Loren Stokes is a 29 year old 190cm guard from Buffalo, New York that is in his sith professional season. He played at Hofstra from 2003-2007 and in his senior year played 32 games: 20.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 67.8%; Finished career as second-leading scorer in Hofstra history with 2,148 points. In 2007-2008, he turned professional and played for In Oct.’07 signed at Aspis Apoel Nicosia (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): FIBA EuroCup: 2 games: 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 64.7%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 70.6%; 9 games: 14.7ppg, 4.6rpg, released in Dec.’07, in Jan.’08 moved to Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-D1, starting five): 19 games: 11.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 23.0%, FT: 72.0%. In 2008-2009, he played for Aget Imola (Italy-Lega2, starting five), injured at the beginning of the season and was off for 2 months, in Feb.’09 signed at BS Odessa (Ukraine-UBL): 1 game: 6pts, 2reb, 1steal, released the same month. In 2009-2010, he played for : Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-D1, starting five), injured in Oct.’09: 24 games: 11.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-1(2.3spg), FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 13.8%, FT: 67.0%. He played the last two season for  Erie Bay Hawks and last season played 15 games: 6.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.8%, FT: 61.5%. He spoke to German English about basketball.

You had a try out with German team Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg the last days. What kind of an experience was that for you?

It was a good experience. I got to show case my talent and show people that I’m still the same player I been since I have been overseas in the past two seasons.

The player market continues to be very difficult to crack this season. You are still looking for a team. Why do you think the market has been so tough this season?

Yes I’m still looking for a team. I believe the market has been very hard to crack this season because its a lot of good talent out there.

John Patrick was looking for a point guard and not a scorer. You are a patient player and possess solid point guard skills. Are you a bit disappointed that your point guard skills weren´t as noticed during your try-out?

I am a little disappointed but I have to move on all I can do is go out there and display my abilities. I talked with the coach for a little after the final practice and he told me I showed him something’s he didn’t know I was able to do and he thinks I can definitely play at this level. They were just looking for something different.

John Patrick is a very intense coach. What could you learn from him in your short stay in Ludwigsburg?

Just to leave it all out there from day one. My college coach Tom Pecora was intense so I was use to it.

The team recently added Marquis Blakley. What was your impression of him and how will he help the team most?

Well I knew Marquis Blakely from the NBA D-league. He can help the team in a lot of different ways like blocking shots rebounding and scoring. He is very athletic.

If Lucca Staiger was parked in the corner and had a blindfold on, how many could he hit form 10 tries? Lol

LOL. He could probably hit 5 or 6 he is a very good shooter.

It is known that you are a scoring guard, but what is a strength in your game that doesn´t gte noticed right away?

Ill have to say my assist. And my ability to get other players open shots and involved in the game. I don’t force my shots I know I get them because I can create for myself.

If you could describe yourself, what are your most important qualities as a player that would help any team right now?

I can help a team on both ends of the floor I play great on the defensive end, I also rebound the ball pretty well from the guard positions. I can also open up the floor on the offensive end with my  ability to penetrate the defense.

You played together with NBA player DJ Kennedy last season in the D-league with Erie. What was the most amazing thing that you saw him display on the court?

DJ was a good player the guy could do everything rebound pass and score he was very talented.

You played together at Hofstra(NCAA) with American Chris Gadley who is playing in Germany with Leipzig. What is your fondest memory of him?

LOL Chris Gadley had so many it’s really hard to pick one. But I’ll have to say when he called me from open gym saying the guys on the team was picking with him. It was his freshmen year. I was at home due to a death in my family.

Have you just been eating at Mcdonalds or did you pick up on some tasty German food?

I have been eating a lot of pasta.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I saw was training Day. Denzel Washington.

Thanks for the chat Loren.

Alejo Rodriguez is a 24 year old 203cm forward from the Bronx, New York. He played at Iona(NCAA) from 2006-2011 playing a total of 119 NCAA games. In his senior year he played 36 games: 6.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.0apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 69.9%, FT: 53.8%. Last season as a rookie, he played for the  Springfield Armor (D-League): 7 games: 0.7ppg, 2.6rpg, left in Jan.’12, then joined Oviedo Club Baloncesto (Spain-LEB Silver): 5 games: 3.2ppg, 5.6rpg. He spoke to German Hoops after the 73-64 loss against the Fraport Skyliners juniors.

What was your impression of playing in the BCM gym of the Fraport Skyliners? NBA players like Alan Anderson and Carlos Arroyo have played here before.

