Almost 7 months ago Terrell Harris (191-G-1993, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Players Group) was in the beginning stage of playing his second full season in the German BBL and first with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim and after 40 minutes against ratiopharm Ulm, the Merlins had lost by 22 points and started with a brutal 1-4 record. In the game he had 8 points. Almost 7 months later, he was fighting for the last BBL playoff spot and on the road in Ulm. He lost again against ratiopharm Ulm, this time only by 10 points, but the big difference this time was that he was the best player on the floor having posted 24/6/7 stats and held his own against ex NBA players Sindarius Thornwell, Semaj Christon and Jaron Blossomgame. The ex NCAA 2 player who worked his way up from the Pro B to the easyCredit BBL and has always had a chip on his shoulder wasn’t even in awe playing against guys like that. It’s no secret that the world is filled with exceptional talent and that there aren’t enough spots on NBA rosters. Already last year he had shown time in and time out again that he can battle against any ex NBA player and hold his own. He knows he has nothing to prove anymore. ‘I wouldn’t say that game was a proving point, I always felt like I belonged here. It would’ve meant more if we would’ve won that game. I can hold my own against anybody I wasn’t worried about that. No disrespect to their players, all of them are good players in their own way’, said Terrell Harris. He just wants to win and in the last game he faced his ex team Niners Chemnitz and won an incredible nailbiter 95-93, but he and the Merlins didn’t have fate in their own hands. They were praying for a Hamburg win over Bamberg to give them the last playoff spot, but in the end, the basketball God gave Bamberg the last ticket. But at least he beat his old team of whom he has the utmost respect for. ‘This one hurts more because it leaves a big what if, fully healthy I saw us beat 6/8 playoffs teams very comfortably. I feel like we would’ve been there at the end but who knows what would’ve happened. I for sure learned a lot from this season. I wish I can get back the last possessions of the MBC, Ludwigsburg, and Ulm game. I knew it would be a tough game for whoever we played at home so it didn’t matter if it was Chemnitz or whoever. Chemnitz is a good team and organization. Coach Rod played a pivotal role into the player I am now, I can never have ill feelings towards Chemnitz’, warned Terrell Harris. He missed the playoffs for the second consecutive season and understands that one can’t control certain issues. ‘ It was by far the most unluckiest season I ever been part of, but injuries and health issues are a part of the game. We still had opportunities to create our own destiny and we didn’t execute’, stressed Terrell Harris. His sixth professional season proved one to be of many highs and little lows and one where he had to reinvent his game in the second half of the season and heighten it after TJ Shorts got injured.

The days after the season ended haven’t been easy for the Florida native who believes that 20 year old German Aleska Kovacevic made the biggest strides in the pool of the young players on the team and knows instead of getting some extra sunrays in Germany in May, he could of been getting locked in for a tough series against Alba Berlin in the playoffs. One thing that will be tormenting the organization this summer will be the what if question of the TJ Shorts injury. Where would the team have landed at the end of the regular season and in the playoffs had the diminutive guard not gone down in Leiden, Holland. ‘Yes of course but everyone else had injuries as well. It sucks but is part of the game. I will also dissect what I could’ve done better as well personally then move on. Still feel like I could’ve got us to the 8th seed without TJ and through the Covid situation’, remembered Terrell Harris. The club played a superb Fiba Europe Cup season reaching the Quarterfinals and bowing out against a tough Leiden team and also reached the German cup top 4. But in the eyes of the American not reaching the playoffs doesn’t classify as a total successful season. ‘We didn’t make the playoffs, so I don’t look at the BBL season as a success’, warned Terrell Harris.

The ex Rostock guard who feels that the Golden State Warriors will win the 2022 NBA title believes that there wasn’t just one crucial loss in the season. Losing To Oldenburg, Ludwigsburg or MBC wasn’t more crucial than the other. ‘All the losses were crucial including both to Frankfurt. I can’t really say this one outweighed the other one. We should’ve taken care of business late in those games. You can’t change the past so I will learn and move forward’, commented Terrell Harris. Everything was rolling along for the Merlins in March 2022 as they were prepared to take the momentum from the BBL cup top 4 in Berlin, but then came a shock as TJ Shorts went down in Leiden. The club was hit hard and all of a sudden had to be successful without their MVP candidate. The club never gave up and regrouped and just continued to fight. Without Shorts the team was 5-8 and came so close to reaching the playoffs. ‘I mean he probably would’ve won MVP if he didn’t get hurt. Any team losing a MVP candidate will struggle to adjust. We ran a lot of our offense through him with the system we had. It worked for the most part until he got hurt then we had to readjust roles. Unfortunately we dropped literally one too many. I think the team learned TJ had a great supporting cast behind him as well. Jaren Lewis and I stepped up huge for us along with the others’, expressed Terrell Harris. Last season I witnessed ex Davidson (NCAA) sniper Jon Axel Gudmundsson have some massive scoring games with the Fraport Skyliners where he showed what scoring in bunches meant. This season he couldn’t find his role in Italy and came to Crailsheim in mid season. In Frankfurt he averaged 12,2ppg in 28,7 minutes and with Crailsheim only 5,9ppg in 14,7 minutes. Why wasn’t this guy used more especially when the team needed scoring support? ‘Last year the Frankfurt the team wasn’t as talented nor deep as the team we had here. He came midseason and the adjustment period was kind of tough since we were already rolling. You have to ask Sebastian why he didn’t play more, I don’t make the subs’, added Terrell Harris. The whole club had to step up with out TJ Shorts and one of those was Jaron Lewis who like Harris never got any gifts in his basketball life and had to battle to the BBL from the Pro A. ‘Jaren is my guy, very reliable and can do it all. His game is smooth and underrated. He’s a quiet and humble guy as well but he gets the job done every night. He’s for sure underrated and overlooked like myself. The things we do for teams can easily be taken for granted and overlooked because of our personality and most of it can’t be measured. Teams are not successful if you don’t have guys like Fabi, Mo, and Jaren’, warned Terrell Harris.

The versatile guard who names talented BG Goettingen guard Kamar Baldwin as the toughest player he faced this season played in two competitions for the first time in his career. In the Fiba Europe Cup he averaged 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 77.1%. Being able to play against advanced competition was vital in his further development as a player. ‘Fiba Eurocup was a fun competition. You had to bring it every game especially since the top 2 advance. I think I for sure I held my own in Fiba Eurocup. Of course I could’ve shot the three ball better but overall I think I held my own’, remembered Terell Harris. He scored in double figures in 10 of 13 Fiba Europe Cup games including nailing Antwerp and Leiden for 18 points apiece. In the easyCredit BBL he averaged 13.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 75.5%. One can say that he had two parts to his season before and after TJ Shorts went down. ‘I struggled at first it was a huge adjustment coming off the bench and playing the one entering the game then switching over to the two once TJ came back into the game. We ran a lot plays for TJ, therefore at the wing spot I had to spot up a lot. If I made shots from the corner three I had good games. If I didn’t then it showed in the stats. For sure it wasn’t my ideal situation, but we won so I had to put my pride aside for the team. Once TJ went down, I was our next best playmaker. For us to have any chance I had to make plays along with Jaren and I think I showed what I knew I was capable of. I was able to play my game shoot, drive, and keep others involved’, said Terrell Harris. He scored in double figures in 24 of 32 games including 24 points against MBC and 21 points against Chemnitz. His season changed when TJ Shorts went down. Suddenly he had to reinvent his game and suddenly basically continue to do what he did before, but now with even more efficiency, consistency and success. He heightened his game averaging 16,7ppg, 3,2rpg, 4,0apg and shot 48% from the field and 37% from outside and 55% from the two point area. It was a challenge that he loved to accept. ‘TJ is a special player so missing him was crucial. He created a lot of the offense for everyone so without him being able to play, someone had to pick up the slack. Teams were coming at us hard as they should’ve but I think we put up a fight for the most part. I knew what I was capable of so stepping up wasn’t too big of an adjustment for me. I wanted the pressure to lead this team in the playoffs with everything that was going on. It was a challenge but fun one’, commented Terrell Harris.

