Even if the Dragons Rhondorf finished 2021 in ninth place with a 4-9 record, things definitely have been looking up for the pro B team led by head coach Julius Thomas. The way the club is presenting it’s self now in comparison to the start of the season where they lost by 40 points to Wedel and 33 points to Munster is like day and night. Things have been looking up as they played very solid in tough losses to Iserlohn and Schwelm and last won against the BSW Sixers. In the first game of 2022, they had a tough task going up against ambitious squad SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt who arrived into the game with a 8-4 record and last lost a nail bitter to TSK 49ers 62-60 and were very motivated to start things off in 2022 on the right foot as they stepped on the court in Rhondorf with very very experienced and talented player like Bill Borekambi, but the club also was badly shorthanded. They had a 7 man rotation and were without key players Jordan Talbert, Philipp Liesser, Martin Bogdanovic, Shore Adenaken and Jermie Woods. The Dragons Rhondorf wanted to keep their winning streak alive and go into 2022 with a bang and did upsetting the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt 88-80. The potent scoring attack of Paul and Bruno Albrecht and key three point shooting efficiency and timely game management were vital for the Dragons Rhondorf beginning the season off on the right foot as well as other things. ‘They had many injuries but we can’t use that as an excuse. I’m very proud of the young team. We all fought together. We keep getting better especially our defense. We play the same defensive system as Bonn. It takes a while to have it down as we had some let downs, but we are practicing hard to get it down’, stressed Dragons forward Paul Albrecht (208-PF-93). The SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt gave all they could, but just couldn’t get the job done with their 7 man rotation. ‘We had a new rotation, lack of chemistry and lack of practice. We couldn’t match their energy. They made a lot of three’s. We had spurts of not being consistent on defense. We let their shooters shoot’, stressed injured forward Shore Adenekan.

Both teams were feeling each other out in the first few minutes as a few field goals and three’s by Croatian teenager Denis Zenelah and ex Rostock NBBL allstar Nicolas Buchholz had the game dead locked at 5-5. But the Dragons Rhondorf then found their offensive rhythm going on a 11-2 run to extend their lead to 16-7. In the run Rhondorf got their transition basketball going as 17 year old Senegal sensation Ousmane Ndiaye scored twice on the fast break and ex Stahnsdorf guard Oshane Drews hit free throws and made a hard two handed dunk. Both teams were aggressive on the offensive glass, but Rhondorf aggressive defense didn’t allow the guests to secure an offensive rhythm. It also helped Rhondorf that they limited the touches of walking bucket Bill Borakambi. The Dragons offense flow rose as Buchholz and Viktor Frankl-Maus nailed three pointers for the 22-9 advantage. The Dragons Rhondorf lost some spark on the defensive end in the last minute allowing back to back three’s to Zenelah and ex Dresden forward Marc Nagora as Wolmirstedt trailed only 22-15 after 10 minutes. Both teams were still searching for their offensive shooting touch while Rhondorf had the 13-12 rebound edge and only 1 turnover while the guests had 3 turnovers. ‘We began well. We went into the game with the right attitude. We showed that we didn’t take them lightly because of all the injuries. We showed 100% focus’, warned Paul Albrecht. ‘They came out with a lot of energy and we couldn’t match it’, stated Shore Adenekan.

In the second quarter the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt fought back and there were 4 lead changes, but in the second half of the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf got control of the game again and led 44-37 at the break. The guests jumped all over the Dragons Rhondorf going on a 10-2 run to retake the lead at 25-24. In the run Wolmirstedt received sound production from a number of players as Zenelah dropped a trey, point guard Steffen Haufs who once had 18 assists against Crailsheim scored on a lay in and Bill Borekambi scored easily on transition after making a steal. Rhondorf got sloppy on offense and didn’t play 1-1 defense. After Albrecht and Nagora Hit three’s, it was time again for a Rhondorf run as they outscored the guests 11-3 extending their lead to 39-30. In the run the Dragons got 5 points form Paul Albrecht, a three by Bruno Albrecht and a lay in from Oshane Drews. Paul Albrecht carried the team and on defense they stepped up their aggressiveness as their up and down play continued in trying to get stops. ‘Our game supports the guards more than the bigs. But I’m happy they found me today. They rely on my game and I rely on the game of my teammates’, warned Paul Albrecht. Rhondorf was able to keep the lead and momentum getting free throws from Ndiaye and a trey from Paul Albrecht while the guests got free throws from Haufs and a lay in from Latvian forward Roberts Dembskis. Both teams were shooting under 40%, but Rhondorf made a jump on the boards having the 26-21 edge and 11 offensive turnovers while having 6 turnovers and the guests only five. ‘Last season when things got tough, we fell apart. That doesn’t happen this season. We are a lot tougher’, stated Paul Albrecht. ‘We made a lot of mistakes on defense. We didn’t have good communication’, stressed guard Dominick Von Waaden.

The Dragons Rhondorf controlled the game in the third quarter and even when the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt could cut it down to three points twice, the Dragons Rhondorf never gave up and allowed them to get over the hump. Marc Nagora gave the guests the first points of the second half cutting down the Dragons lead to 44-39. But Rhondorf struck back rapidly with a Ndiaye lay in streaking in from the wing displaying his quickness and athleticism and then Frankl-Maus dropped a trey for the 49-39 advantage. But the guests didn’t allow that 7 man rotation to lessen their self-confidence or fighting qualities as they struck back with a 7-0 run. In the run it was superb role player Dominick Von Waaden who steered home 5 points to cut the lead down to 49-46. He had a bigger role then usual and really carried the team in the second half as Borekambi was contained well. ‘I was 1/9 in the first half. That made me mad. I changed my hair tie and that helped me find my rhythm’, smiled Dominick Von Waaden. But whenever the guests threatened, the Dragons had an answer. In this phase the three’s came raining down as Ndiaye connected as did ex Ehingen player Bruno Albrecht who scored twice for the 58-51 advantage. But the guests kept chipping away getting two free throws from the always aggressive Von Waaden and a three from little used young German Jan Bergen to cut the lead down to 58-55. But the Dragons Rhondorf remained mentally strong and finished efficiently with a 8-2 run to lead 66-57 after 30 minutes. In the run the Dragons continued to get that consistency from Paul Albrecht who added 5 points and Ndiaye added another trey. Rhondorf was shooting over 40% from the field and from outside and had the 33-28 rebound advantage while both teams had 8 turnovers a piece. ‘We showed that we were mentally strong and have confidence in what we can do’, said Paul Albrecht. ‘They did a good job hitting three pointers especially every time we did. They were sparked by their young players who hit three’s with hands in their faces’, stated Dominick Von Waaden.

In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf seemed to have total control leading by as much as 13 points, but mental and defensive mistakes allowed Wolmirstedt to cut the lead down to three points, but big three’s and one form an unexpected player iced the win. 8 big points by Bruno Albrecht including two three’s gave the Dragons Rhondorf their biggest lead of the game at 74-61. ‘He is an unbelievable player. He makes mistakes on defense and is a streaky shooter, but the kid can really shoot the ball when he wants to’, stressed Paul Albrecht. The guests were using a lot of energy in their continuous come back attempts, but with crunch-time approaching still had some energy left going on a 13-3 run to cut the Dragons lead down to 77-74. In the run the guests were led by Von Waden who continued to be everywhere on the court scoring 8 points as the Dragons had totally lost their energy and rhythm as defensive mistakes rattled their game. But Rhondorf hadn’t caved in once in the game and weren’t about to do it now. The Dragons Rhondorf then put the nail on the coffin with a lethal 8-2 run to extend their lead to 85-76. In the run the two German Albrecht’s scored back to back as Paul made a lay in and Bruno a three pointer while Oshane Drews made an unexpected trey from the corner. He came into the game shooting 11% from outside and when he saw nothing but net, there were faces of disbelief on the Wolmirstedt bench and smiles on the Rhondorf bench. ‘When he took the shot we were all surprised, but when he hit it, we were all happy’, smiled Paul Albrecht. Frankl-Maus closed out the game with free throws. ‘We were a bit overpowered at the end. We fought so hard, but they never stopped hitting three’s’, stressed Dominick Von Waden. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Paul Albrecht with 23 points and 14 rebounds. Bruno Albrecht added 20 points while Ousmane Ndiaye added 18 points, 14 boards, 3 assists and 4 blocks. The SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt were led by Dominick Von Waaden with 26 points while Steffen Haufs added 16 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 44% from the field and 40% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt shot 40% from the field and 42% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Even the best three point shooters in NBA History like Steve Kerr, Steph Curry and Jason Kapono weren’t born with the shooting gene, but had to grind in the gym to perfect their incredible consistency form the parking lot. No pain no gain is a common saying or as was the case for current Telekom Baskets Bonn forward Justin Gorham it was sweat equity as preached by the University of Houston assistant coach Kellen Sampson. If you’re a young talented kid that is going to the University of Houston, then there is a good chance that you will leave having improved your three point shot. Other Houston players like Fabian White Jr or Devin Davis profited under the guidance of Kellen Sampson and it wasn’t any different for Juston Gorham. The Maryland native left Towson after 2 years having only attempted 14 three’s and when he left Houston, he had taken 81 three’s and continues to do so as a professional player in Germany for the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He probably hadn’t even had his first meal on the campus of Houston in 2018 when he had to redshirt and was probably already in the gym beginning to improve his three pointer. ‘I always could shoot, but I played more the 5 at Towson and wasn’t on the perimeter’, remembered Juston Gorham. When he arrived in Houston that all changed. He felt like he was in the gym all day. He would be shooting for 2 hours before a game and 2 hours after a game. He would shoot from 4 spots on the court and have to drain 6/8 shots. ‘Coach Kellen just wouldn’t let me go after practice. I would put in many reps and I never took a day off. If I got tired and my shot was flat, he would tell me to raise my shot and stay off the front rim. Coach always told me that sweat equity was key. The time I put in will affect my shot’, stressed Justin Gorham (201-F-98, college: Houston)