Oh really I had no idea that those guys had played here. I had a very good impression here. I love our fan support very much. It seemed like we had more fans than Frankfurt did. We have very diehard fans and I really appreciate their support in every game.

The Dragons Rhondorf only have two Americans, but still are the best team in the PRO B south. What makes the team so potent?

I think that we have shown all season long that the team doesn´t only depend on the two Americans. The team depends on everyone. We have a very good starting five where each German gives much support. Our bench is also very good. Each guy understands their role and always step up in each game.

Did you feel added pressure in the game, because four guys were out on account of the flu?

Obviously we were missing guys, actually it was five so it did feel a lot different with our limited rotation. We had problems with fouls and our limited bench did hurt us. This did benefit Frankfurt down the stretch.

You fouled out in the third quarter and Frankfurt was able to lead comfortably in the fourth quarter having a ten point lead. What was key in the fourth quarter for Frankfurt getting the win?

Frankfurt was able to control the paint in the fourth quarter and they got open three point shots. Frankfurt played a smart and great game. With me fouling out, we couldn´t keep our game plan going, because whenever we had to give something up on the three point line or under the basket, they were able to counter.

As a rookie last season, you got experience in the D-league with Springfield and in the third league in Spain. What were the most important things that you could learn?

The D-league was great. I only played seven games, but it was my first pro experience and I learned the ropes how to take care of my body and just see that daily grind. In Spain, there was a total different style than in the States. I got my first taste of how the European game works and it helped me now in Germany, but it is still a learning process and am still learning each day.

You were born in the Bronx, but grew up in Manhattan. What was the worst thing that you experienced in the Bronx?

Well to be honest I never really had anything bad happen to me, but I did see some bad things. There are some bad parts of the Bronx, but also some good parts and the Bronx often gets a bad rap in movies. I am happy that nothing happened to my family or friends. I am also thankful that basketball kept me busy as a kid and I didn´t slip into anything bad. It is just sad what happens there. The youth of today need to be smarter.

Your teammate Geddes Robinson also comes from the Bronx. Did you know him prior to coming to Rhondorf?

We actually did. We met in high school when we were 16 or 17. We didn´t talk again until this season. It was nice coming in knowing that there was a guy that I had known before and that he was no random guy.

Last season at Oviedo(Leb Silver) you played together with Bryan Leduc. Who won a one on one in practice?

He was a great guy. I learned so much from him and he took me under his wing and showed me the ropes showing me how to live in Europe. Of course I would win a one on one, but he is a great shooter with moves inside and is a great shooter.

Your coach at Iona(NCAA) was ex NBA player Jeff Ruland who was an NBA allstar in 1984. What is the most important thing that you learned from him?

He told me that the game in the 80s was a totally different game where there was more grinding and more physical play. He said nowadays the NBA is so superstar orientated. He was a great coach and it was nice having a big man as a coach which isn´t so usual. He taught me how to be always strong on the court and use my emotion to my advantage.

Last season, you played in the D-league for the Springfield Armour. You played for Bob Mckinnon who seems like a calm coach. What could you learn from him?

Yes that is right he is calm and grows confidence into a player. He taught to always be ready no matter if your playing 30 minutes or only one minute. He also was my first professional coach and taught me how to always be professional and focus on getting a little better each day.

You played at Iona(NCAA) Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

There were quite a few, but if I had to name a few than I would say Evan Turner and Elton Brand who was tough to play against. I played against Brand in summer pick up games.

Did you ever meet ex Skyliner Greg Jenkins who also played at Iona?

I didn´t play with him at Iona, but practiced with him during the summers. He is quiet, but a great guy. He is a physical player that taught me to always look for things on the court. He is very dedicated to the weight room and got me to become more of a physical player and get me into the weight room.

In you last season at Iona, you had Tim Cluess as your head coach. How did he get you ready for a professional basketball career?

He taught me how to understand the offense more. I was more of a defensive player, but I learned to read plays better on offense and defense.

When you were a kid, who did you dream about being when you were on the playgrounds?

Well I started very late with basketball at age 15. I came to basketball,  because of a bet where someone bet me that I couldn´t make the team, but I was the last guy picked freshman year. I always liked Tim Duncan, because of his demeanor and I love his emotion. He is also the perfect role model for kids.

Who will win the Superbowl?

The 49ers will win.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Hang Over 2.

Thanks Alejo for the chat.