In the last 8 games as the playoff stress continued to rise and the pressure rose, he was able to step his game up a few more levers averaging 19,0ppg, 3,5rpg, and 4,7apg and shot 53% from the two point range and 41% from downtown. You never wish an injury for a player, but so often an injury can be that next opportunity for a player. The most famous example is when Drew Bledsoe went down in 2001 and then an unproven Tom Brady stepped in and the rest is history. In a way the injury to TJ Shorts was like a blessing in disguise for Harris’s game even if he doesn’t want to admit it. ‘I don’t look at his injury as a blessing in disguise because he got hurt very bad. I wish we can have that play in Leiden back. I started to find myself before he was injured. Either way I was going to have a big second half because I made the adjustments over break that I needed to make for the second half’, stressed Terrell Harris. At the end of the day, this season was an important one for Harris as he had to react quickly to the injury to Shorts and the whole experience before and after the injury helped him continue to mature as a player. ‘We ran a lot of the offense through TJ and it worked well, I had to play a role to support him and the team. We had no time for personal feelings or etc. I accepted it and adjusted my game. It brought the leadership out of me. I would say it helped me add the spot up shooting to my game for sure. I was comfortably taking more threes than I ever have in my career. Once he went down for us my role changed where I had to be extremely aggressive to have a chance. I had to take over the one and playmake from the two. I was able to use my speed and get out on fast breaks, get down hill, get to pull-ups, and still hit spot up threes’, stressed Terrell Harris. A big strength in his game is his outside shooting and that it dipped from 48% to 36% doesn’t worry him at all. ‘I broke my pinky on my shooting hand vs Hamburg. I had to adjust the last 10 games and my percentage dipped. I’m not worried at all I will be back to 40% next year’, warned Terrell Harris. An attribute that he has to why he has been so consistent in his career is that he has never been satisfied with his game. When you have a chip on your shoulder, you always want to get better. It will be another summer where he invests a lot of time to continue to craft his skill in the lab as there will be so many things to work on. ‘I have a lot more to go. I feel great mentally and physically. So many years left in me I hope. the love of the game and motivation is still there. I have a lot to prove I feel. This year I battled a lot of things. I’m highly motivated to prove myself right. I know what I’m capable of and what I need to work on to get to that top level’, stressed Terrell Harris. Not only will he be focused in the gym, but also in making his next step. He could play in so many other countries, but why not remain in Germany where he has played most of his career? I honestly could see him strap on the Alba Berlin jersey, but perhaps that step is a one season too early and an opportunity the Euroleague team won’t risk yet. But clubs like Oldenburg, Hamburg or Ludwigsburg should give him an offer. ‘This business is tricky as we all know. I have to sit down and analyze everything. I’m at that age now where these next few years are going to be crucial especially my next move. So we will see, right now I just need to decompress and heal up’, stressed Terrell Harris. He has made a big new step every season since turning pro in 2016 with Iserlohn. I’m sure it won’t be any different when he begins the 2022-2023 season with his new team.

Tookie Brown (180-PG-1995, college: Georgia South) is a 26 year old 180cm point guard from Madison Georgia that just completed his third professional season in Germany averaging 11.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.1%. He played his first two professional seasons with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Euromillions League) averaging 11.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.7% and with King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) averaging 12.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT-2 (52.8%), FT: 77.1%. he began his basketball career with Morgan Country High School and then played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 averaging 17,0ppg in his four years. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his career.

Thanks Tookie for talking to germanhoops.com. You completed your third professional season and first in Germany with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig after having played in Belgium and Poland. What kind of an experience was it playing in the easyCredit BBL? Would you agree it was a step up in talent and skill level from the previous two leagues?

Yes I think the BBL is the best league that I have played in so far. The skill set of the players is high and there are many versatile players. It is a tough league to play in.

You were injured this season with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. How tough was this season for you?

This was the first time that I had an injury. I didn’t know the process. I felt that I could shake it off in my mind and play, but my body told me to shut down.

Braunschweig had it’s best stretch in December and January winning 6 of 9 games. The club didn’t have a big budget. What are you most proud of with this team?

We always competed and fought hard. We had ups and downs, but always stayed together. We were a young team and I really enjoyed playing with them.

What kind of an experience was it playing with Spanish head coach Jesus Ramirez. What do you believe was his most vital coaching strength that also helped you mature further with your game?

Coach always believed in me since I played for him in Poland. He always told me in Poland that he would take me along. He always gave me confidence and pushed me. You don’t find many Spanish coaches like him that have confidence in a player. I would not be the player I am now without him.

What kind of an experience was it playing with David Kramer who has G-League experience. Was his NBA dream still being talked about this season?

Dave is that type of NBA player. He can really score and always wants to win. I wish him the best in his career.

What was it like playing with the Tischler brothers. What did you appreciate most about them and what is still missing for their complete break through?

They are some dogs. It was great being around them. They really love the game and are always in the gym working to become better. Their defense is there. I think that they have to hit the three more consistently and get more confidence. But that will come with experience. They could become good three and D players. Sky is the limit. They are my boys.

You’re a 180cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description.

I think Isaiah Thomas is the best example. A scorer with a chip on his shoulder like me. I feel like I always have something to prove.

Would it be fair to say that you’re a scoring point guard. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

Yes but I feel like I can also get my team involved as well. I also feel like I’m a good on ball defender. I learned to pick up full court. It is fun to play defense and compete.

Your stats have been quite similar in your first three pro seasons. How do you feel did your game grow this season?

I thought I played well in Germany. I felt like I could of played better, but I still feel like my game grew here. My confidence and shooting grew. I got even more comfortable as a player in the BBL. The league also taught me on what I need to keep working on to get better.

How would you classify the development of your three pointer? You shot 47% one season in the NCAA and last season 52% in Poland. Why is it so up and down?

I think that my confidence is lacking sometimes. Coach always gave me the confidence to shoot. I sometimes take dumb shots. I have to read the game better.

Last season you played with King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) playing 15 games averaging 12.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT-2 (52.8%), FT: 77.1%. What memories do you have of the playoff series against Legia last season? You averaged 16,0ppg in the 4 game series that you lost. Why couldn’t you get over the hump?

I think that Legia wanted it more than we did. We just didn’t have enough pieces to win the series. Jamel Morris who played with MBC was on that team and was hard to stop. Plus they had multiple shooters. We lost one game on free throws. Losing that series was tough.

You had all kinds of characters on your team last season. Starting with polish legend and ex NBA player Maciej Lampe, ex UCONN and NBA player Rodney Purvis and Michael Fakaude guy that began in Germany in the third division in 2012. I’m sure you won’t forget these guys.

Those were all great guys and I learned a lot from them. It was great watching Rodney and seeing his work ethic. I asked him so much advice. Michael is an amazing player. Michael’s game is different. He is so energetic and strong. He was hard to stop and just an amazing player.

As a rookie you played with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Euromillions League) averaging 11.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call where you knew that you were very far away from home?

There was a lot of things to get used to.The practices overseas were different and the game was more physical. It was a real learning experience. Plus also getting used to different time zones. It took me a few weeks. It took me until this season to figure everything out like the rules of the game.

You played at the 2019 Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) averaging 13.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.7apg, 1.0spg. What kind of experience was that? Do you remember balling against guys that would reach the NBA?

There were a handful of guys then that are in the NBA right now. It was a great experience seeing so many NBA scouts and hearing feed back as well. I didn’t want to mess up and just stay locked in the whole time.

The NBA is every players dream. Would you play in the NBA Summer League if you had the opportunity? How difficult is it to get a gig like that? I guess you need the right connections.

It’s all about the right connections. It is all about who you know. It is a dream of mine to play in the NBA Summer League. In this generation all you need is one opportunity to show what you have.

You played at Georgia Southern (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing 128 games. You had incredible consistent stats averaging 17,0ppg in your four years. Was this time your best time in your life?

Yes it was college. I was playing the game that I love for people who wanted to see me play. I will always remember the records I broke. College was very memorable for me.

Do you remember hearing any stories about Julius Jenkins who went on to become a Euroleague player in Germany?

Yes I do. He actually came to talk to us when I was there and tell us about his overseas experience. My coach always said great things about him. He is a great guy to look up to.

You had so many memorable games starting in your freshman year beating Appalachian State exploding for 34 points. Where do you rank that game in your NCAA career?

That game is top 5, but my best memory was playing against Duke as a freshman. Playing on TV for the first time and seeing coach K was memorable.

You held your own against Duke scoring 20 points. Brandon Ingram had a great games scoring 26 points. Did you know there that he could have such a decorated NBA career?

I was nervous walking into the arena. Remembering watching Duke on TV and then seeing coach K and Brandon Ingram was an incredible experience. Not many guys can say that they played against Duke and coach K. I knew that he would go to NBA. When you see Brandon he is actually taller than you think. He has the skill set of a point guard. It was crazy.

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

He did a great job. He always pushed me and was aggressive with me. He always told me that I will do well if I always work hard. He gave me confidence and always told me to stay who I am and not change for anybody. He took my game to a new level.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Quan Jackson?

It was on and off with us. He was a defensive guy. He was like top 5 in steals in the country. He was also a great offensive player. I wish him the best.

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

Dennis Smith. I had known him from high school where we played against each other and also did in the NCAA.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

David Kramer, Montae Glenn, Joe Rodgers, Ike Smith and the Tischler brothers Brandon and Nicholas.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, Jordan, Shaq, Kobe, Magic

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

I take Lebron. Jordan was a killer scorer and had a killer instinct. But Lebron is a pass first kind of guy and you would never think he could go for 27-30 points.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

The Bucks over the Suns.

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

I didn’t see it, but they still should of left it alone.

Thanks Tookie for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-1994, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball.

PS Karlsruhe’s season has ended in Rostock. What were your first thoughts when the buzzer sounded ending the game?

It was a thought of many feelings but I wanted to congratulate Rostock on a good series, & wish them luck and the best of health going forward.

I can imagine that the long bus ride home wasn’t enjoyable for you. What thought was occupying most?

10hr bus rides are tough regardless & after losing a game/series makes it more tough, but just spent some time reflecting and resting for the most part.

The first half was exciting and PS Karlsruhe had the slim 40-36 advantage. Were you content how the PS Karlsruhe game plan had gone for the first 20 minutes?

We were in the game, it was back and forth, we liked our chances but they made more plays than us down the stretch.

The third quarter was a real defensive battle. Ps Karlsruhe had the slim 55-50 lead. You played the best quarter of defense in the game. What was key for keeping them in check very well?


Just focusing on not allowing them to get open looks and trying to make it as difficult as possible for them.

Just like in game three a big run would break you back. PS Karlsruhe allowed a brutal 19-3 run to begin the fourth quarter that decided the game. How do you explain something like that? Was it keen Rostock adjustments or just plain bad play by PS Karlsruhe?

We wanted to prevent that because we know the game is based off runs, but they hit us in the mouth to start and we needed to respond.

Rostock did a good job not allowing you over the hump. Did fatigue play a role?


Many things played a role but credit to them they had a really good game-plan.

They rebounded well again, but also nailed 16 three pointers. It also seemed like they had many weapons even when guys like Gloger and Loesing had off nights?

They have a complete team with many guys that can produce.

You had 11/2/2/1 stats. How much will you remember this game knowing having scored 25 points would of probably got you the win?


Maybe so, but it’s all charged to experience and I will be better from this.

When you look back at this series what do you believe cost PS Karlsruhe this series most?

Each game presented different challenges and hurdles, but I know we could’ve took much better care of the basketball, that would’ve helped us.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Marco Voeller and Philipp Hadenfeld moonlighting as coaches!!!

It was May 6 and usually around this time, Pro B playdown teams have already been on summer vacation for weeks, but on account of Covid cases, the season was prolonged as the last game day of the Playdown schedule games were still to be played. The Pro B North playdowns had a real exciting do or die game in Bernau as young team Dragons Rhondorf were battling to remain in the Pro B and needed a win badly. While more than 500 kilometers away in Frankfurt, there was another Pro B playdown game, but it was meaningless as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors and Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos had already had been saved and were playing for pride. For fans seeing a warrior like Johanes Lischka is always worth it while on the Frankfurt side seeing all the young bucks one more time in the season was also a delight. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors controlled the first half, but got weaker in the second half allowing the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos to gain confidence and a better rhythm and getting the come from behind 84-82 win. After the loss Skyliner Junior guard Matthew Meredith seemed perplexed as of how they gave away the game. ‘We had a good first half, but the second half was back and forth. They came back got the lead and then we would get the lead again until they got it at the end and won. Positive today was putting our big men Samare and Richardson into good position to score off the mismatches’, stressed Matthew Meredith. It was one of those games where Giessen could go into summer vacation with a big smile on their faces. ‘We came out slow giving up 31 points. But we improved our defense allowing only 19 points in the second quarter. We continued to pick up our game from there. We knew it would be a super hard fought game. I’m super proud of the guys. This is the best group of young Germans that I have had as teammates in Germany. They played hard and wanted to be good’, stressed Giessen guard Montrael Scott.

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors showed their total offensive arsenal in the first quarter jumping all over the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos leading 15-4 after only a few minutes. Frankfurt did a super job getting their bigs Jordan Samare and Alexander Richardson involved as they combined for 8 points while ex Nurnberg guard Matthew Meredith supplied 5 points and ex Ehingen forward Nils Leonhardt had a lay in. The way Frankfurt was playing in the first few minutes was as if they were on a leisurely Sunday stroll in the park. The ball movement was great, their transition game was working and on defense, they were anticipating well and getting into passing lanes forcing turnovers. Giessen couldn’t muster any real offense as they were playing with many young Germans and a few extra NBBL (U-19) players except for ex German national player Johannes Lischka who got two buckets using his massive strength to his advantage. Frankfurt kept on the pressure on offense and continued to get good execution from their bench. Three and D player Risto Vasiljevic hit a trey and little used athletic wing player Isaac Obanor scored twice inside including a beautiful lay in from the corner by getting by two players and then making a fancy reverse lay up. ‘We always see him making shots like that in practice. He especially likes to do it with his left hand’, stated Matthew Meredith. Giessen executed better on offense, but couldn’t keep pace with Frankfurt because of Frankfurt’s great start. Giessen got two baskets from young German Tristan Goebel, but still trailed 31-19 after 10 minutes. Frankfurt was shooting hot at 72% from the field and 60% from outside while Giessen was doing everything inside being at 52% from the field. Frankfurt also had the rebound and turnover advantage. ‘Everything worked for us. We hit shots and were in rhythm. We really wanted to win’, said Matthew Meredith.

In the second quarter Giessen was able to find better to their game limiting Frankfurt to less points and also having a better execution rate on offense. German Tim Schneider began with a three pointer, but Frankfurt came roaring back going on a 7-2 run to up their lead to 38-24. Frankfurt continued to look for Alex Richardson who was a brute against the young Giesen big guys making a transition lay in and offensive rebound and put back, while Samare showed again why he is a modern big man hitting a trey. Lischka came back scoring two baskets in a row while Frankfurt got further production inside by Samare and Richardson with lay ins as Frankfurt led 42-30. Frankfurt was displaying fine team basketball as everyone got their touches and also got easy baskets. But Giessen stayed on Frankfurt’s door step keeping pace and cutting down their lead a bit before the break. They got two key baskets from scoring machine Montrael Scott who played the last two seasons in Schwelm and two baskets from NBBL player Finn Doentgens. Frankfurt was able to keep the 50-42 advantage at the break with points from Richardson and Meredith. Both teams had problems from outside shooting a combined 6/25, but from the field were better than 50%. Frankfurt had the slight 17-16 rebound edge. ‘We kept executing pretty well on offense, but lost some intensity on defense allowing more easy baskets’, expressed Matthew Meredith.

In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors lost more focus and allowed the guests to shortly take their first lead only to lose it again. Frankfurt began well getting a trey form Vasiljevic, but then prompt gave up a Giessen 7-0 run to lead 55-49. In the run, Giessen continued to get clutch game from Johannes Lischka who scored twice as well as a three pointer from German Sebastian Brach (190-G-2002). Frankfurt wanted to get away again and got a mini 5-0 run to lead 58-49 as Alvin Onyia tested his 24% three point percentage scoring and Leonhardt made a pretty back door cut and scored off the Meredith pass. Frankfurt’s defense just wasn’t there anymore as they couldn’t get a double figure lead anymore. Frankfurt then allowed a bitter 12-0 run as some open three’s from Brach and Scott as well as a lay in from 19 year old 216cm center Philipp Keile and free throws from Scott and Schnieder gave Giessen their first lead of the contest 61-60. But Frankfurt rebounded well from their lapse on defense closing out the third quarter with a 8-2 run to regain the lead 69-62. When Frankfurt wants to, they can be a real menace on offense. They have the weapons and used them as Samare nailed another three pointer, Meredith hit a jumper, Obanor a reverse lay up and Richardson a dunk off a perfect lob pass from Meredith. ‘We lost rhythm. Lischka does a good job playing on contact. He really has a good touch. You can try to take some of his moves for your own game’, added Matthew Meredith. ‘It was our last game and we just continued fighting’, said Montrael Scott. Both teams shot over 50% from the field and over 30% from outside while Giessen had taken control of the boards 25-22 and had the 7 to 3 offensive rebound edge.

Montrael Scott at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the lead, but couldn’t put away Giessen properly, but instead allowed them to hang around and bite them in the butt in crunch time. Giessen just continued to chip away at the Frankfurt lead and began with an annoying 8-3 run to trail only 72-70. Lischka was aggressive scoring 6 points with 4 on free throws. Giessen also got a lay in from David Amaize. Frankfurt then got a lay in from Alexander Richardson for the 74-70 advantage. Frankfurt kept the lead briefly Meredith proved he could take responsibility and executed scoring twice giving Frankfurt the 79-74 lead with two minutes to go. It was the last game of the season and Giessen head coach Patrick Unger was bold and sat Lischka and Scott and allowed the kids to take control. And how they did as they put on a show for Lischka and Scott closing out the game in OMG style scoring 10 unanswered points to win the game as Frankfurt scored no more points. Sebastian Brach was the hero scoring 7 points. He began with a lay in which was followed by a vital trey from Tim Schneider to dead lock the game at 79-79. A Meredith miss led to a three by Brach for the 82-79 lead. Brach then followed with an aggressive drive from the baseline and bucket for the 84-79 lead to decide the game. Richardson followed with an and one lay in at the buzzer, but it was too little too late. ‘It was fun to watch the young guys play well. They really showed that they wanted to win. I always told them to play hard and have fun’, warned Montrael Scott. ‘We lost rhythm and our desire at the end. We weren’t disciplined on defense giving up three’s and a lay up’, stated Matthew Meredith. The Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos were led by Johanes Lischka with 20 points while Sebastian Brach and Montrael Scott added 15 points apiece. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Alexander Richardson with 24 points while Matthew Meredith added 18 points and Jordan Samare 14 points. Giessen shot 48% form the field and 28% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 49% from the field and 26% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Jaleen Smith (193-PG-1994, college: UNH) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Freeport, Texas that is playing his fifth professional season and first with Alba Berlin. He played the last two seasons with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg averaging 15.2ppg, 5.0rpg, Assists-3 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (1.8spg), FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 87.5%; and 10.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 82,8% the season before. In 2018-2019 he played with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) averaging 12,7ppg, 3,9rpg and 2,7apg. In his rookie season with New Hampshire (NCAA) from 2013-2017 where he played a total of 120 NCAA games. He improved his scoring, rebounding and assists average each season and as a senior he played 32 games averaging 15.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 78.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the crushing 109-80 win over Giessen.

Thanks Jaleen for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the win over the Giessen 46ers. How weird is it still playing while other teams are already on summer vacation or playoff teams waiting for the playoffs to start?

Seeing other teams play was kind of hard to watch because you can see the players are ready to be home but they have to finish the season. I understand especially when you don’t have any playoff hopes left in any of the games.

There will be teams like Hamburg, Bonn and Bamberg that will have a two week rest while Alba Berlin and FC Bayern Munich will be playing right up to the start of the playoffs? An advantage or disadvantage for Alba Berlin?

I think it’s an advantage because we will be sharp playing right into the playoffs as for other teams are going to be rusty getting back into games.

How important is it to face teams like Giessen and Braunschweig before you have the real test against FC Bayern Munich right before the playoffs start? How key will added self-confidence be for the team going into the playoffs?


Building up our self confidence is going to be huge going into playoffs because having everyone feeling good and ready for the games is going to be key to us making a run in playoffs.

Alba Berlin played it’s typical fine offensive game scoring 61 points in the first half, but also gave up 43 points against Giessen. Isn’t that too much against a poor team like that?


We took Giessen for granted because 2 of their best players weren’t with them and they came out and showed character and gave us a fight in the first quarter.

Giessen Germans scored the first 13 Giessen points. German talent Bjarne Kraushaar had 10 points. Was he a little off your radar this time?

Having the best players out it caused him to step up and he hurt us in the first quarter. He got an opportunity and took advantage of the chance.

How good did it feel hitting back to back three’s in the second quarter. You have been shooting the three ball pretty well as of late.

These are shots I’ve been working on during and after practice. I’m just glad I’m hitting my stride at the right time.

You were leading by 25 points after three quarters. Were you surprised that their depleted roster that was without key players Kendale Mccullum and Nuni Omot still had so much energy?

They came out in the first and second half making everything and playing with a lot of confidence which is dangerous with any team.

You didn’t play once against Kendale Mccullum this season who had a decent personal season despite playing for Giessen. He is also a guy that made it to the top from the Pro A. Does sometimes not having that duel weigh more than against a top player?

I would’ve love to match up with him. I have heard nothing but good things about him and he does little bit of everything for his team. He is the next great guard that is a product of the Pro A division.

Even though the team allowed 80 points you still forced 22 turnovers. Was this one of those games where you experimented with certain defensive schemes?

We stuck to what we always do nothing changed with our defense. We just wasn’t focused to give up 80 points to this team.

We have talked about Oscar Da Silva in the past. How vital is his character intelligence for his development. This guy could easily be a starter on any team, but sometimes plays only 14 minutes, but continues to be so efficient. Can a younger guy like this be a role model even for a veteran like you?

His development alone is crazy to see. He’s always working on his game and even now with the minutes he plays he’s contributing.

Oscar Da Silva had another inspiring game with 16 points and 5 boards in 18 minutes. Would you inspire him to play NBA Summer League again?

I would because his projection as a player is going to the NBA. On how long that would take is all about opportunity and he deserves a chance.

Alba Berlin also allowed young German point guard Nils Machowski to play his second BBL game. He will be dueling in the German U-19 final 4 in 3 weeks. How talented is he?

He is a very talented guard from what I’ve heard. I haven’t seen him play too much to talk about him but him coming into the game and being aggressive as he was on offense shows how much confidence he has in his game.

One guy we haven’t talked about ever is German Jonas Mattisseck. He had his best scoring game with 19 points. Is he a guy that has continued to be able to develop his basketball IQ playing in the Alba Berlin system?

The thing now for Jonas is his confidence I seen him do stuff in practice that is like ‘wow I didn’t know he could do that’ I feel like the more confidence he has in his self and his game the sky is the limit for him.

You had a very solid game with 16/4/7/4 stats in 24 minutes. Was this game also one of those opportunities that allows you to experiment with your game?


I’m just still trying to get better as the season comes to an end and get ready for the playoffs coming up.

What is the team’s biggest goal to do in the last two games besides win the games in preparation for the playoffs?

First our goal is to be healthy going into the playoffs with no injuries. Second to having everyone feeling good and confident before the playoffs start so everyone is having that ‘feel good’ feeling.

Do you believe that FC Bayern Munich’s loss against FC Barcelona will make them more hungry? What do you believe was missing from them reaching the Final 4?


I think it’s tough to win in Barcelona against a really good team like that. I think Barcelona made a lot more plays to win the game and in those games that is what it comes down to. They will be more hungry to win the BBL Championship for sure. We just have to be ready for what’s ahead.

Since playing NBA Summer League for the Phoenix Suns, have you become a fan of the team? How hungry are they to win the NBA title this season?

I think Chris Paul wants this championship more this year just tasting the Finals for him wasn’t enough. HE WANTS A CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!

Do the Memphis Grizzlies have any chance against the Golden State Warriors? Can one single guy like Ja Morant carry a team past Steph and Co?

I think it will be tough now especially since they are going to be on the road. The Warriors are a tough team to beat at home in the playoffs.

How do you see the east shaping up? Can Boston get by Milwaukee and how far will Miami go?


Right now it looks like Miami and Milwaukee will meet in the Conference final again. I have Miami going to the Finals again and getting past Milwaukee.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Star Wars: The Revenge of The Sith.

Thanks Jaleen for the chat

Tags : JALEEN SMITH, AL

Elias Valtonen (200-SF-1999, college: Arizona St., agency: Blacktop Management) is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Finland that is playing his first season in Spain with Baxi Manresa (ACB Spain) currently averaging 7.1ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 72.4% in the ACB. Last season he played in Germany with the Tigers Tuebingen and averaged 15.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 61.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 80.2%. He played with Arizona State University (NCAA) playing 38 games from 2019-2021. He began his basketball career with UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki (Korisliiga). He then played He then played 3 seasons and 71 games for HBA-Marsky Helsinki (1st Division) and in his last season played 31 games averaging: 14.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 74.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the Basketball Champions League Final 4 game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.

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

Currently I am in Manresa and preparing for this weekends Final Four in Bilbao. Basketball life is treating me very well

Your playing your first season in Spain in the ACB with BAXI Manresa. How much is it like night and day the difference between the German Pro A and ACB?

I think the difference is big like it should be as well. I think the biggest difference is playing styles. Like in Germany Pro A it was more physical, almost felt like wrestling some days, here in Spain the game is more fast paced and tactical, which for me makes it one of the best domestic leagues in Europe.

Manresa is playing an incredible season in the ACB. What has been the secret to the success? It seems like even though the team allows many points, they often are able to score even more points consistently.

There is not one ‘secret’. I think its just our playing style in where all the players have bought into since the beginning. We are a well coached team where we have established very clear roles and work hard every day.

The team only have two Americans and many guys from other countries. How key has the many nationalities been for the success of the team?

For us it doesn’t matter where people comes from as long as we all play for each other. And we do. We have great chemistry in the locker room.

You have much experience and have seen much in your early basketball life, but still I doubt nothing tops beating FC Barcelona and Real Madrid in a season. How quickly were you able to understand what the team had done?

Yeah I am not going to lie that those wins were very big for me and this whole club. But during the season we have understood that playing our game we have chance to do it.

What memories will you always have from the exciting 96-95 win over FC Barcelona? What were you thinking being in the starting 5 and getting ready for the jump ball?

I didn’t have much in my mind. I just prepared like in every other game. In Finland we have a saying that ‘everybody eats same porridge’ so I just kept saying that to myself and tried to challenge the opponent the best way I could.

You had a super 14/7 game in the big win over Real Madrid. What kind of an experience was it being aware of defensive stopper Walter Tavares in the paint area?

Playing against guys like him is an honor and I just try to take advantage of those opportunities. Luckily the game started to go well for us and we kept playing without extra pressure.

What kind of experience has it been being teammates with American Luke Maye? He was at North Carolina and you at Arizona State. Have you guys shared some NCAA stories?

Its been awesome experience. He is such a cool dude and I love hanging out with him also outside of the basketball court. We do talk a lot about college ball and life in the States in general as well. So I think that’s something what connects us.

Your averaging 7/2 stats in 22 minutes in the ACB. What was the biggest adjustment for you coming from the German Pro A?

I think it’s been the pace of the game. Also decision making in different situations

Your continuing to shoot the ball really well from outside. You stated once you need to be more consistent in order to reach the next level. How have you seen the development of your shot this season playing against stiffer competition and the best players in the world?

You are right and I still have to keep having focus on that. I have done it fairly well in the ACB but Champions League I could have been better behind the arc. Overall I think I am going to the right direction as a shooter

Your biggest strength is your versatility. How have you been able to use this asset best in the ACB especially on your team where you have so many talented players?

I think so. I try to help the team in different aspects. Sometimes being a threat on offense, playing solid defense or doing those things is what we need in different games.

You once said this about your defense. ‘I take pride on my mach-ups. Basketball is a game of small matches and I feel like if you win those small battles more you have good chance to win. I think when I am active on defense I can force people to take tough shots and get steals’. How have you seen your defense progress in the ACB? What has been the biggest challenge coming from the Pro A?

I have developed as a defender here as well. For example positioning, pick and roll defense etc. Here players are more skilled to draw fouls on you and sometimes in Pro A officials didn’t whistle hand checks or body fouls that easy.

How excited are you to be playing at the 2022 Euro championships? Finland beat Slovenia recently that had strong players for the game. What can we await from Finland at the tournament?

Yeah we showed that our younger generation can play in that level and now it’s just time to compete there again and do those same things in the European Championships. We have good combo of more experienced and younger player

Finland has a lot of experience, but how is the state of the younger generation? What young player should we keep an eye on?

Miro Little is one of those players who got playing time in the last window with the National Team already at very young age. I think he has a bright future and I am looking forward to play with him again

You have the opportunity to win the Basketball Champions League this weekend. First you have to get by the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Tuebingen isn’t to far away from Tuebingen. Were you able to visit games last season?

Yeah I had the chance to play against them once last year in preseason as we played a friendly match in Ludwigsburg.

What is your impression of the MHP Riesen? They have a real fox as coach with John Patrick, Have a loaded roster and play very aggressive defense for 40 minutes. What will be key to advancing to the final?

You said it. Its about that. They have an aggressive and physical playing style and we have to be ready to answer to that. But it’s about small things like always and playing the basketball we have played all season.

How proud are you of your ex team Tigers Tuebingen? They have been the big surprise of the season. Head coach Danny Jansson has formed an incredible team with great chemistry. What caught your eye most last season concerning his coaching abilities?

I have been following them actually quite a lot this year and I am very happy for the whole team and how they are doing. Danny has just kept going with his project we started last year and the results are already showing. He has continued to develop young players very well.

Ryan Mikesell only played 2 games last season, but this season has exploded in the Pro A. Could he be the second Tiger within two years to make the jump to the ACB?

I know Ryan from last year and talked to him this year few times. I hope he is the next. He is a great fundamentally sounded player and leader and his ambitions are also very clear.

You live in a very beautiful place with Manresa. What have you appreciated most about living in Spain?

I like Manresa a lot. Its not too big but not too small either. Barcelona is very close and here is everything you need. Its about the same size of Tubingen. But the most I have appreciated are the people here. Our fans are amazing.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Red Notice.

Thanks Elias for the chat.

TreVion Crews (183-PG-1996, college: Bethel, IN) is a 26 year old 183cm guard from Fort Wayne Indiana recently played his first season overseas with German club PS Karlsruhe playing 17games averaging 12.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 91.3%. He also gained experience with the Fort Wayne Vision (MBL). He began his college ball at Jackson College and then played at Bethel College, Indiana from 2018-2021 playing a total of 98 games. He put up insane stats of 20.3ppg, 8.5rpg, 5.6apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 81.8%,, 23.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 90.6% and 24.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 5.0apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 86.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks TreVion for talking to germanhoops.com. Straight from the NAIA to Germany. Do you feel like your living the ultimate Cinderella story? You must be aware that very few NAIA guys have reached the Pro A level?

Oh yea absolutely! Like I said my journey to get to where I’m at has been amazing and each day I just stay consistent and control what I can control! Yes I am aware, but there is a lot of talent at the NAIA level!

What besides a giant chip on your shoulder and immense hard work has allowed you to keep progressing in your basketball career?

Two things, the love for the game and my family! Without a doubt if I wasn’t getting paid to play I would still try to compete because I just love it so much and it’s a part of me, and my family has been there for me through all my hardships and all my trials so they keep me level headed!

Since COVID emerged you were in the States and Romania. What were the biggest challenge for you on and off the court during the pandemic?

I didn’t go to Romania! But the biggest challenge in the states would have to be finding gyms with a consistent schedule! It was hard to get on courts and get in different locations because some places wasn’t allowing 2-3 people at once, so I struggled during that time trying to find a gym!

With all that you experienced during COVID, how do you believe did you get stronger as a man?

Covid allowed me to be more organized in what I was doing! I had a schedule, I had a diet, and I had a plan and I stuck with that plan for a while now so it helped me grow in that area!

You played your rookie season with German Pro A club PS Karlsruhe. What did you know in general about Germany and it’s history and basketball?

I didn’t know much about Germany so that’s why I was excited to come over and check it out! It’s a beautiful place, it’s a great league to be in and I’m happy I got this opportunity!

I can imagine you have heard about the Cinderella story of Cameron Hunt who played at Southwestern KS? You had a very exciting last months. Do you have immense self confidence coming to begin your pro career in a very competitive second division after having a G-League work out?

I’m not familiar with Cameron Hunt story!

You had insane stats in the NAIA. With what kind of a mind did you go into your rookie season in Germany?

Yes I would have high confidence in myself even if I didn’t train in the GLEAGUE! I’m just a confident player and I work on my craft and I’m confident that things will translate. My mindset will be how it always is, Dominate! Any opportunity I get to take the floor and lace up my shoes I want the world to know who I am and what I’m capable of so I must be a dominant player from start to finish! If I play hard and do what I’m supposed to do the stats will speak for themselves!

Let’s talk about your game. You have a game similar to Chris Paul. To what other NBA players would you compare your game to?

Yea I would also say Damian Lillard in terms of shooting the NBA 3 off the dribble and change of speeds to get to my spots

You have the complete package as a player. With you being so versatile, would you say that that is your biggest strength?

Yes absolutely, being able to do multiple things on the floor is a blessing and it makes it hard for teams to guard and scout against me!

How much pride do you take on the defensive end? What is your biggest strength there?

I take a lot of pride in defending I think it shows a lot of heart to do so much offensively then turn around and stop your man from scoring! My strength would have to be my quick hands and how strong I am!

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so that your game can continue to progress?

Being more vocal as a leader is an area I’m constantly growing in! I’m great at leading by example but at times I need to speak up and allow the team to hear my voice

Last summer you were in for a try-out with the Indiana Pacers. What kind of an experience was that seeing that NBA atmosphere at close hand? With what kind of a feeling did you leave there?

I actually did a pre draft workout for the Indiana Pacers! But the atmosphere was amazing, everything was professional and on time and I enjoyed it very much!

You were a bit nervous, but still held your own. What key advice did you get from the coaching staff?

Yes I was super nervous but one of my mentors/close friends told me that I’m not even supposed to be there so that alone helped me relax my mind and my body and to just leave everything out on the floor!

There you battled Kyle Mangas a guy you met often in the NAIA level. Was he able to help you reach another level in your game with all the times you played him and at the NBA workout? Do you continue to follow his path? He is playing a very good rookie season in the Czech Republic.

Yes playing against other great players will always bring the best out of you so having him at the workout was great! Yes I follow him still he is putting up great numbers in the league he’s in!

After high school you played with the Fort Wayne Vision (MBL). What kind of an experience was it being a boy playing with men?

Playing with the Vision was great, my uncle (Carlos Derrick) is actually the head coach so he made it a little smoother for me by teaching me everything I needed to know about the league! It definitely helped me get better as a player playing against men!

You then played a year at Jackson College (NJCAA). How did your game grow there and prepare you for your next step in the NAIA?

I got the privilege to be coached by an ex-NBA player Carl Thomas so that in itself was amazing and he allowed me to become more of a scorer then I was used too! He gave me a lot of knowledge as well and I learned a lot from playing for him!

You then played at Bethel University, Indiana (NAIA) from 2018-2021. You scored in double figures in 95 of 98 games. That’s incredible. What kind of rapid steps did your game make there?

I was ready, plain and simple! I had been prepping myself playing against great talent since I came out of high school so once I stepped on the college floor I was ready to show who I was!

You had so many incredible games including having 5 40 plus games. What was your most memorable game there?

That’s tough, I can’t choose 1 game but I’ve had a lot of great games against Indiana Wesleyan, Mount Vernon, and Spring Arbor!

How did head coach Steve Drabyn groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Draybn helped me hold myself accountable off the court! He was the guy who could careless about you as an athlete but more of you as a person! That translates to being a professional by being organized and doing the little things off the court professionals need to do to stay ready!

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zac Owens?

I always torched Zac! But no he is a great player, we’ve gotten so much closer as brothers since he came to Bethel!

Who was the toughest player that you faced that reached the NBA?

Kay Felder or VJ Beachem

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Terrell Crews, Treyvon Covington, Lowell Griggs, Demarien Smith, Ed Dyson

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


Lebron, Wade, Steph Curry, Shaq, Kobe

What is your personal opinion of the never ending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan or Lebron James?

I think Lebron is the greatest hands down! The teams he was able to get to the finals, the stats don’t lie, all that stuff shows he’s better to me

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


Naw I thought it was actually ok, it’s better than Bad Boys 3 and the remade Lion King!

Thanks Trevion for the chat.

To be honest I wasn’t too scared about the Celtics-Nets series and my Celtics not advancing. That it would be a sweep surprised me though. My positive feelings towards the Fraport Skyliners wasn’t any different in late summer in 2021 either. I mean they had a new Spanish coach with Diego Ocampo. In the last years Pedro Calles had made the Spanish way sexy in the easyCredit BBL with his incredible success with Rasta Vechta and continued maturity and bringing the Hamburg Towers to new heights. Plus Braunschweig had brought in a new coach and that project was also reaping success as well as Alba Berlin making the transition after the departure of Aito. So what could go wrong? So back to my Celtics. That Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving would be total messes in this series was something that few expected so the social media onslaught they have been suffering can be understandable. I’m just overjoyed that the Boston Celtics reached the next round, but now the next battle awaits against the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks. I can’t say the same for the Fraport Skyliners a club I have covered since the 2003-2004 season. I have witnessed a lot of joy and glory with the 2004 BBL title or remembering Tyrone Ellis and Alex King chugging down beers after defeating Alba Berlin to reach the 2005 final, or Pascal Roller miss a untypical clutch free throw in Bamberg in 2010 losing game 5 or Jordan Theodore heaving the ball up in the Le Colisee arena in Chalon seemingly trying to have his mom catch it back in Englewood, New Jersey after he was instrumental in helping the Fraport Skyliners win only their third club championship with the Fiba Europe Cup in 2016. Since that incredible achievement, the organization that came to life in 1999 has been heading in a downward spiral. There have been some seasons like 2006 and 2013 where the team was saved with a last second win to stay in the league. That isn’t the case this season. Only a wild card can help them. The season didn’t begin well and the club just never found a rhythm. I travel to many places during the season. If it’s Rhondorf, Koblenz, Giessen, Limburg or other places, I always heard the routine question which was ‘what has happened to the Fraport Skyliners’? It was tough always stuttering and trying to find some excuses for this so disappointing and brutal season. I reach Fraport Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson (188-G-1984, college: Auburn, agency: Interperformances) on the eve of their last road game of the season in Crailsheim. I’m a bit miffed as I hear his kids in the back round expecting silence as he is in a hotel room, but I guess with the brutal tough season traveling on game day to a meaningless game can be done. Even with a new baby on board, Quantez Robertson still finds some time to follow the NBA and the Celts-Nets series. ‘I was surprised of the Celtics sweep. But the Nets haven’t played together this season. I would of thought that the Nets would at least get 2 games’, said Quantez Robertson. Mega super star Kevin Durant has taken a beating on social media about his poor shooting series. It didn’t take him long to flee the States and head to Monaco to watch close friend Mike James battle in the Euroleague. ‘I feel you can’t really criticize the way KD played. He did all he could. It was just one of those series where he didn’t shoot the ball well. It helped the Celtics that they keyed in on him. They did a good job forcing him to take tough shots and get the team out of rhythm’, commented Quantez Robertson. Jayson Tatum stole the show from Kevin Durant, but he isn’t the new Durant yet. ‘I mean there is only one Kevin Durant. But it is a fact that Tatum is one of the best young players in the NBA now. He is scoring and defending and showing he is an allstar and on his way to becoming a superstar’, warned Quantez Robertson. After some NBA talk, it was time to rap about the very poor 2021-2022 season. It didn’t take long for Tez to think for the perfect sentence defining the season. ‘It was tough and unbearable’, stressed Quantez Robertson.

The best thing to do after a loss is to forget it and move on. But after a so disappointing season like this, you have to review it and then forget it. I have to admit, I wasn’t totally perplexed or shocked when the Fraport Skyliners brought in unknown Spanish coach Diego Ocampo who had coached in Europe’s best league ACB, but never had success. I was blinded by the success of Spanish coach Pedro Calles and others like Jesus Ramirez and Israel Gonzalez showing they can take over teams and show success. But I was wrong. Ocampo was a nice guy and I dreaded always seeing this short Spanish guy coming to the post game interview after every new loss, a bit more broken and reeling to find plausible excuses why his guys lost again. It is no secret that success also has to do with having the right combination of players and making the right chemistry. Unfortunately the Fraport Skyliners weren’t able to bring in the right players and they never found a rhythm this season. That the Fraport Skyliners had a limited budget surprised no one, but the team lives and dies with the point guard. Getting unproven Donovan Donaldson sealed the fate of the team from the start. I mean here and there you have to be flexible and be able juggle money and at least get a player that has won something or played in Germany before. I would have gotten Kendale Mccullum right away who had a very good season in Giessen. Ok so they also moved down, but that wasn’t his problem. That organization had numerous problems. By the time the Fraport Skyliners got ex NBA player Will Cherry, the team was already in the hole at 1-5. ‘It was very tough because we were losing. We had a bunch of good guys and had confidence, but once you get a losing streak, have injuries and have guys coming and going, it is hard to find the right chemistry’, stressed Quantez Robertson. At first it seemed like Will Cherry could have been that magical acquisition that would turn the club’s season around the way Justin Cobbs did in November 2014 when he was hauled in. Cherry and the Fraport Skyliners began with a massive road win in Ulm where Cherry was brilliant and after two tough loses against Bamberg and Braunschweig, beat Wurzburg and Crailsheim. But then came a four game losing streak including a tough 82-78 loss against Chemnitz that they should of won. This was one of many games that could have saved Frankfurt from being saved and being in the cellar at the end. Then there was another very brief moment of hope as they beat Heidelberg shortly before the new year at home and defeated arch rival Giessen. But after that the season totally fell apart. The win against Heidelberg would be their last win in their living room until the last game of the season against Bayreuth a little more than 4 months later. The club had many problems, but for Tez the biggest was just being able to score. ‘Lack of execution hurt us the most in the fourth quarter. Not being able to defend the ball and getting stops when we needed to hurt us the most’, remembered Quantez Robertson. There was one positive aspect to the terrible season. ‘We fought every game hard. Despite losing so much, we never gave up’, stressed Quantez Robertson.

After the win in Giessen is when the Fraport Skyliners season was decided as winning then became as difficult as trying to figure out how to stop a Giannis in the post for anyone on earth. The big losing streak occurred in January and the club should have reacted then and fired Diego Ocampo, but instead kept him on board believing he could be the miracle worker. Instead they let Ocampo go on March 17th. ‘I think that making a coaching change could have been better had it happened earlier. Otherwise they should of just left Ocampo until the end. Making that change so late was really tough for the players. The new coach wanted a new system which made it hard to adjust to so late in season’, expressed Quantez Robertson. The club would then lose 13 of 14 games and when the season was finally almost over, they finally began to play better winning three of their last four games against Oldenburg, Crailsheim and Bayreuth. The club had a talented bunch of players, but if there is no sound rhythm and chemistry, it is harder to play together and score baskets. The team scored the least points in the EasyCredit BBL with 73 per game. They were one of the better defensive teams allowing 79 points per game. What a shame to be able to play so hard on the defensive end, but not get rewarded because one can’t produce points. Not having good starts into games scoring wise seemed to plague Frankfurt. ‘I believe that a lot of games were decided in the first half. In order to get back into the game, you need more energy. We had problems not having the extra energy to finish our comebacks’, commented Quantez Robertson. There were so many losses against teams like Chemnitz, Goettingen, Ulm, Bamberg, and Giessen that they should of won, but didn’t. These losses were the difference between getting over the hump and remaining in the league and not. They also belonged to the poorest three point shooting teams at 29%. Despite this they continued to heave away from the parking lot instead of trying to have more of an inside out game. Even when ex Euroleague player Jamel Mclean joined the team, they still should of played more inside ball. They should of involved 221cm giant rookie Matt Haarms more in the offense, but the three ball was more on the menu.

It isn’t easy to rate the season of the individual players with positive words after such a poor season. The team’s top scorer was Will Cherry (14/3/4 stats). He had some massive games and was a big reason for the wins against Ulm, Braunschweig, Giessen, Heidelberg and Oldenburg. But he couldn’t bring more consistency. There were games where his hero ball and not being able to take care of the ball hurt the team. Jamel Mclean (11p/5r) was also a bright spot despite coming to the team injured and not in the best shape. He showed glimpses of why he played for numerous Euroleague teams. That he averaged 22 minutes a game is a bit of a shock considering he often was winded and should of been on the bench more. His post moves and finishes were nice to watch and he surprised me in the last game that he still has good athleticism making many dunks. I hope he plays 2-3 more years. Marcel Ponitka (9/3/4) came late, but he was a positive aspect. He is a guy that would have made a difference had he been on board from the start. He always played with energy at both ends and showed he could score at ease and be a facilitator. Quantez Robertson (8/4/3) played his 13th season and unfortunately is declining in his play. He showed at the start that his scoring qualities had to be present as he scored in double figures in 9 of 12 games, but in the last 16 games scored only in double figures in 4 games. His three didn’t come well as it was his second worst shooting percentage for a season since the 2011-2012 season. ‘The season was frustrating for me. Not being able to close out games effected my play’, added Quantez Robertson. If the team gets a wild card, I believe that his chances are 50/50 of returning. His love for the game is huge, but he just became a dad for the third time and with age creeping up and thinking of family could make him retire. ‘I don’t know yet what I’m going to do’, stressed Quantez Robertson. Brancou Badio (10/2/2) who was hauled in by Diego Ocampo had a good start as his scoring qualities helped the team, but as a young player, he didn’t have the needed experience to be able to help the team more. Inconsistency and 1-1 play took over as the losing got worse. After the Fiba window in Feb, his play diminished and he played no role for new coach Luca Dalmonte getting DNP’s.

One of the biggest disappointments was Lukas Wank (5/3/1) who came in and wasd supposed to help at the point something that no one understood except the coach. Seeing him play often had one wondering if he was on the court or somewhere else. He showed his scoring abilities way too little and his ball handling was poor. Why was he seen as a potential point guard if he coughed up the ball 6 times against Alba Berlin and 8 times against Ludwigsburg. The guy always played with energy, but just couldn’t give the team the needed support that was awaited from him. The only consolation was that he was the team’s best three point shooter at 35%. Rookie Matt Haarms (7/4/1bs) had a solid rookie season. But I often wondered how a guy at 221cm can miss so many easy shots next to the rim. He had games where he showed his potential and especially on the defensive end could become a defensive stopper and that will come with experience. He should have had more of a role in the offensive system. Len Schoormann (7,0/2,0rpg) played his real first easyCredit BBL season where he saw ample minutes going from 7,0 minutes to 23 minutes. He had blitzes where he scored in bunches. His drive is very strong, but his inconsistent three pointer is what will decide if he becomes a solid BBL player or doesn’t. On top of that, his 1-1 defense continues to be a major work in progress. He has a long summer ahead of him in the lab. It will be interesting to see what player he is next season and if he returns to Frankfurt. The Two players who I feel developed the best in this dismal season were Rasheed Moore (10/5/1) and Lorenz Brenneke (6/3). It is no secret that I have been a big Moore fan for years. Not many have gone the tightrope like he has from the Regionalliga to BBL in three years. He showed last season that he can be a go to guy, but also does so much more with rebounding and finding his teammates. He had a poor 2 month span from January -March, but after that finished strong finishing scoring in double figures in 10 of 11 games and in his last 8. This guy has so much heart, maybe second to Quantez Robertson on the team and his work ethic is incredible. I remember seeing him get up shots on a Saturday night at 9:00 pm after having watched the farm team Juniors where he was one of the few guys that did on the team. He has a chip on his shoulder and ready to make the next step. He will reach the next level. After not getting a chance with Alba Berlin, Brenneke sought a new challenge with the Fraport Skyliners. As a young player, inexperience and consistency were an issue, but he showed in enough games that he has BBL format. His inside game is refreshing and often was able to give the team the needed energy in moments when it really needed it. Developing a three could be beneficial as in today’s game that is something that more and more bigs seem to have. Tez also agreed that Moore and Brenneke made big strides, but so did Len Schoormann. ‘These guys played their roles well and did what was expected. Lorenz always played hard with the short minutes that he got. Rasheed played well for the majority of the season. He shot the ball well. Len got off to a good start. When he got hurt, it messed up his confidence a little and took some time for him to get his rhythm back’, stated Quantez Robertson.

The basketball God was looking down on the Fraport Skyliners organization with a big smile in the last weeks. The 2000 BBL cup winner got a lot of help in the Pro A playoffs as teams that had BBL ambitions like Bremerhaven and Trier lost. Now nothing stands in the way for them to go for the wild card. 45 minutes after the win in Bayreuth, it was mentioned at the fans farewell party outside the arena that the Skyliners would get active for the wildcard. It will cost 700,000 Euros, but in the long run, it is better to stay in the BBL. Going down to the Pro A is too risky as it is a lot more difficult to move right back as there have been teams like Bremerhaven, Trier and Tuebingen that haven’t returned back for many years. Despite the season being a tough one, Quantez Robertson has some fond memories. ‘Obviously my daughter being born was huge. Another nice memory was the final game against Oldenburg and playing one last time against Rickey Paulding. It was always fun to play against him. We didn’t guard each other in this game. We talked a little before the game about staying healthy and what we would be doing next. I hope we meet again sometimes. Maybe we will stop in each other’s state’, explained Quantez Robertson. When I ended the call last week, I said ‘see you Sunday. I hope it isn’t for the last time’. Tez just laughed and didn’t say anything and we hung up. After the win against medi Bayreuth, I conducted my last post game interview of the season. He then got up to meet the fans outside. He departed saying ‘I know that we will be talking this summer again about basketball’. I hope our next chat isn’t only about the NBA or retirement, but about him and the 2022-2023 Fraport Skyliners.

Tags : QUANT

Spencer Reaves (191-G-1995, college: Central Mo., agency: One Motive Sports) is a 26 year old 191cm guard from Newark, Arkansas playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He played his first three professional seasons in Spain with Azpeitia Juaristi Iraurgi Saski Baloia (Spain-LEB Silver) and UBU Tizona Burgos (Spain-LEB Gold). He began his basketball career with / Cedar Ridge High School and then played a season with North Greenville University (NCAA2). He then finished at the University of Central Missouri (NCAA2) from 2015-2018 playing a total of 85 games averaging 12.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.5% in his second season, 17.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 59.9%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 85.4% as a junior and17.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 88.6% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com after helping the Bayer Giants Leverkusen beat the Romerstrom Gladiators and advance to the Pro A semi-finals to meet Tuebingen.

Spencer thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on advancing to the semi-finals of the pro A playoffs. How much did this win raise your wining joy after winning game three?

We are happy to be in the spot we are in. Making the semifinals is never an easy task. We going to get back to work this week and hopefully have a good series against a really tough team.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen had their destiny in their own hands. How key have your fans been all season long for being able to help push the team to success?

Now that the covid restrictions have lessened a bit, more fans keep making their way into Ostermann-Arena. We broke the season attendance record easily in game 4. We hope to have the same support in the next round as well! It always helps the team.

The first quarter was a tight battle as Trier led 23-22 after 10 minutes. How interesting was it observing the big man battle inside this series with Heinzmann/Baeck vs Wiley/Wolf. From your feeling over the series, who won these battles for the series?

For me, I was happy I was a guard in this series. Those are all monster guys and players that show why they are some of the best in the league. I think both duos battled really well and luckily we were able to make more plays down the stretch to win the series.

The game continued to be a tight affair in the second quarter as Leverkusen led 45-44. How key was young German player Robert Merz who hit two three pointer early. He really was able to take vital responsibility in that phase.

Rob is great for us. He’s always ready, always hungry to improve his game. Hansi gives everyone a chance and he made the most of it on Friday. I told him after the game he was a big reason why were able to win. I have to give credit to all the young guys though because they played this playoff series like veterans. Not an easy thing to do.

The contest continued to be a real battle as Trier had the 63-60 advantage after 30 minutes. What key words of advice do you remember Hansi Gnad telling the team before taking care of business in the fourth quarter?

Well Hansi always preaches defensive stops. We normally don’t have issues with scoring the ball. Hansi emphasized getting stops and being able to run in transition against such a big team like Trier.

The game continued to be a real struggle going into crunch-time and despite Trier only leading by some points, it seemed like they had the momentum. What was going through your head most to get over the hump and get the lead back?

Like I said before, it was just about getting stops, limiting them to 1 shot, then executing on the offensive end. We always try to trust the work we have put in and normally it works out pretty well for us.

With Trier leading 75-72 the Bayer Giants Leverkusen took control at the exact last moment going on a 8-0 run. It couldn’t have been constructed any better.

You have to give credit to our fans honestly. Once you get a stop or two, follow that with a basket, they really bring the energy into the building. It was really huge for us in that moment.

Trier definitely had numerous chances in the last minute as good shooters like Grun and Zeeb missed shots that could have decided the game. Was this kind of defense that you will have to continue to display against Tuebingen?

Tuebingen is a different team than Trier but very very hardworking like them. We will have to play a different style against Tuebingen and also throw different things at them to keep them from being comfortable. I know Hansi and Jacques will have us ready and prepared.

You hit back to back buckets and as usual was a key factor in the offense getting over the hump. How key was it reading the defense correctly in leading to your two baskets in the last minute?

I had decent success all series on the ball screen action. Their drop cover was a little easier with Wiley having fouled out. I was able to get a little deeper in the paint to get the shots off. Luckily they were able to fall.

Trier did many things better like hitting three’s and rebounding. How decisive were the 4 more Trier turnovers in Leverkusen being able to pull out the win?

We did a decent job all series on taking care of the ball. Feel like the guys played really good defense down the stretch to cause a few more turnovers. It gave us the chances to win.

You had another good game with 18 points, but more importantly hit big time shots in crunch-time again. Do you feel like you will be able to heighten your game to another level once again vs Tuebingen?

That’s the plan at least. I just want to put the team in the best position to win. Against trier I was needed as a playmaker and we were able to get the job done. We will see what is required against Tubingen next round.

You now face Tuebingen who have been the absolute surprise team of the season. You lost the second game in a phase where they were losing many games. After that they really rose their game winning 13 of 15 games. How dangerous is this club?

They are a really good team. They play smart, together and with a lot of energy. There is a reason they are the #1 seed. They have earned it and won games in the biggest moments. We will have to be ready.

Tuebingen scored well in both wins. I’m sure Hansi Gnad will have the team prepared for the series. What will be key for being able to win this series against the surprise team of the season?

Well we beat them at home this season. We need to replicate the gameplan. And especially with the playoffs, make adjustments throughout the series. It’s going to be really fun.

Have you met Leverkusen soccer legend Stefan Kiesling? He was there at game 5 and surely was in perfect mode helping cheer on the team to the win?

We love to have people like him at the games. I have never met him, hopefully I will soon. We are super appreciative of all the fans that I’ve came to the games this season. We hope to see them when we come back for game 3 and 4. definitely need their help.

Thanks Spencer for the chat

There have been so many years especially when the Fraport Skyliners had had success where no basketball junkie wanted the season to end. But this season had been a nasty ordeal where losing became the norm for the 2016 Fiba Europe Cup winner. It has been one of the seasons where one was happy that the season was finally over. But the Fraport Skyliners wanted to close out the season in style against medi bayreuth. The Fraport Skyliners had been playing a lot better basketball in the last weeks beating a very much improved EWE Baskets team since the arrival of new head coach Ingo Freyer and playoff candidate Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. This season against Bavarian team medi bayreuth, Frankfurt had lost 85-72 on the road where the execution rate of the three ball decided the game. The Fraport Skyliners wanted to end this dismal and forgettable season on a high note and did winning three of their last four games and their last regular season game 82-70 over medi bayreuth. When it counted most the Fraport Skyliners were able to execute at both ends of the court in the fourth quarter and never allowed the guests over the hump. ‘We fought the whole game and whenever they made runs, we were able to hold up well against it and execute. We took care of the ball well and had less of live turnovers. We took our open shots whenever we had them and didn’t hesitate. We fought for our fans and wanted to go out with a bang’, stressed Quantez Robertson. It had been a very tough season for the Bavarian team as they had no answer how to limit the hot Frankfurt shooting. ‘They shot the ball really well and we couldn’t get stops late. They also got baskets in the paint and Mclean played well. I thought that we defended well at times, but when a team shoots as well as they did, it is hard to win. We had a super up and down season. We were never able to find a niche with our group’, stressed medi bayreuth guard Marcus Thornton. ‘Frankfurt found their rhythm early and shot the ball very well the entire game. That helped their self-confidence and that carried them’, stated medi Bayreuth head coach Raoul Korner.

The first quarter was a real scoring fest as 54 points were scored and the game was dead locked at 27-27 after 10 minutes. The Fraport Skyliners didn’t waste any time nailing back to back three’s from Rasheed Moore and Marcel Ponitka. It also didn’t take the guests long to get over their mini shock as they hit three’s from ex Marquette (NCAA) forward Sacar Anim and ex Nurnberg guard Bastian Doreth to trail 8-6. Both teams offenses were rolling as Frankfurt continued their smooth execution receiving a trey from ex NBA player Will Cherry and a lay in from Ponitka to lead 13-8. But medi Bayreuth didn’t lay down as they continued to attack and relied on the three ball getting back to back three’s from Anim and Estonian forward Janari Joesaar to capture their first lead of the game at 14-13 as it was raining three’s. Both teams continued to rattle off points as if it was nothing as there would be four more lead changes. Cherry and Quantez Robertson made baskets while ex Trier center Andreas Seiferth made a lay in and ex Boston Celtic Marcus Thornton steered 5 points for the 22-19 Bayreuth advantage. Seiferth continued to be hot making a trey and lay in for the 27-24 advantage. But the Fraport Skyliners would have the last laugh as Quantez Robertson fired home an unconventional three at the buzzer behind the BBL logo behind center court to tie the game at 27-27. ‘There was a lot of scoring as both teams left guys open. The rotating and talking wasn’t good. I knew the ball was going in with the way I was lined up in the air. Every once in a while I practice these in practice’, smiled Quantez Robertson.

In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued to execute well on offense and also shaved down the Bayreuth points to more than half of what they scored in the first quarter. The Fraport Skyliners began the second quarter on fire and took that momentum that Quantez Robertson had given them with his buzzer beater and responded with a brutal 9-0 run on consecutive three’s from Germans Len Schoorman, Lukas Wank and Ponitka to lead 36-27. Frankfurt had upped their defensive intensity forcing Bayreuth more to hurried shots which ruptured their execution rate. Bayreuth then got some rapid production with a Joesaar lay in and Allen three pointer to trail only 38-32, but Frankfurt remained consistent and also unpredictable as they didn’t only heave three’s but continued to use their height and physical advantages getting key dunks from Mclean and rookie Matt Haarms to lead 44-34. Mclean wanted to go out not only on top with a win, but also with a good personal game and did with 13 points on 5/6 shooting including making numerous dunks. ‘When he dunks, it does take a lot out of him for the next plays. But when he gets that fire in his eyes and he hedges out aggressively then he is able to finish well’, stated Quantez Robertson. Bastian Doreth connected on a trey and Mclean closed out the first half with a typical lay in as the Fraport Skyliners led 48-39 at the break. ‘We did a good job moving the ball and finding guys and making the right plays. We took time and executed and found the mis matches in the post’, added Quantez Robertson.

In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners got sloppy on offense scoring only 12 points and still played pretty good defense to keep the lead. Medi Bayreuth came into the second half rejuvenated and struck Frankfurt with a nasty 9-2 run to cut the lead down to 50-48. In the run the guests got vintage support from ex Richmond (NCAA) forward Terry Allen with 5 points while Seiferth continued to get touches in the paint producing a easy lay in and Joesaar also scored on the back door cut as Allen dished out the dime. Medi Bayreuth was playing smart inside out basketball while Frankfurt was falling back into old habits with coughing up the ball and being sloppy. But instead of falling apart like in so many other games this season, they were able to withstand the blow and struck right back executing better again as Mclean scored in the paint, Robertson nailed a deep three and Moore scored on the fast break to lead 57-51. Frankfurt was playing with a higher intensity and got back to old good habits playing transition. But Bayreuth also never stopped fighting and got a key bucket by Seiferth and beautiful trey by Thornton to cut the Frankfurt lead to 57-56. Wank converted on a clutch three pointer to close out the third quarter leading 60-56. ‘We knew that they would make a run, but we remained aggressive on defense and made key shots down the stretch’, said Quantez Robertson. ‘We had lapses on defense. We can’t have lapses like that when they are shooting so well. We were unable to limit their runs’, stressed Marcus Thornton.

In the fourth quarter the precision shooting of the Fraport Skyliners returned and they also upped their defensive stops which didn’t allow the guests to get over the hump again. Anim got the Bayreuth hearts going again with a 20 footer pull up to keep Bayreuth close trailing 62-58. But Frankfurt wasn’t going to allow any more big runs as 2017 JBBL finalist Len Schoormann put a little dagger in the Bayreuth hearts with back to back three pointers upping Frankfurt’s lead to 68-58. But Bayreuth was never out of the game always coming back supplying their own little punch as Anim remained aggressive scoring inside and Thornton dropped another big three as Bayreuth trailed only 68-63. Both teams were executing and the only difference was that the guests weren’t able to make any real ground as Frankfurt kept scoring. Frankfurt got buckets from Moore with a runner and a Cherry lay in as Frankfurt remained on top leading 74-65. Medi Bayreuth had the next answer as Allen dropped another trey and Seiferth made a 25 footer, but Frankfurt still led 76-70. But that was the last punch that medi Bayreuth would have as the Fraport Skyliners then served up the knock out punch closing out the contest with a 6-0 run. In the run, Frankfurt got support from Ponitka with a lay in, a Mclead dunk and Wank free throws. ‘We stayed aggressive on defense and continued to play hard and stayed together’, warned Quantez Robertson. We couldn’t get stops and their guards did a good job getting to the hoop or kicking it out’, stated Marcus Thornton. ‘We never found ourselves after the Fiba windows. But despite all the turbulences that we had, there were three positives. One we remained in the BBL, two we never gave up and three having the amazing fan support’, stressed Raoul Korner. The Fraport Skyliners had six players in double figures and were led by Marcel Ponitka with 14 points. Jamel McLean (202-C-1988, college: Xavier) added 13 points and Len Schoormann 12 points while medi Bayreuth was led by Andreas Seiferth with 17 points while Marcus Thornton added 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 51% from the field and 50% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 13 turnovers while medi Bayreuth shot 42% from the field and 41% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 19 turnovers.