COVID-19 can you finally go away Please! It has been more than a year since this damn Pandemic and so many people are dying and so many people are going crazy. The deaths are the worst but it also has been hurting so many aspects of life. Sport isn´t one of the most important things in life, but it can take you away from the hardships that so many are going through. The Fraport Skyliners have been pretty much gotten through the easyCredit BBL season ok in terms of players being tested and playing against clubs that had positive cases. But COVID-19 hit them last week while they were in full preparation for the tough game against top team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. Their game against them on the road and in Wurzburg this week were postponed to a later date. This can always happen, but how bitter now in the down stretch part of the season. Frankfurt already had a tight schedule until the end, but now will have to play two more games in a short amount of period. With shots not being attempted on the court this week for the Fraport Skyliners it was time for Fraport Skyliner living legend Quantez Robertson to sit back and just shoot the breeze.

                It is 3:00 Pm on a Tuesday afternoon as I reach Fraport Skyliner legend Quantez Robertson. He was just released from practice. It wasn´t a normal practice, but a Zoom team workout. He had heard about being quarantined last week and quickly was tested like every other player. He isn´t amused that the quarantine won´t end until April 21^st.He and his teammates were really motivated about playing Ludwigsburg and Wurzburg, because they wanted to seek revenge for the two loses that they suffered earlier in the season. So instead of sweating on the court, the Fraport Skyliners now have to sweat in their apartments as they prepare for MBC next week. Every player has a exercise bike and basketball. The players and coaches conduct various 30 minute training sessions over Zoom during the day. The workouts consist of different exercise so the guys will remain fit. Despite the tough times, Robertson still hasn´t lost his humor. After a hard workout he joked who would be able to do more pushups him or ex teammate and friend Mike Morrison. “The way me arms feel now, he would win by maybe 2 push ups. My record is around 30”, smiled ex Auburn(NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson.

                With no games and just boring ZOOM conferences every day, it was only fitting to sit back and just shoot the breeze with Quantez Robertson. With the Fraport Skyliners season momentarily on hold, it gives Tez more time to follow what the other teams are doing. For big power house team FC Bayern Munich and Alba Berlin it doesn´t seem like it will be a cake walk to the final especially when you have the tough feisty Patrick led team MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. The last loses by Munich and Berlin didn´t surprise Robertson as he sees Hamburg being able to make a run in the playoffs. “Munich may have underestimated Braunschweig. Plus Braunschweig have been playing well as of late. Hamburg is a pretty good defensive minded team and had Berlin´s number that day. Hamburg has really come together well this season. They play an aggressive style of play and create a lot of opportunities on offense. They get out well onto the open court and big man Kotsar runs the floor really well. Ludwigsburg looks like a very strong competitor for the title”, warned Quantez Robertson. He also will give his all on the defensive end to help Matt Mobley win the scoring race. He can begin in his first game back stopping current top scorer of MBC Michal Michalak next week. “I think that Matt can win the BBL scoring title. If he keeps scoring the ball he can. Michalak has been shooting the ball and getting to the rim well. I will do my best to make it hard for him and make him take contested shoots and alter his shots”, said Quantez Robertson. He has faced many difficult players on the floor and was hard pressed to name just one. “There are too many guys to choose from. I have played against point guards, small forwards and even power forwards this season”, expressed Quantez Robertson.

                Just before I started to talk to Quantez Robertson, a massive easyCredit BBL news flash was released as new rising team Crailsheim Merlins announced that they had signed current Fraport Skyliners coach Sebastian Gleim. A rumor had surfaced last week about this as now the speculation can start about who will return back. Gordon Herbert is out of the picture. “I won´t return to Frankfurt. I hope to stay in the VTB League”, said Gordon Herbert. It didn´t take long for me to come up with some names and Tez had no problem giving his two cents about the possible candidates. An interesting guy is ex national player Denis Wucherer. He played with the Skyliners back in the day and as a coach did a fantastic job in Giessen and in Wurzburg despite struggling this season. “I like the way he coaches. He is tough and aggressive on the sidelines. We can hear him on the sidelines when he is talking to his players. The guys enjoy playing for him”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Another interesting candidate could be German Thomas Paech. He was an assistant in Trier and Berlin, but failed in his first two head coaching gigs in Vechta and Bonn. Having Klaus Perwas as a mentor could be an interesting thought. He is a very energetic coach. I know the guys in Vechta and Bonn liked playing for him. He and Klaus could be a good fit”, added Quantez Robertson. A coach I would love to see in Frankfurt would be Mike Taylor. He has a lot of energy and is a players coach. “I remember him in Ulm my first two seasons in Germany. It would be nice to see him back in Germany. It would be nice to finish my career for him”, warned Quantez Robertson. Just when I wanted to move on to the next topic, Tez blurted out how about Tyrone Mccoy? He is another good choice. Currently an assistant in Ulm and has head coaching experience in Artland and Tuebingen. “He is an ex Skyliner. I remember him in Artland and Tuebingen. I remember breaking his steal record when we played Ulm. Now I could rub it in his face”, joked Quantez Robertson. Ânother great catch would be ex Skyliner Derrick Allen. At the moment with Rasta Vechta. “He would be an interesting choice”, stated Quantez Robertson.

                Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and current Polish national coach Mike Taylor in Ulm in 2008

Quantez Robertson has played with very many teammates over his long 12 year career so there really wasn´t a better time to shoot the breeze about them. You might think that Tez is only playing video games and on Netflix all day, but no he keeps excellent tabs about his ex teammates. He had no difficulty telling me Trae Holder was back in Germany. The ex Arizona State guard was a rookie with Frankfurt two years ago and recently latched on to Pro A team Nurnberg. “It didn´t surprise me that he scored 39 points last weekend. I knew he was capable of that. He showed it with us having some big games at home and on the road”, remembered Quantez Robertson. Two ex teammates that he will never forget are the German twin towers Joe Voigtmann and Danilo Barthel that have become Euroleague veterans playing this season in Russia and Turkey. “I think what would stick out the most today if I were to practice with them would be that Joe is more of a perimeter guy and Danilo more of an inside guy. Joe played the three a lot this season”, said Quantez Robertson. One player Tez saw develop from 15 to 18 was Isaac Bonga who is playing his third year in the NBA. After a tough rookie season with the Lakers, he has played with the Washington Wizards the last two seasons. Last season he was a solid role player that rebounded and played defense and often started. This season he has been downgraded hardly playing of getting DNP´s. Is he on thin ice with the Wizards? “No I don´t think so. The problem is that Westbrook and Beal hardly come out of the game. It is tough for him to get quality minutes. I think what he needs to do is put on more muscle mass so he can play the three. He is tall enough and moves well enough to guard small forwards. He would definitely see more playing time”, warned Quantez Robertson. Tez smiles when I mention ex teammate Aaron Dornekamp. He like Tez is a guy that always took care of his body and worked ahrd. That is why he is still playing at  ahigh level in the ACB in Spain with Tenerife. Tez knows who will play longer, but then becomes very diplomatic. “I will probably play longer, but you never know. But you know what. Maybe we will hang it up at the same time”, smiled Quantez Robertson.Miles

