BBL

Shaking JJ Reddick’s Hand And Observing Luka Donic Work Out Were 2 Memories Of Erik Timko’s( BK Armex Decin) Time With The South Bay Lakers Before Heading To Luxemburg

Erik Timko (196-G-2002, college: Delaware) is a 196cm guard from Pennsylvania that is playing his second pro season overseas with BK Armex Decin (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he played his rookie season overseas with the at Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging (26.7ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 87.3%. He began his basketball career at Methacton high school. He then played 3 seasons at Jefferson University (NCAA2) averaging 21.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 91.0%, 22.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 89.1% and 19.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 65.3%, 3PT: 43.7%, FT: 88.0%. He then finished at the University of Delaware (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 88.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Erik for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

At the moment I am at home in the States and basketball life is going well. I am just training and working out in order to get better and prepare for the season ahead!

You played your rookie season with the Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging Score-2 (26.7ppg), 7.1rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 87.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wakeup call was really my first week out there and how quick things moved in terms of getting off my flight and practicing with the team that night and then playing my first game a week later. My teammates, coaches, and club helped me make that adjustment smoothly and were very welcoming when I arrived and helped me get settled

What kind of an experience was it coming from Division 2 and division 1 ball and totally dominating the league in Luxemburg. Was the level of play more similar to division 2 ball?

It’s hard for me to compare exactly, but I really enjoyed playing in the Luxembourg league this year and I learned a lot. Wherever you go there are different play styles and tendencies, so it was great to learn a little more about the play style in Europe and how it is similar in some ways and different.

You played a crazy and somewhat strange playoffs series against Etzella losing game 1 by 39 points and won game 2 by 3 points, but lost game 3 by 40 points. From the score one would think the team didn´t come to play in game 1 and 3. What happened in that series?

Etzella is a very good team and they showed it with the playoff run they put together and winning the championship. I feel like in those two games we didn’t shoot the ball great and we allowed them to go on big runs and especially when a team is playing at home, you can’t let them go on a big run because it’s even harder to battle back. As a team we played hard throughout and competed at a high level and gave it all we had.

How tough was losing that series especially after you had a career high as a pro scoring 46 points in the first meeting in the regular season?

It was definitely tough losing that game and seeing our season come to an end. It wasn’t tough because of the performance I had during the regular season, but it was tough because we battled hard through the season and had many ups and downs and we worked hard to get into the playoffs and be in that position, so seeing it come to an end was definitely tough.

How content were you with your game? You never averaged so many points and rebounds as an average in your previous college career.

I was grateful that I had the ability to play the way I did, but I am never content with my game. I always feel like I have more to improve upon and more to show. I know this is just the beginning and that I need to keep working hard and improving if I want to reach my goals.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I really like to watch Devin Booker play because we play similar positions and I am a big fan of how he gets to his spots on the court and his ability to create for himself and his teammates. I also like how he can score the basketball at all three levels.

You can score the ball really well and rebound and are an incredible 3 point shooter. Whatever attributes does your game have?

Some other attributes I feel my game has includes my instinct on the court and high IQ for the game, playmaking for others, scoring at all three levels, playing out of the pick and roll, versatile on defense, being a good teammate, and wanting to win.

You averaged 42% from downtown in 4 years in school at the division 2 and 1 level. But as a rookie you shot 36% from outside. How do you rate your development as a shooter now after 1 pro season under your belt?

I am confident in my ability to shoot so even though I shot 36% this year which isn’t bad, I know I can shoot in that 40% range just as I did in college and I am confident I will get back to that mark. I also don’t consider myself solely a 3pt shooter, but feel I can score in other ways and at all three levels even if my shot isn’t falling one game or the other.

How would you rate your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I feel I am a good defender, but I want to be a great defender. I can guard 1-5 and I think I am a very versatile defender and play good team defense. I want to keep improving in terms of my on ball defense along with my overall defensive intuition and being even more physical at times while still being disciplined and not fouling.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now as you continue to improve your game?

I am really working on getting stronger and more athletic as well as playing out of the pick and roll. In addition, I am working on attacking off the dribble and my change of pace as well as my footwork both in the paint and on the perimeter, along with getting a lot of shots up.

You began your rookie season with the South Bay Lakers (NBA G League). What kind of an experience was that? You were one of the final cuts. What positives could you get from that experience?

The South Bay Lakers experience was very beneficial. It was a unique experience and one that I am very grateful for. It taught me a lot about the NBA game and the pro game overall and how it differs from the college game in some ways. I felt it helped me get better because I was able to compete against high level guys and players who even had experience in the G-League prior. I felt like it prepared me and helped me grow as a player and I felt like I was able to build meaningful connections during my time there as well

You must of met some legends during your time there. Was there a player or former player where you had a meaningful meeting or interaction that you will never forget?

One interaction that I remember was meeting JJ Redick and shaking his hand, but I think just being around the Lakers team since they train in the same facility as the G-League team was a really cool memory. Being able to see some of the guys such as Luca Doncic for example, work out and get shots up was very cool and it showed me just how skilled they really are, but also what it takes to be great.

You had an incredible 3 year career at Jefferson University (NCAA2) where you won the CACC title in 2024. What kind of a player did you become there?

My time at Jefferson really helped me grow as a player. Being there taught me hard work and resilience. It also taught me many different skills that I use in my game today such as playing off two feet, reverse pivots, and much more. My coaches pushed me to be the best player I can and really helped me grow into the player I am today. My teammates are also a big reason for the player I am today. We all pushed each other on the court and supported one another

You won the 2024 CACC title. What was so special about that run?

Winning the CACC title was very special. It was special to win the title because we lost in the finals the year prior. It was also one of our main goals as a group at the beginning of the season and it was special to win a championship as a senior with the other seniors who I came in with as a Freshman

You had so many incredible scoring games scoring 30 + points in numerous games. What was your fondest moment at Jefferson University?

My fondest moment at Jefferson University was winning the 2024 CACC title game and being able to achieve that goal of ours as a group.

How vital was head coach Jimmy Reilly in your early basketball development? How did he help your game further?

Jimmy Reilly was huge in my early basketball development. He believed in me and gave me a chance to come to Jefferson and he saw in me the player I could become. He pushed me everyday in practice and held me accountable all the years I was there. He always explained the importance of hard work and resilience and being tough which are all qualities I pride myself upon. I had and still do have a great relationship with him and he is someone I could go to and talk about anything. He helped my game further by showing me how effective playing off two feet and using my pivots and ball fakes were. Which are all things I have improved and built upon since I entered college and use even more now in my game as it has grown.

You then finished at the University of Delaware (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 88.2%. You needed no adjustment period coming from the NCAA 2. What was your fondest moment there? You had some great games against Misericordia, Stony Brook and Delaware State.

My fondest moment at Delaware was our conference tournament run that we went on and being the 12 seed in the conference tournament and making it all the way to the championship game, being one win away from the NCAA tournament, before we lost to UNCW. I will never forget that run and how much joy it was to win each game and make that run in March

A How did head coach Martin Ingelsby give you that last vital push and groom and prepare you for a pro career?

Coach Ingelsby helped me grow as a player by giving me the opportunity to come to Delaware and be a part of a great program. He believed in me and allowed me to play my game and be myself. The whole staff including Coach Ingelsby was great and really helped me develop as a player in many ways.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Niels Lane?

Haha, I don’t remember specifically playing Niels 1v1 or who won if we did, but I know we worked out together multiple times and we would have great battles and push each other in practice everyday.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled in your career that reached the NBA?

