BBL

Mario Matic Believes The Heightened Self Confidence Of Dennis Schroeder Puts Him Over The Top As He Can Miss 5 Shots In A Row And Then Hit The 6th To Decide The Game

pic credit: FIBA

Mario Matic is an ex professional player that played in the German BBL with Nordlingen and currently is in his 10th season as a head coach with TSV Oberhaching Tropics He began his coaching career with Nordlingen where he was for 6 years. As a player he played 11 years in Germany for teams like Karlsruhe, Crailsheim, Kaiserslautern, Bayreuth, Nordlingen and BG Leitershofe. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Mario for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

I was really happy for all the people who were involved. I was especially really happy for Alan Ibrahimagic who stayed grounded and worked so well in guiding the team. This title will give German basketball another boost. More kids will want to play.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

I would say that 3 out of 10 German fans would have predicted a Gold medal. I feel like Serbia was the top favorite, but Germany was close behind with all the NBA and Euroleague players. Germany had a great roster.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

You can´t compare the 1993 win. That was a total surprise and a huge sensation. I was 13 and that title brought me to basketball. Germany wasn´t a favorite like Germany is now. Germany wasn´t known on the basketball map in 1993, but a respected and known basketball nation now.

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

It was a high level final with many shots made. I did have a feeling a few times when Turkey got their lead up to 5-6 points that if they had reached +10 that then the game could have had a different outcome. But Germany always had an answer and struck back. Turkey had a shorter rotation and the German role players were key always giving important impulses in key moments.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a los in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

You do get that feeling now. You kind of figured that Schroeder would come up big in crunch time. His unbelievable self confidence is a huge factor for his success.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

Yes the bench was the difference. So many guys stepped up in key moments. Johannes Thiemann had big moments in the final

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

I feel like he was already really good 2 years ago. He wasn´t that strong in the final, but overall, he had a strong tournament. If he can get a stable shot, then he won´t be stooped. He has more experience and got stronger. His drive is already unstoppable.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

After the way he played, he should have NBA offers. He developed really well at Partizan last season. His shot has become so much better.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

His biggest strength is his massive self-confidence. He can miss 5 shots, but then hit that 6th shot which can decide a game. He has that special touch and ability to take responsibility at the biggest moments of a game.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

I honestly don´t follow the NBA so much. There is simply a lot of competition at the guard position in the NBA. You have more combo type guards and scoring guards which seem to be more desired. Schroeder is more the type of player that leads a team.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

With all due respect to Schroder, he isn´t at the same level as Dirk Nowitzki. Schroeder had great teammates while Nowitzki didn´t have the same type of support 20 years ago.

One of the big winners is your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

He gave freedom to the team, but also had clear instructions. He always found the right words. It wasn´t really complex what he said, but the team executed. He was really responsible for the good atmosphere and chemistry.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

I think the three pointer by Daniel Theis was the most important shot. Without that shot, you don´t win.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

Yes you can and their time isn´t over yet. I see a very rosy future for German basketball.

This dynasty should go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

I think the success can keep going. But when some guys retire in next years, you will have to put the expectations down a bit. One has to remember where the state of German basketball was 10 years ago. It wasn´t good. I´m sure the young guys coming up will continue to develop and lead Germany to success. I see a very good future.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

I think that the work ethic with German players is good. The success has to do with the Infrastructure. It is very good. You can´t compare it to the time when I was a kid. The clubs all work so well in having their youth kids develop the right way. Players get double license and get minutes. I think that the success now shows that all the hard work the last years has been rewarded.

Thanks Mario for the chat.

Stefan Smith Displays 35 Points In Best Steph Manner Leading The MHP Riesen Past The Skyliners 101-96 In OT Cup Thriller

It was a long 4 months without basketball in Frankfurt, but finally the season commenced with a cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Both teams had produced a house cleaning and had new coaches. Well in Frankfurt Klaus Perwas was technically not new, but for the first time in his career was the head coach for good and from day 1 in a new season. Both teams wanted to get off to a good start as they would see each other in only a bit more than a week later for the first Frankfurt home game of the regular season. The cup season has few games and a title at the end. Ludwigsburg were still seeking their first cup title while Frankfurt last won in 2000 in their first season with head coach Stefan Koch. No fans could complain about the excitement after 45 minutes as Stefan Smith (187-G-1999, college: St.John’s, agency: Players Group) pulled out 17 points in overtime in best Steph Curry Manner nailing big shot after big shot leading the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg past the Skyliners 101-96 to move to the next round in cup action. After Stefan Smith posted 35 points in his easyCredit BBL debut, he wasn´t all smiles, but knew exactly where his team had to work on in the lab the next day. “I´m happy that we got the win, but we were inconsistent especially on defense. We have to do a better job on defense and not foul so much. We made steps today. If you can find a way to win when it´s ugly, then that’s a skill. We have to clean up our defense”, stressed ex University Of Vermont (NCAA) guard Stefan Smith. I don´t know if any of the players will have a sleepless night, but head coach Klaus Perwas couldn´t be pleased about the given up free throws and missed free throws. Frankfurt was in control of the game in the third quarter and should have won the game hadn´t they missed 15 free throws. “This was a very tough game. We had control in the third quarter, but they came back hitting open three´s. We have to do a better job on the defensive glass. Smith made tough shots in overtime. We will see them again next week and be ready”, stressed ex Artland Dragon William Christmas.

Jaedon LeDee at the FT line

Bad rain and a mid week date didn´t get many fans into the arena as those who did come saw a very nervous first few minutes of the first quarter as shots weren´t falling and turnovers was on the menu of both clubs. German Brandon Tischler and ex Princeton (NCAA) center Keeshawn Kellman got the guests on the board while ex Bonn center Til Pape and ex NCAA finalist Jaedon LeDee scored for Frankfurt as the game was dead locked 4-4. However the guests then stepped up their game going on a 9-2 run to lead 13-6. In the run, Ludwigsburg got 2 put backs from German Lenny Anigbata and ex Utah Jazz American Elijah Hughes while ex Emporia State (NCAA2) guard Trae Buchanon drilled home a trey. Ludwigsburg upped their intensity at both ends and worked harder on the boards. Frankfurt had some open looks, but the shots just didn´t want to fall. However basketball wouldn´t be basketball without runs and sometimes a game can change so quickly. Frankfurt clawed their way back going on a brutal 13-4 run to dead lock the game at 17-17. BBL rookie Isaiah Swope who played at St Louis (NCAA) nailed home 2 three´s while ex St John´s guard Nahiem Alleyne also scored from outside. Swope showed instantly that he could be this season´s version of Malik Parsons. Frankfurt kept up the pressure and execution rate leading 21-19 after 10 minutes. “I feel like it took both teams some time to get comfortable. Both teams were nervous and had first game jitters. Both teams also had new guys and everyone needs to get comfortable with each other”, stated Stefan Smith. Ludwigsburg controlled the boards in the first quarter with 7 offensive rebounds.

Stefan Smith at the FT line

The second quarter was very tight and the MHP Riesen attempted to get away in the latter part and led by 5 points, but Frankfurt fought back leading 40-39 at the break. Both teams found their offensive rhythm rapidly and LeDee scored twice with a lay in and tap in. He showed in his first game how well he moves without the ball and seems to almost always get open for the mid distance shot, but at the same time is extremely active on the glass. While Ludwigsburg countered with a lay in by Buchanan, a runner by Babacar Sane from Senegal and young German Julis Baumer dropped a trey from the corner for the 26-25 guests lead. Baumer did his job coming from the bench and giving instant energy. Frankfurt stole the lead back with a clutch trey from German Radii Casin, but Ludwigsburg continued to be very aggressive in the paint getting 2 dunks from Kellman and Hughes to tie the game at 31-31. Smith who seemed to be all over the court made a pretty cross court bullet pass for the Hughes dunk. The guests high intensity helped them get a 8-3 run to lead 39-34. Smith continued to lead his team well finding ex Skyliner Jonas Wolfarth-Botterman for the lay in on the pick and roll and made free throws while Buchanan hit another three pointer. However Ludwigsburg couldn´t carry the momentum into the break as Frankfurt stayed as tough as nails going on a 7-0 run to lead by one point. Frankfurt attacked the rim fiercely getting free throws by ex Creighton (NCAA) big man Ryan Hawkins and ex G-League slam dunk champion Logan Johnson. Johnson then showed his speed scoring on transition to end the first half. “Both teams were figuring out how to find their flow on offense. I feel like the free throws limited both teams flow. That was why the game was so close”, added Stefan Smith. Ludwigsburg continued to control the glass 23-17 and had 9 offensive turnovers.