                The list goes on and on with ex teammates and another is American Ramon Galloway who balled with Tez in the 2013-2014 season. Galloway can be classified as a true basketball globe trotter. He has been almost every where in Europe, South America, Middle American and the middle east. He was very close to have made the Orlando Magic in 2016. In his 8 professional seasons, he has played for 18 organizations something that really made Tez think. “That is wild. Sometimes it is tough for a player to find just one home in a season. I have noticed that he has played very well where ever he has played. I can imagine that it is tough to move around so much. You need to have the right mind set. I have been very blessed to have been able to play for only one team”, stressed Quantez Robertson. Another ex teammate was Brady Heslip who never meta rim he didn´t like. The G-League most three pointers made in a game record holder recently retired after cutting his career short. Tez has very fond memories of the ex Baylor(NCAA) sniper. “He took some very long three pointers. I remember him making some long three´s in practice where he didn´t even look at the rim. When he was square and had a good look, it was a very good chance it was going in. He was the best Canadian shooter that I ever played with”, said Quantez Robertson. Tez also had the opportunity to have played a few months with Jon Leuer. It was in the 2010-2011 season as there was the NBA lockout. Leuer is another player that Tez outlived on the court as he retired a few years ago. “He was a cool guy. It took him a while to get used to the European play. But he soon showed how good he was . He was a great inside player that stretched the floor well. He and Jermario Davidson fed off each other well”, remembered Quantez Robertson. He also was teammates with AJ Moye who´s career was cut short because of a stroke. “I talk to AJ every few weeks. He worked at the Mamba sports academy. It was fun being teammates. In pre season we spent a lot of time in the gym. He was a real gym rat. You couldn´t keep him out of there”, remembered Quantez Robertson. Last but not least is Zach Peacock. The ex Georgia State(NCAA) great is another player that doesn´t want to stop playing. He is three years younger than Robertson, but a guy like Tez that has always been consistent. After playing in Germany in his first three seasons in Giessen, Bremerhaven and Frankfurt, he has found a home in France. He is in his eighth season in France and sixth season with JL Bourg Basket (France-Jeep ELITE ProA). He seems to have taken after Tez and found love for only one team. “He has been doing great. He is captain of the team. He has always been at the top of the scoring list. I haven´t talked to him ina few weeks, but I keep tabs on him”, said Quantez Robertson.

So with so much time in his apartment and his family in the States, Quantez Robertson has a lot of time. Netflix never gets old with him even in these tough times. “I have watched a whole lot of movies and TV Shows. I recently watched Archer. When I get tired of that I play video games and when I get tired of that, I switch back to movies and TV”, smiled Quantez Robertson. Last week Quantez Robertson had something to smile about as he had a rare occurrence. Just before The club announced that it was hit with COVID, Quantez Robertson couldn´t believe his eyes when he saw a picture of himself in an Argentine newspaper. For once I wasn´t doing the reporting, but was reading about myself. I have had a massive history with the country and a city that I often visited in my life and they wanted to know what had happened to me. The article talks a lot about my basketball career and after a Skyliner home game a few weeks ago against Chemnitz, I was wearing  a jersey of the Argentine cities football team and Quantez Robertson was hamming it up with me. It was only obvious that only Quantez Robertson could be in this picture a guy I have followed from his first practice in the BCM in 2009. “That was fun. I have never been or played in South America, but it was pretty cool to be able to say I made the newspaper there. It was awesome to see”, stated Quantez Robertson.

Dennis Mavin is a 30 year old 190cm guard form Gainsville, Florida that is playing his fifth professional season and first with ART Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProB) currently averaging 19,5ppg, 5,0rpg, 5,0apg and 1,6spg. He has scored 20 points or more 13 times this season. In 2018-2019 he split time with the ScanPlus Baskets Elchingen (Germany-ProB) playing 7 games averaging 10.3ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 40.7%, 3FGP: 16.7%, FT: 50.0%, in Dec.’18 moved to the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt 2nd team (Germany-ProB) playing 13 games averaging 14.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 64.8%. In the 2017-2018 season he played two BBL games with the Giessen 46ers and also 9 games for their farm team in the Pro B averaging 18,4ppg,3,6rpg and 2,6apg while shooting 36% from outside. He played his first two professional seasons in Morocco winning 2 titles. He played a total of 123 NCAA games for two schools with Florida Atlantic (NCAA) and  FIU (NCAA). In his senior year at  FIU (NCAA) he played 33 games averaging  17.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball earlier this season.

Thanks Dennis for taking some time to talk to germanhoops.com. Talk a little how tough the last 13 months were. COVID-19 hit in March 2020 and changed the world forever. How did experience the day to day back home ?

 Yeah Covid changed the world. it really changed my perspective on life and how anything can happen at any moment! My day to day was just trying to stay safe and keep everybody around me safe but still trying to find a way to get my work in.

What was the most challenging thing about life and finding ways to work on your fitness and game?

It was really a tough time for a while I ended up doing a lot of home workouts plus shooting in my backyard on my goal.

How do you feel did you benefit from COVID-19 and how did it make you stronger as a man in general?

 I think Covid made me really focus on myself and tap into different passions that I didn’t know I had.

After playing last with the Fraport Skyliners, you sat out last season. Talk a little about the last year before COVID-19 hit. Did you just stay in shape, work on your game and stand by the phone or did you also have a part time job?

I pretty much just stayed in shape! basketball is my life and my true passion I just waited until I got a call.

After not playing a professional season, do you feel like you improved in your game with the work you put in in the last year?

Yes I definitely improved my game I had a lot of time to watch film and study the game more.

Congrats on signing with Art Duesseldorf. How thankful are you that your agent Gerrit has such a good connection to the organization Art Duesseldorf?

Thank you ! Gerrit is my guy we have always been in touch since the start. I am very grateful to have him in my corner.

With what kind of feelings are you going into this Pro B season after sitting out last season. You had a good season with Frankfurt but does your competitive nature prompt you to feel like you have something to prove again?

 I will always have a competitive edge whenever I step on the court no matter what situation I’m in. My focus this year is to build something special with my team and try for a championship run.

 You’re a player that has proven time in and time out in Germany that you can play at the Pro B level. What kind of player will we see with Dennis Mavin this season?

The same hungry player that just want to get better everyday and win.

On what area´s of your game did you work on most this summer so you will be best prepared for your Pro B season in Germany?

Just having a total game not just scoring but rebounding ,assist and steals.

You played 2 games in the easyCredit BBL for Giessen back in the 2017-2018 season. Do you still feel like your on a good path to getting there despite having another year of Pro B?

I just have to keep working hard. Everybody´s path is different I’m just enjoying my journey at the moment.

How excited are you to be battling against former teammate Marco Porcher-Jimenz this season in the Pro B. In an interview we did years ago you said you would beat him every time in a one on one. Do you feel like you would still have his number today?

Marco is my guy and was also my roommate and college I’m definitely exciting to be battling him this year !

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Greg Gantt , Okaro White , Scottie Wilbekin , Dante Anderson .

What is your personal own NBA Mount Rushmore of players of today and yesterday?

Kevin Durant , King James , Kobe .

Where were you when you heard of the death of Kobe Bryant? How much did he influence you as a basketball player?

Kobe was everything for me growing up. I was home with my family and devastated like the rest of the world such a terrible accident.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Gone Girl

Thanks Dennis for the chat.

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-92, college: VWU) (190-SG-92, college: VWU) is a 29 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and DJ Woodmore team together each week to talk basketball

DJ thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. A tough 82-69 loss in Itzehoe to end your season. How tough was the drive home?

Drive home was pretty tough. Pretty quiet for the first half of the trip and just a lot of reflecting on the season for the second half. Doesn’t help that it was a six hour trip as well.