The American who lists ex UConn (NCAA) and current Charlotte (NBA) guard James Bouknight as his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on August 6th, 1998 in Columbia, Maryland. He began his basketball career at Calvert Hall high school. He was a 3 star recruit who then committed to play at Towson University and picked it so he could be close to his dad who had been diagnosed with duodenal cancer. He played at Towson University from 2016-2018 playing a total of 64 NCAA games. In his freshman year he averaged 2,8ppg and 2,8rpg while playing only 10 minutes per game. He made a huge jump in his sophomore year averaging 23 minutes and 9.8ppg, 6.7rpg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 70.9%. He scored in double figures in 14 games including a 28/12 explosion against Northeastern and 21/12 against Delaware and 20/12 against Hofstra. His game was able to grow nicely under head coach Pat Sherry. ‘He embodied Toughness and rebounding in me. He also introduced the value of rebounding. It was really helpful to go to Towson my first years’, stated Justin Gorham Despite his rapid rise in his second year, he decided to leave the school and go to the University Of Houston. He left Towson on a good note and just wanted a change of scenery. The American also wanted to get an opportunity to play in the NCAA tournament something he would earn as a senior.

The forward who lists four Houston teammates as his best of all-time with Dejon Jarreau, Quentin Grimes, Brison Gresham and Marcus Sasser and Zane Martin averaged only 12 minutes per game as a junior averaging 3,0ppg and 2,5rpg, but as a senior made a rapid jump playing 27 minutes per game and averaging 8.4ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 67.4%. He was an instrumental factor in the magical Houston Final 4 run defeating CSU, Rutgers, Syracuse, and Oregon State before losing to Baylor. Especially the big win over Rutgers is one that he will never forget. ‘I remember the game against Rutgers a lot. I remember we were down by 6 points at the half. Coach was really on us for not defending and rebounding the way we should of. We were still down in the second half, but never gave up. We kept chipping away and fighting. One of our freshman made a big tip in to tie the game. We then made big stops down the stretch to pull out the win’, remembered Justin Gorham It was a tough senior season despite the success. With Covid you never knew what to expect and you had to stay locked it. The whole team had Covid at one point during the season. It was during tough times like this where a certain brotherhood developed for Gorham, especially with teammates Grimes and Jarreau. Assistant coach Kellen Sampson was so important for him developing his three, but head coach Kelvin Sampson also was vital in him being ready to be a professional player. ‘He is a Hall Of Fame coach that has NBA experience. He always preached defense and rebounding. He always stressed that we have to be an allstar at our role and always said having the right attitude and effort will help you get success. He pushed us each day’, remembered Justin Gorham

The American who lists Jordan, Lebron, Durant and Chamberlain on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. Nothing has been easy for anyone since the outbreak of COVID as he had first experienced it in his junior season at Houston. Not knowing if games would be cancelled or how much of an affect players having covid would affect the success of the team was his biggest challenge. His rookie season has been successful on the court, but off the court being overseas for the first time has been a challenge coupled with COVID, but having seen so much off the court has made him stronger as a man. ‘I’m more aware of the little things that can be taken away. Maybe 5 years ago you wouldn’t of hand sanitizer around, but now you do’, said Justin Gorham His rookie season on the court has been an enjoyable one so far as his teammates have welcomed him with open arms and seeing how all the work the team has done since August come together has been special. His winning genes that he had in the NCAA with Houston has in a way also had an effect on the new winning culture in Bonn. ‘I think that coach’s winning ways in Crailsheim also have helped. I did a lot of the little things on the court at Houston and I brought those habits here which has helped my game and my team’, expressed Justin Gorham A big reason for the success has been new head coach Tuomas Iisalo. The club is currently 12-3 and sitting in first place and have a healthy self-confidence that continues to grow. ‘Our secret is our chemistry. We all get a long and have a great vibe in practice. We all buy in to what coach preaches in practice and do it on the court. We all have a positive mindset and want to win. Coach doesn’t step away from what he preached at Crailsheim. We watch a lot of video from his time there. He continues to find different winning strategies and we follow them’, warned Justin Gorham Two teammates who have been extremely vital in him being able to play his game successfully have been top point guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright and veteran Jeremy Morgan. ‘It has been a real pleasure playing with Parker. I was already familiar with him at Arizona. He is always in the paint and if he isn’t scoring when the defense collapses on him, then his great IQ helps him find his teammates. He isn’t one dimensional. Jeremy has been so important for me. He played with coach in the past and he told me what coach like and what he doesn’t like. He also helped me see how I can be successful in his system. He also has told me the little things I need to know and what work in order to be successful in Europe’, stated Justin Gorham

The 2021 NCAA Final Four player who believes that the Coming To American movie should have been left alone is a 201 cm forward that compares his game to his favorite player PJ Tucker a guy who rebounds and can make the three. But his new developed three pointer, rebounding and defense aren’t the only strengths in his game. ‘I feel like my decision making is good. I know when to make the extra pass and I also feel like my physicality is also something that my game profits from’, warned Justin Gorham He doesn’t only shine on the offensive end where he is currently averaging 8,2ppg and 5,1rpg and has scored in double figures in 6 games including 16 points against Bamberg, 15 points against MBC and 14 points against Ludwigsburg, but is also a solid defender. He definitely wants to continue to make strides on the defensive end so he can continue to climb the basketball ladder. ‘I can guard in the post and on the perimeter. But I’m working more on defending the perimeter. I don’t feel like it’s a weakness, but it is simply something I’m not used to. I want to better at not fouling the drive and just keeping my feet consistent’, stressed Justin Gorham He wants to improve his ball handling as well as his shooting something he worked so hard on together with Kellen Sampson and something that he won’t refrain doing. ‘I want my three to become more consistent. And if I’m not taking the three, then I want to have a consistent one dribble pull up. Shot selection is also important. I have to know when I’m open to shoot and if I’m taking a good shot. That will come with experience. If I’m open in the corner then I have to know that I have the green light as well as if I get the extra pass. I have to know the shot I’m taking is a rhythmic shot’, warned Justin Gorham One thing is for sure that sweat equity label that was instilled in his mind from Kellen Sampson is something that won’t ever disappear from him. He just invested way too much time in Houston to ever lose that sweat equity mentality.Tags

John Murry (192-G-95, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

After a big win over top team Herford, you lost 94-86 against Hagen Haspe. How much did this loss hurt?

It didn’t make sense to me because we beat them a few days earlier but after a good break we are back focused and ready for the second half of the season.

Take us a bit through the game. Did Grevenbroich have chances to win this game?

Yes we had plenty of chances but we didn’t seize the moment which will be the key for this half.

What was key in crunch-time for Hagen Haspe to gain the win?

We just didn’t get stops towards the end, too many mental mistakes on our end.

In basketball it is the little things that can decode a game. A few offensive rebounds more and possessions. How key were the little things tonight?

Yes, the little things and attention to detail is what we lacked in that game in order to get the win, but most definitely will bounce back in the end.

You had another big game with 28/5/7 stats. But those 6 turnovers must really be troubling you this week.

Yes it definitely did, I watched film a ton on that game to make sure those things don’t happen again.

Now you have a long break until January 8th. What will be your schedule. Will you go back to USA or be a gym rat in Germany?

Yes I will go back home for a few days to enjoy the holidays and see the family, also to reset mentally for the second half of the season.

You next play Bonn 2. What will be key to getting the win?

Attention to detail. Less turnovers and more stops down the stretch and with that we will be fine for more wins to come.

What is your favorite Christmas movie?
My favorite Christmas movies are home alone and the grinch.

Thanks John for the chat.

