If you entered the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven arena last Saturday afternoon and saw a bunch of old Eisbaeren players coming together once more to play the game they love in front of their fans for the club 20 year anniversary celebration, you would of seen a player where one could of yelled in excitement ‘Who was that’. There was a 37 year old player who was all the over the court and exploded for 33 points and one could of thought that it was still 2010 or 2011. The still athletic player who still had his impressive offensive game going at full throttle was Torrell Martin (196-SG-1985, college: Winthrop). He played his last professional game in the 2014-2015 season. He was back to play a friendly pick up game with ex teammates like Terrell Everett and Lou Campbell and it seemed like he had never left. He played 3 years in Bremerhaven from 2009-2012 and had many memorable games. I had to back track a bit, but after finding an old article I had written, I came upon a game from November 2011 where he and the Eisbaeren visited Frankfurt and won a defensive battle 63-55 as my title said it all with ‘Torrell Martin doesn’t need to display traffic dunks but shows his taste of Ray Allen’ meaning he can shoot the ball well and doesn’t always need to dunk for the highlight reel. ‘I try to motivate Martin to be like Ray Allen to come off screens and use his athleticism and hit open shots’, warned Jamison Brewer after the game in 2011. Even current Fraport Skyliner legend and lifer Quantez Robertson had his two cents to say about how Martin made massive shots in the last 2 minutes including an in your face jumper and catch and pop jumper to decide the game in favor of Bremerhaven. ‘We were unable to get back on transition defense and Torrell Martin got off some screens and hit easy baskets and got them going at the end’, stressed Quantez Robertson. Even more than a decade later Torrell Martin remembers just how much of a pest Quantez Robertson was. ‘I will never forget Quantez Robertson. He pushed me so hard. I always went hard at him and to see him still playing is a lot of motivation’, stated Torrell Martin. Martin had many great memories as a professional player, but it’s no secret that his 3 best seasons were in Bremerhaven.

Torrell Martin began his basketball career at Airport high school and then had an illustrious career at Winthrop (NCAA) from 2003-2007 winning 3 Big South conference titles and being MVP twice. He also helped lead Winthrop to 3 NCAA tournaments and in his last 3 seasons averaged 14,0ppg and 5,0rpg. After playing NBA Summer League in 2007, he began his professional career with the Orlando Magic, but got cut and then headed overseas and played his rookie season with ASCO Slask Wroclaw (Poland-DBE) averaging 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 69.0%;and played 12 ULEB Cup games averaging 10.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 46.3%, 3FGP: 41.8%, FT: 69.2%. In his second pro season he split time with Kepez Bld Antalya (Turkey-TBL) averaging 13.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 75.0%, and played with Kavala/Panorama (Greece-A1) averaging 10.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 40.0%. Then came his hey day with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven where he played from 2009-2012. Despite playing 3 seasons with them, he only played a total of 74 games as so often in his career, injuries played a role. The most successful season was the first where the team reached the semi-finals losing a tough 5 game series to the Deutsche Bank Skyliners. ‘That team was very special. We were so locked in that season. We just came up a bit short’, remembered Torrell Martin. His last 2 seasons weren’t as successful anymore and he also had more injury woes, but he still had some potent games against teams like ratiopharm Ulm, Alba Berlin and had some huge games against Frankfurt. He definitely will always have the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in his heart. ‘Bremerhaven were the 3 best years in my career and the best city that I played in. Injuries did play a role because I could never give the city my full abilities. But I gave them enough for them to see I gave them all my worth. I wish I could of given the city a championship’, warned Torrell Martin.

If one looks at the rosters of the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in the years from 2009-2012, it is in a way shocking that the club didn’t have more success and were unable to bring a championship to the diehard fans. Martin had incredible teammates every season including some ex NBA players and very skilled German players. He definitely won’t forget those years and his former teammates. ‘I had a great point guard with Lou Campbell and Jeff Gibbs was fire. I had so many other great teammates like Kevin Lyde, Rodney Buford., Brandon Broks, Phil Zwiener and Jan Lipke’, stressed Torrell Martin. He also will never forget how the fans treated him especially after he came home and felt like an MVP. ‘My fondest moment was when I was snubbed of MVP at the allstar game. I had 24 points and 6 dunks but they gave it to Kyle Hines. Much respect to him. He is a monster. I wanted to bring that back to the city. When I came back for the next game the fans were chanting MVP as if I had got it. I really appreciated that’, stressed Torrell Martin. One guy who didn’t return to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 20 year anniversary was jeff Gibbs the smallest center to ever play in the easyCredit BBL as he incredibly is still active and playing his 21st professional season at age 42 and 13th in a row in Japan. ‘He is a warrior. I knew back then that he would play a very long time. He had a different kind of motor. He is the type of guy I compared myself to with that motor’, said Torrell Martin. On the court he also remembered some fierce battles, but his favorite wasn’t against top teams Alba Berlin or Brose Bamberg. ‘Playing BG Goettingen in the playoffs and beating them there in that atmosphere. That whole series was crazy. I loved it. They had some great players and were really fired up. We gave it to them. Shout out to my boys Chris Oliver and Chester Frazier’, added Torrell Martin.

His time with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven came to an end in 2012. After that his resume looks like one of a basketball globetrotter. He played his last 3 years in France for 6 teams like Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA), Entente Orleans 45 (France-ProA), Chorale de Roanne Basket (France-ProA) and Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-ProA). Stat wise one would have concurred that he lost his form as injuries played a role again, but he didn’t see it that way. ‘I did find my form, again. They thought I was done in Germany. It took me about a year to find my coordination again. I took a lot of contracts and played with many teams. At that point of my career with no kids or pressure financially I did what I wanted to do’, remembered Torell Martin. After the 2014-2015 season he surprisingly retired. He was 30 years old and in good shape, but he had other plans. ‘I didn’t feel like I was too young to retire. You start to play very young in the states and then play at college for free. So if you can play 6-7 seasons then it’s very good. My body was shifting and it told me to get the best of life. That is what I did and I was able to build my training company. Incidentally I built up my body while I was building up my company. I stopped playing early so I could chase my other career. My body was tired but not done. I had had a batchelor of theater and went out to California. I wanted to be more than just an athlete.’, warned Torrell Martin who believes that it is ridiculous to compare Jordan and Lebron as for him there will always be 2 GOATS. So what has Torrell Martin been doing with his life since retiring in 2015? He continues to build his training company that in 2023 has branched out to 8 countries. He lives half the year in Spain and the other half at home in the States where he has a fitness center. He also knows that he will be forever be linked to Bremerhaven and the fans even in the future. ‘Stay tuned there is more to come I will be back multiple times each year. I will have craft camp coming out soon as well as an App, so watch out for that. Every day training with me. This is something where people can learn my moves and much more about the game. So you can be an overall better player. I will be selling that on my website’, said Torrell Martin.

