Dijuan Harris is a 175cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that started the season with the LTi Giessen 46ers and now moved to BC Prievidza. He is a guard that is super fast and strong point guard. Pushes the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. He is a great defender because of his quickness, and beats the offense to the spot because of his great anticipation.Last season, he played for  Usak Universitesi Belediyespor (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 36 games: 14.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 23.4%, FT: 72.9%. He played at Charlotte in the NCAA breaking various school records. In his rookies eason in 2010, he played for Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five), left in Nov.’10: 11 games: 19.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Germany was your third station in Europe. After a strong start to the season where you scored in double figures in three of the first four games, you now are no longer playing for the LTi Giessen 46ers. Would you have thought that it would come to this?

No I never thought it would come to this, but in life sometimes things happen that you don’t plan. It’s not that it happened It’s How I respond to it now that it has.

How disappointed are you not being able to finish the season with the LTi Giessen 46ers? Would you have liked to finish the season under other circumstances? The club was effected by their financial problems throughout the season?

I would have loved to finish season here, but do to the situation at hand it was best to move on.

You averaged over 30 minutes in the first six games and then your minutes went down drastically. Why do you think this happened? Perhaps with the emergence of Achmadschah Zazai?

I’m not the coach and I don’t make those decisions. Still to this day I don’t know why it happened. There was never a conversation as to why it happened. I felt like I was backed up against the wall and had nowhere to go, but I wish them nothing but the best in their ongoing effort to finish the season strong

Do you believe that head coach Matthias Fischer lost confidence in you?

Honestly Yes I do, and when it gets to that point It’s nothing you can do. I’m not so sure why though. I was playing well, but then the light switched and I wasn’t playing hardly at all, and that was tough. This was the toughest situation I have been in as a player. I wish things could of worked out differently. I felt like I could of helped the team more if given the same opportunity as in the beginning. There was never a reason, conversation, explanation as to why. This has made me so much stronger, and hungrier to prove that I belong.

Do you think that you could have showed more of your talent had you had more playing time?

Yes, I feel that would be any player. If I was given more time I would have been able to showcase my talent a lot more.

How difficult was it as a professional basketball player playing with a team where no one knew what would happen next on account of the financial difficulties?

IN THAT SITUATION YES IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO PLAY NOT KNOWING, BUT I WAS FINE BECAUSE UP UNTO THAT POINT EVERYTHING WAS ON TIME FINANCIALLY SO AS A PLAYER YOU MUST JUST DO YOUR JOB AND CONTINUE ON.

How intense was the on court rivalry with Achmadschah Zazai? Was the guard competition one of the most intense that you have experienced in your basketball career so far?

IT WAS NO ON COURT RIVALRY WITH ME AND CHA CHA.

Giessen let Americans Ryan Brooks and Laquan Prowell go to the Fraport Skyliners to free up money to save their season, but then brought in Sharaud Curry. Does that make sense? They could of gone with Zazai and Jonas Wiesner in the guard rotation.

I know Curry, he is a great guy. First and foremost, and he played for Mathias last season, so I feel it was the connection they had and him being right here in Giessen.

What did you learn from your experience with the LTi Giessen 46ers that will help you down the road?

I learned a lot, most importantly I LEARNED HOW TO HANDLE A SITUATION YOU CAN’T WIN, NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO.

I saw your best game against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven where you scored 23 points and dished out four assists. What was your most fond game memory with Giessen?

The first game against Hagen. We won at their place. I had 13pts 9ass. Bremerhaven statistically was best game, but Hagen was best performance. We played together and had fun and got a win. Oh, yeah on one particular play I threw Ryan Brooks an alley-op and then did the CAM NEWTON. That was funny to back and see it on tape,

What is the next step for Dijuan Harris? Would you like to play for another team in Germany?

The next step for Dijuan Harris, is to continue on with my career in a different country. I know already Where I’m going just can’t announce it yet. If there were a team in need of a pg Yes, I like Germany and the BBL is a great competitive league.

Who was your most difficult player opponent that you played against on the court in Germany?

There were a lot of very good players here. The most difficult is a tough question. I would probably say Rice from Munich, or Burrell from Bremerhaven. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, I WANT TO THANK HEIKO AND MANAGEMENT FOR THE OPPORTUNITY AND THE FANS OF GIESSEN WERE GREAT. ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO PLAY IN BBL. THINGS DON’T ALWAYS GO AS PLANNED, BUT YOU MUST BE READY WHEN SITUATION COMES UP THAT YOU AS A PLAYER CAN’T CONTROL. IN MY CASE ADVERSITY STRUCK, BUT IT’S HOW I REACT TO IT THAT WILL MAKE ME A BETTER PERSON, AND PLAYER. I AM CONFIDENT IN MYSELF, AND MY ABILITY TO GET THE JOB DONE ON THE FLOOR. I WILL BOUNCE BACK FROM THIS, IT’S JUST A SMALL SETBACK TO MY AMAZING COMEBACK. AGAIN, I WISH GIESSEN NOTHING BUT THE BEST IN THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS. I HAD A GREAT TIME WHILE IT LASTED, BUT THE NEW SITUATION WILL GIVE ME A NEW MINDSET.

