Paul Larsen is a 22 year old 198cm forward that will be starting his professional basketball career in Germany with PS Karlsruhe in the Regionaliga 2. He started his basketball career at Mercer8NCAA) in 2010 where he played 57NCAA games until 2012. He then moved to USC Aiken (NCAA2) and finished his college career there and as a senior played 36 games averaging 12.4ppg, 8.8rpg, FGP: 61.7%. He reached the NCAA2 Elite 8 in 2013 and final four in 2014. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Paul thanks for talking to German Hoops. You will be starting your professional basketball career in Germany for PS Karlsruhe. How tough have the last months been not having a team?

It’s been a little tough. I’ve been practicing and teaching some of the younger guys at USC Aiken so it almost feels like I never left the team.

What do you know about the country Germany and its basketball?

I don’t know much about Germany. All I know is from what I’ve learned in history. I know the basketball draws plays from everywhere and that it’s very competitive.

Did you get some tips and information about German basketball from your friend Travis Smith that plays for Eintracht Stahnsdorf?

I haven’t talked to Travis but I’m looking forward to seeing him on the court.

You will be coming to PS Karlsruhe. Do you think there might be some nervousness for you coming into this situation and how will you overcome that?

I’m not really nervous I’m more anxious to get on the court and get used to the European style. I’ve talked to the coaches a lot which has made me really comfortable with the transition. I think putting in extra work in gym will overcome the Nervs.

How have you been keeping in shape the last months? How does a normal work out day look like for you?

Like I said I’ve been running with the USC Aiken team to help stay in shape. Normal work out for me is lifting, working on post moves and my footwork, and shooting 1000 jump shots.

On what things have you been working most on in the last months?

I’ve been working on my agility and 15ft jump shot.

You are a 198cm forward that can score and haul down rebounds. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

How I run the floor after a made basket. I always beat the defender then turn and seal so they can’t get around a long pass down the floor. I got lots of points by doing this at Aiken doing this.

How important was it moving from Mercer(NCAA) to USC Aiken for your further development? Do you feel that you would be coming to Germany now had you stayed with Mercer?

I think Aiken gave me lots of opportunities that Mercer wouldn’t have given me. Most likely no I wouldn’t be going to Germany. I would probably be at an exposure camp trying to show off my skill.

How did Vince Alexander prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Vince taught me how to be mentally tough, and to always play hard no matter how tired you are. He also had me work on scoring with both hands because my opponents were going to be just as tall and as strong as me so It wouldn’t be as easy to muscle through people.

 

You played two seasons with Langston Hall that played NBA Summer League for the Miami Heat and is playing as a rookie with Giorgio Tesi Group Pistoia (Italy-Serie A). Did you always know that he would go his way?

I knew from the beginning that Langston was going to be a pro. He is know doubt one of the best points I’ve ever played with.

It is no secret that many great players are born and bred in Ohio, but the same goes for North Carolina. Why are there so much talent coming from North Carolina? Is it something in the food?

I would say it’s because North Carolina is a basketball state. Everybody lives for basketball and many colleges in North Carolina have been really successful.

Where will the journey of the Charlotte Hornets end this season?

Hopefully in the playoffs if everyone can stay healthy.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was the new x-men movie, days of futures past. Wolverine is my idol. The man’s a beast lol.

 

Thanks Paul for the chat.

 

What nicer place is there for a professional basketball team to achieve success and happiness than in their own living room? It isnt often that a team has to play in a foreign arena near their natural place of home, but these circumstances do arrive sometimes for the good and sometimes because of schedule conflicts. More than nine years ago, the then Deutsche Bank Skyliners tried an experiment playing a game against the Telekom Baskets Bonn in the Frankfurt Festhalle which is a location that has been home to the Frankfurt marathon finish line, equestrian events, the ATP Tennis tournament or the most known music artists like Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga or Rihanna. Frankfurt lost to Bonn on that early autumn afternoon without Skyliner legend Pascal Roller and had a supporting cast of players like Dominik Bahiense De Meloo, Carlos Andrade, Mate Milisa and Malick Badiane. It isnt often that a situation occurs where the Frankfurt Skyliners have to get a temporary playing location, but since their home the Fraport arena was booked for the night, the club decided to play in the Grosspsorthalle in Ruesselsheim which would serve as a top arena in the German Pro B, but not for a Eurochallenge game. Anyway it had to do and a basketball court is a court anywhere on the planet and the Frankfurt fans had to travel the 18 kilometers to cheer on their team. The Fraport Skyliners entered the game having a walking wounded list as long the supermarket wish list of Shaq on his weekly trip to buy food and didn´t need to take a flight to Ruesselsheim, but a short bus trip as this team was like on a flight without a pilot with all the injured players. The club was without players Mike Morrison, Mikko Koivisto, Kevin Bright and all three point guards Richard Williams, Konstantin Klein and Max Merz. The only question now was how were the Fraport Skyliners going to react to this hardship against top Swedish team Boras? The Fraport Skyliners entered the game with a 1-1 record in Eurochallenge play as did Boras and the fans witnessed a hard fought battle as the game deserved no loser, but Adama Darboe put Boras in the winners circle with a buzzer beating putting them past Frankfurt 72-70. North Carolina native James Miller who is known for getting the ball in his hands at the end was for once not the hero, but proud of his team. “We had a good first half getting the lead. The second half was a game of runs and I tip my hat to Frankfurt. They made tough plays and hit tough shots. The team that had the ball last was going to win. The key was getting three stops in one possession at the end. It was good defense, but we could boxed out better”, smilied 2006 Dutch cup winner with Amsterdam James Miller. Despite the walking wounded, the Fraport Skyliners played their hearts out, but at the end weren´t rewarded with the victory. Canadian national player Aaron Doornekamp was disappointed after the game and the Ruesselsheim gym was just another court for him, but luck is something that Frankfurt hasn´t had on their side this season. “It was just a different gym as all baskets are the same. The crowd was good and this was like a home game as we slept in our beds. I never have seen so many injuries as this season, but games like these are a chance for the young guys like Johannes Richter who played great the last two Eurochallenge games. We had open three pointers at the end and could of won, but that is how basketball is sometimes and we have been having not much luck in these type of games this season”, stressed ex Braunschweig forward Aaron Doornekamp.

Boras Basket who currently are in third place of the Swedish Basketligan broke out on a fury going on a 7-0 run. Former Valpariso forward Christian Maraker who has played for 10 teams in his career hit a jumper and James “I will always have my Duke moment” Miller displayed why scoring in bunches could be his middle name as he hit a jumper and then connected on a bank shot three with two seconds remaining on the shot clock. This quick burst of Boras energy didn’t faze the Fraport Skyliners as they replied with their own 7-0 run as they had a fast flash of offense as Cincinnati native Quantez Robertson scored inside, German national player Johannes Voigtmann hit a hook shot over Maraker and Canadian Kyle Fossman got on the Boras radar with a three pointer. After 35 year Michael Palm hit a jumper, it was Voigtmann who got an untypical assist as his air ball was laid in by Danilo Barthel to dead lock the game at 9-9. However it was Boras Basket that had a tick more of efficiency on offense as they closed out the first quarter with a 9-4 run to lead 18-13. Four time Danish allstar Adama Darboe tested his Swedish 56% shooting from the parking lot hitting nothing but net and the rest of their points were courtesy of the free throw line as Samuel Haanpaa, Darboe and Maraker all connected from there. Frankfurt got buckets from Voigtmann who got a back door pass from Tez and Johannes Richter scored. “We let Boras get their rhythm to quick as we weren´t focused enough on defense. You cant let them get three easy buckets at the start. However we did a good job finding our flow”, stressed Fraport Skyliner point guard Richard Williams. Boras Basket was shooting 33% from the field and 33% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 42% from the field and 20% from outside. Both teams grabbed nine rebounds a piece, but Frankfurt had four turnovers and Boras just two turnovers.