The season has ended for the EPG Baskets. What were your first thoughts when the buzzer sounded to end the fourth quarter?

‘Damn.’ Thats all I could really say. It was a tough game from start to finish. They came out hot and we struggled shooting the ball all night. There was nothing to say.

Itzehoe had the commanding 40-32 lead at the break. Koblenz had severe difficulty defending in the first quarter. Was it more the team mistakes or the game of Itzehoe that allowed them to take off so quickly?

Like I said, I think they started the game hitting some tough shots. And we couldn’t buy a basket for the first 5 or so. I don’t think we made many mistakes offensively. Maybe a few defensively but they made us pay for every single one of them.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz got their offense going in the third quarter. What words of wisdom did head coach Danny Rodriguez give for the last time this season at half-time?

Just give the last 20 mins everything we got. We were only one run away from changing the game completely. But it just never happened for us. When we got our offense going, our defensive wasn’t good enough. And vice-versa.

A big problem this season was defensive consistency. This also wasn’t accomplished in this game. What was lacking most?

Mental breakdowns had been a huge problem. I just think we had some match-up problems all night. Maybe just a bigger body to throw at Hooper and Colo down low would have helped. But I thought CJ and Brian did a pretty good job.

In the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz played good offense, but couldn’t get stops. How much does it hurt inside when you fight and get 17 offensive rebounds but still lose?

Definitely hurts a little considering the fact that we led in almost every statistical category except for shooting. In most cases, that wins you a game. But going on the road in a playoff game makes it tough to come back from. We fought extremely hard, just couldn’t get it going.

Anthony Canty had a tough shooting day going 6/20. He had some other great games. Is this a good example of how good players can’t always have great games in huge games?

He’s helped carry us the last few weeks and he’s shot the ball extremely well since he’s joined the team. We all have tough shooting nights, but we were telling him to keep shooting. We had confidence in him the whole night, but when it’s one of those days it’s just one of those days.

Boksic and Hooper combined for 47 points. Please talk a little about what made it hard to stop them?

Their games compliment each other so well. One is a physical presence down low and one is more crafty from the outside. And their size difference causes a lot of team’s problems to match up. They played extremely well and once they got their rhythm, it was already too late to stop.

Chris Hooper is a very special player. Why isn’t a guy like that balling in the Pro A?

Very talented player, he’s dominated this league for a couple years now. I think he’ll get his opportunities pretty soon.

You had 11 points and 9 boards on 3/6 shooting. Do you feel like you could have been more aggressive on this night?

Yes, I think I could have been more aggressive but with our offense, sometimes it makes it difficult to get the ball in the right spots to score. I’ll work on that in the offseason, and make sure the ball is in my hands during big games and big moments.

Itzehoe head coach Pat Elzie comes over as a coach that many guys have liked playing for. Is he a guy that you would like to ball for?

Absolutely, I’ve heard nothing but great things about him as a coach and person. It would be great to have that chance to play for someone like him.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Been watching more series than movies. Last series has been the Last Chance U basketball documentary. Really good if you haven’t seen it yet.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Terry Black (198-F-78, college: Baylor) is a former professional player that had a nice professional career overseas from 2001-2008. He played in countries like Italy, South Korea, Finland and Germany. In Germany he played two seasons with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and a season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He also playedin the American leagues USBL and CBA. After high school he played at Indian Hills Community College and then at Baylor (NCAA) from 1999-2001 leading the big 12 in rebounding his senior year. He spoke to eurobasket about his time at Baylor and the special basketball magic there.

Terry thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is life treating you at the moment in these difficult times?

Life has been good and full of emotions during the pandemic, I’ve lost a few family members because of Covid and my girlfriend and I both had pretty bad cases of COVID

You last played professionally for Joensuun Kataja (Finland-Korisliiga) in the 2007-2008 season playing 27 games averaging 14.8ppg, 9.2rpg, 2.0apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 51.8%. You have been retired now 13 years. Has time flown by or has it gone slowly?

Time has flown by but filled with a lot of joy as I get to watch my amazing three kids compete in sports my Terrianna runs track at Loras college my son AB was playing football and basketball killing it in two sports & Beckham is a fearless basketball player

How much do you miss playing professionally and what have you missed the most?

The first few years I didn’t miss the game at all but when I started to miss it was when I started to coach basketball and the past few years I took off coaching to be a part of my kids success and supporting them

Talk a little about your life after being a professional player. What are you doing today and how was the transition from player to life after professional basketball?

Life after I retired was pretty cool because I was able to transition into the next phase which was cars and started working for an independent car repair Shop and then into dealerships. Today I own a mobile oil change business and am looking into getting back to coaching at the Highschool level

Let’s talk about your alma mata Baylor. You played there from 1999-2001 after playing two years at Indian Hills Community College (NJCAA). What kind of an experience was it for you in general to play at Baylor (NCAA)?

The experience was amazing and I’ve built so many good relationships there. I feel like I still live there, and I still talk to 85 percent of the guys I played with in college. Stepping onto that court for games was magical

When you were at Baylor (NCAA) the school was in a 20 year NCAA tournament drought as it hadn’t been at the big dance between 1988 and 2008. What was basketball in general like at that time in comparison to how the game is played today and the type of players one sees now in the NCAA?

I think the game has become a quicker game style of play. It was different during my time, because the energy was not present in the building. We had an amazing run and I also think every alum before us had a part in building towards the success. They are expanding in Waco today but given we beat a nationally ranked Kansas team on ESPN made it cool for other kids to go to Baylor

They won the 2021 NCAA title. How did you feel the day after the win? How much pride did you establish over the last 20 years after graduating?

The day after the win I still couldn’t believe how they dominated a well coached team, took a lot of pride in the win. My family and I regularly attend games and were in contact with coaches as my son AB is a Baylor recruit.

Gonzaga was the huge favorite. How big do you rate this upset and how was your feeling going in about the chances of Baylor (NCAA) pulling off the upset?

I don’t think it was an upset. I think the Baylor staff came up with a good game plan and worked it to perfection and was able to get up big to start the game and maintained it through out the game

Baylor (NCAA) two NCAA Sweet 16’s in 2014 and 2017. If someone had told you in 2017 that Baylor would be crowded NCAA champions in 2021 what would you have thought?

If someone told me they would be crowned I wouldn’t have believed it, but my second thought would have been yes. Coach Drew has been there 17 years grinding. He said when he got there he was bringing a title to Waco and he delivered!!

Baylor has had 13 NCAA tournament appearances, 6 Elite 8’appearances and 5 Sweet 16’s. They also hadn’t been in a NCAA final game since 73 years. What does this title mean to the school and to you personally?

The title means the new fancy arena is coming!! Top ranked recruits are coming there and there should be some type of raises coming for that staff, and new opportunities are coming

Baylor had a simple game plan. Make some shots. If you miss get the rebounds and then make some more shots. Can basketball sometimes be that simple?

What I seen in Baylor’s game play was to make the bigs guard on the perimeter and get stops on defense and run through the sets and make three point shots

How key was it for Baylor players Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, Flo Thamba and Mark Vital limiting Drew Timme to 12 points?. The star Jalen Suggs had 22 points, but Gonzaga didn’t have scoring support behind him.

