Preseason duels for basketball teams don´t only benefit the players finding a feel for each other on the court or testing their strength and weaknesses, but can also bring back some nostalgia to some fans who have been on board longer on the Skyliner train from Rhondorf. When looking back one might remember Ricardo Greer playing in the BCM four years ago for Strassburg in a test game against Murat Didin or just unleashing that famous Arsenio Hall phrase, things that make you go hmmmmmmm thinking what love the Greer brothers Ricardo and Jeff might have for France as they will be starting their 21 season combined in France this season. Ex Beko BBL veteran Louis Campbell who played in Paderborn, Giessen, Bremerhaven, Oldenburg and Tuebingen also belongs to the “lets reminisce about the past” as he stepped on the BCM floor the first time seven years ago with the LTi Giessen played against the Deutsche Bank Skyliners in a preseason joust  as the Skyliners had just been gotten the new sponsor Deutsche Bank, Nino Garris was brought in from Alba Berlin as a type of Pascal Roller identity figure side kick and fans were starting to mope around about the loss of Americans Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis. Campbell was getting instructions from Stefan Koch and he was dishing the ball to Euroleague player in the making Chuck Eidsen, had NCAA champion Souleyman Wane inside and fan favorite Florian Hartenstein ready to make an impact off the bench. After a strenious 29 minute performance where the New Jersey native was shaken up after getting hit on the knee and being looked at by the trainer, he racked up six points and five assists and doused any signs of having his injury in the Beko BBL last season not being cured as he looked as quick as ever. After the game the American did some of his own reminiscing about the BCM training facility. “The BCM is a familiar place for me. The smell was familiar. I just like to come back and play here”, stressed ex Walter Tigers Tuebingen Tiger Louis Campbell.

When the reminiscing was finally done  a basketball game was to be played and the fans got a tale of two halves as the first clearly belonged to SIG Strassburg while the second too the Fraport Skyliners. SIG Strassburg totally controlled the first half not letting the Fraport Sklyiners settle into their comfort zone as they were unable to find a rhythm and find a cure for their stingy defense. In the second half, the Fraport Skyliners got more into the game picked up their defense and started a big comeback that fell a little short in the last three minutes aS SIG Strassburg Prevailed 67-64. All in all, Fraport Skyliners head coach Muli Katzurin was pleased by the effort of his team. “This was a good training game. I talked to them about showing effort at halftime and they reacted in the second half. They showed their true character then”, stressed Fraport Skyliners head coach Muli Katzurin. SIG Strassburg let up a bit in the second half, but the Fraport Skyliners also picked up the intensity level on defense and the French PRO A team can be very happy that they won a game despite having 20 turnovers which was due to the Muli Katzurin trade mark tough defense. “Frankfurt was missing some key players, but their young players stepped it up. We knew that they would come back in the fourth quarter. I am happy that we stayed together and could win the game. We are still learning to mesh, but that will come”, added ex EWE Baskets Oldenburg guard Louis Campbell.  Devin Gibson who hurt his knee and is expected to play next weekend in Wurzburg was unable to play and had a perfect front row seat from the bench to observe the game. “Strassburg took us out of the game for the first three quarters. We picked it up in the fourth quarter with our defensive pressure, drew fouls, got to the free throw line and hit big shots. We showed then what we are capable to do on the court when we are tuned in”, commented Texas native Devin Gibson.

The Fraport Skyliners were looking for their fifth preseason win in a row, but without the services of Americans Quantez Robertson and Devin Gibson as well as captain Marius Nolte, that this would be a difficult challenge against a potential French Pro A 2013 playoff candidate was no secret. It also marked the debut of new Skyliner Dion Dowell who had arrived in Frankfurt from Houston last Saturday and was still getting the jet lag off his back. The power forward started and got the first rebound for the Skyliners showing his presence.  Strassburg started with a zone irritating the Skyliners and quickly jumping on a 4-0 lead with Campbell free throws who was very active in the eraly going penetrating and running like a mad man getting free for the open shots. Ricardo Greer then made an easy lay in after getting a no look pass from former Dirk Nowitzki teammate Alexis Ajinca.  Johannes Herber who was absent in the last few games because of an illness was back with a bit scruffier beard than against Toyota Alvark and nailed a three pointer. Ajinca scored inside easily after getting an offensive rebound. Frankfurt stayed on their backs  as it was Anthony Jones who is always free and parked in the corner when they need  a big shot making a three pointer as Strassburg led only 6-5. However Frankfurt then lost their rhythm a bit as Strassburg rolled on a 9-0 run to lead 15-5. Strassburg showed all their class on offense displaying solid team basketball. Ricardo Greer scored inside twice, Axel Toupane caught the Skyliners napping twice scoring on a transition play. Despite this rude answer, it didn´t scare the German dynamic duo of Konstantin Klein and Johannes Voigtmann who attempted their likeable give and go play as they have displayed this preseason,  the big man found the point guard back door for two quick points. American Johnathon Jones hit a big three pointer from the parking lot, but the Fraport Skyliners still trailed 19-12 after one quarter. “We looked dead and just didn´t have enough energy”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Devin Gibson.

In the second quarter, 2005 PRO A champion SIG Strassburg continued to dominate the game and they could increase their lead and go into half time with a comfortable lead.  The French team got rolling quickly jumping out on a 8-2 run to lead 27-14. Klein started the second quarter with two free throws, but Strassburg answered with 8 unanswered points as Jeff Green nailed a three pointer from the corner as he was wide open, Xavier Francois scored inside as he was fed by Jeff Greer and then a ex Beko BBL combination of Campbell to Jeff Greer gave Strassburg the 27-14 lead. Strassburg was playing more clever, but at times one could see the obvious difference in individual talent as well as weight, size and strength. After German youngster Voigtmann scored a pretty lay in, he right way got  a learning experience  as ex NBA player Alexis Ajinca rolled over Voigtman like a lawnmower does easily over high grass as Frankfurt trailed 29-16. Herber and Ajinca traded free throws and then it was Voigtman again who made a huge bucket as he was able to finally get  a lay in on the third attempt as Strassburg only led 32-20. However SIG Strassburg was able to close out the second quarter with a 6-2 run to lead 38-22 at the break. In this run, Toupane scored inside again, hit two free throws and Ricardo Greer punished Frankfurt with a hard penetration to the basket. “The first half is always our strong play. We are fresh and click right away. We get problems when we get tired and we need to concentrate more as one saw in the second half”, stressed Louis Campbell. “We hit no shots in the first half. We didn´t do a good job on offensive execution and we could of defended better”, said Fraport Skyliners forward Dion Dowell. SIG Strassburg was shooting 46% from the field and 25% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting  a miserable 21% from the field and 15% from outside. Strassburg had the easy 24-17 rebound edge. Strassburg had nine turnovers and Frankfurt six turnovers.

SIG Strassburg pretty much picked up where they left off in the second quarter by going on a 6-0 run to extend their lead to 44-22. French big man Nicolas De Jong scored with a pretty turn around shot over Voigtman, Ricardo Greer scored easily inside getting  a no look pass from Campbell and scored again inside. Strassburg  was closing the lane well, but even when Frankfurt was kicking out passes couldn´t get any open shots. With the lead getting bigger and bigger, the only bright spot and highlight for the Fraport Sklyiners at that point was Quantez Robertson jumping up from the bench and wiping away some sweat form the floor in front of the bench. The untypical burst of Super Tez energy may have given the Fraport Skyliners the needed boost that they needed at that time because they started to play with more spirit and slowly clawed there way back into the game. Frankfurt then went on a 8-3 run to cut the Strassburg lead down to 47-30. Anthony Jones scored on a lay in, Voigtmann made a fabulous baby hook over De Jong and then made free throws as did Herber. Campbell then made a dent in the run as he went hard to the hoop and scored. Strassburg led 49-30, but the Fraport Skyliners never threw in the towel, but buckled down and closed out the third quarter with a 9-4 run to trail only 53-39 after thirty minutes. The Fraport Skyliners now showed their annoying defense as they let their defense translate into their offense. Klein made a steal and forced a turnover in consecutive plays. Anthony Jones read a pass perfect jumped in between and fed Johnathon Jones who was off to the races and an easy lay in. The whole run belonged to the Frankfurt Jones clan. Anthony Jones then showed again why he is a pure scorer and guy who can score in bunches as he scored in the lane and then from downtown. Johnathon Jones then made four consecutive free throws. The only thing that put a dent into the run was a Hugo Invernizzi jumper at the buzzer. “The third quarter continues to be our Achilles heel. We didn´t play the basketball that we are capable of”, stressed Louis Campbell. “We had more energy, forced more turnovers and got into the game”, said Anthony Jones.

