Jordan Talbert is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Little Rock, Arkansas that is playing his second professional season with the Giants Nordlingen. He came to Germany as a rookie last season and played with the Giants TSV 1861 Noerdlingen (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 26 games: 21.6ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-4(1.5bpg), FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college career at Missouri SO(NCAA2) from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 11.7ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 70.1%. He spoke to German Hoops after the 69-60 loss in game one against Ehingen.

 

 

 

Jordan thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough loss to Ehingen in game one 69-60. With the short bus trip back home to Nordlingen, what was play or aspect of the game had you most preoccupied?

What occupied my mind the most was what we could do to be better next Saturday and get the win on our home court.

When you look back at the final score and 40 minutes, was this a game where Nordlingen could have done more with the good defensive performance that the club practiced for 40 minutes?

 Yea our defense was good until we let them get out in transition. If we have better execution on the offensive end the less likely they are to get out in transition.

69 points was the least amount of points the team had scored since the loss to Dresden in mid March. What were you most disappointed with on the offensive side of the game of Nordlingen in game one?

Our shots just didn’t fall. I felt like we got a lot of good looks early we just didn’t capitalize on them when we had the opportunity.

The Giants Nordlingen had a solid start scoring 20 points in the first quarter, but then got cold mustering only seven points in the second half. What was key in the second quarter for Ehingen getting back in the game and trailing only 27-26?

We had a lot of missed opportunities. Plays we should have made in transition offense that we didn’t finish. Open shots that fall. It just wasn’t our night on the offensive end.

What did head coach Mario Matic tell the team to do better in the second half?

He just told us to stay focused and confident in ourselves. We knew it was going to be a grind it out game that came down to the final minute.

Nordlingen made a nice run in the fourth quarter and kept battling cutting the score to 61-58. Why couldn´t Nordlingen get over the hump in crunch time?

We had multiple opportunities. There are no excuses to why we didn’t get it done. We didn’t execute the way we normally do in close games and we plan on changing that next Saturday.

Nordlingen held Ehingen point guard Devon Moore to 11 points twice in the regular season, but in game one notched 27 points, six assists, seven rebounds and three steals. He really killed in the paint. Was his aggressiveness at another level?

Yea Moore came out aggressive from the beginning. He wanted to set the tone for his team early and we didn’t match his intensity. We’re confident that we can win game two if we come out and play our game.

You had 14 points and 14 rebounds but shot only 5/20 from the field. After a loss like this do you analyze the shots you took in your mind and go somewhat crazy or do you turn off the post game mind?

Of course it’s frustrating for me to have my worst shooting performance of the season at this point, but it’s just one game. Definitely going to be motivated to come out and make it up to my team in game two.

The Giants Nordlingen now have a do or die game at home. This will be the fourth meeting of the year. Will we see any surprises from Nordlingen or do the team know each other well enough after only three meetings?

 No I don’t think there will be any surprises. I anticipate another hard fought game from two good teams.

Both teams shot pretty bad from outside. Do you see game two becoming more offense or will it be a defensive battle?

I don’t know what kind of game it will be but I do expect it to be intense and the effort to be on another level.

No real surprises in the NBA playoffs, but the Boston Celtics did steal a game at home with Isaiah Thomas netting 42 points in the game. Is there anyway Boston can get by the Atlanta Hawks?

 If Isaiah keeps playing at that level the Celtics definitely have a chance. They have great chemistry and can cause problems for the Hawks.

Prince was big in another generation, but did he have any influence in your music taste when you were growing up?

 No my parents weren’t huge Prince fans in my household. I’m sure his influence was there in some way seeing that he was such a huge icon that transcends many cultures and genres of music.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Lookout.

Thanks Jordan for the chat.

 

Lamar Mallory is a 198cm forward from Dayton, Ohio playing his first season in Germany with the Licher Basket Baeren (Germany-ProB). Last season he started his professional career with the Albury Wodonga Bandits (Australia-SEABL, starting five): 5 games: 17.8ppg, 10.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 56.5%, FT: 57.9%. He played at Glenville St. (NCAA2) and as a senior played  25 games: 18.6ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: NCAA2-2(68.1%). He spoke to German Hoops after the big win against the BIS Baskets Speyer keeping Lich in the Pro B.

 

 

Congrats Lamar in helping the Licher Basket Baeren in the Pro B. What kind of feeling do you have helping keep Lich in the Pro B?

It felt really good. I also would like to say “Thank You” Licher Basketbaren for having me this past season, it has been a pleasure playing here and a valuable learning experience for my career as Professional Basketball Player. “Thank you”

How can you explain from a players standpoint what kind of feeling you get keeping a team in the league opposed to winning a title. You didn´t win a title, but can call keeping the team in the league also a success?

Um, Its satisfying but its not as satisfying of course, we would rather had won a title, for sure. But its still a good thing, especially for the organization to build on next season.

How proud are you of the team after the lousy start to the playdowns scoring 48 points in the first game against Wurzburg and losing the second game against Speyer and now winning it´s third in a row?

I am very proud of the team, I am happy everyone wanted to keep fighting and believing in what we are doing and trying to accomplish as far as keeping Licher in the ProB.

Lich averaged 92 points in the first two wins against Speyer, but scored only 77 points in the loss in the third game. How much revenge was on your mind after the last loss to Speyer?

To be honest, I think there was a lot revenge for all of us, and pressure. We knew what we had to do and we are all very happy we were able to get it done.

It was a tight game, but Lich won all four quarters if you count the 30-30 third quarter. Was this a good 40 minute basketball game for the Licher Baskets Baeren?

Licher yes, as a team I think we were focused and we played hard. But for my individual performance I think I could have done some moments better that could’ve changed the rhythm of the game for the better, but we got it done so its all good.

The game was a real battle in the second half, but Lich had the lead for the most part. What do you feel was key for not letting Speyer get over the hump?

