were led by Keith Braxton with 26 points. Tom Alte added 14 points while Lars Kamp and Jonas Grof added 11 pointsa apiece while the EPG Guardians Koblenz were led by Ty Cockfield with 20 points while Dominque Johnson added 19 points. The VFL SparkassenStars Bochum shot 51% from the field and 26% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the EPG Guardians Koblenz shot 40% from the field and 36% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 24 turnovers.

Going into the 2024-205 season, it will be the second season already where the Frankfurt Skyliners will be without their legend Quantez Robertson who retired in 2023. How time flies. This season fans will be able to reminisce during a time out or a break in play about the good old days when Tez was doing his magic. Wheather it was feeding Dashaun Wood for a back door lay up, hitting the game winner against Oldenburg or just flashing that winners smile. That won´t be forgotten for sure. The Skyliners live on and much have happened since Tez left. Last season the organization had to pay their dues in the pro A. They played a very strong season just missing winning the pro A title which PS Karlsruhe won simply playing a better finals and wanting it more. The Skyliners biggest goal is getting back to the BBL, a place they had been at since the 1999-2000 season. Denis Wucherer has remained, but the club has added very interesting new parts for this season´s challenge. The biggest question isn´t if they can stay in the league which is their goal, but moreover can they take a further step and reestablish themselves again in the BBL? The playoffs will be a reach, but where can this team land in May 2025? This season once again will be an exciting one. One thing is for sure, the Frankfurt Skyliners don´t want to see the Pro A again.

One of the more difficult summer time jobs for head coach Denis Wucherer was building a BBL roster that would be competitive, but also be affordable from what the budget has to offer. That is easier said than done. The club held onto 5 players and also brought back another one with Einares Tubutis who had played with the club 2 seasons ago. The team has enough 3 point weapons, so he will be able to concentrate more in the paint and being that added rebound force. The club held on to Booker Coplin (191-G-1997, college: Augsburg, agency: BIG) and David Muenkat who last season were vital performers in the Pro A. Coplin is a player every coach loves simply because of his no prisoner attitude and effort that he gives on the court. The ex Augsburg (NCAA3) player plays with non stop energy and just does all he can to help the team win, if it means scoring, dishing, rebounding or making an impact on the defensive end. Muenkat who likes to play in the CEBL in Canada during summer vacation was another one of the big hero´s from last season that was known for big dunks, but just was so versatile on the offensive end and on defense belonged to the best defenders on the team. He was a mismatch nightmare and is extremely hungry to make the next step in the BBL. The club also held on to ex NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke who began the pre season injured, but once fit will be a vital big in the paint area. Give him the ball near the rim and you´ll get an automatic bucket. He is a presence at both ends and is simply fearless with all the elbows being thrown around. The team also held on to versatile inside out player Jacob Knauf. He is a forward with extreme elegance on the court and a solid three pointer. He will give added stability at the big positions. Bruno Albrecht was also kept, but played no role in last years team. The talented German who was a walking bucket 2 seasons ago in Hanau will have it very difficult to break the rotation this season.

Many new faces were hauled in during the summer and the 2 most potent were rookie Trey Calvin and veteran Malik Parsons. Both showed in the pre season that they are a lethal scoring duo that have no problems putting points up on the board. Parson´s came to Frankfurt after winning the double with Danish top team Bakken Bears last season. The ex scoring machine from Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NCAA2) is a freak athlete and could bring back memories of a young Tez with his fast break spurts and leaps to the rim. But it isn´t just hiss coring touch, but he has also proved to be a fine playmaker. Calvin is a talented kid from Wright State where a certain Dashaun Wood learned his craft 20 years ago. Calvin knows perfectly when to score and when to dish out the dime. He was mostly a catch and shoot player in the NCAA and wants to become more of a threat from the parking lot this year. Defensively he is a pest and wants to become one of the best defenders where ever he plays. The team also added undersized big man Ed Croswell from Providence College who was a beast in the Turkish second league. He is a great rebounder and even more important teammates just love him. A positive check mark for Wucherer in the character department. The club brought back Garai Zeeb who had previously played 4 seasons in Frankfurt and was part of the 2016 Fiba Europe Cup winning team. He is a calm point guard who has great leadership skills, There won´t be a better German point guard coming from the bench in the BBL. The team also brought in 2 other talented Germans with the experienced Christoph Phillips who has 6 years of BBL experience with teams Ulm, Hamburg and Tuebingen. He is a defensive orientated player that can get hot from outside, but also likes to give out assists. 23 year old Timo Lanmuller is another talented German that still has a lot of potential. His shot is his weapon, but he is extremely hungry to become a better defender once his athleticism improves and he can be more physical. The last new addition Kamaka Hepa perhaps the most interesting signing. He has great length and will really bolster the front court with his rebounding work. After an up and down rookie season in Poland and Latvia, he is hungry to show what he can do after being injured in pre-season.