It was extremely vital. Timme is a great amazing player that was held to 12 points mostly because he was on the perimeter using energy to guard the Baylor guys. Those guys down in Waco love each other and their not too worried about what people say outside that locker room. The theme is culture of joy

Gonzaga has made big strides since 2015 making 5 NCAA Elite 8 appearances and two NCAA finals in 2021 and 2017. Could another final loss hurt their overall confidence to win the big one or do you feel like they will be due in 2022? Many are already picking them to win it next year?

Gonzaga used to be a sleeper team. That coaching staff over there has built a power house and has had many successful players come from there. They had a number one pick and possibly having another come this year in Suggs so obviously Baylor should be picked to win it given the results,

Was the rebounding stat of 38-22 rebounds and 16 offensive rebounds one of the biggest keys for the win?

Out Rebounding a team is always a key to winning because you get more possessions in a 40 minute game

Davion Mitchell is seen as a #1 Draft pick and Jared Butler as a possible second round pick. How have you followed their careers and how do you seem them doing in the NBA?

I think both these guys will do well at the next level, because they’ve worked really hard to perfect their craf. t Teague is no different from the other guys I don’t know him very well but I know he will shine given the opportunity

How proud are you of head coach Scott Drew? Do you feel he will get more respect after this win?

Coach has been getting more and more respect as his coaching career has unfolded. He comes from a basketball family and has had a successful one at coaching and playing in the NBA

How do you see the future of Baylor (NCAA) basketball. Two guys seem to be heading to the NBA and Macio Teague and Mark Vital are also done as seniors.

Baylor coaches recruit to fit the program so we’re losing two good guards and a big, but I’m sure they have began the process of filling those spots, I hear a kid AB in the ’22 class is really good maybe he will end up in a Baylor uniform wearing #24 lol

Have you seen Coming To America 2 yet? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left the original classic untouched?

I’ve seen coming to America 2 I liked it and they had an amazing cast many of the people judging was not even around or a fan to have seen the original and that’s pretty cool. They used Rick Ross’s house and the castle that alone tells a story of success.

Thanks Terry for the chat.

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Anthony Watkins (194-PG-00) is a 20 year old 194cm guard playing his first season with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig (Germany-BBL). He has the German/American citizenship and lived in Chattanooga and attended McCallie High School before coming to Germany in 2019. Last season he split time with the Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB) playing10 games avergaing 3.6ppg. He also played with the OeTTINGER Rockets Gotha 2nd team (Germany-2.Regionalliga) and in in Jan.’20 moved to VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Regionalliga) playing 8 games averaging 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 58.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 85-83 win on the road over FC Bayern Munich.

Anthony congrats on the massive 85-83 victory in Munich. How good does a win feel like this after being blown out by ratiopharm Ulm 91-57?

This win is exactly what we needed. We had switched it up this week. We reset as a team and found ourselves. We came to Munich played hard and pulled out a win.

What special magic did head coach Pete Strobl do this week to get you extra prepared for FC Bayern Munich. Or is one extra fired up to play a team like FC Bayern Munich anyway?

It was a bit of both. We switched it up a bit this week. We practiced one day and had a dance class the next day. We mixed it up and got all together laughing and joking around. We are a young hingry team and will get up for a big game like this always.

You had a front row seat. The only thing missing was the popcorn. How tough is it not playing in games and what was the one thing you picked up in this game from the bench?

I don’t really see it that way. I am always a competitor. I can learn so much from a game like this. Big in a game like this is seeing how teams react in late game situations. It was big seeing the adjustments we made and taking care of the lead even when the momentum ebbed. Important was also how we could go on runs against a great team like this. I try to soak in as much as possible from the Euroleague and ex NBA players.

FC Bayern Munich had the slim 38-37 advantage at the break. FC Bayern Munich haven’t been themselves in the last weeks having lost two of three games coming in. Has the Euroleague toll and success gotten the best of them at the moment?

They have a very tough schedule. We gave them our best shot. Great teams never get comfortable. They will do their best possible to have a great season

What words of wisdom did head coach Pete Strobl give the team in the break. That helped them come out on a 31 point explosion in the third quarter?

He remined us of the moment and how close we were. He told us to trust our game plan and leave it all out on the floor. He also reminded us to stay locked in defensively and not let runs get in the way. He also told us to shoot the ball when we were open and just to trust the process and grind it out.

The fourth quarter was really exciting. FC Bayern Munich powered back, but Braunschweig had nerves of steel at the end. Did Braunschweig want it more?

At this level both teams want it equally as much at the wire. We were able to stick to our game plan and get the lead at the end and protect it. We got a major stop at the end. We executed better than they did at the end. It comes down to executing more than desire.

Turudic and Peterka were the hero’s at the end. How vital was the all around smart rebounding by Braunschweig for the win?

They were huge. They were hunting down rebounds all night. They scored the ball very well and made big plays. They also kept the bench involved. The bench brought a lot of energy which helped their play as well. We were like extra guys on the court.

Braunschweig have 10 victories now and are tied with three other teams. I guess the goal now is to win as many games and finish as high as possible?

Not at all. We want to go day by day game by game. Our motto this season has been to get better every day. We aren’t worried about the next weeks. We want to attack each day and bring more intensity into each day than the last day. We will see where we will end at the end of the day.

James Robinson had an off night shooting, but when the shot isn’t falling then re gets his playmaking in gear. How valuable has his play been for your overall development?

He is my guy. We ride back together after games and talk a lot. He is so valuable to our team with his calmness an dis never fed up. He always does what is best for the team. He had an off night shooting, but made big plays and kept us together. He is soft spoken, but when he talks everybody listens. He focused on winning every quarter tonight. I have been blessed that he takes the time to talk to me and help me develop as a player and person. I have made a great friend in him.

German karim Jallow had another huge game netting 24 points. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

Karim is always in attack mode and brings so much energy. You would think that a guy with numbers like that would rest o his laurels, but he never does. He is always in the gym and putting up extra shots. Sometimes when coach Pete has the young players for extra practice sessions, he will join us. He is always wanting to get better. It is an incredible inspiration to play with a player like him who keeps you humble with his work ethic. He is a great example for other young players: he has helped me with physicality and speed. He is a high level dude that is going places

How valuable has it been for your development playing with many other hungry young German players?

I have been lucky to be able to play in an awesome environment. There is a big excitement level here in Braunschweig. With the great opportunity that the young players have gotten, it has given every one a huge confidence boost. All have found their game and have gotten the freedom to understand who they are as players. I have not taken this experience for granted. It is more dangerous to guard a experiment guy than a system guy. We have been allowed to make mistakes and learn from them.

How has your game progressed with the daily practices with an easyCredit BBL team?

I feel like I have slowed down my game since I got here. I came into high level basketball at age 19. It was an adjustment, but after a while I understood nuances of the game and understand to do the work early at both ends of the court. I also have seen my comfort level rise in practices.

The games don’t get any easier as you play #1 team Ludwigsburg. You gave them a tough game in the first attempt. Braunschweig is a lot better team now. What will be key to getting the win?

Handling their pressure will be key. They have their hat on the defensive end, pick up full court and are physical. We did a pretty good job of that in the first game. We have to stay poised and be on the same page and stick to the game plan. If we can stay calm under pressure then I think we will be ok.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Focus with Will Smith for maybe the 100,000 time. That movie is a go to.

Thanks Anthony for the chat.