Actually I think not letting Speyer take the lead was a big key for us. Because in the last game we were leading by 8 or 9 points at the start of the 3rd quarter, then Speyer took the lead and it changed our rhythm a little. So I think staying ahead and making sure every basket counted, was a big key for us.

How vital were the 21 turnovers that Lich forced Speyer and seven extra possessions to being able to manage the game better?

Very vital, I think the extra possessions gave us more momentum as a team. I think it let us be ourselves and play with the confidence that we usually play with.

Lich got 23 valuable points combined from Germans Marian Schick and Simon Kutzschmar. How soothing is it too know that you can take a breather on the bench and know you can put the game into their hands?

I mean its always a good feeling when you have guys on your team that are like that, who can take over a game at any point in time and can change the rhythm. Schick can definitely change the rhythm, He’s a force, He’s hard to guard and Simon just plays hard, He has the skills and the IQ for the game, and they both really understand the game, which makes them both dominant basketball players. So it feels good.

You had a monster game scoring 28 points and grabbing 19 boards. Was this your best game of the season?

I would say this was one of my better games. The team put a lot of trust and focus on me, which I definitely appreciate. They wanted me to “attack” every time and it felt good to contribute and help bring the victory home.

Did you have an extra motivation going into the game since so much was riding on the line for the team?

A little, the frustration of us taking the losses in the beginning of the play downs, that had a lot to do with my motivation. And I just wanted to win, so bad.

When so many teammates are contributing so well, does it put less pressure on your game to have the need to perform which gets you into a good game flow without having to overthink?

I understand what you are saying, but no. Every moment of every game is pressure for me. I put that pressure on myself that is just the type of player I have been trained to be.

You have stepped it up a notch in the play downs. Has your game reached a new level in the last month?

Thank you!, but I don’t know man. I feel like I have developed more as a player. But as far as reached a new level, I’ll leave that for the fans to decide.

Can the Licher Baskets Baeren top this win against Speyer with something special next weekend in the last game against Wurzburg?

I hope so, because Wurzburg also beat us in the play downs, so it would be nice to take that win back to Lich.

No real surprises in the NBA playoffs, but the Boston Celtics did steal a game at home with Isaiah Thomas netting 42 points in the game. Is there anyway Boston can get by the Atlanta Hawks?

Yes, I think its definitely possible. In general with basketball, anything can happen, its such an unpredictable sport.

Prince was big in another generation, but did he have any influence in your music taste when you were growing up?

R.I.P. Prince. But no, I was too young lol.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was “The Ant Man”. I thought it was a good movie.

Thanks Lamar for the chat.

 

Elijah Allen is a 26 year old 195cm swing man from Columbus, Ohio that is playing his fourth professional season in Germany and second with Lich. He started his basketball career at NW Missouri St. (NCAA2) in 2007 where he played until 2011 playing a total of 103 NCAA games and as a senior played 26 games: 14.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.1apg, FG: 44.8%, 3Pts: 23.1%, FT: 74.8%. He came to Germany in 2012 and played his first two seasons for the VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) and in the 2013-2014 season played 26 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 68.4%. Last season for the Licher Basket Baeren he played 28 games: 10.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 72.2% He spoke to German Hoops after the 94-86 win against the BIS Baskets Speyer.

 

 

Congrats Elijah in helping the Licher Basket Baeren in the Pro B. What kind of feeling do you have helping keep Lich in the Pro B for a second straight season?

Hello Miles, Thank you for the interview. Keeping Lich in the Pro B is very important for the youth for next season. We have some talented players and in Pro B the players can use the time to get experience and get better while playing at a decent level. I am very proud of our team for the effort we gave last night in our final home game.

What was more difficult for you personally helping keep Lich in the league last season or this season?

The most challenging thing that I faced this year was having to accept that we were playing in play downs and not playoffs. We lost some really close games this season in the final seconds and ultimately that put us in the bottom positions. Being 1 win/shot away from making the playoffs was hard for me to accept.

How can you explain from a players standpoint what kind of feeling you get keeping a team in the league opposed to winning a title. You didn´t win a title, but can call keeping the team in the league also a success?

Keeping the team in the league is definitely a success. The owners and players pay money for us to do our job and the last thing we want is to drop a league and let them down. We know that we didn’t deserve to be in the position that we were in but that’s how the game goes.

How proud are you of the team after the lousy start to the play downs scoring 48 points in the first game against Wurzburg and losing the second game against Speyer and now winning it´s third in a row?

I am very proud of our team the way that we have fought in the play downs. Wurzburg and Speyer are good teams that were also in a bad position. Both teams can win any night but had there ups and downs this season. It’s sad that one of those two teams have to drop. They both have quality players and good coaches.

Lich averaged 92 points in the first two wins against Speyer, but scored only 77 points in the loss in the third game. How much revenge was on your mind after the last loss to Speyer?

There was a lot of revenge on my mind. After they beat us they went on and won two more games against Wurzburg which fueled them with a lot of confidence. They really did a great job fighting the past few games.

It was a tight game, but Lich won all four quarters if you count the 30-30 third quarter. Was this a good 40 minute basketball game for the Licher Baskets Baeren?

We played our pace for about 32min of the game. I am very happy for the effort that we gave.

The game was a real battle in the second half, but Lich had the lead for the most part. What do you feel was key for not letting Speyer get over the hump?

Woodmore and Williamson are two really good players and in my opinion deserve a chance in the Pro A. I think both players need to be pushed at a high level to reach their full potential. Containing both of them is a really hard task so the key was to try and not let the others become factors in the game.

How vital were the 21 turnovers that Lich forced Speyer and seven extra possessions to being able to manage the game better?

The turnovers we forced came from us playing at a high rhythm the whole game. Once we got going on defense it gave us a good rhythm and confidence on offense.

Lich got 23 valuable points combined from Germans Marian Schick and Simon Kutzschmar. How soothing is it too know that you can take a breather on the bench and know you can put the game into their hands?