Torrell Martin returned back to Bremerhaven, but one thing was definitely different. The club no longer is in the easyCredit BBL something that definitely takes getting used to. It is no secret that when you had your most success as a professional and had your longest stint with an organization, that you will still have ties to everybody involved there. ‘I didn’t follow it to much the last years but I did check in with certain players. The most important thing for me was keeping in contact with the fans. There is new management now so I have become locked in and hope to continue to have a good relationship with them’, stated Torrell Martin. One could of predicted that he would return back in great shape, but that his basketball skills would still be immaculate was something that one didn’t necessarily count on. But one adage that he still had and most American ballers have is their self-confidence. 33 points was definitely not enough for him. ‘I thought I was going to drop 40 points. I scored 33 points and could of scored more, but I opted for some assists. The game was fun. The thing that I enjoyed most was seeing the guys and their families. I still don’t have an immediate family of my own, because I’m still building my dynasty. Being able to see Craig Callahan play in front of his son who was born in Bremerhaven meant a lot to me’, expressed Torrell Martin. Ex opponent John Bynum who played with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven but years before Martin did predicted that Martin would come best in shape and he was right while Martin saw another player in pretty good shape as well. ‘Terrell Everett was in best shape. I wasn’t surprised but more proud. What many don’t know, he and I worked out like crazy before the game. We weren’t playing games, but were very serious’, warned Torrell Martin. He couldn’t play against John Bynum again last weekend, because he was hurt and served as an assistant coach. He also couldn’t dunk during the game. ‘John and I had many battles back then. It would have been fun if we had played together again. I can still dunk really well today. I chose not to dunk in the game because it hurts my body more now when I jump high. That is how I was able to reinvent my game over the years by not having to jump high. But if someone tries me I will dunk on them’, warned Torrell Martin. One thing is for sure Martin’s athleticism and traffic dunks will definitely never be forgotten in Bremerhaven.

Tags : TORRELL MARTIN, CHORALE DE ROANNE BASKET, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Josh Boutte (198-PF, college: Angelo St., agency: BIG) is a forward that is playing his third professional season and first with the EN Baskets Schwelm. Last season he played with the TuS 59 HammStars (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 17.5ppg, Reb-2 (14.1rpg), 1.7apg, FGP: 59.1%, FT: 43.5%. He played his rookie season with MC El Brasil Santa Ana (El Salvador-Liga MB) averaging 20.0ppg, 20.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.7spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 46.1%, FT: 61.1% and played with KB Lipjani (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 13.0ppg, 11.8rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.1%, FT: 31.6%. He began his basketball career with Westgate High School and then played two seasons with Dodge City Community College (JUCO) averaging 16.0ppg, 10.6rpg, FGP: 63.1%, FT: 47.2% and in his second season averaged 16.0ppg, 11.7rpg, FGP: 58.2%, FT: 46.7%. He then played a season with Sam Houston State University (NCAA) averaging 5.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 61.6%, FT: 66.7% and as a senior played with Angelo State University (NCAA2) averaging 7.1ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 52.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about Lebron James becoming the NBA all-time leading scorer. .

Lebron James has beaten Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s NBA all-time scoring record. Did you stay up to watch history?

Most Definitely, my role model as a kid coming up

How does one put this record into perspective best? It stood almost 40 years?

I would say the dedication and the love for the game. Love the game it’s going to show love back

He scored 36 points in 26 minutes. Was it another normal day at the office?

Yes this one he came out with it on his mind like always

How much is that ball going to be worth?

I would say millions!!!

Russell Westbrook made the pass. Do you think that in 20 years the pass could be remembered more than his triple doubles?

No his triple doubles will Always stand out first

His record breaking basket was a step back over Kenrich Williams. Is that the kind of shot you expected knowing the kind of player he is? Or would you have expected a dunk for the spectacular finish?

The step back came in his prime years but the signature Tomahawk would have been icing on the cake

There obviously is a lot of respect for Kareem, by the basketball world, but what would have happened on social media if Lebron had gotten the record with a sky hook shot?

The media would have went crazy! That’s what everyone thought the last shot was going to be

Kareem is such a gentleman. You didn’t grow up with him, but what does his legacy mean to younger guys? Can they even understand what that guy did?


I know he was a humble guy and a walking bucket with those hook shots, no one back then or in today’s era could have stopped him. One of the best legacy ever.

Lebron will have more than 40,000 points when it’s all over. Back in 1984 people said it would never be broken? Will this record be broken?

I think it’s possible

If Luka Doncic continues to play to 40 stays fit and becomes a physical specimen like Lebron, could he dethrone him?

Most definitely but that’s tough because bron spends millions on his body every season

Does this record finally give Lebron the GOAT status over Michael Jordan?

Yes. Lebron never missed a season. That’s tough!

What is your favorite Lebron moment that you witnessed live or on TV?

When he went back and won that championship in Cleveland! And he shouted ‘Cleveland this one for You!!!

Thanks Josh for the chat.

Tags : JOSH BOUTTE, EN BASKETS SCHWELM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

It is no secret with all the incredible shots and passes Luka Doncic has done that he would be crowned Magic. He is on his way to possibly becoming the GOAT, but not only on the court is Doncic incredible, but also off the court he has a big heart for his fans. One could imagine that after having to put up with fans day in and day out in the NBA, that his humbleness and generosity could have waned a bit over the last years, but it hasn’t. No matter where he goes, someone wants a piece of that Luka Magic. It wasn’t any different at the 2022 Euro when he was in Cologne with Slovenia and no matter if before or after the game, he always had time for his fans in front of the team hotel. I witnessed it myself and it isn’t only fans and journalists like myself, but also teammates that are amazed by his humbleness. Imagine coming to Madrid as a 16 year old from Sweden and a year later at age 17 being teammates with Luka Doncic with Real Madrid. That is exactly what happened to Swedish national player point guard Melwin Pantzar (190-PG-2000). He had the unbelievable honor to witness Doncic play his last season in Europe before going over the pond to conquer the NBA. So often you see Luka Doncic sporting that massive smile on photos or on camera where you just wish he could be your best friend. Pantzar was able to experience exactly how humble of a guy he was when he played his first ACB game. ‘Luka was a great teammate. I remember when I made my debut with the first team, he was the one who took a selfie with me after the game and congratulated me. Which was a wonderful gesture. He treated everybody the same way even being a superstar. He tried to help the younger players always’, remembered Melwin Pantzar. Not many guys can boast that they were able to practice with Luka Doncic on a daily basis. I would have guessed his mid range game or passing would have been that are where he would of soaked up the most from. ‘His passing and how he was able to move with his own speed. You can see it today in his game, that he plays at his own pace, which is amazing’, stressed Melwin Pantzar who once guarded him in the World Cup qualifiers when Sweden played Slovenia.