Ishmail Wainright (196-G/F-94, college: Baylor) is a 25 year old 196cm forward from Kansas City, Missouri that is playing his third professional season in France with SIG Strasburg currently having helped the team reach the Final 8 in the Basketball Champions League. Currently in the Pro A he is averaging 11,7ppg, 4,1rpg, 2,4apg and 1,9spg and in the Basketball Champions League is averaging 9,6ppg, 4,1rpg, 2,2apg and 1,3spg.He completed his second professional season and first with Rasta Vechta (Germany-BBL) last season averaging 10,4ppg, 5,8rpg, 2,5apg and 1,8spg in the BBL this season and 10,7ppg, 5,8rpg, 3,8apg and 1,9spg in the BCL. He played his rookie season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 12,1ppg, 7,3rpg and 2,8apg. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian School and then played 131 NCAA games at Baylor (NCAA) from 2013-2017 and as a senior played 35 games averaging 5.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 68.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the special magic of Baylor basketball.

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

Basketball is going great. I can’t complain to be honest. Well only about the fans not being able to attend games and not being able to bring family over also is just about it. But all and all, we are winning and having fun doing just that.

Your playing your third professional season and first in France with SIG Strasburg. The EasyCredit BBL is a top league in Europe but so is the France Pro A. With the experiences you have had how would you compare the Pro A to the German BBL? Which league is top from top to bottom with teams, and players.

Both leagues are amazing. I couldn’t really tell you which is better top to bottom because each team is solid in each league. You can lose to anyone. I believe Germany has more EuroLeague teams so some may say Germany but France has more team competing in many International competitions. So it’s tough to say in a way.

SIG Strasburg is playing a top season in the Pro A and fighting to reach the Basketball Champions League Final 8. How good are the chances of the team to win a title this season?

That’s the main goal is to bring titles back to France. And if we keep doing what’s needed to be done and play great basketball it’s highly possible.

SIG Strasburg are like the Buffalo Bills in that they have reached 5 finals since 2013 in the Pro A but never won. Do you feel this sense of urgency with the club to win it all?

hahaha Buffalo Bills. There always is going be a sense or urgency because of this whole season you know. Covid. Teams. Etc. so for sure there a sense of urgency.

Let’s talk about your alma mata Baylor. They won the 2021 NCAA title. How do you feel the day after the win?

SICEM BEARS !!! IM A NATIONAL CHAMPION!!!! THATS HOW I FEEL BABY !!! LEEETTTSSSS GOOOOOOOO !!!!!!!! WE DID IT !!!!!!!

Playing overseas is always a problem when you want to catch NBA and NCAA games. Did your schedule permit you to stay up and watch history being made?

I wasn’t going miss it no matter what !

You reached two NCAA Sweet 16’s with Baylor. The 2017 run was your favorite only because nobody thought that Baylor could accomplish anything that year. If someone had told you in 2017 that Baylor would be crowned NCAA champions in 2021 what would you have thought?

Yes. I knew it was going happen. I told them it was going happen sooner than people thought. I have screenshots of me saying such things. Tweets and all.

Baylor has had 13 NCAA tournament appearances, 6 Elite 8’appearances and 5 Sweet 16’s. They also hadn’t been in a NCAA final game since 73 years. What does this title mean to the school and to you personally?

It was a lot of blood , sweat, and tears. That title game wasn’t just about this year’s team , that was for the past players also. The guys that started it all. Looking back and seeing what Coach Drew did for the University.

Baylor had a simple game plan. Make some shots. If you miss get the rebounds and then make some more shots. Can basketball sometimes be that simple?

Basketball can be very simple. But it’s the mindset to make it that simple in a way. You have to be disciplined !

Baylor made 11 of their first 20 shots including six three’s and led by 19 points at the break. They had a double digit lead for 34 of the 40 minutes. How vital do you believe was the mentality of the Baylor team for being able to play this well against the heavy favorite and unbeaten Gonzaga team?

Culture of JOY. SIMPLE !

How key was it for Baylor players Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, Flo Thamba and Mark Vital limiting Drew Timme to 12 points?. The star Jalen Suggs had 22 points, but Gonzaga didn’t have scoring support behind him.

I feel like they haven’t played against a team like Baylor the whole year and so coming into the game, they knew they had to do something and really couldn’t.

Gonzaga has made big strides since 2015 making 5 NCAA Elite 8 appearances and two NCAA finals in 2021 and 2017. Could another final loss hurt their overall confidence to win the big one or do you feel like they will be due in 2022? Many are already picking them to win it next year?

I‘m going with Baylor every year until I become a college coach. Hahaha !!

Was the rebounding stat 0f 38-22 rebounds and 16 offensive rebounds one of the biggest keys for the win?

I’m sure rebounding was a must due to our rotation. Mark Vital took care of that part and I’m proud of him.

Davion Mitchell is seen as a #1 Draft pick and Jared Butler as a possible second round pick. How have you followed their careers and how do you seem them doing in the NBA?

-They both played their way into the first round. Davion will be an amazing defender and Jared will be a scorer but also a great distributor.

Where do you see the journey of Macio Teague going? He seemed a bit in the shadow of Butler and Mitchell. Could he make the NBA and do you see his game being suited to becoming a impact player overseas?

Macio is tough ! A scorer and a Hustler. He will do what you need him to do. And he showed that these past two years.

In our interview you stated this about your ex head coach at Baylor Scott Drew. ‘He treated us like professionals since day one. Talked to us like one. Worked us like one. He used to tell us, ‘ You guys want to be professionals someday, you have to walk, talk, eat, work, and take care of your bodies like professionals do!’ How proud are you of your ex coach and how has he continued to develop since your time there?

Hall of Fame coach for sure. I’m extremely proud of him and not just him but the staff around him. Coach Tang, AB, Nu , Patterson, AD, And even the last coaches. They’ve stepped it up another level and will continue to do.

How do you see the future of Baylor (NCAA) basketball. Two guys seem to be heading to the NBA and Macio Teague and Mark Vital are also done as seniors.

Very very bright. We want to be a blue blood like Jared said. We want to have the recognition as one of the best schools in the country which we’ve proved to be just that.

Have you see the new Coming to America 2? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left it untouched?

Haha yes I’ve seen it and I think it was alright. Maybe should’ve left it alone but it was worth the try. I’m taking the original one.

Thanks Ishmail for the chat.

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-92, college: VWU) is a 29 year old 190cm point guard that is playing his first season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. Last season with Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6% in the Regionalliga. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and DJ Woodmore team together each week to talk basketball

DJ congrats on the massive 71-70 victory over the EN Baskets Schwelm. How refreshing was it coming back from the disappointing loss against Giessen and winning at home?

Thank you !! Definitely a breathe of fresh air for a short amount of time. I think it’s been a theme that everybody wins at home in these playoffs, so we didn’t want to be the first to change that. But now we have to focus on breaking that when we go to Itzehoe.

Coach Rodriguez had a bizarre starting 5 with Germans Lieser and Mayer and Chad Wellian. What kind of dynamic did this starting five give you?

I thought that 5 was designed to get us off to a strong defensive start. I thought they did a great job of bringing us energy from the jump. And the guys that came in later, were able to sustain it!!

The contest was dead locked at 31-31 at the break. Was this typical playoff basketball? Why couldn’t anytime get away from one another?

Yes, it was a typical playoff game. I thought we could have made a run in the first half, but we couldn’t get going offensively. I thought we played a little too slow and playing to cautious. But we’re able to change it a bit in the 2nd half.

The EPG Baskets picked up their defense. What was key in how you defended in comparison to the Giessen game?