With the heavy rain outside, if a fan had quickly jumped out to the Mcdonalds to grab a big mac and been delayed because of  a long cue of people who had more looked for shelter from the down pour might not have believed their eyes if they had returned and seen a 53-39 for Strassburg turn into a 56-55 lead for the Fraport Skyliners. However there was no error, the Fraport Skyliners started an incredible comeback to start the fourth quarter as they paralyzed Strassburg going on a 17-2 run to lead 56-55 as possibly one of the least likely candidates made a huge contribution to the run with PRO B player Larry Wright. Larry Wright started the attack with a big three pointer which was met by Alexis Ajinca who seemed to have steam coming out of his nostrils as he did a stinging running dunk coming from the free throw line. Ajinca who played a total of 70 NBA games and was a teammate with Dirk Nowitki in Dallas in 2010-2011 looked like an infant Shaq making that dunk. If there was one body on the court that looked like a typical NBA body then it was that of Ajinca and no player disagreed. “He is one of the biggest guys that I have ever played against. He is 7.2 and all 7.2 players have NBA bodies”, smilied Larry Wright. Devin Gibson didn´t have to confront Ajinca in the zone, but could just watch and be amazed. “He is really skilled and good. That dunk was good”, joked Devin Gibson. Dowell wasn´t surprised by the dunk. “He is supposed to do that”, added Dion Dowell. After not being able to throw a ball into the ocean in the first half, now the fortune of the Fraport Skyliners  seemed to change 180 degrees as they could throw a ball of a small narrow brick wall 10 meters away. They were hitting their shots better. Dowell hit a big three pointer which got the crowd going as if the BCM had turned into a Ballsporthalle like atmosphere. Johnathon Jones then scored on a pretty penetration as Frankfurt trailed only 55-49. Strassburg looked as if their hands were tied as they couldn´t hit anything. The spirited play of Larry Wright continued as he hit a huge three pointer to cut the Strassburg lead to 55-52. Wright will be starting his second season for the PRO B team, but has found extra time on the Fraport Skyliners mainly due to a shortage of players, but he made the most of his minutes in the fourth quarter and was very calm after the loss. “The fourth quarter was very exciting. I just wanted to come in and catch my rhythm, pick up the defense intensity and just give a spark”, said Larry Wright. After two Johnathon Jones free throws, it was youngster Johannes Voigtman who made a lay in giving the Fraport Skyliners  their first lead 56-55.  However the fourth quarter just had too much minutes left as the Fraport Skyliners seemed to have lost some gas after getting the lead. Strassburg went on a 10-2 run to lead 65-58. Ricardo Greer continued to be a pain as he scored inside. De Jong used his strength inside scoring twice. The Fraport Skyliners had lost Voigtmann, Barthel and Dowell and just didn´t have the needed punch inside to make big stops when they needed to.  The Fraport Skyliners had one last straw of energy as Anthony Jones nailed a big three pointer to cut the Strassburg lead down to 65-61. However it was Jeff Greer who decided the game with a three pointer as Frankfurt now had little chance of regaining the lead as they led 67-61. “Defense helped pick up everything in the fourth, but I helped on roll and left Grier out. I should of contained more instead of helping”, stressed Larry Wright. Klein made a three pointer at the buzzer giving the 67-64 loss a strange taste. “We started to hit shots. IF you play good defense down the stretch, then usually that will get you the win”, added Louis Campbell.

SIG Strassburg was led by Ricardo Greer with 17 points and eight rebounds. Axel Toupane and Alexis Ajinca added 10 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Anthony Jones and Johnathon Jones with 14 points a piece. Johannes Voigtman added 10 points and nine rebounds. American Dion Dowell gave his debut playing 18 minutes and scoring four points, grabbing four rebounds, getting two assists and coughing up the ball twice. He is positive that he will show more in the games too come. “I arrived three days ago. I will play better. I want to get in better shape, be efficient and learn the plays”, added Dion Dowell.  SIG Strassburg shot 48% from the field and 25% from the three point line while the Fraport Sklyiners shot 33% from the field and 30% from the three point line. Frankfurt lost the rebound battle 39-29 and had only 12 turnovers while SIG Strassburg had 20 turnovers.  Despite losing the rebound battle badly and shooting poorly, there was one highlight. “We fought no matter what tonight. That was our best strength”, warned Devin Gibson. The defense continues to grow and new Skyliner Dion Dowell is thrilled about the play of his new team. “We can build off the second half of this game. WE have a good team. If we don´t let our effort level go down and always play hard then we will have a good season”, stressed Fraport Sklyiner Dion Dowell.

Jefferson Mason is a 24 year old 198cm guard from Crystal Minnesota. He played his first three seasons of college ball at  N.Colorado (NCAA) playing a total of 58 NCAA games. He then played at Minnesota State-Mankato (NCAA2) from 2009-2011 and in his senior year he played 33 games: 19.2ppg, 8.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FG%: 55.5, 3FG%: 30.6, FT%: 70.0. He started his professional basketball career in Germany for  the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA, starting five): 31 games: 17.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 65.8%. He scored in double figures 28 times and scored 20 points or more 10 times. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Jefferson thanks for taking some time to talk to eurobasket. Where are you now and how has your summer been?
I am currently in Minneapolis Minnesota working out and training and keeping myself in shape.

It is September and your still not signed. Despite a tough market, how surprised are you that you are still waiting for the phone to ring?
I’m a little surprised that I haven’t signed with any team yet but it is a tough market and thats expected. I know that something good will happen soon for me.

You had such a strong season with the Webmoebel Baskets averaging 17.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 65.8%. Have you not had any offers at all or just not the right situation?
I have had several offers in different countries and some interest in Germany but nothing that has really made me comfortable on a decision. It isn’t all about the money for me, its also about the right fit and the right organization for me.

The Webmoebel Baskets had money problems changed ownership and now are called the Finke Baskets. Was there no chance of you returning back to Paderborn?
I was not aware of their money problems until late in the season last year. They paid me all the money I was due so there was no problem at all with that. Coach Thomas Glasauer was an amazing coach and friend to me too and I loved playing for him. We never spoke of an option for next year because I think my agent and I were hoping for an opportunity in the BBL.

What were the most important things that you were able to learn on and off the court with the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn?
I learned to stay patient and to stay humble with the game of basketball. Every game and practice is a different opportunity to increase your skills and to develop relationships with your teammates. I learned to take each day in stride. I also learned that basketball was much more then performing on court but it was also about being a good person in the community and developing bonds with fans in people of the city. When you fly across the ocean to another country to live, it helps you grow up really fast and realize what your priorities really are.

You had some big games in the PRO A scoring 20 or more points 10 times. Which player was your toughest opponent last season?
I think that playing against Cheminitz was our toughest team to play because of their amazing defense. I was usually guarded by Jorge Schmidt and he was an extremely physical and disciplined defender. Playing against him was a tough challenge but extremely fun at the same time. Those are the games that you look forward to, when trying to define yourself as a player!

Your ex teammate Justin Stommes was signed by Beko BBL team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. That could have been you. Not to take anything away from his amazing talent, how does that make you feel when you see teammates getting jobs and your not?
Well first off Justin Stommes is an amazing basketball player and good friend of mine. He definitely deserved the opportunity to play in the BBL after last season. I believe that every team has different needs and there are also very limited spots opening every year in the BBL for players. This may be why I didn’t get a call. I believe its all about timing and hopefully a team will take the gamble on me, because in the end it will pay off for them.

Will Justin Stommes be able to make an impact in the Beko BBL?
He definitely will be able to in my opinion. He is a 6’8 1-3 guard that can shoot the lights out and that can handle the ball better than most pg’s. When you can shoot at a high clip from the 3 like he can, then success surely will follow.

What is your biggest strength and how could you help a team right now?
I would say my biggest strengths are my competitiveness, athletic ability, efficiency, and will to win. At every level that I have played on, I have had success. I’m a good teammate that believes that team chemistry is the identity of a championship team. I bring numerous highlights and very consistent play every day. I can defend 1-4 positions and play in any style of basketball. Winning is my number one priority and that is hard to find in some guys.

Describe your game and why should a European team be interested in your services?
I am a player that can play in a fast up and down system like in Paderborn, but that can also play in a half court system like I did in college my senior year. I rebound like a mad man, and I can score from anywhere on the court. Driving and creating shots for my teammates is something that I do well and I also score with the best of them. One thing I pride myself in is my efficiency. Scoring a lot of points without shooting every time and putting my foot print on every aspect of the game.