 

Every season, there are always certain players that arrive in the Beko BBL where fans get as excited as a little boy does entering Harrods in London in the toy department seeing a life size doll of Mickey Mouse, Tom Brady still does after winning big games in the NFL playoffs or 2012 Dream teamer Anthony Davis possibly getting reved up about pepping up his unibrow with the team colors of the New Orleanes Hornets. Especially in the 2013 season, the Beko BBL was spiced up with an extra abundance of ex NBA players in the league like Brose Baskets Bamberg forward Bostjan Nachbar who hit the Fraport Skyliners in Bamberg with three quick three pointers in the first quarter before Ted Scott could was even able to grab into his holster and use his quick release snipper qualities, Lawrence Roberts who played two seasons in the NBA with the Memphis Grizzlies and already as a rookie could battle with guys like Rudy Gay, Hakim Warrick and even look up to Pau Gasol and inquire where Elvis Pressley´s house is for sightseeing purposes. The Beko BBL also got a late treat before Christmas getting another ex NBA player to their roster with Ryan Gomes. If it hadn´t been already enough NBA luxury this season getting talented ex New Jersey Nets forward Dennis Horner, they were able to get the American. Gomes is from Cape Verde and is a 30 year old 201cm forward from Waterbury, Connecticut with biggest thrill is sports earning the Billy Finn Award as the top player in Waterbury. He has added range to his outside shooting and bulked up his frame. The result is a quick, agile player who runs the court extremely well, and can defend and rebound inside, even being a little undersized.He played at Providence from 2001-2005 and tore up the NCAA in his senior year playing  31 games: 21.6ppg, 8.2rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 49.6%, 3Pts: 38%. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2005 where he played until 2007. He then played three years for the Minnesota Timberlakes and the last two seasons for the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite playing seven years in the NBA and amassing 481 games his claim to fame is being shipped to Minnesota for Kevin Garnett in 2007 and the rest is history. So far in eight games he is averaging 12,8ppg and hauls down 5,9rpg and dished out 1,8apg. He hasn´t shown his total package yet, but that is understandable. Basketball expert Steven Clauss had his doubts about Gomes and had this to say shortly before it was made official that he had returned back to the States“ Gomez is new to Europe coming straight form the NBA and it is never easy to adjust as it is a new world in Europe. He still needs to adjust, but should he adjust, then that could change the play of the Artland Dragons”, stressed basketball expert Steven Clauss. All eyes in the Fraport arena could have been on Gomes if he had still been on the team, but it is also a joy to watch 2013 Beko BBL allstar three point winner Demond Mallet flash his winner style even if he has never played a minute in the NBA. Without ex NBA player Ryan Gomes as well as without athletic flyer Bryce Taylor and 7 time German champion Guido Gruinheid, they were able to beat the Fraport Skyliners 62-58. The Fraport Skyliners were looking to break their one game losing streak, but played a miserable first half, and got better in the second half and made a comeback in the fourth, but to no avail. “In the first half, we played like chickens with their heads cutoff. In the second half, we played with more heart, energy and determination. In the fourth quarter we were carried by Quantez Robertson and Zach peacock that played very aggressive. However at the end like always, we started to come back to late”, stressed American point guard Dawan Robinson. The Artland Dragons that have been underachieving as if they were related to the Los Angeles Lakers were riding a three game losing streak, but in Frankfurt came together like a team and played solid for 40 minutes. “Even if we are missing guys, we still have a very deep roster that will compensate losses. We had a very good first half where Anthony King and Brad Buckman carried us. It was an overall very good team performance”, stressed Dragon guard Bryce Taylor.

The game marked the return of two ex Skyliners with Brad Buckmann and Anthony King. Buckman who comes from Austin, Texas and can witness bats flying around in the city if bored had played shortly for Frankfurt back in the 2010-2011 season, but was the odd man out when then coach Gordon Herbert chose to pick Joe Dabbert over him for the rest of the season. Buckmann left the team and had two strong seasons in Turkey averaging 19ppg and 9rpg for Antayla and last season 13ppg and 7rpg with Bursa. He was relaxed and carefree after destroying his ex team with 14 points and 13 rebounds and still had nice to say despite the circumstances of how he had left. “It was cool to be back. It had been over two years ago when I had played here and I remembered the great fans and atmosphere here. I was excited to play against my ex team and wanted to play well after how I ahd left the team, but honestly I never held a grudge against the Skyliners. It is a business and they picked Joe Dabbert. I went on to have good seasons in Turkey. It was a blessing in disguise. It was amazing to see how well Buckman and King were able to harmonize in just 72 hours since the arrival of the Texas native. “Buckman is a smart player. He knows how to move without the ball and to get to the rebound. He just doesn´t need much time to get used to a system no matter what it is. He played very well with King”, stated ex Bonn player Bryce Taylor. “The system in Spain didn´t fit me, but the system of Koch does. I am more of a four and not really to post up. I just know where to be on the court. I am 29 years old and just know the rules well”, added Brad Buckmann. “Artland didn´t need a Gomez. Buckmann was great and they found a great replacement with him”, warned Skyliner guard Konstantin Klein.

