A little more than 3 months ago the Fraport Skyliners Juniors and EPG Baskets Koblenz met in the first game of the season as on paper it looked like David and Goliath as Koblenz had players with 400 plus pro A games experience and 100 plus easyCredit BBL games while Frankfurt had a team with many NBBL (U-19) players. Frankfurt gave a spirted fight losing by 13 points and began the season off on the wrong foot losing it’s first 3 games, but since then have found their groove and won 8 of the last 10 games. The EPG Baskets Koblenz on the other hand have almost had a spotless season losing only to Hanau which was a real nail bitter loss. In the first months they were blowing teams away left and right, but in the last weeks have had to fight extra hard to grind out wins. Both teams met in Frankfurt and this time the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had more experienced guys and looked a lot better on paper than in Koblenz, but they couldn’t figure out to play well for 40 minutes. They hung with Koblenz in the first half, but got shell shocked in the second half 55-26 losing easily 85-62. ‘We were able to win the rebound battle in the first half and stop their fast break play something we then couldn’t do in the second half. They defended us a lot closer in the second half and we couldn’t rebound as well. Koblenz beat us with their individual class’, stated 2018 JBBL champion Nolan Adekunle. The EPG Baskets played a solid first half, but really stepped up their game in the second half and demonstrated just how lethal their offense can be. ‘We began slow and Frankfurt played very strong. They hit a lot of shots in the first half and our 1-1 defense wasn’t good. We showed our individual class in the second half and raised our defense. Our 1-1 play on offense was strong. We showed just how unpredictable we can be because everyone can contribute’, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz forward Brian Butler.

Nolan Adekunle from outside

The EPG Baskets were missing Dominique Johnson and Moritz Huebner while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were without the 2 centers Jordan Samare Alex Richardson as well as Philipp Hadenfeldt, Justin Onyejiaka and Marco Voeller. The EPG Baskets Koblenz got on the board quickly with a basket inside from ex Bremerhaven center Moses Poelking, but that didn’t faze Frankfurt. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors waisted no time breaking out on a 8-0 run to lead 8-2. In the run, Frankfurt got 2 untypical dunks from sniper Felix Hecker who showed his athleticism as well as a lay in by reserve center Liam Oneil and a lay in by Adenkunle. But basketball will always be a game of runs as the EPG Baskets Koblenz responded with a brutal 13-3 run to lead 15-11. In the run the guests showed how versatile they can be as they shared the ball and got contribution from many. Poelking made a lay in, ex Weissenhorn player Brian Butler a 15 footer and Alani Moore and Leon Friederici (190-SG-1995) scored twice. The guests moved the ball well and got into a good rhythm while taking total advantage of the lax 1-1 defensive skills of Frankfurt. The Koblenz run wasn’t the last of the quarter as Frankfurt finished well with a 8-1 run getting 2 clutch three’s from Hecker and Adekunle to lead 19-16. It was no surprise that both took the bulk of the Frankfurt shots as they had little other offensive options on this night. ‘We slept at the start allowing open shots, but we then found our flow. I think that it was the best flow that we have had in the last 4 games. I thought we played good defense. We allowed contested shots’, stated EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. Both teams shot over 40% from the field while Frankfurt shot 30% from outside and Koblenz shot 25%. Frankfurt had the 10-6 rebound edge.

Alani Moore at the FT line

The second quarter remained a tight battle as no team could break away from the other. Moore began the second quarter with a trey from the corner. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors also executed quickly getting a lay in from ex Ehingen forward Nils Leonhardt and a lay in by Drago Crnjac for the 23-19 advantage. But then came another explosive faze by the guests as they went on a 14-6 run to gain the lead 35-29. Heckel was aggressive and scored 7 points while Brian Butler scored 3 baskets in a row including 2 dunks. The EPG Baskets defense sparked their offense as they played their game of transition. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had problems stopping the drive as the guests guards always found the holes finishing themselves or creating for others. But Frankfurt did a good job halting the momentum of Koblenz as they went on a 7-0 run to gain the 36-35 advantage. Adekunle remained aggressive scoring 5 points while reserve and junior player Dusan Nikolic also scored. Nikolic had his Pro B break out game finishing with 10 points in 17 minutes shooting 71% from the field. ‘Dusan got a chance with many injuries. He used the trust form the coaches and his teammates to show how good of a player he can be’, stated Nolan Adekunle. The game of runs continued as the guests went into the break with a 5-0 run to lead 40-36. Friederici hit a trey and Heckel a lay in. ‘Key for our play was the back court as Moore and Heckel made big plays. Frankfurt had problems with our zone. Frankfurt rebounded well and took advantage of their second chance points’, stated Thomas Klein. Adekunle and Hecker took 24 of the team 35 shots in the first half. Both teams continued to shoot over 40% from the field and were at 30% from outside. Frankfurt continued to have the rebound lead at 20-15.

Leon Friederici from downtown

The EPG Baskets Koblenz came out focused and picked up their game at both ends and broke the game open and would never look back in the third quarter. Both teams had problems executing in the first 3 minutes as their were combined 9 possessions and no points. The EPG Baskets Koblenz again proved that basketball will always be a game of runs as they scored 8 unanswered points to lead 48-36. The guests continued to move the ball well and had many options as Poelking continued to take advantage of his height advantage in the paint making an offensive rebound and putback while Heckel continued to break loose in the lane and score and Friederici nailed a trey. The guests picked up the intensity on defense and allowed less open shots which disallowed Frankfurt of finding a rhythm on offense. German NBBL player Joscha Zentgraf finally got Frankfurt’s first field goal at the 5,30 minute mark to trail 48-38. The dominating play of the EPG Baskets continued as they went on the next run of 10-2 to get their biggest lead of the game at 58-40. In this phase, the EPG Baskets Koblenz totally crushed Frankfurt on the drive scoring 5 baskets. The most damage was done by ex Coburg guard Yassin Turan who scored three times while Friederici and Heckel also scored. The zone of Koblenz functioned well and when Frankfurt was without Hecker and Adekunle, there was no execution. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors got some energy down the stretch getting three’s from Hecker and Bennet Schubert but still trailed 62-47. ‘Our 1-1 defense was better as was our help defense. Our rotations were better which we didn’t have in the first half. Our pick and roll defense was better. Our offense was parked by our defense’, stressed Brian Butler. ‘We had problems rebounding. We had problems with the 1-1 defense as their individual class was too much for us’, expressed Nolan Adekunle. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 53% from the field and 24% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from t6he field and 30% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Nils Leonhardt at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz kept up their dominating play and closed out the game well. The Fraport Skyliners began the fourth quarter well with a 4-0 run as Leonhardt and Nikolic scored to cut Koblenz’s lead down to 62-51. But the guests then executed the final blow going on a brutal 13-0 run to extend their lead to 76-51. In the run the guests got the most damage from Friederici who had 8 points including 2 three’s while Moore had a trey and 20 footer. The basket obviously looked bigger and bigger for Friederici who was hitting from anywhere he wanted to shoot from. The EPG Baskets Koblenz did a good job despite the game winding down keeping up their intensity on defense and aggressiveness on offense. With the game decided, Koblenz head coach Pat Elzie elected to put in his 3 kids Milton Heckel, Tevin Schnabel and Dami. Down the stretch both teams scored 9 points as Leonhardt added 5 points while the guests got another three from Moore and 5 points form Moses Poelking to close out the contest. ‘We relaxed a bit in the last minutes. We still have to work on closing out games better’, warned Brian Butler. ‘We were a bit tired at the end. You have to always be awake against a team like them. We tried to execute as best we could’, stressed Nolan Adekunle. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Leon Friederici with 26 points while Alani Moore added 22 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Felix Hecker with1 6 points and Nolan Adekunle had 13 points. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 49% from the field and 35% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 8 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from the field and 28% from outside and had 37 rebound and 18 turnovers.

Tags : LEON FRIEDERICI, EPG BASKETS KOBLENZ, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Alani Moore II (178-PG-1998, college: Temple) is a 24 year old 178cm guard from Rockville, Maryland playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the EPG Baskets Koblenz averaging 15,7ppg, 4,4rpg, 5,5apg and 3,5spg. Last season he played with Sanaat Mes Rafsanjan (Iran-Superleague) playing 16 games averaging 18.8ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-3 (4.7apg), Steals-4 (2.3spg), FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 76.9%. He began his pro career with the Houston Push (TBL) averaging 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 5.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 86.1%. He began his basketball career at the Montrose Christian school and also played at Friendship Collegiate Academy. He then played at temple (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 122 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 8.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 28.3%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 86.1%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball last summer before heading to Germany..

Alani thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

Hi, no problem boss man! I’m currently in Clarksburg Maryland handling business things for my store and workout out everyday in Washington DC. Basketball life is treating me well, just staying locked in ready for next season

People may not know it but you went to the same high school as Kevin Durant. Have you tended to follow his path more because of that and what is your take on all the hate he is getting on social media?