The staple of the Fraport Skyliners was always defense during the tenure of Gordon Herbert and last season was also the big focus in Wucherer´s system. Last season they were the top defensive teams in the Pro A and want to keep it up their upward trend in the BBL, but will they have the personal to achieve that? The BBL is faster and more athletic and the players will really have to want to defend. Offensively play good team basketball as well as having the transition game on display as much as possible. The team have no BBL veteran that has played many minutes consistently and been a force offensively as guys like Zeeb, Philips, Lanmueller and Brenneke are still looking for that real break through. The team picked up talented players, but guys that have no BBL experience. It will be interesting to see how quickly the new imports get adjusted to the BBL. A lot of responsibility will lie on the shoulders of Calvin and Parsons. So far in the pre-season, both players were great, but how well will they play in the second half of the season when teams know the scouting report better? Guys like Brenneke and Philips have to step up and be consistent on a regular basis. But the deciding factor as to how well the team can compete on a nightly basis is how well do Muenkat and Coplin get adjusted to the BBL. They team will need more consistent input from them as well. The win in Trier was incredibly important for the self-confidence. Getting off to a good start from the start will be vital. I see the Frankfurt Skyliners somewhere between 11-16. It always depends how many injuries occur. The team has talent and character and showed in pre-season that team chemistry was being built. Finally there is BBL basketball in Frankfurt again. Now the team has to keep it in Frankfurt.

In the last years the massive rise of the EPG Guardians Koblenz from the Regionalliga to the Pro A has been such an enriching thing to observe in German basketball. In between the club had some real talented point guards in Marvin Heckel and Alani Moore in the last 3 years. These 2 exceptional players ran the team and had a big part in the club being able to move up from the Pro B to the Pro A. Heckel wasn’t that dominant scoring point guard, but the player that led the team and just played for the team while Alani Moore was that dominant player that could score whenever needed and just gave the fans so much delight with his up tempo play at both ends of the court. The signings of talented guards continued this season as Marco Van Den Berg and Thomas Klein reeled in Ty Cockfield Jr. (183-PG-1996, college: Arkansas St., agency: BIG) which at first didn’t ring any bells, but as soon as you saw him on the court in pre season, you knew he is the real deal. He is a diminutive guard, but his chip on his shoulder is as heavy as 4 Shaq’s on your back. The player dominated the NCAA with Arkansas State as a senior averaging 22,0ppg, but all it led to was a rookie season in Austria and 2 seasons in Kosvo. All 3 were productive, but like so many other talented Americans overseas, he has had to pay his dues. Now he has the chance to make the next step in a higher league with the Pro A. Sometimes 3 is a charm, but with Cockfield, it’s 2 is a charm as they already wanted to sign him last season. His chip is massive and he is ready as his journey up the basketball ladder continues. ‘6 AM mornings. Thousands of reps and hours later. The grind has been nothing short of amazing. I fell in love with stacking great days no matter the circumstances. I had to learn to love the process and the journey so I won’t take my destination for granted. It’s like the doubt and being overlooked made me who I am. Every level I’ve made it to, I had to prove myself and prove that not only do I belong but I’m one of the greatest doing it. This level won’t be any different, my time is coming and it’ll stay. I definitely have that underdog mentality. Put in too much work for anyone to even have to question if I can produce and be successful on any level. The grind and journey is the most important part of it all. I’ve been putting in the work consistently since a little kid, I’m just waiting for the world to notice it. Making it to Germany has given me the opportunity to continue showing the world who I am’, warned Ty Cockfield Jr.. He is the real deal and is he a future MVP material in the Pro A? ‘Ty will be one of the top guards in the Pro A this season’, warned EPG Guardians Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. He showed his unbelievable quickness in pre-season and effectiveness penetrating to the hoop. There is no stopping him. Either a score or a trip to the foul line. Fans will love him this season.

