The perfect Team Germany (4-0) continue to roll as they dismantled Team Serbia 93-82 to reach the quarterfinals where they will have a tough test against team Australia. Team Germany had another potent game from their 2 bigs Hannes Steinbach (206-F/C-2006) and Eric Reibe who combined for 48 points and 27 rebounds. There was no stopping their play inside while the team also controlled the boards easily. “Steinbach and Reibe are very talented. They form a very strong duo. They have a big future ahead of them”, warned Janne Muller. They also got a massive game from Alba Berlin guard Jack Kayil who supplied 20 points, 6 boards and 8 dimes while Texas Tech (NCAA) guard Christian Anderson had a horrible shooting day at 2/11, but instead took over the playmaking duties well dishing out 11 assists and leading the offensive attack. “We knew that Serbia was a very strong opponent. We knew them very well from the last years. We played an all around good game and were physical and aggressive on offense. We also did a good job controlling the rebounding”, stressed Telekom Baskets Bonn guard Janne Muller.
Team Germany got off rolling in the first quarter as they controlled the game and set the tone on defense being aggressive and not allowing Serbia to get into a offensive rhythm. They right away showed who owned the paint area as Hannes Steinbach and Eric Reibe scored 2 buckets a piece while Jack Kayil dropped a three pointer for good measure. However team Serbia didn´t wilt like a flower, but showed their fighting qualities which they would do until the end going on a 8-2 run to trail only 14-10. They got 2 key three´s from top Serbian guard Savo Drezgic and Andrej Kostic. Both teams showed why basketball is a game of runs as team Germany closed out the first quarter with a 9-3 run to lead 23-13 after 10 minutes. In the run, team Germany were led by Steinbach who was an absolute menace under the basket scoring 6 points while Christian Anderson connected on a trey. “It was vital that our bigs Steinbach and Reibe were dominant. We knew they could be that and we looked for that early. Both guys produced”, stressed Janne Muller.
In the second quarter it was time for team Serbia to set the tone as they exploded for 29 points and cut team Germanys lead down to 45-42 at half-time. Germany scored 22 points and probably could have had a 10 point lead at the break, but they weren´t able to control Drezgig who went on fire and was a one man wrecking crew in the second half of the second quarter scoring 7 consecutive points. “Drezgic is a very good creator for his team, but can also score himself. He played a very good game and kept his team in the game”, stated Janne Muller. In the last minute Nikola Dzepina also came through in the punch scoring 5 points and kept Serbia close with Germany. The best thing Germany did in the second quarter besides remaining consistent on the boards was get to the free throw line. They remained aggressive and 17 of their 22 points came from the free throw line. Their weakness was on the defensive end where they just couldn´t get on a roll. “We weren´t as focused anymore on the defensive end. Serbia hit tough shots and we made easy mistakes”, added Janne Muller.
In the third quarter, team Germany found back to their game and led 73-65 after 30 minutes. Their early 19-4 run gave them the 64-49 advantage and set the tone for team Germany as they would control the game until the end even if team Serbia continued to pick at the lead. In the run, Germany continued to spread the love around as Reibe continued to be a beast in the paint scoring 6 points while Steinbach remained consistent netting 5 points and Kayil continued to have his range dropping 2 three´s. However team Serbia stayed tough and kept executing well to stay around the 10 point margin as Drezgic and Tofoski nailed vital three´s. “We came out of half-time aggressive and remained focused on offense and defense. We simply played our game”, said Janne Muller.
In the fourth quarter team Germany did another really good job of managing the lead well and just executing consistently on offense. Whenever team Serbia tried to threaten, team Germany always had an answer with points. Twice Drezgic scored, but Christian Anderson answered with free throws to keep Germany ahead at 84-77 with 5,23 minutes to play. In crunch-time, Eric Reibe showed his killer instinct and nerves scoring 5 points while Declan Duru and Steinbach hit free throws to secure the win. “Our guards controlled the game and we had the great inside presence of Steinbach and Reibe. Serbia couldn´t stop it”, added Janne Muller. Hannes Steinbach led team Germany with a monster game of 23 points and 19 rebounds while Eric Reibe added 25 points and 8 boards. Jack Kayil added 20 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists while team Serbia was led by Savo Drezgic with 32 points and 11 rebounds while Stefan Plisnic added 16 points. Team Germany shot 45% from the field and 30% from outside and had 47 rebounds and 9 turnovers while team Serbia shot 40% from the field and 34% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 9 turnovers. The rest of the way doesn´t get any easier for team Germany as they now clash team Australia on Friday who crushed the Dominican Republic 106-96. Team Australia grabbed 21 offensive rebounds and displayed their pretty team basketball with 6 guys scoring in double figures. “We know Australia from the AST and 2 test games. They are a very aggressive team that play with a lot of energy. It will definitely be a fight”, warned Janne Muller.
Florian Flabb is a German coach who currently is coaching Pro B team Orange Academy and the ratiopharm Ulm NBBL team He began his coaching career as an assistant with the Art Giants and then was a head coach with the NBBL and Pro A team. He also has been an assistant coach with the German U-18 and U-20 teams. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the German U-19 World Cup team and especially about Jordan Mueller.
Thanks Florian for talking to germanhoops.com Have you followed the U-19 WM? What has been your impression of Germany with 2-0 start?
Germany’s start to the tournament has been really impressive. They’re sitting at 2–0, and what stands out most is their composure and adaptability. In the opening game against Slovenia, they were down by double digits early on but managed to turn it around with a very mature second-half performance. Hannes Steinbach was massive in that game — a 19-point, 19-rebound performance shows both talent and grit.
In the second game, they looked far more settled. Against China, they played with purpose from the opening tip — they controlled the paint, forced turnovers, and moved the ball really well. What I really like is how balanced they are. Everyone contributes, and the bench has been reliable too.
Tactically, you can see the coaching staff making smart adjustments — they don’t panic when things go wrong. Their next game against Canada will be a great measure of how far they can go. But so far, they’ve shown the kind of discipline and depth you need to make a serious run.
How do you see the chances for Germany with a medal?
I think Germany has a very realistic shot at winning a medal this year. They came into the tournament with strong momentum after winning the U18 European Championship, and they’ve carried that form into the U19s with a perfect start. What’s impressed me most is their combination of depth and composure — they can weather early deficits, as we saw against Slovenia, and they can dominate from the tip, like they did against China.
Players like Christian Anderson, Jack Kayil and Hannes Steinbach have stepped up as leaders, but it’s the overall team balance that really makes them dangerous. They’re not overly reliant on one or two players, and their bench has been consistent, which is crucial in a tournament setting.
Of course, the real tests lie ahead — especially in the knockout rounds against teams like the USA, France, or Canada. But if Germany continues to defend as well as they have, and maintain their poise in big moments, I believe they’re absolutely in the mix for a top-three finish. Right now, they’re playing like a team that expects to be on the podium.