What is your biggest dream as a professional basketball player?
I would love to get the chance to play in the NBA but truly I would love to play this game until my body will no longer allow me to and to be as successful as possible in terms of winning games and championships. I believe that individual accolades will only go so far but team accomplishment will last in memory for a lifetime.

How does a typical workout day look like for Jefferson Mason?
Monday-Friday I get up when my wife goes to work at 7:30am and I go to the gym to get my first workout in. This includes cardio of about 3-5 miles on the treadmill, then weight training for an hour or more after that to increase strength and quickness. I will return to the gym around 2pm to do individual drills with my high school coach to work on shooting, ball handling, free throws and defensive skills. After that on Mon, Wed, and Fridays, I play 5 on 5 with local college and pro basketball players. I live, eat, sleep basketball because I want to be ready when my next opportunity comes!

Who would win in their prime the Dream Team or Team USA 2012?
Definitely the Dream Team! I say this because they had a guy on the team by the name of MICHAEL JORDAN!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
I actually watched the Green Mile the other day. Michael Clarke Duncan just passed away so I had to pay my respects. My teammates from last year will also laugh about this though, because I watched it for the first time last year and was absolutely obsessed with it. They all gave me a hard time about it!

Thanks Jefferson for the chat

Dane Watts is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He will be  playing his season season for ratiopharm Ulm.  Last season for ratiopharm Ulm, he played  38 games averaging 9.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 24.6%, FT: 58.1%He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1(68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. In 2010-2011 for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4(7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May’11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg.  At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to German Hoops about his summer and future of ratiopharm Ulm

ratiopharm Ulm had a very long season carrying through until mid June. With your old Beko BBL teams, you had had been back in the States by May. How fast did the summer go and how quickly will your son have a basketball in his hands? lol

This summer has flown bye. It is a tough trade-off for the family waiting in the states, the more successful my team is, the less time we get to spend with them. Ezekiel already has a ball, trying to get him to palm it with his left already.

You will be starting your fifth professional season with ratiopharm Ulm. As you slowly get older does anything change in your off season workout plan in comparison to when you were a rookie?

I continue to work on multiple areas of my game and conditioning. Getting older is not an issue for me right now as much as managing my time to raise my son and continue to put the work in the summers to get better. Daddy daycare was open from 9-1 this summer while my wife finishes up her schooling.

When you look at the Beko BBL offseason transactions, how satisfyed are you with the new players that have arrived in the league? What players are you looking forward to playing against?

I feel like the league continues to get stronger, the clubs are professional and the games are a high level product for the fans, I am happy to be a part for another season. Im looking forward to seeing Bonn’s new guys, Kyle Weems played in the MVC and Pat Ewing Jr. is a part of Active Faith sports brand I am involved in.

After the incredible last season in Ulm, how difficult will this season be for the team? The Beko BBL is always getting more competitive and teams will be gunning for ratiopharm Ulm.

I am glad that we were able to bring back the majority of our team and keep some continuity from last season. We know that we are not going to surprise any teams this season, they will be ready for us.

The team kept a majority of the team and added some important components to the team. What is the season goal for the team?

We will establish the season’s goals when we meet next week with all the players. I know that we will add new goals for the European competition. With all the success we had last year, I know that no one on that team was satisfied we got the silver medal.

The team has gotten German national player Philipp Schwethelm on loan from Bayern Munich. What do you like most about his game?

He did not have much of a role with Bayern last year but we have seen him be an impact player in this league previous years. I think that he will be a big help for our team with his shooting, passing and basketball IQ.

How excited are you to be playing with Allan Roy? You will be playing with an ex Boston Celtic. What will be his best quality?

I remember him playing at Villanova when I was in school. He was a great scorer and player for them. Im sure that he will fit in with our team and bring a lot of high level experience.

Each player on ratiopharm Ulm had their special role last season. There were no egos mostly and everyone did their job. You were consistent. Would you like anything to change in your role this season?

That was a big key to our success, everyone putting winning first. That is something that the new additions must commit to as well for us to continue building on last year. I want to continue to help our team win, whatever that means I can do. Consistency is something that I want to continue to bring, knowing the team can rely on me every game.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg have lost key parts to their winning team while Bayern Munich really has stocked up for this season. Could FC Bayern Munich win it all this season?

I think that there are numerous teams solid on paper, it is a long season and lots can happen. I like the team ULM put together though.

Since playing in the Beko BBL, have you ever seen a better front court than Jared Homan, Chevon Troutman, Lawrence Roberts and Jan Jagla? How much are you looking forward to these challenges?

That was big for them to bring back Troutman and Homan, they were big parts of their attack last year. Having Roberts as well just adds to the strength of their front court. It will be a fun game with Bryant, Nankivil, Theis and myself battling those guys.

Who would beat whom in their prime? The Dream team or team USA 2012?

That is the question that everyone wants to know but no one ever will. People say that this team wasn’t as good because they didn’t blow everyone out like the 92 team did. The game is so much different now, that 92 team inspired the world to play basketball and they got better. The best player the 92 team played against was a young Toni Kukoc? These guys are playing teams with 5-6 NBA players on them, All Stars, NBA champions. Im like both teams, 92 team has size advantage with Dwight and Bosh not playing this year.

What was your favorite Olympic moment?

Men’s Basketball taking the gold. I was completely amazed with gymnastics, those people are crazy athletic.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Hear no evil, see no evil. 80s movie with Richard Pryor, recommended by my good friend Jay Thomas.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

The  great thing about pre season basketball is that Beko BBL teams have the chance to test against a wide spectrum of teams coming from Japan, the Pro A, Holland or even France as the Fraport Skyliners are doing this season. Another advantage is getting reacquainted  with former players like Fabian Franke or former big German talent like Marco Buljevic who started his basketball career up the A5 in Giessen. Fraport Sklyiner fans didn´t only have the chance to see shot specialist Marco Buljevic show his straight forward parked stance in the corner, but also observe Fabian Franke again  who returned back to his living room in the BCM with PRO A team ETB Wohnbau baskets Essen to duel against the Fraport Skyliners. Franke played three seasons in Frankfurt playing a total of 29 games in the Beko BBL mostly getting garbage time and also having a double license for the PRO B team playing a total of 53 games and being the third best German scorer last season in the PRO B. Franke will always be remembered for being able to completely fill up the stat sheet in the Pro B, decline at times to take open shots in the Beko BBL, his 31 point explosion against BG Illertal last season and last season for his growing GQ looks and fancy outfits which easily would have given him best dressed Skyliner if there had ever been an award like that.  After a strong first half by the Fraport Skyliners, the ETB Wohnbau Baskets came back in the third quarter to cut the lead down to five points, but were unable to regain the lead as they ran out of gas. Franke was a central figure in the team and Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte was thrilled to see his ex teammate again. “I was happy to see him again. I had 1-2 flashbacks of how he played with us when he was able to defend me well. However I was able to block him once. Fabian is a great guy and friend”, stressed Paderborn native Marius Nolte. Franke was unable to remember the Nolte block. “It was like  a home coming for me. I got a warm welcome and it was cool to see all the people again. I don´t know if Marius blocked me, because I wanted to pass the ball, but he did a good job on me”, added Fabian Franke.  Ex teammate Devin Gibson was also happy to see his ex teammate. “I spoke to him before the game and it was nice. This was a good test, because we will also play against Jimmy Mckinney and Jacob Burtschi this season.  I think that he will be a solid player for them and produce much”, commented Texas native Devin Gibson. “It was nice coming back to the BCM. I played here from 2006-2008 with Giessen. My dad comes from Hessen and I really like this training facility”, said 2009 Beko BBL champion with Oldenburg Marco Buljevic.