Isaiah Swope with the runner

In the third quarter the Skyliners missed a golden opportunity to really run away with the game as they led by as much as 9 points, but the MHP RIesen scrapped their way back to deadlock the contest at 59-59. Frankfurt got good support from German Till Pape who made a hook shot and dunk and Logan Johnson with points, but they couldn´t get away as Stef Smith made an off balance shot and free throws as the Skyliners led 46-45. Frankfurt then found some daylight going on a 11-4 run to lead 57-49. In the run, Frankfurt got back to back 20 footers from LeDee while Christmas made a lay in, Swope a pull up jumper and Pape free throws. The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg went by the motto if three´s aren´t falling keep shooting. However in their case three´s weren´t falling which allowed Frankfurt to attain their biggest lead of the game. However Frankfurt was unable to ride the momentum longer as they lost some focus allowing a 10-2 run by Ludwigsburg. Frankfurt coughed up the ball 3 times which led to three´s by Smith and Hughes. “We did a good job not to panic. We had some tough possessions which led to turnovers, but we kept being aggressive and got to the free throw line”, commented Stefan Smith. “That was a tough phase at the end where we let them come back. The refs were calling the game tight. We have to play better defense and keep our hands off them”, stated William Christmas.

Brandon Tischler from outside

The fourth quarter was supper tight until the end. Ludwigsburg even had an opportunity to win the game on the last shot, but missed. Frankfurt´s free throw misery continued in the first minute as Logan Johnson only made 2 of 4 shots and they couldn´t keep the slim lead as Wolfarth-Bottermann once again was set up nicely by Smith for an easy lay up and a Tischler trey tied the game at 64-64. Frankfurt then escaped out on a 5-0 run to lead 69-64 with a Lorenz Brenneke tip in and Swope three pointer, but the guests struck back with 5 unanswered points as Sane drilled home a trey and Hughes made a 20 footer for 69-69 game. After a Hawkins trey, Ludwigsburg got the lead back again 74-72 as Buchanan made a floater and Hughes a deep three. The ex NBA player made it look so effortlessly. However the Skyliners had many weapons on this night as now was the time of William Christmas who scored 6 points in a row for the 79-78 advantage in crunch-time. Christmas was also making big defensive plays to secure the slim lead. However now it was Ludwigsburg´s time again as 40 year old dino Yorman Polas made a step back and Buchanan a jumper for the 81-78 lead with 1,10 to play. However Frankfurt stayed calm as Logan Johnson made a quick pass to LeDee for the dunk as Frankfurt trailed 81-80. After a Ludwigsburg and LeDee turnovers, Buchanan struck with free throws for the 83-80 advantage with 16 seconds to go. LeDee then nailed a clutch three pointer to force overtime. “We had the game won. We missed free throws and they made free throws. Buchanan made big shots. You just have to live with them”. Commented Will Christmas. “It went back and forth in the fourth quarter. LeDee hit a big three. As did Buchanan. Traevon lives for those moments. We have a lot of confidence in him”, warned Stefan Smith.

Stefan Smith from downtwon

In the overtime period, it was literally the Stefan Smith show as he hit 17 of 18 points to help win the game. He scored the first 8 points of the extra time with free throws and 2 three´s for the 91-83 lead. Christmas then added 3 points, but Smith continued to be in execution mode making 4 points for the 96-86 advantage. Frankfurt was in a hole now and Stefan Smith had control of the game and wasn´t about to slow down now. After a Christmas trey, Smith made another lay in for the 98-89 lead. Frankfurt did close out the overtime period with a 7-3 run as Alleyne made a lay in and Christmas a three pointer, but it was too little too late. Smith´s 35 points weren´t a career high as he had scored 38 and 36 points in Serbia, but his 17 points had to have been a career high in a OT period. “It probably was. I did struggle shooting the ball in the game. But I have a lot of confidence in my game and my teammates and coaches the same in me. I just kept shooting and kept shooting as they kept going in. I have spent a lot of time in the gym my whole life. This performance weas a very exciting moment for me”, stressed Stefan Smith. “I wouldn´t call that a Curry performance, but give him credit for making big shots. We can´t let a player take over like that. We have to be able to take his strength away. We have to be able to make better adjustments on him”, warned William Christmas. The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg were led by Stefan Smith with 35 points. Traevon Buchanan added 15 points and Elijah Hughes added 13 points while the Skyliners were led by William Christmas with 22 points while Jaedon LeDee added 19 points. The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg shot 46% from the field and 33% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 19 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 38% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

In Klaus Perwas We Trust As Could This Be The Season Where The Skyliners Finally Make The BBL Playoffs Again?

Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

It feels like an eternity since the last time the Skyliners made the easyCredit BBL playoffs. The last time the 2000 BBL cup winner reached the promised land not including the Covid season, they were led by the historic Gordon Herbert. Even if a guy like Gunnar Wobke surely could of predicted some things in the future when regarding Herbert, I’m sure nobody would ever have thought that the Canadian would be very responsible for the German national team having so much success. When the Skyliners bowed out to FC Bayern Munich in the spring of 2018, Franz Wagner was still a NBBL player, Isaac Bonga wasn’t even drafted by the NBA yet and Luka Doncic was still with Real Madrid. The Skyliners in the last 7 years have been an organization that have really struggled. It was even that bad, that the club had to play a season in the Pro A. The 2023-2024 was successful in that they moved right back to the BBL as that is definitely a feat. Teams like Bremerhaven, Giessen and Trier have stayed in the Pro A for years showing you can build yourself a rut in the Pro A.. Having enough money in the budget has always been a problem for the Skyliners. Often one reels in young Americans with little experience and just hope for the best. The best news story going into the 2025-2026 season is that they finally have Klaus Perwas as head coach. Perwas had always been the faithful assistant coach and once in a while even was interim head coach, but having the main responsibility was never his cup of tea. Somehow Wobke was able to persuade him to do the head coach job. Perwas is a coach that had been responsible for helping developing so many young Germans over the years and if there is 1 player that knows if Perwas can handle the head coaching job then it Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson who played there form 2009-2023. ‘ He was always cool and focused as an assistant coach. Now as head coach, we can see how he does everything his way. His defensive principles were always the same as Gordie Herbert. Now we will see how his offense will work. He has always been known as a defensive coach, but now we will see how the Skyliners offense works’, warned Quantez Robertson. With Perwas as head coach and a face lift with the roster, could this finally be the season again where the Skyliners make the playoffs?

You never really know what to expect when a club produces a fine house cleaning as they reeled in 7 new players. From the new players, the club have added a healthy mix of young and experience. But they also kept a healthy core from last year. Important is having that solid duo at the big positions with Lorenz Brenneke and Jacob Knauf. Both have experienced highs and lows over the years. Brenneke will bang inside while Knauf likes to sparkle form outside while also helping inside. The team added 2 really talented bigs with BBL experienced versatile Till Pape who played the last 2 years in Bonn and newcomer Ryan Hawkins who played in France and Italy the last 2 seasons and also sparkled with his versatile game while he shot 45% from outside in his last 2 seasons in the NCAA 2. The team also reeled in Radii Caisin and Jaedon LeDee for the forward positions. Casin played parts of 4 seasons in the BBL with 3 teams and played 96 BBL games, but never averaged more than 3,3ppg in a season. After 2 successful seasons with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) where he averaged 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2% last season, he is hungry for his BBL break through this season. With LeDee, the Skyliners could have a guy that will be one of their consistent scorers in the season while also grabbing many rebounds. He played his rookie season in the G-League and reached the NCAA final in 2023 with San Diego State University.

The Skyliners are also very deep and talented at the guard position. Going into the season, they have 3 players with BBL experience with Garai Zeeb, Will Christmas and Marcus Domask. Zeeb is going into his 7th season with Frankfurt and has 147 BBL games under his belt. He is a great team player that will give effective minutes form the bench. Christmas is like a mini Cinderella story. He began in the Pro B and via Luxemburg reached the BBL and became a solid player player. He fills the stats sheet and is a consistent scorer while Domask already had a short tour of duty last season with Frankfurt. He is another versatile player that has G-League experience and showed last season that he needs no adjustment time to the BBL. The club also added 3 more guards with 2 with no experience overseas with Logan Johnson and Isaiah Swope and Nahiem Alleyne who has experience in Greece and Poland and played at 3 NCAA schools including UConn and Virginia Tech. Johnson is probably one of the more interesting signings as he is the point guard and will run the team. His dunking and athleticism may stand out, but he knows how to lead a team a she showed as a rookie with the Oklahoma City Blue averaging 10.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.6%, FT: 76.1%. Isaiah Swope is a rookie and showed at 3 schools in the NCAA that he could adapt to any coach averaging 16/3/3 in his last 3 years. He is quick and gets to the hoop well. This could be Malik Parsons’s 2,0. Alleyne is a great shooter that averaged 38% from down town in 3 years at Virginia Tech. But as a rookie overseas had growing pains. The gritty defender is hungry for his overseas break through in Frankfurt. The Skyliners also have 2 talented young Germans with Ivan Crnjak and Jamie Edoka who had solid Pro B seasons in 2024-2025 and are planned for the main BBL rotation. However this Skyliners roster is talented and deep. The question is will they anything besides garbage time minutes this season?

