It took some time, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors finally celebrated their first victory over the season smothering Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg last weekend after suffering a 3 game losing streak to begin the season. They finally found a defensive identity and played inspired team basketball. They definitely needed to keep their spark and positive attitude as it didn’t get any easier as FC Bayern Munich 2 came to town. It seems like the farm team is getting younger every year as this season have an average age of only 17 years. It is always an incredible experience seeing which big talents they bring to Frankfurt and this time they had Ivan Khartchenkov who already scored 16 points with 15 years and 5 days last season against top team EPG Baskets Koblenz. FC Bayern Munich 2 began the season off slow losing it’s first 2 games, but came to Frankfurt with a lot of self-confidence having defeated Orange Academy and number 1 team Oberaching last weekend. But their winning ways couldn’t continue as they met a tough and prepared Frankfurt squad as the game was pretty even for long phases, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors took advantage of a tiring Munich squad that was missing 2 key performers with Kalu and Dongmo as Philipp Hadenfeldt (189-PG-1999) put the game out of reach in crunch-time with big baskets and his playmaking was spot on as he dished out 11 assists in the 86-75 victory. It was Frankfurt’s second win in a row putting them at 2-3 while the guests also moved to 2-3. ‘We expected a game like this. Munich played very hard and that is a reason why we couldn’t get away from them. We played against a very physical and aggressive team, but never gave up. Our experience and big shots in crunch-time was the difference’, stated Fraport Skyliner guard Philipp Hadenfeldt. FC Bayern Munich played a solid game, but their 21 turnovers hurt them in different phases of the game, but especially in the fourth quarter as they couldn’t stay with Frankfurt. ‘Congrats to Frankfurt. They played a very good offensive game. We started the game well, but missing 2 key players showed in the fourth quarter as we didn’t have the strength to finish the game’, stated FC Bayern Munich 2 head coach Mihajlo Mitic.

Jordan Samare at the FT line

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were without Alexander Richardson while FC Bayern Munich 2 were without Martin Kalu, Maxwell Dongmo and Alec Agnigbata. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors began the game well going on the rapid 5-2 lead as big men Jordan Samare and Marco Voeller scored. But the guests didn’t waste any time as they got an offensive rhythm going on a 6-0 run to lead 8-5 as 2019 NBBL champions Jeremia Agyepong and beast Mohamed Silla scored as did flashy guard Amar Licina. 16 year old phenom Ivan Khartchenkov wasn’t getting shots, but instead showed his facilitation skills getting a few assists including a pretty shovel pass to Silla. But it didn’t take Khartchenkov long to finally get on the scoreboard as he drilled home a trey for the 13-7 lead. Frankfurt was having it’s ups and downs on offense, but stayed in the game due to Justin Onyejiaka’s athleticism as he scored twice in the paint to trail Munich only 15-13. FC Bayern Munich’s offense was very disciplined and they were sharing the ball well while Frankfurt didn’t have that sound rhythm yet which helped the guests close out the first quarter with a 7-2 run to lead 22-15 after 10 minutes. In the run Munich got added support from Khartchenkov with a jumper, Luxemburg U-20 national player Dan Mantz added a 20 footer and Agyepong a lay in. FC Bayern Munich Shot over 60% from the field and 40% from outside and led the rebound edge 11-5. ‘Munich sparkled with their individual class. Munich hit three’s and got good support from Licina and Skladanowski while Frankfurt’s offense was not up to par’, stated basketball expert Manuel Schust.

Ivan Khartchenkov with the pull up jumper

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors stepped up their offense in the second quarter overpowering the guests with 27 points and heightened their defense using the zone and led 42-38 at the break. Ivan Khartchenkov did start off the second quarter with a trey for the 25-25 advantage, but Frankfurt broke back going on a 6-2 run to trail Munich only 27-24. Frankfurt upped their presence in the zone and did a better job rebounding as Marco Voeller scored twice as did ex Wurzburg forward Nils Leonhardt. On his one bucket, Voeller muscled home 3 offense rebounds and finished with 5 on the night. The three’s weren’t falling so Frankfurt attacked the paint more and were rewarded. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors didn’t let up but continued to play a good zone while getting in passing lanes and forcing turnovers which allowed Frankfurt to get out on transition. This led to a 11-4 Frankfurt run and 35-31 lead. Ex Alba Berlin athletic forward Nolan Adekunle was instrumental in the run scoring 3 baskets while Philipp Hadenfeldt made an acrobatic lay in and Justin Onyejiaka also scored on transition. Frankfurt had done a pretty good job on Silla with the zone, but couldn’t keep up as the Sienna Leon center took charge in the last minutes scoring 3 times in the paint as he was a mis match problem for Frankfurt. But Frankfurt kept the upper hand and led as they got good support from Jordan Samare with 5 points and Alvin Onyia ended the second quarter with a buzzer beater lay in after getting the perfect pass from Hadenfeldt. Both teams shot over 50% from the field and despite Frankfurt rebounding better still trailed FC Bayern Munich 21-19 on the boards. ‘The Frankfurt zone worked well allowing them to play transition as Munich’s game lost pace’, added basketball expert Manuel Schust.

Justin Onyejiaka with the lay in

FC Bayern Munich won the third quarter and retook the lead 61-59. The game remained close as no team continued to be able to get away from the other. The guests got vital support from Montenegro guard Amar Licina who tested his 27% three point shooting percentage scoring back to back three’s while Christian Skladanowski also stepped up with 2 baskets. Frankfurt got baskets from Leonhardt and Samare to keep pace. Hadenfeldt had 11 assists on the night and some more spectacular than the other as he found Leonhardt for the lay in. ‘I saw Nils go to the basket in the corner of my eye. I was near the line and let the ball get away, but somehow saved it and passed it to him. He was the only option and I was lucky no Munich player was there’, commented Philipp Hadenfeldt. The next sweet pass didn’t take long as this time he fed Jordan Samare for the crushing dunk. ‘I saw that the Munich defense came up a bit leaving Jordan all alone. I made the quick pass from behind the three point line which they didn’t react quickly enough’, said Philipp Hadenfeldt. Munich kept the lead with a three pointer from 2019 NBBL champion Luis Wulf, but Frankfurt never gave up and got that instant spark again by Adekunle as he scored a trey and runner and suddenly Frankfurt stole the lead back 53-52. But Frankfurt was unable to keep the lead as FC Bayern Munich continued to execute well on offense and Luis Wulf who has been in the organization since joining the U-10 team scored 5 more points and ex IBAM (NBBBL) player Marco Frank added the needed energy form the bench with 2 baskets. Samare did add a three pointer, but Frankfurt trailed by 2 points after 30 minutes. ‘They did hit more three’s, but we just played our game and stayed with them’, stated Philipp Hadenfeldt. ‘I don’t think that it was their zone that hurt us the most, but it was their aggressiveness which we had no response to’, said Mihajlo Mitic. Both teams shot over 50% from the field, but the guests got stronger again on the boards and had the 33-23 rebound edge while Frankfurt had the 6-13 turnover advantage.

Christian Skladonowski at the FT line

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors went on a scoring spree again in the fourth quarter like they did in the second quarter with 27 points as their defense stepped up while the energy of the guests decreased. The Fraport Skyliners escaped out on a rapid 5-0 run to retake the lead 64-61 as Adekunle dropped another trey and Voeller connected on free throws. But that didn’t faze the guests as they slapped Frankfurt with a 7-0 run to retake the lead 68-64. In the run, they received a Silla lay in and Licina used his Duracell qualities with free throws and a trey. But sometimes one team just takes off and the other just shuts down and that is exactly what happened as Frankfurt went on a brutal 14-2 run to retake the lead 78-70 and decide the game. German Christian Skladanowski was removed and once that happened nothing worked anymore for the guests. He and Silla were rocks in the paint, but with his absence, Frankfurt took advantage as Voeller scored 5 points and Samare made a lay in while Adekunle made free throws for the 73-70 lead. Hadenfeldt then put a lid on the game with consecutive baskets in the paint. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors played with confidence and just took advantage of the guests wanning energy and nonending defensive pressure pushed Munich’s turnovers past 20. Khartchenkov stopped the run with a sweet 20 footer pull up jumper, but Frankfurt wanted more and added a 8-0 run to lead 86-72. In the run Frankfurt got more support from a three pointer from Adekunle and free throws form Onyia and Hadenfeldt. With the game almost over, Ivan Kharchenkov heaved up a last second three pointer from way behind center court making a buzzer beater which sweetened his scoring stats for the game. ‘Nobody thought he could ever make that when he let it go, but once it was up, it looked pretty good. I think that them getting to team fouls early helped us as well as having many offensive options that could score. We played good defense and knew their plays and took away their strengths. It also helped that they were without 2 key players’, said Philipp Hadenfeldt. ‘Skladanowski was out a month and just didn’t have more energy today. They defended aggressively until the end and changed the angles forcing us not to pass well. We had no entry’, stressed Mhajlo Mitic. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Nolan Adekunle with 22 points. Jordan Samare added 19 points while Marco Voeller added 13 points while FC Bayern Munich was led by Ivan Khartchenkov with 16 points while Smar licina had 15 points and Mohamed Silla added 14 points and 12 rebounds. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 49% form the field and 35% form outside and had 32 rebounds and 7 turnovers while FC Bayern Munich shot 53% form the field and 32% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 21 turnovers.