Marian and Simon have been key factors for us all season. Both are very confident players and give us a good balance on the defensive and offensive end. It has been fun playing with them this year.

You had a solid game scoring 19 points. Was it difficult for you going into the game having had a monster 34 point game against Saarlouis?

I don’t feel it was difficult going into the game after scoring 34 points. Every game will be different and teams always adjust to how a player is playing. I just wanted to do whatever it took to win the game so we could keep our team in the league.

When so many teammates are contributing so well, does it put less pressure on your game to have the need to perform which gets you into a good game flow without having to overthink?

When everyone is contributing it makes the game a whole lot easier. It gives less pressure than when constantly trying to score to keep the team in the game.

Can the Licher Baskets Baeren top this win against Speyer with something special next weekend in the last game against Wurzburg?

Next weekend will be a no pressure situation for both clubs and I would not be surprised if both teams decide to have the younger guys who have deserved minutes get a chance to play a bit.

No real surprises in the NBA playoffs, but the Boston Celtics did steal a game at home with Isaiah Thomas netting 42 points in the game. Is there anyway Boston can get by the Atlanta Hawks?

I actually would like the Celtics to win this series. I always have to root for the Ohio guys (Jared Sullinger).

Prince was big in another generation, but did he have any influence in your music taste when you were growing up?

I was never a big fan of Prince. I respect what he has done for the music industry and the culture but I have never really connected with his songs.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Jungle Book.

Thanks Elijah for the chat.

 

Andrew Jones is a 32 year old 191cm shooting guard that has been a professional basketball player since 2007 and has returned back to the Dresden Titans this season. He played at Miles(NCAA2) and has played in Germany for most of his professional career with four seasons with the Dresden Titans and three seasons with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). He also gained experience playing with teams like Marietta Storm (SEBL), BC Celtics (SEBL), C.B. Aridane (Spain-EBA) and Universidad Tecnologica Equinoc. Quito (Ecuador-National League). Last season he played for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 19,9ppg, 6,5rpg and 3,9apg. He spoke to German Hoops before game one of the Pro B semi-finals against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

 

Congrats Andrew on the huge 93-80 victory against BG Karlsruhe and sweep reaching the Pro B semi-finals. How much of an urgency did the team have going into game two to end the series at home?

Thanks Miles!!! Karlsruhe is a strong team. We wanted to finish the series at our home. It would have been difficult going back to their place.

It´s been a few days since the sweep, but has the feeling sunk in that you defeated the best Pro B south team in the regular season?

Actually throughout the years, the first seeds have not won the ProB. So we knew that it could be done. We just had to focus because they were number one for a reason.

Have you felt extra energy within the city of Dresden or will that first happen when you are Pro B champs?

There is a lot of energy in the city now. Our arena is filled every home game. The city of Dresden is having a big year in sports. Dynamo just been promoted, DSC are looking to repeat and we are making moves toward the finals.

How proud are you of the team that they were able to really control the game from the start and carry it until the final buzzer?

I’m very proud. We compete very hard in practice and it shows in the game. It’s always good to see your hard work paying off.

When you look back at the short series against BG Karlsruhe, what do you feel was key for the sweep?

Rebounds was the key. Those guys can really rebound the ball. We had to limit their extra shot opportunities.

Do you feel that if Marcus Smallwood had been able to play in game two that there could have been a significant change in the outcome or would the team had been able to solve that adequately?

We solved it the first game when he was there. However, Smallwood is a rebound machine. Him not being there in game two did give us an extra edge.

Your teammate David Sturner is a very humble guy and would never comment that anything was different in his game in this series, but honestly did the American take a further step in his game in these two games?

He has been playing like this for a while now. Its just being noticed even more because the stage is bigger.

The playoffs continue and this is the farthest you have ever come in the playoffs. How confident are you that this fairytale story will continue through Frankfurt?

Its just great to know we have the opportunity to compete for the final two positions in the league and potentially win the championship. I am confident that my team will give everything they got against Frankfurt. We have to, they are a good team!

You had 22 points in the loss in Dresden and 0 points in the loss in Frankfurt. Will you be extra aggressive to make amends for your performance in Frankfurt some months ago?

I will play to the flow of the game. My role is slightly different this year. If I score 20 and a win I am good. If I score 5 and a win I am good. I just want to make sure I play hard regardless.

The Dresden Titans have scored 80 points or more in the last 17 games stating back to the loss against BG Karlsruhe. How do you explain this amazing consistency?

Coach Clauss wants us to run. So we run, simple as that.

Now the Dresden Titans face the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. What kind of a series can we await?

 I believe each game will be a dogfight for both teams. They have a very good organization in Frankfurt. They produce solid players. It shows in their playing style.

The Dresden Titans lost both games by a total of eight points. Are the Titans a better crunch time team now?

I will say we have been battle tested throughout the second half of the season. So we know what to look for when the game is on the line.

The Fraport Skyliners Juniors have a very potent offense, but so does Dresden, but would you agree whichever teams wants it more on the defensive end will win the series?

That is definitely the key to the series! The best defense will definitely get to the championship.

Who would win a game today the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls or the 2015-2016 Golden State Warroirs?

The Bulls no question! They were too strong mentally.

What was the last movie that you saw?

 Daredevil (Tv Show)

 

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

 

Daniel Berger is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Medford, Oregon playing his rookie season with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProB). He started his basketball career with Chemeketa community college an dthen moved to Utah State(NCAA) where he played 59 NCAA games from 2011-2014. As a senior he played with BYU-Hawaii (NCAA2) playing  20 games: 14.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 48.4%, FT: 79.2%. He spoke to German Hoops after sweeping the ScanPlus Baskets.

 

 

Daniel thanks for talking to German Hoops. Congrats on the second sweep in the playoffs for Ehingen. How good does it feel to be 4-0 in the playoffs and in the semi finals?

It feels great. We are playing well and all are having fun. I am just trying to enjoy every one of these moments.

How proud are you of your team that they were able to rebound from being swept in the regular season by the ScanPlus Baskets and now sweeping them back?