So what will be the fate of the Skyliners this season. The excitement is massive simply because Klaus Perwas is the head coach from day 1 of a season. He has been known for being a coach who prides his team to play defense. One saw that philosophy under Gordon Herbert and with Denis Wucherer in the Pro A. It will be interesting to see how he wheels and deals with the offense. The club definitely have offensive weapons and should score much on a consistent level and it will be interesting to see how well the players are able to identify and accept their roles. The team has valuable shooting players but a team also with big men who finish at the paint. One can only hope they become more than just a shooting team. With the athleticism, the team should play fast as well. The team should be an above average rebounding team and sky is the limit at the defensive end. The club has many hungry players that will want to produce and have to not only execute on the offensive end. The Skyliners aren’t the only club with many new players, but there are so many other teams with the same scenario with new players. The question is always how well can these new guys get integrated to the easyCredit BBL and how well can the coach develop that correct team chemistry. The Skyliners have many guys with LeDee, Swope and Johnson where the potential to be successful is great. That is one of the exciting aspects to every season. Can some of these BBL newcomers break out or will they be flops. The Skyliners schedule in the first month is difficult to evaluate as it is hard to rate how well an Oldenburg and Ludwigsburg will play as they have many new faces. However MBC and Braunschweig are teams that have had success recently and won’t be cake walks. A good start to a season is always beneficial. Predicting where the Skyliners will finish is never easy. However I will bold enough to say that they won’t be 17th or 16th in May 2026. I see this team being a club that could be one on of the surprise teams this season, if many things go right and they aren’t hit by the injury bug. I see them somewhere from 8-14. It is finally time again for the faithful Skyliners fans to have joy again. The suffering in the last years simply has been to long There is that famous phrase on the US 1 $. In God we trust. Skyliner fans should etch ‘In Klaus Perwas we trust’.

Head Coach Max Becker(Dragons Rhondorf) Wants To Help Bring Excitement Back To The Dragon Dome

pic credit: Martin Jung

Only a couple of seasons ago, the Dragons Rhondorf were about to commence on their breathtaking Pro B title season that presented so many happy faces in the Dragon Dome that season. Germany had just become World Champion and Harry Kane was in the starting gate of his scoring mission and winning ways with FC Bayern Munich. Who can forget the players that season that featured guys like Kelvin Omojola, Avery Sullivan, Tyrese Blunt and Badu Buck. Those are memories that will last a lifetime. Only 1 player remains from that season with Lagui Diallo and from last season add on Kenan Reinhart. A lot has changed in this time, but if a Dragon fan becomes really sad and wants to relive those memories in another place, who knows it might happen only a short 49 minute 41 kilometer ride down the Rhine river to Koblenz. There you will see coaches Dohrn, Sherril and Schallenberg as well as Badu Buck. But that is in the past and the Dragons Rhondorf want to make new history this season. They made a house cleaning and inserted a new coach with 26 year old Max Becker . At first glance, he looks like a kid, but he definitely coaches like a man. ““He may look like a kid, but he can get mad. Then he definitely doesn´t act like a kid. He is still young, but I´m confident that he will do a good job”, stressed Kenan Reinhart. Becker did a good job coaching the Bonn/Rhondorf NBBL team and knows his new team well as he has guys from last season´s team this season. “I´m not nervous, but have positive joy. I have full confidence of all involved. I´m really motivated for the season”, stated Max Becker . Does he feel pressure taking over the pro B team? “Not really. I feel relaxed. I have incredible people around me from Bonn/Rhondorf and their full trust. The work ethic and communication of all is very positive. I mean there is always pressure, but that is why we do the job”, expressed Max Becker . His personal goal is straight forward. “I want to bring that fan excitement back to the Dragon Dome. We have had our ups and downs the last season. I was born into this organization. I know what kind of excitement has been here before. I want to help bring that excitement back”, warned Max Becker.

The organization hauled in a core of 3 very experienced players that will be share the responsibility of leading the team. With giant Daniel Mayr, they have a player that has Euroleague experience with FC Bayern Munich and was the best shot blocker in the Pro B 3 times. With Juhwan Harris-Dyson, their new version of a Swiss army knife who by the way is a scoring bucket having showed it in Herford and Hagen and Jorge Mejias who played youth basketball at Real Madrid at the same time as Luka Doncic was there a few years before his departure to the NBA in 2018. Mejias is a solid scorer and great playmaker who averaged 6,0apg with Iserlohn last season. With Lagui Diallo the team has a great team player and energizer that can get hot at times from outside and shut down the other teams best player. Ex RheinStar Cologne guard Kenan Reinhart has high expectations this season and would like to average 10,0ppg in the Pro B. Will he make the next step? “Kenan is very ambitious. He knows what he gets from me and I from him. He has worked hard. I feel like he has already improved his game this summer. I see him taking on a bigger role”, warned Max Becker . The club also hauled in talented big men Duje Dujmovic and Benjamin Sadikovic. Dujmovic made the next step in Neustadt last season averaging 10/4 and Sadikovic averaged 5/4 in Oberaching last season. “They both have a lot of potential despite their age. Both are really focused and alert in the BBL Bonn practices”, stated Max Becker . Another interesting pick up was Dusan “Mr quick release” Ilic who averaged 20,0ppg and 10,oapg with BBA Hagen in the NBBL. He is only 16, but has the potential for the next step. The team also has many young guys with Carlo Schmid, Remi Voelkers, Vuk Scepanovic, David Boning, Leonard Franzen, Fynn Dobiecki, Malik Idbihi and Tom Viehofer prepared to get minutes. “We have 10 of the 16 man roster that are NBBL players. They all will have a chance to play, but need to earn it”, warned Max Becker .

So what kind of a play style will the Dragons Rhondorf showcase in games? “We will play at a high pace with quick decisions and play very aggressive defense. We want to take the advantages that are presented to us on the court with our height, shooting or on the pick and roll”, warned Max Becker . Two years ago, the Dragons Rhondorf had 3 very potent bigs with Avery Sullivan, Leon Bullic and Ferenc Gille, but despite that were more of a shooting team. Last season, they had even less of a big man presence with only center Danas Kazakevicious. This season there are 3 bigs. Will there be more focus on the bigs? “Yes definitely. We will focus on the pick and roll and have more opportunities as well to get our shooters involved. Our bigs will be very much involved”, commented Max Becker . Will the team have enough scoring power? Will there be more go to guys than only Mejias, Harris-Dyson or Mayr? “I feel like we have a very balanced team. It will always depend on the game, opportunity and situation. I have the highest confidence that everyone will have the confidence to take the big shot”, warned Max Becker . On defense the name of the game will be being aggressive. That is something that each player will have plastered in their mind. “We will be aggressive at all times in all defensive forms. We will always be active on defense and not be passive and react”, stated Max Becker . Becker is very confident in his time so early in the season and also has an ambitious season goal. “We want to get the best positive result in the standings and in the development of the players. We believe in ourselves and want to reach the playoffs”, warned Max Becker . It will be interesting to see where the journey of the Dragons Rhondorf will go. They will have to find a defensive identity quickly as the Pro B North is never a cake walk. We know what we will get from the experienced guys, but getting consistency from young players will be vital for the team having a shot at the playoffs. I see the team landing somewhere between 7-11 in the season

Niklas Pons Remembers Isaac Bonga Already Being Ambitious And Leading The Team As A Youth Player

Pic credit: FIBA

Niklas Pons (192-SG-1999) is a 26 year old 192cm guard that is playing his ninth season with TV Langen playing 112 games in his career there and this season averaged 12/3/5/1 and helped win the South West Regionalliga title. He also played 3 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors and was a member of the U-16 youth national team. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Niklas for talking to eurobasket.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?
I was very happy and I believe German basketball is on the right path.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

3 out of 10 would have believed that Germany could win european Championship.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

Unfortunately, I wasn’t born yet back then and can’t remember it.

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

Germany ended up winning because, on the one hand, they have more depth, and on the other hand, everyone brought their strengths to the team.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

The hunger for medals/success drives the guys. Also, knowing that you can win even more with this special team.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a los in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

The whole game I thought they had another gear left in the tank and would win in the end.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

The deep bench gives the German team so many more options in their play, making them very difficult to scout. On top of that, it helps when the guys coming off the bench provide important energy.

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

He has improved in every category. What I especially like is his transition offense with his Euro step.

You played NBBL youth basketball with Isaac Bonga. He is world champion and Euro champion. Did you notice a sort of winner mentality in Frankfurt that was starting to develop there?