Tags : PHILIPP HADENFELDT, FRAPORT SKYLINERS FRANKFURT JUNIOR TEAM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Not only did Bryce Taylor (195-SG-1986, agency: BeoBasket) have a long and successful 13 year professional playing career that spanned 12 years in Germany and 392 easyCredit BBL games, but he also had something that not all players can boast having had. And that is being able to learn from some of the best coaches in his career. He already had a superb coach with Ernie Kent at Oregon (NCAA) that helped lead the school and Taylor to a Pac-10 title in 2007. And it didn’t change when he went overseas. He was able to learn from legendary coach Svetislav Pesic in Munich who led Germany to the surprising 1993 Euro win over Russia. Soon after he experienced the barking from eccentric Italian coach Andrea Trinchieri in Bamberg and topped off his career learning the finer points of the game from rising Spanish coach Pedro Calles. He didn’t waist any time hanging out at the beach in Malibu for some months in the summer of 2021, but quickly latched on to the Indiana Pacers where he learned from well known coach Rick Carlisle. Now in his second season in the coaching world, he is back in Germany and reunited with Pedro Calles in Oldenburg. The California native has a special connection to Calles in that he first saw him work as an athletic trainer in Artland in 2012 and after that saw his rise in German basketball from Vechta to Hamburg. Playing his last season in Hamburg for Calles left a lasting impression on him. He always knew that Calles was special even already in 2012. Would he have believed then that Calles would become the coach he has become had somebody predicted it in 2012? ‘Yes, I would have. Pedro was always a hard worker, a serious person, very organized and detail oriented. I saw a bright future for him during this time. In our year together in Hamburg, I learned a lot from Pedro. He is one of the main reasons I decided to think about coaching. During the season I battled injuries and he handled my situation with transparency, dignity and respect. We see the game in a similar way and I always loved Spanish basketball, the way the game is played in the ACB and the philosophies that are taught by the best coaches in the country. From a basketball perspective I appreciated our defensive concept and strategy. He is an excellent communicator and was able to impact the team with fresh energy each and every day. He was always organized and prepared and that was something I admired and wanted to take with me when I left Hamburg. I was offered to to stay and work with the Towers last season in some capacity, but I decided to pursue my opportunity with the Pacers instead. This season it will continue to develop as we develop our coaching staff chemistry’, stressed Bryce Taylor.

But one thing will be different in Oldenburg this season for everyone and will need some serious time for adjustment. Bryce Taylor who believes that Steph Curry could be the greatest point guard of all-time won’t see that winner’s smile from Rickey Paulding every morning. Paulding finally retired from the game in 2022 after serving the EWE Baskets for 15 years. It really doesn’t matter who you are, but if you have some connection to basketball in Germany and hear the name EWE Baskets, you won’t be able to hide the fact that the first thing that comes to mind is Rickey Paulding. ‘Absolutely, Rickey Paulding represents so much for this club and the Easycredit BBL as well. Ricky is the standard bearer of greatness when it comes to Americans in European basketball’, said Bryce Taylor. One of my favorite spots around the EWE Baskets arena’s that has really grown in the last decade is the incredible mural dedicated to Paulding. It is something that will remind people daily about the memories of the legendary player who made a name at Missouri (NCAA). ‘It’s really special, I don’t think anybody throughout European basketball, as an American, has a mural like that. We had great battles as opponents, and I will always remember having to be ready to play my A game against him when we matched up. This mural will always take me down memory lane, that is for sure’, added Bryce Taylor. He didn’t have any talks with Rickey Paulding about taking the coaching job in Oldenburg, but surely will have dealings with him this season in some capacity as Paulding will still have ties to the organization and be back in Oldenburg every so often.

The American guard who began his easyCredit BBL career with the Telekom Baskets Bonn comes to Oldenburg with the best qualifications as he was lucky and fortunate enough to have worked in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers in his rookie season after being a player. He was an assistant player development coach which entailed so many different things. He helped with video edits as well as working out the players individually before and after practice. He also aided in pre-game warmups and was always on call for any assignments needed from the coaching staff and video coordinator/director of strategy. He also stayed in shape and showed the young guns why he was a top player in the BBL as he also was a practice player. Nothing was handed to him in this job. He came to the Pacers and it was just like when he was a rookie in Italy in 2008. He was beginning to make a name for himself in life after being a top player overseas. ‘My experience in the NBA was awesome, I was starting over and had to humble myself and that was a great experience. Nobody cared that I played a long career overseas, and I had to prove myself from 0 I worked some G- League practices as well. I learned how high of a level the NBA is, the players are extremely talented and work hard every day. The staff has dozens of people who are the best in the world at what they do. The coaches are extremely smart and were always on point whenever they addressed the team. I learned too much in this year to pinpoint a single thing, but this definitely showed me what I needed to work on so I can continue to improve as a person within this game and as a coach’, expressed Bryce Taylor. He also had the opportunity to work together with head coach Rick Carlisle that as a player was able to call Larry Bird his teammate and later coached legend Dirk Nowitzki. It is only obvious that he took every opportunity he had to be a constant positive pest in terms of questions, questions and questions. ‘Rick was great to learn from and watch every day. He is a great basketball mind and leader. I was a sponge this season being around him daily, seeing how he communicated with the team and the players. He’s been in the NBA for 30 years so he’s basically seen every situation before and I really was just taking notes on everything’, commented Bryce Taylor. When you look up and down a NCAA team’s bench you see players, but also a handful of guys in suits with clipboards at least more than half then what you see on coaches in the easyCredit BBL. The NBA is another dimension of how much organizations value the use of teachers, but then again the budgets are also in another galaxy. ‘The biggest difference was the amount of coaches, we had 10-12 coaches with various responsibilities. There are also 82 games, plus preseason and playoffs, this is a heavy load to carry and its necessary for this to be spread amongst the staff. Our coaching staff had coaches with different focuses, such as player development, offense, defense, analytics and so forth’, stated Bryce Taylor. He was able to work with many great NBA players and remembers 2 guys that he will always have fond memories of spending worthwhile time with. ‘I really enjoyed working with all of the guys, I especially liked working with Chris Duarte because he went to the University of Oregon (my alma mater) so we had that built in connection. But the young core of players is strong there and I think the future is bright in Indiana. Malcolm Brogdon is a true pro and a very hard worker. I loved working with him. We played against each other a lot this season’, remembered Bryce Taylor.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Bryce Taylor in Frankfurt in 2015

The former guard who thinks that Malcolm Brogdon will be a major difference maker for the Boston Celtics this season is already in Oldenburg ready for his new challenge. He was already in Germany in early summer and did a special training in Baden-Baden with the German Basketball Federation DBB and received his B-license for coaching. Sometimes it takes ex professional players a while to make the transition from player to life after, but for Taylor he needed no rest and is just sprouting with zeal about working in the easyCredit BBL on the sidelines. ‘I’m looking forward to everything, collaborating with the coaching staff, learning from Pedro, supporting and teaching the players, getting to know the other staff and fans as well. Jumping into practices on the court and building some sweat equity with the players too’, stressed Bryce Taylor. In pre season there is a lot of time for team bonding. Usually teams will go on a training camp trip and longer road trips are the norm. There will be enough free time for Bryce Taylor to break out some interesting stories from his NBA rookie year last season. He could entertain guards Dewayne Russell, Max DiLeo and Macio Teague with some stories he had dueling Brad Wanamaker back in the day when he was with FC Bayern Munich as well as their 1-1 talks in Indiana last season. He definatley won’t forget being together with Wanamaker last season. ‘ That was awesome to reconnect with Brad, we had a chance to talk on the very first day about our battles with Bamberg vs Bayern Munich. It was funny because nobody else from the staff truly understood what that rivalry meant but we were laughing about these unforgettable moments. We talked a lot about his journey and what it took for him to make it and then stick in the NBA. I believe his versatility is what has allowed for him to carve out a solid NBA career. He is very physical, and makes winning plays as a back up guard. He can defend multiple positions and can put pressure on the defense as a driver and playmaker. Philly guards usually play with a certain toughness and a high basketball IQ and Brad fits that mold’, warned Bryce Taylor. But There is one guy where I think everyone will pay special close attention to when he begins to talk. I’m sure if one night all are hanging out in the lobby of a hotel, nobody will call it an early evening when he unwraps his special stories about Rickey Paulding who he fought 17 times in the easyCredit BBL. That will be a worthwhile entertaining evening that nobody would forget.