I wouldn’t say I followed his path, but I’ve made a lot of connections because of Montrose Christian. In the basketball world and regular life. Social media has come to this point where people are going to do say anything to get noticed. People say he is not making the right moves but people also don’t live the life he lives.

Congrats on signing with German club EPG Baskets Koblenz. What do you know about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

I actually don’t know too much about Germany, I’ve been to Germany one time before in 2016 and had a great time. So, I am excited to see Koblenz and learn about the city.

There have been some guys like Nigel Pruitt who played at your high school Montrose Christian and TJ DiLeo who played at Temple or Robert Gilchrist who was your teammate in Iran and was a rookie in Germany in 2014 with BG Karlsruhe? Did you reach out to any guys and inquire about basketball in Germany?

I haven’t reached out yet, but i will be making those calls soon to get some feedback on what their thoughts were about being and playing in Germany.

How did the talks go with head coach Pat Elzie? He is a coaching legend and is known for having a great feel for unproven guys.

The talks were good and very exciting for me. Can’t wait to play for coach Elzie.

What was the deciding factor that enabled you to sign the contract with the EPG Baskets? What did you appreciate most about this opportunity?

Honestly, the opportunity to play professional basketball in Europe for a good organization and coach is what really enabled me. I appreciate the togetherness and family oriented mind from top to bottom.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 178cm guard. I’m sure size was always an issue. How soon in your life were you able to block out the doubts that you got and be able to build a healthy consistent self confidence?

When I was about 7th or 8th grade, I always had the mindset of ‘Heart over height’. And that’s because I have a winner’s mentality and there’s nothing or nobody that can deter me from trying to achieve my goals. Once I knew that, height didn’t matter anymore.

Your scoring really stands out. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say Fred Van Vleet

You can also fill the stat sheet well. What other strengths does your game incorporate that you will have on display in Germany?

Getting other people involved, and also making hustle plays. Those plays can change an entire game around.

You have been a good outside shooter your whole career shooting over 40% in school and in the pro’s. Where do you see your shot development now and where do you want to get it to?

It’s always improving and room for improvement so anywhere to the high 40s and above would be good. I would love to shoot 50% from the 3.

Your small and I assume that you will get in passing lanes and get steals, but how do you battle against bigger and stronger guards on the defensive end?

Being smarter and mentally stronger. Being very handsy and using my quickness.

Last season you played with Sanaat Mes Rafsanjan (Iran-Superleague) averaging18.8ppg, 4.0rpg, Assists-3 (4.7apg), Steals-4 (2.3spg), FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 36.9%, FT: 76.9%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas for the first time where you knew that you were very far away from home?

There were a bunch of times where I would just sit back and think about how far I am, but maybe when I arrived and only 2 or 3 people could speak the bare minimum English. Communication was difficult.

What was it like playing in Iran? What was your nicest experience on the court and off the court did you visit any palaces?

It was pretty cool playing in Iran. I had a great time playing basketball there. Nicest experience was the playoffs and finally getting to see the full atmosphere of overseas playoffs with the loud instruments. Off the court, my favorite experience was going to Kish island.

What was it like being teammates with Robert Gilchrist? How vital was it having a veteran around in your first season overseas?

It was so important and I thank him so much for teaching and showing me the ropes for my first year. He helped me out in many situations when I had questions and how I should go about it.

You played your rookie season in the States with the Houston Push (TBL) averaging 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 5.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 86.1%. How much did Covid play a role in you not getting overseas quicker? How tough was your rookie season having to toil in a semi-pro league?

It played a semi role because I also blame myself for not putting In the effort and really pushing the overseas job so fast.

How important was the TBL season for you in terms of staying on edge. You probably met guys every night with chips on their shoulders. What did you learn from your rookie season?

It kept my mind healthy and also gave me a boost to push myself each and every day to get better because there are over thousands of people trying to get jobs and I just had to find what I could do to separate myself.

You played at Temple (NCAA) from 2016-2020. Was reaching the Big Dance your fondest moment in 2019 and what memories do you have of it?

Yes definitely one of my fondest moments. Also, freshman year playing against Florida State and West Virginia at the Barclays was amazing as well.

You had a tough 1 point loss to UConn as a freshman where you played well with 11 points, but got them back as a senior winning 93-89 and scoring 14 points. Did you enjoy those battles against those good UConn teams?

Of course, UConn has had a lot of good players since I’ve been through Temple and those games would always be battles.

How did coaches Fran Dunphy and Aaron McKie groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

They both helped me in different ways. Them being wto different coaches, Fran Dunphy taught me how to develop into a pure point guard and running a team. Coach Mckie helped me focus on defense.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Monty Scott?

It could go either way.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NCAA that went to the NBA?


Jalen Brunson

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Anthony Cowan, Markelle Fultz, Joe Hampton, Aj Wilson Quinton Ro

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant , Shaq, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry

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

I do not like comparing them because of the era difference and positions

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

Yes and I think it was pretty good. They could’ve left it alone but not opposed to trying to bring a new version.

Thanks Alani for the chat.

Tags : ALANI MOORE II, EPG BASKETS KOBLENZ, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Alejandro Rubiera (190-G-1998, agency: Interperformances) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Spain playing his third season abroad and first in Sweden with Helsingborg BBK (Sweden-Superettan) averaging 12,9ppg, 3,8rpg, 2,6apg and 1.1spg while shooting 41% from outside. He began the season in Germany with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season he played for Vestri (Iceland-Subway League) averaging 12.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.7apg. He played the rest of his career in his home land Spain for teams like Gijon Basket 2015 (EBA), Aquimisa Carbajosa (LEB Silver) and BVM 2012 Mieres (EBA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before he signed with the EPG Baskets and after he signed in Sweden.

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

Good evening Miles, it’s a pleasure for me to do an interview for Eurobasket, one of the best websites for basketball players around the world, a very useful tool to find information about any team in any country. It has helped me a lot during my career. Currently, I’m in Sweden. I’ve been working out this summer, played some FIBA 3×3 tournaments, played the Damex Pro League in Gibraltar

Your playing your first season with Helsingborg BBK (Sweden-Superettan). What kind of an experience has it been balling in Sweden?

It’s been great so far, my teammates are great, the city is great and my coach Xavi is a young Spaniard like me. Everything becomes way easier when you and your coach are on the same path and from the same country. It’s a joy to work with him daily, and I’ve thankful for the opportunity. I needed a situation like this.

The team is winning and your stats are solid. What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

I’m having fun again, gaining my confidence back, and working every day to achieve our goal. Our intentions are clear, we want to win the league. I have signed a 1+1 deal with the club for the upcoming season in case we succeed. The work ethic in the team is tremendous, I’m loving it here.

Your averaging 29 minutes per game averaging 13/3/2/1 stats and shooting 41% from outside. What exactly is your role on the team?

Coach Xavi brings me in with a big role, he wants me to have the ball in my hands, organize the team and be a leader in both ends of the floor. I’m getting more and more comfortable as the weeks go by, and I’m excited for the next months of regular season and the Playoffs. Helsinborg gives me the chance to work on my game every single day, so of course the good results come. Most of the teams at this level or similar don’t have the court availability that they have here, so this make us better players and so, a better a team. We have a plan in place, and we are going to try to execute it. I’m very grateful that coach Xavi and Helsinborg BBK chose me to help this project reach the next level.

You were briefly with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Spanish players are a rare sight in German basketball. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

Thank you very much. I’m very happy about my signing for EPG Koblenz. It is true that Germany has been a rare sight for most of Spanish players but not for me. I’ve been in talks with German teams for some years now and this is finally the season that I will play there. I know this country pretty well, I’ve been studying the language for some years now. I have done language courses in cities like Munich, Berlin, Freiburg. I really like Germany. About German basketball, I know German players are big and physical, also there is a lot of talent in this country. The sport keeps growing and getting better.

You helped a team in Iceland move up a league. The EPG Baskets want to do the same with the pro A. Do you believe that your competitiveness is something the club has never seen before?

That’s right, I signed in Iceland with the goal of moving up and we achieved the goal. It was a great experience. I’m blessed that I had that opportunity. It was a very similar situation to the one I will have here in Koblenz. A team hungry to move up in leagues. My desire here, is to do what the team needs from me in order to achieve that collective goal.

Pat Elzie and Thomas Klein are very high on your abilities. What do you remember sticking out with your talks with Pat Elzie? What was your first impression of him?

I had great references about coach Pat. The talks I had with him were very good. He is a player’s coach, with a lot of experience. I think I will be comfortable in his style of playing. He told me how he wants to play this year and it sounded very well. I am very looking forward to work with him this season.

What besides the huge ambition of the club helped you chose to play for them in the 2022-2023 season?

I knew Koblenz before they called me. It is a very respected team in the league. I was in advanced talks with other teams but when my agent called me to tell me that Koblenz was interested, everything else was on hold. Besides the huge ambition, I was surprised by the professionalism they showed during the process. The first impression was very good. EPG Baskets has a lot to offer. Koblenz is a great city, the facilities are great, the coaching staff is very good, the people running the team wants to keep growing. I’m very happy and excited for this season.