I am so proud of the team man. We responded when it was time and that shows some toughness. We are not done yet though!

Do you believe that having had that momentum from the Itzehoe series carried you to the series victory or was it more better preparation and execution this time?

 The Itzehoe series gave us confidence for sure. It was a mixture because we were prepared and focused to execute our game plan against Elchingen.

Ehingen jumped on the ScanPlus Baskets early scoring 55 points in the first half. Did you know early on that the Ehingen offense would be rolling?

We played a good half offensively and just tried to stay focused to close it out. I told the guys at half time that its playoff basketball and they will make a run. We just needed to not lose our cool and close it out.

Ehingen was captured in a very exciting fourth quarter as the ScanPlus Baskets never gave up and really challenged you. What made the play of Lorne Jackson annoying in the fourth quarter that didn´t allow you to contain him better?

He was super aggressive in the fourth. When he gets out in transition he is tough to stop.

You won the game with a huge three pointer and free throws at the end. Did you feel an extra need to step up or did you just take what the defense gave you?

 I didn´t want to force anything. Actually looking back I felt like I should have been more aggressive in the fourth quarter. But I took the open shots when I had them. We just wanted to get a quality shot every possession no matter who took it.

What do you feel ultimately won Ehingen this series against the ScanPlus Baskets?

We are all on the same page. Playing as a team and trusting each other is what won it for us. We all want each other to succeed and ultimately win. No one is out to get theirs at this point.

Did the blind on court understanding of you and Devon Moore grow a bit more with this victory?

 Devon and I play well together. The entire season we have supported each other. He is so fun to play with. Always looking to get people involved and just wants to make the right play. This series proved what we have tried to do all season.

Was this a sort of break out game for Zaire Thompson who had 13 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals? How vital was he for the team success in game two?

Zaire has been the x factor in both games of the series. His confidence is high and its really fun personally for me to watch. We all know he has it in him. His focus and determination has been awesome.

Ehingen is 4-0 in the playoffs, but with Nordlingen coming up, on what things will the team need to work on to get a good start into the semi-finals?

Nordlingen is a good team that is going to be ready to play. We are going to have to bring it when we play them. At this point its whoever wants it more. Getting on lose balls, getting rebounds, and determined defense is what is going to win the game.

The Giants Nordlingen are up next who upset top ranked team Iserlohn. How do you explain the success of a team that has the thinnest rotation in the Pro B?

They are relentless and confident. The second half of the season has been great for them. They believe their team should be here and so do we. Should make for a great series.

Ehingen split the season series against Nordlingen, but have home court advantage. What will be key in advancing to the final?

Like I said before, the game winning plays like loose balls and rebounds will be key. The aggressor usually is the one who comes out on top. We have to remember that and do a lot of the same things we have been doing.

The Golden State Warriors recently got the NBA regular season record of 73 wins. Who would win a game today the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls or Golden State Warriors?

 I am not sure who would win in a game. The two eras are different. That being said I don´t think I could bet against Michael Jordan.

Where does the 2016 Villanova final win rank up in all-time most exciting games that you have seen?

That shot was incredible. Literally a shot every basketball player dreams of. Jenkins taught me something when he said he thinks every shot he takes is going in.

What was the last movie that you saw?

 I actually just got home from watching the new jungle book movie. Before that it was white men cant jump.

 

Thanks Daniel for the chat.

 

Quinton Mcduffie is a 25 year old 197cm forward from Suffolx, Virginia. He got his college basketball experience at Va.Wesleyan (NCAA3), Alabama St. (NCAA) and Chowan Univ. (NCAA2). He started his professional basketball career in 2013 with the Portsmouth Cavaliers (APBL): 6 games: 24.6ppg, 6.0rpg, then moved to TLG-13 NGO S.Tulga (Mongolia-MBA) 21.9ppg, 9.2rpg. Last season he played with La Gallofa Cantbasket 04 (Spain-EBA) playing 18 games: 10.9ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 49.7%, FT: 70.8%. This season he played with Parque Sur de Concepcion del Uruguay (Argentina-TFB) playing 14 games averaging 8,0ppg and 3,5rpg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Quinton thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and did you catch the 2016 NCAA final?

 I am currently in Huntsville, Alabama training for next season. I had the chance to catch the second half the championship game. I have to say that it was the most exciting game in the NCAA this season regular season and post season.

Where do you rank that finish with Villanova hitting the buzzer beater in all-time best NCAA finals?

I would rank this game probably second to the N.C. State v. Houston championship game in 1983, when Coach Jimmy V’s team won at the buzzer against a stacked Houston team. Both games where very entertaining to say the least.

What do you know about the German basketball scene? Do you have friends that are balling there at the moment?

I know a great deal about the German basketball community. It is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe, no question! I have had a lot of friends who have/ are playing in Germany. From all of the information that I know about German basketball, it is one of the most respected leagues in the world to play in.

If you had the opportunity would want to display your basketball abilities there?

If I was granted the opportunity to display my talents in Germany, I would definitely be excited and prepared to take on the hefty challenge.

Explain your game in a few sentences and why you could be an asset to any professional basketball team?

I am a very versatile forward, who can be a matchup nightmare for taller-slower forwards. A couple things that I can do well on the floor, that can help a variety of professional teams are: Score, pass, stretch the floor, and finish at a high level. I feel as though these attributes can translate on any level of professional basketball.

You have been a professional basketball player now for three seasons that has taken you to Mongolia, Spain and Argentina. Do you already feel yourself as a basketball world traveler at age 25?

Well, In my three seasons playing professional basketball I have played not only in three different countries but on three different Continents as well, Asia, Europe, and South America. I feel like a journeyman at this point in my career. And I love every moment of it. I consider it a blessing to travel and see the globe.

You played this season with Parque Sur de Concepcion del Uruguay (Argentina-TNA), but had to leave in December 2015. Did this end up as not being the right situation for you?