Head coach Marco Van Den Berg and Thomas Klein didn’t have their work cut out for themselves this summer as they did a considerable house cleaning. They only kept 5 players keeping a healthy core. The most important player to be kept had to be Dominique Johnson. You just have to love this guy. He is a ruthless competitor that plays for the team and is the identity figure. His team mentality is incredible and he just gives 100% every game and is like a second coach on the floor. One has to remember he came to Pro B team Koblenz years ago despite having Pro A offers. The club also held big man Maurice Pluskota who for years belonged to the best big men in the Pro A averaging 12/6 in 6 seasons with PS Karlsruhe and leading them to 4 playoff appearances in 6 years. He doesn’t have to do as much offensively as in the past, but his leadership skills and inside presence are huge. The club also held on to Moses Poelking who belonged to the best defensive centers in the Pro B 2 years ago. His stats were down from his 11/6 season in 22-23, but he averaged 7/4 last season and is the genuine rim protector. Sniper Leon Friderici was also kept. He showed his consistency last season despite being many scoring options on the team averaging 10,0ppg. His ability to score in bunches and drill home clutch three’s is his bread and butter. The team also held on to young German Oluwadamilola Ade-Eri. The 22 year old only played 6 Pro A games last season, but has gotten considerable more minutes this pre-season and seems to be in the plans for more minutes from Van Den Berg.

Besides Cockfield, the EPG Guardians Koblenz hauled in 5 more players with 4 Americans and 1 German. Perhaps the second most interesting player the club picked up after Cockfield is Bryce Workman. He is the son of 10 year NBA veteran Haywood Workman and is a rookie out of Jacksonville (NCAA) university. The Julius Randle type player is a rebound monster with a great IQ and can defend 1-5. He could evolve into one of the top power forwards in the Pro A. The club also brought in another rookie with Michael Bradley from N Kentucky (NCAA) who is a point guard and likes to model his game after Chris Paul. He is another guard that will give scoring support, but also can turn into that passing playmaker at any time while giving intense on ball defense. The club also reeled in Alin Blunt who has professional experience in Romania and Luxemburg. He plays like Jalen Williams and is another scoring option as he can score at all 3 levels. He also fits into the defense picture in that he is a versatile defender. The organization also signed Kasey Draper another guard who is also a rookie. He also has a chip on his shoulder in that he was a scoring machine at division 3 school Roanoke and division 2 school Assumption. He has Grayson Allen qualities in that he hit the 40% plateau from down-town at both schools. He has that interesting quality in that he will drive first in games before unveiling his potent three pointer. He has a high IQ, is a versatile defender and is also very physical that also will fit in well with how the Guardians will play. The last signing was German Jakob Hanzalek, another young player at age 21. He played a season of Pro A with Ehingen when he was 18 years old averaging 5,1ppg. He began his career in the ratiopharm Ulm system and has Pro B experience with Wedel, Karlsruhe and Leitershofen. He still has a lot of upside as his three is still a work in progress. He is a calm player that will bring stability from the bench to the playmaking.