Tags : BRYCE TAYLOR, VEOLIA TOWERS HAMBURG, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Macio Teague (193-SG-1997, college: Baylor) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Cincinnati, Ohio who is playing hi second professional season and first overseas in Germany with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Last season as a rookie he played with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 11.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 89.7%. he began his basketball career at Walnut Hills High School averaging 26.4ppg, 7.5rpg; and broke the high school single game scoring record with a 51-point game. He then played at the University Od North Carolina-Ashville from 2016-2018 averaging 15.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 88.6% and 16.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 87.1%. He then played Baylor University (NCAA) from 2019-2021 winning the NCAA title in 2021 averaging 13.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 82.2% and as a senior averaged 15.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 82.7%. He also played nBA Summer League with the Utah Jazz Blue (NBA Summer League in Salt Lake City) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 88.9% and at the MGM Resorts NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) averaging 10.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 71.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a easyCredit BBL game against the Fraport Skyliners.

Foto credit EWE Baskets

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

I’m currently in Germany. Basketball life is treating me well. I’m trying to get 1% better each day.

Your playing your first season overseas in Germany with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What kind of experience has it been playing in the BBL and what have you enjoyed most about playing for the EWE Baskets?

It has been a good experience. I think the best thing about overseas basketball is how the game is very team orientated. I’m really enjoying my time in Oldenburg.

Your averaging the least amount of minutes in your career with 19 currently averaging 7/3/1. What has been the biggest adjustment for you coming from the States to Germany?

The playing style has been the biggest adjustment so far. The game is more physical, is refed differently and the strategies are also different.

How vital has a guy like Max Di Leo been in practice for you getting better suited to the pace? He is a very annoying defender?

Max has been very important for the team success. He is a great player that is doing great things to help the team and me.

Have you met EWE Baskets legend Ricky Paulding? What kind of an impression has he left on you?

I have never met him. He seemed to have been a great player. He has a mural in the down town area which is cool. He seems to be a very prominent figure in Oldenburg.

What has it been working together with Bryce Taylor? He is a guy that played at the high levels overseas and last year was with the Indiana Pacers. What kind of interaction have you had?

I have had great interactions with Bryce. He has a phenomenal basketball mind. He has played at so many high levels and been in the NBA. His insight about the game is tremendous.

How much of a priority is it for you to get a more consistent three pointer? For some reasons your percentages have dropped since North Carolina Ashville.

It isn’t necessarily a priority of mine. I just go out and play and try to become 1% better each day.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder with your game?

I’m working on becoming more vocal and becoming a better leader.

You played your rookie season with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 11.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 89.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie in the NBA/G-League?

I didn’t really have a wake up call. Everything was very different in the G-League. It was just different to what I had been used to.

You had a solid G-League season, but probably not good enough to warrant a NBA call up. What were your highs in the season and how did your game grow from your NCAA senior year?

I think that I grew a lot in my rookie season. Being able to play with different combinations of skilled players and learning different concepts of the game was important.

How excited are you to battle your ex G-League teammate Derrick Alston JR this season? I’m sure it doesn’t surprise you he is leading the BBL in scoring? Do you believe that one of you too could be in the NBA in a few years?

Maybe so but I think he will be in the NBA next season. He is really talented and the typical type of wing the NBA is looking for.

After winning the 2021 NCAA tournament, I would of thought that all 3 Davion Mitchell, Jared Butler and you would get drafted. But your name wasn’t called. How quickly were you able to come to terms with that mentally?

It is the same way that I have to cope with other things. I had a call from the Utah Jazz and was able to play NBA Summer League and was invited to training camp. I just have to keep working

How much of a role model is ex Baylor (NCAA) player Ishmail Wainwright? He began in the second division in Germany and with in a few years was in the NBA. What do you appreciate most about his story?

I appreciated that he played football in school and then went back to basketball. I felt that was really unique. He is a very talented player. He came to Baylor when I was there. I had a few interactions with him. He is a really nice guy. I like him as a person.

You began your basketball career the University of North Carolina-Ashville. You put up very good stats in your 2 years there. Did you want more of a challenge after 2 years? Is that why you left for Baylor?

My coach there left to take a better paying job. I felt like I had the opportunity to transfer to a high major school and Baylor happened to be that school.

I can imagine you will never forget playing against Longwood. You had their number every game.

I don’t remember too much except that I had some really good games against them. I do remember having made 6 three’s at half-time.

You won the 2021 NCAA title with Baylor. How tough and how can one rate the title winning it during Covid? What do you remember being the biggest challenge?

It might have been a challenge but I honestly felt like we had a really good team. I thought it was really hard to lose. We really played defense. Even when we didn’t play particular well, we could still score 70 points. When we played really well, teams had no chance against us.

You scored 35 points against Texas Tech and had a school record 10 three’s. Did you have that incredible after that first made three where you knew it would be a great night?

I made my first 3 in the corner and my second one on the left wing. Then I didn’t take another three for something like 7 minutes. Then I made a deep three from the top of the key. Then I had an airball despite being fouled. I was still 3/3 at half-time. Then I made 2 more and I felt like it could be a good night. Then a graduate student kept yelling use it or lose. From then on I just kept shooting and my teammates kept finding me.

Baylor had an incredible NCAA run beating Gonzaga. What do you feel was the biggest hurdle during the run that the team was able to get by?

We began the run having Hartford under control. We then got by Wisconsin despite it not being pretty. The hardest hurdle was Villanova. We only had 20 points at the half. Coach told us we had to get stops. As soon as we did that we would blow them out. Mitchell was cooking and Harper came alive somewhat. Arkansas played fast like us, but their defense wasn’t as good as ours. We had a blow out in the semi’s and in the final it was lights out against Gonzaga.

In the NCAA final, you had to battle against Jalen Suggs. What do remember you remember from his game?

I remember him being a real good passer who could go downhill when he was aggressive and was a capable three point shooter. He also had the ability to get his team going on transition.

How did head coach Scott Drew groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I remember having an ok practice and our associate coach come up to me and say ‘Are you the best player’? and continued saying ‘The coach and best player can’t ever have bad practices’. ‘Have you ever seen him have a bad day’? ‘As the best player you can’t have a bad day’. That stuck with me. I never saw him have a bad day. He was never grumpy and never allowed anything off the court affect him as a coach on the court. He was a stand up guy.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Davion Mitchell?

It really depended where we played. In the post I would win and on the perimeter he would win.

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

Cade Cunningham

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My Baylor teammates

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

I don’t like to rank players, because it takes away from how much they contribute to the game.

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

I never saw Jordan play. Lebron has impacted the game in so many ways. I can’t answer that.

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

Yes they should of. I took the family DVD of Coming To America on a plane 10 years ago and forgot it. My family is still mad about it and let me know about it every year.

Thanks Macio for the chat.

Tags : MACIO TEAGUE, EWE BASKETS OLDENBURG, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Thomas Alexander (197-SG, college: Arkansas Tech) is a 197cm guard that is playing in Germany with BG Dorsten currently averaging 28,0ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,5apg. He has previous professional experience in countries like Luxemburg and El Salvador. He also played with the Southwest Flight (EBL). He began his basketball career with Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.2% and then moved to Arkansas Tech University (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 70.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during the summer.

Thanks Thomas for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on continuing to grind. You have played in places like El Salvador, Mexico and Luxemburg despite having finished school in 2016. Why has it been difficult for you finding jobs the last 7 years?

I have to say it was difficult, because I had no support behind me to help me, I didn’t have the resources I have today and I would like to shout out those two, Drew Kelso and Thomas Sandlim from One Motive Sports Agency for giving me the opportunity to show my talents in front them to prove I deserve to be a professional.

What has continued to drive you to never lose trust in the basketball process? Or have you lost faith in the process over the years?

I would have to say just having true & genuine love for the game. You can take the player from the game but you can’t take the game from the player. I knew professional basketball is what I wanted, no matter how long it took me, now matter how stressful it would get. The love of the game never left me. There were plenty of days I wanted to just give it all up but I just couldn’t. It didn’t feel like the right thing to do. I’m glad I chose not to give it up.

Your journey continues in Germany with 2 Regionalliga team BG Dorsten. How blessed do you feel being able to continue to play the game you love for a living? Not too many NCAA 2 players go on to have a professional career.

Miles this is a huge blessing, it finally feels like everything is starting to work in my favor. Drew has been able to land me 3 overseas jobs within 10 months, regardless of how long I was there, I was there. Drew made it happen and I’m very grateful for him. I’m extremely blessed to be able to still play this game. I’ve worked very hard to be in this position. I believe a lot of division 2 players are being overlooked, even some division 3 players. We all have the same goals, we’re not any different from those who played Division 1, we just had to take another route.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball? Have you had any friends play here before?