 First off I would like to thank Club Parque Sur for giving me the opportunity to play and display my talents on the court this past season. I just feel as though this past season I played very efficient offensively on court but the team wanted to go in a different direction to start the new year, So we partied ways. I am very grateful for my experience in Argentina this season.

You played 18 games averaging 8,0ppg and 3,5rpg. What overall experience was it for you playing in the second division in Argentina?

 It was great a experience playing alongside alot of older veteran players. I was able to take away a lot of things that can help me next season on and off the court.

How overwhelming was it being the only American on the squad? Did the players already look up to you because you were an American?

It was actually a great experience being the only American on the team. Yes, the whole city of CdelU was amazed to see a foreigner walking around their city.

Last season you played for La Gallofa Cantbasket 04 (Spain-EBA) playing 18 games: 10.9ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 49.7%, FT: 70.8%. You had a solid season in the fifth Spanish division. Often Americans that had played in the EBA were able to move up a level or move to better leagues in Europe. Do you feel like you missed a golden opportunity making the jump to another higher league in Europe?

I feel like I had a solid season in Spain last year, but I do not feel as though I missed my opportunity. At this point in my career I feel like my time is coming and I just have to trust God and keep working hard and everything will pay off.

How did you enjoy your first full season in Europe? How do you feel did your game develop further in the EBA?

 I loved Spain. That season I was able to pick up a lot of good habits that I used while in Argentina this season, as far as, dieting and leading a healthier lifestyle.

AS a rookie you played for TLG-13 NGO S.Tulga (Mongolia-MBA, starting five): 21.9ppg, 9.2rpg. What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were very far away from Suffolk, Virginia?

My biggest wake up call would most definitely have to be the weather. I landed in Ulanbatar, Mongolia on my birthday, it was -44 degrees. I lived in Chicago, Illinois a little bit growing up and I had never experienced weather that cold.

What one experience in Mongolia on and off the court will you forever keep in your mind?

One of my most memorable experiences from Mongolia would have to be signing autographs with my other American teammates. My teammate and I walked into a local mall and caused a may lay as soon as we walked in. We signed hundreds of autographs and took pictures with all the kids. Very cool highlight in my short career.

You played for three different schools with Va.Wesleyan (NCAA3), Alabama St. (NCAA1) and Chowan Univ. (NCAA2). Do you feel like having had the chance to play for numerous schools that this had an impact on your development as a player on and off the court?

 Yes, I am one of the few players in the country that played on all three levels of the NCAA basketball. This helped me grow as a person as well as a player. I think that God was preparing me for the rigorous grind of professional basketball.

How did head coach Brent Vincent groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Chowan State(NCAA2)?

Honestly Coach Vincent was the best Coach that I have ever played under. He helped me grow as a man, and I cannot thank him enough for what he did. And this year he turned a team that was 0-16 in conference play, just two years ago, into a 20+ win team this past season. He is definitely a Division 1 head coach.

As a freshman you won the ODAC tournament with Va.Wesleyan (NCAA3). What memories do you have of this run?

Such an epic run. I just remember how well our team came together when it mattered the most. We played 4 games in 5 days to win the championship.

Some of the older NBA players that played at different times are having a hard time giving Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors credit for their success saying they might not have had that success 20-30 years ago. Are these former players just jealous or why can´t they just give credit where it´s due?

 I think its a matter of jealousy mixed with a little bit of ignorance. Most of the older guys would have a hard time playing in the NBA today, so I feel there should be NO comparisons either way. We should just sit back and watch GREATNESS as it unfolds. Its a pleasure to watch the warriors this season.

Recently ESPN made a top 100 greatest NBA players of alltime poll putting Lebron at #3 before legends Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and BIll Russell. Do you see that as being justified?

Unfortunately I didnt get the chance to see Bill Russell, Larry Burd or Magic play, but from my vantage point looks like ESPN got it right lol. I’ve watched LeBron James play throughout his whole career and I only seen two people better than him. Micheal Jordan and Allen Iverson.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last thing that I saw was the OJ Simpson Television series on Fox! Very good watch. Although its not a movie.

Thanks Quinton for the chat.

 

Brandon Lockhart is a 25 year old 185cm guard from St Louis, Missouri that is playing hiss econd professional season and first with German team Giants Nordlingen. AS a rookie he played for BK Levicki Patrioti (Slovakia-Extraliga) playing 34 games: Score-5(16.7ppg), 3.8rpg, Assists-5(4.3apg), Steals-1(3.0spg), FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 28.5%, FT: 78.9%. He played at Drury (NCAA2) from 2009-2013 and as a senior played 35 games averaging 12.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 6.1apg, 2.9spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 77.1%. He spoke to German Hoops after the thrill sweep against Iserlohn.

 

 

Brandon congrats on the sweep of number one team Iserlohn. The fairy tale continues. What do you feel has been the most special part of the Nordlingen fairy tale this season?

Thanks Miles!! I think that the bond we have created as a team on and off the court is the most special part to me. We enjoy playing basketball together but also get along really well off the court.

The Nordlingen Giants are now 4-1 in the playoffs and are sitting in the semi-finals. How has the team progressed in the playoffs since the 2 game losing streak to end the season?

The two game losing streak to close the season really opened our eyes to things we needed to improve if we wanted to be successful. Since those last regular season losses, we have been better on defense and securing rebounds.

How important was it setting the tone in the first quarter by scoring 24 points as a team and showing Iserlohn that it would have to be a battle for them to escape home with the series tied 1-1?

 Getting off to a good start was really important because we knew they were going to try and come out and be the aggressor. So we just wanted to withstand whatever they threw at us and not let them get rolling.

In the second quarter after a tighter first quarter, Nordlingen was able to break away and lead 52-37. Did Iserlohn get a good dose of true Nordlingen basketball that makes it difficult for the opponent to react to?

In the second quarter, our defense improved a little bit which allowed us to get out on transition a little more for easier buckets. When we are able to get out on transition, we are a tough team to stop.