After their disappointing 16th place finish last season, it is obvious that the club wants to record a way better season. The ambitions of the organization have always been sky high and it isn’t any different with Thomas Klein who lives for the club and really bleeds green. ‘Our goal this season is to stay in the league and not leave any doubts about having to worry about staying in the league. We want to be saved as quickly as possible. I see us landing somewhere between 7-12’, stressed Thomas Klein. The club always wants to offer high class basketball and this season with this roster fans will see a very interesting brand of basketball. ‘We will play very aggressive and have a big focus on defense and rebounding. We will play dynamic and play much transition. The team has a lot of determination that will never give up. Every player will play for the other and they will have the greatest will to defend as is seen with our new team name Guardians’, warned Thomas Klein. It will really be interesting where the journey of the EPG Guardians will go this season. The club picked up interesting players, but one has to remember that there are 3 rookie Americans. How quickly will they get adjusted to the Pro A style and physicality? The club had already shown a nice growing chemistry in pre-season and will have to integrate Draper and Blunt as rapidly as possible. The 2 key figures will be Cockfield and Workman who could become 2 dominant players in the league. Key will be that when they possibly have off nights, that there will be enough others to fill in the holes. On paper, this club is very strong, but so is the Pro A that continues to get stronger each season. The offense will be fine, but the question will be how well can the team defend week in and week out? I see the club between 9-15. One thing is for sure that there is a lot of excitement and confidence with Thomas Klein about this team. ‘The team this season is like night and day compared to last season. We have distinct balance in the roles of the players. Every player knows what he has to do and they want to play together. There are no ego’s on the team. Cockfield plays for the team’, warned Thomas Klein. After last years season, it can only get better in Koblenz and it will get better.

Peter Kalthoff (206-F-1999, college: Hillsdale) is a 206cm forward that is palying hiss econd professional season and first in Germany with the VFL SparkassenStars Bochum (Pro A). Last season he played with BK Iskra Svit (Slovakia-Nike SBL) playing 31 games averaging 15.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT-2 (42.4%), FT: 72.6%. He began his basketball career at Hillsdale high school and then played at Hillsdale College (NCAA2) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 64 games. In his senior year he averaged 14.1ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 68.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Pro A game against the EPG Guardians Koblenz.

You’re playing your second pro season and first in Germany with the VfL SparkassenStars Bochum. What kind of an experience has it been so far?

It has been a good experience so far. There is always a period of adjustment but I am thankful for the opportunity to be in Bochum.

What were the main reasons for joining the VfL SparkassenStars Bochum? What kind of perspective
did you see for yourself by joining this organization?

The family culture, the hunger to work hard, and the conversations I had with the staff.

I thought this would be a good step for my career and a good situation for my family.

How did the talks go with head coach Felix Banobre? What did you like most about his basketball
philosophy?

I appreciated that Coach Felix wanted to take a step forward with the club and that he treated me as a whole person, both a basketball player and a human being. I liked that he has experience and wanted to play in a way that would challenge me to improve but also fit my game as it is as well.

After a season in Slovakia, you have moved to the German Pro A. This league is a bit better than in
Slovakia. What will be your role and can you be that impact player?

I think all the roles on the team are important, and essential, in their different ways. A winning team always has a group of men doing their jobs well. I hope to have a significant role and if I do my role well then I think I will have a good impact on our team and bring to fruition the staff’s vision for the team.

How do you and Keith Braxton compliment each other best. How vital will his offensive versatility be
for the success on offense?

I have enjoyed playing with Keith thus far. I think we complement each other well because we have similar effort and approach and of course partly because we play different positions.

How much fun is it playing with Matthew Strange? Who wins a three point shooting contest?

It is always good fun to have an excellent shooter on the perimeter.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. Would you describe yourself as a modern day big man? You can shoot the three well and do all the other things that a 206cm forward does?

yes

You also have a very good IQ. Is that something that came gradually over time or was that something
that you always had?

Gradually over time, I still have much learning to do.

What kind of a defender would you classify yourself now and what kind of defender do you want to
become in the future?

A solid on-and off-ball defender and I would like to become a great on-and off-ball defender.

On what other areas of your game are you working on so you can continue to improve your game?

ball handling, decision-making, efficiency, everything.

You played your rookie season with BK Iskra Svit (Slovakia-Nike SBL): 31
games: 15.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT-2 (42.4%), FT: 72.6%. How tough was it going
overseas after having been at home your whole life through Division 2? What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I played at a high-level Division 2 school so being on the basketball court didn’t feel that far from home last year. It was outside of the gym felt the most different in Slovakia. The increased level of physicality was one feature that was quite different from college last year. I had to adapt and learn some new skills. There was definitely and still is a learning curve.

You really had some monster games in Slovakia with a 30 point game and 7 three´s against Levice.
What was your fondest moment there?