With Ivan Kharchenkov, Germany would have been even stronger at the guard position. How will they compensate his loss?
Kharchenkov’s absence is definitely a loss — he’s a creative scorer and strong presence on the ball. But Germany has depth to cover it. Overall, Germany’s strength is in its balance and adaptability, so while Kharchenkov would have added another dimension, they’ve adjusted well.
How important are the German bigs in general? With Steinbach and Reibe, Germany have demonstrated early that they want to be impactful under the glass for 40 minutes.
The German bigs are absolutely central to their identity and success. With players like Hannes Steinbach and Eric Reibe, Germany has made it clear from the start that they want to control the paint — on both ends. Steinbach, in particular, has been a force on the boards and sets the tone with his physicality and energy. Reibe brings size and touch, giving them a solid interior presence. Their ability to dominate the glass not only limits second-chance points for opponents but also fuels Germany’s transition game. It’s a huge part of why they’ve started so strongly.
Jordan Mueller had 2 solid games with 12 points off the bench. How do you rate his first 2 games?
Jordan has made a really strong impression in his first two games. Scoring 12 points off the bench in both outings shows he’s not just contributing — he’s doing it efficiently and confidently. He’s brought great energy, shot selection, and has given Germany a reliable scoring spark when the starters sit. What stands out is his composure — he doesn’t force shots, he plays within the system, and he’s making smart decisions on both ends. For a team with medal ambitions, having a bench player like Jordan stepping up early is a major asset. He’s been one of the unsung keys to Germany’s 2–0 start.
Is it difficult for a youth player in general to come off the bench when he is used to starting for his normal team?
Absolutely — it can be a big adjustment, especially at the youth level where many players are used to being focal points on their club teams. Coming off the bench requires a shift in mindset. You have to be ready to impact the game immediately, often with less rhythm or time to settle in. It also takes maturity to accept a different role for the good of the team.
What exactly is his role in the U-19 team to Orange Academy? Is it pretty similar?
Jordan’s roles share some similarities, but there are important differences. At Orange Academy, he’s been our starting point guard—averaging 26 minutes per game and a central leadership role in orchestrating the offense in Pro B competition.With the U-19 national team, he’s come off the bench, providing a dynamic boost. His responsibility is to bring instant energy, smart playmaking. It’s less about initiating the offense and more about injecting momentum and efficiency. So while his core skills—playmaking, basketball IQ, scoring—translate across both environments, his role shifts from starter and offensive anchor at club level to impactful spark plug off the bench on the national team. That kind of adaptability is rare and extremely valuable in tournament settings.
How special of a player is he? He shows that he never lets his size get in the way of having success.
Jordan is one of those players who quietly controls the game. He sees the floor well, makes the right reads, and understands tempo better than most at his age. He can run the offense, space the floor, or pressure the ball defensively. But beyond the X’s and O’s, it’s his poise and competitiveness that stand out. He plays with a maturity and toughness that lifts the whole team.
How do you believe does Jordan take that whole situation with coming off the bench and playing off the bench behind Kayil and Anderson?
I think Jordan is handling the situation with a lot of maturity. Of course, any competitive player wants to start — especially someone like Jordan who plays a lead role at his club. But what stands out is how he’s embraced his role without letting ego get in the way. He’s come off the bench with energy, focus, and a clear understanding of what the team needs from him. That’s not always easy for young players, but Jordan seems to get that success at this level comes from buying into the system. His performances speak for themselves — he’s making an impact, earning trust, and showing he’s ready whenever his number is called.
How did you see the development of Jordan last season. He was super consistent for 3 months and cooled down a bit in the last months in the Pro B.
Jordan took a significant leap in the 2024–25 season, showing more volume and confidence. He jumped from averaging 5.8 ppg in ~17 min (2023–24) to 11.8 ppg in 25 min, while maintaining solid shooting (41 % FG, 82 % FT) and improving playmaking (3.7 apg). That three-month stretch in early season was the core of his growth—he became a reliable two-way guard who could both initiate offense and stabilize the backcourt.
Later in the season, his scoring dipped a bit—a natural fluctuation as teams adjusted to him and he faced tougher matchups. But even then, his consistency didn’t fully disappear, and his performance in knockout and tight Pro B games stayed impactful.
What was your personal favorite game of his NBBL or Pro B in 2024-2025. To be honest, I don’t really have one single favorite game. What I appreciated most was watching Jordan’s steady growth over the course of the season. He had some big performances — including buzzer beaters — but more than any one moment, it was the way he kept developing, adapting, and maturing that stood out. Seeing that progression up close and being part of his journey was something special. I’m proud of how far he’s come, and I know he’s only just getting started.
What was your fondest moment with him off the court? He seems to always have respect for everyone that he deals with? There’s not just one moment — but what stands out about Jordan off the court is how consistently respectful, humble, and grounded he is. Whether it’s with teammates, coaches, staff, he treats everyone with the same level of kindness and professionalism.
Marvin Esser (196-SF-2005) is a 19 year old 196cm forward who played with Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors last season. He began the season injured and came back in January 2025 and played 12 games averaging 1,8ppg and 2,1rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about big German center talent Hannes Steinbach.
Thanks Marvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How has your summer been?
I´m good thanks. I recently finished school and got my degree. I also had my prom. My school results were good. I was happy about it.
You had a difficult 24-25 season with injury. You missed the first half of season. How would you rate your Pro B season? I would give my Pro B season a grade 7 out of 10. It wasn´t easy coming in mid season. I´m happy that my minutes went from 6-12.
What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Frankfurt? I don´t know yet if I will remain in Frankfurt. I´m staying in contact with the Skyliners. I definitely will remain in the Frankfurt area.
When you hear the name Hannes Steinbach what is the first thing that comes to mind?
The first thing I think about is Wurzburg. I played against him the last few years. He is a very talented player with long arms and plays very well.
You played against him in the NBBL and Pro B. You don´t play same positions but is a guy like that a role model? That is hard to say since we are the same age. Role models are usually players when I was growing up. It is usually guys that are older.
You played him in 23-24 in the NBBL winning 77-58 and he had a dominant 20/22 game. What memories do you have of that game? I remember that his whole team lived off his game in the NBBL. It felt easier then to try to keep him under control even if it was still tough
You had a 8/10 game. I believe you had to match up against him because Frankfurt had no center. How tough was it as a undersized big? I remember defending against him at times. We had more of a team duty to defend him. He was very physical and I had to use my whole body when trying to defend him.
As a undersized big, can you still soak up things from his game? He uses his speed and athleticism very well. I feel like I can pick up things from his game like using my athleticism more on the outside.