Isaac was always very ambitious and even as a young player already led the team.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn’t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

I would be very happy if Isaac got a second chance in the NBA. In my opinion, he has shown that he can make life difficult for superstars with his defense. Offensively, he is a threat.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Dennis’ ability to take over in crucial moments is incredible and probably one of the best there will ever be.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

I think the NBA executives have the wrong picture of him. Dennis gets better every year, and I’m sure he can lead a team – provided he is given the trust.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki’s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

For me, both are the GOATs of their era. You shouldn’t compare them since they are two different types of players.

One of the big winners was Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

Alan helped the guys in the sense that he gave them a lot of freedom and has known most of them for a very long time.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga’s dunk or Franz Wagner’s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

Every play was a highlight. You really have to watch the whole game.

This dynasty should go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

I believe Germany has a lot of potential, and that the successful generations will show the next ones how to win.

Often now adays the talk is young players aren’t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren’t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

I think that hunger is becoming rarer, since many kids nowadays have so many opportunities to get jobs. Basketball is no longer the one and only option.

Thanks Niklas for the chat.

American Guys Like Joe Asberry Elijah Allen And Omari Knox Are Just As Much Responsible For Helping German Basketball Development With Their Training Of German Kids

Joe Asberry is a legend. He is an American ex professional basketball player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. Since retiring from the game, he has been a spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, guest speaker, worked in the Alba Berlin organization, been a master of ceremonies for UBC Hannover and been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball player.Currently he is in his second season with the Artland Dragons organization coaching girls U-14 and U-16 and boys U-18. A big focus in his basketball life in Germany has been working with kids. Not only keeping them out of trouble and being an excellent role model, but also teaching them the game. He sees joy in a young German kid having success on the court just as much as he does seeing Steph Curry bury a three pointer for his home town team Golden State Warriors. There is probably no other American in Germany now that has worked as long with kids as he has. He has been following and been involved with the rise of German basketball just as much as German coaches who have worked endless hours helping kids develop. But all in all, it isn´t only Germans and Joe Asberry who have contributed to the youth development but so many other Americans. How often do you see an American from the BBL to the Oberliga help coach youth teams? It is everywhere especially with lower level teams where Americans have so much free time on their hands, why not give a hand with guiding the kids? “Guys like Elijah Allen (194-PF-1989, college: NW Missouri St.), Omari Knox, Levi Levine, Ronny Weihmann, Andrew Jones, Coach Omar Sylla (just to name a few) have been training youth here for YEARS! Teaching them how to be shifty,and play like PRO´S, instead of ROBOTS, who CAN´T create their own shot. My guy Misan Nikagbate, (yes,the same beast who played for the National Team) has been training kids daily since 2017! Everytime I call Misan,I say,”Can I speak to the Gentleman, that Dunked on Yao Ming Please”? So yes, I saw this coming, that Germans were on the Road to Success”, laughed Joe Asberry.

Of course Joe Asberry followed the magical run of Germany the last weeks and even if he will always root for his home land USA, he is proud of the success of German basketball.

“As an American, I´m thrilled that Germany won the Euro Chip. It means more kids will fall in love with the sport. I´ll give myself credit for helping a Gang of kids here in Germany, fall in Love with Basketball. When the National Team wins ANY American,doing basketball business in Germany WINS”, warned Joe Asberry.

Joe Asberry has seen his share of titles in USA and Europe and has a very special connection to Germany´s surprising win in 1993 over Russia.

Back in 1993, I got a shot at Pro Basketball in the Second Division in Finland. So when my dawg,Big Chris Welp won his chip, it was a special feeling. I was so happy for him. When he played for the Golden State Warriors he gave me money to take back to my hood in the Bay to get everyone hammered, and that´s exactly what I did. I flew from Tampere to San Francisco, and told my dawgs, the big fella won a chip, CHEERS! “, stressed Joe Asberry.

Would it have been crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? With the success of German basketball in the last years, would it have been Ok to predict a Gold or been more unrealistic?

“I´m sure all German Fan´s thought their Team was going to win Gold. Dennis Schroeder is a Beast! Mo and Franz Wagner are REAL LIVE Dogs. Daniel Theis plays basketball like a Grown ass Man! Bonga was the X factor. He doesn´t get enough credit for his Defense. With that wingspan, he can guard 1 thru 5. Those are the stars, but that team is Stacked”, said Joe Asberry.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

“1993 has special meaning for me, because of my Boy,Big Welp, but this Team is unreal. On that last shot, I knew Schroeder would get to his spot and cook, he is so quick and shifty, at that moment, he would have cooked,ANYBODY,in the WORLD”, warned Joe Asberry. Big words from him, but Asberry has seen it all and Schroeder would even have cookeda Victor Wembanyama. And why not his killer instinct would have also gotten him over that tree of a player.

The final game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. Germany´s key to winning the chip was one that every team dreams of having.

“Germany won that Gold Medal because of their Team Chemistry! They put away their ego´s to WIN together”, added Joe Asberry.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

“The best way to keep that Chemistry, is to keep them all together, now they just have to add one more piece, my Boy,Kevin Yebo, another Real Live Dog”, stressed Joe Asberry. The love for Kevin Yebo will always be there from Asberry. Asberry discovered him and watched him move from the Regionalliga to the Euroleague.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I personally was never fearing a loss in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

“Osman and Bona are Elite. Sengun is on his way to becoming a Superstar. Shane Larkin is ELITE ELITE. I was just praying Schroeder and Wagner save the day, and Schroeder saved the day”, smiled Joe Asberry.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

Germany´s bench is deep, but to me the key down the stretch was Schroeder and Wagner. Dennis Schroeder just looks so comfortable with that ball in his hands, and he won´t just chunk up a wild shot to be a hero, he makes the winning plays for his Team”, stated Joe Asberry. I would always give Larry Bird the ball any day and for Germany it´s simply Dennis Schroeder. That´s a fact.

But not only was Dennis Schroeder a massive factor for the success, but also Franz Wagner. The Berlin native was already incredible 2 years ago in the World Cup win, but he is on his way to becoming extra special.

“Franz Wagner is unreal. At that size,with his skillset,the sky is the Limit. When you learn hoops from a Legend like Juwan Howard, you CAN´T GO WRONG! He´s already a star in Orlando, and he is getting better by the minute. Humble Superstar”, warned Joe Asberry.

Joe Asberry dunking back in the day!

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

“Issac Bonga is qualified to play on ANY NBA ROSTER! That man is a BEAST”, added Joe Asberry. I´m sure he will be in the NBA in 2026 and latest in 2027 when He and Germany win the Gold Medal at the Olympics.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How does one explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Dennis Schroeder is one of the best players in the World! With success comes Hate. People judge that Man, and they have ZERO Clue who he is. They have never had a conversation with him. I have inside info though. My man Big Dia, my boy Dami,Ant Watkins, Yebo, all told me he is a good dude. Last but not Least, Coach Livio Calin, (who let me get 1000 makes in,when everyone else was afraid of me, and calling me crazy) gave Schroeder a chance in Braunschweig, and believed in him. Coach Livio told me DS is a good dude, so DS,is a GOOD DUDE! So I´m one of the Fans that LOVES HIM TOO”, warned Joe Asberry.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

Yes, NBA bosses have this perception that he´s arrogant. I heard that from a reliable source. The thing is, when they cut you, or trade you, its all good. But when Dennis Schroeder turned down the Laker deal, they all probably got in their feelings. What they DON´T UNDERSTAND is that Schroeder can NEVER LOSE! He represents Alte Waage! Nobody wants to talk about the Racism he went through in that town. Again, THANK YOU COACH LIVIO”, stressed Joe Asberry. Braunschweig will always be home for Dennis Schroeder and he is giving back by helping the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig continue to make strides as an organization.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

“You can´t compare Dirk Nowitzki and Dennis Schroeder, they´re two different breeds of beasts! It´s always a matter of Opinion. Big Dirk is my Goat, but I´m biased. I´ve had conversations with him, and I´ve never met a guy who was at one time, the best basketball player in the World, and can yet be so nice, and so Humble. He put a NBA Team on his back, and won a Chip. 7 Footer with a Sweet Jay, and we all know that the World has copied his fadeaway off one leg. When my WNBA All star Big Leni masters the “Fall Away Dirky” she will be the next superstar in Germany, no pressure though! LOL”, laughed Joe Asberry.

One of the big winners for Germany and the tournament was Alan Ibrahimagic who went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. Even if he allowed a winning combination bunch of guys play their game, he still had to make key decisions on the sideline.

Salute to Coach Alan. It´s not easy to deal with basketball stars, and their ego´s so to get them all on the same page, is the sign of a Great Coach”, commented Joe Asberry.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. It was no surprise to me what Joe Asberry´s favorite play was.