Luka Doncic signing autographs at the 2022 Euro in Cologne

Melwin Pantzar who lists ex NBA player Shane Larkin as his toughest foe in his career besides Luka Doncic was born on April 20th, 2000 in Valsta Sweden. He came to Real Madrid in 2016 and would remain 3 years. In his first season he played with their farm team averaging 5.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg and played also for the junior team. In his second season he finally made his ACB debut and also continued to play for Real Madrid 2 (EBA) and made a massive jump averaging 11.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 85.9%. He had some huge games in the EBA scoring 26 points against Guadalajara and 22 points against Almansa. He also played 3 ACB games playing a total of 33 minutes and scored 4 points in 20 minutes against Gran Canaria. He began that game and for him being nervous was an understatement. ‘Yes I was and still I am. But you just got to play it through’, warned Melwin Pantzar. Americans that come overseas always have a wake up call to being overseas for the first time and for him he obviously had a wake up call to being a member of Euroleague team Real Madrid. ‘It was a dream coming true. Seeing some of the best players in Europe each and every day. It was kind of a shock in the beginning but then you get used to it. My wake up call was when I started to play 1on1 with Sergio Llull’, remembered Melwin Pantzar. In his last season he was able to only get into 5 ACB games and made his Euroleague debut against Baskonia scoring 3 points and dishing out an assist in 8 minutes. His 3 years in Madrid was obviously an eye opening experience and one he will never forget especially learning the art of basketball every day from Spanish national player Sergio Llull. ‘When I left to Real Madrid I wasn’t really a pure PG. But when I came there they tried to teach me more how to take care of the team. When to attack, how to set people up and lead the team. Sergio Llull was the first person I heard about arriving to Spain. And seeing him playing at that level he did when he won EL MVP was just amazing. Always making the clutch shots, a true inspiration’, added Melwin Pantzar‘.

The defensive specialist who lists Facundo Campazzo Dee Bost Sergio Llull Jeffery Taylor and Edy Tavares as his 5 best teammates of all-time then made the move to RAS Monaco Basket (Jeep ELITE ProA). Here he had tough competition once again as he played only 5 Pro A games averaging 3.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2apg while also playing 1 Eurocup game and also playing with their U21 (France-ProA U21) averaging 12.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 5.4apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 77.6%. He even achieved a rare triple double against Le Mans in the youth league. Once again he profited much and remembers 2 people helping him immensely along the way. ‘It was a really good experience, even though cut short due to COVID. But I loved it there, Sasa Obradovic who is an amazing and really demanding coach taught me a lot of things. Especially on the defensive end. It was good for me to play with the U21 team. Norris Cole was a great guy, he tried to help me out when he noticed something I did wrong. He brought positive energy every day’, remembered Melwin Pantzar. He won’t only never forget guys like Doncic, Llull and Cole, but also living in world class cities. ‘Madrid is a really big city, so you could explore it more. I was there for 3 years so I had my restaurants that I got to know with time. Monaco was smaller, but very beautiful, especially the water’, remembered Melwin Pantzar. After playing for top organizations Real Madrid and Monaco, the young Swede took a step back to play with Real Valladolid Baloncesto (Spain-LEB Gold). Sometimes taking a step back later results in being able to take 2 steps forward. So far this decision has paid off as he has continued to raise his game each season and currently is averaging 15,7ppg, 3,5rpg, 3,6apg and 1,8spg. ‘It was the most important decision of my career until now I would say. After almost not playing in my last year in Madrid and just playing a bit in Monaco I really needed to take a step back and enjoy just playing basketball again. I’ve gotten way more confident in my game, had coaches who believed in me, was allowed to make mistake and getting more mature when it comes to reading the game’, stated Melwin Pantzar. Being able to play with against very talented Spanish players as well as in one of if not the best second division overseas has helped him mature and develop further. ‘It’s been a great experience, Spanish players are really smart and read the game very well, which is what I needed to get better at. The league is physical and high pace. I don’t think they really care which country you from, but more how you play the game. I would say Leb Oro is an underrated league. There are people here that I know for sure would be able to play in the highest leagues in Europe. You could see how good the teams are also, for example when teams go down from ACB, how hard it is to go up again’, commented Melwin Pantzar.

The talented guard who has Dwyane Wade LeBron James MJ and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played for all Swedish youth national teams and won the Addidas Next generation tournament in Munich in 2018. ‘A fun memory that I will remember all my life. Playing international at that age was something big. Just seeing how big basketball is and how many big talents Europe have. I would say Goga Bitadze, Deividas Sirvydis and Theo Maledon stood out’, remembered Melwin Pantzar. He has been part of the Swedish national team since 2020 and is a part of a young core of players with Bobi Klintman, Pelle Larson, Elliot Cadeu, and Kenny Photo who are the future of Swedish basketball. Just like with club basketball, he continues to make strides and develop further with the Swedish national team. His minutes and responsibility continue to climb. ‘My role was mostly defensive at the beginning, matching up with the other teams best player. But with time the coaching staff gave me more and more freedom on offense also, setting up my teammates and attacking the rim. I don’t really think about that right now, I’m happy as long as I can contribute and we winning games’, stressed Melwin Pantzar. Just like with Sergio Llull in Madrid, he has found his mentor in Swedish veteran Tobias Borg in the national team. ‘He’s helped me a lot, he’s a real veteran. Always showing up to camp in shape and focused. It’s a pleasure playing and seeing how he tackles every game/practice’, expressed Melwin Pantzar. He had some big games against Israel scoring 18 points and 11 points.

The ex Real Madrid player who believes that Lebron James is the GOAT is a 190cm guard that likes how Euroleague players Pierra Henry and Corey Higgins play. One could compare his game to Milwaukee Bucks point guard Jru Holiday, because he likes to attack the rim, draw fouls and kick out the ball to his teammates and not to forget defends with passion something that gets him hyped before games. His defense is something that often gets his offense going as he loves to run the break. ‘I’m a defender who’s going to try to pressure so my opponent isn’t comfortable, be a bit annoying on ball. If I’m off ball I’m trying to read the attack so I can steal the ball from the weak side most of the time, or on handoffs. I would like to get better at being closer to my man on pin down screens’, warned Melwin Pantzar. He knows that in order to get back to the Euroleague, he will need to make certain adjustments with his offensive game. ‘I’m working mostly on my shooting. 3s, pull up 3s, and of 1on1. I would like to get a better floater also’, stressed Melwin Pantzar. It will be interesting to see where the basketball journey of Melwin Pantzar will go in the next few years. What really is riding in his corner is that he is still so young with 22. One thing that also really stands out is his character. He is a guy that hasn’t taken anything for granted in his career, but is super humble. Not many guys can say they played with Real Madrid and Luca Doncic as a teenager. He knows that getting back to places like that will take continued hard work. ‘I’m really thankful, some days you forget how fortunate you are playing basketball each and every day. It’s a big thing playing for a club such as Real Madrid, it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world, and Monaco which is a kind of up and coming club with great ambition. It was two great experiences’, stressed Melwin Pantzar. It won’t surprise anyone when that really great great next experience comes about.

Jeremy Ingram (183-G-1991, college: AAMU) is a191 cm guard that was born in Alabama and has played his entire professional career in Germany for teams like Speyer, Idstein, Bensheim and recently SG Mannheim.This season he is playing for Regionalliga team Bargteheide. Last season with SG Mannheim he picked up South West Regionalliga player of the year while averaging (32.1ppg), 5.7rpg, 4.2apg, Steals-4 (2.6spg), FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, 9%. He began his career with Enterprise State Community College (JUCO) and then finished with Alabama A&M University (NCAA). He teams up with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber on a weekly basis this season to talk basketball.

Congrats on the convincing 102-87 win over Oldenburg. Was this just another fine day at the office for Bargteheide?

They played very good at home so we are just happy to come away with the win.