I think we threw that game away and lost in the last seconds so it was not that game. We had a big win on the road vs Komarno that was a fun memory but there were a lot of fun team moments last year.

You played at Hillsdale College (NCAA2) from 2018-2023. In your first 4 seasons you only played 35
games and were injured also. In your last season you played 29 games. How tough were the first
years there?

They were quite challenging of course because I would have liked to play more minutes but also a wonderful opportunity to grow in different ways and learn what it means to be part of a winning team in different ways.

You finally had your break out season in your fifth season averaging 14.1ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT66.7%, FT: 68.1%. How did your game grow that last season?

I knew that my time would come and I had been preparing to be ready for that moment so it was more than just that last year that my game grew. But experience on the court in game situations is impossible to replicate so that was an important area of growth.

You had many great games at Hillsdale including a 29/10 game against Northwood. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest memory from Hillsdale was going to the NCAA2 Elite Eight in my fourth year. I broke my hand at the end of that season but I had an important role that year and loved my teammates and the journey.

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

In many ways, on the court, he helped shape me into the player I am today, and off the court, he helped me see what basketball is about and how it reflects all of life. I am very grateful to him and the whole coaching staff at Hillsdale for their investment in me and confidence in my abilities.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Eric Radisevic?

Eric is a very skilled big man, and he definitely would score some points but I must take me and my age and experience.

Who I the toughest player that you ever faced in your life anywhere on the court that reached the
NBA?

Aaron Wheeler was in Slovakia-Nike SBL last year and he won the league MVP, I think he spent a little bit of time in the G-league and was very skilled.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Not necessarily as individual players but as teammates for a squad: Jack Gohlke, Patrick Cartier, Kyle Goessler, Julius Brown, Joe Reuter.

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Jordan, Kobe, Curry, KD

Who is your Goat and why?

Lebron do I need to say why?

Thanks Peter for the chat.

Christopher Miller (192-G-1993, college: Salem) is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who has 9 years of pro experience under his belt. His last team overseas was the GoldCoast Wallabies NLB (2nd League) where he averaged 20.6ppg, 4.8rpg, Assists-5 (4.4apg), Steals-1 (2.9spg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 79.8%. He played 3 seasons with the Giessen Pointers (Germany-RegionalligaThis season for Bensheim he averaged 19,5ppg, 3,8rpg, 2,0apg and 1,5spg. He has had experience in countries like El Salvador and Bosnia. He recently played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing 8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at Clinton Community College and also played two years at Salem University (NCAA2). He recently played with the Tri-State Admirals (BSL). He spoke to germanhoops.com earlier in the summer about the 2024 NBA finals.

Thanks Chris for talking to germanmhoops.com We have to talk basketball. The Boston Celtics finally won a title again since their last in 2008. How good is this for the NBA in general to have the Celtics back on the map?

This year has been really competitive. I am happy some guys from the Celtics have won a championship. I was rooting for Philly but to see JB get the MVP was also good.

Boston have had many critics the last years saying they didn´t have enough to win a title. Did this title surprise you a bit or did you see it coming?

I think once they got Jrue Holiday it completed their team. I feel he is a better more mature Marcus Smart. Him and White bring a crazy Defensive backcourt.

What was different this year? Was it just another year of experience for Tatum and Brown?

The fact they had a great team mixed with Tatum and Brown. Also a year of maturity and experience of being there already it was a perfect mixture.

What was your prediction going into the finals? Did you have Dallas or Boston winning it all?

I would have liked to see Kyrie win one for the story line but it is hard to bet against a full stacked team.

Both teams had 2 superstars a piece. If you had to rate the 2 against each other, which team would have the better complete package? Wouldn´t Dallas have the edge

If you go 2v2 Dallas won but team vs team its Celtics 10 VS Dallas 4 maybe.

Boston had the better supporting cast, but seriously would the Boston Celtics have won the title without Jrue Holiday?

No chance Jrue was the missing piece. He gives every guard hell on the defensive end and it shows.

Does this title run make him a top 5 point guard?

He is an underrated pg for sure Top5 is hard to get but he is making a good argument.

What is your perception of Luka Doncic not playing defense? Is it fair for his teammates that he plays so much and has to do so much offensively that he can take plays off on defense?