“My favorite play was Dennis Schroeders Dagger Middy. I made a living off of Dunks and Middy´s so I was thrilled, watching that sweet jay, splash through the net”, said Joe Asberry.

“Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

“German Basketball is HOT! If they beat the Americans and win a Gold Medal in the Olympics, I`ll cry and Dive head first into the Rhine River, please, Pray for me Miles LOL”, stressed Joe Asberry. I definitely will pray for you, but I wouldn´t mind seeing you jump into the Rhine River. It definitely is cleaner than 30 years ago.

Will the dynasty go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

Germany has the chance to keep getting better, if the young guys continue to put in the Work”, warned Joe Asberry.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation? Does the typical German discipline play a role?

“I think the biggest challenge for young German players is Gym time. If a Club doesn´t have constant access to the Gym, then the players will spend way too much time, playing with their phones, instead of Hooping. I can´t speak for other country´s but I know for a fact, American players have access to a Gym,24/7 All of my guys who are Coaches and Trainers stateside, hold all of their players accountable, if they don´t LISTEN, they get CUT”, warned Joe Asberrys.

Is there perhaps a different mentality in Germany? USA always have talented young kids, but how do you see the general mentality and hunger of young American players in 2025?

“The Mentality of American players is different a lot of times, because of the Conditions. That dawg Mentality comes from not having anything, and you want something out of your life, so Basketball becomes the ticket, to have a better life. That´s not something you can Coach. That gives players a slight advantage for sure. On the other hand, kids growing up here in Germany also have an advantage. They can focus on hoops, without a lot of the extra shenanigens in their neighborhoods. It´s just different”, warned Joe Asberry.

So does this Euro title scare team USA? I guess the big showdown will be in 2027 at the Olympics. Germany will be looking to win, but USA will have different players than at the 2024 Olympics. Will Team USA win their next Gold medal?

I´m sure that Team USA will win Gold Again. There are just too many Elite athletes,

with size, incredible skillsets, dawgs, I could go on and on. Then again, I`m a Proud American, who balled in the Michael Jordan era, if Team USA loses, they should all be cut from their teams, and have to start their Career´s over in Helsinki Finland, so they can learn to appreciate NBA Basketball. Shout out to Helsinki though, I loved it,but then again, I`m a Pro Hoop Misfit, who´s claim to fame, is DUNKS, and saving kids LIVES! LOL! I appreciate you Miles”, stressed Joe Asberry. Well I´m sure Finland would love to have some NBA stars in Finland, but honestly the Olympics is USA´s cup of tea. They won´t allow Germany to spoil their party.

Versatile David Ejah(PS Karlsruhe) Has Been Fortunate Having Had Coaches Put Him Into Different Scenario´s That Has Allowed Him To Become A Great Rebounder

David Ejah (201-F-2000, college: Indianapolis, agency: Players Group) is a 24 year old 201cm forward from Indiana playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season with KK Radnicki Gorazde (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 16.6ppg, Reb-2 (11.2rpg), 1.6apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 71.0%. He began his basketball career at Carroll High School and then played 3 seasons at the University of Saint Francis (IN) (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 66.1% and 19.9ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 76.4% in his last 2 seasons. He then finished at the University of Indianapolis (NCAA2) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.6rpg and 8.7ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.3%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks David for talking to eurobasket.com. Congrats on signing with PS Karlsruhe. How blessed do you feel being able to continue to play the game you love for a living?

Thank you and I am truly blessed to be able to continue to play the game I love for a living. It’s a testament to how when you put your full trust in God and the plan he has for you, things will workout in your favor. So, I give him all the Glory for all of this.

Especially not many former NAIA players get to overseas. What do you believe has been your secret to being able to continue to climb the basketball ladder?

The secret I would say is allowing God to work by fully trusting in him and also working hard and being consistent in everything I do.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had any former teammates or friends or opponents play in Germany?

I’ve heard good things about Germany so far, they are people friendly, and the Basketball is great there. I’ve had a teammate from college (Julian Steinfield) who was born and raised in Germany and friend I played against in college (Trevion Crews) played there his first year.

What was the deciding moment that chose you to pick PS Karlsruhe as your next team?

The deciding moment was just kind of seeing how great of an opportunity it was for me to play in a league like this to help boost my career. Also, with the addition of a Coach in Coach Greene who recently came from Bayern Munich, it felt like a perfect opportunity to be able to learn and grow as a professional under him.

How did the talks go with head coach Demond Greene? Did you know that he grew up playing basketball with Dirk Nowitzki and both won the silber at the 2005 Euro?

The talks with Coach Greene went great, I had no idea he grew up playing ball with Dirk and also winning a championship. Our conversation was more of the basics in getting to know each other and how I would be used within the team in helping them win a championship. I’m sure over the next few weeks we will talk more and build that relationship.

What did you appreciate right away about the basketball philosophy of Demond Greene?

I really appreciated how he understood the type of game I bring and how he explained to me how he would be able to use me to the best of my abilities. I could tell he had a vision and my game fit that, so I appreciated that.

You had an incredible rookie season in Bosnia. How confident are you that you will be able to make an impact in the Pro A in Germany?

I am very confident I can carry that over to this league, this league fits my athleticism and what I can do so I believe I can excel and make an impact when my name is called.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201 cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would it be?

Realistically I would compare my game to a more offensive Draymond Green who has athleticism, I am capable of guarding 1-5 if necessary and I can cause a lot of mismatches.

Is it fair to say that versatility could be your middle name? You already were versatile in the NAIA. How have you seen the development of your versatility in the last few years?

Most definitely, I pride myself on being able to be versatile and guard all positions. I still have room to grow, but coaches having to put me in different scenarios over the past few years has really helped me grow in that area.

You’re an amazing rebounder. What do you believe stands out in your rebounding game from others?

I believe the thing that stands out is that you can tell that I really enjoy rebounding, I made my 7th grade basketball team off rebounding alone because that is all I knew how to do at the time, so yea I pride myself on grabbing rebounds every game.

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. Last season in Bosnia you had a 1/10 game and also a 5/7game from down town. What do you have to do to get more stability into your 3 point shooting?

The thing I need to do is to continue to rep it out and find minor things that I can improve on to continue to make my shot consistent. I have had a few seasons where I’ve shot 40% in college so I believe I can get back to those numbers by always being intentional on it whenever I am in the gym.

You’re a very good defender. Talk a little about your defensive game. To what heights do you still want to bring your defensive game to?

My defensive game is predicated off just making sure I always have my motor on, when I play hard good things happen, especially on the defensive end. The heights I would like to take my defensive game to would be to being a consistent 2-way player.

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

Areas that I am working on most at the moment is my shooting, ball-handling, and getting stronger.

You played your rookie season with KK Radnicki Gorazde (Bosnia-Division I) averaging 16.6ppg, Reb-2 (11.2rpg), 1.6apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 71.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake-up call was Christmas Day when we had practice, I think on my way to practice was when it really hit me because all my family was back home spending Christmas together and I was getting ready to practice like any other day. That was difficult at the time.

You had many great games as a rookie, but how special was your 22/22 game in the win over Orlovik? It isn´t usual to have over 20 rebounds.

That game was special for me because it just basically reassured me that I belonged as a Professional Basketball player.

You played 3 seasons at University of Saint Francis (IN) (NAIA) and made huge strides in your last 2 years averaging 17/9. How did your game grow in your last 2 years under Chad LaCross?

My game grew a lot under Coach LaCross in my last 2 years because he basically let me be me. He let me figure things out and make mistakes while still trusting me.

You reached the NAIA Final 4 in 2021. You had an exciting 69-67 win over Stillman? What was so special in that run?

The thing that was so special to me was how my teammate Antwaan Cushinburry was able to will us to the final 4, I was still figuring things out as a player so I had some inconsistencies during that run individually but watching the work he put in on a day to day basis showed me what it would take to do what he did during that run.

You had an incredible 44 /16 game against Great Lakes going 18/21. What memories do you have of that game? How quickly did you know that you would have a great shooting game?

Memories I had from that game was just how focused I was; we were a highly ranked team at the moment so every team we faced really prepared for us. So, it was my job to be focused heading into that game and helping us win a close one. I knew I would have a good shooting game pretty quickly because I came out very aggressive.

You then played 2 seasons with the University of Indianapolis (NCAA2) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.6rpg and 8.7ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.3%. You had many great games including 21 points in a win over William Jewell. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment there was really just being able to play around other talented players and star in a specific role. It was definitely a challenge my first season there, but I knew it would prepare me for the Professional game so just being able to figure that out my second year was a special thing for me.

How did head coach Paul Corsaro give you that last push to prepare you for a pro career?

Coach Corsaro was able to give me that last push by not promising me anything and making me earn everything at Uindy, I really feel like him doing this really helped me grow as a person and player which also made me ready to start my pro career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kendrick Tchoua?