Let’s talk about your game. Your a 190cm combo guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA and Spanish player who would best fit the description?

I love to play both positions, and I’ve been working all my career to be able to perform at high level in both of them. I’m ready to play the point, make the right plays, organize the team, apply coaches ideas on the court, but I’m also ready to play the 2 position, I love scoring, attacking, midrange, threes. My favorite player from Spain is Sergio Llull, but I’ve been told my style is similar to J.C Navarro.

You can score the ball, penetrate well and shoot the ball well. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

Well, in my opinion one of my most underrated parts of my game is my defense. I can guard smaller and bigger players than me. I enjoy pressing full court, and making reads ahead of the competition to steal the ball from the offense.

You shot the ball very well in the last two years from outside. What kind of a shooter are you now and what kind of a outside shooter do you want to become?

In the recent years, I understood that if I wanted to be a better player, I needed to be reliable from outside. I made adjustments in my form and after a lot of repetition, I got very good results. Midrange is my favorite shot, but I can shoot after screens, static, long range. My goal is to keep improving in that area and be more consistent.

Thomas Klein loves your mid range game. That was missing from the clubs play last season. How dangerous is this skill in your game?

Midrange is my main weapon in offense, any teammate that I have had would tell you so. My pull up game has always been consistent. I enjoy shooting from the mid area after screen, after spin, step back. I love it and it works.

Your also a very aggressive defender. What kind of steps do you want to make this season in a system where passion on defense is Koblenz’s bread and butter?

Like I mentioned early, I love good defense, and I love to be part of an aggressive defense. I have been playing FIBA 3×3 tournaments for some years now, and that style of game encourages physical defense, a lot of contact. With the talented roster that we have, it will allow us to rotate and go all out in the minutes that we will be on the court.

On what area’s of your game are you still working on so you can continue to improve your game?

I’m very focused on my shot, I want to improve my shot after certain situations, also, I’ve been working on how to be a better point guard, lead the team, make good reads and the right plays at the right time, when to attack, when to look for defense’s weaknesses. It’s a process, my desire is to keep studying the game, keep learning and keep improving in every area of the game.

Last season you played with Vestri (Iceland-Subway League) averaging 12.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 56.1%. What was it like being teammates with the Hallgrimson twins? What did you appreciate most about these guys?

Last season was definitely a different one for me. First time in the top division of Iceland. The Hallgrimson twins were our main Icelandic players that we had. They were a very important piece in our roster. Young players with an amazing working ethic, always working hard to improve. They both got scholarships to play in the USA next season. I’m very happy for them.

You helped Breidablik Kopavogur (Iceland-D1) move up a league averaging 14.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 47.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Iceland where you knew that you were very far away from home?

My experience in Breidablik was amazing. I have very good memories. I was coming off a tough season for me in LEB Silver League in Spain and I needed to have an important role again. Breidablik was the ideal place for that. They signed me to secure the first place so we could promote straight, avoiding the Playoffs. We won every game since I arrived. It was beautiful to be a part of that team, which was already great before I came. The environment was great and it translated to the court. So much fun. I felt in love with the country and its basketball.

You began your career in your home land Spain. Spain has always been a good example of good youth work. How did you experience moving up the youth ranks. Is it tough with all the Spanish talents?

I love my country and Spanish basketball very much. The way we play the game here, the talent we have all around the country is incredible. But, there are many issues the average professional Spanish player has to go through. Issues that I was willing to go through when I was 18,19,20. As you become older, you give more value to different things, and I can get those things in other countries like Iceland or Germany at the moment. It’s about finding the balance between a good role, good conditions, a good level league and sometimes it’s very hard to do so in Spain.

You got a lot of experience playing in the Spanish EBA and for Gijon. How do you feel did your game grow in those years and how vital was it for your development?

The years I played in my hometown were very important for my career and have made me the player I am today. My first year in GijonBasket in EBA, I was 19 years old, I was the hometown kid and the club and the coaching staff bet on me. The American players we signed that year, Kenny Hatch, Malik Wineglass, James Pegues, Israel Hakim were very high level players and they all tested me every day in practice. Also, we had Diego Sanchez, Gijon greatest player of all time, a true veteran that I’ve learnt a lot from. It was the perfect situation for me and it was my first big year that allowed me to sign a new contract in the league above with Circulo Gijon, the other team in my city. We didn’t have very good results that year but truly a learning experience as well, with top level players like Saul Blanco, Shane Osayande. They all taught me how to be a professional, lessons that have helped me very much throughout my career.

What was the nicest moment that you had in Spain on a basketball court?

I have had great moments playing Spain, especially in my youth years where I accomplished dreams like playing for the Spain National Team, winning championships… During my career one of the nicest moments I have ever experienced, was when I was playing for my hometown team GijonBasket and we qualified to play the Final Four in Gijon to promote to LEB Silver. We ended up second in the regular season that year and it was the best result of a Gijon team in an official competition in 10 years. I had to give out 17 tickets for my family and friends that night. The whole gym was packed. Prior to that, the last time I saw the gym like that, was when I was 9 years old and I was in the stands with my dad watching Farho Gijon Baloncesto. Being able to represent the city I grew up in, at that level was an unforgettable feeling. I was blessed.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

In the Spain Youth National Championships that I played, usually Luka Doncic was competing in them too. I played against a lot of high level players that reached ACB, Euroleague and NBA. I wouldn’t be able to pick who is the toughest. I have also shared team with former NBA player Robert Swift, or former Euroleague player Saul Blanco… Always great to play against top level experienced players and even better to play alongside them.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

This is a very difficult question but my top 5 teammates of all time would be the following: – Kenny Hatch – Bobby Harris – Diego Sanchez – Shane Osayande – Malik Wineglass

Please name your 5 most important Spanish players that influenced you in basketball growing up until now?

These are the players that have influenced my game a lot, also players that I learnt a lot from and that I enjoyed playing the most with. But there are a lot of honorable mentions like James Pegues, Lucas Hausman, Saul Blanco, KJ Bosley, Julio Claver. They all are great players and great friends that I appreciate very much.

Which Spanish player is the greatest off all-time for you? I would pick between a Pau Gasol and Juan Carlos Navarro.

My favorite Spanish players that I grew up watching and they influenced me the most they would be: Sergio Llull, JC Navarro, Sergio Rodriguez, Pau Gasol, Rudy Fernandez. I love watching them play, pure talent, IQ and passionate players. In my opinion, the greatest basketball player of all time is Pau Gasol. A true legend, one of the best European players of all time. 2 rings in the NBA with Kobe, and an amazing NBA career, and what he has done with the Spain National Team is unreal. A true role model on and off the court. The greatest Spanish basketball player of all time

What is your favorite movie of all-time?

My favorite movie is Unbroken. A movie based on true events. It motivates me a lot every time I watch it.

Thanks Alejandro for the chat.

Tags : ALEJANDRO RUBIERA, HELSINGBORG BBK, GERMAN BASKETBALL

It was 10 to midnight a few days before Christmas as the Fraport Skyliners were reeling and begging for a win almost as badly as a delusional fan was for getting socked in the face recently when he heckled for many the GOAT Lebron James. But now 3 weeks later, the Fraport Skyliners have strung along a sweet 3 game home winning streak in their own living room and currently basketball life is looking a lot better for now. Granted they may only be in 16th place, but already have 2 wins more than last placed Braunschweig who really look weak at the moment. Even 2 or 3 Dennis Schroeder clones wouldn’t be able to get them out of the bottom of the swamp. The club has been plagued with injuries all season long and have been lacking that extra added scoring punch, but not anymore. In every home win during the streak, Frankfurt was aided by one of their newly signed players. The club had proclaimed for a while in December that new guys would come, but the waiting was long. Finally American Marcus Lewis was hauled in and he more than exceeded expectations ripping the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg apart for 26 points and followed with a solid 16 points against Rostock. In their third win, it was another new player with Isaiah Washington (185-G-1998, college: LBSU, agency: Players Group) who supplied 14 points and did all of his damage in the first half. In crunch-time it was then German national player Joshua Obiesie who countered with 11 clutch points and led Frankfurt to the win. So who is Isaiah Washnigton?