Jeremy Ingram (183-G-91, college: AAMU) is a 183cm point guard from Alabama playing his sixth professional season and second season with SG Mannheim (Regionalliga). He has played in Germany his whole career with teams like Speyer, TV Idstein and VFL Bensheim. Currently he is leading the whole German Regionalliga in scoring averaging an incredible 34,5ppg, 4,8rpg, 3,1apg and 3,0spg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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


I’m playing in Mannheim this season and I’m doing great, individually. As long as I’m playing the game I love I’m happy.

It has been more than a year since we last spoke. How have you experienced COVID-19 in the last year? How tough was it for your season abruptly ending ?

I lost a contract for a top league team in another country because of Covid ending the season, so I think that was the toughest thing about covid for me because that was kind of the Big Break I was looking for. I still struggle mentally for the missed opportunity, but I got faith I will get another good opportunity.

How did you stay active in the last year? Did the grind and your will to improve explode through the roof?

I stayed active even when all the gyms were closed because I have connections with a lot of people in my area of Germany. So there were only a few gyms open during covid and I had access to them so since Covid closed down everything, the only thing I could do was get in the gym and work on my game.

Are you afraid that COVID could end your season again? Currently the numbers are at it’s highest in Germany and lock downs could be possible again.

I mean of course I’m afraid because basketball is how I get paid and make money so I never like when covid ends our season.

You are leading the Regionalliga averaging an incredible 33,0ppg. How tough is it scoring at ease and being a top player but having a losing record?

I just look at the situation as all the work I’m putting in this season is going to make me only better and stronger as a player for the next season. But I’m still routing and pushing for my teammates to bounce back and get this thing rolling again like we did before we started this losing streak.

Your playing in Mannheim again. How nice is it going back to the place where you played your second professional season?

I love the organization and the organization loves me and that is always important. I know they appreciate the big contribution from me that led us to a championship and I appreciate them giving me the chance.

Mannheim began great with a 3 game winning streak, but since have had a 7 game losing streak. What have been the biggest reasons for this losing streak?

Well, as the on court leader of the team I take a lot of responsibility for this . I try to do everything I can for my team to be successful but things just haven’t been working out as of late. But a lack of full team practices is also a major factor because everyone has regular jobs besides basketball so it is hard for the whole team to be at all the practices.

How much did the tight loses against Reutlingen and Stuttgart hurt? Is Mannheim better than it’s record shows?

It hurts the most because these are 2 of the top teams in our league at the time and we barely lose because of a bad turnover or missed wide open shots late in the game. We always are beating these good teams and we always can never keep the lead to close in the game so I think we are a pretty decent team, we just need to find better ways to keep these big leads that we have.

What has it been like being reunited with Polish veteran Slawomir Klocek? Is he a role model for you? Do you still want to be playing at age 36?

I honestly love playing with him and against him in practice. He is 1 of the more skilled players I have played with since I’ve been in Germany and also 1 of the strongest. That’s definitely my guy , even when he is yelling at me for some of the shots I take.

How vital has it been having another massive scoring option like German Alexander Kuhn?

Without him, the team would have severe offensive problems. Alex is 1 of the best pure shooters I ever played with. Start of the season me and Alex together scored more points than the other team and won the game so that tells you how significant he is to our team , not just points but also Rebounding.

Your playing your best season as a professional. Are you in your prime now?

I say i am in my prime , but I know I can get even better with my work ethic so I will continue to Grind so I can keep improving.

What do you credit your exceptional play to? Just more hard work than usual?

Well with my age I’m becoming a smarter scorer and I’m learning my spots on the court, and I’m always trying to improve while others are asleep and content with their game, I’m out trying to be great.

How tough was it exploding for 48 points against Ludwigsburg, but losing by 38 points? Is a loss like that more on your mind than how you played?

Well , our 2nd leading scorer didn’t play that game and they brought all their professional players down to play against us. So I take pride in those 48 points because they double teamed and triple teamed me that whole game even with their pro players and they still couldn’t stop me so that’s definitely a hard earned 48.

There are a lot of many other good players in the Regionalliga. Do you keep tabs on them and watch what they are doing?

I am cool and friends with a few Americans in our league . And I communicate with other teams American players after these games just to meet new people.I’m sure all of us American players in this league keep up with how each other is playing.

You need no help in the scoring department. On what other area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to get better?

Well I always want to be an even better defender. I think I am a pretty decent perimeter defender but of course there is always room for improvement.

How big is your hunger to keep moving up the basketball ladder. With your current great play, are you already looking to next year and moving up to a higher league?

There is nothing else more important to me right now than to get back everything I feel the game of basketball owes me. I deserve to be playing in a top league somewhere and that’s where 100% of my focus is right now.

Do you feel like Scottie Pippen is hurting his own legacy with his critical words about his teammate Michael Jordan?

I mean Pippen has his own opinions and outlook on that situation. So I don’t judge him because you never know his side of the story because we all focus on Jordan. But I think whatever it is he tripping about, he should find a better way to express it.

Do you feel like Anthony Davis is underperforming for the Lakers? Shouldn’t he make the next step in his play? Is he a top 5 NBA player now?

I think injuries maybe a major factor on his performance but I was disappointed in him last season when Lebron got hurt and Davis couldn’t carry his team as he should. So I’ve been disappointed in AD.

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

I didn’t think it was horrible but I do think the storyline was all over the place and maybe they rushed a few things. Had a couple funny moments but they could have did better with the storyline definitely.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

It was a usual post game moment for me in Basketball City Mainhatten as I motioned Konstantin Schubert (200-SF-98) over to me for an interview. But he didn’t come right away. He wanted to greet his fan club. There had been about 15 family and friends at the game. There was a good reason why they were there. I’m the type of guy that usually likes to talk to one player of the Skyliners after games and usually it’s the same guy during the season as in the past I have enjoyed having guys like Phil Scrubb, Jason Clark or Quantez Robertson dissect basketball with me. With farm team Fraport Skyliners Juniors, I have mostly practiced the same procedure usually talking to one player in the past and usually the American whoever was on the team that season. Since this season there is no American, I decided to mostly talk with the charming German young man Konstantin Schubert who never denied an interview with me. On this Saturday evening a week before Christmas 2021, everything seemed normal to me, but it really wasn’t for Konstantin Schubert. He had just produced another superb game with 13 points and 14 boards (the second most rebounds in his career) in a blowout win against top team Dresden. As always he was flashing that million dollar smile that he has and then shock struck me when he said ‘this was my last game’. My first thought was why? This guy is only 23 years old and not even near his prime yet. It didn’t dawn to me right away, but that massive surprise moment I received reminded me of when Boris Becker told Pete Sampras after losing to him for the third straight time at Wimbledon in 1997 that that would be his last Wimbledon. Becker actually would play Wimbledon one more time in 1999 losing to Australian Patrick Rafter in the fourth round and then retire. I had always known that the German basketball player was a student so at second thought for him possibly making that next step and taking a possible new challenge off the court now didn’t seem strange to me. He decided to continue his masters in Oslo, Norway. He already knew some of the professors and they really wanted him to come. ‘It provides me with a unique opportunity to live in a new country that I never been in before. It is a step out of my comfort zone and will improve me as a human being but also help me with my studies’, stressed Konstantin Schubert.

The forward who isn’t much of a movie freak, but remembers ‘Going in style’ as the last movie that he watched had been juggling basketball and school for years and the decision to leave the Fraport Skyliners organization where he had been a part of for 8 years wasn’t easy. ‘It was a very tough decision! Especially since I’ m currently playing my best season of my career. I wasn’t expecting to get the great opportunity to go to Oslo but it is a huge opportunity to prepare me for my time after Basketball. It was definitely challenging to combine studies and basketball, especially as you miss out on a lot of free time. I was able to come up with schedules to complete both basketball and studies. I was always prepared and mentally ready for the next task since I hadn’t had the chance to relax and lay down. But it provided me with the opportunity to become a good basketball player and also have a good career after basketball’, commented Konstantin Schubert. He only played 7 easyCredit BBL games and I could understand that he wanted a new challenge and get a real job in the real world that would pay him a lot better than a Pro B salary, but that didn’t even figure into his decision. ‘To be honest, I don’t think that this would have changed anything about my studies. Since I already started my studies when I was still playing in NBBL and only 18 years old. I always wanted to finish my studies and that was always my priority’, stated Konstantin Schubert. He also had the luxury of being around so many great people in the organization and also had teammates who were juggling school and basketball. People like Tim Oldenburg who like Schubert also had to make the decision to choose basketball or a normal job decided to become a police man. ‘Tim is one of my favorite team teammates of all time. I was really young back in the days when Tim was my teammate, but he was kind of a role model how he managed to do both his career next to basketball and basketball. For him personally going into the police and for me to do my studies. So, he showed me kind of the path that there’s a way to combine basketball and studies. I didn’t ask him with this decision, but I think he influenced me early on with how he acted and how he wanted to have both basketball and the career after basketball’, remembered Konstantin Schubert. I had the feeling all through the interview that he still isn’t ruling out coming back to basketball one day, but how else should he feel when he played the game he loves so much for his whole young life. But then again when push comes to shove, he most likely will turn his back on basketball. ‘I’m not sure what will happen when I graduate but I can say that it could be an option. I’m not willing to rule out any possibility but my step into the business world will come sooner than later’, warned Konstantin Schubert.