After the more than convincing 100-57 win against PRO A team BV Chemnitz 72 hours ago, where the Fraport Skyliners stifled the team from the former eastern Germany often with their press defense not allowing them to inbound the ball, the team had their second meeting with a PRO A team with the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen where they didn´t have as an easy time. They had a big second quarter, fell asleep in the third quarter like a overblown black bear after a tasty feast of berries, but closed out the game in the fourth quarter with big shots from the Jones gang, Danilo Barthel and Konstantin Klein.  “We played a good first half defensively. Essen came back in the  second half and played well. The result may be a bit too high from their stand point. We weren´t able to keep up the tempo in the third quarter which gave Essen the chance to come back. Chemnitz didn´t come to terms with our pressure, but Essen did. Essen should be able to be a top team in the PRO A”, stressed Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen played with a lot of heart, but in the end were a bit overwhelmed by the higher class of players that the Fraport Skyliners have. “We played hard for 40 minutes. We had some mental lapses and weren´t always as well organized when they pressed. We were in game and we wanted to win and we showed that we could hang with a Beko BBL team. The way we were able to play them will help our confidence”, stated Orlando, Florida native Rickey Claitt.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game without former German national player Johannes Herber who was out with the flu. The team also had a void at the forward position as Alexander Franklin had been cut recently and the team was still without new power forward Dion Dowell who was expected to arrive in Frankfurt on Saturday. The Fraport Skyliners had young German Konstantin Klein in the starting lineup and right away produced as he made a nice pump fake on American 198cm forward Terren Harbut and scored inside off the glass as if he was a very undersized power forward.  Essen made a lot of pressure on offense and had for a stretch the lead, but always had to contend with the full court press of Frankfurt. Fabian Franke gave Essen its first lead with a three pointer. German forward Danilo Barthel who had a long shooting day from the parking lot at 2/9, but had better luck from the field as he gave Frankfurt the lead back 7-4 as he scored on a runner and slammed home a beautiful Konstantin Klein bounce pass.  Essen then went on a 5-0 run as Marco Buljevic hit a brilliant fade away jumper in the corner over Klein and American Logan Stutz nailed a three pointer as the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen led 11-7. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t let this little burst of energy from Essen startle them as they closed out the first quarter 8-4 to dead lock the game at 15-15. Frankfurt displayed some crisp ball movement and the guy who you want to get the last shot is a guy like Anthony Jones who is parked behind the three point line and always ready to release a bomb hitting. After a Joey Henley tap in, Klein drew a foul making two free throws and ended the first quarter scoring on a lay in getting a quick feed from German Johannes Vogtmann showing once again his masterful passing qualities.

Both teams got going slowly in the second quarter as no team was able to get anything going inside and rather focusing on finding that open shot from the mid distance or from outside. The Fraport Skyliners then finally scored inside as Devin Gibson did his typical quick steps finding the open space and then serving Marius Nolte cusine in form of a basketball with a high lob that he easily put home. Essen then got a timely three pointer from Lexington, Kentucky native Terren Harbut who has played his entire career in Germany for teams like Paderborn, Herten and BV Chemnitz. The Fraport Skyliners led 18-17, but would now open up the game as they went on a 26-7 run to close out the second quarter leading 44-25. Danilo Barthel started the scoring attack with six straight points as he scored inside using his wit and waiting for the defender to commit and fall on him as he was in the air making the lay up and one and then nailed a three pointer with his typical high rainbow. Essen trailed 24-17. After a Marco Buljevic three pointer, the Skyliners hit three consecutive three pointers often on the transition as the club continued to go make the game fast after each defensive rebound. Johnathon Jones hit and PRO B player Larry Wright connected twice as the Fraport Skyliners led comfortably 37-20. The Fraport Skyliners continued to hit at a high percentage as Vogtmann made a mid distance jumper , Johnathon Jones read a pass perfectly jumped in front tipped the ball away and went coast to coast with a one handed dunk. Anthony Jones closed out the scoring in the second quarter making an open three pointer. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen went into half time with a lot to talk about as they trailed 44-25. “We had very good defensive pressure in the second quarter. We had better ball movement and started to make more shots”, stressed Fraport Skyliners guard Devin Gibson. “We weren´t getting into the passing lanes, gave up too many offensive rebounds and just let them play. If that happens you can quickly be down by 20 points”, added Marco Buljevic. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 42% from the field and 40% from outside while the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen shot 37% from the field and 36% from outside. Frankfurt had the 20-15 edge, but only three turnovers while Essen had 11 turnovers.

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen kept the basketball adage alive that basketball is a game of runs and set forth theirs as they battled back into the game. Essen did start off fast going on a mini 4-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 44-29 started to push the ball inside more with success. 196cm forward Joey Henley who is an avid Dallas Cowboys fan scored hard over Nolte and Buljevic showed that he wont shy from going inside scoring over Klein. It seemed like Essen might be in the middle of their run, but instead was put on hold as the Fraport Skyliners were able to bounce back on a potent 10-0 run to extend their lead to 54-29. Nolte started the run finding some daylight in the lane getting a pass from Gibson. Anthony Jones then responded hit twice from the field and from the corner for three getting a four point play. Whenever the shot clock is down or the Skyliners seem to be in trouble, it is the American who hits the big shots. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets had had enough and now made the game interesting again going on a 17-4 run to close out the third quarter trailing only 58-49. Essen got back into the game playing a clever inside out game. Buljevic started the run with a three pointer. Essen then got two back to back buckets inside as 24 year old 205cm forward Logan Stutz that played for Leitershofen and in Austria last season scored over Nolte and Henley made a reverse lay up who was very active all day long on the boards. Henley then scored again making  a guard type play coming from the second row in the lane and stepping in front of a pass and going coast to coast for the basket. PRO B player Tim Oldenburg then hit a mid distance jumper from the corner as Frankfurt still led 58-38. Essen closed out the third quarter with a 11-0 run to trail 58-49. Stutz hit from outside, German Carsten Bartels scored inside and Harbut scored from the top of the key. “We played better defense, got in the passing lanes, got steals and had better ball movement”, stressed Essen guard Marco Buljevic. “We were a bit winded in the third quarter. We were getting the shots that we wanted, but they just weren´t falling”, added Devin Gibson.

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets still had energy and kept their 11-0 run from the end of the third quarter going as 21 year old 201cm forward and ex LTi Giessen 46er Roben Christen scored inside and Stutz scored easily inside as the Fraport Skyliners had little defensive pressure or body containment in the paint as the PRO A team was suddenly only down 58-53. However the Fraport Skyliners finally stopped their scoring drought of almost seven minutes dating back to the last bucket from Tim Oldenburg in the third quarter by getting production from captain Marius Nolte who got a lob pass from Gibson. Gibson then nailed a jumper as Essen trailed 62-53. However Essen still  was clawing their way back as Harbut hit a free throw and Rickey Claitt hit a fade way as Essen trailed only 62-56. However the Fraport Skyliners had had enough now and simply were still too overpowering even so late in the game closing out the game with a forceful 16-4 run. Barthel nailed a three pointer to help improve his poor shooting day from down town and Anthony Jones lit up the scoreboard again. Henley then grabbed an offensive rebound and got a put back as Essen trailed only 68-58. After a Johnathon Jones three pointer at the shot clock buzzer, it was Konstantin Klein that ultimately that brought Essen back to reality with two consecutive three pointers to lead 77-60. Klein closed out the game with a free throw only after Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin had raced over to the referee to get the free throws as most everyone had seen the game as over. “We were more focused in the fourth quarter and increased our defensive pressure”, stressed Devin Gibson. “One could see the big difference in individual class that there is between both teams in the fourth quarter. We defended the pick and roll very bad and Frankfurt was always able to penetrate into the heart of our defense. We didn´t have the strength to come back down by so much”, added Marco Buljevic.

The Skyliners were led by Danilo Barthel with 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. Anthony Jones added 14 points, four rebounds and three steals. Konstantin Klein produced 13 points and four assists. Johnathon Jones contributed 12 points. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen were led by Joey Henley with 16 points. Logan Stutz added 14 points and Marco Buljevic 10 points. The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen shot a tad better from the field at 44% as Frankfurt did at 42%. Frankfurt shot 38% from the three point line and Essen 37%. The Fraport Skyliners easily won the rebound battle 37-31 and had nine turnovers while Essen had 15. One player who continues to make strides is 21 year old German Konstantin Klein who scored in double figures and started at point guard and is blessed with a healthy confidence level. He already has the respect of his teammates as training camp isn´t even a month old. “Konstantin Klein is a great player. He can really do it all. He really has no weakness. He can shoot, is a great passer and plays hard defense. He will be a great player”, warned Skyliner teammate Devin Gibson.  As time goes by, the public and players will know who Konstantin Klein is. “I didn´t know who he was before today, but I like his game. He plays with a lot of snap. He is very aggressive on the ball defense and gets in the passing lanes. He also showed that he is a good ecision maker on offense. I sensed that he isn´t afraid of nayone. He has a lot of potential. He also shows not too much respect of the opponent in a positive way”, stressed Marco Buljevic. The Fraport Skyliners test against Dutch team Nijmegen today.