Who will win the Superbowl?

I am going with Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Taken 2.

Thanks Dijuan for the chat.

Jeffery Bonds is a 30 year old 199cm small forward that can adapt to any style of play. Can shoot the long 3 ball, also can attack inside, all-around player, very good in rebounds. Has the ability to score in a variety of ways. Take pride in defense. He played at Cal-Poly Pomona (NCAA2) from 2001-2005. He started his professional basketball career in 2005-2006 for the  Birmingham Bullets (United Kingdom-BBL): 34 games: 17.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 31.7%, 3FT: 70.9%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Sheffield Sharks (United Kingdom-BBL, starting five): 36 games: 21.7ppg, 9.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3Pts: 34.4%. From 2007-2012, he played in Spain for teams like Basquet Muro (Spain-LEB Silver), Calefacciones Farho Gijon (Spain-LEB Silver), Basquet Mallorca (Spain-LEB Gold) and CB Lobe Huesca (Spain-LEB Gold). Last season he played 27 games: 10.6ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT. This season he played for the LTi Giessen 46ers playing 5 games averaing 5,2ppg and 3,0rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

You came very late to the LTi Giessen 46ers in December. How tough has the job market been this season? Does it seem to be getting tougher in the last years?

I can’t speak for all the players but for me the market has been somewhat difficult this year. The players that I know personally that have played in Europe seem to feel the same also. Some have jobs but some don’t at this moment. I think it’s becoming a little more difficult because players are willing to sacrifice certain things just so they can play.

You played the last six years in Spain. Did you just want to make a change of scenary or why didn´t you remain in Spain?

Spain was a wonderful experience but I felt in my heart it was time for a change in my career. Plus, I wanted to see other parts of Europe and the lifestyle it brings.

Was it a big adjustment coming to Germany? You played the last four seasons in the strong LEB Gold league?

I think the biggest adjustment was playing with more Americans and the game being more physical.

Did you know coming to the LTI Giessen 46ers that the club was having financial problems?

I wasn’t aware of the financial problems Giessen had at the moment and in the past until I arrived.

How tough was your stay in general with the club as they were going through their financial woes?

My stay in Giessen was fine, met some great people. We as players still remained professional during the financial issues that were present at the moment because we understood we just had a job at the moment.

You averaged 30 minutes in your first three games with Giessen. How happy were you with your preformances in those games?

I am my biggest critic when it comes to the game. I felt I could have played better but out of the first 3 games we won 2 and so that made things somewhat better on my part. I also understood that I was getting in game shape for the long run and that it may take a little time for the change to develop.

What was the most difficult thing that you had to adjust to on the court in the German Beko BBL?

The biggest adjustment was the up and down pace of the game. Majority of the teams like to run and gun over here.

What were you able to learn from your short experience with the LTi Giessen 46ers on and off the court?

On the court I felt that my knowledge of the game was already great being an eight year pro. Off the court there was more team bonding, such as pregame lunch at home games, etc.

You are staying in shape with FC Bayern Munich. How ready are you to be on the court again?

I always treat my body with respect because at the end of the day this is my job, and I’m a true professional but I understand that the only way to get in game shape is to play games…5 on 5 for example.

How could you help a team right away. What is your most important attributes as a player?

I think I can help a team with my versatility and defense on the court, and positive attitudes. At the end of the day I just want to win and I am willing to do whatever it requires for that.

What is a strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away and gets overlooked?

Strengths in my game that doesn’t get noticed are the fact that I can defend several positions, 2-4. A lot of times I am classified as just a small forward/3, but I have always considered myself as just a basketball player.

You played many years in Spain. What is an experience that you will always remember on and off the court?

The fans are very passionate and supportive towards the teams, people in general being very helpful towards the transition from US to Europe that all Americans go through. I also feel there was more fundamental tactics that were implemented in Spain.

Who was the toughest player that you played against in the NCAA that might be in the NBA now?

Coming from a Division II school (Cal Poly Pomona) during the season there weren’t many players I played against that I remember. However, during my time in school I had great battles with Brad Oleson (FCB Barcelona) in the regional playoffs. We actually became good friends after all the games we played against each other.

How well will Ryan Brooks and Laquan Prowell help the Fraport Skyliners now? How do they compliment ecah other best?

I think Ryan and Laquan will help the Skyliners because they are team first players and treat every game as if it was their last. I think they will complement each other because they’re not selfish and they understand how the extra pass works, which is key in this game.

Where would you rate the Baltimore Ravens 34-31 win over the San Francisco 49ers in terms of best games ever?

I didn’t get a chance to watch the entire game, only the first half. But, I heard it was a great game at least during the 2nd half.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was Zero Dark Thirty, and thought it was ok.

Thanks Jeff for the chat.

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.