He had an incredible 19/19 game in the first U-19 world cup game in Slovenia. Are you following his progress? At the moment not because of my school things, but I will more now in the future
How much will the NCAA help his game? He already played against the highest competition in BBL and BCL. How will NCAA help him? I think that it will be an adjustment at the beginning. But I think that the whole experience in USA will help him see another side of basketball. I´m sure that he will do well.
How good is he really? Some are saying that he is better than big German talent Johan Grunloh. Do you share that opinion? That is hard to say. I never played against Grunloh. They are both big talents that can go far. I think most important is that both are great talents and not who is better than the other.
What makes Hannes Steinbach so good? What really stands out most in his game? Is it his versatility?
Yes his versatility is very special. He is a special player because he can play not only under the basket, but from outside. His combination of athleticism and size makes him special.
Could Hannes Steinbach be the next great German center? Is developing a three something he needs to do? You can always have a better three pointer. He has good chances.
How scary could Germany look like in the next years with the duo of Grunloh and Steinbach?
Germany has a great future with both. But we have so many other great talents. I think that Germany will continue to grow and move forward in the next years especially with the national team.
Namori Omog (188-G-2006) is a 18 year old 188cm guard that recently completed the season for the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt Junior Team playing 17 Pro B games averaging 4.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.7apg, played also at Eintracht Frankfurt / Fraport Skyliners U19 team (NBBL) averaging 12.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.6apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 72.9%. At the moment he is studying offers as he will play elsewhere in 2025-2026. He spoke to germanmhoops.com about big German talent Hannes Steinbach (206-F/C-2006).
Thanks Namori for talking to germanhoops.com. How has your summer been?
I´m very good thanks. My summer is a bit calmer now. I recently finished grade school. I´m really happy how my exams went. I almost was able to play at the U-19 World Cup with Mali. However there were some organizational things that didn´t allow me to play for them. All the Mali coaches liked me though.
You had a solid 24-25 season with injury. How would you rate your Pro B and NBBL seasons?
It was Ok. I wish I could have played more minutes in the Pro B. I´m sure that it would have helped my development. I was happy with my NBBL season especially how I played in the playoffs. It was bitter that we lost in the first round of the playoffs. I felt like we were good enough to reach the top 4.
What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Frankfurt? I won´t remain in Frankfurt. I´m studying offers now as to where I will play. It will be Pro B with a BBL double license.
When you hear the name Hannes Steinbach what is the first thing that comes to mind? He is a big talent. When I hear his name I think of double double monster. He is very versatile. He can´t only play well in the zone, but also plays well from outside and is a good shot blocker.
Who does his game remind you of?
Johannes Voigtmann is a good example, but Hannes is more athletic.
You played against him in the NBBL and Pro B. You don´t play same positions but is a guy like that a role model? I feel like he is a role model for young players. He is a role model for young kids showing he is a modern day big man. The way he plays, you also see in the NBA with guys like Jokic and Embild.
You played him in 23-24 in the NBBL winning 77-58 and he had a dominant 20/22 game. What memories do you have of that game?
He wasn´t that known yet, but you could see right away that he was talented. He was very mobile for his size and very versatile. He didn´t play like a normal center with his back to the basket, but like a guard. He was already giving us many problems then. He played very well on the offensive glass.
This past season you played against him again losing 89-80 in the Pro B and he had a 28/12 game. What improvements did you see in his game? I think he upped his versatility another step. His outside shot is also better. His scoring is also better. What surprised me in the Pro B a bit, was that he was bringing the ball like a guard. That isn´t typical of a big men, but he was very comfortable with it and did it well.
You’re an amazing penetrator. How do you remember doing against him when he was in the paint? Did you need to adjust your game?
He is a very good shot blocker with very long arms. Even if you get by your guard on the drive, you can´t make the easy lay up with him there. He always finds a way to alter the shot or block it. I had to adjust my game by either making lay up´s high off the glass or taking the floater. My game worked very well against him.
He had an incredible 19/19 game in the first U-19 world cup game in Slovenia. Are you following his progress?
Yes I am.
How much will the NCAA help his game? He already played against the highest competition in BBL and BCL. How will NCAA help him? I don´t think that the college level is better than the BBL. The style in the NCAA is very different to the Euro game. It is more 1-1. The NCAA is more athletic and physical than the BBL. He also will battle against more talented bigs. It will be a good preparation for the NBA.
How good is he really? Some are saying that he is better than big German talent Johan Grunloh. Do you share that opinion?
That is hard to say. I think that Hannes had a better season in the BBL and developed better this season. However Johan is still an incredible talent. Both have similar games. Hannes plays more like a guard while Johan is taller. It is really hard to say who better is.
Could Hannes Steinbach be the next great German center? Is developing a three something he needs to do?
He has then potential to be a great German center. One can always improve every facet of your game. Howeverh is three pointer is already very stable. One saw that in the playoffs when he made a clutch three pointer against Braunschweig. He showed how calm he is under pressure.
How scary could Germany look like in the next years with the duo of Grunloh and Steinbach?
That could be very scary. It is very apparent now that the German youth basketball is booming. There are so many talented players at the moment. If they both continue to develop, then Germany will be very strong at the center position. There are also other great talents like Eric Reibe.
Team Germany woke up on the right side of the bed on Sunday and destroyed China 90-66 at the U-19 World Cup. They came back strong as a team after a tough win over Slovenia in game 1 where they were tested well and had to come back to win the ball game. “Being 2-0 feels really good. That was our goal and we achieved that. Now we have one day off and then we battle against Canada”, stressed German guard Janne Muller. Against China, Germany came out of the gate focused and hungry and got a big lead which was tested in the second quarter, but they then went on a massive run and would never look back leading by more than 20 points in the second half of the game. Being able to have an easier game against China was important after having such a tough first game against Slovenia. “We were able to rotate our roster more and every player gained rhythm. After a somewhat nervous first game, we played a lot better offensively and defensively. Plus we kept our turnovers down, played fast and were able to get easy baskets”, stated Janne Muller.
In the first quarter team Germany came together quickly and were a motor on offense generating 29 points and rapidly found a defensive identity allowing only 13 points to China. Germany led 16-7 finding their groove quickly and just sharing the ball around well and played neat inside out basketball. Ex Real Madrid player Declan Duru and ex Vechta guard Jack Kayil demonstrated their fine inside out basketball making three´s and lay up´s. Germany also got future Washington (NCAA) big man Hannes Steinbach involved as he followed up his 19/9 game against Slovenia with a quick start against China making 2 buckets inside. Germany was functioning on all cylinders offensively and just showed how much power they have as Texas Tech (NCAA) guard Christian Anderson supplied 8 points including 2 three´s. Alba Berlin big man Armon Dorries also supplied a three pointer in the charge. “It was a good first quarter from us. We just played our game, were confident and didn´t allow China any easy looks. We know how good we can be and also know that we have to show that more on the court”, stressed Janne Muller.