Anthony King played for the Skyliners in the 2008-2009 season under Murat Didin as a rookie and then played two very strong seasons in the lower league in Cyprus and was able to polish his game being rewarded with a late season pick up by a first division Greek season. For InterCollege Etha Engomis he played  EuroChallenge: 8 games: 17.0ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.1apg, Blocks-1(2.0bpg), FGP: 53.6%, FT: 76.2%; Cyprus League: 16 games: 14.3ppg, Reb-2(10.0rpg), 1.1apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-2(1.8bpg), FGP: 54.1%, 3PT-3(50.0%), FT: 76.8%; German head coach Stefan Koch became aware of that and hauled him to Artland for the 2011-2012 season. Last season he averaged 9,9ppg and 5,9rpg and has continued to develop well. King returned back to Frankfurt and just dominated in the first half picking off rebounds like apples in an orchard and finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks and two steals. A few years ago there were rumors that Demond Mallet was trying to get his cousin NBA legend Shaq to play a few games in Belgium, but that never materialized on account of an injury. If Mallet ever had ideas to do that again, he should just look at Anthony King who is playing like a mini Shaq. “King was very tough down low. It is great watching him, because he doesn´t sit in the post waiting to get the ball, but works to get it. He gave Peacock a hard time. He plays with so much energy and we feed off each other. He is like a mini Shaq for us”, stressed Brad Buckmann. King who is a soft spoken American lets his play speak for him, but after the big win, he spent some time reflecting on Frankfurt and his game. “I think I have developed well. I don’t like to look at my rookie season. It was tough and some things really messed me up. It went as far that I almost didn´t come back to Europe. I am thankful for coach Klaus Perwas. He has seen my development and he has seen me improve my inside game. Klaus is a good guy and I value his opinion. I wish I was a mini Shaq. I am no 7.1 300 pound player, but just try my best in each game. Buckman and I really harmonize well. We both go to the glass hard and it is a real motivation to see when he goes as hard to the glass like I do. We really used the mismatches to our advantage today”, stressed Anthony King.

If there was one real noticeable thing in the pre game warm ups then it was the gum chewing of 2008 ULEB cup winner Demond Mallet who can chew gum with the best of them except for maybe Kenny Frease who is in a league of his own on the cow pastures. The Fraport Skyliners had been on a six day team building training camp in Tenerifa and it was hoped that they would find a quick answer on the court, but instead witnessed the Artland Dragons race out to a 10-0 lead. King scored twice inside, Buckmann grabbed an offensive rebound and made a put back while little used German Acha Njei who played for the injured Bryce Taylor dropped a three pointer. The Artland Dragons found their rhythm quick on offense and Anthony King and Brad Buckmann were a two man wrecking crew on the boards and making points. The Fraport Skyliners had a tough time getting into rhythm. Frankfurt also had some real bad luck as a few shots rolled around the toilet bowl as if the basket was clogged up. It took Frankfurt almost six minutes to score their first points as it was Quantez Robertsons coring hard on the penetration. He also would be the first Skyliner to score in each quarter. The crashing the boards continued for the Artland Dragons as King and Buckman hauled down two offensive rebounds and secured putbacks. Danilo Barthel and Robertson hit shots to make the 18-8 disadvantage after one quarter not look so bad. “The Artland Dragons attacked from the start and were playing very good defense forcing the Skyliners to turnovers and limiting them to one shot. King also was playing. When Frankfurt was trapping or double teaming him, he seemed to have problems though”, stressed Fraport Skyliner junior Taylor Brown. The Artland Dragons were shooting 64% from the two point range, and 25% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 20% from the two point range and 29% from outside. The rebounding was crucial as Artland dominated the boards 13-3. Both teams had four turnovers a piece.