In the second quarter Boras Basket kept the lead, but were unable to fully shake off the Fraport Skyliners as they continued to fight and scrap like a fat cat does when its on a diet and wants its daily food from its owner. Voigtmann kept his game flowing as he scored the first two Frankfurt buckets tip toeing by 35 year old Michael Palm who left Western Washington(NCAA2) in 2003 as its all time leading rebounder and third in shots blocked for the easy lay in and then connected on a bank hook shot as Boras still led 20-17. Frankfurt kept fighting, but were unable to grab the lead even if they were so close. Frankfurt got some big time production from their Pro B players as Fossman nailed a pull up jumper and ex Ludwigsburg German Stefan Ilzhoefer finished the fast break with a lay in as Frankfurt trailed Boras 24-23. Miller who has played for 14 teams in six countries did what he does best hit shots nailing his bread and butter the mid distance jumper as Boras led 26-23. Fossman then scored from the wing and Doornekamp hit a free throw as the game was even 26-26. In the last few minutes, Boras Basket heightened their game which Frankfurt couldn´t match going on a 11-4 run to go into half time leading 37-30. Miller was in his own zone and one could of plastered the word expression are you kidding me on his forehead as he hit a ridiculous three pointer from the wing from half way Frankfurt, Frederik Andersson scored inside and then Miller scored inside. Maraker then scored inside getting a back door pass from Darboe and ex Akron forward Christoper Mcknight that played with Dru Joyce and Romeo Travis at Akron could pose as his twin brother nailed an off balance jumper. Voigtmann kept Frankfurt in the game with two buckets. “We didn´t communicate well on defense at the end. We also didn´t take that good care of the ball as we had fake a pass to make a pass. We didn´t go inside as much as we could of which would of opened room for our shooters”, added San Diego native Richard Williams. Basket Boras was shooting 48% from the field and 30% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 45% from the field and only 10% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 19-14 rebound edge, but nine turnovers while Boras Basket had only four turnovers.

In the third quarter, It was Boras Basket that had their biggest lead of 10 points, but after 30 minutes the game was dead locked again as the Fraport Skyliners just wouldn´t give up. Danilo Barthel got the Fraport Skyliners on the board first with a high rainbow jumper that probably could of reached the top of the Frankfurt Messe tower cut the Boras lead to 37-32. However Boras went on a 5-0 run to lead 42-32 as Michael Palm connected on a hook shot and James Miller hit another crazy shot with Fossman in his face. After the win Miller had a big smile on his face as to how he can consistently hit tough shots. “Being able to make those shots has to do with repetition. I know that I will get many tough looks so I train in an environment that is tougher than what I will see in a game. This helps me perform better at a high level”, warned two time Swedish scoring champion James Miller. However come backs were on the menu of the Fraport Skyliners on this night as they scorched Boras Basket with a nasty 9-0 run to cut their lead to 44-41. The run was started by Aaron Doornekamp who had something to prove after seeing the goose egg in Bamberg hitting a three pointer, Voigtmann continued to be a thorn in the side of Boras connecting on consecutive mid distance jumpers and Robertson made a pull up jumper. However Frankfurt couldn´t get any closer at first as Boras Basket hit big shots to keep their lead as Haanpaa and Maraker did as Frankfurt trailed 49-43. However Frankfurt closed out the third quarter in fine fashion going on a 9-3 run to tie the game at 52-52. Frankfurt upped their intensity in this faze as Doornekamp and Barthel scored inside to tie the game at 49-49. Mckinight then hit a three pointer which was bested by Doornekamp to end the third quarter. “I hit some big shots at the end, but that doesn´t really matter as the shot that counted at the end didn´t fall for me”, stressed Aaron Doornekamp. After three quarters, Boras Basket were shooting 45% from the field and 35% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 44% from the field and only 15% from the parking lot. Boras Basket rebounded better in the third quarter as Frankfurt led the boards work only 25-24, but they had six turnovers in the third quarter and Frankfurt only one as Frankfurt had 10 turnovers and Boras Basket nine turnovers after thirty minutes.

In the fourth quarter, the game became a game as both teams shifted up three gears as there were nine lead changes. The Fraport Skyliners continued their stellar play adding on to their late third quarter run and starting the fourth quarter with a 5-0 run to extend their lead to 57-52. Richter started the run with a bank shot and Quantez Robertson drilled home a three pointer. Boras Basket put a halt into the Frankfurt run with their own 4-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 57-56 as Haanpaa connected on a jumper as did Maraker. Runs continued to dominate the fourth quarter as now Frankfurt returned to a run as Barthel scored in bunches as on the first bucket, Robertson saved a Voigtmann airball and kicked it out to the German who hit a pull up jumper and then tested his 35% shooting from outside with patent rainbow three pointer that seemed to stay in the air as long as it takes to wait in rush hour for the bus as Frankfurt led 62-58. Soon after barthel miss timed his dunk and missed, but hustled back to force a turnover. Even though Barthel picked up his game against Boras Basket, it seemed like something very spectacular has to happen for players to notice. “He is really doing the same thing that he has been doing all season long. There is nothing special, but its solid. He does many good things that you don’t see on the stat sheet. That was a good recovery missing the dunk and coming back on defense to force a turnover”, warned Aaron Doornekamp. Boras kept the pressure on and regained the lead as Miller hit another one of his amazing shots hitting a in your face against Richter and Mcknight then scored inside as Boras Basket led 63-62. Frankfurt got the lead back on a Doornekamp put back 64-63, but Miller hit free throws as Boras Basket led 65-64. The Frankfurt German big men continued to do all they could to secure the win as Voigtmann and Barthel muscled home buckets as Frankfurt led 68-65. However Boras got the lead back as Mcknight nailed a pull up jumper and Haanpaa made a free throw as Frankfurt trailed 69-68. Frankfurt got the lead back one last time as Barthel made an off balance shot for the Frankfurt 70-69 lead. Miller then made one of two free throws as the game as tied 70-70. Frankfurt had the chance to win the game, but were denied on three shots as they banged for offensive rebounds, but weren’t rewarded with a basket. With 4,3 seconds to go Boras had one last play to win the game. Apparently a siren went off during the play which made Voigtmann pause for a split second enabling Adama Darboe to hit a fade away jumper winning the game. The refs let play go on and Frankfurt will most likely apply a protest. “On the last play there was an off screen and I turned for the possible back door, but instead it was a mis direction which allowed Darboe to get the ball. He had a good look and it looked good as he released it”, said James Miller. After the game, the buzzer beater hero Adama Darboe was all smiles, but very humble in victory. “I have made a couple of buzzer beaters, but this was my biggest in my career. I wasnt even thinking if the ball looked good, but first noticed that it went in when my teammates were yelling. It was an amazing feeling”, said Adama Darboe.

Boras Basket was led by James Miller with 23 points. Samuel Haanpaa chipped in with 13 points and Christian Maraker had 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Johannes Voigtmann with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Danilo Barthel contributed 15 points and six rebounds. Quantez Robertson had 11 points, five rebounds and four assists and Aaron Dornekamp had 11 points. Boras Basket finished the game shooting 49% from the field and 36% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 22% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound duel 36-29, but had 13 turnovers while Boras had 12 turnovers. Boras moves to 2-1 and Frankfurt to 1-2 in Eurochallenge play. The Fraport Skyliners next meet the Walter Tigers Tuebingen and take one major positive into the game. “Our biggest strength was our rebounding. We were big and crashed the boards”, warned Aaron Doornekamp. Frankfurt will be looking for revenge in a few weeks in Sweden and will probably encounter a totally different Frankfurt club. “Their injuries were unfortunate, but despite the circumstances played a great game. They had guys step up that we didn´t have on the scouting report. The guys that we wanted to take their shots did, but they hit tough shots”, stressed James Miller.