With 20 minutes to go, and a 52-37 lead, what was the most vital thing that head coach Mario Matic told the team not to forget to do in the last 20 minutes?

 He did not want us to forget that we are playing a really good team. They were the best team in the North this year for a reason, so we knew they weren’t going to go down without a fight.

In the second half the Nordlingen Giants wore down Iserlohn never letting them get closer than 10 points. How vital was the last 20 minutes in showing the team one more time just how good they are closing out the a top ranked team despite having a thinner bench?

A thin rotation is something we’ve been up against all season so it’s not anything new for us. But closing the game out at home was really important because having to go back to their place on shorter days rest with a thin bench would have been a tough challenge to overcome.

You really have stepped up your game in the playoffs and taken another step in the Iserlohn series with 25 points in game one and now 24 points and 11 assists. You didn´t have your best shooting day, but does the aggressiveness and getting to the free throw line and making 16 of 19 free throws make up a bit for the rest

 I just go out each game trying to do whatever I can to help my team be successful. As long as we win, I’m not too concerned with how many points I score. I would have liked to have had a better shooting day, but attempting that many FTs definitely can cover up a poor shooting performance.

Besides wanting your team to do well, do you feel that this is your time now to show everyone that you are a top guard at the Pro B level?

Yes, it would be nice to be considered one of the top guards in a league filled with a bunch of good guards. But I am more concerned with being a part of one of the top teams in the league.

You had an amazing 9 steals. The total number of steals doesn´t always measure the total worth of a defensive performance as often there are other things done not seen on the stat sheet to stimulate the defense, but was this your best defensive game this season?

 9 steals is an accomplishment but if I went back and reviewed films from previous games, I’m sure I would find better defensive games.

The Giants Nordlingen now face Ehingen and will attempt the next upset. Nordlingen split the season series with them. What kind of series can we await?

I think it’ll be a fun, tough series played by two good teams. We have played each other twice this season so both teams know what to expect from the other.

What will be key to having further success against a very talented Ehingen team?

Focusing on defense and finishing defensive possessions with a rebound will be extremely important to whether we win or lose this series.

You had a good series against them scoring 16 points twice. Will your adrenaline go up another notch when game one arises and how good do you already feel now about going out and doing work?

 I feel good about this series and will definitely just go out and play to the best of my ability. I’m confident that as long as we play our game, we will have a chance to win the series

The Golden State Warriors recently got the NBA regular season record of 73 wins. Who would win a game today the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls or Golden State Warriors?

Bulls! Hard for me to go against MJ

Kobe Bryant recently played his last game. He ended his illustrious career with 60 points. What was your favorite Kobe moment in his career?

I think the game winner he hit against Steve Nash and the Suns in the Western Conference Finals in 2006 is one I’ll never forget. He hit another big shot before that to send the game into OT. I am a big Steve Nash fan, so it was tough to watch that

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Night Before. A comedy with Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen.

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

In the last weeks, do or die games have been seemingly as frequent on the menu for the Weissenhorn Youngsters and the Fraport Skyliners Juniors as dunks were for Tomas Dimsa in the crushing defeat by the Beko BBL club Fraport Skyliners over the Mitteldeutscher BC last weekend where the Lithuanian seemed to roam on the rim all day long like a white stork does bringing harmony to his country and people wherever they nest. Weissenhorn had to do it twice against Wolfenbuettel and were saved in game three with a magnificent 24 point game by German U-20 national player David Kramer who nailed big shots in crunch time. Only 72 hours earlier, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had to win at home after they had to recover from a bitter 107-38 loss on the road with a major depleted roster as six players were idle and in London and missing an average of 76 points, but in game two the whole crew was on board while Weissenhorn was without key players Nils Mittmann, David Kramer and Joschka Ferner. In the game two win by the Fraport Skyliners Juniors, they were able to continue their better defense as of late holding Weissenhorn to 64 points and letting their opponent cough up the ball 25 times while containing top Pro B assist man Chris Anderson better in the second half. After the glorious Frankfurt victory, their three point specialist Travis Thompson who dropped 36 points and 10 three´s against Lich this season stated that he wasn´t ready to travel the 4,651 miles back home to Alaska yet. In game three on a rare Tuesday night, both the Fraport Skyliners Juniors and Weissenhorn Youngsters had everyone meaningful on board and had to prove who was more in do or die mode as the home team did more things better and Weissenhorn had absolute no remedy against the lethal three point shooting of the Fraport Skyliners Juniors as they advanced to the Pro B semi-finals with a 109-93 victory earning a date with the Dresden Titans. Do or die games belong to the normal routine for a basketball player, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to win the last battle in the trenches in this series. “Do or die games is why we play the game. It is a great feeling to be able to win a meaningful game like this. We had a great first half and shot well. In the second half, we played ok, but could of played better. We moved a step closer to winning the title”, stressed Paderborn native Niklas Kiel. Weissenhorn had their moments in the second half, but just couldn´t stay with the Fraport Skyliners Juniors for 40 minutes. “Congrats to Frankfurt. They played very well and defended well for 40 minutes. We weren´t ready to go into the game and Frankfurt made it difficult for us in the first half. They came out and surprised us. Having to comeback the way we did cost us a lot of energy. If we would of played the way we did in the second half the whole game, then the game would have turned out differently. Frankfurt was just too strong and disciplined. It was a tough way to end the season”, stressed German U-20 player David Kramer. “We played a very good first half as key wasn´t only our good shooting, but had a better mix of inside out game. When we are shooting well then it is always more difficult to defend us. Our intensity in the first half was the best this season. It was a bit up and down in the second half, but we still finished well”, warned Fraport Skyliners Juniors head coach Eric Detlev.