Konstantin Schubert who lists ex NBA player Nick Johnson as his toughest opponent in his basketball career was born and raised in Frankfurt, Germany and began his basketball career with BC New-Isenburg where he played a few seasons before coming to the Fraport Skyliners. It was only a matter of time before he would land in the Fraport Skyliners organization. As the famous American country singer Willie Nelson would say ‘The Fraport Skyliners were always on my mind’, said Konstantin Schubert. As a child, he was able to experience the Fraport arena as he had season tickets and visited every game. After the game he would race down to the court to take pictures with his idols and talk to them. ‘I always wanted to be play for them and one day be able to play in the Arena and take pictures with the fans after the games. And to be able to realize that dream, which I had since I was 10 years old is one of the biggest achievements, I made in my life this far’, remembered Konstantin Schubert. Like every little boy, he had his favorite players and he even had the luxury to later call one of them his teammate. ‘First, I must name Pascal Roller, as he was such a great player. Another Point Guard which I really liked was Dashaun Wood. Even though he was only in Frankfurt for one season, it was simply amazing to watch him play. And then it comes full circle again as you can’t talk about the Fraport Skyliners without mentioning Tez. To be able to share the court with him was a really nice moment for me’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. He began his career in Frankfurt with their youth team Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners and made his professional debut in the 2014-2015 season at the age of 16 with the Fraport Skyliners Juniors (Pro B) near the end of the season during the playoffs against the Rostock SeaWolves. He didn’t score in the first game playing 20 minutes, but in his second game, he demonstrated the talent that he had scoring 8 points in 15 minutes in the brutal 102-81 Loss. It was more than 6 years ago, but he remembers it as if it was yesterday. ‘I was really, really nervous! I knew when we made the long trip to Rostock that I probably will play but I didn’t know that it would be that much. And to be able to score quickly. Eight points in only 15 minutes was remarkable for me and I think it helped me a lot to be more confident in myself that I’m able to play at the age of 16 in the Pro B and I’m able to compete and that helped me a lot also in the summer then to improve my game and to be confident enough to say yeah, I can play at that level for sure I can’, remembered Konstantin Schubert.

The high flying forward who loves to run transition like a Quantez Robertson played his first full Pro B season in 2015-2016 averaging 14 minutes and 4,8ppg and 3,5rpg per game and right away set his mark in the first game of the season against Lich. In that game, he had to right away take responsibility at age 17 as the club had many sicknesses as a bug was going round. He stepped up playing 32 minutes and recorded his first double double of 12 points and 10 rebounds and added 2 steals and a block. A game like this was unbelievably important for his self-confidence. ‘It was amazing. It helped me to set a good tone for the season and show that I ‘m capable to become a good player for this team’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. He was also so very lucky having so many teammates that were so vital for his early development. Teammates like Niklas Kiel, Garai Zeeb, Stefan Ilzhoefer and Max Merz all became easyCredit BBL players and he couldn’t have found better mentors and young men helping him grow on and off the court. ‘I think all of them had a big influence on me. But if I have to pick somebody, it probably is Niklas or Garai. Because I spent the most time with them because they were my age. And especially with Niklas I worked a lot with because we played a similar position. He was so good, and I learned so much from him. But it was also amazing to share the court with Stefan and Max. With Max I remember one evening sitting in a hotel in Tuebingen around Christmas time. And we decided to go downstairs into the lobby and got a table there and started working on our study stuff. How he managed to transition from the basketball court into the business world is amazing to me and he is definitely a role model to me. In the end I’m just proud to have played with those guys’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. But it wasn’t only the young German teammates that had a massive impact on his game, but there was also the elder gentleman Marius Nolte. I had to gulp when I read that it has been more than 5 years since Marius Nolte played his last Pro B game and retired. I guess I’m getting old and time really does fly. You couldn’t ask for a better guy to have as a teammate than Marius Nolte. I conducted my first interview with him in 2006 in Paderborn and like Konstantin will always have fond memories of the big man. ‘Marius is a great guy. His game was so much about hustle. He just wanted it more than his opponents and he was willing to do the dirty work. He always wants to win. If it’s scrimmage in practice or a real game he always wanted to win. I was able to share the court with him at his last game in the Pro B Final in Urspring. He had an amazing career, and he was one of those guys I took pictures with when I was a kid with a season ticket. I still have a photo of him and myself when I was 14 years old or even younger’, said Konstantin Schubert. He scored in double figures in 4 games that season including hitting Saarlouis for 16 points in a win.

The 203cm forward who lists Cosmo Gruehn, Michael Fuss, Alvin Onyia, Mike Morrison, and Tim Oldenburg as his best five teammates of all-time arrived in the 2016-2017 season which would be a huge season in his career. He upped his status in the Pro B team, was a central player on the NBBL (U-19) team where he became an allstar and played together with future NBA player Isaac Bonga and Cosmo Gruehn and he would play his first easyCredit BBL game against top team FC Bayern Munich. ‘ That was kind of my breakout season. I always had the goal in mind to be an NBBL allstar. My first BBL game was also a big dream come through and was also on my bucket list. So, I had a lot of checks on my bucket list in that year. The nervousness against FC Bayern Munich was huge. I mean, we were down big. So, I mentally prepared myself that there could be an opportunity arising for me to get some minutes and to get my first BBL minutes. I remember most about that game that AJ English had a crazy fourth quarter crazy. I think he scored 22 points just in the fourth. He also passed me the ball for my three-point attempt and I remember after the game when we were going to the hotel and getting food, he was like, damn Konsti I was looking for you’, smiled Konstantin Schubert. There aren’t many young German players that have had the opportunity to share the court on a daily basis and hang out with a future NBA player the way he did with Isaac Bonga. I remember at times in the 2016-2017 season checking the NBA mock drafts and seeing Bonga second to the great Luka Doncic from European players. Schubert was able to experience from close hand how Bonga dealt with all the hoopla and commotion. ‘I remember that time pretty well. I remember personally when the Lakers, GM Rob Pelinka was in the Fraport arena, and we were sitting in the VIP lounge after the game, and he was asking me how Isaac is off the court and how he’s as a human being. It was amazing to see how Isaac responded to all the pressure. I mean, he just continued playing and he didn’t mind at all what other guys were saying how many scouts were there at practice etc. He was just focusing to become a better player. I’m still in contact with him to this point, and it’s just amazing how well he has evolved over the time and it’s always nice to see him when he’s back in Frankfurt’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. If you didn’t know Isaac Bonga personally then you didn’t know how he was off the court. On the court he seemed so focused. I think I saw him smile three times during that season, but off the court he was a different person. ‘I think he is more of a quiet guy in basketball settings. He is just focusing on the basketball court because he’s really determined to win. But if he is with his teammates and friends, he is also a guy who starts singing and dancing. So, he’s really outgoing. I still have a good relationship with him to this point’, expressed Konstantin Schubert. In the Pro B he heightened his minutes to 21 minutes and increased his stats to 7,1ppg, 4,5rpg and 1,9apg. He scored in double figures in seven games including 16 points apiece against FC Bayern Munich and Wurzburg.

The highlight of his career was in 2017-2018 as he became a easyCredit BBL player and had his second best Pro B season. He played 6 BBL games that season scoring his only BBL bucket against Bayreuth and in the Pro B he increased his minutes to 23 and averaged 8,3ppg, 4,1rpg and 1,8apg. ‘This season was the next step for me personally. I was able to be full time BBL and I didn’t even practice once with the Pro B team. I just practiced with the BBL team and was at almost every game. Even though I only played in six games, I was there for every practice and for almost every game’, stated Konstantin Schubert. Even if he only scored 2 easyCredit BBL points, it is something that nobody will ever be able to take away from him. There are 1000’s of guys in Germany that would die to play in the BBL. He will never forget his lone basket against medi Bayreuth. ‘I actually have a clip of those two points stored at my phone, but I don’t look at it too much. But it’s in my back pocket and I will for sure, go back to it when it’s all said and done’, said Konstantin Schubert. In that game he played against the likes of Nate Linhart and Demon Brooks who became established pro’s overseas and Gabe York who recently signed with the Orlando Magic as he has benefited from COVID with so many NBA players being out. I personally always thought that he had a BBL body and could develop slowly into a solid BBL player. Head coach Gordon Herbert gave him a chance to play. ‘Konstantin is a great kid that has a tremendous work ethic and really good knowledge of the game. He was great for the Pro B and was always ready to help the BBL team when needed. It was a pleasure to work with him and I’m wishing him all the best going forward’, warned German national team coach Gordon Herbert. It was a shame that he wasn’t able to make a BBL career like other players. ‘ In the end it was my body since I was facing a lot of injuries problems during my career’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. In the Pro B he scored in double figures in 9 games that season and saved his best for last averaging 17,0ppg and 7,0rpg in the playoff series against Bochum which Frankfurt lost. He scored 21 and 18 points in the series and had some other good games dropping 18 points against Schwelm and 17 points against Wurzburg. ‘I remember that series well. The first game against Bochum is probably one of my top two games that I ever-played in. We were down by numbers, and nobody believed in us. To then go to overtime with a three-point buzzer beater from Michael Fuss and then win it in OT was a great feeling! And yeah, I played personally well, too, but I’m still a little upset that we lost that series’, commented Konstantin Schubert.