James Miller is a 35 year old 182cm point guard from North Carolina that is playing his 14^th professional season and third with Boras. He started his basketball career with : N.Carolina A&T (NCAA). He has played mostly in three countries in Europe in Belgium, France and Holland, but also played in Sweden, the States and Venezuela. He has been a scorer wherever he has played and led the Swedish league the last two seasons. Last season for Boras he played 47 games: Score-1(23.7ppg), 4.2rpg, Assists-4(4.8apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 87.1%,. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurochallenge game against the Fraport Skyliners.

 

 

Thanks James for talking to German Hoops. Welcome to Germany. Is this your first time in Germany? What has been your impression of the country?

 

I have always had a very good impression of the country Germany. I never have played in their league, but played often in Germany in pre season games. Since I played in countries like Belgium and Holland, I had the chance to visit in holiday and really liked the Christmas markets.

 

You have played very much in countries like Holland and Belgium. Why haven´t you ever played for a team in Germany. Your game as a high scoring guard would have been perfect for the Beko BBL.

 

I did have interest from some teams, but it usually always came down to better offers and situations for me in Belgium or France.

 

Uppsala is number one in the Swedish standing, but Boras and a few other teams are right on their door step. Do you see the Swedish season going down to the wire with many teams having the chance to win the league title?

 

In my opinion there are four teams that will play for the Swedish title this season with Uppsala, Sodertalje, Norrkopping and us. It should be a good battle to the end of the season.

 

With what feelings did you go into the 2014 Eurochallenge competition? Your only other visit in a European basketball international competition was in 2005 with Amsterdam when you were 25. You are 35 now.

 

It has been a while since playing in the Uleb Cup with Amsterdam. I have been excited again to be able to play in an international competition where you play against the best and also have the chance to visit other countries. I like our chance in our group. IT is a competitive group, but we have chance.

 

Both the Fraport Skyliners and Boras have a 1-1 record and this will be a must win for both teams. What kind of game can we expect and what will be key to winning the game?

 

We know that this will be a tough game, because both teams are 1-1. It wont be easy winning in Germany, but we have to be prepared from the start and be focused for 40 minutes.

 

 

You were the top scorer in the Swedish league the last two seasons. Currently you are fourth top scorer. Do you think that you can defend your title again and win a third?

 

I think that it is possible, but to be honest I haven´t really focused on it the last two years when I was top scorer. In the last two season I actually noticed it in the last two weeks of the season. I think that it has been more as a by product of the team that I have been able to score so much. I never go into the season thinking about being the scoring leader.

 

 

You really can do it all as a guard, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

 

I think my defense is a hidden strength mainly because people notice my scoring. I just try to stay in front of my man and harass him as much as possible and hope for transition opportunities to result. My coaches are aware that I can defend.

 

How enjoyable has it been playing with Christopher Mcknight the last two seasons? He is 26 and still has many years ahead of him. Do you see him making the next step to the next level soon?

 

I have really enjoyed playing with Chris. I feel that he can go as high as he wants, because of his mentality. He is a very tough player and the key ingredient for him is that he wants to always get better. I think that if he continues to improve that he will be able to make the next level.

 

 

So far in your basketball career you have played in 6 countries and for 14 teams. Do you sometimes feel like you have been a basketball European globetrotter? Do you see yourself settling down now and finishing your career with Boras?

 

I definitely feel like a European globetrotter. I wouldn´t trade it for anything because I have met so many different people along the way and it has always been a great experience. I have built great relationships along the way. Boras has treated me very well and if everything fits I see no problem finishing my career with Boras.

 

Early in your career you played with Gent(Belgium) and your teammate was American John Turek who had stats of 13 and 10 that season. What memories do you have of the big man? He is still playing and this season in Poland.

Turek is a great guy that is very family orientated and we are both Christian guys and we had many bible studies in the past. On the court he was always hard nosed and that has showed as he is still playing.

 

You won your only title in Europe in 2005 with Amsterdam which was the national cup. What memories do you have from that season in general including the Uleb Cup?

 

I have great memories of that Amsterdam season as that was a great team. In the ULEB cup we won every game except one and couldn´t advance because of the point difference. In the league play we could have had a good chance of winning it, but had two key injuries near the end of the season that hurt us. One of my teammates was Teddy Gipson and he is one of the best players that I have ever played with.

 

 

When I give you the date of December 30^th, 2000 what comes into mind?

 

Yes the Duke game. My most memorable time in college.

 

North Carolina A&M lost badly to Duke 108-73, but you led all scorers with 34 points and future NBA player Shane Battier scored 31 points. What do you remember from this game. Was this the classic I am in the zone game for you?

 

Yes definitely got in the zone in that game. I remember that we found out shortly before the game that we would have to play against the number one team in the country without two of our starters. I told myself that it was time for me to take it on myself to give my team the best chance to win with my play. Duke played very aggressive and I got some baskets early which put me in an uphill direction and after that it was easy going getting baskets. Duke had many future NBA players and I remember Jason Williams and how competitive he was. He later had an accident that shortened his career.

 

 

What memories do you have from Chris Duhon in this game? You did your thing with 34 points and he dished out 13 assists. Did he come up to you after the game and say nice game Bro?

 

Yes all those future NBA players were class acts. Chris Duhon and I are good friends. I think that because both schools were only about 45 minutes away, we had a chance to cross paths.

 

 

Not only are many great basketball players born and bred in Ohio, but also in North Carolina. Is it something in the food in North Carolina that makes such great players?

 

That is a good question. I think many of the best players come from North Carolina. It is a basketball state. WE have best college schools in North Carolina and kids see at a young age what basketball there is and they just want to play. There are many leagues and kids have the chance to get better.

 

 

Where will the journey of the Charlotte Hornets end this season?

I think that they will reach the playoffs. I don´t know if they will get out of the east, but they should make the second round.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Lucy. It was a decent movie.

 

Thanks James for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chris Otule is a 24 year old 204cm forward that is starting his professional basketball career in Germany with the Crailsheim Merlins. He started his basketball career with Marquette (NCAA) in 2008 and played there until 2014 playing a total of 122 NCAA games an das a senior played 30 games: 5.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 60.2%, FT: 54.8%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball before the start of this season.

 

 

Chris thanks for talking to German Hoops. You signed in Turkey with  Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi (Turkey-TB2L) but now last second you have moved to Germany to join Crailsheim. Did somebody give you the tip that German Wiener Schnitzel is worth leaving Turkey for? Lol.

Haha no it’s just that things didn’t go according to plan. They didn’t think I’d pass the physical because I had one eye.

It is late in the summer and you got signed late. Coming from a well known school like Marquette, how was the off season team looking for you? Did you have many offers to choose from?

I had offers initially but after signing with Turkey I thought that’s where I was going I was wrong. I love Germany and Crailsheim though so it’s a blessing in disguise

Chris what do you know about the country Germany and basketball here? What are you looking most to about your new adventure in Germany?

I know the German league has good competition, not just BBL but pro A as well. Great basketball

You may only be a rookie, but with 6 years of NCAA experience and everything else, do you see yourself possibly being a leader and that defensive stopper for Crailsheim?

Not so much a leader. We already have leaders on the team and they do great by leading vocally and leading by example  I’m just going to get in where I fit in

You had many serious injuries in college, but you always stood up tall and was the ultimate warrior. What part of your body can you say has always been 100%?

Hmm. I would say my heart haha. I’ve always been breathing haha

What the normal person doesn´t know is that you have a prosthetic left eye. Does a day go by where you aren´t in some way not confronted with this issue?

It never gives me issues because I was born with one so it’s all I know. If I was born with two and lost one that’d be different

The game has never been easy, but you play it as if you have no handicap. What are the most difficult situation in a game for you where you wish you had both eyes to deal with?

Hmm. Nothing really.

A word that could be stamped on your forehead is perseverance. What has been the biggest driving force for you in your basketball career that has never let you doubt yourself that you can´t be a solid professional.