I think he is doing what he is paid to do. He does so much on the court already any defense you get from him is a bonus.

If you had to pick an unsung hero of the Boston Celtics who would it be? Would Derrick White be a good candidate?

Him and Jrue would have to share that title.

Is Jayson Tatum a top 5 NBA player now with this title?

JT is a top 5 player no question.

Could the Boston Celtics be a dynasty in the making? If you could add one piece who would it be?

I don´t think they need another piece. Only way I see them adding something is if Horford retires and they get another big for rim protection.

Thanks Chris for the chat

Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard that will play his third fourth season and first with Pro B team TSV Neustadt temps Shooters. Last season he played with BG Hagen averaging 30.1ppg, 9.0rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.0%. In 2022-2023 he split time with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 31.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 6.1apg, 3.6spg, 2FGP: 56.2%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 77.6%, in Jan.’23 moved to BG 2000 Berlin (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 64.4%. He began his career at Jenks High School and then played 3 seasons at Southwestern Christian University. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Shawn for talking to germanhoops.com. Are you still in Germany playing 3×3 ball? How has that experience been for you?

Thanks for having me. I’m leaving to go back to the states on Saturday but I stopped officially from playing 3×3 for the rest of my time here. It was a great experience and so fast paced which I loved. I was able to get a couple of event wins and overall played against some good competition.

Is it a tough adjustment playing 3 against 3 then 5 against 5?

For me not really. I think 3×3 is a lot of ball movement and moving without the ball along with iso play which I would say I’m good at all of those things.

Can you improve certain areas of your game playing 3 vs 3 ball?

That’s a good question and I never thought about that until now. I’d say maybe being more creative with a short amount of time and moving way more without the ball.

Congrats on signing with pro B team Neustadt. How good does it feel to finally be a pro B player?

It feels really great and I’m thankful to finally have the opportunity. I’m very excited for this upcoming season and I’m determined to make a great season.

You worked your whole career to reach this level. Does it feel like a dream has come true?

Honestly when I first came to Germany playing in Oberliga, I would go watch 1st regio games and say “man I want to play here too”. Now fast forward I’m even passed that point is just unreal so I think yes it’s a dream come true but I’m not satisfied with that and have much more to achieve.

How was the job market this summer? Did you get any other interesting offers?

This summer was kind of hectic with the job market for me. A good amount of interest and offers came quite early for me and it was stressful because I wanted to wait until every offer had been made but at the same time, teams needed answers quick. But overall Neustadt was the one that showed the most interest and saw my worth so I’m glad to be there next season.

What made the TSV Neustadt temp Shooters club the right pick for you?

When I had talked to the manager and the coach on the phone, they basically told me that I’m the guy they want to make a statement in Pro B and they had been watching me for a while now. Essentially, they were going to let me be myself and not limit me and as I told you before that was the most important thing for me in making my decision. They will get the very best of me and they will be able to trust me all season.

How did the talks go with coach Lars Buss? What sold you on his philosophy?

Just pretty much that he trusts me and my decision making on the court and he believes that I will make everyone around me better. Along with the roster and the newcomers, it was a fairly easy choice after that.

How excited are you to be teammates with top player Dyon Doehki? You 2 could become a lethal duo in the Pro B.

Very excited for sure. We only played each other three times but I know that he has the experience and knows how to win and play the right way so I’m ready to learn new things from him and just dominate together.

What is your goal with the Temp Shooters? Last season with BG Hagen you played for the title and is this season the goal to remain in the pro B?

I think for sure the goal is to remain in Pro B but me personally I’m always thinking big so all in all I just want to win games and have the longest season possible.

How aware are you that you probably won´t average 30 points per game. What kind of player will the pro B see next season?

I’m more than aware. I hope people really don’t think that I’m expecting to score a bunch of points every game. At this point, it’s all about winning and if I do my part and it contributes to winning, I’m more than happy for our team. I plan to be the same player I was last season and I won’t change anything about my style of play as long as the coaches allow it. I’m very coachable so I´m willing to do what it takes to better the team always.

What area of your game will have to be tweaked most so the pro B will see the best version of you?