For the German who lists Michael Jordan, Dirk Nowitzki, Kobe Bryant, and Wilt Chamberlain on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore knows one of the worst things about being a professional athlete is having to deal with injuries. This was something that he couldn’t avoid. From 2018-2021, he suffered injuries and played only 24 pro B games. In 2020-2021, he played only one game against Erfurt registering 6 points and 6 rebounds, but suffered a metatarsal fracture in his foot ending his season. So did all the injury woes have an influence on him ending basketball now and going to Oslo for the next chapter in his life. ‘The injuries were really challenging! It was a long rehab and it was tough to continue to push to continue to get treatment, to work out, to keep me mentally prepared that there will be an opportunity arising at some point. And I’m so happy that I didn’t give up that I kept grinding and being able to play this season that well as I’m playing. Having almost career highs in rebounds and achieved a new career high in points. So, the hard work was worth it. My decision to go to Oslo was not about my injuries but sure maybe if I hadn’t had the injuries I would be in a different position right now and maybe would go a different way with my career’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. To go out on a high now is huge for the German because as he was having his bast season as a professional player. He finished 2021-2022 having played 13 games averaging 12,5ppg, 5,2rpg and 2,2apg. He scored 23 points back to back against Karlsruhe and Speyer and socred a career high 24 points in his last game an exciting 83-81 victory against FC Bayern Munich 2 Now one has to wonder if he will get second doubts about stopping to play and wonder what would have been had he continued to play? ‘I would actually say it is the other way around I’m really happy that I was able to come back after two devastating injuries and to be able to show everybody that I still got it. Oslo is the next step for me on my way to the business world and who knows what will happen next year’, said Konstantin Schubert. He also was very fortunate to have been able to play together with his brother Bennet Schubert. ‘It was always a goal to play together with my brother. In rehab it motivated me a lot to reach this goal and one of the main reasons why I wanted to continue to play. I’m really proud of how he has developed into a great player and I’m sure that in the future he will be even better’, warned Konstantin Schubert. Two guys that were so important in his basketball career were Niklas Kiel who had a huge influence on him when he was 16-17 years old and helped him improve and he took a lot from his game and of course German head coach Sebastian Gleim who currently is making waves with the Hakro Merlins. ‘If Sebastian wouldn’t have believed in me, I wouldn’t be in the position as I’m today. It’s as simple as that. I’m extremely grateful what he did for me! He took me under his wing and helped me develop early on coming out of JBBL. He believed in me and helped to improve my game so much. He worked a lot with me really long hours, individual workouts and he really believed that I could become a good player. He helped me grow on the basketball court but also off the basketball court. I’m still in contact with him and ask him for advice’, added Konstantin Schubert. ‘Konstantin Schubert is for me and my coaching career the best example for a young man and player that got the most out of his personal limit. He recognized this and never gave up. I really appreciated coaching him’, stated Sebastian Gleim.

Konstantin Schubert played 8 years in the Fraport Skyliners organization and it was his family. He was a huge part of the youth program at a time where the organization was known as having the best youth program in Germany. He then became one of the key German players year for year in the Pro B. Not only did he grow on the court, but he also developed from a young teenager into a man. He will never forget this experience. ‘I grew from a boy into a man being a Fraport Skyliner and I really embraced the role to be the local guy from Frankfurt. Like mentioned before I was a fan of the team growing up and I will continue to be a fan for the rest of my life. I will stay in contact and I’m grateful for all the great people I have met during my 8 years in the organization! Especially I want to mention Sid at this point and thank him for all the help during the years’, stressed Konstantin Schubert. I will always have very fond memories of Konstantin Schubert. I like to get excited when Fraport Skyliners make big plays and baskets during my play by play commentary and have to admit, I’m a bit sad that I first came up with my special nickname Konstantin ‘The High Flyer’ Schubert nickname in this season. I really would have enjoyed yelling it more during big three’s or dunks. For me he was a player that was a modern day power forward. A guy that could bang inside and a lot of times would fight and scoop down rebounds over two or three defenders stronger than him, but his wit and anticipation got him the ball, but he also never was shy to step outside and bang home a three pointer. His defense and passing was underrated and probably my favorite part of his game was when he sprinted down the court on transition like a deer and finished the fast break with a lethal dunk. He didn’t look like a basketball player as he was very clean cut and looked more like a young professor or a young Charlie Sheen with blond hair form the movie Wall Street. I covered him for 8 years and it was a pleasure. I’m very happy that he was able to notice my work over the years. ‘For me you are a big part of my journey! You were there at almost every game, and I enjoyed our interviews after the games a lot! I will always remember how much energy and passion you gave while commentating the games. You knew every stat even when a player was new in the league. I’m thankful for the great articles and will remember you as a great guy who loves the game and puts a lot of effort to promote how great it is’, said Konstantin Schubert. I’m sure that he will go his way and be successful in the professional world off the court. All the best Konsti and please don’t forget basketball. You will be missed.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, 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

Congrats Stanley on a huge 88-84 win against the Artland Dragons. How good does it feel starting off 2022 with a win?


It feels pretty nice to start the new year off with a win. A road win, as we know it’s not easy to win let alone on the road so I’m glad we were able to pull this one out!

Another crunch-time win for PS Karlsruhe. Are you guys slowly enjoying winning these nail bitters?

Well of course we’d like to win a game much more comfortable but we’ll take win however it comes. This close games shows our grit, and can help us in ways. However, we still have to build better habits and continue to improve.

The first half was very tight as the Artland Dragons led 45-44. Why couldn’t any team get away form the other?

It was back and forth in first half, neither team really took a step back. As we know, the game is 40 minutes, can’t win a game at the half so we knew we had our work cut out for us. We remained composed and was able to win the second half and get the win.

PS Karlsruhe took control in the third continuing to execute well on offense and had their best quarter on defense. What adjustments did the team make?

We were able to get into a nice rhythm, we hit some shots which helped us stay right there in striking distance. Our defense still wasn’t great but our offense held on somewhat.

How good did it feel making a basket and free throws in the last 12 seconds? How much of in attack mode are you in moments like that?

Our team needed a basket to take the lead, in those moments I have the trust of my teammates and coaching staff, so I just tried to make a play.

Was having the better nerves and possible more depth important factors at the end for pulling out the win?

I think just being in those situations in prior games, we gained some experience from those previous matches and stayed composed. I think that was an important factor.

Talk a little about what it was playing against veteran Demetrius Ward and young kid Zach Ensminger? What was toughest in containing them?

Both two good players that plays well for their team. Ward is a more bigger body that understands his spots on the floor and where he’s effective at. Ensminger had decent talent and some good skills.

You had another solid game of 19/4/8. What do you want to achieve most with your personal game in 2022?

I just want to continue to develop all aspects of my game. That’s all.

The next game is against Itzehoe. What will be key to extending the winning streak to 7 games?

We have a make up game against Bremerhaven Thursday the 6th. Another big test for our group, we have to prepare well throughout the week and be ready for a game.

How did you experience going into 2022? Did you notice that there was more fireworks than last year? It seems like people just are getting sick of all the restrictions.

I can’t really say honestly, I was asleep through the initial welcoming into the new year, both this year and last year so I can’t really say. Just blessed to be able to see the start of another new year!