I’ve kept faith in God and I’m a big believer. It’s helped me stay sane and get through. God gets all the credit

You are a big man that can score and rebound, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

I would probably say I have quick feet when I’m not tired haha

One guy who has always believed in you was Marquette head coach Buzz Williams. What has been the most important thing that he has given you the last six years on and off the court that has made you a better player?

He always told me to take advantage of every day, never let a day pass you by where you felt like you didn’t do something to get closer to your goals  Other influences are Brad Autry and Jerry Wainwright

You interact with children nationwide dealing with similar eye ailments, relishing the chance to inspire them. What for you has been the most heart felt story of a young kid that you had to deal with?

All the stories have a huge impact in my life  that’s one of the reasons I play  to prove to people that no matter your “limitations” and I put quotes cause that word shouldn’t exist, you can do whatever you want in life

You played with future NBA players like Jimmy Butler, Lazar Hayward or Wesley Matthews. What do you remember most about your freshman year which was extremely difficult for you. The team heard about your prosthetic left eye only a after  a few months. How did they deal with it?

They are all very good guys they didn’t mind or treat me any different. Why would they

Your ex teammate Jerel Mcneal is a warrior like you only in a different sense in that he is still living the dream of playing in the NBA. He has been so close the last years. Do you see him playing a full season in the future?

He is a great guy in being and I’m rooting n supporting him and he was always fun to watch

When you look back at the last six years in the NCAA, which player was your toughest defender that you had to play against?

There were so many. A lot of guys were talented. I tried to learn something from everyone I played

You started 104 of 119 career games and ranks fourth all-time in career blocked shots at Marquette. For what would you like to be most remembered for on the court at Marquette?

Just that I played for Marquette the fans, the campus, the alumni.. the students.. I was honored to play for them

Where will the journey of the Houston Rockets end this season?

Don’t know

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Haha uh Titanic.

 

Thanks Chris for the chat.

 

 

It is always nice to see old familiar faces of the Fraport Skyliners family return back to the Fraport arena or the BCM training facility after having given their services to the club. Many years ago one could remember Jonathan Mesghina seeing action in a ULEB cup game and then he fled to the United States to further his basketball career and did something very unusual playing for four colleges in four years with Central Wyoming(JUCO), North Dakota State(JUCO), Maine(NCAA) and last but not least the university of Montana-Billings(NCAA2) where he played at the old stomping ground of ex TV Langen sniper Marcus Hallgrimsen. Mesghina has come to start his professional basketball career with the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau and is joined by another ex Skyliner faithful with experienced basketball teacher Steven Clauss who had been an assistant twice back in the early 2000´s and with Murat Didin in the 2007-2008 season where eating the Kebab Doner became a regularity with the Turkish head coach and recently coached the NBBL team of the Fraport Skyliners. Both Clauss and Mesghina were back in the BCM and were trying to get the Hanau basketball team back into winning ways after the team started 0-5 with Ty Shaw and since the coach change are 1-1. However Hanau met a very hungry Fraport Skyliners Juniors team that had won their last four games and Clauss had to do without the usual Murat Didin Kebab Doner lunch and possibly had a lunch box lunch wrapped up for him nicely to transport that extra dosage of verbal energy, but the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau didn´t need an extra burst of energy, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors could have used the Murat Didin Kebab Doner with extra meat because they were run over by the guest 74-56. After the game, Steven Clauss had a big smile on his face as the Hanau savior has led his team to two wins in his first three games and what sweeter way then to get a big win in his old living room. “I told the guys before the game that this was once my second living room. I worked here for seven years and then came back for another three years. It was great seeing many friends as well as kids I taught before. It was good to win against friends”, stated Hanau head coach Steven Clauss. Jonathan Mesghna was also all smiles after the win and he took some time to reflect on his time in Frankfurt many years ago before his four year stay in the States. “It was good to be back. I remembered every part of this gym. I spent a year working in the Skyliners office so I saw the gym every day. I was able to practice here as well and it was good for my development”, stated Jonathan Mesghna. Frankfurt had their four game winning streak snapped, but were also without their top players Max Merz and Johannes Richter. “We didn´t have enough power at the start. We didn´t defend the way we should of giving them easy rebounds and baskets. On offense we didn´t get into our sets and often the shot clock was down. When you get down by much against a good team then it is difficult to come back. We should of played calm the way we did in the last minutes”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Lennart Okeke. Hanau is slowly coming together and despite having such a talented offensive team, they want to be also known for their defense. “Defense, defense, defense was key to the win. We gave up eight points in the first quarter and that was our foundation for the win. We let up in the end, but all in all, we played very well keeping them to 56 points”, commented ex Montana-Billings(NCAA2) guard Jonathan Meshna.

Despite being without Max Merz and Johannes Richter, the Fraport Skyliners didn´t let this unlucky misfortune put a damper in their start as they stormed out on a mini 4-0 run as Stefan Ilzhoefer scored on the fast break getting a perfect feed from Kyle Fossman and Tim Oldenburg finished with a two handed dunk. For a minute it seemed like the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau were scratching their heads in disbelief, but they quickly forgot the spurt of energy that Frankfurt had started with and increased their intensity which helped their offense get going. Hanau went out on a 13-2 run to lead 13-6. Hanau was moving the ball well and just got production from four different players. German 26 year old Joleik Schaffrath gave Frankfurt an early impression that the paint wasn´t going to be their stomping ground as he got inside easy for a reverse lay up. Mesghna also did damage inside scoring as did Cardell Mcfarland while German sharp shooter Christian von Fintel tested his 22% three point shooting percentage seeing nothing but net. Schaffrath scored again inside as American Cory Copperwood found him for an easy bucket. Hanau was defending very well and had Frankfurt reeling on offense as it took them much time before they got into their sets as the shot clock was often near the end. After Canadian Kyle Fossman put a dent into the run with a pull up jumper, it was Cooperwood who played at Wright State with current Phoenix Hagen forward Todd Brown ending the first quarter with two consecutive buckets as the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau led 17-8. “We started off playing very aggressive defense that Frankfurt didn´t come to terms with. But one can´t forget that Frankfurt had some players out and they had an average age of about 20 years old. You could see early that we had advantages in many area´s”, said injured Hanau forward Tobias Jahn. The Hebeisen White Wings Hanau were shooting 62% from the field and 20% from the field while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 29% from the field and 0% from outside. Hanau had the 9-8 rebound edge and six turnovers while Frankfurt had seven turnovers.

The Hebesien White Wings Hanau didn´t let up, but kept up their intensity and their offensive flow was still there as the Fraport Skyliners were still trying to recover from their weak first quarter, but Hanau didn´t let Frankfurt get into the game going on a 9-2 run to extend their lead to 26-10. In the run, Hanau was able to continue their dominance in the paint as they scored four times. Cooperwood started the run with a tough turnaround shot in traffic, Schaffrath continued his unspectacular, but consistent play in the paint with a turnaround shot, Mcfarland scored inside and ex BG Goettingen guard Aron Donkor hit a mid distance jumper. Frankfurt had very little resistance inside as Hanau was getting inside and scoring as easily as German national goal keeper Manuel Neuer can be the teams extra defender in the back and coming out and clearing away balls. Frankfurt also had had some extra misfortune getting to well accustomed to touching the line in the corner forcing a turnover upon themselves three times. However basketball wouldn´t be basketball without the game of runs that the Fraport Skyliners were able to capitalize on going on a 8-0 run to cut the Hanau lead to 28-18. On the run, Frankfurt got needed production from Lennart Okeke and Nicolai Vukovic who connected on three pointers bringing a little momentum to the home team. However Frankfurt couldn´t sustain this momentum as Hanau showed just how explosive they can be when they are having a weak moment and scored in bunches as ex Nordlingen top scorer from last season Cardell Mcfarland who played with ex medi Bayreuth forward Kyle Weems at Missouri State hit a in your face three jumper against German Jamin Knothe and Cooperwood hit a jumper. Mcfarland hit free throws and Fossmann ended the second quarter with a bomb from outside, but Hanau led 35-21. “We did a good job getting the ball inside even more in the second quarter. We were able to undercover many weak spots in the game of Frankfurt in the second quarter”, stressed Tobias Jahn who played three seasons with current Phoenix Hagen forward Larry Gordon at Cal Poly Pomona(NCAA). The Hebeisen White Wings Hanau were shooting 60% from the field and 25% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 32% from the field and 25% from the three point line. Hanau had the 18-14 rebound advantage and 11 turnovers while Frankfurt had 15 turnovers.