In the second quarter, China retaliated and cut Germany´s lead down to 3 points, but Germany had an answer and led 49-34 at the break. China began with a 20-5 run to cut Germany´s lead down to 33-30. In the run, China got valid production from Zheng Zhu who supplied 7 points in the Chinese run. China got more confidence as shots began to fall better. Xinquan Cui also got going nailing two three´s. „We lost a little of control. We weren´t as focused anymore and made easy mistakes that we should´t make”, commented Janne Muller. However team Germany calmed down and closed out the second quarter with a lethal 16-4 run. In the run, team Germany was sparked by the trustful guard play as Orange Academy guard Jordan Muller supplied two three´s and Jack Kayil also added 4 points as his penetration always kept China on their toes. Team Germany also got further production from bigs Steinbach and Dorries to round out the scoring. A big strength of Team Germany is their explosive guard play of Kayil, Anderson and Jordan Muller, something that will continue to help them the deeper they get in the tournament. “We are very deep at the guard position. They give us a lot of security which you saw in the second quarter. They controlled the game and ran the systems well”, said Janne Muller.
In the third quarter team Germany scored the ball again very well netting 25 points, controlling the boards and not allowing China to get over the hump. Instrumental in the third quarter was getting big man Eric Reibe (214-C-2006) of UConn (NCAA) to find his game as he showed he can be a walking bucket when needed. He scored 12 of his 15 game points and showed just how versatile he is. He scored the teams first 3 baskets in the third quarter including 2 dunks and later made a lay in, floater and 4 free throws. “Eric is very important for us at the big position because of his length. It was good how he came out of the locker room and stepped on the court being aggressive. That is exactly what we need from”, expressed Janne Muller. Being able to get everyone involved is important for the team moral and togetherness as Keenan Garner also got into the scoring frenzy as he netted the last 2 baskets of the third quarter. Team Germany led 74-52 and had full command of the game. They managed the lead well in the fourth quarter and won it 16-14. All 3 German bigs including Tom Stoiber scored in the fourth quarter as well as Dragons Rhondorf guard Janne Muller who made his first points of the tournament. “We controlled the game well for the 40 minutes. At the end we won the game fairly easily and were happy about that”, added Janne Muller. Team Germany had 6 guys score in double figures and were led by Eric Reibe with 15 points and Christian Anderson added 14 points while China was led by Zheng Zhu and Jiazheng Chen with 12 points a piece. Team Germany sshot 48% from the field and 38% from outside and grabbed 49 rebounds including 18 offensive rebounds and had 13 turnovers while China shot 34% from the field and 24% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 12 turnovers. Germany next duel against Canada who also are 2-0 and had a massive win against Slovenia coming from behind and exploding for 35 points in the third quarter. “Canada is a strong team, but we know that we can compete with any team and our goal is clear to win our group. We have to play our game and be physical”, warned Janne Muller.
Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) may only have played in Germany for 4 seasons before retiring, but in this short time, he was able to follow the further development of the German basketball youth development. Playing for the Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf, he was able to follow it´s NBBL (U-19) and JBBL (U-16) teams as well as having some players as teammates. “Being teammates with Janne, Marko, Josh, Vuk, Kenan, all these great young players, whenever they had a game with the second team it was always fun to watch them play and dominate. That forced me to stay up to date with what was going on in Germany and all the top young prospects. ”,stressed Kelvin Omojola. Ever since Germany won a bronze at the 2022 Eurochampionships and won the World Cup Gold over team USA in 2023, the youth development continues to be in full swing. “It’s amazing! Germany as a whole and especially the youth are improving rapidly! It’s no surprise to me that they’re having continued success and it’s only going to improve year after year! The talent has steadily risen year after year and the youth players are bringing a skillset and mindset that makes them playable on higher levels right away”, warned Kelvin Omojola. The youth development with the Dragons Rhondorf also continues to move forward and Omojola witnessed that special touch that is given to the young players by the Dragons coaches. “What makes it special is the talented young players the Dragons/Bonn brought in! We had some GREAT players in Janne Muller, Marko Rosic, Kenan Reinhardt. They are so talented and their talent is what makes the program great”, said Kelvin Omojola.
The Las Vegas native who played 132 pro games in Germany felt for the ratiopharm Ulm players Noa Essengue and Ben Saraf for having the dilemma to stay in Germany and help them win the title or go to New York to participate in the 2025 draft and feels would of only left if the player was a top 5 pick played against and with guys of team Germany that will battle at the U-19 World Cup in Switzerland. The player he knows about as closely as anyone would their own family member is Janne Muller who won the Gold medal at the U-18 Euro last summer and was his teammate the last 2 seasons and he knows exactly why he is so special as a player. “It’s his work ethic. He always competes and wants to improve! Being a young guy, that’s number 1! You have to want to be in the gym and want to improve. They say you need 10,000 hours in order to be an expert in a certain subject. When you’re a young player, you haven’t hit your 10,000 hours yet, so you need to work towards that every single day”, added Kelmin Omojola. He didn´t have a huge role last summer and this time, the roster is stacked. Despite that could another year of development and maturity allow his minutes to rise? “It definitely could! It just depends on the plans that the coaching staff and management have for him. If they want him to play a lot, he will play a lot. He’s a great player, works hard, and is more than deserving of minutes. It’s up to management and the coaching staff to decide that”, said Kelvin Omojola. Another massive German prospect is giant Hannes Steinbach who made big strides this season in the Wurzburg organization and got good BBL minutes. He will play at Washington (NCAA) this coming season and some have seen him as a bigger talent than Johan Grunloh. “He’s a walking mismatch. His size and skill are unique and unmatched. His upside is amazing and he could reach the NBA. He just needs to keep improving and working hard. The talent is already there”, commented Kelvin Omojola.
The retired guard who was a mix of Steph Curry and Kyle Lowery during his playing days also played against a potential 2026 NBA first round pick with Ivan Kharchenkov. The fearless 3 level scorer has developed incredibly in the FC Bayern Munich program the last years. He made his Pro B debut at age 15 and 5 days and poured in 16 points against Koblenz. In the last 3 seasons, he has played in 27 Euroleague games and keeps racking in titles as a BBL, NBBL and U-18 Euro belong to his achievements. Unfortunately he didn´t get as much minutes in the BBL in 24-25 as he deserved, but now will seek a new challenge in the NCAA with Arizona. He finally now will play with and against guys his own age. Omojola played against him with Speyer and Rhondorf. In his rookie season with Speyer he beat him twice as Kharchenkov was only 15 as he had 8 and 10 points. Was he already fearless then? “Yes, he was always fearless Miles and was above his age skill wise. Even though he was 15, you couldn’t tell at the time by the way his body was and how he carried himself. He was already very skilled but you could tell he was raw. I’m not surprised at all about how good he is now and him heading to University of Arizona”, stated Kelvin Omojola. He is so talented but really should of played more in the BBL this season even after Carsen Edwards was injured. Could the limited minutes be a blessing in disguise? He must be so motivated to rock the NCAA with Arizona. “Yes it was a blessing in disguise. Everything happens for a reason and it will make him a better player/person. I know him playing at UofA will be everything and then some for him. There’s nothing like High Major NCAA D1 basketball, especially when you’re playing for a great program like UofA”, expressed Kelvin Omojola. How scary will the combination Ivan and Bryce James (son of Lebron) be at Arizona? “We’ll see! I’m not sure how much either of them will play this year. They both have to go into summer workouts and show the coaching staff they deserve minutes! Nothing is given at the college level. You have to earn everything”, warned Kelvin Omojola. In a sense Kharchenkov will have to start over again in the NCAA, but his overwhelming experience and having played Euroleague and battled Carsen Edwards and Shabazz Napier on a regular basis will bring him over the top. Unfortunately Ivan Kharchenkov won´t play at the U-19 World Cup as the easyCredit BBL finals went very long. At least he won his second BBL title.