As is so often the case both Frankfurt and Weissenhorn had their runs in the first quarter, but after 10 minutes, the potent Frankfurt offense rattled off 27 points while Weissenhorn had only 19 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors jumped all over Weissenhorn early getting a 7-2 lead already displaying their disciplined offense and shot making precision. Lithuanian Tomas Dimsa wasted no time scoring in bunches as he scored on a lay in and scorched home a step back three pointer while Alaska native Travis Thompson stayed alert on the offensive board catching a Dimsa air ball and getting the put back. This quick Frankfurt strike didn´t rattle Weisenhorn in the least as they reacted with a 8-2 run taking their first lead of the game at 10-9. In the Weissenhorn run, the club coached by Danny Jansson stayed aggressive getting free throws from Germans Nils Mittmann and David Kramer and lay ins from German talent Joschka Ferner and Mittmann. Then it was time for Frankfurt to make their next run as they went on a 7-0 run to retake the 16-10 lead as they got some stops and a three pointer and free throws from German Max Merz and free throws from Niklas Kiel. A trey by Ferner and a Marvin Oumuvwie lay in cut the Frankfurt advantage to 18-15. However Frankfurt stayed consistent on offense and constructed their versatile play early as Johannes Richter scored inside twice and ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb nailed a three pointer to end the first frame. “Frankfurt moved the ball well and hit many open shots. On defense, Frankfurt did a good job pressuring them and not letting them get in a comfort zone and forced them to tough shots”, stressed Fraport Skyliners guard Phillip Scrubb. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 44% from the field and 30% from outside while Weissenhorn was shooting 54% from the field and 50% from outside. Frankfurt had the 10-6 rebound edge and three turnovers while Weissenhorn had seven turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to up their game a level higher extending their lead to 20 plus points as Weissenhorn had no clue how to combat the hot Frankfurt shooting. Weissenhorn played very strong in the first few minutes cutting the Frankfurt lead to 32-25 as Nils Mittmann made a high falling rainbow from the top of the key, Chris Anderson who was being closed down inside so he shifted gears forcing turnovers and running the transition and feeding Kramer for the lay up and the German then made free throws. However this quick burst of energy and offense was stopped by Frankfurt as they went on a devastating 18-5 run to totally open the game and lead 50-30. The three point touch of the Fraport Skyliners Juniors dominated in this phase as Travis Thompson nailed two, while Merz and Kiel also scored from downtown. Kiel also hit a running hook shot something that ex Skyliner Ilian Evtimov had in his arsenal during the 2007-2009 years. Johannes Richter also made an alley-oop dunk as Merz made a floater that turned out to be a pass that the German rammed home. Frankfurt also upped their aggressiveness on defense as Weissenhorn got into a rut and never recovered. Anderson and Marcel Pongo scored in the last minute while Zeeb dropped another three for good measure as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors lead 54-35 at halftime. “Their play looked like us. We are one unit. The Pro B players practice with us, work hard and they play great team basketball. They were playing good defense where everyone was helping each other. It was a do or die game so everyone knew what to do”, warned Fraport Skyliner guard Jordan Theodore. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 53% from the field and 47% from the three point line while Weissenhorn was shooting 55% from the field and 50% from the three point line. Weissenhorn had the 15-12 rebound edge, but 14 turnovers while Frankfurt had five turnovers.

In the third quarter, Weissenhorn stayed on the heels of the Fraport Skyliners, but whenever they seemed to be crawling closer, they were squashed by a huge three pointer and their poor free throw shooting also slowed down their comeback. Also Tomas Dimsa was a pest for Weissenhorn as he scored 11 points in the quarter and kept their comeback at bay. Johannes Richter started off the  second half with a free throw which was followed by a Dimsa trey which extended the Frankfurt advantage to 57-36. Weissenhorn then found some daylight going on a 8-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 57-44. In the run, it was team leader David Kramer who scored inside and hit a three pointer. Anderson then dropped a bomb from outside. Frankfurt then went on a 10-4 run to extend their lead to 67-48. In the run, it was Dimsa that took control scoring eight points including nailing two three pointers and taking a sweet dish from Merz on the alley-opp dunk and Richter connected on a baby hook shot. Weissenhorn continued to do an excellent job executing on offense and staying with Frankfurt, but couldn´t get consistent defensive stops. After being contained well inside in the first half, Anderson got free for two buckets inside to cut the Frankfurt lead to 72-57. However Frankfurt always had somebody that hit a three pointer as this time it was role player Lennart Okeke to extend the Frankfurt lead to 75-59. Weissenhorn was still focused and not thinking about summer as they closed out the third quarter with an important 6-2 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 77-64. In the run, Weissenhorn got valuable production from Kramer on a pull up jumper, but had their free throw phobia in full swing as Marcell Pongo, Ferner and ex TV Langen forward Tom Alte connected only on one of two free throws. “Dimsa gave us a lot of energy and security in a bad phase that we were having. We took advantage of Weissenhorn not shooting their free throws well”, added Niklas Kiel. “Dimsa had a good game and hurt us with his shot. We contained him well in the fourth quarter, but it was already too late”, stressed David Kramer. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were shooting 50% from the field and 52% from the parking lot while Weissenhorn was shooting 58% from the field and 45% from the parking lot. Weissenhorn had the 21-20 rebound edge, but 14 turnovers while Frankfurt had seven turnovers.