In the third quarter, the Hebeisen White Wings came out of the locker room and kept up their dominance extending their lead even more winning the quarter with 25-12. Hanau was the run king of the afternoon as they went on another crushing run of 11-2 to extend their lead to 46-23 as Frankfurt continued to be able to muster very little on offense. Schaffrath continued to be a nasty thorn in the side of Frankfurt as he could do what he pleased inside as no defender was able to match his intensity or aggressiveness. He scored three buckets in the run including two inside and one on the transition as American Cardell Mcfarland got the dime. After a Tim Oldenburg mid distance jumper, Hanau went on their next devastating run of 10-2 to further up their commanding lead to 56-27 as the win was as good as sealed here. Hanau continued to play superb inside out team basketball as their offense was just in the flow. Mesghna nailed a three pointer and Cooperwood scored on the fast break. Schaffrath scored two more times inside as there was no Skyliner on this day that was able to rudely kick him out of the zone. In the last minute, Frankfurt got some added production from Fossman and Armin Musovic in form of jumpers, but Hanau led very comfortably with 60-33. “Coach Clauss told us at halftime to keep the focus up that not get overconfident. We didn´t want to let the game get tight again so we continued to let the ball flow, hit our open shots and our big man got points inside”, added Hanau guard Jonathan Mesghna. The Hebeisen White Wings were shooting 61% from the field and 31% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 31% from the field and 21% from the parking lot. Hanau had the overwhelming 32-17 rebound edge and 14 turnovers while Frankfurt had 17 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter the game stayed even, but on account of the gigantic Hanau lead, Frankfurt was unable to make any serious ground despite a run at the start and at the end. When Frankfurt did make that run to end the game with a 12-0 run it was too little to late. Skyliner forward Tim Oldenburg started off the fourth quarter with perhaps the prettiest basket with a quick spin move that made Cory Cooperwood look like a lost farmer in Arkansas that had forgotten what field his crop was on as that was the start of a Frankfurt 9-3 run. Frankfurt played some high spirited basketball in this run getting out on the break something they hadn´t really been able to do earlier in the game. Fossman continued the run with a three pointer and then also scored on the fast break as did Oldenburg as Hanau still led 63-42. After Sebastian Kohnert and Fossman traded buckets, Hanau did their last damage of the evening going on an 8-0 run to extend their lead to 74-44 as Kohnert connected again on a jumper and Cooperwood and ex Nordlingen center Josef Eichler who played 17 Beko BBL games hit three pointers. The Fraport Skyliners ended the game in strong fashion with a 12-0 run as Hanau walked off the court with a 74-56 win. In the run everything worked for Frankfurt while Hanau might already have been thinking if they were going to get to the sports bar in time to check out the German Bundesliga game of the night at 18:30. Oldenburg led the Frankfurt 12-0 run with three buckets as he was twice served with perfect passes on a silver platter from 17 year old 2014 NBBL rookie of the year Niklas Kiel. Vukovic also dropped a pull up jumper and Jamin Knothe hit a three pointer to end the game. “We have to know that we can always play the way we did at the end even if a Merz or Richter aren´t playing. We lost today, because we weren´t ready at the start. This loss reminded me off the loss in Iserlohn, because we weren´t there mentally. Maybe we weren´t focused the way we should of seeing the opponent having the bad record. We have to learn to react when we aren´t playing well. We need to learn from these mistakes and play better next weekend”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Niklas Kiel. The Hebeisen White Wings Hanau were led by American Cory Cooperwood with 18 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Joleik Schaffrath contributed 17 points and nine rebounds while Cardell Mcfarland had 14 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Tim Oldenburg with 17 points while Kyle Fossman steered 12 points. Hanau shot 54% from the field and 35% from outside while Frankfurt shot 39% from the field and 28% from outside. Hanau destroyed Frankfurt on the boards 41-29, but had 19 turnovers while Frankfurt had 18 turnovers. Hanau head coach Steven Clauss likes what he has seen from his team since he has arrived and sees their direction going up up up. “We are finding our way slowly. The team is slowly finding their self confidence something they didn´t have in the first five games. Our goal is going to the playoffs. We have to take it week by week and get wins and always play a little better each week”, warned Hanau head coach Steven Clauss.

 

Robert Gilchrist is a 24 year old 206cm forward from London, England that is playing his first professional season with BG Karlsruhe. He started his professional basketball career in 2008 for the London Leopards (EBL). H ethen played at Polk Community College before moving to Florida St. (NCAA) in 2012 where he played two seasons and as a senior he played 34 games: 3.0ppg, 1.8rpg. He spoke to German Hoops after the 86-82 victory in Langen.

 

Congrats on the 86-82 win against TV Langen. It isn´t usual that one can´t enjoy a win as much when there were other factors that happened on the court, but was this a victory where your thoughts were more with teammate Paul Brotherson than the game result after?

Most definitely found that my thoughts as well as those of the rest of the team were more so with Paul as well as securing a road win.

 

BG Karlsruhe was totally in the flow had scored 31 points in the first quarter and then suddenly that cheap shot from TV Langen Filmore Beck. Could you please describe the scene and what happened from your perspective?

Before I got into the game I could see that he was frustrated. Not sure why but I could see him getting a little more physical. A few plays before that incident I had to get between him and Paul but I thought that would be the end of it. For me it was frustrating just because my natural reaction would be to retaliate but of course that would just add fuel to the fire. He did it out of frustration and surely something else must have been bothering him. I have thrown some elbows or stuck out a knee on a screen but never been mad enough to hit someone knowing you could throw your career away

 

According to eye witness reports the blow must have been very bad? Have you ever seen something like that in your time as a player or to what scenario could you compare it to?

I think the league will handle the situation appropriately and we will continue to play with class and respect for the game. I have never seen anything like that in person in Langen. I have seen a few college basketball fights but never been in that situation

 

 

Does Filmore Beck deserve to be suspended or even banned from playing anymore games this season? What kind of punishment does this deserve from your point of view?

I don’t think its my place to say what he deserves but i know the league will deal with it as they feel appropriate

 

 

BG Karlsruhe still had the lead at halftime with 48-39. How difficult was it to concentrate on the court after what had happened to Brotherson? I expect the team was playing for him?

There Is no question that we continued to play for Paul. Yes it was difficult to concentrate but we have pretty good chemistry and banded to play the game with class and not try to continue or start anymore problems

 

TV Langen big man Martinis Woody cut the bG Karlsruhe lead to 84-82 with 19 seconds to play and Aaron Schmitz sealed the win with free throws. How proud were you of the team and what was key to sticking it out and getting the win?

 

We were able to sustain a good defensive game and the results show that

 

What was it like banging with TV Langen scorer Martinis Woody? He was held to 12 points which is considered a solid effort against him.

Woody is a solid player and he did what he could on the night

 

How much will Paul Bortherson be missed on the team? What is his biggest quality on the court for the team?

 

Paul will definitely be missed, he has a great IQ and feel for the game. He makes plays on both ends of the floor everyone is going to have to step up!

 

 

After starting the season 2-3, BG Karlsruhe has a 3-0 record now. Is BG Karlsruhe finally putting the pieces together?