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Osasumwen Osaghae (206-F-98, college: FIU) is a 23 year old 206cm forward from Miami playing his second professional season and first in Germany with the MLP Academics. Last season as a rookie he played with Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 17 games averaging 13.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2spg, Blocks-2 (2.0bpg), FGP: 62.1%, FT: 70.8%. He began his basketball career at Southridge High School and then played at Florida International University (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing 91 8.3ppg, 8.5rpg, 3.1bpg, FGP: 59.9%, FT: 60.4% and 12.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.6bpg, FGP: 69.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 68.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Osasu for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed are you to be able to play the game you love considering that basketball life wasn’t that easy in high school and the first few years

I feel extremely blessed. I’m grateful for where I am especially considering my path to here was never straightforward

Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg and have been out since the start of November. How tough is it at the moment trying to get back from an injury? You have had experience with injuries having had a bone contusion?

it’s very tough but I’m trying to deal with us as best as I can and focus on what’s important. Controlling what I can control. I’ve had injuries in the past but nothing maybe as serious as this one

Your averaging 5,0ppg and 5,0rpg until your injury hit. How big of an adjustment has it been coming from the Finish league to the easyCredit BBL one of the top leagues in Europe?

I think there’s definitely a difference, unfortunately I haven’t played many games so I’ve yet to catch a rhythm yet but having watched a lot of games I’m learning and think adjusting shouldn’t be a problem

The team had a great start winning 4 of 5 games and since have a very long losing streak. Did teams figure you out better? You did lose a few close games as well.

I think teams definitely started paying more attention to us but as well as that maybe we could also have done some things better, I think we must just keep working and keep our head down

What kind of an experience has it been playing for head coach Frenki Ignatovic? He is one of those guys that paid his dues in the second division and helped lead the team into the first division. How have you profited from his coaching philosophy?

it’s great working with him. First and foremost as a man he’s a great guy nice and always there to help with anything. I’m learning a lot and I think he’s a great coach who is very passionate and works hard to get here and deserves it 100%

What kind of an experience has it been playing with inside/out player Brekkot Chapman? How do you remember the battles with him in practice before you got injured?

It’s great playing with him. The game comes easy to him and he’s a great player for us. Very competitive before I got injured but great teamate always.

You’re a 206cm forward that can score, rebound and block shots. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

The player I’ve maybe gotten the most comparisons to in college was maybe Clint Capela so maybe I will say him but personally I don’t know if I’m similar to anyone very much

What other strengths does your game incorporate besides scoring rebounding and shot blocking?

I think I’m very instinctual and just on court awareness. And I’m constantly working to improve other areas of my game.

You’re an incredible shot blocker averaging 3 a game in your last 2 seasons in the NCAA. What is your secret to shot blocking? Do you watch a lot of film on players?

I do watch a good amount of film. I think film and instincts have been my greatest help but maybe be not necessarily film on others specifically. More so just basketball in general or watching other great shot blockers

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?

Not to be cliche but everything. Currently I’m focused on just getting back healthy though

You played your rookie season with Karhu Kauhajoki (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 13.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2spg, Blocks-2 (2.0bpg), FGP: 62.1%, FT: 70.8%. What do you remember being your wake upcall to being overseas where you knew that you were very far away from home?

I think honestly the first day when I realized how cold it was compared to Miami. It took some time to get settled.

You lost a tough 5 games finals series to Vilpas. How important do you feel was experiencing this as a rookie for your competitive nature?

I think everything happens for a reason and I learned a lot during that series on the court and off of it.

How important was teammate Anthony Hilliard for you as a rookie? Was he like a mentor for you?

He was great and would always offer advice to me and other young guys. Definitely was someone we looked to in terms of professionalism.

You played at Florida International university. How tough were the first two years where you didn’t play much. What did you learn about yourself in that time and what discipline means?

I learned how to be patient and also developed an edge because I wasn’t content with my role. It was tough but made me who I am today.

In your last two years in the NCAA you averaged 8.3ppg, 8.5rpg, 3.1bpg, FGP: 59.9%, FT: 60.4% and 12.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.6bpg, FGP: 69.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 68.8%. How do you feel did your game grow most in your last two years?

I think my last two years my confidence was The biggest factor and helped me play freely and express myself on the court.

You reached the NCAA tournament in 2019 beating Texas State and losing to Green Bay. What was your fondest memory being part of the big dance?

The memories and challenges we had to overcome to get there

You had 8 blocks as a senior against Ave Maria and Stetson. Have you ever thought about recording a triple double with points, rebounds and blocks?

Yes honestly but it’s not my main focus. It would be great though

How did head coach Jeremy Ballard groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He was great with me. Was like a mentor figure. Broke down the game to me better than I ever had it done before so I’m forever grateful to him

Who won a one on one in practice you or Dimon Carrigan?

Honestly we’ve never even played 1 on 1 but if we did he knows the answer.

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

Hard to say but maybe Reggie Perry or Chris Silva

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Antonio Daye
Devon Andrews
Cam Corcoran
Eric Lockett
Dimon Carrigan

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

Lebron
Giannis Antetokounpo
Shaq

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

Personally I never watched Jordan so I have to say Lebron

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

Unfortunately I haven’t but I’ve heard that it was bad.

Thanks Osasu for the chat.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright (176-PG-95, college: Arizona) is a 26 year old 176cm point guard from Los Angeles, California playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played at the University of Arizona (NCAA) from 2014-2018 reaching the NCAA Elite 8 and two NCAA Sweet 16’sand winning three Pac 12 tournaments. He played his rookie season for the G-League team Westchester Knicks and then came overseas playing for the Cheshire Phoenix (United Kingdom-BBL) and last season for the Saint-Quentin Basket-Ball (France-ProB) playing 33 games averaging 15.6ppg, 3.2rpg, Assists-1 (7.1apg), Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 77.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 81-76 loss on the road against the Hakro Merlins

A tough 81-76 loss last night to top team Telekom Baskets Bonn. How tough was the bus ride home? What were your main thoughts concerning that loss?

It wasn’t that tough. I didn’t have a great taste in my mouth. Losing yesterday in Crailsheim was an unusual feeling, because we hadn’t lost in two months. Now we have to get back to work and focus on getting better. It is a long season and you can’t get down.

The magical Bonn 9 game losing streak was stopped. How much of a blessing in disguise is it sometimes for having wining streaks lost? You have always told me that the club prides itself on getting better each new day no matter what?

When your winning you don’t want to get complacent. I think that during a winning streak, you can lose sight of still being able to improve and get better. We know that we are a good team and know that we still have room for improvement. We can tell now that teams are focusing on us more now and wanting to take our strengths away. We need to be more diligent in our work.

After 10 minutes of play the Telekom Baskets Bonn had the commanding 26-9 lead. Did that quick lead and commanding 17-2 run at the end of the first quarter surprise you a bit?

A little bit. We started well, were physical, attacked and some balls did go our way. It was very loud in the arena and the good start helped, but we need to play well for 40 minutes and not just 18 minutes. Hat’s off to them. They never wavered. They took our punches and countered.

In the second quarter Crailsheim stepped up the offense as if it was nothing scoring 28 points, but were still down by 10 points at the break. Was it the sheer aggressiveness of TJ Shorts that picked up the Merlins offense in the second quarter?

I think that it was a multiple of things. We weren’t able to contain Shorts as they played off his energy and their ball movement was very good. They really move the ball well. Shorts does a good job of spraying the ball around and Stuckey hits the shots. We were too careless with the ball and didn’t value our possesses. We had 17 turnovers. It is hard to win against a team like that when you play like that.

The Hakro Merlins continued to get better allowing only 11 points in the third quarter to dead lock the contest. Was it more their defense or the Bonn offense not executing the way it should have?

I thought it was both. Credit to them for getting us out of our rhythm. They were very aggressive and played physical. Their coach did a good job of giving us different looks on defense. We couldn’t match their intensity in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter it was 0-0. The game was a back and forth battle. Does one notice how intensive the game is despite it not having that sold out arena atmosphere?

It was a good atmosphere. Their gym isn’t that big. It felt very loud and many people were there.

The Merlins stepped up the defense in crunch-time. What do you feel was key for the opponent being able to grind it out?

They took away our advantages, got in the paint and did bing bing finding their open shooters. Plus my turnovers helped it be a combination of the two. They were really physical and their big man was always jumping around and got the ball from me. Switching the defense on us was a turning point.

Do you feel like the Merlins had an edge knowing how Tuomas Iisalo works as a coach?
He built the house there and it is a compliment to the work he put in. Teams like to emulate good teams. I think he took a page from him. You see how good defense they play. I would have liked to have gotten a win for our coach.

What is it in general like playing against TJ Shorts? Are you and him the two fastest players in the easyCredit BBL?

I know that he is the fastest that I have ever played against. I can’t ever remembering playing against a player as fast as him. I think another guy that is up there with us is Justin Robinson. He has a nice burst. You can’t guard him 1-1. You need multiple guys on him. He puts so much pressure on you.

Right now you and him are 1-2 in MVP voting If I chose. Do you follow how he is doing on a week to week basis?

I follow the league and am aware what he does. I think that there is mutual respect among us. We both are in the same position in that we try to do our job and lead our team. I think that we will both be there at the end of the season. It was fun playing against him and next time it will be pay back time.