I would have to give it to my guy Kendrick, a true definition of a Paint Beast. It was definitely good battles though, made him earn it.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

I would have to say Keion Brooks; we played each other multiple times in high school.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Antwaan Cushinberry, Arius Jones, Dan Mckeeman, Jarvis Walker, Jesse Bingham

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore

LeBron James, Micheal Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

I have to go Lebron James, we will never see another like him.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

No I did not watch it, but I will say they should have left it alone. Some movies aren’t meant to be replicated and Coming to America is one of them.

Thanks David for the chat.

Being An Actor Like His Dad Was Never On Nicolas Kodjoe´s(FC Bayern Munich 2) Menu As Being An Athlete Was Simply His Calling

nicolas with dad Boris at the U-19 World cup in 2025

Having Hollywood actors and Actresses have their offspring follow in their foot steps is nothing unusual. It definitely happens. From the top of my head, it doesn´t get any better than the father son duo of Kirk Douglas and Michael Douglas who´s careers have spanned more than 80 years. But there are others as well like the family trio of legendary actor Martin Sheen and his sons Charlie and Emilio Estevez who have been gracing the big screens since the 80´s. Some other father and son and daughter duo´s include Sean Connery and Jason and Don Johnson and Dakota. But not all sons and daughters follow in the foot steps of their parents. For example last season Dragons Rhondorf fan Arne Westor told me a real scoop about one of FC Bayern Munich 2 talents Nicolas Kodjoe (198-F/G-2006). I love knowing these fine tidbits for my basketball play by play. He had mentioned to me that his dad Boris was a well known Hollywood actor best known for the TV series Seattle fire fighters. But not only dad Boris is in show business, but also wife and mother of Nicolas Nicole Ali Parker is an actress who played in the 1997 movie Boogie Nights with Mark Wahlberg. But Nicolas didn´t do what Charlie Sheen or Michael Douglas did and take the acting route. Nicolas´s love became basketball. “ I never wanted to act or be a model, It just never appealed to me more than being an athlete”, stressed Nicolas Kodjoe.

Pic credit: FCB Bayern Basketball

Nicolas Kodjoe who spent quality time with family in New York this summer and lists current Boston Celtic Jordan Walsh as his toughest opponent so far was born on Halloween 2006. He grew up in Los Angeles and played at Southern California academy. He has the German citizenship, on account of his dad having a German mother. He began palying for German youth national teams starting in 2022 and right away picked up a Gold medal at the U-16 Euro averaging 4.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg. “There are so many great memories from that tournament. The celebration after winning was pretty great. My role then was to be mainly a defensive player, my role now was to be 3 and D, with the ability to catch and drive”, stated Nicolas Kodjoe. In 2024, he won 2 medals first at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championship U18) winning the Bronze playing 7 games averaging 1.4ppg, 2.7rpg and a few months later won the Gold at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket in Tampere (Finland) averaging 4.8ppg, 2.2rpg. Winning 2 Golds in a span of 2 years was a massive achievement for him. “It was super gratifying to win back to back golds with the same group of guys”, remembered Nicolas Kodjoe. He spent 2 summers in Germany winning Gold medals, but wasn´t the only guy flying in from the States. His teammate Christian Anderson of Texas Tech was also doing it. Despite only being with the squad for a short time during the summers, a bond still was able to form. “After our first win back in 2022, everyone stayed in great contact with each other. Even though everyone went their separate ways, we still remained close. So the last tournament we were a very very close family”, warned Nicolas Kodjoe.

Pic credit: FIBA

The athletic forward who lists Lebron, Jordan, Kobe, and Magic on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore decided to come overseas and played the 2024-2025 season with the FC Munich 2 team that competes in the Pro B and also played with the NBBL (U-19) team. He definitely has learned how to win with the youth national teams and also did with FC Bayern Munich U-19 team. After 3 tries, FC Bayern Munich finally captured the title, the first since 2019. “ The guys had told me about the year before and their final 4 exit. It was a great feeling to help bring a title to Munich”, said Nicolas Kodjoe. He was mainly an energizer short of player from the bench, but stepped up big from the bench scoring 11 points over Vechta. He also had a very solid first Pro B season averaging 4,4ppg, 2,8rpg and 1,1apg. He did his best in the minutes he got always trying to make an impact in any way at both ends of the court. “This year showed me what works and what doesn’t. Especially against grown men. My physicality and aggression is my biggest growing point”, said Nicolas Kodjoe. He couldn´t name 1 player who had the biggest impact on him. All were crucial in him being able to make the adjustment smoother. “Everyone had a unique impact on me, it wouldn’t be right to say just one person. Everyone was crucial to making me feel at home and welcome. But in a way, he has to have a special relationship with roommate Ivan Kharchenkov who is balling at Arizona (NCAA) this season. Did his killer instinct rub off on him? “The most important lesson I learned from Ivan is to not shy away from who you are, play your game, and make everyone see you”, said Nicolas Kodjoe. He didn´t decide to go the NCAA route like so many, but will return back to FC Munich to keep developing in Bavaria. “My biggest goal this year is to help bring this team to the playoffs. My aggression and downhill attack will be on a higher level this year”, warned Nicolas Kodjoe.

Pic credit: FIBA

After winning the NBBL (U-19) title, his winning ways didn´t end in 2025 as in less than 2 months, he helped the German U-19 team win the Silver medal at the World Cup. “This year was a great year of growth for me”, added Nicolas Kodjoe. Germany had some start problems against Slovenia, but then played with discipline at both ends reaching the final. “With every game we played we grew much more disciplined and in control. Maintaining control was one of our keys to winning with each game we played. Maintaining control under any circumstances”, remembered Nicolas Kodjoe. It must have been very enriching for the team being able to play so consistent as a team against so many different countries. “It just proved how much chemistry and balance we have as a team. Our history together really showed in those moments”, expressed Nicolas Kodjoe. Germany had to battle the aggressive and annoying USA and held their own for a half, but then fell apart in the second half. He definitely knew what he was up against as he had played against some of them and trained with them. The athleticism of USA was simply too much for Germany. “The depth that USA had was tough to compete with, their athleticism was brought out because of how rested everyone on their team stayed”, remembered Nicolas Kodjoe. The talent level of Germany was high, but the talent level of USA was maybe a tick higher as there were future NBA draft picks with Dybantsa, Peat and Brown. One of these 3 had the biggest impact on him. “Koa Peat was super fundamental and composed throughout all 4 quarters”, stated Nicolas Kodjoe. With all the medals that he has won, where does the Silver one rank? “This silver ranks 2nd in level of importance”, said Nicolas Kodjoe.

2025 NBBL in Berlin

The forward who names Lebron James as his GOAT has been playing with the same guys now for 3 summers and he has seen them develop and now exactly where the path of Christian Anderson will go. “Chris has an amazing work ethic, skill, and loves to compete. He’s played and will continue to play on the biggest stages if he keeps improving. I believe he will be an NBA player within the next couple of years”, warned Nicolas Kodjoe. Watching big man double double monster Hannes Steinbach do his thing was enriching and he will have to watch from afar as the ex Wurzburg player will be playing for Washington (NCAA) this season. “Hannes’ size and touch around the rim already put him in a very high position. His fight and competitiveness is what puts him even higher”, added Nicolas Kodjoe. He also saw the incredible leadership skills of Alba Berlin guard Jack Kayil flourish. “Jack is a very unselfish guard, he knows where to find you. It’s very fun to play with someone like that”, said Nicolas Kodjoe. Despite only playing 4 games at the U-19 World Cup and 11 minutes less than in the Pro B, his professionalism is huge. Guys like Janne Muller, Tom Stoiber and him had to fight for minutes. His mindset and discipline is already at a high rate. I “I love to play, I want to play, but at the end of the day it is the coaches decision, and I have to live with that”, stressed Nicolas Kodjoe. Even if he didn´t play heavy minutes, the whole experience on and off the court was enriching for him at the U-19 World Cup. He experienced a lot including seeing Dirk Nowitzki in the crowd. “My coolest moment off court was just having downtime with the team, either playing ping pong, or just hanging with the guys. Dirk has been a friend of my father since before I was born, he’s a great person to be around”, warned Nicolas Kodjoe. But nothing will be more special than having that unique brotherhood with 7 guys that began to win at the first tournament in 2022.” No doubt, we will definitely be brothers for years and years to come”, stressed Nicolas Kodjoe.