In the second quarter, the Artland Dragons continued to dominate the game going on a 8-3 run to extend their lead to 28-11. The Artland big men continued to do what they wanted to inside as Serb Petar Popovic scored a tough hook shot over Johannes Voigtman, King hit a pull up jumper and 2011 French cup winner Marquez Haynes made a off balance shot. Frankfurt continued to be disorganized on offense with two air balls from Robinson and Dowell and King pulled out his Shaq face blocking Quantez Robertson twice. German guard Konstantin Klein stopped the Artland run with a big three pointer. Klein finished with six points and two rebounds in 22 minutes and was one of the better Skyliner players of the day after Tez and Peacock. “Klein had a good game. No matter what the score is, he always comes in and gives energy. Even if he misses a shot, he doesn´t drop his head, but continues to shoot. He has the right attitude”, stressed Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. King then hit a brutal turn around shot over Peacock and Dowell and Popovic ended the second quarter with a mid distance jumper from the wing as the Artland Dragons led 35-16 at the break. “Frankfurt played better at the start of the second quarter, but then seemed to unfold again at the end. We simply weren´t making shots and it seemed like some guys were not in their normal rhythm. I know how good this team can be in practice, but I didn´t see that in the first half. Their defense was good. They did a good job on pick and role and trappings and when they doubled in the post, Artland had problems. But you can´t win games when your outrebounded 22-13”, stressed Atlanta native Taylor Brown. The Artland Dragons were shooting 52% from the field and 20% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 23% from the field and 27% form the three point line. Artland had the 22-13 rebound advantage and 10 turnovers while Frankfurt had 11 turnovers.

The Fraport Skyliners were quickly back on the court after the halftime talk von Muli katzurin and it seemed to do wonders in the first few minutes as they jumped out on a 7-2 run to cut the Artland Dragon lead to 37-23. Robertson started the run with a lay up with a hard penetration to the hole and Peacock followed with a lay in. The run was interrupted with a King lay in fed nicely from Buckman and quiet Ted Scott dropped a bomb from outside. However the Fraport Skyliners were unable to build on this run as the Dragons stormed back on a 7-0 run to extend their lead again to 44-23. Johannes Strasser hit a three pointer, Buckman finished a crushing dunk after King found him open in traffic and King then hit a jumper. Frankfurt then went on a 6-0 run all benefited by free throws as Robertson made five points. Frankfurt was playing more aggressive defense, but weren´t rewarded on offense as they  continued to miss shots and had the tendency to play a bit too much one on one and disregarding being more calm in their sets. Popovic scored on a hook shot over Scott and Mallet hit free throws to close out the third quarter as the Artland Dragons still led comfortably 48-29. The Artland Dragons were shooting 70% from the two point range and only 19% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 21% from the field and 22% from the parking lot. Artland still led the rebound duel 32-23, but had 15 turnovers while Frankfurt had 12 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners made their run and got out fats going on a 8-1 run to cut the Artland lead to 49-37. The Fraport arena after being quieter than usual in the first three quarters slowly came to life. Robertson started the run with a carbon copy penetration to the hoop like to start the third quarter. Super Tez then got an offensive rebound and put back. Peacock then played pick and roll with Gibson for an easy lay up and Tez scored again. Frankfurt was playing their Katzurian style of aggressive defense where each player was helping and surprising the Dragons on countless occasions and for once the offense was clicking. However Artland was strong enough still on offense to keep their lead up as King made a mid distance jumper and Klein nailed a three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 51-40. Buckman and Peacock exchanged buckets as Artland still led 53-42. Artland then had an extra burst of energy going on a mini 5-0 run to extend their lead to 58-42. Buckman connected on a put back and little used Ben Spoeler scored inside. Devin Gibson and Peacock then scored back to back to cut the Dragon lead to 58-49. Mallet then found Buckman that flew to the hoop like a blond Austin bat making his third dunk of the day. The Fraport Skyliners then made their last run as a hot Peacock scored a jumper and then made a nifty reverse layup making a free throw to cut the Artland lead to 60-55. After a Strasser free throw, Robertson who eclipsed his best scoring game of 20 points against Alba Berlin hit a big three pointer with four second remaining as Frankfurt trailed only 61-58. However Strasser closed out the game with a free throw 62-58. “Frankfurt struggled shooting and we knew that it wouldn´t lastTez and Peacock got hot at the end with big shots. I was getting a little nervous at the end”, expressed Bryce Taylor. “We didn´t have enough juice in the tank. We had used so much energy on offense and defense throughout the game”, added Quantez Robertson.