Talk a little about he 40 minutes. Was this another game where you were in control for the 40 minutes?

They played us pretty good and hit a lot of shots that kept them in the game but we pretty much controlled this game from start to finish. Shout out to them for the valuable effort they put up.

Outside shooting and taking care of the ball were huge. What other area’s of the team game sparkled?

I think we played great defense at times, especially out on the perimeter. We had twice as many steals as they did so I think we did a pretty good job defensively.

Is it fair to say that the last 2 games were the best back to back offensive performances of the season? Do you feel like the team can continue to sustain this?

I think when we won 4 or 5 straight games in a row was our best stretch this season. But these 2 performances from the last 2 games were also pretty good. I feel like we can if we keep everyone healthy and keep our confidence that we have right now.

You had another explosive game with 39 points. When did you know that you had to take more responsibility than usual?

Well honestly my foot has been feeling a lot better lately so I’m able to do a lot more moves and do more things with the ball than I was able to first coming back from injury. So I have just been more aggressive than usual but my teammates has also stepped up their game also.

You shot the three well and took 9 shots. Were you feeling it early?

Well for the past 3-4 games I have had great explosive first quarters and when I get off to these good starts it’s usually going to be a long night for the other team.

With NBA minutes you could have had a quadruple double. Was this one of your better games this season at both ends?

By far my best overall game of the season, maybe even 1 of my best overall games of my career.

The next game is against top team BG Berlin 2000 and top scorer Shawn Scott. How much are you looking forward to this battle?

Well to be honest I haven’t really saw him play or don’t know much about him but I don’t care who’s in the other jerseys, I’m coming for blood regaardless.

Playing BG Berlin 2000 will be another test. Will the team be ready defensively?


We will prepare all week and we know this game will not be easy but I’m sure our coach will prepare us as well as she can and it’s our job to come out and handle business.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

Tags : JEREMY INGRAM, TSV BARGTEHEIDE, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Christopher Miller (192-G-1993, college: Salem) is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who is playing his eighth professional season and first with GoldCoast Wallabies NLB (2nd League). He played 3 seasons with the Giessen Pointers (Germany-RegionalligaThis season for Bensheim he averaged 19,5ppg, 3,8rpg, 2,0apg and 1,5spg. He has had experience in countries like El Salvador and Bosnia. He recently played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing 8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at Clinton Community College and also played two years at Salem University (NCAA2). This season he teams up with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber with weekly chats about his basketball season.

Congrats on the 89-63 win over Bernex. How is the general feeling always for a player winning again after a loss?


After a loss you want to do what ever you can to get back in the win column. We were very happy with how we came out focused to get this win.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. Did you set the tone from the start or was there a time when Bernex was in the game?

I believe from the start we were focused to do whatever it took to get the win. It started on defense. They played a tough game but we handled their comebacks and played a full team game.

What was the biggest strength for the team, the rebounding or forcing 25 turnovers?

I think it was our defense as a whole. We wanted to force turnovers but also when we couldn’t get steals we focused on defensive rebounds. They were both vital parts.

Michel Bakekolo had an efficient double double. Talk a little about how you have experienced his game this season?

I think Michel has a bright future. He is a talented youth with physical gifts. When it all comes together he will be a great talent for years to come.

You had a strong game with 28 points. How efficient do you feel were you in this game?


I had a goal to be more aggressive this game so I wanted to put more pressure on the defense . I am happy to help the team with my play this game.

You went 12/12 from the free throw line. Were you more aggressive than usual?

I was very aggressive trying to force the issue and luckily I got some calls. I’m happy I took advantage from the stripe.

The next game is against Baehren. How excited are to play a team you haven’t played against yet?


I am always excited to play. I haven’t played against this team yet which can make things more interesting. I am looking forward to next game.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Tags : CHRISTOPHER MILLER, GOLDCOAST WALLABIES, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Gordon Herbert in the Fraport arena

Gordon Herbert (agency: BeoBasket ) is a Canadian/Finish coach who is currently in his 27th year coaching and is head of the German national team. He has a long coaching resume that includes having coached in Finland Austria, Russia and in Germany he coached Wurzburg, Alba Berlin and was with the Fraport Skyliners for more than a decade. He also coached the Canadian national team and was active with the Toronto Raptors and Brooklyn Nets. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the German national team in 2023

Thanks Gordie for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats again on winning the bronze medal at the 2022 Euro. Has your life just changed a tad since that overwhelming success?

No not really. It was a great experience. I loved the commitment that we got from the coaching staff, players and organization as a whole. We would never have had that success without that commitment. I already had a really good feeling last June about the Euro. It was amazing getting that commitment from Dennis Schroeder, Isaac Bonga and Joe Voigtmann despite not having contracts to play in the June window. They wanted to play. That showed commitment.

What do you remember going through your head right when the buzzer sounded and you had helped guide Germany to the Bronze medal?

I was relieved that we could win the Bronze. After losing to Spain, the farthest we could go was to win the Bronze and we did that. It was really disappointing to lose to Spain.

Your phone must have been flooded with congratulatory messages after winning the Bronze medal. Do you remember getting a message from someone where you wouldn’t have expected it?

I really can’t remember. I got so many messages.

Germany won it’s first medal in 17 years. How high does one have to rate this success?

That is hard to answer. 17 years ago, German had won a silver with Dirk Bauermann and Dirk Nowitzki. I think it was great to win a medal on home soil. Dennis Schroeder and Johannes Voigtmann have given tremendous leadership on and off the floor. I have seen a boom in Germany now. We have a great group of guys and want to make another step. I really enjoy working for the federation and with the people from the federation. The players, staff and support staff have been outstanding. I feel 10 years younger

Do you feel pressure going to the 2023 World Championships? Is there a different pressure for you as coach than for the team?

I really haven’t thought about it. I have been totally been focused on this window. I haven’t talked to the NBA or Euroleague guys about the summer. Most important now is the guys playing this window get 100% attention.

How much of a joy is it for you to face Finland? How is the state of Finish basketball at the moment?

It is great that Finland is also qualified for the 2023 World Cup. The federation has done a great job with the program. Guys like Shawn Huff and Petteri Koponen have done a lot over the years for the success. Even if I have lived in Finland most of the time, I really have no connection to Finnish basketball. I don’t even really go watch games in Finland. I go to ice hockey games.

We have to talk about some of the nominated players. Have you been surprised how much of a minor role Johannes Voigtmann has played in Milan?

I didn’t count on Joe coming for this window. He would have been available had we had to qualify, but we were qualified. I thought it was great that he called me and asked if he could play even after he started playing more with Milan. He really showed commitment that he wants to play. It is great for the young guys to have a true professional like Joe around. He has great values in life. It is great that the young guys can see how he conducts himself on a daily basis.

You have selected Dylan Osetkowski as a first timer. How did his nomination come about. Had he been on the radar for a longer time?

Dylan isn’t coming. He played 3 games in a row in Spain and hurt his back. He asked me last summer if he could play in the Nov window, but we were already committed to Nick Weiler-Babb. So he was set to be on board now until his injury happened.

How have you seen the development of Joshua Obiesie? He has been playing for a losing team. Is that more positive or negative for his development?