Isaiah Washington was born on July 20,1998 in Harlem, New York. He first had a ball in his hand at age 2. In junior high, he and a couple of friends called themselves the Jelly Fam and they quickly got a huge following on social media because of how they produced pretty finger tip roll lay ups. He later would trade mark the name. He began his career at St Raymond high school averaging 26,0ppg and 6,0apg and also played AAU at New Heights. He scored a crazy 54 points against Cardinal Hayes high school and was the all-time leading scorer at his high school. In 2017 he was the number-one rated point guard from the state of New York and 13th nationally according to Scout.com and was also rated as the top player in the empire state in 2017.He had a solid NCAA career from 2017-2021 getting added experience at 3 schools playing a total of 104 NCAA games. He saw all areas of the United States being in the center with the University of Minnesota where he was for 2 years and he also played at Iona on the east coast and on the west coast at Long Beach State University. He has some masterful performances in his 4 years in the NCAA like his incredible 26 points with Minnesota in a bitter 76-73 loss to Michigan where future NBA players Moritz Wagner, Jordon Poole and Duncan Robinson saw what he was truly capable of doing as a freshman or as a junior with Iona as he drilled 25 points against Monmouth and 24 points against Canisius. In another game against Canisius he registered only the third triple double in Iona history with 14/11/10 stats. His best 2 seasons were his last 2 with Iona College (NCAA) averaging 11.4ppg, 5.1rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 80.3% and at Long Beach State University (NCAA) averaging 13.5ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 77.3%: He played his rookie season overseas with KK Lovcen Cetinje (Montenegro-Erste Liga) averaging 7.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 6.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.2%; and in the Adriatic League averaged 16.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 5.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 81.6%. It wasn’t the greatest rookie season in a lower league, but he came refocused into year 2 and exploded with Spisski Rytieri Nova Ves (Slovakia-Nike SBL) averaging 24.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 6.6apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 54.1%, 3FGP: 34.3%, FT: 80.2%. His best game was at the same his most wild game as he achieved a triple double with 37 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in a 105-102 triple OT win over Lucenec where he logged 55 minutes. He had another triple double against Inter Bratislava with 24/10/11 stats and had 34 points against Komarno and 30 points against Handlova.

On January 8th, the Fraport Skyliners announced the arrival of Isaiah Washington before the game against 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen. He was a vital factor in the Fraport Skyliners win over BG Goettingen. I reach Fraport Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson 4 hours after the win as he was rounding out his Sunday night watching NFL football. I had never heard of Isaiah Washington, but that’s probably because I’m watching too little basketball video’s on You Tube. ‘I had heard of Isaiah. He has this movement going with the Jelly Fam and has million of followers on Instagram’, stated Quantez Robertson. Washington had already been in Frankfurt last week and had had some walk throughs after the Alba Berlin game and had had 2 full practices. It didn’t take Tez long to get his first impression of the jelly Fam founder as he played with him for the first time in practice. ‘He is a very composed player and really understands the game. It will take some time to find things out and get used to his teammates’, added Quantez Robertson. He is a point guard that is very crafty and has the ability to get to the hole. Plus he is a very solid pick and roll player. In his first game against BG Goettingen he tallied 14 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists in 23 minutes. He did all his scoring damage in the first half. ‘His quick start did surprise me a bit. He did a good job making plays for himself and others. You obviously want him to do good in that first game, but still him being in a new league and new team, you just don’t expect it. He did a really good job on offense and pressured well on defense’, stressed Quantez Robertson. He is a player that can fill the stat sheet and has produced triple doubles at the NCAA and pro level. He is definitely a player that will woo fans at both ends of the court. ‘I think that his biggest strength on offense is the pick and roll. He has a real good sense of gravity and keeps guys on hip and gets to the rim. He is a strong kid with good size and knows how to control his body. He is also a hard nosed defender that doesn’t back down from anyone and is aggressive. He was in foul trouble against Goettingen, but I feel once he gets used to the refs and league, his fouls will go down and he will show that he is a good defender’, warned Quantez Robertson.

He already proved against BG Goettingen that he can be a potent American scoring duo with JJ Frazier, but imagine what kind of trio they will be when injured Marcus Lewis is back in the line-up. ‘It will be cool to see them play together on the court. They both can create for themselves and others. That ability will help both out, because teams won’t be able to key on both of them’, warned Quantez Robertson. Tez is really excited about what else his new teammate will bring to the table in the next game against Crailsheim especially on the defensive end against their pesky guards. ‘He is a tough defender and plays hard. He doesn’t show too much emotion. He is a real competitor and will always make it difficult for the opponent’, stressed Quantez Robertson. When you have millions of followers on social media and played in Montenegro and Slovakia, you just have to have a chip on his shoulder. Despite having a very solid easyCredit BBL debut, Quantez Robertson doesn’t believe it was a fluke. ‘He definitely has a chip on his shoulder. After playing in a lower league in Slovakia, he wants to prove to everyone and himself that he can play at a high level. I believe that he will do that’, warned Quantez Robertson. One thing is for sure, practices will never be dull. Even if Quantez Robertson is 38 years old, he may still learn something new from the Jelly fam with the finger tip roll even if I would rather see him dunk again for good old sake.

Tags : ISAIAH WASHINGTON, FRAPORT SKYLINERS FRANKFURT, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Jeremy Ingram is a 191 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 Jeremy on the huge 94-90 win over Wusterhausen. How does it feel to come to win for the first time in 2023?

Well that just means we are starting the year off the right way. But all of our wins are important now because we want to slide into the playoffs.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. Was it a close affair or were there some runs and bigger leads involved?

It was a very tight game , especially in the 2nd half. Wusterhausen also has an american player who played very well for them that gave us a lot of trouble. Game went down to the final seconds but my team made a few more bigger plays than they did.

Talk about crunch-time. Did you let your magic take over?

When the game is on the line ,I love having the ball in my hands. I honestly thrive in those moments. Shoutout to my coach and teammates for trusting me in those clutch moments.

How valuable was Vladimir Migunov who had 16 points and 9 boards?

He was most definitely the player of the game. He came up with some game saving rebounds that gave us the chance to win this game.

What was it like battling Jeremy Lewis who scored 24 points? Was there any trash talk involved?

There was no trash talk between me and him but we battled all game and that’s the best way to show another player how much you respect their game by competing. He played a great game for his team.

You had an incredible 39 point game. How much did your 50 point game shortly before the new year in Bremerhaven influence your game?

I always have confidence I can go out in any game and put up big numbers if I need too. The 50 point game was just a brief warmup to help me establish my rhythm coming back from Holiday break.

How content were you with your game. Granted you scored a lot but had no assists and 3 turnovers. How does a competitor like that feel after a game like that?

I actually had a few assists but it’s Regionalliga 1 so they don’t always get the assists right in the stat sheet. 3 turnovers is a little too much but considering how much of the game I have the ball it’s actually not that bad. I love my game and the way I play but I always have room for improvement. Therefore, I am always working to get even better.

The next game is against top team Neustadt who are 13-1. How tough will this game be and what will be key to getting win?

Aggressive defense , rebounding , and getting good shots. I’m sure Neustadt will bring out the best in our team and I’m sure we will be ready to fight for 40 minutes.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

There are always guys no matter what league your in that you go and watch for a reason. In the NBA people pay to watch Steph Curry make beautiful three pointers or the all around dominating game of Giannis or delusional jealous fans just to heckle Lebron James. Last season in Germany you can be sure there were many people that marked Bonn and Crailsheim to watch because of the two crafty and exciting point guards Parker Jackson-Cartwright and TJ Shorts. There was a reason why they were the MVP candidates last season. But there are also other guys that people come to watch. For me I didn’t only mark Jackson-Cartwright in my notebook last season, but also Javontae Hawkins (196-G-1993, college: Fordham) who was a key part for the success of the Telekom Baskets Bonn. But before anything else, he has some love for all his ex point guards in Germany that fed him the ball for many points over the years. ‘You can’t go wrong at all with either of those 2 but you can also throw Dewayne Russell and Trae Bell-Hayes in there too’, warned Javontae Hawkins. A reason to come watch Javontae Hawkins is for his all around good play at both ends, but one thing that really sticks out is his incredible knack for hitting crazy long range shots. But if one thought that he learned that overnight or gradually over the years then your wrong. The last guy for me in the easyCredit BBL to be able to make those kind of shots was German Heiko Schaffartzik. Obviously his 1-1 skills have to be very good for him to be able to make those kind of shots. ‘ I have always been a great 1-1 scorer since HS, I grew up playing 1-1 everyday with friends, so it’s kind of natural I would say. I think the game has evolved to deeper range, but honestly I’ve been shooting deep range since I was a teenager. It’s kind of a natural feeling when you work on those type of shots in the off season and even during the season’. Stressed Javontae Hawkins. Last season the ex Fordham University (NCAA) great hit a game winner against Hamburg which he ranks as his best in his career and this season hit one in France against Le Portal. This season he is playing for Limoges ESP Elite and heck give him the ball and he’ll even score from the Eiffel Tower if needed. The Eiffel Tower is 12,5 kilometers from Halle Carpentier where Paris Basketball play. Don’t underestimate Javonte Hawkins because he will make crazy shots.