I honestly don’t know much about Germany. I remember my father telling me that my family stayed there before I was born. He’s retired from the US Military, but he was stationed there at a point of time. I actually do have good friends playing in Germany, Spencer Reaves, he plays for the Bayer Giants, also Chris Miller who played in the German Pro B league. I can’t remember the name of the team he played with though.

How did the connection to BG Dorsten come about? I can imagine finding jobs without an agent is always challenging.

I have to give all the credit to Drew Kelso. He made all of this happen. I had no ideal where I would be going next, he just told me to just stay in the gym, be patient, and trust the process.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 197cm guard :If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would have to compare my game to Paul George. A Three way scorer, inside, mid range, and behind the perimeter, nice ball handler for his height, and he can hold just about any position on the floor if needed. I see a lot of comparison in my game when I watch him play

Scoring and rebounding stands out in your game. What other strenghths does your game incorporate?

My other strengths are defending, passing, dribbling, blocking, being quick on my feet, quick to recover on defense, my length, athleticism, and good court vision.

You can defend the positions 2-4. How has your defense matured over the years and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

My man to man defense has become a lot better, becoming more quicker & lighter on my feet has helped me on the defensive side tremendously, of course there is always so much to do to become a better defender, which is a goal for me. I want teams to know me for having good defense.

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


I work on every area the most honestly. When I go to the gym I don’t just work on one aspect of my game. I work on all aspects of it.

You last played in Luxemburg for BC Mess (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) averaging 25.8ppg, 10.2rpg, 1.6apg, 0.6spg, 0.9bpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 82.1%. How vital was this season for you getting your foot in the door in Europe?

I knew if I didn’t play well, I probably wouldn’t have another chance to play in Europe and I couldn’t afford that. There are definitely a lot of areas to play in but Europe is a great place to have a career.

One of your first pro teams was Denver-FAS San Salvador (El Salvador-Liga) averaging 22.0ppg, 9.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 67.6%. How would you compare that league to the semi-pro leagues in the states in skill?

El Salvador honestly had good players out there, it just wasn’t a respectable league, I could see players from El Salvador keeping up with how we play in the states.

You were teammates with Chris Miller who since then has carved out a nice career and recently helped lead his team to the German Pro B. What memories do you have of him?

Chris Miller is a great guy! One of the beat guards I’ve played with. We definitely enjoyed our time over in El Salvador. I remember him scoring 40 points his first game, his mid range game is top tier, that’s what made him stand out, his mid range game. Nowadays, you don’t see too many attempts in the mid range area, the three pointer has taken over the game lol.

You began your professional career in the States with the Southwest Flight (EBL). What memories do you have of your rookie season and what was your wake up call where you knew that you were a pro?

I remember just wanting to be in a better situation, with basketball as far as my career but I was making the most of it. I kept a smile, attended every game, and played my heart out. I want to during the season of the EBL, the middle of the season, everyone started asking me ‘when are you going pro’ or asking me ‘why aren’t you in the pros yet’ that’s when I knew it was time to stop messing around and really try to make something happen for myself with this basketball.

How tough is the competitiveness in the semi-pro leagues in the States. Please give an example where you saw just how fierce it is with all the players?

They’re definitely tough, depending on the League you’re playing in. Our top semi pro league which is ‘The Truth League’ and ‘Dunbar League’ are two very competitive leagues in the state of Arkansas, and that’s just Arkansas, you have the ‘Drew League’ in California that’s well known. All type of NBA players go there and play in that league. LeBron James himself has even played, so that tells you the amount of competitiveness coming into the leagues in the states.

You played at Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.2%. Every guy that I have spoken to that played JUCO raved about how tough the expereicne was, but one they would never not done. How was the expereicne for you?


Being at Eastern Oklahoma taught me valuable lessons in many ways, it had its ups and downs. The experience was definitely one of a kind. I don’t regret going there though, it was a stage in life that helped me see life from a different perspective.

in 2015-2016 you played at Arkansas Tech University (NCAA2): 12 games: 9.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 70.8%. What kind of an experience was this for you? What were the greatest positives that you gained from there?

I loved playing at Arkansas Tech University. I miss all my teammates from there. It was one of the greatest college experiences. I was on a bigger stage than JUCO so I felt I had something to prove. Arkansas Tech brought the best out of me. One of the positives it brought out of me was making me more of a confident player.

How did head coach Chad Kline groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Coach Kline taught me the importance of respect and how far being respectful can take you in life.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marquis Yates?

Definitely Marquis lol .. he was much stronger than me. He was also a great ball handler and shooter, it wasn’t easy taking to take the ball from him or keep him from getting inside the paint for an easy two points. He’s one that should be a professional. He can play some ball.

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

I actually never played anyone in college that made it to the NBA. I don’t know if it counts but I played Bobby Portis (Power Forward for the Milwaukee Bucks) in high school lol.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Imara Ready Junior, Kahron Ross, Kevaughn Allen, Archie Goodwin, Bobby Portis

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

1. Michael Jordan 2. LeBron James 3. Kobe Bryant 4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

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

Why can’t it be two GOATS

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


I don’t think I have actually. I loved the first Coming to America though.

Thanks Thomas for the chat.

Tags : THOMAS ALEXANDER, BG DORSTEN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

How often do I say time flies? I would almost have to say every day. Especially when it pertains to professional basketball players, I am constantly using that term. When you have covered and had dealings with thousands and thousands of players in a 20 year span, names do pop up every now and then, where the saying time has flown by is the only logical thing. A good place for me to relive the good old days is on my Facebook feed. How often do I see some player post something where all you can wonder is where has time gone. It is always fascinating to see what ex players do after their playing days. Just last season ex Oregon (NCAA) great Bryce Taylor worked for the Indiana Pacers while BBL legend Derrick Allen who was a real basketball ballerina in his day has taken on a job with NBA team Washington Wizards. But there are also other examples where one is just amazed where a player’s journey can take them. The other day I saw a post by Dylan Travis (190-G-1993, college: FSC). The name rang a bell pretty quick for me. I remember interviewing him once or twice, it was actually twice. Then I did some research checking out his eurobasket profile and remember he played his rookie season in Germany in 2016-2017 with Cuxhaven. He had a solid Regionalliga season, but none where he could of realistically had chances of having a long career overseas. After 2 more stints in Australia, he was out of basketball overseas in 2019. But he remained busy in the last 3 years and now suddenly he is a big time 3×3 player. He was recently named as a member of the 3×3 USA national team that will battle at the Americup looking for a ticket to the next Olympics. What is even more fascinating is with whom he is teammates with. He is teammates with Canyon Barry the youngest son of NBA legend Rick Barry and sniper Jimmer Fredette who played in the NBA and averaged 37,0ppg in a season in China. He went back home in 2018 and suddenly his life took another path. ‘I went back to school in America and finished my degree. I enjoy working at Westside High School and coaching currently while staying in shape to play on the Pro 3×3 circuit. It is a crazy grind with working out before work and then again at night but I have to in order to keep my body in shape’,stressed Dylan Travis. he American has come a long way going from the German Regionalliga to being a USA national team 3×3 player.

Despite having a total new life now, the guard who listed Lebron, Russel Westbrook, Anthony Davis, and Ricky Rubio on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore in 2017 has fond memories of his days in Germany. His days were limited as he played only 1 full season with Rot-Weiss Cuxhaven (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.9apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 70.5%. The Regionalliga has little glamour, but sometimes it’s the special connection you make with people that makes the experience so much more enriching. ‘Germany is a beautiful country with welcoming people. I will never forget the fans in Cuxhaven, they are still my friends to this day. Winning the league championship and promotion made it a memorable first year’, remembered Dylan Travis. Often after a solid Regionalliga season, guys play another year in that league to up their stats or get fortunate and make the next step up the ranks. For the American who spent time at Midland (NAIA), he was able to reach the Pro B the next season with the ScanPlus Baskets, but that stay was surprisingly brief. ‘I remember hitting a game winning shot vs a Pro A team and getting sent home the next day. But it is a business, I hurt my hamstring before that and was just getting back to full speed. They wanted to bring in an American big so they released me. No hard feelings and it fueled me towards a great two years in Australia’, stressed Dylan Travis. After having ups and downs in Germany, the Omaha, Nebraska native trekked to Australia and played for 2 teams named the Western Port Steelers (Australia-Big V D1) averaging 30.5ppg, 9.3rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 77.3% and with the Waverley Falcons (Australia-NBL1) averaging 20.2ppg, 6.5rpg, 5.5apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 75.6%. He proved in 2 separate leagues that he was a lethal scorer. ‘I finally was able to play my game. I felt comfortable and confident. Coach Luke and Coach Elias let me be the playmaker. Australia is amazing, I really enjoyed living there’, expressed Dylan Travis.