Don Beck has been a professional basketball coach for 34 years. He started his coaching career in 1978 for Santa Barbara College. After that he got further experience coaching Bentley College, Rutgers University, and Fresno State University. He came to Europe in 1992 to coach Sunair Oostende (Belgium). He then spent 9 very successful seasons with TBB Trier reaching four cup finals and winning two. He then coached the EWE Baskets Oldenburg from 2002-2007. In 2007-2008, he coached  Euphony Bree (Belgium-D1). The next season he coached  Euphony Bree (Belgium-D1), in Jan.’09 hired by Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). In 2009-2010, he coached  Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie). He has been head coach of Toyota Alvark (Japan-JBL) since 2010. He spoke to German Hoops during his three team tour of Germany while he was in Frankfurt.

Thanks for talking to eurobasket Don. It has been five years since your last engagement in Germany with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What do you miss the most on and off the court in Germany?

I still live in GermanyWhen I am not working in Japan I spend my off season in Trier and the States. I can´t really say that I miss anything, because I am always back in Trier. I have learned to drink white wine which the Mosel region is famous for.

You had coached many years in Trier and Oldenburg and since have coached in Belgium, Holland and Japan. Did you have enough of the German basketball scene? Did you still have offers from German teams in the last years? Why did you go to Japan?

I have been blessed of having my best years as a coach before coming to Japan. I won two cups with TBB Trier and went to four finals. We played international and went to the playoffs. With Bree we finished in first place and went to the finals. Then I went to Holland and coached Den Bosch. We reached the final and lost a seven game playoff series to Amsterdam who had kicked out Oldenburg from international play the season they won the BBL title. Amsterdam had a real good team that year. The next season the team made changes and we weren´t as successful and I had to go. I then had the choice between Mons and Toyota Alvark. It was a tough decision, but Japan was a great opportunity. Everything is done so professional and it’s the best training facility I have ever seen. Toyota is a great sponsor and it was just a great opportunity where I couldn´t say no

You coached young players Doron Perkins and D or Fischer in 2006. How happy are you how much they have progressed and how much were you able to help in their development as players?

That last year in Oldenburg was very unstable with a lot of mistrust. I am glad that I had Fischer for a whole year. He really needed that and he was already a good player at the time. Perkins came in the middle of the season and was a very unique player. He was athletic, could get to the rim and could be as good a defender as anyone when he wanted to. After I left I took Fischer and Perkins to Bree. They continued to play well and their stock went up. Soon after they would play for Macabbi Tel Aviv. I helped them, but I had good assistants who helped as well. The programs in Oldenburg and Bree really benefited their development.

You gave a young Heiko Schaffartzik a chance in 2006 after he had been with Giessen and in Nurnberg. He had a very bad shooting year with Oldenburg, but how sure were you in that season that the German could become  a top German team national player?

I was sure from the start that Heiko was a way better player than what he was showing. His minutes fell as Perkins was brought in. But I am not surprised with how his development has gone. Already in Oldenburg, Heiko always played hard with big balls. He was great to coach and was never afraid of anyone. I would of kept him in Oldenburg if I would have stayed.

You also coached very talented Desmond Penigar for two seasons who had played briefly with the Orlando Magic. After an injury, Penigar came back to have strong seasons in Austria and last year in Lebanon. Why wasn´t Penigar able to develop into a Eurocup/euroleague type of player?

I think his knee injury has kept him from that. He was never 100% healthy, but I remember he had a great playoff series against Alba Berlin. We should have moved him in his second season. He had a great attitude and was just a tough kid. He probably played 5-6 years more than he should of just because his knee was never correct. However the way he has held up, I wouldn´t be surprised if he plays until 40, because he is that special.

After you left in 2007, Predrag Krunic came in and two years later he won the German Beko BBL title. Players come and go each year, but did you build something in Oldenburg that Krunich ended with winning the title?

I can´t take any credit away from him, because he did it all on his own. Working in Oldenburg was good for me with Dr Brinker the chairmen of the EWE. Before I came, Oldenburg was never higher than 13. He was a big reason for our success. he had great vision and gave me great support. They wanted a team that would be competitive and we lived up to that when I was there. I am sorry that we could never win a cup or get deeper in the playoffs. When Krunic came, he got full reigns of the team. I never had that. We never had a training camp or plane. We never had the budget that he had. I played the path for him, but he simply demanded the things that I didn´t. I congratulate him for winning the title in 2009. It is so hard to win a title as it is

What is a strength in your coaching style that isn´t always recognized right away?

In my last five years, all my teams have been top 1 & 2 in rebounding and defense. We already had good defense in Oldenburg and was able to keep it in Bree and now in Japan. In the Japan league there are 11 categories and Toyota Alvark is #1 in nine categories and #2 in the other 2. I implemented a transition in Bree and it has carried over to Japan as well. I am very proud as well of the success of the offense as it has also been #1 with the defense in Japan which is unheard of.

How would you describe the style in the J-league? Was it difficult to adjust to this style coming from Europe? Did you have to make any changes?

There are two leagues in japan. The JBL where we play. It has 8 teams. It is the better league and most prestigious. We can carry only two foreigners and only one can be on the floor and never at the same time. The other league is the BJ league which can have 3-4 foreigners. The difference to the BBL is that at the 4-5 position there is no difference. But at the 1-3 positions, the players in Japan are shorter and less athletic

Toyota Alvark won the double last season. Of course it was a team effort, but where would the team have been without Jeff Gibbs?

Gibbs has been a good addition. We are very balanced and have no stars. We don´t have the best 1,2,3 players or even 5 man Japanese player, but the difference is that the team plays together. They just all play very well. On any given night Gibbs or Ricci can have a double double even though they split the minutes and never play more than 20-22 minutes.

You have coached many great players in your career, but where would you rate a Jeff Gibbs?

Gibbs is very unique. He just brings so much to the court. He can run the break, can pass and just has a great basketball mind. He reads the ball movement well and can shoot from outside. The opponent usually don´t take him serious when they see him play. When he gets going, he is a 6.11 player. He always creates havoc for the opponent with match up problems. I love his wisdom and is one of the best players that I have coached in the area of him doing what I want him to do. When he wants to make an impact then he is Mr incredible.

Toyota Alvark is on a German city tour playing in Frankfurt, Trier and Munich. How important is this visit bringing exposure to Japanese basketball in Europe?

We think it is important that our players see how the European style works. We want people here to see that we do play a different style but are still competitive. We played very well against TBB Trier and FC Bayern Munich. It was important that our players are exposed to the defensive intensity and bigger wing players in Germany. All the teams are physical in the BBL and playing here will help us in our quest to defend our title in Japan.

You will be back in Trier playing the team of Henrik Rodl. Do you remember where you were in 1993 when North Carolina beat Michigan in the NCAA final?

I was at the game. It is always great to watch ACC basketball and North Carolina is one of the best programs in the NCAA. Rodl playing in the NCAA was a big step for young German kids going to the NCAA. Last season there was something like 9 Germans playing in the NCAA. It seems to be growing each year.

What is your sweetest memory of your coaching days in Trier?

There are so many. Of course being in one place for 9 years in unbelievable. Trier is just a great place with great fan support. The players always feel comfortable there. We had the lowest budget, but still reached 4 cup finals. The cup wins were a great memory as was the wins against Alba Berlin. I don´t support the BBL now how the cup is set up. I think that it is wrong. In the old format there was always one team that wasn´t on the radar and snuck into the Top 4. With the new format, that surprise effect is taken away of a sleeper getting in.

You also had some nice battles against Frankfurt. I remember Malick Badiane kicking a chair in Oldenburg in 2005. What is your fondest memory playing against Frankfurt? Do you remember the game against Frankfurt on the last game day in 2006?

We always had fun games against Frankfurt. I remember some good wins against Gordie Herbert. Gunnar Wobke has done  a good job there and was always a forward thinking guy of how to build teams. I don´t remember that game, but it was a good win for Frankfurt.

You also coach against Bayern Munich. They have moved up to the Beko BBL and have enriched the German basketball name. How excited were you about playing the most famous German sports team and will you buy dinner for the team if they win?

I have always tried to promote basketball with needing them in a big city. It is very important that FC Bayern Munich is in the BBL now. Perhaps with this branding it could happen in the future in cities like Hamburg or Dortmund. When FC Bayern Munich plays basketball, then they are still FC Bayern Munich the name and that is very important. They have one of the best coaches with Dirk Bauermann who has had numerous success. They might not have been that successful last season, but I am sure that they will challenge for the title this season.