We knew that we had to do a good job with Scott, which I thought we did for 3 quarters. He runs the entire show, and they go as he does. Giessen was a bit more dynamic because they caused a few matchup problems we didn’t like. We liked our match up against Schwelm.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz took the lead in the third quarter, but couldn’t totally get away. You did a good job on Montrael Scott limiting him to 14 points, but couldn’t contain Anell Alexis. What made it so tough to keep him in check?

Alexis started out hot by hitting his first 3 threes. We knew he was capable by we didn’t want to panic because of it. We wanted someone else to beat us besides Scott and we were able to contain almost everyone else. If we cut down on turnovers and offensive rebounds, we probably pull away much quicker.

Chad Wellian hit the winner with 34 seconds as you made the assist. How good was it seeing him make the winner. His playing time has suffered with the depth that the team has.

Great, I knew he’d be ready to step up and knock it down. He’s struggled with adjusting since the addition of the new players but we all know what he’s capable of and him hitting that shot was just a small taste. He’ll be ready for Itzehoe for sure.

How nerve wracking were the last seconds as Schwelm had two chances to win the game. Does this type of ending give added self-confidence on the defensive end?

Not too nerve wrecking. I thought we played it smart, taking a foul because we had one to give, switching the inbounds to have a taller defender contesting the shot of Scott. But we have to find a way to come up with the long rebound. I’ll take it though.

How big was Calvin Oldham tonight? He had 10 points and 8 rebounds and continues to be that glue guy every game.

He’s a game changer. Offensively and Defensively. He takes the assignment. Doesn’t complain and gives us positive energy for 40 minutes. We need him on the court at all times and he never fails to make huge plays when needed to!

You had a 11/5/7 game and shot under 40%. I can imagine after a win like this that is what your most happy about even if the shots weren’t falling like usual.

Not so much. I’m not so concerned with percentages in these playoffs. I’m just here to do what I can to get the win. If it’s scoring one game, then I’ll bring it. Maybe defense another day, or assisting on another. All about the win.

What will be key to winning next game against Itzehoe?

Itzehoe will the be the last game and we have to drive 6+ hours to play them in their home gym. We have to contain Hooper and keep the other guys guessing all night. I think we match up well offensively. But they could cause some problems for us because of their size. It should be great game.

Gonzaga battles Baylor in the NCAA final. Who will take it all this year in March Madness?

I actually don’t want them to have an undefeated season. They’ve been cruising all season long, and I think this Baylor team is a little different than the competition they’ve seen all year. I can imagine them winning it. I’m taking Baylor this year.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Emmanuel Lecomte (180-PG-95, college: Baylor) is a 25 year old 180cm point guard from Grimbergen Belgium that is playing his third professional season. This season has been a roller coaster as he began with the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-BBL) playing 2 games averaging 11.0ppg, 2.0apg and then moved to moved to Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-Jeep ELITE ProA) playing 2 games averaging 11.0ppg, 2.0apg, and currently is with Prienai CBet (Lithuania-LKL) averaging 15,6ppg, 1,8rpg, 5,4apg and 1,3spg. Last year he split time with Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 18 games averaging 6.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 38.5%, 3FGP: 30.6%, FT: 79.4%, and then moved to Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 5 games averaging 5.4ppg, 1.0apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 80.0%, FT: 90.0%. In his rookie season in 2018-2019 he played with Agua Caliente Clippers of Ontario (NBA G League) playing 48 games averaging 14.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.3apg, 2FGP: 50.8%, 3FGP: 40.2%, FT: 86.2%, and then moved to Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain-Liga ACB) playing 9 games averaging 7.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 15.8%, FT: 90.5% He started his basketball career in Belgium with BBC Kangoeroes-Boom (D2) and then played with Belfius Mons-Hainaut (Ethias League). In 2013 he moved to the States and played with Miami (NCAA) for two seasons playing 71 games. He then transferred to Baylor and made his break through as a junior leading the team to the NCAA Sweet 16 playing 33 games averaging 12.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.8apg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 83.0%. In his senior year he played 32 games averaging 16.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 88.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his memories of Baylor and the 2021 title game.

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

I’m in Lithuania at the moment. I have been good. I’m just trying to finish the season strong

Your playing your third professional season. It has been a roller coaster season. You began in Frankfurt, then went to France to Pau Ortez and now are balling in Lithuania with Prienai CBet (Lithuania-LKL) How tough has this season been for you in terms of the team changes and COVID-19?

It has been more about COVID as to why I have been having a roller coaster season. This season hasn’t been easy, but it has made me better as a player. I’m happy that I have found stability in Lithuania.

How did your experience with three teams and all the COVID-19 drama made you stronger as a man?

It has been a long and difficult time for everyone. Not only for basketball players. I needed to adjust in this period and learn to make changes. COVID helped me to become more prepared for what comes next.

Let’s talk about your alma mater Baylor. They won the 2021 NCAA title. How do you feel the day after the win?

I feel great. I’m so happy for the players and the coaching staff. They truly deserve it. Last year was so tough. They had a good year and then it abruptly ended because of COVID. They took advantage this year and kept winning. They proved that they were the best by beating the heavy favorite.

Playing overseas is always a problem when you want to catch NBA and NCAA games. Did your schedule permit you to stay up and watch history being made?

Yes for sure. The game began at 4.30 and was over at 6,30 am. I’m glad that we had today off. I was up all night. I couldn’t miss it.

You reached the NCAA Sweet 16 with Baylor in 2017. You said this about Baylor basketball to me in 2017. ‘The sky is the limit for us this year as it was last year, we are going to prove a lot of people wrong again but it’s a process we still have a lot of work to do but I believe we can accomplish anything with this team, the Final Four is in mind for sure. If someone had told you in 2017 that Baylor would be crowned NCAA champions in 2021 what would you have thought?

I would of said that it was completely possible. I knew what kind of coaching staff we had.

What was special about the 2017 Baylor team that had future NBA player Johnathan Motley and future Euro pro’s Ishmail Wainright and Allerik Freeman?

We had a great team. We were all close and were good friends. It showed on the court. We had experienced guys. Those guys you mentioned had already been there for a few years. I came in and just did what I do. We were #1 in the country at some point. We set a school record winning 15 games in a row. I have to give a lot of credit to Scott Drew. He has a system that works and wins games.

Baylor has had 13 NCAA tournament appearances, 6 Elite 8’appearances and 5 Sweet 16’s. They also hadn’t been in a NCAA final game since 73 years. What does this title mean to the school and to you personally?

It means a lot. Coach Scott Drew came to Baylor when they were at the bottom. He was in a bad position when he took over, but he turned it around. He made Baylor into a winning program. He made his dream become reality. He did the impossible taking Baylor from the bottom to the top. I feel like I’m part of it. We should all feel proud. We all help build the Baylor tradition.

Baylor had a simple game plan. Make some shots. If you miss get the rebounds and then make some more shots. Can basketball sometimes be that simple?

I think that overall Baylor was more prepared than Gonzaga. Baylor was a lot more physical than Gonzaga. They rebounded very well especially on the offensive glass. Baylor plays with three guards, but everyone helped make plays and crashed the boards. In a game like this rebounding is huge. Baylor bullied Gonzaga from the start to the end.

Baylor made 11 of their first 20 shots including six three’s and led by 19 points at the break. They had a double digit lead for 34 of the 40 minutes. How vital do you believe was the mentality of the Baylor team for being able to play this well against the heavy favorite and unbeaten Gonzaga team?