Another really talented and interesting player that Omojola who played 92 Pro B games in Germany battled in the Pro B the last 2 years was Orange Academy Jordan Mueller. He already made waves winning the 2022 JBBL title and continued to make huge strides the last 2 seasons in the pro B. In the last 2 seasons he improved his scoring average in the Pro B from 5 to 12 and his assists from 1,5 to 4,0. Omojola had a negative 1-3 record against Mueller and saw him score 15 points in both games. “Yes, he’s another great young prospect! Super skilled guard who is fearless. Same with him, just continue to stay confident and HUMBLE. People who have those traits always win, on or off the court”, warned Kelvin Omojola. At only 185cm, he isn´t the biggest point guard, but he erases that with his heart and feistiness. He has never allowed his height to bring him down. “Yes 100% Miles. When you’re competing against him, you have to bring your A-game. He plays tough defense, competes, hits shots, and consistently puts pressure on the defense”, added Kelvin Omojola. There are many top teams at the U-19 World Cup like USA, France and Canada, but does Germany have what it takes to grab Gold? “They do 100% Miles. If they play team basketball and trust one another, they should be a favorite to win”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Who could forget the exciting USA-Germany battle at the 2023 World Cup final, but can a repeat happen at the youth sector? “ It would be exciting! USA always has the talent but Germany can compete with them. If they’re playing team basketball, they can beat Team USA”, warned Kelvin Omojola. He has the USA/Germany citizenship. So who will he root for? “I like both honestly Miles haha. I have no dog in the fight”, warned Kelvin Omojola. I have that same kind of feeling as Omojola, but I actually can pick only one even if it´s tough, but Iwill root for Germany this time simply because I have covered so many of the guys over the years.
Jayden Gardner (201-F-2000, college: Virginia, agency: MSG) is a 25 year old 201cm forward that played his second professional season and first in Germany with easyCredit BBL team Rasta Vechta averaging 10,3ppg and 7,2rpg and in the BCL averaged 13,8ppg and 7.3rpg. He palyed his rookie season with House of Talents Kortrijk Spurs (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 15.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 64.4% in the BNXT league. He began his basketball career with Heritage high school and then played at East Carolina University (NCAA) from 2018-2021 averaging 19.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 73.4% and 18.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 73.7% in his last 2 seasons. He then played 2 more seasons with the The University of Virginia (NCAA) averaging 15.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 79.3% and 11.9ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 51.2%, FT: 68.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Jayden for talking to germanmhoops.com. Your played your first season with German team RastaVechta. What have you enjoyed most about the experience? I have really enjoyed the competition level of the league with chances to play euroleague, euro cup, champion league level teams all year.
It was a whirlwind of a season for Rasta Vechta. It began bad, then the team rebounded well for months, but then had a 6 game losing streak before the win in Frankfurt, but still with every chance to reach the playoffs. Why did the team have problems scoring points in this span?
Slumps is a part of basketball and unfortunately we happened to go through one during those six weeks all you can do is keep working and keep shooting.
One thing teams don´t do often in the easyCredit BBL is sweep top team FC Bayern Munich. Does that rate as your season highlight? Yes, beating a euroleague team twice will always take the cake for sure.
Which win did you enjoy most? The one point win or the easier win by 79-65. You impressed in both games scoring 18 and 19 points? I like the one @ Munich because nobody believed in us and it was a game winner.
What was it like being teammates with Isaiah Cozart? You guys battle each other every day in practice. What have you appreciated most about his game?
He is a very fun competitive guy in his rookie year I love getting to work with him and I love his athleticism it makes him a problem on the offensive and defensive end.
What was it like being teammates with German big man Johan Grunloh? He will most likely be drafted by an NBA team once he finishes in the NCAA with Virginia. Will he be NBA ready? Yes I believe he will one day be there because he puts the work in everyday when no one is watching. He is special player.
Let´s talk about your game? If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I think I have more of an old player style like Paul Pierce who likes to operate on the block but can score in a lot of different ways as well.
You’re a player that scores very well and rebounds very well as well. What is your biggest strength on the court? My biggest strength is my motor that’s how I can rebound and score so well I like to call me relentless.
In 5 years in the NCAA, you took only 53 three´s and 191 three´s in your first 2 pro seasons. Did you concentrate on your three during the summer of 2023? Last season you shot 33% and this season 32% How content have you been with the development of your three pointer?
Just locking in on the work at end I know I can shoot the ball so it was all just about getting comfortable and I’ve done that I plan to keep improving every year.
How would you describe the development of your defense? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I think of myself as a very good one on one defender who can guard 1v5. The next step for me is to continue to help with talking to help team defense.
On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game? Playmaking, Ball handling, Shooting
What has been the biggest challenge playing in the easyCredit BBL in comparison to the BNXT league last season? Competition level but that’s what excites me.
You have been very consistent this season. You have been consistent your whole career. What is your secret to really always being an effective player?
Routine Routine Routine I live and preach this and stay with it.
Last season you played with the House of Talents Kortrijk Spurs (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 15.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 64.4%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? The wake up call was all the travels I got last year haha. Now I understand how to move so I haven’t gotten many this year.
You began your NCAA career in 2018 at East Carolina University (NCAA). You had 3 very strong seasons there under Joe Dooley. How vital was he for your early basketball development? How did he help shape your game? He gave me the opportunity of a lifetime to showcase what I could do from day one as a freshman. I will always thank him for that. Coach George Wright and Ken Potosnak were major parts in my development to take a major jump.
You had so many great games at East Carolina, but was your 35/20 game against UCF your greatest game? What memories do you have of that monumental game? Yea UCF vs Taco Fall takes the cake every time it’s one of my favorite rewatches because he is a whole foot taller than me.