Jalen Duran of the Detroit Pistons

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Thanks Erik for the chat.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz Make A Mark Led By Jayden Willliams 22 Points And Are Ready For The Regular Season Destroying PS Karlsruhe 104-74

The 2026 pre season of German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz is slowly winding down as the troops of head coach Stephan Dohrn continue to prepare for the opening tip off at home against Medi Bayreuth on September 27th. The club has preformed well in the pre season beating 3 of 4 Pro A teams with Giessen, Bochum and the Artland Dragons. The only team they lost to was newcomer ETB Miners Essen who had won the 2026 Pro B title. With exactly 8 days to go until the start of the Pro A season, Koblenz had one last test game against Pro A team PS Karlsruhe. They would play this game at the Karthause in Koblenz where they had met them exactly one year and 6 days ago where PS Karlsruhe had won 79-72. This was the last tune up for the EPG Baskets Koblenz and they wanted to go into the season with some self-confidence and did destroying PS Karlsruhe 104-74 as 2005 Euro winner and current PS Karlsruhe head coach Demond Greene sat dejected in the locker room in the fourth quarter after being ejected. The EPG Baskets Koblenz played excellent for three quarters offensively, but defensively were excellent for four quarters as they were ready for the 2026-2027 regular season. “We played a very strong first quarter showing just how unselfish we can be. We got away from that in the second quarter, but still led at the break. We came out refocused and dominated in the second half. Our biggest strength on defense was our help side and scrambling from the back side”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz guard Jayden Williams (198-F-2003, college: Dartmouth). PS Karlsruhe were missing big man Maurice Pluskota, but overall were always a step behind their opponent and were overwhelmed by the aggressive and physical defense of Koblenz. “We can´t use the absence of Pluskota as an excuse why we lost. Our energy wasn´t good and Koblenz´s energy was great. Koblenz played very tough and we didn´t respond. And that is the result on the scoreboard”, said PS Karlsruhe assistant coach Aleksander Nadfeji. “This was a great performance by the EPG Baskets. Karlsruhe showed real resilience in the third quarter, but we were so tough. We are ready for the regular season”, warned EPG Baskets Koblenz sport director Thomas Klein.

Jannis Sonnefeld at the FT line

PS Karlsruhe actually got on the scoreboard first with a lay in by ex Iowa State (NCAA) forward Robert Jones, but before anyone could really digest the first bucket, Koblenz led 9-4. Chase “the machine” Johnson from Boston College (NCAA) set the tone early on defense with his aggressive and physical 1-1 defense which led to 2 three´s by him including one on Transition while ex Bonn center Alex Moeller made a lay in. The 1-2 guard duo of Chase Johnson and ex Georgia Southern (NCAA) guard Tyren Moore both brought up the ball and gave their teammates good looks as they banged the ball inside getting lay in´s from Romanian national player Dragos Diculescu and ex Kirchheim big man Jonas Niedermanner for the 15-6 Koblenz advantage. The Koblenz offense was cooking getting all involved and they proved how lethal the offense could be without just heaving up three´s. Defensively the EPG Baskets were aggressive and physical and didn´t allow the guests into their sets and forced them to tough shots. The EPG Baskets Koblenz didn´t have any let ups on the defensive end as a Mason Kraus steal led to a Jayden Williams trey on transition. Williams then made a lay in and PS Karlsruhe trailed 23-11. Robert Jones was a menace inside and always found good position and made a lay in to trail 23-13. But Koblenz stayed strong and tough closing out the first quarter with a potent 6-0 run to lead 29-13 after 10 minutes. They continued to score in the paint as ex Manitoba (U-sports) guard Mason Kraus scored as did Moeller and ex Nurnberg center Ferenc Gille. “That was an outstanding quarter for us. Everyone played together. We were extra mobile and agile. We were ready at both ends. This was very imposing. It was fun to watch how well we played against a strong team”, stressed Thomas Klein.

Martel Williams to the hole

PS Karlsruhe had their strong phase in the second quarter outscoring the EPG Baskets 23-15, but still trailed 44-39 at half-time. The EPG Baskets Koblenz played Ok in the first two minutes continuing to execute getting an off balance shot by Chase Johnson, lay in by Moore and a massive dunk by Gille to lead 36-17. However the offense wasn´t as smooth as the first quarter as Koblenz was trying to be a bit more spectacular and had a few turnovers and weren´t sharing the ball as well anymore. Then came a rip in their game as PS Karlsruhe came back closing out the second quarter with a potent 22-8 run to trail only by 4 points at the break. The recipe for success from the guests was being more aggressive at both ends. On the offensive end, they got more to the free throw line while on the defensive end threw up sporadic presses that surprised Koblenz and tended to be very challenging that led to turnovers. PS Karlsruhe also started to hit more shots including a few three´s as ex Troy (NCAA) forward Theo Seng connected from down town as did ex Cal Baptist university guard Martel Williams while ex Euroleague guard Jason George also scored on the drive as suddenly the guests trailed 38-33. Koblenz got a big trey from center Alex Moeller for the 41-33 lead. But that didn´t stop the guests from finishing the first half strong getting free throws from Martel Williams and a trey at the buzzer from ex Rhondorf guard Killian Binafpl. “We defended well, but our offense wasn´t what we had showed in the first quarter. If we had defended bad, then they would have had the lead. We lost our rhythm with their press. We didn´t play together on offense”, stated Thomas Klein.

Chase Johnson to the rim

In the third quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz found back to their offense out scoring PS Karlsruhe 27-17 and grabbed the big lead back at 71-53. The EPG Baskets Koblenz came out with the right focus and body language trampling all over the guests stamping a cruel 12-2 run in their faces to extend their lead to 61-43. In the run, they found the three ball again getting execution from Kraus, ex Santa Clara (NCAA) center Camaron Tongue and from Moore. Diculescu also added a big dunk while ex Trier forward Jannis Sonnefeld added 3 points. PS Karlsruhe really couldn´t muster much offense except for Martel Williams who scored 9 of his teams last 10 points of the quarter. “PS Karlsruhe would have been totally lost without Martel Williams tonight”, stressed Thomas Klein. He demonstrated his three level scoring making a trey, runner and lay in. Koblenz continued to get superb production from their American rookie trio of Jayden Williams who added a trey, Tyren Moore added 5 points and Chase Johnson a lay in. Both teams were punching back and forth in the last minutes, but the guests could make no ground as they trailed by 18 points after 30 minutes. “We knew that they would try to come back. We became more aggressive going down hill and our spacing was very good”, added Jayden Williams. “The third quarter was like the first quarter. We were too soft. Koblenz didn´t let us get into our sets, Their physicality was too much for us”, commented Aleksandar Nadfeji. “Karlsruhe was stronger in the third quarter than in the first quarter. They showed real resilience. We didn´t play so well for a few minutes. But all in all it was a good quarter for us”, added Thomas Klein

Martel Williams at the FT line

How often did fans witness big leads from the EPG Baskets Koblenz starting in the fourth quarter in the last years and then see them lose the game. This pre season the EPG Baskets Koblenz have shown a different class in that they are able to close out games now and not lose their nerves like in the past. They exploded for 33 points and only allowed 21 points closing out the win strong. Ps Karlsruhe began the fourth quarter with a mini 4-2 run as diminutive guard Zac Owens who played at Emporia State made a lay in while Jones made a dunk to trail 74-57. Once again Koblenz defended aggressive and with passion and were beat by great individual plays which happen. That run didn´t faze the EPG Baskets Koblenz as they punched back with a lethal 10-2 run to lead 84-59 as the game now was more than decided. In the run was also where PS Karlsruhe head coach Demond Greene was ejected from the game. In the run, Koblenz sparkled with three from Kraus and Tongue while game top scorer Jayden Williams added free throws. Martel Williams then added back to back buckets with a nifty hook shot and a floater to trail 84-63 as his individual class was hard to stop on this night. Koblenz just kept executing with ease as Alex Moeller stepped outside again connecting on his second trey of the game while also adding a lay in while Jayden Williams continued to be super efficient making a tap in and trey for the 94-67 lead. After young German David Scheu added a lay in, the EPG Baskets Koblenz then put an exclamation mark on the win with a lethal 10-2 run to seal the victory. In the run, Tyren Moore added 7 points while Mason Kraus who had found his range on this night hit a trey. “They were checked out in the fourth quarter. They were joking saying see you in the regular season. We held our own”, stressed Jayden Williams. “We weren´t there mentally at the end. We need to learn form this game. We had some good moments though showing character and toughness, but only 20% in the game”, stated Aleksandar Nadfeji. The EPG Baskets were led by Jayden Williams with 22 points while Tyren Moore added 18 points while PS Karlsruhe was led by Martel Williams with 25 points.

2026 NBBL Champion Matheo Hermann Had Never Experienced A Better Team Chemistry In His Life Than That Team Had

Pic credit: Flotograf

Matheo Hermann (196-F-2007) is a 18 year old 196cm guard that will play for the Hakro Merlins in 2026-2027. Last season he played for Pro B team Lok Bernau averaging 2,1ppg and Alba Berlin NBBL (U-19) team averaging 11,2ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,5apg and 1,2spg. He also played ANGT twice and the last time averaged 11.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.0%. He helped Alba Berlin capture the NBBL title in 2026. He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 NBBL title.