Who would win in their prime, the Dream team of Team USA 2012?

I am over 50 and I can only go with the Dream team. The Dream team was a special team like the first man on the moon. The 2012 was a great team too, but the Dream Team was one of a kind

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The French film Ziemlich beste Freunde

Thanks Don for the chat.

Kevin Hamilton is a 28 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York that is playing his second season for BBC Bayreuth. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2(2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1(6.4apg), Steals-1(2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing  35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3(6.3apg), Steals-2(1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. In 2009-2010, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3(5.4apg), Steals-2(1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. In 2010-2011 for Braunschweig, he averaged 9,oppg, 4,1rpg and 4,3apg. Last season, he was injured and was only able to play  4 games: 8.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg. This past summer he played in Puerto Rico for  Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN) playing  23 games: 7.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-4(1.6spg), FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 61.5%. He spoke to German Hoops about BBC Bayreuth and his friend Alexander Franklin of the Fraport Skyliners.

After missing most of last season, you came back ready to go, but now will miss another 1-2 months. How are you coping with another hardship in your basketball career?

It always sucks when you have to miss time with your team but I am optimistic that I will be back soon, and 100 percent healthy.

Will it be more beneficial to get a point guard for the short term or give the reigns to Simon Schmitz and Nate Rhonert?

I think so, it gives them a lot of reps at the position and some experience that will help us during the season.

Despite being without Jason Cain, Nate Rhonert and your self, BBC Bayreuth gave a good figure in the test game against Wurzburg. How pleased have you been with the development of the team in preseason. What is the strength of the team?

I have been pretty pleased. Like any team at this phase we have a lot to work on but we work hard and play together which are the most important things to accomplish in preseason in my opinion so I think the rest will fall into place.

I see the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg as a top 4 team despite the increased competitive nature of the Beko BBL? Where do you see this team and can they build on their success of last season?
They will definitely be a good team and they have a lot of experienced winners so I expect them to be tough, but anything is possible in this league.

Germans Nicolai Simon and Simon Schmitz were one and two in scoring for BBC Bayreuth in an early test game. Simon is still young, but has been around for ages starting in the Erdgas Ehingen program. How have you been helping him in practice?

Well I have seen Simon get progressively better these past two years and this year he has gotten stronger and much more aggressive. I think he is going to impress a lot of people. He has always been a hard worker and smart player and I think he will be able to establish himself as a top young German talent this year. Nicolai has been a player I have always been impressed with. He is a great shooter and also has a great work ethic. I have enjoyed the first few weeks getting to know him and I am happy he is on my team this year !

It seems a lot of talk as centered around what Gary Mcghee will be able to do or a Jason Cain having a big year, but quietly Joe Trapani has been playing his game with success. Who does his game remind you of and will he be bale to adapt to the high level of the Beko BBL?

I think Joe is going to have a big season for us. He causes a lot of problems at the 4 and 3 positions for other clubs and plays hard all the time. He is too fast and clever for most 4’s and too strong and athletic for people at the 3 position. Joe is also a great guy who is hungry to win so I am excited to suit up with him this year as well.

How fortunate are the Fraport Skyliners to have your friend Alexander Franklin on their roster?

Very fortunate , people in Frankfurt have a player to be excited about.

Recently the Fraport Skyliners gave your friend Alexander Franklin a try out contract. Knowing him well as a player and person how confident are you that he will be on the Skyliner roster on October 3rd when the season starts?

Alex Franklin will be a Fraport Skyliner all season. There are not many people in this league who can match up with him athletically and physically. He is going to bring a lot of energy and excitement to Frankfurt.

Franklin describes himself as very versatile on the court. If you had to choose one aspect of his game that will help the Fraport Skyliners most what would it be?

It is hard to pin point one thing. The obvious answer would be his athleticism and his strength. But I really appreciated his composure and decision making as a young player. He was a big if not the biggest reason for our team in Puerto Rico’s championship run.

You played this past summer with Alexander Franklin at Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN). What was the most amazing thing that you saw him do on the court?

A dunk in the semi-finals…..Ridiculous !

Who would win a game in their prime the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

In their prime the Dream team

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Megamind.

Thanks Kev for the chat.

A year ago, the Fraport Skyliners had a taste of NBA flair joining them with 2012 Milwaukee Bucks Draft Pick Jon Leuer with the always present mischeovous Ferris Bueller appearance  and former NBA player Jermario Davidson who was growing a special patent on his fade away jumper from the wing and the only thing missing form him last season was a rap performance standing on the rim, but this season the Fraport Skyliners have swapped NBA taste with try-out taste in the likes of Anthony Jones, Johnahon Jones and Alexander Franklin. In the first pre season exhibition game, the Fraport Skyliners met 2012 Japanese league champion Toyota Alvark at Basketball city and two familiar faces returned back to face off with Jeff Gibbs who was known as being the smallest center in the Beko BBL often terrorizing players 20 centimeters taller than him and always having that competitive smile dueling with the smilers like Immanuel Mcelroy and Michael Hakim Jordan for the widest one and head coach Don Beck who coached 9 years in Trier winning two cup titles and coaching five years in Oldenburg helping form Euroleague players like D or Fischer and Doron Perkins. The Fraport Skyliners who had to play without an injured Quantez Roberston who broke his left ring finger last week and are still seeking a center,  gave a solid effort at the training facility, but had very little competition with the Japanese champion Toyota Alvark. “This was the worst game we have played in two years. We shot the ball very bad tonight. I think that we were a bit tired and that it was the end of our Germany trip. I wasn´t satisfied with our energy level. We had an off day. We are really a better team than this”, stressed Toyota Alvark head coach Don Beck. The Fraport Skyliners dominated the game and played a solid defensive game in the traditional manner of MUli Katzurin showing a forceful full press defense. Johannes Herber played an exceptional game and was pleased that the team could finally get their exhibition schedule started. “It was the first game and we were all a bit tired, but it was good to play against another team. We were able to see how we function as a unit and see where each player can use their strength. Toyota Alvark wasn´t as competitive and we lost a little concentration at times. We had problems at the rebound, but all in all it was a good performance”, stressed Fraport Skyliner shooring guard Johannes Herber.

Fraport Skyliner fans also saw the return of Mr incredible Jeff Gibbs who played in the Beko BBL from 2006-2010 leading the league in rebounding three years in a row. He is starting his third season with Toyota Alvark and was happy to see some familiar faces. “It is always nice to come back to my second home Germany. It is also nice to see familiar faces like the my ex teammate the warrior Emeke Erege”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Try-out player Alex Franklin was able to take some glimpses of how the 188cm center Ohio Native works under the basket. “Gibbs was a beast that was a presence down low and  really knew how to use his body well”, said ex Siena player Alexander Franklin. Gibbs showed that he is an expert of filling up the stat sheet finishing with 6 points, 13 boards, and three blocks and was a menace on the offensive glass hauling down seven offensive rebounds. Fraport Sklyiners captain Marius Nolte had his battles down low with him as well as in the past in the Beko BBL and was still amazed of his game. “He is 32, but it is still amazing how he grabs rebounds. We had good duels with Paderborn-Ulm. I am happy that he hasn´t lost his game, because he is a very nice guy”, commented Marius Nolte. Johannes Herber had the hot hand through out the game and the only thing missing was grabbing a lounge chair and watching Mr incredible Jeff Gibbs operate. “I was a bit surprised that he didn´t start, but he was still their best player. It is fascinating how he fishes in the rebounds. It is really fun to watch”, expressed Ex Alba Berlin player Johannes Herber.