You then played 2 seasons at Virginia. You reached the NIT Sweet 16 with exciting wins over MSU and North Texas by 3 and 2 points, but then lost a heart breaker 52-51 against St Bonaventure. How do you remember that run? Yea sucks we didn’t make the tournament but it was my first post season basketball in college so I tried to make the most of it.
How did head coach Tony Bennett groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Coach helped me see the game through different lengths. He challenged me constantly like he told me he would but I always responded. Learning the defense made me a complete player.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ryan Dunn? I would cook RD just like practice haha.
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
Paolo Banchero
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Kihei Clark, Reece Beekman, Kadin Shedrick, Dre Perry, Izaiah Cozart
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? Kobe, Bron, Jordan, Steph
Who is your GOAT? Bron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? I did and I will be watching it on my flight back home soon haha.
Aminu Abibu is a 27 year old 194cm guard that played with TV Langen helping them win the 2025 South West Regionalliga title and helping them move up to the Pro B. He began his career at the University of Ghana an dthen played with Tusk Foundation. He then played with the Aschaffenburg Baskets from 2021-2024. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball
Congrats Aminu on winning the South West Regionalliga title. What does this title mean to you?
This title means everything to me. It’s a reflection of all the hard work, sacrifices, and commitment that the team and I have put in throughout the season. It’s about the journey we’ve taken together as a group, overcoming challenges and pushing each other to be better every day. It’s a proud moment for me, and I’m grateful to everyone who supported us along the way.
If someone had told you at Xmas 2024 that you would win the title, what would you have thought?
I think my thoughts would have still been the same as on Friday after the final whistle because I believe no team has worked harder than us this season.
What did you enjoy most about the celebration on the court in Langen when you won? I enjoyed every moment. From the award ceremony to celebrating with my teammates and interacting with the fans.
Was not having Leon Fertig in game 2 a blessing in disguise. He had to go to Korea for his 3×3 duty. Did the team want to prove it could win without him?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it a blessing, because Leon Fertig is the kind of player you always want on your team. His absence in the second game was another challenge we had to overcome. This season, we’ve faced a number of setbacks with player availability—Leon Püllen and Bastian Winterhalter were out for the entire season, and we were also without Henk Droste and Paul Zaschel during the playoffs. Despite all that, our mentality has always been that the next man has to step up. And I think we’ve shown that time and time again. And Yes, we wanted to prove that we could still win without Leon, and I believe we did just that.
The team saved it´s best for last allowing only 47 points in game 2. What was the secret of the success? How much was head coach Tobias Jahn (204-C-1986, college: CPP) a part of it? I think Coach Tobias Jahn did a great job preparing us for the moment. All we had to do was execute.
Did Tobias Jahn instill that special physicality in the team? He has a way of mentally challenging us and that translates into the physicality you see from us on the court.
You allowed only 12 points per quarter in game 2. Was game 2 against Karlsruhe the best defensive game of the season? For a team like Karlsruhe with multiple guys averaging double digit ppg to score just 47 points in a finals. I would say YES.
The Seeburger College Wizards always went on runs. How tough was it always punching back?
Basketball is a game of runs. We knew they were a talented team, so it was about staying composed, sticking to our game plan, and trusting each other
How tough was it containing Eisa of Karlsruhe? How big was the focus to do a team effort on him?
Eisa is a great player. One of the leading scorers in the league. We had a game plan on how to defend him. Coach trusted me with guarding him and I also took the match up very personal.
Drago Crnjac told me after win that TV Langen had heart and will. How special was TV Langen this season?
TV Langen was incredibly special this season. Not just because of the results, but because of the heart, will, and unity we showed every single time we stepped on the court. Everyone bought into the mission, and we fought for each other. That spirit, that togetherness, that’s what made this team so unique and so memorable
How key was Drago Crnjac´s three pointer at the end of the second quarter? Did that give him an extra spark to have success in the second half? He needed to see one go in and I think that opened up the game for him
What will you always remember from this team?
The brotherhood
How special is having that extra Skyliners connection on the team? There are so many ex players on the roster?
Having many of the guys played together or come up through the Skyliners program, there’s a shared foundation, not just in basketball, but in mentality and work ethic. It made it easier to connect, both on and off the court, and that definitely played a role in our success this season.
Would TV Langen have won the title without Drago Crnjac? How key was adding him in December 2024? I think the second half of the Finals’ Game 2 answers that question. He proved how important he is on our team.
How key was Niklas Pons for the title? Is he the ultimate teammate?
Niklas Pons is our leader. No question about it. We go as he goes. He sets the tone every practice and during games. He holds himself to an incredibly high standard, and that pushes the rest of us to raise our level. What makes him special is that he holds everyone accountable. His leadership has been a huge part of our identity this season.
How key was Risto Vasiljevic for the success? He was another vital leader. Risto may not be the most vocal guy, but when he speaks, everyone listens and that’s exactly how I’d describe his leadership. He leads with presence, with consistency, and by example. His words carry weight because they come from a place of experience and calm confidence.
How special is Leon Fertig? Is sky the limit? I don’t know what his plans are for basketball. By that I mean how long he’d be playing 3×3 or if he’d switch to 5 on 5. But one thing for sure is with his work ethic and confidence the sky is definitely the limit.
I learned the value of composure, clarity, and trust. What really stood out was how much he trusted us and gave us the freedom to play our game but always held us to a high standard. He brought out the best in us by believing in us.
You averaged 7/7/1/1 stats. How content were you with your game this season?
I feel I could’ve given the team more than I did. But this was my first year on the team. Looking forward to next season.
Many guys on TV Langen said that you were the best rebounder. How did you grow as a rebounder? Rebounding is about effort, positioning and being relentless every time the ball goes up. He who wants the ball more gets it.
On what areas of your game do you still need to improve on in order to keep climbing the basketball ladder? Ended the season on a shooting slump. So that would be my main focus this off season.
You had many great games like against Frankfurt and Haiterbach. What was your personal best game with TV Langen? The game against makkabi I’d say
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the Regionalliga this season? In no particular order – Tariq Eisa, Noah Litzbach and Mateus Rodrigues
What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Langen? Yeah. I’m looking forward to the Pro B season with Langen
Who wins a 1-1 you or Michael Agyemang? Light work
Who is the best player you ever played against that reached the NBA or a high league? I’d say Hannes Steinbach who is on his way to becoming a household name in German basketball
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? Luan Pereira, Paulo Camilo jr., Treasure Botchway, Gracefield Attoh & Krist-Obi
Name your NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore. Your 5 best players of all-time? My 5 best players all time – Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James & Dennis Schröder
Who is your GOAT? The GOAT – Michael Jordan. and My GOAT – Stephen Curry
Noah Kamdem (198-C-1998) is a 26 year old 198cm center that has enjoyed a 10 year plus career. He will play his 4th season with the CATL Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB). He has been a real basketball traveler in Germany having played with Troster Breitengussbach, Nurnberg, Herzogenaurach, Team Ehingen, Rostock, PS Karlsruhe, Schwenningen, Coburg, Frankfurt and Elchingen. He spoke to germanhoops.com about Isaiah Hartenstein.