Thanks Matheo for talking to germanhoops.com. Talk a little about your basketball roots and how you got interested in basketball?

I used to play soccer, but lost interest in it and started playing basketball after my old head coach in Friedenau discovered me on an outside court.

Where did you play before playing with Alba Berlin?

I played at Friedenauer TSC

When did you come to Alba Berlin?

I came to ALBA BERLIN in my second year of JBBL

You won the JBBL title. What was so special with that team?

I think we were very competitive and everybody had a good understanding of what their role was.

Who were your early basketball inspirations on the court?

I used to watch a lot of Kevin Durant, but also in Europe, Lorenzo Brown

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would probably see Derrick White because of his elite defensive and the ability to shoot the ball on a high level

Talk a little about your offensive game. Your not the massive scorer, but are very athletic, defends at a high level and loves the open court. How would you describe your offensive game best?

I would say I have the ability to make the game a lot faster when I’m on the court and knock down shots from outside at a good level, but also be aggressive in attacking closeouts and finding my teammates out of the pick and roll.

You shot 36% from outside in the NBBL in 2 of the last 3 years and once 23%. How would you rate the current development of your outside shot? What do you need to establish to make it even more consistent?

I work on my shot a lot. I think consistency on paper will come naturally as I keep working on shooting out of the dribble and challenging myself in practice in order to make shots even when the ones before did not fall.

You’re a very aggressive defender. Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I think right now I am able to guard from 1 to 4 because I have the ability to use my length, but also athleticism to stay in front of people and not be physically in a disadvantage. I think in the future I will become even more physical, which is the number one priority defensively for me.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer in order to continue to improve your game?

I will work a lot on shooting off the dribble in the mid range, but of course also behind the three-point line, reading defenders even better in order to attack closeouts or find my teammates and get a lot more physical.

In the 2023-2024 season you lost a tough 3 game NBBL playoffs series against Vechta. What will you always remember from that brutal 3 game series?

I think those games will always be tough, but it’s a learning experience and moments like these will always help to be a better player.

You also played ANGT that season and lost a brutal 118-46 game to FC Barcelona that featured many great players like Dame Saar and Mathieu Grujicic. What did you personally learn from that tough loss?

I think I saw the difference in physicality and athleticism that you don’t really face in Germany, which motivated me a lot because it showed me where I need and want to be.

In the 24-25 season you had your first experience with Lok Bernau and also averaged 7.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 55.2%, in the NBBL and played also at ALBA Berlin U18 team (ANGT) averaging 11.5ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.0%. You reached the NBBL Top4 but lost to Ulm. Was the Ulm depth better that season? What was key for not being able to reach the final?

I think Ulm showed a lot of effort and will to win that game and eventually the difference maker was how much do you want it. I think me and all of my teammates know that we could have given that extra 1% more, which would have probably changed the outcome of the game, but like I said, I think these games are a learning experience, and every player on that team is glad to have went through that situation.

You played ANGT again and scored in double figures well in all games. You lost badly again to FC Barcelona and Olympiakos, but what could you personally take with you from this experience?

It was a great experience for me because I felt like I could showcase the work that I had put in and overall it’s always good to play against that good of a competition to understand where you might need to improve or what you might need to specifically work on.

This season you finally won the NBBL title over ratiopharmUlm. How special was it winning it this time?

It was very special, I think we earned that win and every single person on this team did everything they could to make that dream come true and this year it was us, who showed more effort, which is great to see after losing to Ulm last year.

Was depth and team chemistry something that was very key for Alba Berlin winning the title?

For sure, I think it was one of the best chemistries I have ever experienced in a team, which obviously plays into how much trust we have for each other. Also, the fact that every single one of the players on this team was able to stand on the floor and make an impact is eventually what gave us a huge advantage in both games in the top four.

You gave your team big impulses in the wins over Frankfurt and Ulm and filled the stat sheet really well. Was your combined 2/11 shooting something that will give you big incentive to work more on your shooting this summer?

I think that’s part of the game and the main focus for that weekend was to help my team secure the championship. Obviously there’s always something that could’ve went better, but as somebody who is very competitive and probably my biggest judge, I also need to realize when it’s important to put the ego and pride aside and focus on what’s actually important.

The team was so special from players 1-12, but talk about Anton Kemmer and Finn Borczanowski? How special were these 2 guys for the success?

I think they’re both very talented players. It was very fun to be able to work with them this year and the years before that, I think they have developed very well and I’m excited to see what the future holds for them.

You have now played 2 seasons with Lok Bernau. You haven´t averaged more than 2,0ppg. How did you see your development in the Pro B?

I think this year and last year were a huge learning experience. being able to get on the floor for a short amount of time, and trying to make an impact somehow helped me grow as a player, but also mentally.

You played 1 BCL game and practice with the Alba Berlin team. What 1-2 players had the biggest impact on you form the easyCredit BBL team?

I think the way Justin Bean approaches the game is very inspiring and it really helped me to stay positive and be in the right mindspace even when things are not going my way.

What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Berlin, or possibly go to the NCAA?

I think, whatever the best situation for me is, will be the situation I will choose to be in.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Probably Nolan Traore

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Dorian Grosber, Tidiane Ly, Jonathan Conrad, Noah Isichei, Eric Nkoué

Please name your NBA and German Mount Rushmores of 4 best players of all-time?

1. LeBron James

2. MJ

3. Kobe

4. Steph Curry

1. Dirk Nowitzki

2. Dennis schröder

3. Franz Wagner

4. Isaiah Hartenstein

Who is your GOAT?

Kevin Durant

Thanks Matheo for the chat.

Getting Injured And Battling Future NBA Player Isaac Bonga In Frankfurt In 2018 Began Ron Mvouika´s(Art Giants) Love Story With Germany

Ron Mvouika with Steph Curry

Injuries is always something that pro athletes dread. It is something that could lead a career in the wrong direction or even end it. In the case of Congo forward Ron Mvouika (196-G/F-1991, college: St.John’s) it actually did end the season for him, but at the same time it was the start of something very lovely in his career. In January 2018, I witnessed the second to last pro B game of Isaac Bonga against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen and Ron Mvouika who exploded for 30 points and Pro B career high carrying the Fraport Skyliners Juniors to the easy 81-65 win. Bonga was on his way to being drafted by the NBA the following summer and was getting extra experience playing games for the farm team that season in the Pro B. Bonga was very much on my radar that season so at times it was difficult to notice other basketball stories, but I was fully aware of another young player named Ron Mvouika who popped up on my radar having played for NBA hall of famer Chris Mullin with St Johns only a few years earlier. Mvouika had had experience in France and UK before coming to Germany. 8,5 years later he remembers this game and Bonga as if it was yesterday for a very special reason. “We had our first interview after that game. I remember being told that Bonga had NBA talent. At first it was hard for me to believe it, because I had battled guys like Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson only a few years earlier in the NCAA. But when I found out that he was 17, I could believe it. He did a bit of everything. He was never in a rush and I saw he had the chance to be really special. He got my ultimate respect after that game. That was also the game where I hurt my shoulder and was injured. That kept me in Germany for the next 6 months and started my love story with Germany”, remembered Ron Mvouika.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Ron Mvouika at BCM in Frankfurt in 2018

Some years had past, but I saw Mvouika again in 2022 when he played in the Pro B for the RheinStars Cologne and again in 2023 when he was a spectator at the Pro B final in Cologne when the RheinStars played against the Dragons Rhondorf. I had had him on my radar for years, but the past memories came out of nowhere again recently when I read the press release by the Art Giants Dusseldorf announcing his arrival back in the Pro B after 4 years away from the pro game. Why did he venture into semi retirement in 2022? “I took some time off to be more with my family. My second child was on the way in 2022 when I was with the RheinStars. I had had the same situation in 2019 when my first child was born. I had a great offer in the UK and took it. That messed me up and then came Covid. I didn´t want to go through that again a second time. That is why I stopped playing and stayed with my family”, said Ron Mvouika. In the last 4 years, he remained in Germany in Cologne and I thought he was a kind of diplomat for the country Congo on account of seeing that Lotola Otshumbe who is a basketball workaholic in Cologne had him listed in his phone contacts as president Cologne Congo, but boy was I wrong. “A good skill of mine has always been networking. I have always been good with connecting with people. I took a kind of spiritual route and did many different things. I had some businesses, helped send kids to basketball academies and also had a music label. I followed visuals and my dreams and tried different things. However I was also still connected to basketball. I had a small venture playing in China, but it was never documented. The money was good, but I was far from my kids. I never stopped training and was always ready for the next opportunity. I never lost a beat”, warned Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Chris Mullin