Before the game commenced one could see how anxious the fans were for the game to start, but also the players. Johannes Herber powered home a thunderous dunk getting a smile from injured Quantez Robertson something he could show more in games this season. On the opposing side, Jeff Gibbs was getting ready and already had his focused game face on as if he was about to play in  a game seven and Skyliner legend Pascal Roller was walking around with his kids and a ball in one hand as if he was looking for some shorts and sneakers to come in off the bench. When the game did start, it was very lopsided as the Fraport Skyliners got off to a fast start leading 8-0. Toyota Alvark seemed surprised by the Skyliners physical play and rude full court press and couldn´t hit a shot off the side of the barn. The Fraport Skyliners quickly got their offensive engine revved as Marius Nolte scored inside twice and Anthony Jones getting a quick steal and getting an easy transition bucket. The Frankfurt defense continued to wreck havoc as they got another steal and Michigan native Johnathon Jones scored on the fast break. Frankfurt led 8-0. “We got off to a slow start didn´t bring the energy that we should of. They played tough full court press and our shots didn´t fall. They plan outworked us”, stated ex Otterbein player Jeff Gibbs.  Toyota Alvark finally got on the score board as it almost took them six minutes to get their first points as Takeuchi Kosuke hit a mid distance jumper. Johannes Herber hit a three pointer from the top of the key as the Skyliner offense was giving the best Japanese defense problems. Toyota Alvark was #1 in 9 of 11 Defensive categories in the JBL league last season. However even when the floor was filled with PRO B players, Toyota Alvark couldn´t really find an answer against the Skyliner pressure. Perhaps the prettiest bucket in the first quarter was a give and go between Young guns Konsatntin Klein and Johannes Vogtmann as Klein finished with an easy layup. Toyota Alvark hit two shots from down town in the last two minutes from Matsui Keijuro and Kumagai Takayuki. Konstan Klein showed his quickness with a lay up getting a pretty feed from Devin Gibson as the Fraport Skyliners led 18-10 after one quarter. “Frankfurt dominated and defended well. Frankfurt was very active and did a good job not letting Toyota Alvark get inside”, stressed ex ratiopharm Ulm player Emeke Erege.

The Fraport Skyliners got off to a quick start once again in the second quarter going on a 8-2 run to lead 26-12. Anthony Jones got hot making a fade away jumper and then showing his scoring instinct hitting a three pointer. However this quick run didn´t impress Toyota Alvark as they responded with their own 8-0 to cut the Skyliner lead to 26-20. Toyota Alvark finally got some points inside as Phillip Ricci scored over Nolte, three point specialist Okada Yusuke who shot 40% from the parking lot last season in the JBL league hit from down town, Arao Gaku hit a runner from the corner and Skyliner Alexander Franklin had some misfortune tipping in a ball into his own basket. The second quarter continued to be a quarter of runs as now it was time for the Fraport Skyliners to shine again as went into half time with a 11-2 run and leading very comfortably 37-22. In the past when the Fraport Skyliners needed rapid points to get out of a dilemma fast, it would be a Dashaun Wood two seasons ago or Jermario Davidson last season and against Toyota Alvark it was ex German national player Johannes Herber who showed his leadership qualities  making a three pointer and scoring inside. Herber also made free throws as did Anthony Jones. Alexander Franklin might only have produced two points, but it was a very beautiful play as he scored inside in traffic. “Frankfurt continued to execute while Toyota Alvark was hitting some three pointers, but still missed many easy lay ups. Frankfurt was focusing a lot on Jeff Gibbs and he also missed some easy baskets”, added Jeff Gibbs friend Emeke Erege. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 39% from the field and 23% from outside as Toyota Alvark was shooting 20% from the field and 17% from outside. Toyota Alvark had the slim 24-23 rebound edge and six turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners had only three turnovers.

In the third quarter, The Fraport Skyliners were able to hold their lead, but in the latter half of the third quarter let Toyota Alvark back into the game. Muli Katzurin continued to experiment playing his whole bench especially the try out players and his PRO B wunder kinder. Toyota Alvark jumped on a mini 4-0 run cutting the Fraport Skyliners lead to 37-26 as Jeff Gibbs scored inside and Shonaka Takeki scored from the corner. Anthony Jones then showed some more brilliance scoring in bunches as he nailed a jumper in the corner and then read a Toyota Alvark pass and jumped in stealing the ball and going coast to coast for an  easy lay up. Herber then hit a jumper as the Fraport Skyliners led 44-26. Matsui Keijuro then hit a jumper. Gibbs then scored in his typical manner scooting inside for the position getting the ball under the basket making seemingly 1000 fakes and then hitting  a hook shot over the out stretched hand of Herber. Johannes Vogtmann then scored inside getting a super no look pass from Devin Gibson. The 19 year old 211cm center from the former East Germany played a spirited game scoring three points, getting nine rebounds and blocking Jeff Gibbs. “I liked the play of Vogtmann. He will develop if he continues to work hard”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Gibbs showed his rebound power grabbing a rebound over Vogtmann who is 22 centimeters taller, but knows exactly who was the tallest player he surprised by shooting over. “I shot over Charles Shackleford. He was an ex NBA seven footer”, smiled Jeff Gibbs. After Takeki and Herber exchanged baskets, the Fraport Skyliners still led 49-33. Toyota Alvark closed out the third quarter strong trailing only 59-47. Deadly three point specialist Okada Yusuke hit two three pointers. Herber helped the Skyliners keep the cushion with a three pointer and steal where he was off to the races scoring a transition hoop. Konstatin Klein made the last basket as the buzzer sounded on a fast break play as the Fraport Skyliners led 59-47. “We finally played the way that we should and play our style which is our defensive intensity. We also picked up our shooting”, added Jeff Gibbs. “They came back because they are a good team and good teams make runs which we couldn´t counter”, said Fraport Skyliner forward Alexander Franklin.

Muli Katzurin must of found the encouraging words between quarters as the Fraport Skyliners jumped out on a 14-2 lead to decide the game as they led 73-49 in the fourth quarter. After Konstantin Klein hit a three pointer that got a lucky BCM  role, Phillip Ricci countered with a lay in. After a Vogtmann block on Gibbs, it was Anthony Jones who continued to fight for a contract setting the tone in the fourth quarter. He really showed how versatile he can be even though he is known for being able to hit from anywhere on the floor. He started with a clever pump fake in the corner and then dashing to the basket with a lay in which no Toyota Alvark big could pick up. He then timed a perfect ally-op pass to Danilo Barthel who shoveled the ball off the glass. Johnathon Jones then found some daylight from the wing and scoring on the penetration before it was Anthony Jones again scoring on a transition play as Johnathon Jones found him. “The Skyliners pushed it up an extra notch in the fourth quarter. Our intensity level wasn´t there.  They continued to knock down shots”, stressed Jeff Gibbs. Toyota Alvark would close out the game with a positive 9-5 run, but it was all too little too late. Danilo Barthel helped his stat line with a three pointer in the last minute as he finished with seven points and eight rebounds in 19 minutes. “One could see that the first season of Danilo helped him and he gave us exactly what we needed tonight”, stressed Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. The Fraport Skyliners were never really challenged and were consistent on defense. “We kept the defensive intensity for 40 minutes. We also executed pretty well. This was a stepping stone for us, but we still have things to work on. It is the little things that we need to improve like rotations and we got hurt on the boards”, stressed Alexander Franklin.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Anthony Jones with 23 points, six rebounds and four assists. “He is a scorer and I wasn´t surprised how well he played. I hope that there is more to come from him”, added teammate Alexander Franklin. “Anthony Jones has that feel to score. He fits into our system and team”, added Marius Nolte. Johannes Herber added 21 points. Toyota Alvark were led by Kumagai Takayuki and Matsui Keijuro with 10 points a piece. The Fraport Skyliners shot 44% from the field and 36% from the parking lot while Toyota Alvark had a rough shooting day with 33% from the field and 31% from the parking lot. The Fraport Skyliners edged Toyota Alvark on the boards 40-39 and had 14 turnovers while Toyota Alvark had 17 turnovers. It was only the first test, but captain Marius Nolte was pleased with the first result. 2It was good to play against other players. We usually have that internal competition with each other in practice. I feel that we are all working together. This win will give us a push for the next game”, added Marius Nolte.

 

Dijuan Harris is a 175cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that is starting his third professional basketball season and first with the Lti Giessen 46ers. 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.

Welcome to the LTi Giessen 46ers. You will be starting your third professional season and first in Germany afte rplaying in Finland and Turkey. What were the main reasons for coming to Germany Beko BBL league?

There were several reasons in deciding to come to Germany BBL, but the top 2 reasons were because of the competition I would see on a day in and day out basis, and The League is very well respected in Europe.

You arrived in Germany recently landing in Frankfurt which is overwhelming with its big skyline. You are from a city Charlotte, but were you disappointed when you saw the small university town of Giessen for the first time?

No, not at all, I am actually accustomed to seeing the smaller cities in Europe, my first 2 years in Europe I have been in very small towns, so this is actually bigger than the first 2, so another step in the right direction.

What is your first general impression of Germany? What are you really looking forward to on and off the court?

I am looking forward to the competition and the atmosphere on the floor, and off the floor I have become a huge football fan so hopefully I can get to a game to watch Munich play before season is out.

The Beko BBL is a step up from lower leagues in Finland and TB2L Turkey. How ready are you for this challenge and how sure are you that you can step it up at this level?