More than 11 years ago you battled Isaiah Hartenstein in the JBBL final. How has time flown by?
Time really has flown by for me. I experienced a lot in this time and played with many clubs. I had ups and downs, but all in all had fun even if I had injuries as well. I just kept going forward.
If someone had told you in 2014 that he would win a NBA title 11 years later what would you have thought? I wouldn´t of thought it could happen. He was already a great player in his youth. He grew something like 8 cm after the final. When your so much taller than the rest, then you are definitely a weapon. Plus he was a lefty and saw the angles differently. He was already very athletic. His father was always by his side and was supporting him to the fullest. Getting to the NBA was possible, I thought, but winning the title is something totally different. Everything needs to be right and you need to have the right team.
What memories do you have of that final game? Breitengussbach lost 68-60. I remember that he had an incredible game. He shot the ball really well. He made some tough step back three´s. That is just really difficult to defend. He defended really well and carried his team. He could already do it all then. He had all the tools.
When you look back at a game like that and watch a JBBL final in 2025, have their been big strides in how good youth players are today?
I honestly don´t follow the JBBL closely today. There are bigs around today that are physical, but we had big bigs in 2014 as well. If I remember correctly, we had 8-9 guys on our team that could dunk. Every guy was athletic as well. But there are many great players today and the DBB and all the clubs are doing good work in the youth development. It is definitely continuing to go in a positive difrection. But I do feel like the physicality now is a step back from when I was in the JBBL.
In the final Isaiah Hartenstein had 22 points and you had 21 points. What memories do you have of the battle down low? We had many matchups. I remember him hitting a couple step back three pointers against me at the end. He definitely decided the game for his team with his rebounding and defense. It was tough playing against him, but I feel like I held my own against him. I used my quickness and showed I could score as well. I had shown in the semi-final that I could defend well against a smaller player like Kostja Mushidi.
How good of a player was Hartenstein already then at age 16? He keeps saying in interviews that many doubted his game, but as well as I can remember he dominated at the youth sector. I´m not sure. He played at the Jordan Brand tournament and was known at a young age internationally. I think that back then he was tall, but not that strong yet, so he had doubters. But he always kept working hard and went his way. He gained more trust as a player. His dad was very important. He always believed in him and worked with him to achieve their goals.
You’re a big physical undersized big man. Do you feel like you could of reached the highest level had you been 10 centimeters bigger?
I still think that I can reach a high level. The last years weren´t easy for my career. I had a son and had injuries. I even played with injuries. My athleticism suffered. But I worked hard at coming back. My foot work is even better now and my shot more consistent. I also get to the rim better. I still believe like I can reach a higher level.
How have you followed Isaiah Hartenstein´s career over the last years? Have you kept tabs on him? I have followed him a bit. He had some problems early in his career to get established, but he kept working at his game and found consistency. He has a good shot and can score inside and defends well. He showed that he is a vital player for OKC´s success.
He is only the second German after Dirk Nowitzki to win a NBA title. How big of an achievement is this for German basketball?
I think this is a huge achievement for German basketball. You obviously can´t compare this to what Nowitzki did in 2011. He carried the whole team and was a superstar. But Isaiah did a lot for the OKC success and gave good support. I think this NBA title is the next push for Germany after the World Cup win.
Where does this title rate him now with German big men? Would you classify him as Germany´s best center now?
I don´t know. I haven´t seen him play internationally. We have good bigs with Thiemann, Voigtmann and Theis. All these guys are closer to the European game then is Isaiah. But despite this, Isaiah is a top center from Germany. He now wants to play for Germany and that will make Germany even tougher to play against.
Has it surprised you that it has taken so long for him to get his breakthrough? It always felt like teams didn´t use him right. The whole NBA is a product. If a coach liked another player more, there isn´t too much you can do about it. If a player gets a chance and performs well, then that helps. But the NBA is so unpredictable It is hard when you get traded and out of nothing have to start over again.
Would OKC have won the title only with a Hartenstein or only a Holmgren? That is hard to say because I didn´t follow the finals so closely.
Are OKC a team that could start a dynasty in the next years?
They have to keep working hard as a team. But anything can happen in the NBA. 1-2 trades can change the dimension of a team so much.
How would you do in a 1-1 against Isaiah today? How many baskets would you make in 10 attempts?
He is many levels above me skill wise. He is so athletic and a lot longer than I. It would be very tough for me, because I´m undersized. I might get 1-2 lucky shots.
Henk Droste (195-PG-2001) is a 24 year old 195cm guard that completed his fourth season with TV Langen averaging 11/6/2/2 and helping them win the 2025 South West Regionalliga title. He began his basketball career with the SW Baskets Wuppertal. He then played a season with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen NBBL team averaging 11.7ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.7apg, 2.7spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 72.1%. He then played a season with the EN Baskets Schwelm. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024-2025 TV Langen championship season.
Congrats Henk on winning the South West Regionalliga title. What does this title mean to you?
It is just special! It means so much, since we don’t have a single signed player. We might have one of the lowest budgets in the entire league. It is like a fairytale of “the boys” that stick together and work hard for multiple years and grow together along the way until successful.
If someone had told you at Xmas 2024 that you would win the title, what would you have thought?
Honestly, I would not be surprised. We just added Drago to the team and beat Karlsruhe at home. I felt like we had a good shot. I didn’t know about Michi Fuss moving to Berlin or Leon Fertig missing the final Playoff Game or me suffering that season ending shoulder injury, so I felt confident.
How tough was it for you missing the playoffs because of injury? Were you the team´s biggest fan on the bench?
It was really difficult. I kept thinking, what would have happened if I didn’t reach for the ball up 15 in the 4th and didn’t suffer the injury. But I was never a fan, I was always part of it. My role just changed. I joined the bus on away games, I rebounded, I tried to coach a little and motivate the guys. We have players on our team that have been doing just that from the beginning of the season and they played a crucial part along the way. Most importantly I never doubted them! And Aminu Abibu (Triple A) stepped up and played out of this world ever since I was out.
What did you enjoy most about the celebration on the court in Langen when you won? You have to understand that not that long ago, in the same gym, there were 30 people in the stands. And everytime we played well and won, more people came. I think it was some sort of contagious thing. I don’t think anyone that ever came to a game the last season, wasn’t going to come back. Seeing that and embracing my teammates, some even are my closest friends off the court as well. My dad drove 3h to the game to support even though I did not play myself. And my girlfriend, who I met in that exact gym 2 years ago when she joined her friend to watch one of our games. She has been one of the 30 that watched and last weekend she was one of the 800 as well.