That is hard to say. He has a pretty good role with Frankfurt. He has had some big offensive games. He is a big talent with a big future ahead of him.

How have you seen the development of Jason George. How beneficial has the move been to Chemnitz and being able to play under Rodrigo Pastore?

They play really good Euro basketball in Chemnitz. Other young guys like Nelson Weidemann and Jonas Richter have developed well under Pastore. Jason is long and athletic. He didn’t play much with Munich but has the chance to grow in Chemnitz. Most important for him and any other young player is that he needs to make a big investment himself.

How big is the future of Justus Hollatz? He is getting good minutes in the ACB. How good are the chances for him to take over for guys like Schroeder and Lo as they leave the national team sometime in the future?

I see him becoming a future starter in the national team. I think he made a huge step last summer. It helped that he was around guys like Dennis Schroeder and Maodo Lo. I made him captain for this window. He is poised and confident and reads the game really well. He also has great size and is a great kid. He is even a better person than player. It is great being around him. He has a tremendous future ahead of him. I see him as a future Euroleague player.

How intense do you follow the German players playing overseas in college? How have you seen the development of Tristan Da Silva? He has been on fire recently?

To be honest I don’t follow that too much. Our other coaches follow that. I know that currently we have 3-4 kids that are doing really well. I hope that we can get some of them involved this summer with a sort of A-2 national team.

Was FC Bayern Munich’s winning the 2023 BBL cup the best example that you can never rule out this team despite not having a great season this season?

I wasn’t surprised that they won and came to play. Losing to Hamburg was the best thing that could happen to them. They have had a lot of injuries and not had many practices. You get better with adversary. They are good now, but they will be really good when they can all practice together and get healthy.

Now that Lebron is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Where is he in the debate for GOAT?

I’m the wrong person to ask. Your going to have to ask Tez.

Thanks Gordie for the chat.

Matthew Meredith (200-SF-2000) is a 22 year old 200cm guard under contract with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He began his basketball career with the Nurnberg Falcons playing a total of 78 Pro A games and played his first Pro A game at age 14. He played the last 2 seasons with the Fraport Skyliners playing 7 BBL games and 41 Pro B games averaging 10.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 57.8% and in his second season averaged: 18.3ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 86.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2022-2023 season.

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

Hey, I am right now in Croatia enjoying the life there and working out there with my individual coach and working on my athleticism.

After 2 years in Frankfurt you have moved to the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. How is Matt Meredith a different and better player now then in September 2020?

Overall my shooting has improved compared to back then. I am more confident in what I do on and off the court and my body feels way better than it was in 2020. Back then my surgery with my achilles was still bothering me, but its definitely better now.

Obviously the Bayer Giants Leverkusen have had great results in the last years and head coach Hansi Gnad has played a large role. Was it a no brainer choosing to play for the 1993 Euro champion?

Hansi is a great Character. I talked to some guys who played for him and they all said the same that he is a great guy. I hope that I can learn a lot from his experience and that he helps me become a better player.

What impressed you most about Hansi Gnad in your talks and what about his basketball philosophy is most appealing?

He has a very funny side that he likes to show. Basketball philosophy wise he really takes care that the Team has a good chemistry and that everybody gets along well.

In 2017-2018 you were playing your second full pro A season with Nurnberg and Kameron Taylor took a step back from the Pro A to play pro B in Rhondorf. A few years later via the BBL he became a Euroleague player. Is your step back to the Pro A a move that you hope will get you back to a higher league?

For sure I hope that it helps me, but first overall I want to become a good player in the Pro A and help my team to win as many games as possible.

Let’s talk about your game. I called you the German white Devin Booker last season and your ex teammate and NBA player Ishmail Wainwright has compared you to Michael Carter Williams. Are there any other players that you could compare your style to?

Yeah I really like those comparisons haha, but both are really good players to be compared with. People always like to say Luka Doncic a little bit, but this guy is on another Level really.

You can really fill the stat sheet very well. How big of a role does versatility play in your game?

I just try to give the team what it needs if they need me to make a play for my teammmates I will do that, if the team needs me to score I will do that. I want to work on every aspect of my game, because you can’t have a lot of deficiencies at the highest level.

I had already liked your passing game early in your career. How do you feel did your playmaking develop in Frankfurt and could you ever average 4-5 assists per game?

I often have the feeling that other people underrate my passing skills. I really like to pass, probably even more than to score. In Frankfurt it was probably more necessary that I make a basket instead of passing the ball, so hopefully my passing game will improve.

You can guard many positions thanks to your height. Where do you see your defensive game now and where do you want to bring it in the next years?

With my size I can defend multiple positions, but sometimes I am a step slow on my feet so defenders can beat me. So I try to work on that, to get especially lateral quicker in the future, so I can defend quicker players too.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to make steps in your game?

Especially like you mentioned defensively and to become faster. But overall I work on every aspect of the game because there is still a lot of room to improve.

You had many explosive games in the Pro B last season including 2 against FC Bayern Munich. How much will that 28 points stay in your memories? What do you remember from that game?

I really shot well from 3 point range, I think I also made the most 3s in this game of the season. They were playing a zone and I wanted to punish them for that.

You played 7 BBL games and hit a three in a blow out loss against Alba Berlin. Do you feel like you got a fair chance from Diego O’Campo? I feel there were quite a few games decided early and still you didn’t come in for at least garbage minutes.

I hoped I would play more too, but at the end it was the decision of the coach and I can’t do anything about that. He gave me the chances at the beginning of the season and I didn’t use them well enough. But I learned a lot just from the games I played.

You began your career in Nurnberg and played your first pro A game at age 14 against Chemnitz. What memories do you have of that game? Did you have fear?

I was really scared when the coach called my name. But I thank him a lot that he gave me the chance to play at that level at this age. The game was so fast for me I couldn’t really keep up, I think I even got halfway posterized on a defensive possession. So I was trying to just not mess up.

In that first season you were teammates with veteran American guards Braydon Hobbs and Josh Young. What do you remember from their leadership?

Braydon was really good in leading and dictating the game on the court, I tried to learn a lot of his passing game and the court vision he has. Josh is a really nice guy, I really appreciated how he gave me an advice for everything and how he was there for everybody that’s what I really liked about him and he often drove me home after practice, I really appreciated that.

You were teammates with Ishmail Wainwright when he was a rookie in 2018-2019. If someone had told you that in a few years he would be a NBA player what would you have thought?

I probably wouldn’t believed that. But Ishmail always had the physical tools to play on that level. So I am really happy for him that he made it to the league. He always worked hard and was one of the first in the gym and I think at the end of the day his work just paid off.

What was your fondest memory with Ishmail Wainwright? He remembers this about you. ”We walked all the way out into the ocean on some tree trunk. I still have the video I think. I was hoping he would fall in to be honest because I would’ve been dying laughing’.

Oh yeah I remember that, he probably wasn’t the only one in the team who wanted to see me fall. I remember always the one alley oop pass I gave him. It was probably also one of my first alley oop passes that looked really nice. At the moment I thought I threw the ball to high and he wouldn’t catch it. But he got up really high and threw it down impressively.