 

I think we are finding our way now, we are a young team. Our coaches have taken the time and have been patient with us and I think we will continue to grow and make solid progress throughout the season.

 

 

BG Karlsruhe easily defeated Hanau earlier in the season 75-54 and they also seem to be making strides. I think both BG Karlsruhe and Hanau could be teams that are way at the top of the standings when both teams fully find their rhythm. Why do you think it has taken these two very ambitious teams that want to move up to the Pro A so long to get started?

 

Sometimes teams with a lot of potential take a little longer to get going but once they do they are quite the force rolling into the back end of the season where it counts the most

 

 

 

You are a rookie and are averaging 5,6ppg, 6,6rpg and 1,4bpg in 16 minutes. How happy have you been with your play so much?

As you said, I am a rookie and I’m still finding my way, coach took a chance and he knows I will do whatever I can to help the team get the win. I want and need to improve my game in every area. For me right now I need to find consistency!

 

 

Who wins a one on one in practice on the court you or Adrian Lind?

 

lol I’m pretty sure a one on one with Adrian Lind would be easy money. I would much rather play jimmy but he’s always running from this pressure!! you can tell jimmy to stop running from this pressure when you speak to him

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The last DVD movie that I saw was Think Like a man too with Kevin Hart.

 

Thanks Robert for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There was a time when the Frankfurt Skyliners were involved with international club play year in and year out and even if the majority of the fans stayed clear of the arena as they had better things to do during the middle of the week, but for the fans that made the trek to Hochst to watch high class basketball, they were entertained by high class players like Gerrod Henderson, ex NBA player Shammond Willimas, ex NBA player Daniel Ewing, ex NBA player Tyus Edny or Scoonie Penn. However in the last three years, the Fraport arena has been closed for middle of the week basketball and as dark and lifeless as the Frankfurt airport during the wee hours of the morning. The last time that the Fraport Skyliners could register a win in international play was almost four years ago three days before Christmas against Khimik Moscow as Gordon Herbert was coach and Frankfurt was led by Dashaun Wood with 18 points, Marius Nolte started the game registering four points and two rebounds in 12 minutes battle, American Joe Dabbert played 25 minutes and Frankfurt legend Pascal Roller was held scoreless in 17 minutes. Since then the club is riding a seven game losing streak in the international club play. Back in the 2011-2012 season, they lost six times in Eurocup against teams like Banvit(turkey), Lokomotiv(Russia) and Gran Canaria. Only two players from the roster of today with Quantez Robertson and Danilo Barthel found action in those games. In their first game this season in the Eurochallenge play, they were embarrassed 94-59 in Aalstar, Belgium as a one time little used Phoenix Hagen player from Belgium Thomas Dreeson led all scorers with 22 points, but one has to understand that they were hurt much by injuries. This wasn´t any different today as the Fraport Skyliners had to battle Bakken of Denmark and had to withstand a tough Danish squad that fought until the end, but the 2004 Beko BBL champion had a strong fourth quarter mustering a 74-64 victory winning their first game in the Eurochallenge. It was an unlikely hero who stepped up when he had to as it wasn´t Cinderella, but just young 20 year old German Johannes Richter who shone in the spotlight before midnight leading Frankfurt with 15 points and six rebounds. After the victory five journalists were crowded around the ex Bamberg center as guys like Quantez Robertson, Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtman slithered past the big man unnoticed as they were not on the question menu. Richter was all smiles after the win and reminded the journalists that he is a normal guy that tomorrow morning has class at university at 9AM. “I came into the game playing with pain and it wasn´t easy. I was hoping that I would get some minutes, but the Barthel and Voigtman foul problems gave me extra minutes. I thank coach for giving me the confidence and I am happy that I could pay him back with good play. I have to also give thanks to Tez and Richie Williams for finding me and letting me finish and get into the game. I have much confidence from the Pro B games and practice, but in reality basketball is the same everywhere, so this game for me is nothing special”, remarked Johannes Richter. “This wasn´t Cinderella, but something that Richter is capable of doing. I am so happy for him that he could give us this performance when we needed it badly. He has a real fighting heart which is his best quality”, warned assistant coach Eric Detlef. It was the second win in a row for the Fraport Skyliners and a real team effort as Bakken didn´t give any presents for 40 minutes. “Baken really did a great job making it hard for us to get into our sets. However we did the little things and hustle plays in the second half which we didn´t do in the first half. Richter played great, Kyle Fossmann hit crucial three pointers and Sean Armand warmed up in the fourth quarter helping us get the lead, “warned RichardWilliams. Bakken lost their second game and just couldn´t sustain the Frankfurt offense in the last quarter. “Frankfurt didn´t give us any second chance shots and just played overall good defense. That whole team was on the same page on defense”, stressed Illinois native Maurice Acker.

The Fraport Skyliners got going quickly in the first quarter going on a 6-3 lead as the Skyliners German duo of Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann scored in the paint. Quantez Robertson got into his comfort zone quickly on defense getting a quick steal and going coast to coast for the lay in. After a Acker bucket, the Fraport Skyliners continued to run their well oiled offense cruising out on a 10-2 run to lead 16-7 as Canadian Aaron “Mr 7am practice man” Doornekamp nailed two three pointers, Armand split the defense for a bucket and Richter made his first presence muscling for an offensive rebound and put back. Frankfurt kept their momentum and just got support from everyone from the bench as Richter made a stuff and Canadian Kyle Fossmann dropped a three pointer. Williams found his shooting touch early as he displayed his fancy foot work doing a cross over and drillied home a jumper. Bakken forward Nicolai Pederson ended the first quarter with a bomb from down town as Frankfurt had the comfortable 23-15 advantage after 10 minutes. “Frankfurt did a good job showing their presence on defense which led to some fast break points. Frankfurt demonstrated good team basketball and Doornekamp hit some big three pointers”, stressed Italian basketball agent Luigi Battista. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 66% from the field and 75% from outside while the Bakken Bears were shooting 50% from the field and 33% from outside. Both teams had six rebounds a piece and Frankfurt had six turnovers and Bakken had seven turnovers.

The second frame was a tale of two quarters as the Fraport Skyliners kept up their intensity and lead in the first five minutes, but then let up drastically letting the Bakken Bears back into the game and handing over the lead at the end going into halftime. Quantez Robertson started the second quarter hitting an open pull up jumper, but Bakken came back in a fury and used their inside presence getting two quick buckets. 35 year old Chris Christoffersen who played at Oregon(NCAA) form 1998-2002 and played three seasons with ex Giessen 46er fan favorite Florian Hartenstein made a quick lay in and Jonas Bergstedt followed with a lay in as these two big men harmonized well. Frankfurt made a rapid halt to this run as Quantez Robertson buried a three pointer and Williams connected on a floater as Frankfurt had a double digit lead again at 30-20. However Bakken now got stronger and finished the second quarter on a 18-6 run to sneak into halftime with the 37-36 lead. Cristoffersen did damage again inside as his huge body was like a big mack truck as nobody was going to stand in his way as he scored inside again. Doornekamp had one highlight in the Bakken run finding daylight from the wing and smashing home a one hand dunk. However Morten Sahlertz right away silenced the Fraport arena nailing back to back three pointers as Bakken was inching its way back into the game and trailed only 37-31. Bakken continued to come back and reach the free throw line. 23 year old forward Thomas Laerke ended the second quarter with a three pointer as Frankfurt´s once big lead had dwindled like an ice cube that is left out to melt on a hot sunny day. “Bakken did all the same things which Frankfurt didn´t do. Frankfurt turned away from their team basketball from the first quarter. Frankfurt defended less and were less aggressive on the boards while Bakken tried to finish more inside”, added Italian basketball agent Luigi Battista. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 42% from the field and 35% from the three point line while the Bakken Bears were shooting 48% from the field and 41% from the three point line. Bakken had the slim 18-17 rebound edge, but 11 turnovers while Frankfurt had only nine turnovers.