The fourth quarter became a massive shootout that Frankfurt won 32-29. Weissenhorn was losing energy and still couldn´t find a way to get consistent stops. David Kramer nailed 15 points in the fourth quarter cutting the Frankfurt lead to near 10 points on many occasions, but the Weissenhorn defense just couldn´t get stops. Merz started off the fourth quarter with free throws, but Weissenhorn reacted with a 4-0 run as 18 year old Lukas Rosenbohm scored inside and Kramer scored on a lay in to cut the Frankfurt lead to 79-68. Weissenhorn seemed to be so close, but then again so far away as Frankfurt went on a crushing 6-0 run always having an answer as this time it was Merz hitting a trey and Zeeb making three free throws extending the Frankfurt lead to 85-68. Kramer continued to be the work horse making a trey and put back, but each time met with a Richter three pointer and Kiel lay in extending the Frankfurt advantage to 90-75. In the next two minutes Kramer was able to cut the Frankfurt lead to 13 points with two three pointers and a runner to 98-85, but each time Frankfurt had an answer as their offensive versatility was simply too overwhelming for Weissenhorn to combat. Frankfurt closed out the game and series with a 11-5 run as Dimsa finished on a fingertip roll and Okeke nailed his second three pointer of the game while Weissenhorn got a tip in dunk from Omuvwie and a Rosenbohm lay in. “We showed that we are a good shooting team and that every guy does his role and can carry the team. Okeke hit big shots and it is important to get security from our role players”, added Niklas Kiel. “At halftime we spoke about coming together and I felt we did. Everybody fought until the end not only me. Anderson continued to try to find every player and Omuvwie continued to go hard for the rebounds. We couldn´t get stops and they took advantage of us not being able to get the easiest points from the free throw line”, added David Kramer. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors had six guys in double figures and were led by Tomas Dimsa with 22 points. Max Merz contributed 16 points and nine assists. Niklas Kiel and Travis Thompson chipped in with 14 points a piece and Johannes Richter had 13 points and Lennart Okeke had 10 points. The Weissenhorn Youngsters were led by David Kramer with 28 points. Chris Anderson added 13 points, seven rebounds and seven assists while Marvin Omuvwie had 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 52% from the field and 53% from outside while Weissenhorn shot 57% from the field and 40% from outside. Weissenhorn won the rebound duel 30-27, but coughed up the ball 17 times while Frankfurt had 10 turnovers.

Jordan Talbert is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Little Rock, Arkansas that is playing his second professional season with the Giants Nordlingen. He came to Germany as a rookie last season and played with the Giants TSV 1861 Noerdlingen (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 26 games: 21.6ppg, 9.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-4(1.5bpg), FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college career at Missouri SO(NCAA2) from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 11.7ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 70.1%. He spoke to German Hoops after the sweep of Iserlohn reaching the Pro B semi-finals.

 

 

Jordan congrats on the sweep of number one team Iserlohn. The fairy tale continues. What do you feel has been the most special part of the Nordlingen fairy tale this season?

 The best part of this season has for sure been the bond that our team has built. To add 5 new players to our team from last season and develop the chemistry we have on and off the court is incredible.

The Nordlingen Giants are now 4-1 in the playoffs and are sitting in the semi-finals. How has the team progressed in the playoffs since the 2 game losing streak to end the season?

I think those 2 loses gave us a chance to regroup, refocus, and recognize that we have play at a much higher level if we want to be successful in the playoffs.

How important was it setting the tone in the first quarter by scoring 24 points as a team and showing Iserlohn that it would have to be a battle for them to escape home with the series tied 1-1?

We knew we wanted to have a great start to the game. If we gave them confidence early it would’ve been tough for us to win. The supporters were also huge for us. They gave us a tremendous amount of energy and motivation.

In the second quarter after a tighter first quarter, Nordlingen was able to break away and lead 52-37. Did Iserlohn get a good dose of true Nordlingen basketball that makes it difficult for the opponent to react to?

We played well in the second quarter. I think they got a little frustrated with how the game was going and we were able to take advantage of that.

With 20 minutes to go, and a 52-37 lead, what was the most vital thing that head coach Mario Matic told the team not to forget to do in the last 20 minutes?

 He just told us to continue to play our game and not to lose focus. A 15 point lead is not much to rest on especially against a good team.

In the second half the Nordlingen Giants wore down Iserlohn never letting them get closer than 10 points. How vital was the last 20 minutes in showing the team one more time just how good they are closing out the a top ranked team despite having a thinner bench?

Closing out the game the way we did is just an example of our toughness, physically and mentally. We were exhausted but we wanted to win so we pushed through as a team to finish the game.

You had another solid game scoring 15 points and having 11 rebounds. What kind of a feeling do you have not only after a win like this, but also once again seeing the nonstop contribution from everyone never letting down during the course of the game?

It’s a great feeling. We play our best basketball when everyone is involved. For everyone to have confidence in themselves and each other to go out there and contribute is the reason we are still playing right now.

After a big game like this do you feel that the team recognizes your stellar defensive game with 3 steals and 3 blocks as well?

Of course I do. I think my team knows that I take pride in playing defense and that I will always have their back on that end of the floor.

You and Brandon Lockhart were the lock down guys on defense, but the team also got solid support from others. It seems like the offense of you two is the most vital for the team, but how vital could this defensive consistency be for the team in the series against the talented Ehingen team?

Our defense is really the foundation of our team. If we get stops the better our offense is because we get to run which is something we like to do.

The Giants Nordlingen now face Ehingen and will attempt the next upset. Nordlingen split the season series with them. What kind of series can we await?

Ehingen is a very good team. They have a lot of good pieces but I’m confident in my team and our ability. I don’t know what to expect from the series but I do expect the Giants to come ready play.

What will be key to having further success against a very talented Ehingen team?

Our defense and rebounding. If we do those things well we have a chance against anyone.

You had a good series against them scoring 16 points twice. Will your adrenaline go up another notch when game one arises and how good do you already feel now about going out and doing work?

 I’m definitely motivated right now. I don’t want this season to end just yet. I know that whatever I did against them in the regular season means nothing if I don’t help the team in the playoffs.

The Golden State Warriors recently got the NBA regular season record of 73 wins. Who would win a game today the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls or Golden State Warriors?

I would pick the Bulls. I would never pick against Jordan and Pippen in their prime.

Kobe Bryant recently played his last game. He ended his illustrious career with 60 points. What was your favorite Kobe moment in his career?

 My favorite Kobe moment would be game 6 of the 2008 finals when they lost against the Celtics by 40. I was never a Kobe fan but I have the upmost for him as a player. He’s drive and dedication is definitely something that inspires me.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The Martian.

Thanks Jordan for the chat.