I don’t think anything necessarily has to be tweaked but I have to be able to take and make outside shots. Just like last season, I want to be unpredictable and not let teams think they have me figured out and I know it will be even harder next season but I’ll be more than prepared for everything mentally and physically. The best version of me is when I’m myself on the court and I don’t have to think but I think this year will go just fine.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

Marko Rosic (176-PG-2005) is a 18 year old 176cm point guard playing his second season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. Last season with the Dragons he averaged 5.1ppg, 1.3rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 27.7%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 74.4% in the Pro B and also played also at Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (NBBL) averaging 20.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 84.8%. He began his career in Munster where he played JBBL and then moved to Orange Academy in 2020. In the 2021-2022 season he played with BBU 01 Ulm (Regionalliga) averaging 7.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 73.8% and with Orange Academy U19 team (NBBL) averaging 16.6ppg, 6.4rpg, Assists-3 (5.8apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 36.1%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 83.3%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with Orange Academy Ulm (ProB) averaging 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 36.7%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT-20 (93.3%) and with BBU 01 Ulm (Regionalliga) averaging 14.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 7.9apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 39.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 87.0%. He spoke to eurobasket after the massive 111-76 win over Pro B team Iserlohn.

Congrats on the massive 111-76 victory over Iserlohn. Did this seem more like a practice game for you?

One can´t forget that this was a pre-season game. They didn´t play their best game, but they still have a very good team. Maybe this was a sort of wake up call for them. Sometimes a loss like this is helpful to see what you really need to work on.

The Dragons Rhondorf played a great offensive game for 40 minutes. What American grade would you give it?

I would give it a B+. I think that our flow was missing at times during the game. We also got a bit sloppy at the end. I felt like we had good execution, but not good enough.

What was your summary how the Dragons Rhondorf played for 40 minutes?

To be honest, I ´m very happy how we played. When you think that we had 2 players missing with Janne Mueller and Danas Kazakevicius and guys like Kelvin Omojola and Tim Smith practicing mostly with the Telekom Baskets Bonn, we played a really good game tonight. We really don´t practice much together as a team, so I think we showed very good chemistry.

The Dragons scored 30 points in the first quarter. Talk about how vital the energy from the bench was?

We had a really good start which was important. We have to always start like that. If you don´t then you will get eaten up in the Pro B. We got great input from the bench with much energy.

In the second quarter the Dragons kept the pressure on and really broke open the game having 66 points at the break. What was the turning point in the quarter?

We never let up, but just kept pushing forward. We knew that this was Dragon Day and we wanted to give a good performance for the fans. We never gave up.

Alex Lagerman had a strong game with 20 points and showed how potent his three pointer is. He seems to be coming out of his shell nicely.

He is finding his game. It is vital that he get to know the game of mine and Kelvin Omojola. He is finding his spots better. I told him before the game to be ready that I would find him.

What did coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team in half-time for the upcoming third quarter?

We made some adjustments on defense. He wasn´t concerned with our offense, but just told us to keep pushing on defense getting stops.

In the second half young Germans Vuk Scepanovic and Josh Behrendt gave great energy and minutes. How important was it giving them playing time n ow?

When young guys like that come in, then they have to take advantage of the opportunity. I think that the team did a good job getting them integrated. We ran some plays for them and found them. Getting minutes is important for their development. They gave 100%.

I love the game of Dyami Janneck. Is he the next Janne Mueller?

That is a tough question. Dyami is a good player. He has received the trust and has the confidence to play free. He is on a very good way, but he needs to keep working. He isn´t a second Janne Mueller, but he will find his way.

Tim Smith Jr had another great game scoring 29 points. Could he become the first scoring option this season?

He is a very good scorer and we are starting to find him better. We have some plays for him and I´m able to find him. Slowly we are coming into a flow. He could be that top scorer. I feel that this season we will have many tóp scorers. I think that we will be more dangerous than last season.

In the fourth quarter one could see Iserlohn guard Jose Mejias trying to organize certain players on his team. Was it surprising see so much disorganization so late in pre season?

It was a little surprising to see the disorganization. I don´t know why, but I´m sure the coaching staff will address and they work on it.

You had another great game scoring 19 points, dishing out assists and playing solid defense. How happy were you with your game?