You were teammates with Nils Hassfuerter for many years in Nurnberg and watched him develop into a BBL player with Wurzburg. What do you remember from your battles with him in practice and do you feel like a certain competiveness to make it back to the BBL and play against him again?

He always created really well advantages for his size and he has a really beautiful shot. He always played really controlled in his own pace, that’s what I tried to take from his game. It would be cool if we would play again in the BBL league as opponents or maybe even together, but we will see how everything develops, first I want to play a good season in the Pro A.

You played 6 seasons in Nurnberg and played 78 Pro A games. Why do you feel didn’t you blossom into an impact Pro A player there?

I think I didn’t listen to the people who knew the game better then me and I thought I knew everything already. Because of that I stopped to improve and tried to make everything on my own, which is obviously not the right way. That’s why Frankfurt probably helped me to start listening again and ask people for help to improve.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Matthew Meredith in the BCM in Frankfurt in 2021

How do you feel did you grow under head coach Ralph Junge? What was the most important thing that you gained under his guidance?

At the beginning of my years, I really improved a lot under him. Especially he taught me good foundations for my shot and let me be creative on the court. But then I think I was the problem a little bit, because I didn’t wan to listen to his advice and because of that my development stagnated. But I really appreciate how early he let me practice with the pros, I really learned a lot from that.

Who was the toughest player that you ever played against that reached the NBA?

For sure Ish Wainright, he is a really good defender and he always made it really hard for me to score against him. It was always a fight against him.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Braydon Hobbs, Matt Mobley, Rasheed Moore, Ishmail Wainright, Robert Oehle

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Luka Doncic, Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird

What is your opinion of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

Tough to say, but I probably think Jordan, because he was mentality wise and how he moved on the court on another level.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I don’t even remember. But I started to watch the series Naruto, because of my old roommate Alexander Richardson, so that’s what I lately watched that I can remember.

Thanks Matthew for the chat.

Tags : MATTHEW MEREDITH, BAYER GIANTS LEVERKUSEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

The path to the playoffs continues to be a very exciting one in the Pro B north for the Dragons Rhondorf as the weeks of truth continue as not only is home court vital, but just making the playoffs will be no cake walk. The Dragons Rhondorf came into the contest against the BSW Sixers with a 10-7 record, but only 2 wins more than the 9th placed team RheinStars who wouldn’t make the playoffs if they began today. Every game is a must win and the games as of late have been against tough competition as they ran out of gas in Bernau and next faced the 15-3 Sixers. Rhondorf lost the first game in Sandersdorf 87-78 despite a good three point percentage, their 18 turnovers was a big thorn in their side. The Dragons Rhondorf were seeking revenge against the powerful Sixers team who give up 63 points per game and are led by Mr triple double Dontae Nicholas. On Carnival weekend, there were many fans dressed in crazy outfits and they also witnessed a crazy game as there were countless technical fouls and an incredible come back by the Dragons Rhondorf who were down by 15 to start the fourth quarter, but never gave up pulling out the 97-90 victory. ‘We fought until the end. Many teams would of given up down by 15 points. We didn’t want to disappoint our fans. We knew that their point guard Kovacevic steered their game well so we tried to make our zone compact so he had less options. But key was our fighting spirit’, warned Dragons Rhondorf guard Mubarak Salami. The BSW Sixers experienced the classic we played well for 3 quarters and stunk up the fourth quarter. ‘We just went away from our game and played bad basketball. They are a good team and took advantage of our mistakes. They were able to play their game and run at their pace’, stressed Mr triple double Donte Nicholas.

Donte Nicholas at the FT line

2 runs were the story of the first quarter as at the end of 10 minutes the BSW Sixers led by 3 poinst. The BSW Sixers had the 4-2 lead, but a three pointer by Nicolas Buchholz gave the Dragons Rhondorf gave them the first lead at 5-4. But the game then took a sudden quick change as the BSW Sixers went on a brutal 12-0 run to lead 16-5. In the run it was the 2 man wrecking crew of 20 year old versatile wing player Kristaps Kilps from Latvia and ex Iserlohn forward Donte Nicholas that combined for all the points. Kilps added 5 points and a trey while Nicholas added 6 points. The guests did a good job with back door cuts and defensively were aggressive getting into passing lanes and causing turnovers. The Dragons Rhondorf did a great job on the offensive glass, but couldn’t execute on extra possessions. But the Dragons Rhondorf then rebounded well from the Sixers run and closed out the first quarter with a 12-6 run to trail only 22-19. In the run the Dragons received solid support from Devon Goodman (184-PG-1997, college: Pennsylvania) who was in constant attack mode scoring 6 points with his quickness getting into the zone while ex Bonn forward Florian Koch added a jumper and Salami hit an off balance shot at the buzzer. ‘A mistake we have done this season is going into games not focused. We had problems containing Kilps. We were too deep in the zone and left him open too much and he overpowered us’, stated Mubarak Salami. ‘We jump on teams early. That is just what we do. We have to learn to sustain the urgency’, warned Donte Nicholas. The BSW Sixers shot 53% form the field and 33% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 13% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Mubarak Salami at the FT line

The BSW Sixers controlled the game in the second quarter and led by as much as 18 points and were able to withstand some little Dragon comebacks and lead by 14 points at the break. The BSW Sixers totally steam rolled the Dragons Rhondorf going on a lethal 16-2 run to begin the second quarter to lead 38-21. In the run the guests continued to get incredible support from Kilps who scored 7 points including 2 three’s, while ex Dragon Ralph Hounnou added 5 points and Nicholas and Kovacevic added lay in’s. Rhondorf was unable to find an identity on defense and played with little intensity. They had huge difficulty defending the Sixers closeouts and on offense couldn’t hit anything. But basketball will always be a game of runs as the Dragons retreated going on a 9-1 run to trail only 39-30. They got a clutch trey from Salami and a pull up from Goodman and lay in from ex Cuxhaven center Florian Wendeler. But Rhondorf was unable to ultimately get over the hump as the Sixers offense was a well polish machine. Kovacevic continued to be a pest at both ends of the court making a floater and dunk for the 43-32 lead. 2018 JBBL champions of Alba Berlin Hendrik Warner scored twice with a lay in on the pick and roll and Evans Rapieque made a trey and the Sixers had a comfortable lead again of 48-32. Rhondorf then showed some instant energy again with a 7-0 run with a Goodman lay in, Koch three and Wendeler put back to trail 50-39, but as usual couldn’t hold it allowing a 4-0 run as Kovacevic made a lay in and Moritz Schneider free throws to lead 54-39. ‘Our game plan was to be aggressive. We took advantage of their poor 1-1 defense as best we could’, commented Donte Nicholas. ‘I think we aren’t a bad 1-1 defensive team. The problem is we aren’t concentrated early which puts us in a hole’, commented Mubarak Salami. The BSW Sixers shot 63% from the field and 71% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 18% from the three point line and had 9 turnovers.