Florian Flabb Believes That Dirk Nowitzki Built The Foundation And Dennis Schroeder Led The Group That Climbed To The Very Top Of The Mountain

Pic credit: FIBA

Florian Flabb is a German coach who currently is coaching Pro B team Orange Academy and the ratiopharm Ulm NBBL team He began his coaching career as an assistant with the Art Giants and then was a head coach with the NBBL and Pro A team. He also has been an assistant coach with the German U-18 and U-20 teams. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Florian for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

It’s an incredible and historic moment for German basketball. Winning the World Cup in 2023 was already a milestone, but becoming EuroBasket champions in 2025 cements Germany’s place among Europe’s elite. This achievement reflects how far the program has come – from simply aiming to reach the knockout stages to now competing with and defeating traditional powerhouses. The team’s success is built on leadership from Dennis Schröder, the versatility of the Wagner brothers, and a remarkable team chemistry. I hope this title will inspire a new generation of players and spark a true basketball boom in Germany.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

It wasn’t crazy, but definitely bold to predict gold before the tournament. Germany entered as World Champion, yet with strong rivals like Greece with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Turkey with Alperen Sengün, Slovenia with Luka Doncic, and Serbia with Nikola Jokic. If I had to estimate, I’d say about 3 out of 10 German basketball fans would have confidently predicted a gold medal beforehand. Most probably expected a podium finish – silver or bronze – while seeing a second consecutive major title as more of a dream than a realistic expectation.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

Wow, that’s a really tough question — mostly because I was only two years old at the time! My memory from back then is mostly bottles and nap times, so I can’t give you a first-hand comparison. But looking at the numbers and highlights, Germany and Turkey both coming in 8- 0 made it feel like a true clash of titans. Compared to the legendary 1993 win over Russia and the 2023 World Cup final vs. Serbia, this one was probably the highest level basketball Germany has ever played — even if toddler-me had no idea it was happening!

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

Looking back now, that final was nothing short of epic. It was a real dogfight right from the tip-off. Turkey came out incredibly strong, using their size and physicality to set the tone, and at one point they were up by 11 points. Their half-court execution and rebounding really had Germany struggling to find their rhythm early on. What ultimately won Germany the gold medal was the depth and balance of their roster. While Turkey leaned heavily on a few star players, Germany kept coming in waves. No matter who was on the floor, the energy and intensity never dropped. This allowed them to maintain their blistering pace, wearing Turkey down as the game went on. By the fourth quarter, you could see the difference: Turkey’s legs were heavy, while Germany was still flying up and down the court, moving the ball quickly and finding open looks. Their team chemistry and collective belief turned the tide. Over the final minutes, Germany’s depth overwhelmed Turkey, and that relentless team effort sealed one of the most hard-fought victories in German basketball history.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

It all comes down to culture and leadership. Veterans and coaches have to live those values every single day, setting the tone for all players. Dennis Schröder, as team captain, embodies that role perfectly — he’s the emotional leader and sets the standard with his work ethic and competitiveness. When someone like Tristan da Silva, a young NBA player, joins the squad, he immediately sees that environment and understands that no one is bigger than the team. This clarity makes it easy for new players to buy into the system. The group has created such a positive atmosphere that even established NBA stars describe the national team as a “Klassenfahrt” — a school trip — because they genuinely enjoy spending time together. It’s become a place where everyone wants to be in the summer, which is rare at the international level and a huge reason for Germany’s continued success.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a los in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

Back in the 80s and 90s, people said in football, “Am Ende gewinnen immer die Deutschen” — in the end, Germany always wins. Today, that same winning mentality defines German basketball. Even when Turkey led by six points in the fourth quarter of the EuroBasket 2025 final, there was no panic — just trust and belief. Germany’s strength lies in having so many players who can step up, always putting the team’s success over individual performances. Back-to-back titles have built a calm, relentless confidence that Germany will always find a way to win.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

Down the stretch, the key was Germany’s depth and relentless pace. While Turkey relied heavily on a few stars, Germany kept sending out fresh lineups without losing quality or energy. That constant wave of players allowed them to push the tempo, forcing Turkey to defend at full speed while their own legs started to tire. In the final five minutes, this depth really showed. Germany could switch lineups, keep the defensive intensity high, and still find players ready to make big plays — not for personal glory, but to execute perfectly as a group. The bench wasn’t just a factor — it was the decisive advantage. It allowed Germany to stay aggressive, wear Turkey down, and ultimately close the game with the same speed and precision they had started with. That’s why, when it mattered most, Germany looked fresher and more composed, sealing another historic gold medal.

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

Franz Wagner was invaluable to Germany’s EuroBasket 2025 run. He wasn’t just a scorer — he was the engine that kept the team’s fast-paced style running smoothly. His versatility allowed Germany to play position less basketball at times, switching seamlessly between roles on offense and defense. Compared to 2023, Franz is now a more complete player. Two more years in the NBA gave him sharper decision-making and a deeper understanding of when to take over and when to facilitate. Back in 2023, he was already a rising star, but at EuroBasket 2025 he played like a true leader, reading the game perfectly and elevating his teammates. What makes him special is that his growth hasn’t been just about individual stats — it’s about making Germany’s team game stronger. His improved defense, court vision, and maturity turned him into the ultimate connector, the kind of player who makes everyone around him better while staying completely committed to the group’s success.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

Absolutely. Isaac Bonga has been one of the quiet success stories of German basketball over the last few years. Since returning from the NBA, he’s transformed his game — becoming more confident offensively while still being that versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. At EuroBasket 2025, his impact was huge, even if it didn’t always show up in the box score. He brought defensive stability, length, and energy, and his improved shooting and playmaking gave Germany even more lineup flexibility. He’s exactly the type of glue guy every coach loves — someone who makes winning plays without needing the spotlight. Given how his game has evolved over the past three years, it’s hard to imagine NBA teams not taking notice. A tournament like this proves he can thrive at the highest international level, and with his skill set and size, he definitely deserves another shot in the league — this time as a more mature and complete player.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the level and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Dennis Schröder is one of those players who thrives under pressure. You either love his style or you don’t, but you can’t deny his impact. In the EuroBasket 2025 final, Turkey came in with a clear game plan — they double-teamed him constantly, cutting off his driving lanes and trying to frustrate him. Instead of forcing bad shots, Dennis showed his maturity and leadership. He focused on getting his teammates involved, using the extra attention on him to create open looks for others. This unselfish approach kept Germany’s offense balanced and wore Turkey’s defense down. Then, in the second half, when the game was on the line, he flipped that winner’s switch. With Turkey tiring, he started picking his spots, pushing the pace, and attacking when the moment was right. His ability to read the game, stay patient, and then take over when needed is what separates him from most players. Dennis Schröder has shown over the last few years what an incredible leader he is for Germany. The key isn’t just his talent, but how brilliantly the German coaching staffs has used him. They’ve built a system that maximizes his strengths — his speed, playmaking, and competitive fire — while surrounding him with players who perfectly complement his game. What really stands out is how the entire team has bought in. Every player accepts their role and trusts Dennis as their leader. Whether he’s being double-teamed and creating for others, or taking over in crunch time, the group follows his lead without ego or hesitation. That level of acceptance and togetherness is rare at the international level. It’s why Germany has been able to play as such a unified, unstoppable unit, turning individual talent into collective success — and why they’ve built a golden era for German basketball.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

Dirk Nowitzki will always be a legend, not just in Germany but globally. For more than 15 years, he carried German basketball on his shoulders, inspiring a whole generation and showing that a German player could be a true NBA superstar. His impact went far beyond medals — he changed the game and the perception of German basketball forever. Dennis Schröder’s path is very different. He hasn’t had Dirk’s NBA dominance, but on the international stage, his résumé now speaks for itself: World Champion in 2023 and EuroBasket Champion in 2025, both as the unquestioned leader of the team. So while Dirk remains the GOAT, Dennis has earned a place right beside him in the national team’s history. Dirk was the trailblazer, the icon. Dennis is the floor general who turned Germany’s potential into historic team success. You could say Dirk built the foundation — and Dennis led the group that climbed to the very top of the mountain. They’re different types of legends, but they now share the same elite category in German basketball.