It’s all about the mentality. It is one game and there are only 40 minutes. It is all about who shows up and wants it more. Like I said before Baylor was more prepared and more physical from the start. You could see from the start that there was a difference.

How key was it for Baylor players Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua, Flo Thamba and Mark Vital limiting Drew Timme to 12 points?. The star Jalen Suggs had 22 points, but Gonzaga didn’t have scoring support behind him.

Gonzaga do have support, but Baylor was just too good. Those three guys that you mentioned are probably the three most physical defenders in the NCAA and they also do the little things. Vital is only 6’5, but he also plays the five. He doesn’t score much, but he is a force of nature and gets offensive rebounds. When you have three guys like them always rotating in time it becomes difficult for Drew Timme being able to play his game.

Gonzaga has made big strides since 2015 making 5 NCAA Elite 8 appearances and two NCAA finals in 2021 and 2017. Could another final loss hurt their overall confidence to win the big one or do you feel like they will be due in 2022? Many are already picking them to win it next year?

That doesn’t mean anything. It is way to early to make assumptions like that. They have always had a great program and a lot of credit goes to head coach Mark Few. They have always had a winning program and been successful.

Was the rebounding stat 0f 38-22 rebounds and 16 offensive rebounds one of the biggest keys for the win?

It is March Madness. That is why there are so many upsets. Teams come to play. Both teams are great. But in the end Baylor played harder and wanted it more. It showed on the stats.

Davion Mitchell is seen as a #1 Draft pick and Jared Butler as a possible second round pick. How have you followed their careers and how do you seem them doing in the NBA?

It is hard to say. Both guys will get drafted. They didn’t only have good performances in the final, but throughout the whole tournament. Important for them is that they make plays at both ends of the court. The NBA is looking for guys who can score, guard multiple positions and are good with the ball. Both have the potential to be good.

Where do you see the journey of Macio Teague going? He seemed a bit in the shadow of Butler and Mitchell. Could he make the NBA and do you see his game being suited to becoming an impact player overseas?

His game can translate to anywhere. He can shoot the ball and play defense. That will allow him to be able to play anywhere. He could be a good role player in the NBA or play a role on a team in Europe.

Your ex teammate Ishmail Wainright said this about head coach Scott Drew ‘He treated us like professionals since day one. Talked to us like one. Worked us like one. He used to tell us, ‘ You guys want to be professionals someday, you have to walk, talk, eat, work, and take care of your bodies like professionals do!’ How proud are you of your ex coach and how did he groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

I am very proud of coach Drew. He is a great coach, but an even better man. He did a lot for me. The most important thing he taught me was how to lead a team. In order to be a point guard you need to be vocal and bring energy. That was the most valuable thing that he taught me.

How do you see the future of Baylor (NCAA) basketball. Two guys seem to be heading to the NBA and Macio Teague and Mark Vital are also done as seniors.

I think the future will be good. They still have guys coming back like Adan Flagler and Matthew Mayer. We saw how they could play and now they will take over next year. The most important thing is that there is a system in place that works. They will recruit good players. I’m confident with the coaching staff doing a good job. I’m sure the program will continue to go up.

Have you seen Coming To America 2 yet? The reviews have been mixed. Shouldn’t they just have left the original classic untouched?

I haven’t seen it yet. It depends. If you make a sequel it better be good. I like movies. I will watch it. There are some good sequels and some bad ones.

Thanks Manu for the chat.

TJ DiLeo is a 30 year old 190cm guard that is playing his eighth professional season and eighth in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played his first two professional seasons in the Pro A with the Giessen 46ers and then helped the team move to the BBL in 2015. He then moved to the Telekom Baskets Bonn where he is in his fifth season. Currently he has played 170 easyCredit BBL games and 29 Basketball Champions League games and 18 Fiba Europe Cup games. He began his basketball career at Cinnaminson High School and played at Temple (NCAA) from 2008-2013 playing a total of 126 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 91-88 loss against the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim.

Thanks TJ for talking to germanhoops.com. You lost a tough game against Alba Berlin 80-75 and another tough game against Crailsheim 91-88. Even if it may not be a consolation, you must as a team have a certain kind of self-confidence that you can play with the top teams.

Yes for sure. It is all about getting over the hump. We hope to get another signature win soon and win more games down the stretch. It really just comes down to the little things at the end of the game.

The Hakro Merlins Crailsheim came out strong in the first quarter scoring 25 points, but the Telekom Baskets Bonn stepped it up in the second quarter winning 31-15. What adjustments did you make on defense and what was more significant on offense that helped the team score better?

We changed some things on defense with some switches. Also Bell-Haynes was on the bench at that time with a few fouls. On offense we pushed the ball well on transition and got open shots with the kick out. We also moved the ball well and had a good pace.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn had the 47-40 advantage at the break. What did head coach Will Voigt tell the team in the break to concentrate on most in the second half?

He told us to keep the same defensive strategy from the second quarter. He also wanted us to keep moving the ball well and keeping that good pace intact.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn controlled the fourth quarter and had to leads, but in the end couldn’t hold the lead in crunch-time. How key was that Jeremy Jones three pointer for shifting the momentum?

That was really big. He is a really good shooter. We gave up some easy offensive rebounds at the end that led to baskets. We also suffered some defensive mistakes and had some not good possessions on offense.

Just about everything went right for Chris Babb for 36 points, but Bonn only had two guys in double figures while Crailsheim had five guys. Do you feel like another reliable Bonn scorer could have been the difference on this night?

I thought that we moved the ball really well. A lot of times we used the extra pass more than usual. We really could of used Alexander Hamilton tonight. Chris Babb was great. We just kept going to him. I thought that our big men did a good job passing out of the post finding the open guys. We did shoot some bad three pointers.

How key were the 13 Crailsheim offensive rebounds? Was the effort just better by Crailsheim in certain moments on the glass?

I don’t know if we didn’t block out well enough or didn’t get enough of the long rebounds. If the other teams is getting the offensive rebounds down the stretch then it isn’t a good sign for us.

MVP candidate Trae Bell-Haynes is still doing a good job helping his team to wins. But he doesn’t have the explosive stats like in the first three months. Have teams figured him out better or has he changed his game around a bit?

No, I just think that teams are keying in on him more now. He is still a great penetrator that is finding open guys. And when he is open he has the ability to knock down the three. He also is great on transition. Teams are building their defensive game plan more around him. It is pretty respectable when teams are focusing on trying to stop him. He is hard to stop.

It is very tight from 8-13. How determined is the team that the playoffs could still be reality?

Yes we have a chance. We have had games this season where we came from behind and games where we fought until the end. We have to go game by game. We know that we have to win very game to have a chance.

The games don’t get easier with Oldenburg and FC Bayern Munich. Does the team have good self-confidence to beat Oldenburg after playing ell against Berlin and Crailsheim?

We are going into the Oldenburg game with a lot of confidence. We have a lot of trust in our game. We know that we are right there. Oldenburg has a high power offense. We know that we have to be locked in on defense.

I know you see Chris Babb light it up in practice and games, but how special was his 36 points? Was this just extraordinary or just another day at the office for him?

It was definitely a special game for him. We don’t take it for granted for what he does on the court. He does so much on the court. It feels like he will never miss finding that open guy. If he has a shot then he will take it.