Kristaps Kilps lay in

In the third quarter the BSW Sixers continued to control the game but the Dragons Rhondorf wouldn’t give up and always remained in striking range. The Dragons Rhondorf finally found their shooting touch from downtown getting 2 three’s from Florian Koch and one from Buchholz, but they still couldn’t get over the hump as their defense continued to let them down. The Dragons allowed 3 buckets inside from German Marco Rahn, Ralph Hounnou and Kilps where there was no 1-1 defense existent. Kilps then got a technical foul and a flagrant foul made him have to depart the game for good. A Salami lay in and free throw cut the Sixers lead to 62-51. One would have thought that KIlps departure would of weakened the Sixers, but it didn’t. It helped the Dragons self-confidence as they played with urgency getting a big trey from Buchholz and Salami free throw to trail only 69-60. The Sixers had real misfortune missing easy shots while the Dragons contained Nicholas well and rebounded well. But the BSW Sixers remained calm and continued to play their game and went on a 9-3 run to lead 78-63 after 30 minutes. In the run the Sixers got 2 baskets from Nicholas and 5 points from Rahn. ‘Losing Kilps hurt us. He is a great scorer and defender. I think that we still were in control until the refs took over’, expressed Donte Nicholas. ‘I think with Kilps out was the beginning of the end for them. They got many calls from the refs. But our winning mentally kept us strong and in game’, added Mubarak Salami. The BSW Sixers shot 57% from the field and 55% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 42% from the field and 31% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Zaba Bangala lay in

The Dragons Rhondorf made a furious comeback in the fourth quarter and finally got over the hump and preserved the win. The Dragons Rhondorf began the fourth quarter exploding with a 16-1 run to dead lock the game at 79-79. Salami began the run with back to back three’s testing his weak 27% from outside while Koch added a lay in. Rhondorf demonstrated solid inside out basketball and Bangala scored twice on the pick and roll as Goodman served up two dimes and Goodman scored on transition. The Dragons Rhondorf heightened their defense clogging the zone and not allowing the Sixers to finding good options and shots. The Sixers had to force more which led to 9 stops. But the BSW Sixers also had big misfortune seeing shot after shot go in and out or around the toilet bowl. The BSW Sixers finally scored their first field goal of the fourth quarter at the 4,10 minute mark as Rahn made a turn around shot for the 81-79 lead. The guests then found some energy getting the 86-79 lead, but the Dragons continued to keep pace. Bangala got to the free throw line and after starting 1/6 from the line hit 3 of 4 to trail only 87-82. But then came the Devon Goodman show as he wasn’t good, good, good, but great as he led his team on a 10-1 run scoring all 10 points to lead 92-88 and they would never look back. ‘He was a strong leader. He made key decisions and shots’, stressed Mubarak Salami. BSW Sixers head coach Christoph Schreiber then got a technical foul. The Dragons Rhondorf closed out the game with 4 Salami free throws. ‘We stepped up our defense and made every pass difficult and had a compact zone. We also made it tough for Nicholas and Rahn in the zone’, added Mubarak Salami. ‘We were 5-0 in fouls to start. They play their game well, but it wasn’t anything crazy. We couldn’t make our quick pass, which made it difficult for us. Then we began to miss easy shots. It was a snow ball effect and they got back into the game’, stated Donte Nicholas. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Devon Goodman with 28 points and 11 assists. Mubarak Salami added 25 points. Florian Koch added 18 points and Nicholas Buchholz had 12 points while the BSW Sixers were led by Kristaps Kilps with 20 points and Donte Nicholas had 17 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 48& from the field and 37% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 19 turnovers while the BSW Sixers shot 46% from the field and 33% form outside and had 33 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

John Bynum (191-G-1978, college: MSU Denver) is a 44 year old ex player that enjoyed a stellar 11 year professional career overseas. He began his college career at the College of the Sequoias Junior College and then finished at Metropolitan St. (NCAA2) winning the division 2 title as a senior. He turned professional in 2002 and played most of his career in Germany playing 132 games in the BBL for teams like Bremerhaven, Paderborn and Trier. He also played for Grevenbroich, Heidelberg, Crailsheim and Chemnitz. He also played in England and Norway. He returned back to Germany to participate in an exhibition game where his former team the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven celebrated their 20 year anniversary. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his return to Bremerhaven and basketball.

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

Right now, I’m living in the bay area in California and life is great. I am running a basketball news and scouting service that covers California junior college basketball and just enjoying time with the family.

You retired from the game in 2013. What have you been doing with your life since you retired?

Since I retired it took a little bit to find myself for sure as basketball was always there. For the first couple of years, I started a basketball news service for junior college basketball until 2019 and then I went back to my alma mater where I coached college basketball as an assistant coach at MSU Denver and then after two years of coaching I went back to my news service called Signal The Light Basketball (www.stlball.com).

You are returning back to an old stomping ground Bremerhaven where you played early in your career from 2005-2007. With what kind of feelings are you returning back?

It is awesome to be back as it makes me feel appreciated to even acknowledge players that were part of the tradition within Bremerhaven. The city always had a special place for me as they gave me my first chance to compete in the BBL so I am always grateful to the organization so it is a blessing to say the least.

The club is celebrating it’s 20 year anniversary. You may be 44 turning 45 soon, but why are you a coach? Granted many guys are younger, but seeing you play would have been nice.

I wish I could play but I recently have had trouble with my back (and I’m old), and discovered I had a herniated disc. I am doing stuff for my back at the moment to just get it better so playing was the last thing on my mind but the club was nice enough to let me come over and be part of this celebration as a coach so it should be fun to be on the sidelines in a different way taking part in the game

After paying your dues in Grevenbroich and Norway, you made the jump to the BBL in 2005. How important were these 2 years for you early in your career? Who knows how your career may have gone had you continued to play in the second Bundesliga?

My early years before I got to Bremerhaven were huge as it gave me confidence to know that I could be a professional player in Europe. I had sat out a whole year after my last season to finish my degree and being a division 2 college player people always questioned if I was good enough so my first two years I used that as motivation and wanted to try and show my skill and I had a couple of coaches that gave me a lot of freedom to showcase my talent and luckily I had a couple good games against Bremerhaven and they remembered me and I was able to catch on and get a chance at showcasing my talent in the BBL.

Talk about the 2 years in Bremerhaven. It must have been an amazing time for everyone. The club had moved up and instantly became a playoff team. What was the secret to the success?

Yea it was a special time in Bremerhaven for sure as I don’t recall a lot of teams moving up and making the playoffs in their first season being in the league. I think the secret was we had a very talented group for one and secondly all of the players here played their roles and did what was needed for the team and third Saranus put all of us in position to be successful and win some games which we were fortunate to do.

One game I can remember is Brian Jones buzzer beater in Frankfurt. But you didn’t play in that game. But you surely won’t forget scoring 17 points in a tough 71-69 loss to Alba Berlin

Yes I hadn’t signed yet with the team but Brian was a big part of our success that we had that season for sure. Yes that was a game for me that actually gave me confidence that I could contribute at the BBL level. As I said before, coming from the Regionalliga and being a division 2 college player there was always doubt coming from people but that game for me proved to me that I was good enough to be a solid role player in the BBL.

You played with so many great guys that will be back on Saturday like Nick Jacobson or Judson Wallace. Was there one guy in particular from your Bremerhaven years that you have the fondest memory of?