Its nothing new to me, everybody everywhere put on their shirt and shoes just like I do, and I have been playing against the best since high school, and this is nothing different. Yes, it is a step up in competition, but I feel Like I can compete with the best of them, and I was just looking for an opportunity, and now I have it and I know ill make the best of it. I feel I will have a productive year, individually, and as a team. I am confident in my abilities, and when you work at your craft and you put the time and hard work in you know you ready for the big stage. I work with vets who been there and done what im trying to do such as TERELL MCINTYRE, VINCENT GRIER, ANTHONY MORROW, JUNIOR HARRINGTON, these are top level guards, and a NBA Player who I have either played against or worked out with.

You are a 175cm point guard. You will be teaming up with another diminutive guard Achmadschah Zazai. Have you ever been on a team where both point guards were under 180cm? What is advantage of having two very small guards?

Last time I played with another small guard was in college, It has its advantages but also has its disadvantages, but nonetheless I feel we will be fine, and will hold our own against bigger guards no matter what. I am accustomed to seeing big guards, either guarding me, or I have to guard them. Its just what comes with the territory.

You push 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. What is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away?

My defense doesnt always get noticed, but I play very good on the ball, and passing lane defense.

What is your first impression of head coach Mathias Fischer? What has been your experience with past coaches? What is always the most important thing that you have with your coach?

He is a very open guy, and a proven winner. My experience with past coaches have been great actually, but I feel this will be best yet because he speaks English fluently. It will be a lot easier as the PG to communicate with him and speak with him about on the floor situations that may occur in the game. Its actually 2 things, one being communication and the other being trust. To be able to speak with my coach about everything, and my coach trusting me in tight and close situations, and knowing ill get us in the right set, formation, and put us in position to win.
Last season you played for Usak Universitesi Belediyespor. You were averaging 30 plus minutes in the first half of the season, but in the second half your playing time drastically got reduced. What were the reasons for this?

My minutes dropped because the rule for TB2L WAS ONLY 1 AMERICAN ON COURT AT A TIME, so when other transfer came, THEY PLAYED HIM MORE, CAUSING MY MINUTES TO DECLINE
Doneal Mack has about 20 centimeters on you. What was the most important thing that you learned from him last season?

Well he guarded me a lot during the season in practice and he helped me to get my shot off still against bigger defenders, in 1 on 1 situations where I had to create for myself. He helped me because his length and athleticisim will bother anybody who he guards.

As a rookie, you played in Finland. What was your wake up call as a rookie in that league?

My wake up call in Europe was when I was in Finland and I played my second game there I believe, and we won I had 31 pts, 6ass but only took 14 shots total, thats when a light came on and I knew I belonged and no matter what nobody said I felt like I could play with anybody giving the right opportunity.

You played at Charlotte(NCAA) breaking many records. Who was the most difficult opponent on the court that might be in the NBA now?

There were a few guys that was a tough cover in college actually, as far as size goes, I feel Greivis Vasquez was tough. He had a pretty good game, he knew how to use his size and when to use it. Played within himself and with a lot of confidence, and the other guy would be Stephen Curry because his range on his shot was not like nobody else, and he would raise up from anywhere. He used the ball screen at Davidson very well.
Who would win in their prime if they played against each other. The Dream Team or Team USA 2012?

I would love to see that game, but it would never happen so as a guess I would say Dream Team

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Friday.

Thanks Dijuan for the chat.

Ricky Harris is a 25 year old 188cm guard from Baltimore, Maryland that last season played for the s.Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 35 games: 9.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 67.0%. He scored in double figures 16 times and best point total was 25 against the LTi Giessen 46ers. He played at  Massachusetts (NCAA) from 2006-2010 playing a total of 129 NCAA games and in hiss enior year palyed  31 games: 19.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 72.9%. In 2010-2011, he started his basketball career with BC Siauliai (Lithuania-LKL): Lithuanian League: 8 games: 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 61.5%; EuroCup: 5 games: 12.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 47.6%; Baltic League: 14 games: 10.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 66.2%, in Jan.’11 moved to Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (Ukraine-Superleague): 29 games: 9.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 67.4%, then moved to B-Meg Llamados (Philippines-PBA). At Massachusetts (NCAA), he played together with ex Bonn player Tony Gaffney for two seasons and the American only has fond memories of his ex teammate. “Ricky became one of my brothers while playing together at UMASS. He was always a great teammate and very hard worker. He is one of the more potent scorers I’ve ever played with, and while playing under a coach that is not going to put a leash on him, he could really flourish into a prominent European player. Always been a lot of fun to be around, and wants to do anything to help his team and teammates succeed and as a basketball player, those are the kinds of teammates that make seasons so enjoyable, people like slick rick”, stressed Tony Gaffney. Harris spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Ricky where are you presently and how has your summer been? What was the coolist activity that you were able to do this summer?

I am currently in my hometown Baltimore Maryland, my summer has been great and all but it’s time to get back to work and I am very eager and excited to see where I will end up

September is quietly rolling around and basketball teams in Europe in general are getting their rosters in order. How surprised are you that you are still currently unsigned for the coming season

I am a bit surprised because I think that I have had 2 very good seasons this past one being my second season, I have played on a Eurocup team my first year and I have also been a part of two final four team of their respective leagues. I know that the market has been a bit slow this season but I’m just waiting on my call it will come soon I hope.

Last season, you had a pretty solid season in the German Beko BBL for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg playing 35 games: 9.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 67.0%. You got an offer, but the pay was low. Are you a bit disappointed that the club didn´t want you more?

The club wanted me back and I wanted to go back there, but we had trouble reaching an agreement and they went in another direction, that is part of the business though. I do miss them guys a lot and hopefully one day I will wear that jersey again in the future. They are a very good group of guys and the staff there now is amazing. I wish them nothing but the best this upcoming season and in years to come

The club got a superb shooting guard Jimmy Mckinney and experienced Lamont Mcintosh. Do you think that new coach Marcel Schroeder wants to go in a new direction at that position?

Marcel told me that it was mine he wanted me back. We just had a hard time finalizing a deal that both parties agreed on. Jimmy Mckinney is a very good player and I wish him well in Wurzburg, I have never seen Lamont Mccintosh play but I’m sure he will be a great asset to the team, Marcel is a great guy and I learned a lot from him this past season. He is going to be one of the best head coaches in Germany and wherever he coaches, he knows how to get the best out of his players in a good way.

In the last 12 games, you were only able to score in double figures one time in the last game of the season in Ulm. Did John Patrick lose confidence in your play?

I’m not sure if he lost confidence, but I do know what I am capable of and what I would have been able to do had I been given the the opportunity. Coach Patrick has been a winner in the Beko BBL for a long time now, and I do not question him or his decisions. I know that coach Patrick knows what type of player I am and what I can bring to a team. I wish him well in his future and upcoming opportunities.

What is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court?

I can do a lot of thing on the court penetrate pass shoot and rebound. This past season I was just labeled as a shooter but there is a lot more to my game than just shooting. I am a competitor that wants to win.

If you could sell yourself best, why would a top level team in Europe want to hire Ricky Harris?

I am a winner, a great team guy, great person on and off the court, I’m responsible and able to except my faults but most importantly willing to learn from them, I am a student of the game eager to learn more.

If you had the choice would you still like to play in the Beko BBL and why?

I would love to play in the Beko BBL. Germany in itself is a great place to play and live, the fan support is amazing whether you are at the top of the league, or in the bottom of the league you still have the support of your fans. If another German Beko BBL offer presents itself I’m sure me and my agent would be very eager and excited to work with that club.

Who was the toughest player that you had to match up against last season in the Beko BBL?

There are many good players in the German league to many to name, but if I had to say the toughest players, I would have to say practicing against my teammates everyday. John Little, Ben Jacobsen, Chester Fraizer, Chris Kramer, we went after each other so hard in practice that when it was game time it was easy to go out and play other teams toughest guys.

How does a summer work out plan look like for Ricky Harris? What do you do in the Am and PM to keep in shape and your basketball in shape?

In the morning I go to the YMCA to lift weights, at night I go to Towson University and work out on my basketball skill and conditioning

German talent Maximilan Kleber has been injured here and there the last years, but still has a lot of potential. You saw him in practice daily. How do you see his development and where will he be in 5 years?

Maxi is going to be in the NBA. He has the talent, athletic ability and skill set to be a NBA player. He is something to watch in the near future.

Who wins in their prime, the Dream team or Team USA 2012?

The Dream team would win.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Hunger Games

Thanks Ricky for the chat.