Was not having Leon Fertig in game 2 a blessing in disguise. He had to go to Korea for his 3×3 duty. Did the team want to prove it could win without him?
Leon is a sensational baller, and I chose that term since that suits him. He may not be the perfect role player for 5v5, but he dominated our game. He can win us the game, as he has proven (81 Points through 3 playoff games). As a team, we adapt to him and we fit around him. Without him, others have to step up and we have to move the ball more. The fact that we can cover the missing of the leagues MVP says a lot about our team.
The team saved it´s best for last allowing only 47 points in game 2. What was the secret of the success? How much was head coach Tobias Jahn a part of it? Tobi believed in us from the very start of the season. He said “we are the best team in the league”. At first, I didn’t understand how much he meant that. In the end, I understood! We were a unit, a BROTHERHOOD, as we called it. That fits well since, brothers fight and annoy each other but in the end they got each others back when it matters. That made us special and stand out. We just wanted it more. A lot more than any other team, that is why we won all of our Games that went in overtime.
Did Tobias Jahn instill that special physicality in the team?
For sure. He yelled at us, when we called fouls in practice. Sometimes he joined us when we were just 9 guys and let me tell you… IT HURT! His physicality, his willingness to win. He wasn’t always fair or just, but his intentions were always to make us better and show us the way to win.
You allowed only 12 points per quarter in game 2. Was game 2 against Karlsruhe the best defensive game of the season? We had a couple games where teams scored 50 or less points. To do it against a team like Karlsruhe, it might have been the best game. They shot badly because we didn’t allow them open looks. On the other hand we struggled with shooting towards the end of the season, because we just could make the open looks. We just didn’t reward ourselves for the defense and ball movement and even offensive rebounds. But our defense made up for it. We didn’t need to shoot 40% from 3 to win a game.
The Seeburger College Wizards always went on runs. How tough was it always punching back?
Especially the finals series was tough for Drago. We tried everything to motivate him and ensure him to shoot the next shot as well. In the halftime of game 2 Mike yelled at him so badly and grabbed him, not because he missed, but because he let his head hang. And look how that turned out. That shows the kind of team we were.
How tough was it containing Eisa of Karlsruhe? How big was the focus to do a team effort on him?
Incredibly good basketball player. Fortunately Aminu defended him really well. We were used to being the smaller team. Without Mike I had to try and win the jump ball some games (which I did twice haha). We had principles: no middle, send him baseline, help from week side and everybody crash the boards. A player like Eisa you cant really match since he is strong around the basket and he can shoot. But we did a great job.
Drago Crnjac told me after win that TV Langen had heart and will. How special was TV Langen this season? Like I said: it was more like the boys doing something together, like brothers. We sat in the gym and ordered food after practice, we went out together, and met outside of the gym. That created a spirit that is quite unique.
How key was Drago Crnjac´s three pointer at the end of the second quarter? Did that give him an extra spark to have success in the second half? It was the moment we all knew was coming. Why he told him to keep going, why Mike did what he did in the locker room. He just needs to see the ball go through the net once and you are in trouble.
What will you always remember from this team? All of the above! I will tell my kids about this. It was just special.
How special is having that extra Skyliners connection on the team? There are so many ex players on the roster? It only mattered in two ways: 1. They had great basketball understanding (Skills and tactics)
2. And they knew what they didn’t want. I mean you don’t leave if you had a great experience most of them had something to prove.
Would TV Langen have won the title without Drago Crnjac? How key was adding him in December 2024? Hard to say. We knew what he would bring, since he scored about 30 against our best defenders last year when he played for Limburg. (Still they lost of course though) He added depth, shooting and just a great personality. He helped us a lot, it took him time to adapt, he sometimes struggled with consistency and I am excited to see out his full potential last year.
How key was Niklas Pons for the title? Is he the ultimate teammate? I remember driving home with Leon Niederdraeing just in awe of him. What he did on a regular basis. His cleverness, his strength, his explosiveness, his shooting ability. He can take over a game with ease. He is always there when you need him, especially when Leon Fertig was missing. I think he is the most complete basketball player in the league.
How key was Risto Vasiljevic for the success? He was another vital leader. Risto is a special character as well. Super nonchalant, calm under pressure. A quite leader but when he says something, it hits. Like a Serbian volcano. He consistently hit the craziest in game shots I have ever seen. When you think he hits crazy shots in the games, you should see what he does in practice. You play 23s of amazing defense when he suddenly decides to hit a contested dribble step back from 2m behind the three point line in your face to win the game and then jog back like nothing happened.
How key was Aminu Abibu? Was he the team´s best rebounder?
He is for sure the most underrated player on the team. The way he stepped up, defended the Big Men that caused us trouble, grabbed rebounds against guys 3-4 inches taller than him… it is incredible. He might be the best rebounder in the league. Grabbing 15 rebounds in the final game says it all.
How special is Leon Fertig? Is sky the limit? The things he had to overcome. And he still is a humble and nice guy. Leon is creating something special not just in Langen but in (3×3) Germany. He is linked to his home, to Langen (jersey number 63). If he is surrounded by the right people they can really have an impact in the 3×3 world. I think Skyliners are on the right track, so for him, there is no limit really.
What did you learn from Tobias Jahn this season?
Believe in principles. Whether you agree or not, if everyone believes and is on the same page, you will win games. Also the importance of a Purpose, the purpose of the brotherhood. We never really scouted teams. It was mostly about us. He said, if we play to the best of our capabilities, we will win.
You averaged 11/6/2/2 stats. How content were you with your season?
You could even say 12 points (11.9) but it doesn’t really matter. I firmly believe I do the things that need to be done. I think of myself as the glue guy. I take pride in defending their best player, hustle, rebound and playing smart team-oriented basketball. If the team needs me to score 20, I will. If the team needs me to share the ball, rebound and defend, I will do that too. I am content with my season. I did everything in my power at all times to help this team win. And we did!
You have shown your consistency in your 4 years at Langen. Has consistency always been with you or is it something you learned in Langen? I can adapt really well. I think I am good at the things that aren’t shown on the stat sheet. I worry about the things I can control. Those I do on a regular basis. About consistency… I scored 28 and I scored 2 points this year and it doesn’t really make a difference. That is quite the opposite of consistency scoring wise but I did whatever the team needed that day.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the Regionalliga this season?
No doubt. Niklas Pons in practice. There not a single player in the league, that pushes me and inspires me the way he does. I would have hated to have him against me. In practice he had some tough battles and he likes to trash talk me and get a little under my skin but it lead us to the Championship.
What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Langen? We will have to sit together and talk about the upcoming season. I would like to stay and continue with my brothers. But time will tell.
Who wins a 1-1 you or Risto Vasiljevic
Haha! Risto is a gifted offensive player. I can only do so much defending him and hope he misses. But I think I am a decent ballplayer myself so it can go either way.
German Hoops 