I got to play with some great players in my two years in Bremerhaven and all of my teammates were great, but I would say Brian Jones, RT Guinn and Andre Bynum were guys that I had great friendships with. RT, Dre and I spend a lot of time together and made a lot of great memories when we were in the north of Germany.

There some great guys that will be playing in the 20 year anniversary game. If you had to guess which guy will be in the best shape and who in the worst who would you say?

It will be interesting for sure but I would probably say Torell Martin and the guy in the worse shape would be anyone who is older than myself lol

If someone had told you in 2006 that RT Guinn would still be playing professionally in 2023 what would you have said?

Honestly, I’m not surprised at RT still playing as he seemed like he was always in cruise control when he played here. RT was going to have a long career because he was almost 6-10 and could shoot threes better than guards and played within himself. Its good seeing him still do it but more important is seeing how good he is with his family and he has always stayed that same person I knew from when we played.

After a few years in the Pro A, you played 2 more years in the BBL with Trier. You were 1-3 against Bremerhaven. In your first season you lost games by 1 point and 2 points. How do you remember those games?

Honestly Miles, I really don’t remember the games we played against Bremerhaven. I know that the fans welcomed me both times but don’t remember the result but as I said before it was always good coming back here as the fans always showed support to guys that had been here before.

How have you followed the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven over the years? Has it surprised you that they haven’t been able to return back to the BBL?

I take a look at the standings every now and then but I don’t pay attention that much. I have a nephew who plays in Denmark where I focus on the standings there more than anywhere in the world. I am surprised that they are in the PRO A but hopefully they can get back to the BBL in the near future.

Do you sometimes wonder how your career could go if you came up in today’s day and age? How would you have done in today’s game with all the changes that have happened?

I mean of course you wonder, but at the end of the day I played in a different era and had a little bit of success in my game. As far as my game today, I don’t know how much I could help on the offensive end as I wasn’t the best shooter from behind the three point line so I could be a liability for a team but at the end of the day I think the rule changes benefit guys these days at the offensive end so I may have had some success in certain situations.

Who won a 1-1 in 2006 and who would win today between you and Nick Jacobson?

I would have say Nick, I mean he was an allstar in 2006 so he has that advantage for sure and now he would still win as well. I mean Nick was one the best shooters I had the chance to play on the same team as and if he had an open look he was not going to miss.

Is Lebron now the GOAT since he has become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer?

I mean he Lebron has an argument but he is not my GOAT but with that being said I think that Lebron James is the best all around player that this game has saw.

Thanks John for the chat.

Tags : JOHN BYNUM, NEW ELEPHANTS GREVENBROICH, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Tanner Leissner in Frankfurt in 2022

Tanner Leissner (201-PF-1995, college: UNH) is a 27 year old 201 cm forward playing his 5th professional season and third in Germany first with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Previously he played in Ehingen and Ludwigsburg and also played in countries like Turkey and Lithuania. He began his basketball career at Judson high school and then at the University of New Hampshire (NCAA) from 2014-2018. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2023 easyCredit BBL cup weekend.

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

I am currently in Oldenburg, basketball life is treating me well. Excited for the cup final four, and the second half of the season.

Your playing your first season with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. How has the league changed on the court since your days in Ludwigsburg?

I think the league is more competitive, top to bottom. Every game is a battle and a dog fight. Any given night if you don’t bring it your team can lose.

The club is playing an excellent season. New head coach Pedro Calles is proving again no matter where he is, he can bring success. What has it been like playing for him?

It’s been a great experience for me. I have learned more this year than I have in any year playing basketball before. Pedro has a very detail oriented and strict system that he implements, while also giving his players confidence and freedom to play their game.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg have put together a potent roster and are defending better than past seasons. What other factors do you feel have helped bring a new wining trend?

We have a very close knit team. We are not just a group of coworkers, I really feel like we have established a family like culture this year. I don’t think I have ever played on a team that is this close before. When you have that to fall back on especially in hard stretches of a game or even a season it helps us battle adversity and keep the team together.

You played against Rickey Paulding when you were with Ludwigsburg. Have you felt this season that something very strong is missing in the organization?

It is definitely noticeable that the long time Oldenburg legend is missed by the organization and city. But as a team and staff that is new to the club, it is not as noticeable on the court.

What has been like working together with Owen Klassen on a daily basis. How has the club profited best from his game?

It has been great working with Owen. He is a great person and a great player. He leads by example and is an intricate part of this team. Owen’s basketball IQ and experience are top tier. There isn’t one specific thing, Owen is pivotal to the club on and off the court.

You have played with many talented point guards over your career and have another one with Dwayne Russell. What do you appreciate most about his presence and does he get lost a little in the talent pool of point guards in the BBL?

Dwayne is a great guard but an even better person, he always has a smile on his face. I’d have to say I appreciate his competitiveness the most. Whenever we’re in practice Dwayne is always trying to win and pushes everyone else to get better. I wouldn’t say he gets lost in all the talent, but he definitely doesn’t always get the recognition or the appreciation he deserves.

Your playing another solid season. How is your role in Oldenburg compared to how you functioned under John Patrick in 2018-2019?

I would say it is pretty similar. In both situations I am used to stretch the floor as a big offensively, and play hard on defense. I played more as the 5 in Ludwigsburg, as opposed to playing primarily the 4 in Oldenburg.

How beneficial is it for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg to know that the last time the club hosted the cup top 4 in 2015, they won the title? Do guys know that?

I did not know that, but that is impressive. I don’t think it is beneficial though. It’s beneficial to play at home in front of our great fans. This season is different than past seasons and we are going to do our best and see what happens.

How excited are you to be playing against your ex team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg? The club is totally different from your time there.

I am excited to play against Ludwigsburg again. They are a different team than in years past but they play a similar style of basketball. Especially coming off of the recent game against them I know it’s going to be a tough battle. As a competitor I look forward to it.

They hauled in a very talented forward with Justin Johnson. Is this another battle your confident of winning?

He is a very talented player for Ludwigsburg. He is one of the key players for the team and I look forward to the battle.

What memories do you have of the 75-71 win over the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg? Oldenburg had 6 turnovers more and Oldenburg had 11 more free throws. Where was this game lost?

We had a very bad first half in Ludwigsburg, we turned the ball over a lot in that half. I remember we were also out rebounded on the offensive glass. That game just came down to a few plays at the end of the game, which could of went either way.

The MHP Riesen are one of these teams that are unpredictable. Is that what makes them more dangerous?

That definitely makes them a more dangerous team. They have shown spurts of great basketball and proven they can beat any team in the league, including Bonn and Bayern.

There have been rumors that John Patrick might take over the Hamburg Towers. Could he turn around that sinking ship?

Coach Patrick is a great coach, and is showing that with his team in Japan this year. It is hard to say because coming into any situation half way through the year is tough. If anyone can do it, it’s him.

Is Lebron James now the GOAT over Jordan since he owns the NBA scoring record?

This is always a tough debate, but since I have gotten to see Lebron play at such a high level my whole life I’d have to say yes.

Thanks Tanner for the chat.

Tags : TANNER LEISSNER, EWE BASKETS OLDENBURG, GERMAN BASKETBALL