He had played 6 seasons in countries like France, UK, Germany, Austria and Luxemburg and 4 years later suddenly was back again ready to battle in Germany with the Art Giants Duesseldorf. Was the itch to play again so big that he couldn´t refuse that offer? “I had offers last season, but I didn´t want to leave my kids and wife. I have to give a big shout out to Stephan Baeck who let me use the RheinStars practice facility whenever I wanted to. I was in the gym every day and helped train guys during the summer. If It wouldn´t have been for the opportunity and grace of Baeck, it would have been a different story. I had the privilege to use their gym and it helped me a lot to stay in a professional setting”, stressed Ron Mvouika. There were two distinct reasons with his family and head coach Robert Shepherd why he signed with the Art Giants Duesseldorf. “I had always had in mind for my family and kids see me play. I have seen it all in my career from great gyms in the NCAA and flying around in private jets. Many don´t understand that basketball is a business. I came overseas and always had to prove myself. I was burned out in 2022. Now coming back, my motivation was different and that had to do with Robert Shepherd. We had many similiarities and similar backrounds. We both had new opportunities. It was an easy marriage for me. I still have a lot of gas in my tank. I didn´t do it for the money, but the opportunity to help push this program forward”, commented Ron Mvouika. It also helps that he has been in Germany for a long time. Is it like a second home for him now? “It is my main home now, but Paris is home. I really appreciate Cologne, because it is big and small at the same time. Germany has always had a reputation of being cold, but for me Cologne is warm. I never traveled much in Germany and only really know the NRW area. I like the food in Germany and the simplicity of all. Paris feels like your going 100,000 miles an hour. Paris is mentally different. In cologne I can go to the park and listen to music”, laughed Ron Mvouika. It will be interesting to watch how the relationship of Mvouika and head coach Shepherd will grow with time. “He is my man. We already have a strong relationship now. I don´t think that I have ever had a coach where I was able to lock in with so well. We have constant contact. He will call me in Paris to check in. I will be a bridge between him and rest of team. We have a good open relationship. He gave me this opportunity and I will ride and die for him”, warned Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Carmelo Anthony

He will turn 35 in November, so how good will he still be able to be now having been away from the game since 2022? “I almost signed in Paris last season. I´m old school. I started to play when I was 5 and have been playing almost 30 years. Training has always been a lifestyle. I´m a master of my craft and am always sharpening it. I have played basketball in three continents and have picked up so much from many coaches. My IQ is really high. I slow down the game now and play with my head instead of only running around and wasting movement”, stated Ron Mvouika. He compares his game to Paul George and does his game reflect that of a Swiss army knife? “That was my nickname so often in my career. I know how to adapt to giving a team what it needs most. I score with heart, but I love to pass and create. I never have had a big ego and just give a team what it needs most to win”, added Ron Mvouika. He may not have the quickness on defense that he had 10 years ago, but will be able to shine in other ways. “Key is having a good IQ at both ends and playing defense with my mouth. I scout on the court. Playing defense is like a boxing match. I try to do everything to put the opponent in tough situations”, explained Ron Mvouika. So on what areas of his game did he work on most this summer, so he will be best prepared in the Pro B in 2026-2027? “I worked most playing 5-5 and getting back into the flow of passing the ball. I have worked so much on individual skills in my career. Now I focus a lot on the mental part. I make mind work challenging and try to beat you mentally. I also worked on my shot. I have always been a shot maker. My shot is my breakfast”, warned Ron Mvouika. He is also really motivated to help the young players with his veteran leadership. “I think that at the end of the day what matters the most is giving knowledge. I need to inspire. If I can help anyone get better, then that is my job. People won´t remember stats, but remember if you were a good man. I will give my wisdom on an doff the court”, said Ron Mvouika.

Ron Mvouika and Klay Thompson

He will be playing for his third organization in Germany and still has fond memories of his early days with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen and being teammates with fellow versatile player CJ Oldham. “I watched him play a lot the last years when I was inactive. He mastered that flat shot. He is a great player, but even more a better human being. He was never in trouble. I actually saw him a few months ago”, said Ron Mvouika. He was very fortunate to have played for American basketball legend Chris Mullin who gave him so much vital advice like learning a specific role and treated him like a pro from day one. “I will never forget when he told me that guys in the NBA who have the longest careers are the role players. Do you think that a guy that averaged 20 points in college will do the same for the Timberwolves beside Anthony Edwards? It isn´t about how good one is, but how much money you make. He taught me that you have to be good at every position. I remember running the point at St Johns against Villanova and Jalen Brunson. The next game, I would play the 3 and the next game the 4. He would throw me into the water at any position. You need to be great at what you do. If you can play multiple positions well, then it will be hard for a coach not to play you”, stated Ron Mvouika. Does he still have contact to Chris Mullin today? “I mean there are some guys that you have in your phone that you won´t just call, but I know that if I really needed to get a hold of him I could. I have a really good relationship to Greg St Jean an assistant for the Lakers. I´m sure that he will be a head coach soon in the NBA. I have that feeling and had the same kind of feeling about Jacques Schneider when he was an assistant in Leverkusen. I always knew that he was special and become big one day”, warned Ron Mvouika. His toughest cover in the NCAA was Kris Dunn, but Fred Van Vleet also was one that he never forgot. “Fred was never in a rush and was always under control. He wasn´t the most athletic or the quickest, but always knew what to do. He had a high IQ, hit shots and just made the right play. He was able to do it all without speaking. He could become slick and give a quick reply and mention that you couldn´t guard him”, smiled Ron Mvouika. As a Bostonian and Celtics fan, I had to ask him if he could give me some assuring words that Paul George will be able to replace Jaylen Brown in Boston despite his age and help me block out all the negativity in Boston about this trade. “If you ask anyone in his generation, kids will say he is their favorite player. If he is healthy, there is nothing that Brown can do that George can´t do. George is a killer. He has no weakness on offense. He is a 3 level scorer. I´m excited what he will do in Boston”, warned Ron Mvouika. So when will Ron Mvouika see CJ Oldham again? Oldham has played 9 seasons in the Pro B and perhaps the 2 will meet again this season. When they do, both will have a special 1-1 topic to talk about. “CJ knows exactly who will win a 1-1 match between him and I. I would have won in 2018 and would smoke him in 2026”, laughed Ron Mvouika. I´m sure CJ Oldham will be fired up for a 1-1 duel in 2026 with Ron Mvouika.

Dragos Diculescu’s Game Foundation Is His Versatility And IQ That Will Allow Him To Impact Winning For The EPG Baskets Koblenz This Season

Dragos Diculescu (196-G/F-1999, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 27 year old 196cm guard from Romania playing his second season in Germany and first with Pro A club EPG Baskets Koblenz. He played his first season in Germany in 2024-2025 with the BG Hessing Leitershofen (Germany-Pro B) averaging 18.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 4.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.1%. Last season he palyed with the Koping Stars (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 87.4%. He began his basketball career in his native Romania and palyed with teams like Steaua CSM EximBank Bucuresti (Liga Nationala), BC Timisoara (Liga Nationala), and SCM CSU Craiova (Liga Nationala. He then played 2 seasons with Landstede Basketbal Zwolle (Holland-DBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Dragos for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. After a season in Sweden, your back in Germany. What kind of a relationship did you personally get when you played in Leitershofen 2 seasons ago?

First of all, I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to do this interview. I’m grateful for the platform to share my thoughts, my mentality, and a little bit more about who I am as a player and person. As for returning to Germany, it was a decision that felt very natural to me. I had a great experience here before, and I’ve always viewed German basketball as one of the strongest and most professional environments in Europe. The level of organization, the quality of the competition, and the opportunities for player development make it a great place to grow. I have ambitious goals for my career, and I believe Germany is a country where strong performances are recognized and where players can continue taking the next steps in their development. At the same time, it’s simply a great place to live and work as a professional athlete. When the opportunity to return came up, I was genuinely excited because I felt it aligned with both my personal and professional goals.

You reached the final in Holland some years ago and are still looking for your first pro title. The EPG Baskets are surely a team that won´t win the title. Why did you chose to join the EPG Baskets Koblenz?