Both teams took a rest from scoring in the third quarter as more aggressive defense and sloppy play reigned on the field and there were an impressive 10 lead changes which showed that both teams were willing to fight extra for the win. Armand got Frankfurt the lead back at 39-38 with a lay in. Bakken then retrieved the lead back as Bergstedt nailed free throws and Bakken led 40-39. No team was able to hurry off on a run as the lead changes just went back and forth. Williams then made an amazing play with 0,6 seconds left on the shot clock, he somehow pushed the pass in traffic to Richter who somehow got off the shot and scored as Frankfurt fetched their lead back to 41-40. Thomas Laerke then responded with the 42-41 Bakken lead with a tough off balance shot. Voigtmann then connected on free throws as once again the lead changed and Frankfurt led 43-42. Bergstedt and Robertson then traded buckets as Frankfurt led 45-44. Bakken American Semaj Inge who played at Temple with NBA player Lavoy Allen and ex Fraport Skyliner Ryan Brooks and current Giessen 46er TJ Dileo hit a difficult off balance shot as Bakken led once again 46-45. Voigtmann then made his prettiest basket of the evening making a nasty spin move around Bergsetdt and laying the ball in as Frankfurt led again 47-46. After Bergstedt and Williams free throws, it was Acker who nailed a ridiculous in your face three pointer over Barthel as Bakken led 52-49 after 30 minutes. “No team was able to get a run. This quarter was a combination of good defense and sloppy play. We missed mayn easy lay ups, but you have those days sometimes”, stressed San Diego native Richard Williams. “Both teams played excellent defense and it was tough to score and get into rhythm”, added Maurice Acker. The Bakken Bears were shooting 44% from the field and 37% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 38% from the field and 27% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 28-23 rebound advantage, but 15 turnovers while Bakken had 14 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners left the sloppiness of the third quarter behind them and found back to their old ways of sound structured offense that is flowing like it was in the first quarter. Frankfurt didn´t waste any time sprinting out on a 15-5 run to lead 64-57. The Fraport Skyliners got their run started after Iverson had scored inside with a very peculiar play where they definitely had some luck as Williams tried to throw the ball off a Bakken defender to get a new possession, but instead the ball deflected right to Richter who had the easiest put back of his life. American Sean Armand and Canadian Kyle Fossman now combined for 10 points as each nailed a three pointer and scored a field goal which was the beginning of the end for Bakken and Armand ended the run with another jumper as he saved his best for the fourth quarter. “I hurt my wrist in the last game and I had swollen hand, but I still played. With my shot not falling early, I just tried to get my team involved and play good defense”, said Sean Armand. After a Bergstedt two handed slam dunk, it was Armand showing his unselfishness even when he is scoring to go down a gear and let somebody else score riffling a pass inside to Richter who had no deadline to midnight, but just made a routine put back as Frankfurt led 66-59. Frankfurt did a good job not leaving the door open in crunch time and just buckling down and getting the win. Armand and Richter closed out the scoring as the Fraport Skyliners left the floor with a 1-1 record in Eurochallenge play. “I thought that we played the way we wanted to and dictated the game. We did a good job controlling the offensive boards something we have had problems doing this season and executed on second chance points. When we do those things good things happen. This win gave us more confidence and momentum going into the next tough game in Bamberg”, warned Sean Armand. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Johannes Richter and Sean Armand with 15 points a piece. Quantez Robertson contributed nine points and eight rebounds. Richard Williams had eight points and nine assists. The Bakken Bears were led by Jonas Bergstedt with 23 points. Maurice Acker added 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners finished the evening shooting 43% from the field and 33% from outside while the Bakken Bears shot 39% from the field and 26% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebounding duel 41-32 and had 18 turnovers while Bakken had 19 turnovers. The Fraport Skyliners next play on Sunday November 16^th in Bamberg.

Maurice Acker is a 27 year old 176cm point guard that was born in Kansas City, Kansas, but grew up in Hazelcrest, Illinois and is playing his first season for the Bakken Bears (Denmark-Ligaen). He started his basketball career in 2005 at Ball St and then moved on to Marquette (NCAA) where he played from 2007-2010 and as a senior played 34 games: 8.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 49.5%, FT: 72.7%. Concluded the season season ranked second in the nation and first in the BIG EAST in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.1). Led the BIG EAST in 3-point field goal percentage (.495). He started his basketball career in 2011 with Bucaneros de La Guaira (Venezuela-LPB): (Elimination Round) 15 games: 8.2ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, 2PT: 40.0%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 92.0%. In 2011 he also played for Quebec Kebs (Canada-PBL): 18 games: 8.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 80.0%. In the 2011-2012 season he moved to Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 31 games: 14.0ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-3(4.1apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 79.3%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Trefl Sopot (Poland-TBL, starting five): 4 games: 10.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, then signed at BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five): 37 games: Score-1(23.9ppg), 2.5rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 84.4%. Last season he played for Denain ASC Voltaire (France-ProB, starting five): 42 games: Score-4(17.0ppg), 2.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 88.8%. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurochallenge game against the Fraport Skyliners.

 

Thanks Maurice for talking to German Hoops. Is this your first time in Germany? What do you know about the country?

Before coming to Frankfurt yesterday, I once flew in to Berlin, but that has been about it. I know that basketball is huge in Germany and is respected in Europe. I have also heard that the BBL is one of the top leagues in Europe and that it is a good environment to play in.

 

 

You are playing your first season for Bakken Bears (Denmark-Ligaen). Your also playing your second international club game. You lost to Boras 86-79 and you chipped in with 16 points. How did it feel playing this type of basketball?

It was exciting to play my first international game against Boras. The result wasn´t to my liking, but I believe that we got better and will be ready for Frankfurt tonight.

 

 

You are playing in your fifth professional season, but for your seventh team. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter?

Yes I do feel sort of like a basketball globetrotter because I have been around. I enjoy this life style and have gotten used to the travel, learning new cultures and teams. It is part of the game.

 

You are playing your first season in Denmark for Bakken who are number one in the Danish league. You have been a scorer almost your whole professional career. What is exactly your role with Bakken?

My role is to do pretty much what I have been doing my whole career is first off getting my team involved and later if necessary do the scoring to help my team win.

 

You played in many countries like Canada, Venezuela, Holland,Poland, Slovakia and France. How difficult is it to get used to a new style and level?

 

It isn´t always easy to adapt to a new level and style and it can be frustrating, but at end of day it is part of game and you always find a way to adjust.

 

 

You are a scoring point guard, but can also set up your teammates as two seasons ago you led the league in Slovakia with 6,7apg. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away? Perhaps your assist to turn over ratio?

I think a hidden strength is getting my team involved. I feel that I get more credit for being able to score. I usually try to get my team involved early and later do what is needed to win the game with scoring.

 

You are a 176cm guard. Which smaller type NBA player was always your role model growing up as a kid?

As a kid, I really enjoyed watching Allen Iverson play. I liked how he didn´t back down against nobody even if they were bigger. He always played with a chip on his shoulder and I liked that.

 

You started your basketball career at Ball St and as a freshman played 28 games: 9.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.6apg, 1.5spg, FG: 32.6%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 79.6%. You then sat out due to NCAA transfer rules and finished at Marquette from 2007-2010. How difficult was this season not being able to play?

Sitting out my second year at Marquette was the most difficult time in my career. Just being at practice, but not playing games was tough. I got better in this year and I learned a lot from my teammate Dominic James. I did many extra work outs to get better. In the end it was tough, but worth it.

 

You played 102 NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games: 8.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 49.5%, FT: 72.7%. Concluded the season season ranked second in the nation and first in the BIG EAST in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.1). Led the BIG EAST in 3-point field goal percentage (.495). How did Buzz Williams get you prepared best for a professional basketball career?