I´m happy with my pre-season. I thought that I played well against Pro A team Koblenz. It is important having the double license with Bonn. It will definitely help me further with my development. I have improved my shot and my self-confidence is high. I will keep working hard and hope I will have a good season.

The regular season is slowing creeping closer. What does the team still need to tweak to be ready for the first game in Fellbach?

We have tweak some of the small things on defense and just work more on our flow and rhythm so we will be ready for Fellbach.

Thanks Marko for the chat.

Garai Zeeb (187-PG-1997) is a 27 year old 187cm point guard that was born in Leimen, Germany an dis playing his 5th season for the Frankfurt Skyliners. Last season he helped PS Karlsruhe win the Pro A title averaging 10.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.7apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 68.7%;He began his career with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and played his first easyCredit BBL game at 17 against FC Bayern Munich. He played parts of 7 seasons in the BBL with the Eisberen, Fraport Skyliners and Basketball Lowen Braunschweig amassing 107 games and also played 87 Pro B games. He also has played 108 Pro A games with the Romerstrom Gladiators and PS Karlsruhe. He spoke to eurobasket after the big 71-68 cup win in Trier.

Congrats on the massive 71-68 win in cup action against Trier. How good does it feel to beat your ex team?

This win was nice. It feels really good. But for us any win is big.

How do you think was the feeling after this win in comparison to game 5 last season for Frankfurt?

That´s hard to say. Obviously the game 5 win was more emotional, but I think this win was very important as well in preparation for the start of the BBL season.

With what kind of an attitude did the team come into the game? Do you feel like the Americans even understood how big of a game this was?

I think they did. Coach Wucherer stated enough times this week how important the game was. The guys knew that this game would not be easy.

Trier jumped all over Frankfurt in the first quarter leading 19-11. Do you feel like you were overwhelm a bit by the crowd and atmosphere?

I think it is never easy as a new formed team to play against a well working team like Trier that has good chemistry. Trier did a really good job not allowing us to find our rhythm. With time we found it.

Trier shared the ball really nice and just showed their great team chemistry. What was missing on the defensive end for Frankfurt?

We had problems maintaining their big men.

Frankfurt rallied and came back in the second thanks to the hot shooting of Trey Calvin. How good is this rookie?

He is a great player. He really knows how to score the ball. His mid distance shot is also really good. Not to forget he has an excellent three pointer and knows how to create for his teammates. It is not a surprise how well he is playing

Are their similarities to maybe a Justin Cobbs who also was a rookie with Frankfurt a season before you arrived? Do you remember Cobbs? Cobbs was the leader of the team

I don´t really remember him. But I think that Calvin can do the same. He has real good offensive qualities

In the third quarter Frankfurt took the lead. What adjustment did coach Wucherer make for the third quarter?

We made some adjustments on defense to make it more difficult for them to find scoring options and he also wanted us to play faster and bring in more of our athleticism.

The fourth quarter was a fierce battle and in the last minutes it went back and forth. Malik Parsons had the winning basket and Trey Calvin last free throws. What was key defensively in the last minute for the win?

We did a good job forcing them to more difficult shots. They seemed tired so we put more pressure on them. We gave them less good looks and on offense did a good job executing and showing our good offensive qualities.

The guards Calvin and Parsons combined for 43 points. How excited are you for this lethal guard duo to continue to produce?

We as a team will give them the freedom to create and show their offensive skills. I hope that they can continue to help us win games.

How key was it holding Mann and Yahkchali to 7/22 shooting. These are 2 guys that won games for Trier so often last season.

That was huge. They are both really skilled offensively and we as a team slowed them down.

Frankfurt hit only 3 three´s and Trier got 15 offensive rebounds. Can one say stat wise Frankfurt got a little lucky?

Lucky is difficult to say. Obviously we would have liked to hit more three´s. But at the end of the day we played harder than they did and showed we could win even when we don´t have a great offensive day.

How happy were you with the team defense? Is the team with 1 week more of training ready for BG Goettingen?

Our defense is on a good way. I think we will be able to make the next step. We still need to work on things, but it is a long season to continue to grow on defense.

Thanks Garai for the chat