Who would win a one on one on a neutral court you or TJ Shorts?

I would say that it would be a close game depending who got the ball first. I will take myself and I’m sure he would do the same. It would be fun. If one gets a step on the other then it would be hard to stop

The Telekom Baskets Bonn have some huge games coming up. Do you feel like despite the loss that the team mentality is strong enough to wipe off your mouths and start a new winning streak?

Absolutely. Win or lose there is never a drop in our mentality. In our nine game winning streak, there wasn’t a day we took it easy. We are the same way each day. I’m kind of glad we lost, because we can get the rest of the BS out of the way and focus on the next game. It is exciting as we still have a full season and we still have a big gap of time where we can improve.

Will the team character show in the next games how strong it is against teams like Hamburg, Bamberg and Munich?

We have no choice but to show our character. We respect our opponents and understand that anyone can make noise in this league. I think that we have done a good job this season not taking anyone for granted. I think that we can achieve another 9 game winning streak. We have to go game by game and always stay focused.

How excited are you to play against BBL legend Rickey Paulding again? In the first game you won a close 78-76 affair where you had 21 points. He is retiring after this season?

We went neck to neck with them. One more bounce and they could have won. I pay respect to his career. He is like a true hero. I only played against him once but that one time was an incredible battle. It will be fun to play against him again.

You continue to put up consistent stats and have really upped your playmaking in the last 3 games averaging 11 per game. Do you feel like Bonn is at it’s best when your scoring or being able to focus more on facilitating?

My natural being and best aspect of my game is clearly playmaking for others. When I am able to do that then I thrive. If you look at my career so far then playmaking has by far been my best asset. I got better at scoring overtime and can utilize it when I need to. My biggest challenge now is to take better care of the ball and value it more. I want to continue to get better as a playmaker.

How did you enjoy your first Christmas in Germany? Was it any different than in the other countries you were in the last years?

It was different because my mom visited me. I was able to relax and took in the city. Last season I was alone. It was good to have that family loving here. This was one of my favorite Christmas’s ever.

How was the whole New Year experience in Bonn? Were their any fireworks that you could enjoy or did the whole COVID feeling get in the way?

There were a lot of fireworks at 12. People were blasting fireworks all over the city. I have never really been the type of person that gets out. It didn’t matter if COVID ruined plans, because I’m always at home.

I recently read that some basketball expert said Lebron James is the best player ever and Michael Jordan the greatest of all-time. Does that finally end that long debate?

It is hard to compare them. I didn’t grow up on Jordan. I watched his highlights and know that he is a great player. I grew up on Lebron and he is my GOAT. The debate will never end. It depends on your taste. Everybody has their own GOAT.

Thanks Parker for the chat.

TJ Shorts (175-PG-97, college: UC Davis) is a 24 year old 175cm point guard from Tustin, California playing his third professional season and second in Germany and first with the Hakro Merlins. Last season with the Hamburg Towers he averaged 14.3ppg, 2.8rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), Steals-3 (1.7spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 71.8%. In his rookie season he played with with BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL) playing 12 FIBA Europe Cup games averaging 14.6ppg, 2.8rpg, Assists-4 (6.3apg), Steals-5 (2.0spg), FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 82.4%; and played 20 LatEstBL games averaging 11.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 5.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 63.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 75.6%. He began his basketball career at Tustin High School and then played two years at Saddleback JC (JUCO) He finished at the University of California – Davis (NCAA) playing 31 games averaging 14.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.5apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7% and in his senior year averaged 15.2ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 71.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after defeating top easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn 81-76.

Congrats on the big 81-76 win over top team Telekom Baskets Bonn. To how much % were the Hakro Merlins able to execute the game plan from head coach Sebastian Gleim?

I would say we executed the game plan of coach with the exception of the first quarter where we started off very slow. They beat us up pretty bad with the rebound. They are a very talented team and you won’t be able to stop everything. We did a good job controlling the game from the second quarter to the end.

After 10 minutes of play the Telekom Baskets Bonn had the commanding 26-9 lead. Did the Merlins stay out too long and New Years eve? You actually started ok but gave up a 17-2 run to end the first quarter
We knew coming in that they are a very good team. After it was 9-7, they punched us in the mouth and found a good rhythm. We did a good job not panicking or being flustered after that run. We got focused on finding a defensive rhythm and when we can do that then we can compete with anyone one.

In the second quarter you stepped up the offense as if it was nothing scoring 28 points, but were still down by 10 points at the break. Was it your sheer aggressiveness that picked up the Merlins offense in the second quarter?

Yes definitely. One of the keys was being aggressive. When we found our rhythm, we finally felt like we could dictate the game and we did. In the second quarter, we hit them first and didn’t let them hit us back. Once we got into our flow, we were able to change the mind set of the game.

What did head coach Sebastian Gleim tell you at the break? The team stepped up their defense allowing only 11 points.

He got on us at the break. He asked if we wanted to take our defensive task personal. We came into the third quarter with the mind set that we would make every bucket tough for Bonn. We made a collective effort and executed well on the defensive end.

In the fourth quarter it was tied and must of felt like 0-0. The game was a back and fourth battle. Does one notice how intensive the game is despite it not having that sold out arena atmosphere?

It has been tough with Covid. I think that we were allowed to have like 500 fans in the arena. It wasn’t as loud as the previous games, but our fans still did a great job helping us bring energy and being loud. I’m very thankful for the great support of our fans.

Terrell Harris stepped up big in crunch-time with two key three pointers. You made the assist on his last three that sealed the win. How glad are you that a guy like that is on your team?

I’m super glad to have him on our team. He is a guy with a lot of experience. He has played something like 6-7 years overseas. With the kind of situation that we were in, you can’t help but be grateful that you have a player like that. When he is in rhythm, he is a key asset for us in winning close games.

The Merlins stepped up the defense in crunch-time. Did you watch any extra film on Parker Jackson-Cartwright who had 5 turnovers.

We watched a lot of the team aspects of them on film and the things that they do. We also watched personal clips of him. We knew what he could do. He can change the game at all times. He was key in our scouting report. I thought that we did a good job on him.

What is it in general like playing against Parker Jackson-Cartwright? Are you and him the two fastest players in the easyCredit BBL?

Yes I would think that we are the two fastest in the league. Everybody wants to see us battle. Nobody backs down from the other. We bring competitiveness and spirit to the atmosphere. Neiter of us wants to let up for our teams. We had a small battle within the battle, but ultimately it was about the team.

Right now you and him are 1-2 in MVP voting if I had tochose. Do you follow how he is doing on a week to week basis?
I don’t necessarily follow what he does. If were off and Bonn is playing, I might watch them play. I’m really not focused on what he does, but more focused on my team.

Who would win a one on one on a neutral court you or Parker Jackson-Cartwright?

I would have to go with myself. I have confidence in what I do. It would be a fun battle, but I have to rock with myself.

The Hakro Merlins have a 4 game winning streak having beaten Munich, Bamberg, Chemnitz and Bonn. Are you guys playing your best basketball at the moment?

I think that at the moment, we are playing some very good basketball. I don’t know if it is actually our best this season. I think that as a whole we are heading in the right direction. We still need to work on a lot of things. We want to keep this rhythm going and try to continue the winning streak so we can secure a playoff spot.

How much credit does one have to give head coach Sebastian Gleim? One could say that he has taken over the system from Tuomas Iisalo, but isn’t that a bit unfair?

Coach deserves a lot of credit. He came in with a vision and brought new players. He has had success and you have to give him credit with how he scouted and his style. Hat’s off to him for what he has done. People could have said ‘Oh well Tuomas is gone and now the ship will sink, but coach came in and kept it going’.

This season your averaging 19/4/7 in 5 minutes more than last season. You have really raised your stats. How do you explain your rise in your game?

I think a lot is a testament of the work I put in last summer. I continue to elevate my game. I’m a key factor at a starting position and have a lot of more responsibility. Obviously with more minutes, it has helped me raise my stats. I have let my work show and have trusted the work that I have put in.

When you put up stats like that in the easyCredit BBL, how can you still raise your game more in the second half?

I have always had the mindset that I always want to get better. I have had to grind for everything in my career and had to get out of the mud. I’m never satisfied with my game and always want to elevate it. I can’t ever get in the mind set that I played well and am satisfied. I always want to grow and do more. That has always been my mind set.

You had 2 steals and 2 blocks against Bonn. Talk a little about the development of your defense in Gleim’s system?

I think the success to playing good defense starts with the work that we put in in the summer. We worked on becoming good 1-1 defenders. You have to be ready to defend against a good guard like Cartwright. You have to trust your work and understand that you can get beat on defense, but that you should always try to make as tough as possible for your opponent.

How did you enjoy your second Christmas in Germany? Was it any different than in the other countries you were in the last years?