But as was so often the case, Covid came and changed the world. Lives were changed and for so many professional players it wasn’t any different. Many guys stopped playing while others sat out a season and many more had their careers changed in certain ways. ‘Some things happened in my personal life and then COVID shut down the 2020 season so I decided to stop playing overseas and finish my degree in college. Then a 3×3 manager invited me to play in a tournament and the rest is history. I have been doing that since 2020’, said Dylan Travis. Who knows where his career may have evolved to had Covid never reared it’s ugly head into everyone’s lives. Often guys play in Australia and tear up the league and come to Europe and have great careers like former NCAA 2 player Braydon Hobbs and that could have been an option for him. ‘I feel like after my last season in Australia I was on my way to land a good gig in Europe. Then COVID happened. I am blessed that 3×3 has come into my life so I can still travel and play professionally. My fondest moment was winning the league championship in Cuxhaven, that town and fans deserved that championship’, expressed Dylan Travis.

Even if it is difficult to comprehend, Covid in a way was a positive occurrence in his basketball journey. Even if it stopped his overseas run, it opened up a new door for him that he has taken on with open arms. Our team manager, Mike Wranovics moved to Omaha to start a team. He hit me up about playing. Covid prevented me from playing overseas but we were still able to train in Omaha for 3×3. We have a great team and are now just starting to break onto the scene internationally. The deciding factor was I could still travel and make money playing basketball without being gone for most of the year. I have a flexible job that allows me to be gone if I need extra days for international travel’, added Dylan Travis who really appreciates the game of Steph Curry. Obviously 3×3 is a totally different game than 5×5, and one doesn’t just become a 3×3 player overnight. The game isn’t for everyone, but he has found his true basketball calling. ‘I love the physicality and how much the game demands from a player. It is harder than 5v5. You have to be in better shape as there are no stops in play. A player must have good IQ, can play defense, shoot, dribble, and pass. I fit all of these so the game fits me well’, stressed Dylan Travis. One may think that the game is easier because of the half court scenario, but it isn’t. It demands so much out of a player. And it isn’t just about hanging around in the parking lot and letting the ball fly. ‘You need IQ, shooting ability, passing, defense, and physicality. The game goes to 21 by 1’s and 2’s. There is a 12 second shot clock and 10 minute game. It is grueling and takes a lot out of you because of how quick transition is and how much physicality you can get away with’, warned Dylan Travis. He demonstrated that he can be a very good 5×5 player, but he is also able to be lethal playing with less players. Versatility is something that he has always possessed. My game fits both. 3×3 is more fast paced and physical. It is tougher to score, always shooting off balance and on the move. Your cardio has to be in better shape’, stated Dylan Travis. The game is very tactical and knowing exactly how to move in little space is vital. ‘The game has really slowed down for me. We have learned the nuances of the 3×3 game. Knowing how to play Defense, the small slips and screening angles on offense’, said Dylan Travis.

The ex Florida Southern College (NCAA2) guard who believes there is nothing wrong with the Golden State Warriors players trash talking during games and flaunting their 4 rings is set for a massive challenge this week as he battles at the Americup in Miami, Florida. It is a very special time for him. ‘I am very excited to wear USA across my chest and help my country win a gold medal. This is the first step towards the Olympics in 2024. I am grateful for the opportunity to be selected, I am ready to get to training camp in Miami with the guys and coach Fran’,said Dylan Travis. He has overwhelming great company as he will be teammates with walking bucket and former NBA player Jimmer Fredette and NBA legend Rick Barry’s youngest son Canyon. Despite these big time names,he isn’t at all scared for the challenge, but believes 100% in his special basketball abilities. ‘I have put in a good body of work the past two seasons. If COVID didn’t stop my overseas career and I kept with 5v5 I believe I would be playing on a BBL team right now. They both are great players and I am excited to learn from each other. I have been overlooked a lot in my career, but I have always believed in myself and what I bring to the table. I can play on any stage’, warned Dylan Travis who believes a hidden strength in his game is rebounding. He was a senior in high school when Fredette was drafted at #10 in the NBA Draft, knows about the history of the Barry family and also has a fourth teammate in Kareem Maddox who like him had a short overseas career. ‘Jimmer was a national sensation when I was in high school. I definitely studied his game and learned from him. I looked up to him a lot so it is crazy that it has come full circle. I have played against Canyon on tour a couple of times but we don’t really know each other. So I’m excited to get to know all the guys on a personal level once we get to training camp. Chemistry is big. I know Kareem got into the 3×3 game a lot earlier than me and has been a household name in the sport. He has a great game, very versatile as a big. He will bring a wealth of knowledge to us and I am excited to battle with him’, commented Dylan Travis. The do it all type of guard who compares his game to a Nicolas Batum is ready for the challenge and be the player he has always been his whole career. ‘I am going to do what I do. Play hard, rebound, make plays, make shots, do the little things I have done my whole career. Starting or not starting it doesn’t matter in 3×3 because you sub every dead possession’, added Dylan Travis. It is no secret that USA in basketball is always expected to win a Gold Medal. You always have to have self-confidence and can’t feel the pressure. If not you can pack it in. ‘To me it is not pressure I am playing the game I love. I just need to trust my preparation,I am confident the four guys that the USA committee has selected can get the job done. We just need to iron some things out in training camp and build some chemistry’, warned Dylan Travis. It is always nice to hear that people you once had dealings with haven’t lost track of what you do. ‘I have been following your work and I hope all is well with you’, said Dylan Travis as we opened our interview. One thing is for sure, I definitely will be following his basketball work in the future. It isn’t every day that you can say, I interviewed a 3×3 Gold medalist.

Tags : DYLAN TRAVIS, WAVERLEY FALCONS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Elias Desport (203-F-1992, college: St.Peter’s) is a 30 year old 204cm forward from Stockholm, Sweden that is playing his second season with the Norrkoping Dolphins and last season averaged 5.3ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 59.5%. Two seasons ago he played for KFUM Fryshuset Basket (Basketligan) averaging 10.6ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 61.9%. In 2018-2019 he played with the EN Baskets Schwelm (Germany-ProB) averaging 6,3ppg and 4,6rpg. In 2017-2018 he playe with A. Desportiva Sanjoanense (Portugal-Proliga) playing 13 games averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-1 (10.9rpg), 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 43.8%. He began his career with KFUM Blackebergs IK (Basketettan) and also played with Taby Basket (Basketettan). He then lived 4 years in the states playing with St.Peter’s (NCAA) playing 119 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim.

Thanks Elias for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome back to Germany. Has time flown by for you since your Schwelm days in Germany??

Thank you for having me. Time has definitely flown by since I played here back in 2018/2019 and a lot has happened since then.

After playing in England and Germany you are back in your native Sweden playing your third season in your own country. Did your experience in Germany end your trust in playing abroad?

I wouldn’t say that. But it’s safe to say that I’ve had some unfortunate experiences playing overseas. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make my way back to that scene.

In your season in Germany with Schwelm you averaged 6,3ppg and 4,6rpg in only 17 minutes. I had the feeling that you wanted a bigger role with Schwelm?

I wanted and I DESERVED a bigger role playing for that team. But, I guess others didn’t agree with that. It is what it is.

You had worked out so much during the summer of 2018 and not gotten the break out season you wanted. Does an experience like that make the chip on your shoulder even bigger and force you to grind even more?

A lot has happened since my days in Schwelm and I’ve learned to work smarter over time. But I’ve always had to work for everything I’ve got in this life and that will never change. In the past, I would’ve used Schwelm as motivation. But now, I’ve learned to just prove myself right rather than proving others wrong.

In our interview after the season you told me that you weren’t happy with your season, because you couldn’t impact the game in little minutes. What did you learn from this opportunity in Germany?

I learned how grimy this business really is. But, I tried my best to control the things I could control and I stayed professional through it all.

You stated that you grew mentally during your tough season in Schwelm. Has mental health ever been an issue in your career? It is something that many players go through, but don’t like to talk about.

Mental health has been an issue my entire life to be honest. I struggled a lot mentally while in Schwelm because of the circumstances that I had to deal with. I think I grew more the following year when I decided to take a year off from the game and just focus on myself. I believe the stigma around the topic of mental health is slowly starting to disappear.

What kind of player are you in 2022 compared to 2019? How has your game grown in the past 3 years?

Like I mentioned earlier, I think one of the biggest improvements I’ve made is the mental aspect of the game. As far as my game goes, I try to work on my overall game every summer. I’ve always liked the idea of being able to impact the game in many ways. Defense is probably my biggest strength. Passing is my most underrated strength.

After your season in Schwelm, you went home to play for KFUM Fryshuset Basket (Basketligan) averaging 10.6ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 61.9%. Is it fair to say that this was your break out season?

I wouldn’t say breakout season. It was my comeback and resurgence season. That was my first season back from taking a year away from the game.

How vital was this season for your game and mental health. Did you gain trust in the basketball process again?