How have you seen the development of Killian Binapel this season? How much did he benefit from COVID-19? He only concentrated on the BBL.

He has been great. He does individual work before and after practice. He always plays hard. It isn’t easy for a young player not getting many minutes. He also hasn’t had the opportunity this season to get extra time with Rhondorf. He has played well for us and I’m happy what he has brought to the team. He is a great guy in the locker room.

You had 5/4/7 stats in 30 minutes. Since the 2017 season you have been steady in your scoring stats. Do you expect yourself to be able to be a guy who can average double figures in scoring

I’m not to worried about having to score in double figures. I’m more worried about how successful the team is. If my role was changed to be more of a scorer then I would try to fill my role. Most important for me is to help my team win

You’re a leader and a versatile player that does very much on the court. Now at age 30 what additional things are you trying to give the team to be successful?

I’m trying to lead by example, work hard and communicate on the court. COVID-19 hasn’t been an easy time for anybody. There isn’t really anything to do off the court. Every day is the same so sometimes guys aren’t in good moods. I just try to be positive in practice.

Dino Radja recently said that he couldn’t imagine Russell Westbrook having success with a European team. Do you agree?

At one time he was the most athletic guy in the world. Some NBA guys come overseas and have problems. I don’t think he would. He is a good passer and rebounder. I think he would be successful here. His game can translate to anywhere.

Draymond Greene recently said he is the greatest defender of all-time. Do you agree?

I’m not sure. He still has some years ahead of him to keep his game up. I think there are some guys ahead of him now. But he still has some time to change my mind.

Baylor upset Gonzaga by 16 points to win the 2021 NCAA title. How big can one weigh this upset?

People may see it being an upset because Gonzaga was undefeated. Baylor was one of the two best teams. Baylor have guys that can play. I was a bit surprised by how much they won. But I knew how good they were. I wouldn’t call it a upset.

Did you see Coming to America 2 yet? Should they not have left the classic untouched?

I don’t mind watching remakes. It is hard to make a remake and have it compete with the classic. We will see how the new Space Jam will be.

Thanks TJ for the chat.

Tags : T.J. DILEO, TELEKOM BASKETS BONN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Isaiah Crawley (201-PF-98, college: Georgia South) is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Ripley, Tennessee that is playing his rookie season with the Tigers Tuebingen (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 16,9ppg, 5,2rpg and 2,3apg. He has scored in double figures in 13 games including 31 points against Ehingen and 29 points against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He began his basketball career at Ripley High School. He played at Columbia State Community College (JUCO) from 2016-2018 and then moved to Georgia Southern University (NCAA) averaging 11.6ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 61.7% as a junior and as a senior averaged 13.2ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 67.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Isaiah for talking to germanhoops.com. How have you experienced the whole COVID-19 crisis in the last year? You played your last NCAA game on March 11th against Georgia State with a massive win and 15/16 explosion. How tough was it ending your season like that never finding a winner in the Sun Belt tournament and was that game in your thoughts a lot this summer as it was your last?

I’ve been just trying to keep my mindset on the bigger picture really. That game definitely had an impact on us all because we were on a roll and really clicking. It is what it is though

How much did the last months change your life and how much of a challenge was it finding the time and places to be able to stay in shape and be able to work on your game?

I really focused on my diet during the pandemic and basketball wise I didn’t have a gym until the last few weeks before I left to get here so I was using the time to run and stay in shape that way.

How do you feel did COVID-19 make you stronger as a man?

Maybe not physically but definitely mentally. Knowing that I didn’t have anywhere to play ball at was tough but I got through it. Everything was just at a stand still for a while which was mind blowing

Congrats on signing with German Pro A club Tigers Tuebingen. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

I didn’t know much. I looked up a couple of the players and googled the place and I really liked it.

Do you remember hearing any stories at Georgia Southern about Julius Jenkins who played at your school in the early 2000’s? He was a legend in the German BBL league.

No sir. I’ve never heard of him.

Have you had any friends, ex teammates or ex opponents play in Germany?

No sir. Couple of teammates that played elsewhere

What was your first impression of head coach Danny Jansson? What really impressed you most about him in talks?

He was a cool guy and really understood what he wanted from me and what kind of team he wanted this year and that caught my attention

The Tigers Tuebingen are really impressed with your abilities. What was the deciding factor that influenced you most to joining the Tigers?

Mainly because it was a good offer and I felt like I didn’t need to turn it down

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a very versatile forward that can really do it all. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say Michael Beasley or Blake Griffin

You like many players that go overseas had to began in JUCO before showing your abilities in the NCAA. Did you have a chip on your shoulder early on and how is it resting on your shoulders now after a strong NCAA career?

Juco sculpted me when it came to becoming mentally and physically because juco was a dogfight because everybody was fighting for the same spots. I just want to grind and to the best version of myself

You can shoot, rebound, play the pick and roll, pick and pop and are a defender with a lot of potential. Would it be fair to say that you are a modern day 2020 player?

Yea but I have mindset of an old player. Most players nowadays like playing one on one and I’m not really a fan of it

With so many abilities on the court that you possess, what do you believe is your absolute biggest asset on your court besides your versatility?

I would say being a team player. I believe in everybody having a part and doing their job instead one or two guys

On what things were you working most on this summer on your game so that you will be best prepared for your rookie season overseas?

Mainly my jumper. I can shoot but I know I would have to shoot more because of player differences compared to college

With so many strengths in your game, what do you honestly believe is a hidden strength in your game that still gets overlooked today?

My jumper definitely. A lot of people think I can’t but it’s more of me not shooting. I like driving ball and I have more success when I drive and don’t settle. I can definitely shoot though

You began your career at Columbia State Community College (JUCO). How vital were these 2 years there and how did your game benefit most from it?

Cstate made me into a more versatile player. I began shooting more developed a better handle and came out of the paint unlike I was in high school. I became a 3 4 instead of a 5. Juco basketball is not for the weak.

You then played at Georgia Southern (NCAA) from 2018-2020 reaching the Sun Belt tournament semi-finals and in 2020 the quarterfinals winning but then COVID-19 ending your season. What was your fondest moment at this school on and off the court?

I would say just being with the guys. Those two years were 2 great years and I’ve made friendships that’ll last a lifetime and I’m more than grateful.

You had your best scoring game against N Florida with 31 points the most of a player at your school since 2001 but lost 80-77. Is this one of those games that you will never forget?

I wish had our whole team that game but we only had 7 but that game was crazy. We came back towards the end but they held us off. It’s definitely a memory that’ll last

You beat UL-Monroe twice as a junior and had talented forward Travis Munnings number in each win. What memories do you have battling him and are you surprised that he hasn’t reached high levels in Europe yet?


I didn’t really know but he’s a good player. It wasn’t like a rivalry or anything but I don’t really remember what he did vs us.

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

He pushed me to be the best player I could be and the best leader I could be. The way he wanted me to lead that team really made me learn ways to lead which opened my eyes a lot and prepared me.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Trey Dawkins?

Me. Every time lol

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the NAIA or anywhere that went to the NBA?

I haven’t played against anyone that’s in the NBA.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ike Smith Montae Glenn Tavon King Tookie Brown Adrian Hicks

Please construct your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present players?

Kobe Mj Lebron KD

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

I think Jordan’s is the greatest to play from his era and Bron statistically is the greatest of this era. Durant is the best pure player to me

What was the last movie that you saw?

I watched a movie call the old guard

That’s Isaiah for the chat.