The Artland Dragons were led by Anthony King with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Brad Buckman added 14 points and 13 rebounds. Johannes Strasser contributed 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Quantez Robertson with 23 points and 14 rebounds. “I was very aggressive today and just took what the defense gave me”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Zach Peacock added 19 points and two rebounds. The Fraport Skyliners continue to have woes on offense and shot only 34% from the field and 26% from outside. Why the offense is so inconsistent remains a mystery. “Our offense works in practice, but as soon as we play games it doesn´t. We show that we can score with 29 points in the fourth quarter, but we have to be more consistent”, explained Konstantin Klein. The defense continues to be a bright spot while the rebounding continues to be a nasty thorn in their side that probably won´t be removed in Munich either. “Artland have great inside players. Buckman is wide, King shut down Peacock and Popovic makes those hook shots. We have to work harder on rebounding. Our defense was very good especially in the fourth quarter. That is how we have to always play not just in one quarter”, added Konstantin Klein.

Eric Boateng is a 27 year old 208cm center from London England that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany in the Beko BBL with the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He started his basketball career at Duke in 2005-2006. He then transferred to Arizona State in 2006 and played there until 2010. In his senior year, he played : 33 games: 8.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 54.2%. In 2010-2011, he turned professional playing for the  Idaho Stampede (D-League): 17 games: 5.2ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 46.1%, FT: 52.9%, in Feb.”11 moved to Austin Toros (D-League): 22 games: 4.9ppg, 4.9rpg. Last season, he played for  DASH Peristeri GS Athens (Greece-A1, starting five), left in Jan.”12 because of injury: 7 games: 8.4ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 65.7%, FT: 46.4%. He is a member of the british national team and played European Championships in Lithuania -11: 4 games: 1.5ppg, 2.0rpg and at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) -12: 3 games: 4.0ppg, 2.7rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

You came very late to the  New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. Were you surprised that it took so long for you to find a team?

No not really. I just took what I got. The Phantoms were interested in my services and I just want to give my best.

You come form London. How have you been getting used to the smaller city of Braunschweig?

It is taking some time. I haven´t had much time to see my surroundings since It has been going to the gym and back to the apartment. But it is a nice environment in Brausncwehig.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig have had a slow start losing some close games. What have been the reasons for the slow start?

We have had problems executing and sustaining the maximum effort for the whole time in a game and in practice.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you look up to Nick Schneiders?

That he is tall and is a big presence under the basket.

How would you describe your game?

I just try to do what it takes to help the team win games. I just try to defend hard, rebound and making winning plays.

What is the biggest strength in your game?

There are so many ways how to help effect a game. I just give my all in each game.

What do you like most about the game of Dennis Schroeder?

Dennis has so much talent. He works so hard and just competes each day. This is something that I appreciate when I see a young guy like him doing it.

How do you make Immanuel Mcelroy laugh?

I didn´t know that he didn´t laugh. He is a very friendly guy and has made me feel very welcome.

What was your childhood like in England?

I had a great childhood in south west London. I really appreciate having my family around and was lucky to have them.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

I like to study the game of basketball. I like watching past and present players like Steve Nash, Kevin Mchale, Akeem Olajuhan,  and Tim Duncan. There are really so many great players to watch.

What were you able to learn from NBA player Josh Mcroberts from the Orlando Magic?

He always worked hard and continues to do so and that is something I appreciated.

After a year at Duke, you went three years to Arizona State. Why didn´t the team ever go far in the NCAA tournament?

We made it to the tournament. And when you look at our record, we won many games my time there.

What will you never forget from the 2012 opening ceremony at the Olympics in London?

Just seeing all the emotions. I am proud of being there and thanks all the coaches and my family for helping get there and experience it.

Who was the greatest athlete that you met there?

I was surrounded by so many incredible athletes. It wasn´t only basketball players, but also from other sports like track and field.

Who would win a one on one you or Luol Deng?

I am not sure, but it would be  a good game.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row with missing?

My goal  after practice is to always make 10-15 in a row.

What has been your most crazy shot in a game that went in?

I always try to finish strong in every game no matter what and try to dunk.

Who was the best opponent that you played against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

James Harden was my teammate.

What was the last DVD movie that you watched?

I don´t watch many DVD´s. I like to read and am currently reading the Steven Jobs autobiography.

Thanks Eric for the chat.

Johannes Voigtmann is a 20 year old German from Eisnach that is playing his first season for the Fraport Skyliners. He is a former handball player and started to play basketball at age 15… He has quick feet and is agile and mobile for his size, a big and versatile talent that can play both inside spots with efficacy, tough and strong, has good lateral mobility, can face the basket and put the ball on the floor, has good vision of the court, excellent passer for his size and position, has a soft touch up to 3-point range, has a good attitude and stays always under control, not afraid of contact, has good control of his body when driving to the basket and against pick and rolls he is always ready and has the quickness to step out and double. He started his basketball career in 2009 for TuS Jena II (2.Regionalliga). Last season for  Science City Jena (ProA), he played  28 games: 4.1ppg, 3.1rpg. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

What playing quality would you like to have from 2012 Beko BBL MVP John Bryant?