It was super important. I gained trust in myself again, I wasn’t really worried about the ‘basketball process.’ For the first time in a long time, I was playing with a free mind.

This season your playing your second season with the Norrkoping Dolphins (Sweden-Basketligan) Is there a lot of pressure on the team to repeat?

Personally I don’t give into the pressure of others expectations of this team. The league is competitive this year and a lot can happen from now until May. We just have to take one day at a time and one game at a time. Hopefully, we’ll be playing our best basketball at the right time.

The team is filled with many talented guys especially at your position? Is it difficult to be getting less minutes again?

It’s always difficult when you believe that you can be out there helping your team. But as I said, a lot can happen during a season and I just have to stay ready. I feel like I’ve played well in the minutes I’ve been given.

Is it easier to accept having a special role and maybe playing less minutes again, but then being able to compete for a title?

Ultimately, we want to win. Therefore, we all must accept roles and sacrifice in order to achieve that goal. It’s easier to accept roles when you’re winning. On the other hand, when teams start losing, that’s when players start to complain about minutes, etc.

Your back to averaging 17 minutes per game just like last season. Could it maybe be that your game suited for less minutes where you have to show more of your efficiency something coaches must value in you?

I believe I can play big minutes and still be efficient. As far what coaches value, I don’t know.

What was so special about the title team last season? You won a few really exciting playoff series against BC Lulea and Jamtland. What will you always remember from winning the title?

Our team last year was probably the most special team I’ve been apart of. We were SUPER deep and the chemistry clicked almost instantly. That’s why we had the success we had. Winning the title for me felt so surreal in the moment. Especially considering what I had to deal with in the past.

You were instrumental in the first 2 games against Jamtland scoring 16 and 14 points in 2 close wins not decided by more than 5 points. Was that some of your best basketball you have played in your career?

I believe that was probably the most significant basketball I’ve played in my career because of the stakes. But when I was playing in Fryshuset, I was putting up those numbers regularly.

How excited are you to battle easyCredit BBL team Hakro merlins Crailsheim? I can imagine you are as focused as ever to show basketball Germany and Schwelm that you can compete against them. Will we see a Elias Desport like we have never seen before?

It’s always exciting to play against international competition. They’re a really good team. Also, you get a better understanding of what it takes to play at this level. You’ll definitely be seeing a different Elias from my days in Schwelm.

What is your biggest desire as a professional player now in your career besides winning titles?

Obviously winning is always great. But I’m still striving to play at the highest level possible. Also, seeing the world is nice too.

What is your opinion of Russell Westbrook saying he had a solid game recently despite going 0/11 from the field?

I think people need to leave him alone to be honest. He has never been a shooter. Things are only getting magnified now because he’s on the Lakers and they’re expected to be a winning team.

What is your personal opinion of where Steph Curry ranks now in the best point guards of all-time?

Top 5 for sure.

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

I did not see it. But certain movies should definitely be left alone.

Thanks Elias for the chat.

Tags : ELIAS DESPORT, NORRKOPING DOLPHINS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

foto credit Fraport Skyliners

It was a untypical warm Sunday on October 30th as the Fraport Skyliners met the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. You could have thought it was early May as it was mild and the 2000 BBL cup winner Skyliners were dueling in the playoffs. The sad reality is that the Fraport Skyliners have been as far away from the playoffs in the last few years as the New England Patriots are from winning a Super bowl this season. If one thought it couldn’t get any worse after last season well it has this season. After a 0-3 start, the Fraport Skyliners won their first game of the season in Weissenfels even if it was up to that point their worst performance of the season. But when your winless you will take anything. I have seen many games in the Fraport arena in the last 20 years, but the first half against Braunschweig last Sunday had to have been the worst I had ever seen. 7 points in the first quarter and only 22 at half-time. The shooting percentages were beyond frightful. It was scarier to digest than having Chuckie creep up behind you and try to strangle you. Frankfurt shot a pathetic 15% from the field at 5/33 and an unbelievable 7% from the parking lot at 1/14. You have to wonder what ex Fraport Skyliner and current German national team coach Gordon Herbert must have been thinking when he has to observe shooting like that. But as good hearted as Gordy is, he would just say ‘No worries, they will get out of it’. At the end of 40 minutes the club shot 27% from the field at 21-70 and 19,4% from outside at 6/31. It wasn’t like all were contested shots. They were missing open shots and semi-contested shots. Braunschweig didn’t have a good day either, but if you make 3-4 shots more, basketball life looks a lot different again. The most frightening aspect was that they did a pretty good job creating shots, but the execution rate wasn’t at the BBL level. One also noticed that the team doesn’t have that ruthless, consistent and confident scorer that will take over when ever needed. Currently the team only have 3 guys that could be that guy with JJ Frazier, Martinas Geben and Joshua Obiesie. But they aren’t consistent enough at the moment to be able to be that sure thing in crunch-time when the club needs a big spark. The Fraport Skyliners have to react now before it’s too late. The only logical choice now would be Matt Mobley (192-SG-1994, college: St.Bonaventure) to turn the season around.

It is early evening Tuesday night when I reach Fraport Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson. I tell him about the big BBL news of the day that ratiopharm Ulm had waived ex Fraport Skyliner guard Matt Mobley. Tez as how he is called by everyone tells me that athletic trainer Dennis Welm had told him the news already. Mobley was only averaging 8,8ppg, but was it not a little early to cut a prolific scorer like that who has shown at many different levels that he is a walking bucket. I wasn’t the only one who was surprised about the cutting of Mobley. ‘I was very surprised that Matt was cut. For him to only be averaging 8,8ppg after 5 games is very surprising. He is a 3 level scorer that can go off at anytime’, stressed ex Auburn (NCAA) defensive specialist Quantez Robertson. It isn’t hard not to dream for a guy like Matt Mobley to return to his old stomping ground Frankfurt. ‘It’s only logical that Matt return. It would be awesome if he could return. I’m sure he could help us. With his outside shooting and knock down ability, he would be able to spread the floor and have additional attacking lanes’, commented Quantez Robertson. Everyone sees him as that incredible offensive player that will decide games anytime, but Tez actually appreciates another part of his game most. ‘He did so much on offense and when he was doubled teamed could facilitate, but what I appreciated most about his game was how much of an underrated defender he is. Of course he would get beat at times just like anyone else, but he had a knack of stepping up big when we needed it and be able to make big plays’, warned Quantez Robertson.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Matt Mobley in the Fraport arena in 2021

Mobley is in his fifth professional season and has been a lethal scorer wherever he has played. In his last 2 years of NCAA ball at St Bonaventure, he played a total of 63 games and scored in double figures in 51 games and twice hit 9 three’s against Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University. His scoring rampage continued at the pro level as he was the third best scorer in the Euromillions league in Belgium with Proximus Spirou Charleroi and the next season was the second top scorer in Turkey with Sigortam.net ITU Basket Istanbul. Last season he made the jump to the best team league ACB in Spain and suited up with Casademont Zaragoza averaging 10.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 48.2%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 85.2%. He proved he could hold his own against the best in Europe. In his third season he came to Frankfurt and under head coach Sebastian Gleim had absolute freedom to just play his game. He was the second best scorer in the easyCredit BBL averaging (20.0ppg), 4.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 87.8%. He had many massive games hitting BG Goettingen for 30 and 29 points in wins, scored 31 points in a win against Braunschweig, 29 points in a victory over Chemnitz and 30 points over Vechta just to name a few. Even if Tez was a busy bee on the court, he was able to enjoy every game with Matt Mobley. ‘He had so many 28-30 point games. I just loved the way he could shoot the ball and make those long range three’s at any moment. He was always that spark that could give us 2-3 three’s to get us going’, remembered Quantez Robertson. The American who loves to play point guard and could have reached the NBA in his prime only on his defensive qualities has played with many gifted scorers in his 14 year career and ranks Matt up near the top. ‘He is definitely top 5. No you know what, he is #4. I have him behind Dashaun Wood, Jordan Theodore and Philipp Scrubb’, smiled Quantez Robertson. So how realistic would it be to get Matt Mobley right now? Unrealistic If you look at the clubs budget, but then again his market value might be a bit down because of the scoring stats that he had in Ulm. But in the situation that the Fraport Skyliners are in now where their offense isn’t BBL credible, you must go into your savings and sacrifice if you want to save the season. Could Matt Mobley be that savior? ‘That is tough to say. The season just started. That would be unfair to say after only 5 games’, stated Quantez Robertson. He may not be the savior, but the club would be a lot stronger with him. The turnaround has to come now. The team needs Matt Mobley.

Christopher Miller (192-G-1993, college: Salem) is a 29 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York who is playing his eighth professional season and first with GoldCoast Wallabies NLB (2nd League). He played 3 seasons with the Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) and last season averaged 17.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 17.5%, FT: 78.6%. This season for Bensheim he averaged 19,5ppg, 3,8rpg, 2,0apg and 1,5spg. He has had experience in countries like El Salvador and Bosnia. He recently played for the South Shore Monarchs (TBL) playing 8 games averaging 22.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at Clinton Community College and also played two years at Salem University (NCAA2). This season he teams up with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber with weekly chats about his basketball season.