Winning a championship is definitely one of my career goals, but I’ve always believed that championships are the result of a much bigger process. My focus is on becoming the type of player who can consistently contribute to winning at the highest level. In basketball, the margins are incredibly small, and there are many great players who have had championship-level careers without necessarily winning a title every season. My goal is to keep developing into a championship-caliber player, and I trust that success will follow. As for Koblenz, I never choose a team with the mindset of limiting what is possible. Every team I’ve joined, I’ve joined with the intention of competing and winning. Of course, there are teams with bigger budgets or different expectations, but budgets don’t play the gamesplayers do. First, we have to focus on building something strong and reaching the playoffs. Once you’re there, anything can happen. More importantly, I felt that Koblenz was the right environment for me to continue growing as a player and as a person. I had a great feeling from the conversations with the club and the coaching staff, and when you find a place that aligns with your goals and values, there is no reason to keep looking elsewhere.

How did the talks go with head coach Stephan Doehrn. What did you appreciate right away about his basketball philosophy?

I really enjoyed my conversations with Coach Stefan. We had discussions last year as well about a potential collaboration, and even then I got the impression that he views basketball in a very modern and professional way. What stood out to me was his vision for building a team and the principles he wants that team to be built on. It felt like a healthy environment with a clear identity, which immediately appealed to me. I also felt that the role he described was a very good fit for my strengths as a player. More than anything, I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from him and better understand his perspective on the game. There’s definitely a lot of curiosity and enthusiasm on my side, and I’m looking forward to working together.

How excited are you to be teammates with Ferenc Gille again? What do you appreciate most about his game?

Ferenc and I built a strong connection the first time we played together because we shared a similar view of the game and a genuine desire to keep improving. We both had a growth mindset, spent a lot of time talking basketball, and I really enjoyed seeing how our chemistry developed throughout the season. What I appreciate most about him is his consistency, energy, and team-first mentality. He’s one of the most reliable teammates I’ve played withsomeone who brings experience, professionalism, and always puts the team’s success ahead of individual recognition. I’m really excited to share the court with him again. We created a lot of great memories together the first time around, and I’m looking forward to building on that in the season ahead.

The club sees you as being one of the leaders on the team. How do you feel comfortable of having that type of responsibility in your first Pro A season in Germany?

I’ve always been a vocal, high-energy player, and I’ve been fortunate to take on leadership responsibilities throughout different stages of my career. Because of that, leadership is something that feels natural to me, and I’m excited about the expectations and responsibility that come with this opportunity. At the same time, I believe successful teams have multiple leaders. Leadership isn’t carried by one person aloneit’s shared among players, coaches, and people throughout the organization. Personally, I’ve never been afraid of responsibility. Every season and every challenge brings lessons that help you grow, whether things go well or not. That’s why I approach this role with excitement rather than anxiety, and I’m looking forward to contributing both on and off the court.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm swing man. If you had to compare your game to a Euroleague player, who would best fit the description?

The most natural comparison would probably be Marko Guduric because we’re both left-handed and share some similarities in the way we see the game, especially in terms of playmaking and versatility. At the same time, I’ve never tried to model my game after just one player. Throughout my career, I’ve studied a lot of EuroLeague players and tried to take small elements from each of them. Some things fit naturally, some don’t, and that’s part of the process. For me, it’s never about copying someone else’s gameit’s about learning from the best and using basketball as a constant library of ideas. Those lessons can come from EuroLeague stars, former players, teammates, or even younger players. I’m always looking for ways to improve, but ultimately the goal is to build a style that is authentic to who I am as a player.

You’re a very versatile player and also have a very high IQ. You were close to a triple double last season in Sweden against BC Lulea. How valuable are these qualities in your game?

I believe versatility and basketball IQ are two of the foundations of my game because they allow me to impact winning in different ways. Every game is different, and my goal is always to give the team what it needs most. Some nights that means creating for teammates and making the right reads, other nights it means scoring, rebounding, or taking on tough defensive assignments.

I’ve never viewed basketball only through points or statistics. For me, it’s about helping the team win, whatever that requires. That’s why I’m constantly working on every aspect of my game, trying to become as complete and reliable a player as possible for any team I represented.

Early in your career you shot 50% from outside with BC Timisoaraand a few years ago in limited action 45% with CSM Constanta. How do you rate the development of your three pointer? How big of a goal is it reaching that 40% plateau?

I think percentages can be a useful reference, but they can also be misleading if taken out of context. Shooting numbers are always influenced by things like shot volume, role, and shot selection, so it’s important to understand the situation behind them rather than just the final number. For me, the focus is less on hitting a specific percentage threshold and more on the quality of my decision-making. As my role changes and I take on more responsibility, the number and difficulty of shots can also change, which naturally affects efficiency. What I try to control is taking the right shots within the flow of the game and making good decisions on when to shoot, when to pass, and how to create the best outcome for the team. I trust the work I put in and my ability as a shooter, so I focus more on maintaining high-quality shot selection and consistency rather than chasing a specific percentage.

Talk about your defensive game. Where would you rate yourself as a defender right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think defense is often viewed too much through an individual lens, when in reality it’s one of the most collective aspects of basketball. Over the years, playing in different countries and systems has helped me develop a better understanding of team defense, communication, rotations, and the importance of being connected as a unit. As a defender, I try to bring consistency, communication, and a strong understanding of the system. I take pride in being vocal, knowing my responsibilities, and helping teammates be in the right positions. At the professional level, effort and discipline are just as important as physical tools. Of course, like every part of my game, there is always room for improvement. That’s why I spend time studying film, analyzing mistakes, and looking for ways to become more effective. My goal is the same as it has always been: to be a player who contributes to winning, and defense is a big part of that.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer so you can continue to improve as a player?

In the summer, I think it’s important not to try to improve everything at once, because that usually leads to losing focus. Instead, I try to identify a few key areas and really commit to them. For the first time, I also know quite early what my situation and role might look like for the next season, which helps a lot in structuring my work. At the same time, I’m in ongoing conversations with the coaching staff, because I don’t just want to work on what I personally feel I need, but also on what the team will need from me. So my approach is to combine both perspectives: my own development priorities and the system I’m going into. I try to understand early how I will be used, and then prepare specifically for that role so I can arrive already adapted and ready to contribute from day one.

Thanks Dragons for the chat.

Keon Thompson(Manchester Basketball) Keeps It Simple In That He Just Tries To Make The Right Play And Help His Team Win

Keon Thompson (185-G-2003, college: SF Austin) is a 183cm guard from Indiana playing his rookie season overseas with Manchester Basketball (United Kingdom-SLB). He began his basketball career at Merrillville High School and then played at Hargrave Military Academy. He then played 2 seasons at the University of Massachusetts (NCAA) averaging 5.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 68.1% and 9.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 23.2%, FT: 72.0%. He then finished at Stephen F. Austin State University (NCAA) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.5% and 18.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 69.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before an exhibition game against the Frankfurt Skyliners.

Thanks Keon for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing your first pro deal with Manchester Basketball (United Kingdom-SLB). Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you, are you a soccer fan? Manchester has 2 famous clubs with Manchester and Manchester City. Will you be visiting soccer games?

I would love to go to a game I think it would be a great life experience for myself and I literally started watching soccer when the World Cup began.

How excited are you about testing the waters overseas? Are you ready?

I feel ready, all my hard work and progression has came a long way and I’m looking forward to the opportunity.

Your playing a test game against the Frankfurt Skyliners soon. What do you know about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had guys that you know hoop in Germany?

An old college teammate of mine played there and enjoyed but I don’t know too much about Germany and it’s basketball scenery

You stated in the Manchester basketball press release that you have always believed when your given an opportunity, it´s your job to make the most out of it. You showed this once before after you went from UMass and broke out at Stephen F. Austin State University. Do you have a chip on your shoulder feeling that you have to prove yourself again?

I wouldn’t necessarily say I have a chip on my shoulder. I think I just have a mindset that whenever I’m given an opportunity, I have to make the most of it. I did that at SFA, and now I have another opportunity with Manchester. I know I still have a lot to learn, especially coming into professional basketball, but I’m confident in what I can bring. I just want to come in, work every day, compete, and show what I can do.

What were the main reasons for joining Manchetser basketball? What made this offer so enticing to you?