Just to be able to have everything in control. He always knows exactly what he has to do. I think that is one of the reasons why he was MVP.

Were you able to learn anything from physical Jason Boone when you played against him this season?

He lives form his athletic play and strength. I would like to be bale and move as well as him.

You are playing your first season with the Fraport Skyliners. Did the Skyliners have the first contact to you or did you approach them?

In the off season I wanted to find a Beko BBL program. I had some teams that were interested. The Fraport Skyliners contacted me pretty late, but right away I liked the infrastructure and everything about the organization.

You come from the former East Germany. How comfortable are you living in Frankfurt?

I feel very comfortable here. I like the downtown area. I had been here many times before. My dad had run the marathon in Frankfurt.

You are progressing very nicely as a rookie in the Beko BBL. How difficult is it making the transition?

There are always highs and lows. I am very happy to be able to get the confidence of the coach and be able to play so many minutes so far. I just try to give my best and use my chance.

How difficult is the physical stress of playing beko BBL and PRO B?

There is a lot of physical stress, but I knew what to expect coming in. I also had this in Jena so I kind of used to it. I also have played some fewer PRO B games because of the injuries. I do feel the stress at night when I go to bed.

Would you agree when I say that you use the Beko BBl to learn and PRO B to work on your strength and weaknesses?

Yes that was the plan coming in. I can learn a lot from Zack Peacock and Marius Nolte.

What has been the most important thing that you have learned from Muli Katzurin?

Just always being aggressive. He always stresses to be aggressive. We play a very aggressive defense something I wasn´t used to before, but I am getting used to it now.

Your ally-op dunk against ratiopharm Ulm was more soft than banging. Will we see more banging dunks from you in the future?

I hope so. I work every morning on my athletic skills. I am on a good way.

Danilo Barthel seems to be more a quiet guy. How does he bring you to laugh?

Danilo Barthel, Konstantin Klein and me are a good trio. We hang out a lot and always bring each other to laugh. Our characters fit each other well.

What is a strength in your game that gets unnoticed?

I think my general understanding of the game.

We saw a lot of the give and go in the preseason with Konstantin Klein and yourself. Do you practice it a lot in practice?

We don´t so much at the moment since Klein plays the two now. If we get a chance to use it in the game then we use it.

You come from Eisenach. What do you miss most form there?

Not much except my family. I haven´t lived there in while since I was living in Jena the last years. My brother also was living in Jena.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

Dirk Nowitzki and non basketball idols were Ali and Michael Schumacher.

How did Georg Eichler coach at Jena get you prepared for the Beko BBL?

He did very much individual training with me and was interested in leading me to reaching the Beko BBL. He gave me a lot of confidence and gave me minutes last season that really helped me.

How does Philipp Neumann make you better when you are together with the German U-20 team?

He is already very far with his game for his age. He found a role quick in Bamberg and has played Euroleague. He is always aggressive and it is a challenge to paly against him. I would like to become more agile like him.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Philipp Neumann?

We haven´t played so much one on one, but I think he would beat me 6-4 or 7-3 if we played 10 times.

How many free throws have you made in a row without missing?

43.

What was your most crazy shot in your career?

I can´t think of one.

What NBA player would you like to meet?

Metta World Peace.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Edge of darkness with Mel Gibson.

Thanks Joe for the chat.

When you look at the tough guys like John Bryant, Kenny Frease, Zack Peacock or a Brandon Hunter last season from the Beko BBL, you would never think that anything could ruffle their feathers on the court as they battle with anyone that comes in their way and rarily put off their game faces. However it would be interesting to see how they would react when something goes wrong in a plane 12,000 meters in the air? Marian Schick (204-C-86) of PRO B team the Hanau White Wings may not be as well known as those Beko BBL players, but he is a tough 204cm player that can battle inside. Currently he is averaging 9,4ppg and 6,4 rpg and 1,4apg and has added 11 rebounds twice this season against Nordlingen and Leverkusen. Running into a Johannes Voigtmann of the Fraport Sklyiners juniors in the lane could give him a shock, but he really expereinced a schock recently while flying on the The 787 Dreamliner which applies breakthrough technologies to an all-new airplane design. Recently he was enjoying his break from PRO B play in Addis Abeba in Ethiopia and on his return flight experienced something that one wouldnt ever imagine flying in such a technological innovative jet plane. While flying back to Frankfurt, he suddenly noticed dark splits in the window. “I had a very quesy feeling. But luckily we only had an hour left to go until Frankfurt”, stressed Marian Schick. The pilot quickly gave the all clear warning to the pasengers. The window was damaged, but their was no risk. One thing is for sure, in the next practice, Marian Scick will have a story to tell his teammates.