The 29 year old 196cm guard from Huntington West Virginia who has 5 siblings came overseas in 2017 after a solid NCAA career. After 2 non spectacular seasons at South Florida (NCAA), he then made the jump to Eastern Kentucky (NCAA) where he broke through and averaged 17,0ppg and in his senior season moved to Fordham University (NCAA) where he averaged 14,0ppg. He spent his first 2 pro seasons in Finland and Greece where he got a good feel for the European game and was consistent. Despite going 0-4 against Euroleague clubs Olympiakos and Panathinaikos, he scored in double figures in 3 of 4 games and proved he could hold his own against some of the best players overseas. Then came his successful time in Germany. He continued to prove he could play well in a new system in Crailsheim and averaged 15.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 79.4%. MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg head coach John Patrick recognized his talent and brought him to Ludwigsburg, but a brutal injury kept him out of action. He couldn’t play for more than a year and had to suffer some real growing pains. But when he was fit he played for the Telekom Baskets Bonn averaging 15.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 77.8%. It is quite apparent that Tuomas Iisalo has been massive for the growth in his game. ‘It helped my game a lot. Being under Tuomas Iisalo for those 2 seasons really groomed me as a player. He has an unmatched work ethic as a coach and I literally use a lot of things he taught me even while being in a different league’, stressed Javontae Hawkins.

Now the guard who can score in bunches is playing in the France Pro A and Basketball Champions League. After spending Christmas in Germany the last years, he spent this Christmas in France, but didn’t see much difference in how it is celebrated there. He also didn’t have any special new years resolutions except for being a consistent man of God, husband, father and friend. I personally would have thought he would have remained in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn or even received a special opportunity with Alba Berlin or FC Bayern Munich, but the basketball God had another calling for him. ‘No it wasn’t a serious issue. I love Germany just had to take full advantage of the opportunity that’s given’, said Javontae Hawkins. After really suffering for so long and having to sit out the 20-21 season, he enjoys every day suiting up for practice because he knows every day could be the last day playing. ‘I’m very blessed and I don’t take it for granted. God blessed me with a gift and I’m thankful to be able to be healthy playing this game’, stated Javontae Hawkins. Last season he experienced a great run in the playoffs in Germany and wants to do it again this season in France in an up tempo league. Limoges CSP Elite won titles in the 80’s and last in 2015. Currently they have a 9-8 record and are in eighth place. There is still a lot of work to do, but the season is still long. But the current order of business is to win the 3 game Basketball Champions League series against his ex team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. In the first game in Ludwigsburg, the MHP Riesen grinded out a 85-81 win where Hawkins contributed 17 points. The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg cleaned house after successful coach John Patrick left for Japan. This season the club has a new hungry and ambitious coach with Josh King and many new players, but the success is still there. The work and success reminds one of how Tuomas Iisalo was in Crailsheim. One player who is still around is top defender Yorman Polas. ‘ Yorman is a great friend of mine we shared times competing with and against each other these past 3 years. It’s always a joy to play against him because he brings the best out of me’, commented Javontae Hawkins.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Javantae Hawkins in Frankfurt in 2022

The family man who became a dad a few days ago and ranks Steph Curry in the top 3 best point guards of all-time came to Limoges, but didn’t come to a totally foreign place as he became teammates with 2 ex easyCredit BBL players with Desi Rodriguez and Gavin Schilling. ‘They have been very important because we can help each other adjust when needed’, added Javontae Hawkins. In Bonn there were many functioning pieces that helped the success of the team and it isn’t any different in Limoges with Americans Bryce Jones and Jayvon Graves. Graves is one of the few professional players hat was able to breathe the special Lebron James aura at St Vincent St Marys high school where he balled as a kid. ‘They are very important. They’re the engine to the team. They should always be aggressive to put us in situations to win games which both guys have been. I’ve been knowing Jayvon since he was in HS and he came on a visit back when I was at Fordham. We’ve always stayed in touch and the sky is the limit for the type of talent he has. He has NBA/Euroleague level talent for sure along with his humility I see nothing but great things in his future’, warned Javontae Hawkins. Hawkins is having another solid season in 2 competitions as he is averaging 14,1ppg, 3,7rpg, 1,5apg and shooting 36% from the parking lot in the France pro A and in the Basketball Champions league is averaging 12,4ppg, 3,0rpg and 1,5apg and shooting 31% from outside. His role is simple this season as he is the leader, their best defender and being an all around player on the offensive end. He has been telling me for years the same old story as to what the secret is to being great in every place he has ever played. ‘I remain persistent and consistent even through adversity’, warned Javontae Hawkins. He scored 21 points a piece against Paris, Monaco and Le Portal. Tonight he will give all his best in his living room in Limoges trying to force a game 3 in Ludwigsburg. Who knows perhaps he will meet his ex coach Zuomas Iisalo again this season in the Basketball Champions League. He also knows what has been the secret to Iisalo’s success the last years. ‘There’s an old saying ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ Tuomas has proven over the years that his uptempo offense and aggressive hard nose defense WORKS! He doesn’t do anything new, or out of character and still manages to prove why he’s a Euroleague level coach. I will always be a fan of his teams’, expressed Javontae Hawkins. Who knows maybe Tuomas Iisalo will reach the Euroleague one day with FC Bayern Munich? ‘I could definitely see it. He deserves it for sure’, stressed Javontae Hawkins. Who knows maybe one day the paths of Tuomas Iisalo and Javontae Hawkins might cross again. Perhaps in a big city in Bavaria.

The overwhelming and dominating play of the EPG Baskets Koblenz couldn’t last forever. For months they had been blowing away teams left and right and every now and then one wished for some tighter games. The club led by Pat Elzie finally got that game against Hanau a few days before 2023 losing by 3 points. They went into 2023 motivated to win and won in Letitershofen and back in their own living room against the Basketball Lowen even if it wasn’t pretty and involved hard work. A win is a win and sometimes you need the tight ones. The EPG Baskets Koblenz took their 11-1 record into the game against Team Ehingen Urspring with continued huge aspirations and met a team that was in the middle of the pack with a 5-7 record. They came into 2023 having erased their 3 game losing streak having won a nail bitter in Leitershofen. On an untypical Tuesday night game with mild temperatures in January, the EPG Baskets stepped on the court and had a poor first half despite having the lead, but in the second half found their game and in the end won in an easy manner 93-73. A big problem this season for the EPG Baskets Koblenz has been their inconsistency and that really came to light in the first half. ‘It was a hard fought game. We were up and down in the first half. There were phases where we played our game, but we had too many defensive mistakes that led to easy baskets for Ehingen. In the second half we were able to play our game. We moved the ball better and had more opportunity on transition for easy baskets’, commented ex easyCredit BBL player Marvin Heckel. Team Ehingen played a solid game and lived off the mistakes of Koblenz in the first half, but in the second half couldn’t contain Koblenz as well and had no answer for Friederici and the big man duo of Poelking and Saffer on the boards. ‘Koblenz is one of the top 2 best teams in the league and if not best on paper. It was the best team that we have played this season. They controlled the pace and killed us on the boards. They always threw punches and we had no punches. They dominated every phase of the game and wore us down’, stressed Team Ehingen top scorer Andre Nation.

Moritz Heck at the ft line

The EPG Baskets Koblenz went into the game without ex easycredit BBL player Dominique Johnson who had the flu. Team Ehingen Urspring didn’t waste anytime getting on the board getting a trey from Andre Nation only a few seconds in for the 3-0 lead. But that would be the only lead of the contest as the EPG Baskets Koblenz then launched a brutal assault scoring 12 unasnwered points to lead 12-3. In the run it was 2017 easyCredit BBL allstar slam dunk contest champion Brian Butler who scored 2 lay ups and made a massive dunk. German Moses Poelking added free throws and ex Heidelberg sniper Leon Friederici (190-SG-1995) added a bomb form outside. ‘We played the way we did at the start of the season. When we play fast, it is really hard to defend us. Butler was a real presence inside’, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. But then came the inconsistency of Koblenz that has dogged them on many occasions as they allowed a 15-6 run as Team Ehingen Urspring suddenly had dead locked the game at 18-18. In the run the guests received valuable support from ex Tuebingen sniper Daniel Zacek who supplied 8 points and his trademark 2 three pointers. Nation also delivered a trey while reserve big man David Dostal scored 2 buckets inside after Vincent Neugebauer had picked up 2 quick fouls. The EPG Baskets Koblenz totally lost their rhythm and were forcing too much on offense and on defense couldn’t stop the 1-1 play. Dangerous offensive player Alani Moore also had gotten no shot attempts something very untypical. But the EPG Baskets did close out the first half strong with a 5-0 run to lead 23-18 after 10 minutes. Butler and Heckel made free throws and Friederici wooed the fans with a big 2 handed dunk. ‘We had a very flattering lead. It was a quarter of 2 faces’, stressed Thomas Klein.