You had told me that you would play your last game against Saarlouis, but didn’t. Was there a reason why you didn’t?

The process of my license in Switzerland has already begun so I can be available there asap.

How disappointing was it not to battle MR Regionalliga and legend Ricky Easterling? He had another super game with 21 points, but couldn’t help his team on this night.

I was looking forward to the matchup against Ricky since the beginning of the season but we both know the situation we will have to settle this battle next summer.

What duel against Easterling will you always remember?

Maybe the first one of course . It was my first time playing against the person I have been compared to for years. It was a tough battle in Saarlouis and it came down to me hitting the game winner.

Bensheim played a great game beating Saarlouis 95-69. How proud are you of your teammates?

I am very proud of my teammates. Even though I couldn’t play I still came to show support. Everyone stepped up and came out with crazy energy and it was what seemed to be the perfect day for them.

Is it almost fair to say that they didn’t need you? 5 guys scored in double figures.

I guess today you can say that. These guys are very talented and I have always said if it’s put together they can be scary. In this game it seemed like everyone was clicking and all the shots were falling.

You have decided to leave Bensheim and play in Switzerland for second division team GoldCoast Wallabies NLB (2nd League). How did it come to this?

I’m blessed to be noticed after playing a couple games in Bensheim. They gave me a call and offered me a chance to play in a higher division.

Is it fair to say that you will get a pay raise there?

I think it’s safe to say I can support my coffee habits.

How excited are you for this opportunity to live on the Zurich lake? The team needs help is only 2-3 in the standings.

I am very excited to be living on the coast of Zurich lake. I really haven’t experienced much myself but I hear it is a beautiful place. I can’t wait to check it out. I think the team is very talented and I believe things will turn around for the wWllabies.

What memories will you always have with Bensheim? What did you enjoy most there?

Bensheim will always be home for me. They gave me my first contract and treated me like family. I respect them as a club because most clubs would try to hold you back in a situation like this but they understood this was a greater opportunity and they allowed me to leave the club. They are great people and really know how to run an organization while making you feel important.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Tags : CHRISTOPHER MILLER, VFL BENSHEIM, GERMAN BASKETBALL

How often did John Murry (192-G-1995, college: Austin Peay) think about being able to make more money and playing in a higher league in the last 3 years? It must have been countless. Thoughts and thoughts. 1000 or 10,000 who knows. Not really any different then as many free throws Steph Curry has practiced in the last years. All those nights after he had given his all and put up allstar stats scoring 30-40 points and still losing games. How difficult must it have been to endure all these annoying mind games that he was playing with in Germany? John Murry is a hell of a player, but honestly when you’re a talented guard overseas, you can look left and right and see just as many talented guys. It just isn’t always easy to find the right situation where organization and money cater to the expectations of the player. After finishing at Austin Peay (NCAA) where he averaged 16,7ppg, he set on a professional career, but instead of going the usual route of playing somewhere in the vicinity of 80-100 games, all he had on his resume after 4 years was 11 games. Injuries, business decisions and Covid all made basketball life for the Indianapolis native very unbearable. Things finally turned around in 2021-2022 as he played a full season and rocked the German Regionalliga with the NEW Elephants Grevenbroich being the second best scorer in the league averaging 28.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 4.6apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 82.2% and picking up Eurobasket.com All-German Regionalliga South East North Player of the Year -2022 and Eurobasket.com All-German Regionalliga South East North First Team. Things then really looked up for him as the Basketball God finally noticed him and he was rewarded with a contract with German pro A team Art Giants Duesseldorf moving up 2 leagues to the second. He finally got a pay raise and was playing at a high level. But this didn’t last as the club decided to release him, because it was simply a numbers game something that often is seen in the basketball world. He never gave up and took a step back and signed with Regionalliga team Hamm Stars in order to rack up great stats and search for that next opportunity. The basketball God didn’t hibernate on him, but was lurking in the shadow and hooked him up again. His nonstop love, dedication and grind has rewarded him with that next opportunity in Morocco where he will earn even better money than in Duesseldorf.

After his short stint in the Pro A with the Art Giants Duesseldorf, the American guard who believes despite a good start by the Boston Celtics into the season, they will never get by the Golden State Warriors signed with the Hamm Stars. The team began with a bang beating Munster and Leverkusen, but then suffered a 3 game losing streak to Hagen, Essen and BG TVO / Jahn. A big problem was keeping points off the board as they allowed 97 points per game. Rebounding has also been a problem for Hamm as in their loss against BG TVO / Jahn were outrebounded 46-36 and watched them scrape 13 offensive boards. The American and other guard Mateo Zovko are 1 and 3 in rebounding and it’s apparent that the club needs an additional big man. ‘That could be the case or just us coming to together more as a unit to box our man out and not watch as the shot goes up. That’s mainly the key to rebounding, it’s just a job of who wants the ball more’, stressed John Murry. One of the great things to observe in the German Regionalliga are the guard battles on a nightly basis. It is usually the American guards that are the best players on the floor. In this game Murry tangled with Shawn Scott who flirted with a triple double just missing having 36/10/8 stats. He is another guy like Murry that must have a massive chip on his shoulder as he played in the NAIA before turning professional. Murry wasn’t to shabby himself equalizing his career high from last season against Hamm with 42 points. It isn’t hard to understand that battling tough and real talent pushes a guy to even greater heights. ‘It’s always good to see someone else be able to battle with you and hold their own. That game definitely brought the best out of me, it was a tough call at the end for me but we live to fight another game. The crowd was a key factor for them in that game also, very loud and into the game, I loved that environment’, remembered John Murry. But at the end of the daythese dudes are having fun at the same time. ‘I love it, I absolutely love it, I’m the type to feed off the energy of the crowd in away games and use it to motivate my focus and performance level. Also, guys who can play at a high level makes the game fun while we battle’, commented Joun Murry.

The explosive guard who hopes Rusell Westbrook is ok mentally after his 0/11 performance recently from the field and hopes he can perform at the level again that we have seen in his career came back after the loss to Scott and co and helped Hamm defeat Koln DTV 93-86 to snap their losing streak. ‘It was big for us to get this win especially coming into a week of playing one of the better teams in the league. This will definitely give us momentum moving forward. It definitely gives us positive hope and we are excited yet focused on the journey ahead of us’, expressed John Murry. He had another great game in the victory with 36 points shooting over 70% from the field and 62% from the parking lot while hauling down 11 boards and dishing out 5 dimes. He nailed a huge three to send the game into overtime in which Hamm then sealed the game in the extra time. ‘It felt good, one of the biggest shots I’ve hit in the clutch when we really needed a 3. I just try to stay focused and give it all I got and let God take care of the rest’, warned John Murry. In 6 games with Hamm, he averaged 27.8ppg, 8,7rpg, 3,0apg and 2,0spg while shooting 42,9% from outside. A stat that really has stood out has been his rebounding as he has never averaged that much before in his career. The most had been 5,6rpg in the 2014-2015 seasons at Owens Community College. ‘I really wanted to challenge myself defensively upon returning back to reg 1 to be a playmaker on both ends of the floor. Everyone knows I can score but I want to bring the same energy on the defensive end to make it a complete game’, said John Murry. One thing that stays the same no matter where you play is taking care of the ball. In 6 games with Hamm he was coughing up the ball at 4 times a game something he will continue to work on on cutting down. ‘Maybe that’s just it, maintaining possession of the ball more and value the possession to get us a good shot in the end when the shot clock is running down’, stated John Murry. Even if his stay in Hamm was short, he will never forget that head coach Ivan Rosic was instrumental in him being able to play his game and keep his name out there while putting up impressive stats when no one else did in this time. ‘Coach Ivan is a great person and even better coach. He has been coaching for a long time and his words of advice are gold. He has helped me in more ways then one and I will always value our friendship’, stressed John Murry. Now he embarks on a new chapter in his career in Morocco. Recently the easyCredit BBL saw some not so positive vibes in Weissenfels as American Lamont Jones staged his own battle with the team fans during a game against the Fraport Skyliners on the floor directing the F word towards them in many cases as well as giving them the finger. This is definitely something that isn’t seen very often, but it does happen. ‘As a overseas pro, I understand from all angles, frustration and positive vibes. I also understand how to carry yourself in a professional manner certain things can, and cannot happen, just hate to see unfortunate events like that. You see it from all angles and you just hope from the outside looking in that whatever that person is going through on the inside there able to deal with’, warned John Murry. It is no secret that fan behavior is better in some places and worse in other places. Even if Murry should experience some hostile fan interaction in his new basketball home, I’m sure that he will be professional enough to ignore it. This guy has overcome so much adversary in the last years, that he will play his game as usual and shine. He is playing the game he loves and finally earning better money. Basketball life is finally really good and something he has been grinding years to attain.