Source: http://www.bild.de

Dominique Johnson is a 25 year old 177cm guard from Kansas City, Missouri that recently played in Germany in the PRO A fort he Duesseldorf Giants. He played at N.Texas (NCAA) and in his senior year played 33 games: 10.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 85.7%. For the Duesseldorf Giants, he played 12 games averaging 1,9ppg and 1,0rpg while averaging 7,3 minutes per game. He spoke to German Hoops about his experience with the club.

Where are you now? Are you still in Duesseldorf. Are you surprised that you are no longer a member of the Duesseldorf Giants?
I am back home in Kansas City,MO. I am not surprised I am no longer in Dusseldorf because I chose to leave the team on my own.

It was stated today on the Duesseldorf Giants web page that you had left the team on account of personal reasons. Is that accurate?

Yes

What are the main reasons for you not being a Duesseldorf Giant anymore?

I have been playing basketball since I was four years old and I have always been a headline guy at the places I been. I just wasn’t happy with the minutes I was getting because I know what kind of player I am and more than that I proved it in practice. The coach felt like he had to play certain guys and I didn’t agree with it. I did not play one game then 3 minutes then 5 minutes then a dnp. I’m a better player than that and I’m so hungry to show what I can do.

You were MVP at the summer camp of Mike Hart in Las Vegas which got you the job. Were you surprised that you only averaged 7 minutes per game?

Yes the Mike Hart camp was like a seal that it was my time to explode into the overseas realm because it was a lot of great players there and I stole the show. I was told that Dusseldorf needed a point guard right away and I was so eager to come and play right away because I knew it would have been a great opportunity to start my career. I was shocked at the minutes I was getting because week by week I was becoming a better player.

You had a very strong and experienced point guard in front of you with Gary Johnson. You played well in pratcice, but still got little minutes. Did you ever have discussions with Murat Didin about your playing time?

Yes Gary is a good guard and he played the one and the two but we are different types of guards. I am an uptempo type of guard who likes to get it on the break and create for others and who can create for myself. I thought that we should have been on the court together more. I talked to him as the season progressed but I never really had that many conversations about playing because I feel like if I show you in practice then it ain’t nothing to talk about.

How difficult was this experience as a rookie? Is there anything that you learned with this experience with the Duesseldorf Giants?

I picked up on some key things in Germany. Mainly off the court on just how to be a man and stand on your own two feet. I really think it helped me a lot and I don’t consider myself a rookie. When you think about it you are really not a rookie if you played college basketball for 4 years and then you have somebody on your team who is German that is 21 and they have been playing in the German pro league for 3 years and they are considered to have some type of experience. Basketball is basketball!

What teammate helped you the last months with the tough situation of not getting minutes?

Patrick Flomo

Duesseldorf is in third place with a record of 10-5. What are the chances of the team to move to the Beko BBL next season? Do they have the potential to get there with this team?

Its going to be interesting going into the new season. I think they have the best player in the league in Patrick Flomo and players that will get him the ball and know their role and I know Coach is real good on film in correcting mistakes. I think they can do it but its not going to be easy. With or without me it still would be tough.

What were you able to learn from veteran Patrick Flomo on and off the court as a rookie?

Flomo was a basketball player but a family man first which I really respected from him. I have a 6 year old daughter who I love and take care of but to see how Flomo was being a dad just really encouraged me to be a better father to my daughter. On the court he just always stressed to be vocal and keep working hard no matter what.

What is the next step for Dominique Johnson? Will you go back home or look for a job in Europe?

I want to play. As simple that. I don’t want anything given to me because I will put in the work and hard work has got me this far so I’m not worried because I know God is in control.

What do you like the most about Germany and would you like to continue to play here?

It had to be the swag of the people in Dusseldorf. People are real fancy out there and it just blew my mind because I thought America had all the swag. I would love to come back to Germany and play. I got a little taste of it but next time I’m trying to take a big bite.

What is your opinion of the Los Angeles Clippers? Where will there basketball journey end this season in the playoffs?

Chris Paul is my favorite player in the NBA. I think he can lead that team to the conference finals but because they really don’t have their post fully developed to help them overcome the Thunder or Spurs

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Dark Knight Rises#classic

Thanks Dominique for the chat.