 

He really did a lot for me. His practices were always very hard and pushed the players. He was big on team basketball and wanted us to be leaders and that we should help each other. Coach Williams was also big on life issues which I feel has helped me adapt to life better in Europe.

You played together with many future NBA players like Lazar Hayward, Wesley Matthews, Jerel Mcneil, Jimmy Butler or Dwight Buycks. Why do you think wasn´t Marquette able to make more noise in the NCAA tournament in those years?

I think that in the years that I was there that the level was so much higher in the NCAA than now. There were many good players that went through the NBA draft.

 

You played with many great players at Marquette that went to the NBA. Which player left the most lasting impact on you?

 

Wesley Matthews left the biggest impact on me. He was a player that really didn´t get as much exposure as he should of. I will never forget his work ethic which was unbelievable. A reason he got to the NBA is because he outworked everyone else. I tried to take as much as I could from his game.

 

 

 

You also played with Chris Otule who only has vision in one eye. How did you take that whole experience with him at Marquette and what was your fondest memory with him in school and on the court?

Chris was one of the most genuine guys ever. He was always happy and in a good mood. He worked so hard on the court and you would never have thought that he only had vision in one eye. He was so smart and picked up different traits that helped him work around his disability on the court. He was a tough inside presence as hardly any one could stop him. He was one of the toughest players that I ever played with.

 

You came to Europe in 2011 and played for Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie). What was your welcome to Europe experience in terms of basketball in Holland?

Just being away from home and being so far away in a different country. Off the court toughest was having to know words and phrases just to be able to buy groceries and on the court all the different systems. I recognized quickly that the game is more structured in Europe.

 

 

Two seasons ago you played briefly for Trefl Sopot (Poland-TBL)4 games: 10.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, What memories do you have of German/polish talent David Bremblay?

I remember David as a very good shooter and play very hard on defense. He was a good kid.

 

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Semaj Inge?

We play almost every day and it goes back and forth.

 

 

Who was the best player that you had to defend in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

 

The best player that I played against was Kemba Walker. I played him a few times. One game I played ok scoring something like eight points and another time had 16 points and five assists.

 

 

Where will the journey of the Chicago Bulls end this season?

 

They will have a good season if they stay healthy.

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Friday.

 

Thanks Maurice for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Janek Schmidkunz is a 24 year old 183cm point guard that is playing his first season for the MLP Academics Heidelberg (ProA). He started his basketball career with Central Hoops Berlin (Regionalliga) in 2008. He then also got further experience at ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga). He then went to the states and played at Amer.Internat. (NCAA2) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 86 NCAA games and as a senior played 26 games: 10.9ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 61.5%. He spoke to German Hoops recently before the start of the season.

Janek thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

Right now I am in Berlin, my hometown, being with my family and friends. Its been a great summer so far. The transition from living four years on the east coast and now starting off a new chapter in my life has been hard but extremely exciting as well. Besides enjoying my time spent in the gym, weight room and running, I also make sure to catch up with first my family, but also my friends. Overall, I am happy to be back home in Germany.

You have been away in the United States for four years playing at Amer.Internat. (NCAA2) Now you are coming back to Germany to start your professional basketball career? Did time fly in your college experience?

First off, I can’t believe how fast time has gone by and I already know that I am gonna miss going back to AIC’s campus and get ready to work my butt off in pre season and seeing my friends. But I knew early on that my path will head back to Germany and therefore, I was somewhat prepared for the transition.

What were the main reasons for coming to the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What sold you on coming to this Pro A team?

What sold me was several reasons. For one, Heidelberg has such tradition as a basketball organization and it’s an established brand in Germany. I am confident that I will take my game to the next level under Coach Ignjatovic and his staff and I am grateful to be given this opportunity. Also, I fell in love with the city when I first visited in June and the addition of the perfect training and practice environment made the decision easy. It is for a reason that it is one of Germany’s Olympic bases. Last but not least I am rejoining a very good friend of mine, Nico Adamczak. I played with Nico for the first time when I was 11 or 12 and from then on we became close friends and continued playing for Berlins select team. It makes the transition much easier having Nico as a teammate once again.

When you came to the States you had just played for ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga) playing 17 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 1.9apg, 1.5rpg. There your coach was NCAA champion Henrik Rodl and your teammate was future NCAA winner Niels Giffey. How has your game developed in the last four years in the States?

I have been able to improve as an overall player and because my coach, Art Luptowski, was a very defensive minded coach I made lots of improvements in that regard. Through lots of individual workouts I got better in shooting off the dribble and ball handling. Would one say that you are more a point guard or combo guard? When looking at your stats, one doesn´t notice very high assist stats? I definitely define myself as a combo guard. It makes me flexible in terms of where coach can put me and use me on the court. My assists have been down, but it’s definitely an aspect of my game I am trying to utilize more.

You shot over 40% from outside twice in your college career and if you were to describe that one quality in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away what would you say it is?

A trait in your game that goes unnoticed? Besides my low turnover ratio in the past years I think that my team player skills are not noticeable when looking at the stats. I am trying to keep my errors low but still take smart risks on the court. I think my feeling and understanding of the game is something my past coaches have always valued me for.

If you look back at your season with Niels Giffey at Alba Berlin(Reg) would you ever have thought that he would have developed so well in the NCAA?

Not all German players have had luck with their careers in the States. I would say I knew that he was going do well. Not saying I knew he was going win two championships but I knew that he would be valued highly as a ball player. Playing with Niels was amazing but playing against Niels (three times with AIC vs UConn) was rough. He shined a lot in his senior year but I thought he was a vital part for UConn all four years. It’s true that not all German players succeed in the states, but then not all German players are as gifted and passionate about the game as Niels. The guy worked hard and he got what he deserved.

How did Artur Luptowski help shape your game and made you into the player that you are now ready to attack the pro game? What was the most important thing he has given you on and off the court?

First, coach Luptowski shaped me a lot mentally. He made me “tougher”. I mentioned some aspects above but when trying to summarize his impact two things come to mind: defense and mental toughness. He trusted me on the court and thought of me as a leader of our team. Besides all the basketball, I had a good relationship with coach and he helped me through a lot of hard personal times and was always there for us players. I am grateful for that and happy that he made it to the next level now working as a head scout with the Detroit Pistons. Congrats to him at this point again.

Your ex teammate Bobby Harris had a very solid senior season. How did you guys make each other better on and off the court?

Bobby was a tough matchup in practice and for the opponent teams. It was tough that we had to play without him for the last few games. But with his transfer to AIC, I had another guy in practice that made me better and another teammate that helped us win games. But I don’t want to highlight one teammate, I had one of the best teammates in the world the past four years and I am sad that so few continued on playing. I miss those guys a lot. Bobby still has another year by the way and I am going follow them closely.

In your four years living in Springfield how often would you say did you visit the basketball Hall Of fame and what is your favorite exhibit to see in the Hall of Fame?

Three times to be exact. Sad thing was that it took me two years to realize how amazing it is that I played and lived in the city where basketball was created. The best exhibit was the historic part of the hall of fame, basketball’s first steps and the development of what is now one of the worlds most popular sports. It’s a must see museum for anyone that is in the area.

How does a normal Janek Schmidkunz work out day look like in the summer on and off the court?

I get up early, always! First workout is the lifting after a good breakfast. I added Pilates as a workout this year and it has been helpful. In the afternoon I hit the gym and work on my basketball skills. Every other day I go for a run or swim to improve my cardio. I am a big fan of doing other sports in the summer (tennis, beach volleyball or some soccer) because I think it is important to be diverse and try different things. Off the court, I am a big family guy. Spending time with them is the best. Seeing friends is a must for me as well, especially knowing that I am leaving town so soon.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

I watched “the life of David Gale” and it was a good flick. I am a huge Kevin Spacey fan.

 

Thanks Janek for the chat.