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Tags : JOHN MURRY, ART GIANTS DUESSELDORF, GERMAN BASKETBALL

After 2 brutal loses on the last play, three would be a charm for the Fraport Skyliners as they finally pulled out their first victory of the season on the road in Weissenfels last weekend. They didn’t play their best basketball and are still far from it, but getting that first win was extremely vital for their mental health as they welcomed the next opponent with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. Despite Braunschweig being 0-4, like the Fraport Skyliners are a better team than their record shows. They also had some tough close losses and were close in many games. This was a must win for the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig as they weren’t just in quick sand, but already sinking deeper and deeper. The Fraport Skyliners were sprouting with self-confidence and wanted to keep their winning streak alive, but witnessed a day where they couldn’t hit the side of the barn as they heaved up enough bricks that could have lasted for a new American style Fire House across the street form the Fraport arena. Frankfurt had a must win situation against Braunschweig as they came with only 2 imports as they had injury woes, but they even managed to be in the game on the last possession, but in the end it was failed execution something that plagued them all day long. ‘We didn’t play a good game. We played good defense allowing only 30 point at the break. We were second guessing too much and weren’t aggressive enough on offense. We were worrying too much about missing shots than winning. We have to play with confidence. There were 3-4 minutes in the game where we allowed 6-7 offensive rebounds. We lost this game today in spurts’, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard JJ Frazier. The Basketball Lowen didn’t play a great game either as their shooting percentages were almost as bad as Frankfurt, but in the last minute they were able to stick together and make a huge play and sink free throws. ‘This was an ugly win. We played great defense. Anytime you allow 59 points in professional basketball, you will have good chances to win. We didn’t execute well on offense, but we got good support from our German players. These guys will become great players as their careers progress’, warned Basketball Lowen Braunschweig guard Braydon Hobbs.

JJ Frazier at the FT line

If the first few minutes were any indication on how the Fraport Skyliners were going to play, I would have predicted a plus 10 win as they led 5-0 quickly With 3 Frazier free throws and a Lorenz Brenneke lay in, but then as if the day suddenly turned dark, the Fraport Skyliners just stopped playing with that high energy they started with. Then the guests went on a seemingly unexplainable 15-0 run as the Fraport Skyliners machine just shut down and watched. Braunschweig got 1 three pointer from Luc Von Slooten, but other than that attacked the rim with authority and were rewarded. Talented Angolian player Jilson Bango scored twice in the paint while Kramer used his quickness and athleticism to score as did ex Bamberg guard Nicolas Tischler. The Skyliners communication on defense was lax in this Braunschweig onslaught and 1-1 defense non existent. The Frankfurt offense did a good job creating shots, but their execution was just horrible. They attacked the paint but were blocked an unacceptable 6 times in the first quarter. It also didn’t help Frankfurt’s cause that they missed open shot after open shot. Frankfurt went more than 5 minutes without a bucket until Joshua Obiesie scored with 3.06 to play. Ex FC Bayern Munich forward Robin Amaize made an incredible reverse lay up as the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig led 17-7 after 10 minutes. Frankfurt shot a pathetic 2/20 from the field while Braunschweig was at 50%. ‘We came out a bit lack luster, but we then got stops on our big run and got out on transition and got easy baskets’, said ex Giessen guard Braydon Hobbs. ‘We just missed shots during their 15-0 run. It was nothing more. It was a shame we couldn’t execute, because we created good shots’, stated JJ Frazier.

David Kramer with the jumper

In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners were able to up their game a bit mainly thanks to the vital spark that Quantez Robertson gave the team. Before Robertson entered Braydon Hobbs nailed a deep three giving Braunschweig the 20-9 lead. This season must be like a nightmare for Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson whose minutes have been shaved in half something he never witnessed in his first 13 seasons. But instead of moping around, the guy stays a true professional and just comes on the floor and does his job. He was aggressive getting to the line twice and also made 2 steals helping Frankfurt get into rhythm. Frankfurt upped their intensity on defense and only allowed a lay in by Kramer and a three by Amaize giving the guests the 30-13 advantage. Frankfurt closed out the second quarter strong with a 9-0 run as Robertson dropped a huge trey and Obiesie scored on a jumper as Von Slooten was in his face to cut the guests lead down to 30-18. Frankfurt also got support from Brenneke who scored in the paint and Obiesie made free throws as Frankfurt trailed only 30-22. ‘Tez is always in the right spot. He knows the game so well and has been in the BBL for a long time. We know that when he is on the court, he will bring us positive energy’, expressed JJ Frazier. ‘Tez got them going with 7 points in 3 minutes. He still has his motor and when his team needs him he steps up. He changed the game’, commented Braydon Hobbs. The Fraport Skyliners continued to shoot miserably at 15% from the field and 1/14 from outside. Braunschweig had solid stat with 42% shooting form the field.

Martinas Geben with the hook shot

The Fraport Skyliners played their best quarter in the third scoring 19 points and cutting the lead down to 40 -38 at one point Both teams found an offensive rhythm quickly as Frankfurt got baskets from Frazier and Lithuanian sniper Laurynas Beliauskas while Braunschwieg got key support from Germans Brandon Tischler and David Kramer (198-SG-1997). After having a first half to forget, ex Bamberg big Martinas Geben finally got on the board after going 0/5 from the field, but Frankfurt still trailed 34-29. Braunschweig could keep a little more ground as Braunschweig guards Kramer and Hobbs scored, but Frankfurt was in comeback mode. Geben had caught fire scoring twice while Frazier also was on hitting a trey and other Lithuanian big Einaras Tubutis made an offensive rebound and put back and suddenly Frankfurt was in striking range trailing only 40-38. But Frankfurt was unable to keep the momentum as Braunschweig closed out the third quarter with a 6-1 run to lead 46-41 after 30 minutes. Bango continued to be a monster in the paint with 2 tip in dunks while Von Slooten made a lay in. The Fraport Skyliners shot better landing at 25% from the field, but still had a horrible three point percentage at 9% with 2/23. Frankfurt had more offensive rebounds and 6 turnovers less, but that didn’t give them the lead. ‘Frankfurt picked up their offense and their physical defense changed the game. But this season the third quarter has been our worst quarter. We have to improve on that’, warned Braydon Hobbs. ‘Confidence played a big role in this quarter for us. We didn’t second guess and just played our game’, stressed JJ Frazier.

Robin Amaize at the FT line

The Basketball Lowen Braunschweig upped their game in the fourth quarter and were more than ready to slam the door shut on the Fraport Skyliners, but Frankfurt didn’t give up, but made one last comeback. Frankfurt came out flat to begin the fourth quarter allowing back to back offensive rebounds and put backs from Jilson Bango as Braunschwieg led 50-41. The athletic African finished the game with a double double of 13/10 and continues to make strides in his game. ‘He is getting better each week and everything is new to him. Coach speaks Spanish with him. He just does his job cleaning off the offensive rebounds and scoring in the paint’, said Braydon Hobbs. Offensive rebounds hurt Frankfurt a lot in the fourth quarter that gave the guests added extra chances that they capitalized on. Braunschweig continued to execute very well getting into the paint as Kramer scored twice. Frankfurt got some key buckets from Geben and Frazier, but the guests still led comfortably 58-45 with crunch-time approaching. But the Fraport Skyliners now began a come back that got them very close. They finally hit three’s as Geben and Lukas Wank scored back to back to trail only 58-51. Frankfurt played their best defense in this phase forcing back to back turnovers which led to a Frazier catch and pop trey from the corner and a Tubutis lay in as Geben supplied the perfect shovel pass as suddenly Frankfurt trailed only 58-56 with 1.01 to play. ‘I’m starting to find my rhythm. I felt great in this game’, said JJ Frazier. After a Frazier miss, Kramer made 2 free throws and the win seemed sealed, but Frazier connected on a pretty trey form the corner as Frankfurt trailed 60-59 with 5,9 seconds to go. Kramer then made 1 of 2 free throws to lead 61-59. But Frankfurt couldn’t capitalize on the last shot as Frazier missed on the drive with contact as no foul was called. ‘We wanted to force a call. They played honest. I drove to the rim and didn’t get the call and missed. You have to live with it’, stressed JJ Frazier. The Basketball Lowen Braunschweig were led by David Kramer with 17 points while Jilson Bango added 13 points while the Fraport Skyliners were led by JJ Frazier with 17 points while Martinas Geben scored 12 points. The Basketball Lowen Braunschwieg shot 38% from the field and 13%from outside and had 46 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 29% from the field and 19% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 1 2 turnovers.

Tags : DAVID KRAMER, BASKETBALL LOEWEN BRAUNSCHWEIG, GERMAN BASKETBALL