One of the big winners was your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

Alan Ibrahimagic’s rise has been one of the great stories of this tournament. Going from assistant coach to leading Germany to a EuroBasket title is an incredible achievement, but it’s not just about winning — it’s about how he handled everything around him. In a brutal, high-pressure atmosphere, where scrutiny and second-guessing are constant, Alan never made it about himself. He kept everything regarding his own role quiet, shielding the team from outside noise. His selflessness and humility allowed the players to stay locked in on what truly mattered — playing their game and chasing gold. Germany already had the talent and depth to be a championship team, but Alan provided the calm and focus to bring it all together. He managed personalities perfectly, emphasized speed and ball movement, and created an environment where every player felt valued. By filling his role perfectly, without ego or drama, he gave the team exactly what it needed: a steady hand and a clear vision. That approach was crucial, especially when Germany fell behind by 11 points in the final against Turkey. His leadership kept the group composed, and ultimately, it helped turn talent into a historic championship run.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

Oh, there were so many unforgettable moments — Bonga’s dunk that brought the bench to its feet, Franz Wagner’s monster block that completely shifted the momentum — but my favorite play was actually a lot less flashy. It came late in the fourth quarter when Germany was up by just two points. Turkey tried to trap Dennis Schröder near half court, but instead of forcing the action, he calmly swung the ball. Within seconds, it touched four different players’ hands, ending with a wide-open three from the corner. It was the perfect example of Germany’s unselfishness, depth, and speed — five guys moving as one unit, trusting each other completely. That play summed up why Germany won gold. It wasn’t about one hero moment, but about a team working in perfect harmony, making the right basketball play at the most important time.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

It’s a very fair comparison. Spain’s golden era from 2006 to 2011, when they won a World Cup and back-to-back EuroBasket titles, was built on incredible talent, depth, and a shared identity. What Germany has achieved now — World Champion in 2023 and EuroBasket Champion in 2025 — is starting to look a lot like the beginning of a similar dynasty. The ingredients are there: a deep roster with multiple NBA players, incredible chemistry, and a winning culture where everyone buys into their role. What makes Germany especially dangerous is that so many of their key players — like Franz Wagner and Tristan da Silva — are still very young, while experienced leaders like Dennis Schröder and Daniel Theis are setting the tone. To truly match Spain’s run, Germany will need to sustain this level through the 2027 World Cup and EuroBasket 2029. But right now, they’ve created an environment where every summer feels like a “Klassenfahrt” — a place where top players want to come back, compete, and win together. This dynasty should go on.

The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

Germany has laid the foundation for something truly special. Winning the 2023 World Cup and the 2025 EuroBasket has put them at the very top of international basketball, but the real challenge now is staying there consistently. The current core — Franz and Moritz Wagner, Tristan da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga— has proven what it takes to win: a group built on selflessness and unity, where no one plays for individual glory. They’ve created a place where players genuinely want to return each summer. The next wave is coming fast, with young talents like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grünloh, and Christian Anderson ready to join the program. But you can’t predict how these big talents will develop over the next few years. It takes more than skill — injuries, mindset, role acceptance, and team chemistry all have to come together to keep this incredible level of success going. If the core group manages to pass down their winning mentality and the young players embrace the culture, Germany has every chance to remain among the world’s elite. It’s not a dynasty yet, but the pieces are in place — now it’s about sustaining the hunger and making sure the next generation carries the torch forward.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

That’s a very tough question. It’s easy to say that today’s young players aren’t as hungry or as challenged as they were “back in the day,” with so many outside influences and distractions, but I think the situation in Germany is a bit different. Over the last decade, Germany has invested heavily in the entire ecosystem around basketball — not just facilities and gyms, but also coaching, youth development programs, and sports science. Young players are surrounded by an environment that teaches them professionalism early on and gives them the tools to grow, both on and off the court. We’re starting to see the results now. Players coming through the system understand what it takes to compete at the highest level, and they have role models like Dennis Schröder, Franz Wagner, and Isaac Bonga showing them the path. Of course, you can never fully predict how young talent will develop, but these investments have created a culture where the hunger to succeed is nurtured, and the focus stays on the team and the game itself, rather than the distractions around it.

Thanks Florian for the chat.

Josef Dulibic(Berlin Dreams) Sees Germany Competing For Medals For The Next 10 Years

pic credit: FIBA

Josef Dulibic is in his third season as head coach of the NBBL team Berlin Dreams. Prior he was active with Alba Berlin winning the 2018 NBBL title with Franz Wagner and in 2023 won the JBBL title with Mathieu Grujicic. He was 13 years active in the organization as coach with Croatian top team Cibona Zagreb. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Josef for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

I´m very proud of the success of German basketball. Being able to say that Germany is now always a contender is crazy. Basketball is a global sport that has so many countries that have great basketball. Germany has shown that it simply has a high quality of players. One now can always say we are contending for a title. Only some years ago, it would have been crazy to say that.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

It would be less than what the experts would have predicted. I think people generally don´t know really how good basketball is in Germany. But with this Euro win, there are of course more people that now understand how good basketball really is in Germany.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

The Euro title in 1993 was a sensation and surprise. I remember it well. I was only 13 years old and was in Munich. In those days you had a certain amount of countries form the Balkan region that played for medals. Those were boring times with less competition. One can compare the last 2 wins easier. I think that this title was more difficult. There was less pressure with the World Cup 2 years ago. This time the expectations were a lot bigger.

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

The difference was simple in that Germany had more depth. The intensity and physicality in the game was very high. It didn´t help Turkey´s chances that a Osman or Larkin had to play so many minutes. Germany had fresher guys from the bench and more players carrying them. Every German player had a good phase during the game. There simply came more as a team from Germany than Turkey.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

Firstly it really helps when a team has success. This way it is easier to have a cult. It helps that the majority of the guys are close in age. It is never generally good when you have much young and old in a team. The German players were all on the same wave length. All know each other and like each other. That is always a big help.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a loss in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

I really had the feeling when Turkey was up by 6 points that at that point that was it for them. I really didn´t see them having anything more to give. I was writing back and forth with Konstantin Lwowsky during that phase. I felt like we had more reserves and more weapons coming from the bench. I think now you can say that in the end Germany always wins. They are deep and each player has their own identity. The team is simply unpredicatable

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

The biggest change is that he grew into his body. I think he is a stronger player and at the peak of his qualities. His body helps suit the quick game of Germany. The guy is almost 210cm and handles the ball well. Coupled with his athleticism, he can dominate the game. He has a great IQ and made another jump in his game. He is consistent now and has no bad games. He simply plays at a very high level now.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

Bonga plays very well and from what I have heard, there is NBA interest there. Bonga went to the NBA very young and his game has grown since he came back the last 3 years. He has a decent shot now. He is more than a 3 and D player now, but more of a specialist. The question is always is the NBA really a good thing? He showed the last few years that he could play well at the Euroleague level. In the NBA teams often play with a 8-9 rotation. There simply isn´t enough room for all players. Players want to play and not sit on the bench.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroder (185-PG-1993), but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Turkey was well prepared for him. He did a great job in the second half. He got more space and was able to produce with scoring. The problem is that nobody really knows him except his teammates. His teammates in the German national team have always stuck behind him. There is a blind understanding between them. He likes leading the team. The problem in the NBA was that he always played with more known players than him. He has so many more duties in the national team and he likes that.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

The competition is highest at the guard position in the NBA. It is very tough to make it. Juan Carlos Navarro was a top player in Europe and came back after 2 years in the NBA. Anything besides being a role player is difficult. Dennis just isn´t at the level of the top players. He is 1 in many.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

I wouldn´t compare 2 great players. I feel like both had different situations. Back when Dirk was playing, he had to carry the team more than a Schroeder. Dirk had to do it all and made his teammates better. The teams with Dirk also weren´t as good as this one. Dennis is full of great players. He is a clutch player.

One of the big winners is your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

I wasn´t there to see all the dynamics. Alex Mumbru had a plan and that was followed by the team. Alan always said that he didn´t take the role of Mumbru. Alan was on the side lines and had to make the right decisions. Sometimes things can go wrong when the head coach isn´t there. But Alan did everything right. He was calm and cool and never panicked. He did a great job. He let the team play and I never once saw him be nervous. He did his job perfect.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

I loved that difficult lay in by Dennis Schroder in crunch time that he laid in high off the glass. There was so good help and he still made it was incredible. That was such a tough shot to make.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

Yes you could make that comparison. If one followed the youth development in Germany the last years, one could have had a feeling that success would come for the men´s national team, but never to this large extent. One could have thought that success may go away in Spain after the Gasol brothers retired. Now Germany have to continue to be hungry and take advantage of the current success. I feel like Germany could be playing for a medal in the next 10 years.

This dynasty should go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Matthieu Grujicic, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

These are all great players. The question now is can the young players make the next step from youth to men´s basketball? You never know what direction a player will go in in their development. Some guys don´t make it. One good example is Luc Von Slooten. The hype was big, but he only became a solid BBL player. Tristan Da Silva is also a good example. I wouldn´t have expected him to make such big steps after I saw him in the NBBL, but he did. You never really know who will make it. The coaches of the players always see the best case scenario. I think it is important that these young talented players now take that mentality from the men´s team. There has been criticism of the Nil, but I see it as positive for the players. In the BBL it is tough to get minutes, but these guys will get good minutes in the NCAA.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

I really don´t see it so different. Things have changed in the last 20 years. You will have positives and negatives then and now. Now you can take your phone and see Kyrie dribble within 5 seconds. 20 years ago that wouldn´t have been possible. Then you would have had to inspire yourself in other means. Go out and practice shots, but it isn´t different now. The training is great with Alba Berlin. Guys aren´t doing less now. Guys know that everywhere in the world are talented kids training to get better. Players know today just like 20 years ago the more you work hard, the better chance you will have to make it.

Thanks Josef for the chat.