Leon Friederici with the drive

In the second quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz did keep the lead, but they struggled and in a sense were lucky that they could lead by 8 points at the break. Ex Temple guard Alani Moore finally got on the board with an off balance shot for the 25-18 Koblenz advantage. But Koblenz just had mental lapses in too many phases. They coughed up the ball under their own basket allowing Nation for a dunk. Friederici did all he could to take over responsibility for the sick Johnson and really carried his team. But defensively they were a liability. Ex Alba Berlin JBBL champion Erik Penteker nailed a three pointer and the guests trailed only 31-28. ‘Ehingen did whatever they wanted to with our defense. We played no 1-1 defense. We had little movement on offense’, stated Thomas Klein. Even if the EPG Baskets Koblenz weren’t at their best, they still were able to squeeze out a 10-3 run to lead 41-33. Friederici was strong all game as he scored 5 points in this phase. Niclas Sperber also added solid energy from the bench with 3 points. ‘Thank God that we have Leon Friederici tonight’, stated Thomas Klein. In the last few minutes it was a trade off between Friederici and Nation as Friederici added a three pointer and lay in while Nation added a tough off balance shot and trey. The lay in by Friederici may have been the bucket of the night. ‘That was an incredible ankle breaker hang man’, smiled Thomas Klein. The EPG Baskets Koblenz led 46-38 at half-time. ‘We made a good recovery at the end after starting the quarter bad. We had no flow, no dynamic and weren’t concentrated, but thanks to Friederici had the lead’, stressed Thomas Klein.

Brian Butler at the ft line

In the third quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz finally broke open the game and led by 14 points after 30 minutes, but still allowed too many points with 21. Team Ehingen Ursping began the third quarter with a bang as Ivan Delgado served up a high lob pass that Nation slammed home on the alley-op. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were able to attack the rim better and were more aggressive on the boards as Marvin Heckel finally scored his first basket of the game and Butler scored in the paint while Poelking became more aggressive and scored back to back buckets for the 55-44 advantage. The guests then got instant energy form German Moritz Heck with an off balance shot and Nation scored a tough turn around shot as the guests trailed only 55-48. The EPG Baskets Koblenz then were able to break open the game going on a 11-2 run to lead 66-50. In the run Koblenz was able to execute well and played their game on transition. Friederici and Moore tallied three’s while Sperber and Poelking scored in the paint. ‘Our body language was better. We were looking for transition and executing. Our 1-1 defense was better and we rebounded better because we were more athletic’, said Thomas Klein. In the last minutes both teams executed well as Poelking remained aggressive getting to the free throw line while Heckel had finally found his game and was executing at a better rate. Ehingen as usual got another trey from Andre Nation. ‘He is one of the best I have seen’, lauded head coach Pat Elzie after the game. The guests also got some big support from the bench from 17 year old Estonian guard Jorke Aav who supplied 5 points in the last minute, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz still led 74-60. ‘At half-time we spoke about what we did wrong and we understood that we weren’t always mentally there. We knew the importance of the game and we all raised our game. We began to play team basketball’, stressed Marvin Heckel. ‘We had too many turnovers and they capitalized on it. They were more physical and played good team defense’, stated Andre Nation.

Mateo Vidovic for 3

In the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz did a super job not letting up, but continuing to execute and not allowing Team Ehingen Urspring to sneak over the hump. Leon Friederici began with a lay in for the 76-59 lead. Nation and Zacek continued to heave up bombs from downtown and connected while Marvin Heckel was his aggressive self making 2 lay in’s for the 82-65 advantage. He had had a poor first half, but rebounded strong in the second half to finish with 14 points and 7 dimes. ‘It took time to find my game tonight. After I made that back door basket, I had arrived. After that everything came from it’s self. I didn’t force any more and let the game come to me’, warned Marvin Heckel. The EPG Baskets closed out the game well getting continued fine support from Leo Saffer who made 2 more buckets in the paint and really was a solid back up to Moeses Poelking. Moore added another trey and Heckel a lay in while Ehingen received some support from their bench as Germans Mateo Vidovic nailed a trey and Linus Ihle made a lay in. After 40 minutes the EPG Baskets Koblenz had won easily 93-73. ‘Poelking and Saffer were really big in the second half. Their physical presence was a big difference. They worked really hard on the boards and were rewarded’, stressed Marvin Heckel. ‘It is really hard to come back when your down 15 points in their gym. They have a really good bench. We are a young team and still trying to figure it out’, stated Andre Nation. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Leon Friederici with 25 points. Moses Poelking added 15 points as did Brian Butler while Team Ehingen Urspring was led by Andre Nation with 22 points. Daniel Zacek added 11 points and Moritz Heck 10 points. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 50% from the field and 39% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 14 turnovers while Team Ehingen Urspring shot 42% from the field and 34% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Tags : LEON FRIEDERICI, EPG BASKETS KOBLENZ, GERMAN BASKETBALL

When you think of Finnish sports, one won’t bring up basketball right away. It is probably ice hockey that will be mentioned first. Basketball has grown in the last years as the national team qualified for the first time for the World Cup in 2014 and played at 5 Eurochampionships since 2011 and finished 7th in the last one which was their best result ever. Recently Finish head coach Gordon Herbert led Germany to a Bronze at the 2022 Eurochampionships which was their best finish since gaining the Silver in 2005 in Belgrade. Over the years they have produced solid players and with their best being current NBA player Lauri Markkanen. But there have also been other well known players like Hanno Mottola, Pettieri Koponen, Sasu Salin and Teemu Rannikko. There are many interesting and skilled Finish players playing in Europe, but also lesser known ones like Shawn Hopkins (198-PG-1995, college: N.Georgia, agency: Blacktop Management) who has carved out a fine career. He also had the opportunity to play 3 years in the NCAA with lesser known basketball school Troy, but there he was very lucky to play against top schools Kentucky and Duke that produces future NBA players at a high rate. It was no surprise that he would play against many future NBA players. But there is a difference between NBA player and NBA star. He battled against NBA stars Jayson Tatum and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander and remembers those duels as if it was yesterday. He only played 2 minutes against Duke and Tatum, but logged 15 minutes against Kentucky. Everyone in the arena knew Tatum would be special. ‘Playing against these guys was sweet. Not a lot of guys get a chance to witness it. Don’t remember too much from my two minutes but the game itself was definitely an experience. For sure. Everyone in the gym knew Tatum had it. No surprise he’s a superstar in the next level as well. Playing against Kentucky is a memory I’ll have with me forever! Guarding Kevin Knox and making that game a close one’,remembered Shawn Hopkins who hasn’t seen the sequel to the classic Coming to America, but it’s on his list to view. He knows that there aren’t many Finish players that can boast that they played against Jayson Tatum and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber(bottom head slighty cut off) with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in Boston in 2021

The forward who lists Jayson Tatum as the toughest player that he faced in the NCAA was born on May 9, 1995 in Nokia, Finland. He began his basketball career with BC Nokia playing with the youth teams. He made the jump to the men’s team in 2011 making his debut on September 30th against BC Jyvaskyla as a young 16 year old. He would go on to play 4 seasons playing 101 games. Twice he averaged 8.0ppg in a season and once 10,0ppg. He played for many coaches in his 4 years and remembers one guy in particular as being the most vital in his early development. ‘Ville Tuominen gave a scrawny kid a chance in the men’s league for the first time. He showed me that I could play with the big guys. Playing with older men early in my career definitely helped me with reading the game and learning little tricks and details’, remembered Shawn Hopkins. In these years he also gained valuable experience with the Finish U-16, U-18 and U-20 national teams. He played at the U-16 and U-18 European championships in North Macedonia and U-20 European championships in Bosnia. He then caped off his good junior national team career with a Gold at the Eurochampionships in Hungary averaging 7.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 75.0%. ‘Winning the U20 Gold might be my favorite moment representing Finland. We had a close-knit group of very talented guys’, said Shawn Hopkins.

The forward who lists Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaq ,Steph Curry, and Lauri Markkanen on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore then decided to get a total different experience going over the big pond to play at Troy (NCAA) from 2015-2018 playing a total of 72 games. He never was able to find his niche there never averaging more than 3,6ppg. Even though he had to suffer some growing pains in the NCAA where he went from 13 minutes as a freshman to only 5 minutes in his sophomore season, he understood it was all part of the grind to help him get to where he is today. ‘D1 basketball is a great experience. Everyone wants to go to the league. Quicker guards and everyone is athletic. Second year was tough for me for sure. Went through a lot that season but it only makes or breaks a player, and here I am, still’, warned Shawn Hopkins. He then made a change of scenery and played one more season in the States with the University of North Georgia (NCAA2) averaging 16.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 71.6%. Being able to come in and be a massive contributor was huge for his development at that time. ‘I gained confidence with the ball, and with more responsibility’, added Shawn Hopkins. He had some huge games against Lander with 29 points and hit Emmanuel with 26 points. He will never forget head coach Chris Faulkner who made a big impact on his career. ‘Coach Faulkner gave me an opportunity. He’s one of the blessings in my career. He let me do my thing and gain confidence’, expressed Shawn Hopkins.