Christmas was good. I spent it with teammates. We had a nice dinner. With COVID you had to be careful. It is tough for Americans being away from home, but with technology and the click of a button you can see family face to face. I connected with my family and opened gifts virtually

How was the whole New Year experience in Crailsheim? Were their any fire works that you could enjoy or did the whole COVID feeling get in the way?

A little bit of COVID was in the way. At midnight I saw fireworks. Even if you have to be careful with COVID, I was still able to enjoy it and am blessed to se a new year.

I recently read that some basketball expert said Lebron James is the best player ever and Michael Jordan the greatest of all-time. Does that finally end that long debate?

This debate will continue to go on for a long time. The old heads go with Jordan and the younger people with Lebron. I never saw Jordan play because I’m too young, but I have seen his videos on You Tube. For me Lebron is the GOAT. I don’t know if we have ever seen someone do what he can do especially at his age. I don’t think people really can comprehend what he can still do at his age. Both are top 2 to have ever touched the ball.

Thanks TJ for the chat.

The new home of the EPG Baskets the CGM arena so far has proven to be a very comfortable living room for the ambitious club who’s Pro A aspirations is no secret as they had won all three games against Hanau, Dresden and Erfurt since making it their new permanent home in November 2021. They wanted to keep their positive unbeaten streak alive, but had to confront the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos who are a dangerous team, but surprisingly only in 10th place with a disappointing 4-8 record. The club could easily be 8-4 and challenging Koblenz for the Pro B south title, but 4 brutal crunch-time loses had hindered them from being able to display a better record. For fans seeing German dino Johannes Lischka is always a treat as he belongs to the top power forwards in the league. On a untypical warm Sunday afternoon only a day after the new year the EPG Baskets Koblenz welcomed Giessen and as usual had their ups and downs, but were able to put together a dominant second half where their offense played team basketball and on defense they stepped up their aggressiveness allowing only 26 points propelling them to the 83-65 victory and remained unbeaten in their new living room the CGM arena. EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein was in good spirits after the win even if the team still hasn’t put together a complete effort for 40 minutes. ‘We dominated the second half and played 4 minutes of incredible basketball. The 10-0 run in the third quarter was the turning point of the game. We were more aggressive on defense and defended Lischka better and he got tired’, stressed Thomas Klein. Giessen played their typical game that centered around their trio of superstars with Lischka, Uhlemann and Scott and Koblenz controlled them better in the second half while the rest of the team combined only for 21 of the 65 points that simply wasn’t enough to combat a very potent Koblenz team in the second half. ‘We have skilled players among the young German players. I feel like they have to be more aggressive and just believe more in themselves. Our defense was lazy today. We have to play better defense’, stressed Giessen guard Montrael Scott.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz got off to a great start despite allowing ex easyCredit BBL player Johannes Lischka to get an easy basket where it looked like he just threw up a shot and knew that he would have to get the rebound. He made a put back and sometimes you have to wonder who is more of a walking bucket him or Koblenz forward Brian Butler (196-F-91). Koblenz then fired back with a lethal 8-0 run to take the 8-3 lead. In the run Koblenz got superb production from ex Bremerhaven guard Dominique Johnson who scored three buckets while ex Giessen guard Lucas Mayer nailed a 20 footer. Koblenz had established a sound offensive rhythm early on while the guests played uninspired on the offensive end. But Giessen didn’t lay back, but attacked Koblenz and got easy baskets form their top players Uhlemann and Scott. A big problem in the first half for the EPG Baskets Koblenz was their 1-1 defense and trying to defend drive by’s. They were allowing way too much room for these players to operate. Giessen received some baskets from Lischka and young German Tim Schneider to cut the Koblenz advantage to 14-11. Giessen really relied on their 1-1 play as there was hardly any set play or team ball to be seen. Koblenz got some big baskets down the stretch from ex Leverkusen guard Marvin Heckel and German Jacob Mampuya, but they were unable to shake Giessen. Giessen continued to rely on their trio of superstars and Montrael Scott closed out the first quarter. ‘We had ups and downs in the first quarter and had rhythm problems. We had easy turnovers and allowed Lischka to get the ball too much. We were lucky because he was missing a lot and Uhlemann wasn’t having a great day either’, stressed Thomas Klein.

In the second quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz played better leading by as much as 9 points, but they still were incapable of supplying the knock out punch. The EPG Baskets Came out of the gate strong carving out a 8-0 run to extend their lead to 29-20. In the lead the ambitious pro A team got valuable support from Brian Butler who secured a few offensive rebounds and made a put back while Marvin Heckel made a runner and Lucas Mayer made a lay in. The offense of Koblenz was more fluid and they got more easy looks while Giessen continued to have no real offensive plan except for their three stars to create for each other. The EPG Baskets Koblenz continued to control the game, but here and there they had turnovers as they rushed things on offense and continued to allow easy baskets on 1-1. Uhlemann hit a three pointer and the fierce quickness and athleticism of Montrael Scott allowed him to score twice to cut Koblenz’s lead to 34-28. Then Brian Buttler played his usual unstoppable game inside tip toeing between two defenders and Johnson made a lay in for the 38-29 lead. Down the stretch, Giessen got two more baskets from Lischka and Scott, but Koblenz got two clutch three’s from American Shembari Philipps as the second one was helped by a key Butler offensive rebound as Koblenz led 46-37. Giessen got some fortune as young German Sebastian Brach made a lay in at the buzzer as the EPG Baskets Koblenz led 46-39 at the break. ‘We had a good start, but then Scott got in rhythm. We had unnecessary turnovers. It could have been a three point game, but it was seven at half-time. It was a very close game’, stressed Thomas Klein.

In the third quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz opened up the game and would never trail below double figures again as versatile and potent offense began to wear down the guests and it also didn’t hurt that they stepped up their defense as well. Giessen began with a rapid 4-0 as Lischka drained free throws and young German Viktor Ziring used his quickness to sneak inside and score to cut the game down to 46-43. But then came the turning point of the game as the EPG Baskets Koblenz rattled off a bold 10-0 run to extend their lead to 56-43. In the run the home team got sufficient aid from five players as Mayer made a lay in, Johnson a free throw, Womalla a trey, Butler a lay in as his fancy moves made Giessen dizzy and Heckel connected on a runner. The Koblenz offense was powerful and with Giessen’s energy beginning to wane, the home team took full advantage of it. Koblenz was defending solid, but Giessen also had good looks where they couldn’t capitalize on. Koblenz had the momentum and didn’t let down on the offensive end getting more suitable support from Philipps who nailed a three pointer, Butler who made a runner and brutal two handed dunk and Heckel hit a three pointer at the buzzer. ‘I just played my game as usual. I didn’t have to use quite as much strength as usual as Giessen got tired’, stressed Brian Butler. Lischka continued to be a work horse in the paint, but only scored 4 points as he continued to miss key chances. The EPG Baskets Koblenz had the solid 66-50 advantage after 30 minutes. ‘We play our best basketball when we play our game. I have been saying that all season long. Giessen began to fall apart. They began to get tired. It was too much for the three players having to do everything’, stated Brian Butler. ‘We came out slow and flat. They took advantage of it. They have multiple weapons and it was difficult trying to come back’, added Montrael Scott.

In the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz put the nail on the coffin with a 12-3 run. The guests did close out the game strong with a 12-4 run, but their comeback was too little too late. In the Koblenz run, they were fortified by their team basketball as once again they threw around the scoring love as Johnson hit a runner, Butler made a lay in, Heckel dropped a 20 footer, Philipps executed on another trey, Womalla made a jumper and Johnson free throws as the game was as good as over as Koblenz led 79-53. The Koblenz offense was functioning like a clock work as the fatigue of the Giessen defense obviously helped them. With Koblenz up by 25 points, they let up in the last minutes which often happens to teams that are leading by much. Giessen closed out the game with a strong 12-4 run as Ziring spiced up his scoring stat line scoring 8 of his 10 points in tis span including two three pointers. Even if the EPG Baskets Koblenz’s defense allowed the run, fans did see two spectacular blocks from Mampuya and Saffer. ‘We played our game. We lost a little rhythm at the end. Now we have to learn to continue to give gas even when we are up by 20 points’, stated Brian Butler. ‘We didn’t stick together as a team. We had no direction and didn’t play as a team’, stressed Montrael Scott. The EPG Baskets Koblenz had five guys in double figures and were led by Brian Butler with 16 points. Shembari Philipps added 15 points and Dominique Johnson and Marvin Heckel added 13 points a piece while the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos were led by Johannes Lischka with 20 points and 13 rebounds and Montrael Scott and Tim Uhlemann added 12 points a piece. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 50% from the field and 32% from outside and had 45 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos shot 39% from the field and 16% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 11 turnovers.