A big reason was the opportunity Manchester presented me with. I felt like they really believed in me and saw a role for me where I could come in, compete, and continue developing my game. The coaching staff, the team’s goals, and the opportunity to play in Europe all made it really attractive. I wanted my first professional experience to be somewhere I felt I could grow, contribute, and be challenged every day, and Manchester felt like the right place for that.

How did the talks go with head coach Mark Otten? What did you instantly appreciate most about his basketball philosophy? Coach loves your winning mentality.

The talks went really well. Right away, I could tell Coach Otten had a clear vision for how he wanted to play and what he expected from his players. What I appreciated most was that he values competing, playing the right way, and doing whatever it takes to win. He had already watched a lot of my college games, so he understood my game and what I could bring. I really appreciated how much he believed in my winning mentality, and that made me feel like Manchester was the right place for me to continue growing as a player.

You’re a 183cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’d probably say Jalen Brunson. I like the way he controls the game, gets to his spots, creates for himself and his teammates, and plays with a lot of toughness despite being undersized. I try to bring that same mentality to the game.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet with ease. Is it fair to say that one can´t define you as a scoring or only playmaking guard? What are your biggest strengths on offense?

Yeah, I would say that’s fair. I don’t really see myself as just a scoring guard or just a playmaker. I try to impact the game in whatever way is needed. If the team needs me to score, I’ll score. If I need to create for my teammates, I’ll do that. I think one of my biggest strengths offensively is my ability to create my own shot, get downhill, and make plays for others. I also feel like I have a good feel for the game and can read what the defense is giving me. Ultimately, I just try to make the right play and help us win.

Talk a little about your defensive game. You’re a very ambitious defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I think defense is something I can really bring to the team. I’m a competitive guy, so I enjoy taking on the challenge of guarding the other team’s best players. I use my quickness, strength, and instincts to be aggressive and make things uncomfortable. At the same time, I know there’s always room to grow. I want to become more disciplined, better with my positioning, and more consistent throughout the entire game. My goal is to be a two-way guard that can impact winning on both ends.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so that you can continue to improve your game this season?

Right now, I’m focused on becoming a more complete player. I want to continue improving my decision-making and efficiency, especially when I have the ball in my hands. I’m also putting a lot of work into my three-point shooting, becoming more consistent and confident from behind the arc. Defensively, I want to keep improving my positioning and discipline. Overall, I just want to keep developing every part of my game and become a more complete two-way guard.

You played 2 seasons at the University of Massachusetts (NCAA) averaging 5.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 68.1% and : 9.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 23.2%, FT: 72.0%. How do you remember these early years in your basketball development under head coach Frank Martin?

Those two years were really important for me. I came into UMass with a lot to learn, and Coach Frank Martin challenged me to become a more complete player and understand what it takes to compete at a high level. My numbers improved from my first year to my second, but more than anything, those years taught me how to handle adversity, stay confident, and keep working even when things weren’t going the way I wanted. Looking back, I’m grateful for that experience because it helped prepare me for what came next at SFA and now for my professional career.

You had massive games at UMass against Sienna, URI and GMU. What was your fondest moment on the court at UMass?

I’d probably say the win against Rhode Island. That game really stands out to me because of the atmosphere, the competition, and the way we played together as a team. Being able to contribute in a big game like that and see the work we put in during practice translate onto the court was special. Those are the moments you remember not just because of your individual performance, but because you were able to help your teammates and compete for a win.”

You then moved to Stephen F. Austin State University (NCAA) averaging 13.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.5% and 18.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.9%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 69.3%. How key was it making this move and how did your game grow further there?

It was a really important move for me. I felt like I needed a fresh opportunity where I could play with more freedom and continue developing my game. At SFA, I was able to take on a bigger role and become more confident as a scorer and playmaker. I improved my decision-making, my ability to create for myself and others, and became more comfortable playing at a faster pace and making plays under pressure. Most importantly, I learned how to lead, compete, and impact winning in different ways. That experience really helped prepare me for this next step into professional basketball.

You had many very memorable games at Stephen T Austin State University like scoring32 points against UT Rio Grande Valley or 27 points against Tulsa or 27points against Northwestern State where you had big free throws in the last 10 seconds to seal the win. What was your favorite game there?

It’s tough to pick just one because all three were special for different reasons. Beating McNeese at home was really memorable because of the atmosphere and what that win meant to us. The quarterfinal against TAMU-CC was special because of the pressure of tournament basketball and knowing that everything was on the line. And then playing in the NIT was something I’ll never forget because it was another level of competition, the atmosphere was electric and a great way to represent SFA. If I had to choose one, I’d probably say the McNeese game at home because of the energy in the building and being able to experience that with my teammates and our fans.

How did head coaches Tony Jasick and Matt Braeuer groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

I’d say both coaches played a part in my journey, but in different ways. Coach Jasick was part of my early experience at SFA and helped me understand the college game and what was expected of me. With Coach Braeuer, I was able to take another step in my development and have a bigger role. He trusted me with more responsibility and challenged me to become a better decision-maker, scorer and leader. Those experiences helped me understand the level of discipline, preparation and consistency that you need to have if you want to play professionally.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Lateef Patrick?

I won of course

Who was the best player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Da’ron Holmes

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Bill Russell

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Thanks Keon for the chat.

Judah Mintz Is An Aspiring Chef In The Kitchen But Also Wants To Be That Basketball Chief In The Skyliners Offense

Pic Credit: Zibart.de

I have to be honest the excitement that I possess for the new Skyliners season is at an all-time high. The last years have been real tough times for the organization that even led to a season having to play in the second division Pro A. The ambitions for club owner Gunnar Wobke have always been sky high as he has never stopped striving for his dream of a fabulous state of the art arena since 20 years. The club formed a real deep and talented roster what they needed to to be able to compete in Eurocup, an international tournament that they last took part in in 2018. The build up to the first cup challenge against Science City Jena was big and the club that won the 2000 BBL cup, 2004 BBL title and 2016 Fiba Europe Cup didn´t disappoint overpowering them 94-63. It was a good start even if Science City Jena wasn´t themselves on this day. Fans were able to see how well the new players performed and one that didn´t disappoint was guard Judah Mintz (190-SG-2003, college: Syracuse). It didn´t take long for fans to see him score his first easyCredit BBL points as at the 9,54 minute mark of the first quarter, the Skyliners led 2-0. Mintz was super alert on the jump ball and showed that a big focus the Skyliners will practice this season is running. “Race Thompson and I made some eye contact shortly before the jump ball happened. We saw that Jena set up a wrong way. Race tipped the ball to me and Tommy Klepeisz just yelled go, go, go and I drove to the hole for the easy basket. It was a great way to start the game”, smiled Judah Mintz.

The Washington native who lists current Washington Wizard Jamir Watkins as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was more than content with how the Skyliners presented themselves in the overwhelming 31 point victory over Science City Jena. “It feels really good to win so big. The first half was a little rough, but we did a great job improving our will in the second half. I´m really excited for the season”, stressed Judah Mintz. Science City Jena somehow were only down by 5 points at the break despite having countless turnovers and didn´t impress anyone with their lack of team play, but in the third quarter came the Skyliners turn around and break out. I was about 5 minutes to early as I had predicted that Frankfurt would lead by 20 plus points by half-time, but instead they led 73-55 after 30 minutes. They produced a lethal 26-5 run and it seemed like a nasty basketball hurricane had swept through the arena. “We did a good job picking up our defensive intensity. We were disciplined on defense and got many stops. I think that if we can be able to consistently string along stops, then we will be good enough offensively to make teams pay”, warned Judah Mintz. He displayed many nice plays including showing his dangerous drive twice in a row during the 26-5 run scoring with massive authority getting to the rim. “I had some bad turnovers before that. I think I looked to much to pass when I should have been more aggressive. I think I showed just how well I can get downhill. I´m lucky that the players and coaches all trust me. That allows me to use my athleticism as best I can”, stated Judah Mintz.

He celebrated a stellar 2 year career at Syracuse (NCAA) averaging 16.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 76.1%, and 19.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.4apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 76.1%. He turned pro in 2024-2025 and had a productive rookie season with the Delaware Blue Coats (NBA G League) averaging 18.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 81.1%. Despite finishing his rookie season with explosive 45,40 and 36 point games in his last 6 games, he was never rewarded with a NBA call up. Maybe he should of tried one more year for the NBA, but instead he came overseas in 2025 and continued his development overseas and played with Glint Manisa Basket (Turkey-BSL) averaging 15.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.3%. He had huge scoring games with 32 points against Trabzonspor and 28 points against Petkim and showed that his game could be compatible to the overseas style. “The Turkish league was some adjusting to get used. I was usually one of the youngest on the court and played against former NBA players. I remember the style being very physical. The pace in the easyCredit is a little different. This league is also physical. I think that I learned to play through physicality in Turkey. I think that the BBL fits my game”, stressed Judah Mintz. He finished his first game in a Skyliners uniform having a stat line that read 14/2/4/4/2 and shot 50% from the field. He will get back to his roots again with the Skyliners as last season he had a different type of role in Turkey. “I was a two guard in Turkey. That was a lot different to what I was in college. I was a point guard at Syracuse and in the G-League. I learned to move more without the ball last season. My role this season is to run the show. I will have vets to help me like Ryan Archidiacono. I have enough veterans to lean on and am very excited to run the show”, commented the ambitious and aggressive defender Judah Mintz. He already showed his toughness and simplicity of being able to get to the basket, but there is another aspect of his game that he wants to improve this season. “I want to be able to hit shots at a higher clip. I want to score at all three levels. I showed that I can score in Turkey. I also want to get everyone on the team involved in order to elevate my career”, warned Judah Mintz. He has shown his tricks on the court, but how has he come to terms with off court life in beautiful Germany? Has he tried any of the incredible food and drink like apple wine? “My coolest experience so far was going to a festival in Frankfurt that was along the Main river. I haven´t tried the apple wine yet. I actually do a lot of cooking myself. I like to cook pasta like spaghetti and lamb chops”, smiled Judath Mintz. He may be a chef in the making in the kitchen, but his biggest priority is being the best chief possible in the Skyliners offense.

Isaiah Swope Is Back Unleashing breathtaking Deep Three´s Leading The Skyliners To Explosive 94-63 Cup Win Over Science City Jena

It had been a long summer without basketball with the Skyliners as the new season was finally alive. Frankfurt had closed out the 2025-2026 season with a rough long losing streak that slammed the door shut early on the playdowns. But despite last seasons dismal ending, the excitement for this season was massive as the team were signed up for Eurocup and had to really bolster their roster and had their strongest team in many many years. The team added great experience with guys like ex NBA player Ryan Arcidiacono, Judah Mintz and Race Thompson and kept durable veterans like Til Pape, Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis) and Will Christmas. Their first mission was winning a cup game at home against Science City Jena who stayed in the easyCredit BBL and were coached by player coach Steven Esterkamp who was back in Frankfurt, a place he battled as a player 20 years ago. He had also constructed an interesting roster, but they came into the game as the underdog as he had 4 new Americans looking to make the next step this season in a higher league in the easyCredit BBL. On a mild late summer day, Science City Jena was able to stay with the Skyliners for a half, but in the third quarter, the Skyliners totally broke open the game unleashing a brutal basketball hurricane which led to them winning the first round of the cup tournament against Jena 94-63. It was a super way for the Skyliners to start their season as a lot of excitement has been produced in the last weeks for the season. “It was a good feeling winning this game. It was a good opportunity to play together and show who we are. We have to remember that we will still have many tough opponents and shouldn´t get too excited. We had a big third quarter and played well at both ends”, stressed Skyliner guard Isaiah Swope. Science City Jena had problems all day long with coughing up the ball and at the end, it was 27 turnovers which led to a crazy 40-10 fast break points for Frankfurt. All in all, Science City Jena showed a different face in Frankfurt and it wasn´t their real one. “We weren´t a team today. Frankfurt was the better team and played good defense. We were too much individuals today. The only way to win is to play as a team and we weren´t ready today”, stressed Science City Jena head coach Steven Esterkamp.

Race Thompson to the hole

The Skyliners were without German big Jacob Knauf and got into a flow right away taking the rapid 10-4 lead. The Skyliners hit their first 4 shots and showed great team play as a different player scored each basket. Ex Syracuse (NCAA) guard Judah Mintz scored off the jump ball at the 9,54 minute mark which was followed by a Will Christmas trey, ex Bonn big man Till Pape added a lay in while ex Indiana University (NCAA) forward Race Thompson also added a lay in. The Skyliners moved the ball well and got to their spaces while Jena had more 1-1 play as they couldn´t establish good team ball against the aggressive Frankfurt defense. Jena was able to stay with Frankfurt in the early going, because Frankfurt made some turnovers. Ex Phoenix Hagen center Alex Herrea made a sweet alley oop dunk off a pretty pass from German Raphael Falkenthal while ex Louisville player Terrence Edwards made a turn around shot to trail 14-10. Frankfurt was still in an offensive groove and got 5 points from ex St Louis (NCAA) guard Isaiah Swope who nailed a deep trey from the center of Hochst. The Skyliners led 21-10 and also the assists race then 8-1 as team ball ruled. It seemed like the Skyliners may reach 30 points at the cruel scoring pace they were at, but instead were shocked as Jena rattled off a 8-0 run to trail only 21-18. Sniper Jemarl Baker who made the jump from the Pro A in Bremerhaven added 5 points while ex Eastern Washington University (NCAA) guard Isaiah Moses also nailed a three pointer. Till Pape and Falkenthal traded baskets in the last minute, but the Skyliners had the slim 24-20 advantage. “We demonstrated early on that we can play as a team. I think the new pieces to the team showed that they are unselfish. We played well as a team”, stated Isaiah Swope. The Skyliners shot 53% from the field and 40% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 4 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 67% from the field and 100% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Terrence Edwards at the FT line

In the second quarter the Skyliners lost their offensive groove and both teams had immense problems taking care of the ball as combined both teams had 14 turnovers. Christmas began the second quarter with a lay in, but Jena punched back with a lay in by Pierre Brooks (Michigan State (University) as the Skyliners led 26-22. Jena continued to play more 1-1 and were able to stay in the game. Brooks continued to be aggressive and scored on the drive in traffic while Falkenthal added a free throw to trail 26-25. Jena continued to slowly chip away and took advantage of further Skyliners turnovers while Frankfurt couldn´t. Frankfurt then scored back to back buckets from Thompson and new German Roman Bedime to lead 30-24, but Jena always had an answer to get closer. But Jemarl Baker would prove to be a real spark plug as he continued to keep the guests close. The Skyliners also gave him way too much room to play his game as he added 5 points including a trey as Frankfurt led 33-31. However the Skyliners showed that they are able to explode at the switch of a lever as they scored 6 unanswered points. German Radii Caisin was a real spark plug who sparkled with 2 lay in´s while American Nahioem Alleyne also made a lay in for the 40-32 lead. However the Skyliners couldn´t make a last stop before the break as Baker once again punished the Skyliners with a clutch three pointer as Science City Jena trailed 40-35. “The second quarter was a game of runs. These things happen. We have to learn to be able to play through not so ideal possessions”, warned Isaiah Swope. The Skyliners shot 50% from the field and 27% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 54% from the field and 44% from the three point line and had 13 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Judah Mintz at the FT line

In the third quarter was when the Skyliners made the turning point of the game with a massive run which Science City Jena was unable to recover from. Ex Quincy (NCAA2) forward Tanner Stuckman began the second quarter with a lay in as Jena trailed only 40-37. After Brooks and Mintz traded buckets and Frankfurt led 43-40, then came the mega explosion by the Skyliners as they raced out on a 26-5 run to lead 69-45 and decide the game early. In the run, it was German Roman Bedime who dominated scoring 10 points as he showcased his nice inside/out game adding 2 three´s a lay in and dunk. Mintz also showed his vicious drive to the hole scoring back to back baskets, while Caisin added 5 points and Alleyne a trey. The Skyliners continued to play beautiful team basketball while Science City Jena lost focus as their climb up the mountain and view to the peak looked farther away with every missed opportunity on offense. Jena´s energy was depleted by the overpowering Skyliners game. German Lorenz Bank ended the Skyliners run with a trey and Jena quietly closed out the third quarter with a 9-2 run to trail 73-55. Stuckman also added a lay in while Edwards scored twice. “We stayed in the moment and with the flow of the game. We wanted to make quick stops which would lead to easy transition points. You want to stay with this as much as possible during the game”, added Isaiah Swope. “They hit a lot of three´s. We had too many bad decisions and turnovers which led to easy baskets for them”, said Steve Esterkamp.

Pierre Brooks off balance shot

In the fourth quarter, the Skyliners showed great togetherness and didn´t let down as sometimes is the case when you lead by so much, but instead they won the fourth quarter 21-8 buckling down on defense and didn´t allow the first field goal until the 2,12 minute mark. It took the Skyliners 4 possessions until Isaiah Swope got them on the board first with free throws. The Skyliners continued to be extra tough on defense getting stops as their aggressiveness didn´t allow anything easy for the guests. Swope continued to show his explosiveness scoring 2 three´s in a row as the Skyliners led 81-55. The American led the Skyliners with 16 points and as usual was as humble as could be about his game. “I´m just so appreciative to be here for year 2. The opportunities overseas are either there or not. I always feel good when anyone makes shots”, smiled Isaiah Swope. At the 4,58 minute mark, Skyliners head coach Klaus Perwas inserted the young kids Jamie Edoka and Ivan Crnjac. Jena finally got on the board with a Tanner Stuckman free throw to trail 83-56. Ex Ulm guard Tommy Klepeisz finally got on the board hitting a trey for the 86-56 lead. Jena continued to get to the free throw line as Edwards made one free throw and then ex Arizina (NCAA) guard Ira Lee made free throws, but Jena still trailed 86-59. Ex NBA player Ryan Arcidiacono then added a pretty floater from the right wing scoring his first BBL points to lead 88-59. Stuckman then gave Jena it´s first field goal of the fourth quarter as 7,48 minutes had already expired. Ivan Crnjac then got a friendly bounce hitting a trey from the wing and Swope ended the game with another deep three. “We have a good core from last year and good new pieces. We have character and unselfishness. We understand how to keep the pressure up and that is the foundation we want to build this year”, warned Isaiah Swope. “We had open looks that didn´t fall. In the end, it is about how you play. We have to show better character as a team”, warned Steve Esterkamp. “They are a good team. They have a lot of shooters and playmakers. I feel they will have a lot of success”, stressed tanner Stuckman. The Skyliners were led by Isaiah Swope with 16 points. Judah Mintz added 14 points and Roman Bedime 12 points while Science City Jena was led yb Terrence Edwards with 18 points and Jemarl Baker added 11 points. The Skyliners shot 525 form the field and 41% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 14 turnovers while Science City Jena shot 42% from the field and 29% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 27 turnovers.

David Boening(Dragons Rhondorf) Wants To Show More Physicality On the Offensive Rebound And Just Be A Good Role Player

David Boening (205-F-2007) is a 19 year old 204cm forward playing for German Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. Last season he averaged &74 in the NBBL for Team Bonn/Rhondorf and 2/2 in the Pro B. He spoke to germanhoops.com after a pre season loss to Pro A team ETB Miners Essen 97-74.

Thanks David for talking to germanhoops.com. The Dragons Rhondorf sufferd a 97-74 pre season loss to new Pro A team ETB Miners Essen. The team improved after losing both teams last season to them by 42 points and 29 points. What was your summary of the loss?

We gave a really good energy performance. We were lacking that the last games. We fought hard to the end. But they did a good job hitting their three´s.

What positives could you take from this loss?

I feel like we moved the ball really well. We played fast and found good solution and didn´t play 1-1. We also did a good job on the offensive rebounds.

What was your impression of the ETB Miners? Will they stay in the Pro A?

They have incredible shooting power. That will really help them.

As a young player, are you able to soak up things from their experienced players like Craig Moeller?

I watch how they defend me. I also try to adapt a bit to how they defend as well as keeping my style.

What is your impression of the 2026-2027 Dragons Rhondorf? Are they stronger than last season?

That is hard to say. We are different this year. We are a bit younger and like to run more. I like this style. I´m not the most physical so I like using my quickness and running.

What is your impression of new import Sahmi Willoughby who is a beast on the boards?

He is a total hustle player. He will dive for every ball. He is an incredible offensive player that plays inside out. He is a great teammate.

He is supposed to have an amazing character. have you noticed that?

He is a mega nice guy always willing to help you. He is super for the team.

How vital is it for you having an experienced player like Daniel Mayr on board?

He gives so many tips and has seen so much. He understands something about the modern game, but also about older basketball. He is always ready to help you.

How vital will Justin Onyejiaka be? He is the ultimate 2 way player.

He is such a strong defensive player and on offense drives to the rim really well. He will be great at the Pro B level.

What is your role on the team this season?

I play the 5 and my role will to battle for playing time with Daniel Mayr and Benjamin Sadikovic. I will challenge them in practice. I will give the team more quickness at the position 5.

How did your game improve in 2025-2026?

I feel like I improved in all areas last season. I developed and took advantage of becoming a back up center. I increased my physicality. This season, I want to develop my skill set more.

What steps do you want to take with your game in 2026-2027?

I want to be able to showcase my qualities more on the court. I want to show my athleticism more. I want to show my physicality more on the offensive rebound and just be a good role, player.

What is like sharing the court with fellow young player Carlo Schmid? What do you like most about his game?

Carlo will also be a valuable player for us. He is so quick for the position 3-4. He will be able to take mismatches. He can attack, get to the free throw line, hit the three and play good defense.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Carlo Schmid?

He will say himself. I think it would be a big battle, but after many stops, I will win in the end.

Did you watch the 2026 FIBA women´s World Cup? What was your impression of Germany?

I watched a little, but didn´t have so much time. It is cool seeing the German girls take on such a good development.

Thanks David for the chat.

This Season Carlo Schmid(Dragons Rhondorf) Is Focusing On Making As Many Right Decisions As Possible And Become a More Consistent 3 Point Shooter.

Carlo Schmid (202-F-2007) is a 19 year old 205cm forward playing for German Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. Last season for NBBL team Bonn/Rhondorf, he averaged 7/4 and in the Pro B averaged 3/2. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 97-74 loss against Pro A team ETB Miners Essen.

Thanks Carlo for talking to germanhoops.com. The Dragons Rhondorf sufferd a 97-74 pre season loss to new Pro A team ETB Miners Essen. The team improved after losing both teams last season to them by 42 points and 29 points. What was your summary of the loss?

It was a good game for us. We allowed way too many open three´s in the first half. We lifted our game in the second half playing a lot better. We only lost by 23 points.

What positives could you take from this loss?

We did a really good job on the offensive glass. We showed strong improvement in that area in the last games. We also defended better with better communication and rotations.

What was your impression of the ETB Miners? Will they stay in the Pro A?

They have a very strong offense. If they keep shooting the ball so well, they won´t have problems remaining in the Pro A.

As a young player, are you able to soak up things from their experienced players like Craig Moeller?

I watch very closely how these veterans make decisions on the catch. I also watch how quickly they make decisions and execute.

What is your impression of the 2026-2027 Dragons Rhondorf? Are they stronger than last season?

We are good at every position. I won´t say that we are better or worse than last season. We are very hungry to attack the league.

What is your impression of new import Sahmi Willoughby who is a beast on the boards?

He is a very good offensive player that can defend 1-5. But what really stands out is his three pointer.

He is supposed to have an amazing character. have you noticed that?

Yes I have. He is always willing to help you and talks with everyone. He is a super guy.

How vital is it for you having an experienced player like Daniel Mayr on board especially for the young guys?

Even if he didn´t play much last season, he was always at every practice. He has seen so much in his career. He was always giving you tips. On the court he will help us so much. You have to double him in the post which will always leave one of your shooters open.

How vital will Justin Onyejiaka be? He is the ultimate 2 way player.

He will be so important at both ends. He will have many highlight plays at both ends. He is also so dangerous on transition like Juhwon Harris-Dyson was. He will bring his game to another level.

What is your role on the team this season?

My role will be bigger this season. I raised my role at the end of last season going into the playoffs. I have to be versatile on defense, get rebounds and make the open three´s as well as attacking on the catch.

How did your game improve in 2025-2026?

My decision making got better, I got stronger adding a few kilo´s and my shot got better.

What steps do you want to take with your game in 2026-2027?

I want to become a more consistent three point shooter. I also want to be able to make as many right decisions as possible and be a more versatile defender.

What is like sharing the court with fellow young player David Boning? What do you like most about his game?

David always gives 100%. A big advantage in his game is his quickness for his size.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or David Boning?

I win.

Did you watch the 2026 FIBA women´s World Cup? What was your impression of Germany?

I watched Belgium- Germany. Germany can be so proud how far they got. Before the tournament started, no one would have though they would play for the Bronze.

Thanks Carlo for the chat.

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