The Finish national player who never battled Roderick English in daily 1-1 games at North Georgia but remembers the games against Quincy Poiter as not being fun came back to Europe, but didn’t make the automatic jump to a high league, but had to return back home for the 2019-2020 season and pay some more dues. But at least he began at a familiar place at BC Nokia where he had begun his career. He now made a jump playing in the first division Korisliiga playing 37 games averaging 7.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 74.6%. He didn’t have the overpowering stats, but he was a different and changed player due to his 4 years state side. ‘I was a more mature player. I had more confidence to shoot the ball and also go to the rim’, remembered Shawn Hopkins. Near the end of the season he had some big games in wins over Lahti with 20 points and 19 points against Ura Basket. The next season he had his break through as a professional playing for Pyrinto Tampere (Korisliiga) averaging 13.8ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 62.9%. He was able to take major responsibility and had big games in the playoffs against Kataja and Kauhajoki, but then had to suffer losing to the Helsinki SeaGulls as ex Fraport Skyliner Shawn Huff and top easyCredit BBL player Kendale McCullum was to much for his team. ‘Huff’s team was in desperation mode in this game. They were expected to be in the finals. They brought the anger and it showed. Shawn is a legend who’s taught me a lot as a leader. McCullum couldn’t be stopped in Finland at times’, said Shawn Hopkins. He scored in double figures in 26 games including 25 points against his ex team BC Nokia and 23 points against Korihait. He will never forget explosive teammate Marcus Lewis who always had a dunk ready for each game like the one between his legs and others. ‘Lewis is one of the best teammates I’ve ever played with. Unstoppable scorer. Favorite dunk was definitely against Ura Basket off the backboard pass to himself’, remembered Shawn Hopkins. Last season his basketball trek continued in Iceland a country that offers the beauty of nature while on the court having many Americans with chips on their shoulders as big as Mount Rushmore. It was here that he had to endure again that the basketball journey is a long one. ‘I’ve always travelled a lot with the junior national teams, and lived in college far from home, so being in Iceland was more like a moment of realization that ‘this is where the grind starts’, warned Shawn Hopkins. He balled for with Stjarnan (Iceland-Subway League) averaging 14.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 64.8%. He played a solid series against Valur, but in the end couldn’t get by them. ‘It was tough for sure. We couldn’t get the pieces together to get an answer against them. For a moment it hurt. But in a series like that you can’t let nothing bother you, empty head. They had a strong team who also went on to win the championship’, expressed Shawn Hopkins. He scored in double figures in 20 games including 29 points against IR and 25 points against Breidablik.

The Finish native who tries to take the quiet side on the famous GOAT debate between Joran and Lebron, but is with Jordan is playing his first season with SCM CSU Craiova (Romania-Liga Nationala). All his hard work the last years paid off as he is playing in the highest league so far in his career for a well known Romanian club and is playing international club play in the Fiba Europe Cup. The club is up and coming in Romania and has reached the next round of the Fiba Europe Cup. It is apparent to feel that a special winning culture is developing with Craiova. ‘With coach Vitaly comes a great winning culture. He has brought a very ambitious mindset to not only us players but also the whole organization. We’ve grown as a unit so much, and we believe we can win by executing our plan, playing hard and together. Everyone has a responsibility’, warned Shawn Hopkins. A big part of the success has been the trio of Americans with ex easyCredit BBL player Giordan Watson, Cortez Edwards and Demonte Flannigan. ‘Watson brings us a mature leading role. He knows exactly when to get others going and when to attack himself. Flannigan is the most athletic guy I have ever played with. He can rip the rim down and move like a guard against big defenders. Edwards is a sneak athlete that catches people off guard. Quickest defender and explosive at the rim’, stressed Shawn Hopkins. Hopkins is putting up solid stats in Romania averaging 9,2ppg, 2,6rpg and 1,1apg while in the Fiba Europe Cup has upped his game averaging 12,8ppg, 2,5rpg and 1,3spg. His big inspiration is Kobe Bryant and still believes in 2023 that having played at N Georgia was so instrumental for his game. ‘UNG was a great place where I started to grow as a player more. I had a tad more freedom as a big guard, which is why I got to work on a lot of other stuff too to add in my bag and gain confidence’, added Shawn Hopkins. But he is so much more than just a versatile offensive player, but also a solid defender. He knows that being able to heighten that part of his game will help him continue to climb the basketball ladder up. ‘I always want to start from defense, I take it very personally. I see myself as a quality defender with quicker feet and my size. I think a lot of defense is about the mentality. Also at a higher lever you need to be more physically ready’, warned Shawn Hopkins. He simply wants to become the best defender on the court, but also be better at reading ball screens. After many years in Finland, his career is now starting to take off abroad. After a tough but solid season in Iceland, he is making the next step in Romania, but the journey won’t end here. ‘Playing abroad has always been a dream and climbing that ladder is the plan’, warned Shawn Hopkins. He definitely will always have entertaining stories about Tatum and Gilgeous-Alexander and others no matter where his basketball journey takes him in the next years.

Tags : SHAWN HOPKINS, SCM CSU CRAIOVA, GERMAN BASKETBALL

A great motto is always Things can only get better. For the older folk, the 1985 smash hit Things can only get better from UK singer Howard Jones is a song that Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners could take into the new year as their 0-7 record didn’t exactly demonstrate excellence. But one can’t forget that they had many tough loses where they played well for 30 minutes, but couldn’t finish it in the fourth and never gave up playing hard every game. Even if Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg only had a dismal 2-5 record, their play was definitely misleading as they were underachieving. The team is filled with much talent and players with more than 40 Pro B experience this season. The question was when would the Ludwigsburg bubble finally burst and a long winning streak be born? On a very mild early January afternoon in Frankfurt, Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners finally wanted to erase the big goose egg and start 2023 with a bang, but instead it was Porsche BBA that made the largest noise coming back twice and firing 2 buzzer beaters that totally shocked Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners 87-84 in overtime. It was a total crazy game and one that Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg coach Khee Rhee will remember for a long time. ‘We didn’t play very well. I always tell my young players no matter how bad it looks, nothing won’t change unless you work hard to change it. We hit 2 lucky shots at the end. Those shots came from focus and luck. You work for the luck. Our guys did a great job’, stressed head coach Khee Rhee. The ending to the game totally reflects the tough season that Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners have had. They have fought all season long, but this season the basketball God has totally neglected the team. Sometimes that is simply how the cookie crumbles. It just has been one of those seasons where nothing has gone right.

Mock Icke at the FT line

Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners came out roaring playing with high intensity as it’s 2 key players Joscha Zentgraf and Dusan Nikolic scored. They showed early especially Nikolic that they would be living by their super individual class rather than putting up helpless three’s on this afternoon. But the guests got going as well as the two hero’s at the end Sebastian Schwachhofer (200-PF-2005) and Luca Steubel connected for the early 5-4 lead. But then came the first run of the contest as Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners went on a huge 14-3 run to lead 18-8. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners got massive production from Zentgraf who scored 3 buckets and was a big force on the offensive glass. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners also got huge support from the bench from Finley Pruever who scored on transition and Sergio Grothe fished an offensive rebound off the glass and made the put back. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners played with higher intensity that Ludwigsburg couldn’t match and continued to attack the rim with force neglecting the three’s. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners kept the lead, but Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg got 4 points from big man Mock Icke and huge German talent Abdulhay Komurkara made a lay in as he demonstrated his incredible speed. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners continued to execute well getting valuable production from Bench player Marvin Esser and from Zentgraf who was on fire in the first quarter. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners led comfortably 23-14 after 10 minutes. ‘We didn’t defend or rebound well. That was a major problem in other phases of the game. Nikolic show his individual class which was impressive. He bulldozered through us with ease’, stated Khee Rhee.

Joscha Zentgraf at the FT line

Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners continued to control the game despite Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg getting a burst of major energy from athletic Esli Edigin and still led 40-33 at the break. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners began well scoring 4 unanswered points as Zentgraf made free throws and Barnabas Bode made a beautiful lay in dazzling everyone with his spin move. On defense Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners held their high intensity forcing Ludwigsburg to 4 straight turnovers. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg remained calm and used more patience on offense not hurrying or forcing things and went on a 10-0 run to trail Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners only 27-24. Edigin supplied instant scoring support with back to back three’s while Stuebel snuck inside for an offensive rebound and put back and Ognjen Veljkovic made a turn around shot at the shot clock buzzer. Nikolic had been forcing a bit too much in the first few minutes, but driving isn’t any different than shooting in that if it isn’t working keep trying. Nikolic remained aggressive scoring twice with the swift drive and once on transition as Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners led 34-26. Veljkovic made a huge trey to cut Frankfurt’s lead down to 34-29, but Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners remained strong going into the break with further vital support from their bench as German Marvin Esser scored 2 buckets and Finley Pruever made a beautiful floater for the 40-33 advantage after 20 minutes. ‘We played faster and got good production from Esli Edigin. He still has much development time ahead of him, but if you look at him now and last August it is like day and night’, stated Khee Rhee.

Sebastian Schwachofer to the rim

The third quarter was dreadful for both teams in terms of execution as there was little. It was literally a turnover party as both teams coughed up the ball at a high rate. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg stepped up their defense raising it’s intensity a few levels stopping 5 possessions and were rewarded with 7 points on offense. Phyisical Luis Nonfon began with a lay in as he perfected the give and go with Luca Steubel and then Sebastian Schwachhofer scored twice inside to dead lock the game at 40-40. The guests would get 2 more stops until Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners finally scored it’s first hoop of the second half as Hector Izquierdo scored with a trey for the 43-40 lead. The game would remain tight as Komurkara hit a trey to tie the game at 45-45. Nikolic remained aggressive and executed with his drive that was almost impossible to defend, but Leonardo Kratzer tied the game with free throws at 47-47. But Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg would get their first lead of the game as diminutive guard Travis Davis who is 170cm who reminded one of Nate Robinson made a huge trey and closed out the third quarter with the perfect lob pass for Nonfon who made the easy basket for the 52-48 advantage. ‘We had more intensity on defense and rebounded better. I remember coming into the gym and seeing some people laugh at Davis’s not in a negative way but in the sense that he was so small in comparison to the big men. People underestimate him. His size is positive in that he is very quick, but has deficits on defense because of his size’, added Khee Rhee.

Dusan Nikolic from downtown

The fourth quarter remained a close battle in the first 5 minutes, but Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners then got a way a bit leading by 7 points, but couldn’t close the door shut for the victory. Hector Izquierdo had a massive fourth quarter at both ends of the court. He began quickly connecting on 4 free throws to tie the game at 52-52. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners continued to execute going on a 6-2 run to lead 58-54. Nikolic continued to be aggressive and have the hot hand scoring with a lay in and off balance shot. The guests continued to battle and got some big three’s from Komurkara and Steubel to gain the 64-63 advantage. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners continued to have strong nerves knowing they had lost so many games in crunch-time this season hit Ludwigsburg with a 10-3 run to lead 73-67. Izquierdo was huge in this phase getting rebounds, steals, blocks and scored 7 points with 2 lay in’s and 3 free throws. But the guests just wouldn’t go away making 2 huge buckets with less than a minute to go. Veljkovic made the perfect inbounds pass for the alley-oop to Nonfon and Schwachhofer made a reverse lay up with 22 seconds to play. Zentgraf made a free throw for the 74-71 advantage and little time to play. ‘We gave up too much and Nikolic remained really strong. We were too passive in the pick and roll defense’, stressed Khee Rhee. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg had little time, but Stuebel made the crazy off balance bank shot to propel his team into overtime. ‘I didn’t want to make the bank shot. I had little time and had a hand in my face. I had to let it go. I had a good feeling for 2 seconds, but I didn’t celebrate because I knew that we still had to play overtime’, commented Luca Stuebel (189-PG-2004).

Luca Steubel to the hole

The game remained tight in overtime as no team could escape the other. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners got a quick basket by Marvin Esser, but the lead didn’t remain long as Veljkovic made free throws. Pruever then made an off balance shot for the 78-76 advantage, but Steuble with his buzzer beater fresh on his mind continued to have the hot hand making a trey and lay in and 81-78 Ludwigsburg lead. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners continued to play with so much heart as they were still searching for that first win as Julian Haskins made an off balance shot and Nikolic once again foiled the Ludwigsburg defense with a lay in and 82-81 Frankfurt advantage. Stuebel continued to get the ball and produce making a free throw and lay in for the 84-82 lead. With less than 30 seconds to go, Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners elected to take the safe 2 and allowed Nikolic to do his magic and make another typical lay in to tie the game at 84-84. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg had 4,8 seconds remaining. Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners did a good job on defense denying the entry, but the inbounds pass somehow found Schwachhofer deep behind the three point line and he just heaved up a hail mary that saw nothing but net. ‘We had one play, but nobody was open. I got open. I knew I had only 1,9 seconds so I had to shoot it. I felt very confident taking the shot’, stressed Sebastian Schwachhofer. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg was led by Luca Stuebel with 21 points. Sebastian Schwachhofer added 16 points while Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners were led by Dusan Nikolic. Hector Izquierdo added 17 points and Joscha Zentgraf 15 points. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 47% form the field and 42% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 30 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt-Fraport Skyliners shot 50% form the field and 14% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 25 turnovers.

Rayshaun Hammonds (206-C-1998, college: Georgia) is a 24 year old 206cm center that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany with BG Goettingen averaging 9,3ppg, 5,1rpg, 1,2apg and 1,2spg. He has scored in double figures in 5 games including 23 points against Bamberg and 18 against Rostock. Last season he played with VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL) averaging 11.1ppg, Reb-4 (6.1rpg), 1.1apg, FGP: 62.1%, FT: 68.0%; and in the BCL averaged 9.4ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 71.4%, FT: 71.4%; and in the EstLatBL averaged 10.5ppg, 7.0rpg, FGP: 62.1%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 74.2%. As a rookie he played with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (NBA G League) averaging 6.1ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 80.0%. He began his professional career with Norcross High School and then played at the University of Georgia (NCAA) averaging 12.9ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 65.2% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I’m in Germany now and basketball life is treating me good at the moment.

Congrats on signing with German easyCredit BBl team BG Goettingen. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

Thanks and I heard Germany is a good and fun country. The basketball in Germany is good competition.

How did the talks go with coach Roel Moers? He appreciates your inside out game. What did you like from his basketball philosophy?

The talk with coach went very good we had a great conversation and yes he appreciates my inside and outside game. He played professional basketball so his basketball philosophy is very high.

The easyCredit BBL is a top 5 league in Europe.How confident are you that your game will translate over from Latvia where you had a decent first season overseas?

I’m very confident in my game to translate over in this league.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare it to a Lamar Odom and a Chris Bosh.

Is it fair to say that you are a modern day forward? Would you call your inside or outside game more defined?

Yes I would say that because I can guard 1 thru the 5, shoot the ball very well and handle the ball. I would call my game both.

You can score and rebound, but what other strengths does your game incorporate?

Being able to guard every position and being consistent.

One thing that really stands out for me is your efficiency. It really improved last season. Your doing more in your minutes than what you did in the NCAA. How do you explain that?

Just slowing the game down more when I play and picking my spot where I want to score at on the court.

Would it be fair to say that your defense is still developing and your raw? What kind of defender are you now and what kind of defender do you want to become?

Yes I would say that. I’m better defender now because this summer that one was my mean focus was to get better at that and I want be a lock down defender.

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

I really working on everything in my game.

Last season you played VEF Riga (Latvia-LBL) winning 2 titles. There are guys that play 10+ seasons and never win a chip. How special was last season for you?

That was very special because it was my first year and I see how it feel to win 2 titles.

The finals against Ventspils was very exciting. You had a monster 25/10 game in game 3 giving your team the 2-1 series lead. What will you always remember from this game?

Yes I always remember that game because we needed that win and that series.

What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas in Latvia where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I just had to embrace it and be ready for it and being far home didn’t bother me at all.

In the summer of 2021 you played NBA Summer League with the Toronto Raptors where you were teammates with Freddie Gillespie who you will face this season in the BBL. When you see a guy like that who played in the NBA and yourself, is there so much missing from your game to reach that level?

It’s just timing and the right opportunity with the right time.

You began your rookie season with the Indiana Pacers. What kind of experience was that and what do you remember their coaching staff giving you on advice besides the usual blab la like keep working hard?

That experience was fun because I learn so much every guy on that time and saw how it was to be a good pro.

You played your rookie season in the G-League averaging 6/4 in 11 minutes and being pretty efficient again. What do you believe did you learn most from this experience?

Just work hard and stay locked in with the game.

How difficult was it playing only 11 minutes per game? Did you feel like you were only a body to fill the roster? Were NBA fringe guys treated differently than you?

The minutes that was given to me I just work with them.

What was the best example that you saw in the G-League where the NBA is always a business first?

There where a lot of good examples I saw form the g league and I do and don’t believe the nba is a business first.

You played at Georgia (NCAA) from 2017-2020. In your freshman year you played Kentucky for the first time losing 66-61 and had 12 points and held your own against future NBA guys like Knox, Diallo, Washington and Gilgeous-Alexander. What do you remember from that game and what Wild Cat stood out the most?

That game was very fun and it was very loud in the arena and remember I played against all them in high school so it was just another game for me.

You had many great games at Georgia but was your 31 points in the win over Illinois State one of your most fondest?

Yea that was game was fun because I was just playing my game.

How did head coach Mark Fox groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Just showed me how be a man and a professional.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Yante Maten?

That would be a good game in I would say me.

Who was the toughest guy besides your brother that you have faced on the court that reached the NBA?

Miles Bridges

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Dalvin White, Nick Claxton, Anthony Edwards, Jalen Riley, Ron Curry

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, joe Johnson, Paul George, Michael Jordan

Where do you rank Steph Curry now in the best point guards of all-time?

He is top 5

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

I would say Lebron James

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

Yea I did and they should never made the sequel.

Thanks Rayshaun for the chat.

Tags : RAYSHAUN HAMMONDS, BG GOETTINGEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL