For 23 year old 190cm guard DJ Woodmore who hails from Virginia Beach and is playing his second professional season with the BIS Baskets Speyer winning hasn´t been something that has happened often since turning professional so looking back at his monumental ODAC tournament win in 2014 with Virginia Wesleyan (NCAA3) is something he will reflect on from time to time so not to totally be depressed in Germany. This season hasn´t been any different than his rookie season last year as his team is 1-7 having only beat Weissenhorn while giving up a massive 81 points per game while mustering only 71 points which aren´t very prosperous stats for success. Last season Woodmore lost both games against the Fraport Sklyiners and he has one thing in common with players like Tim Oldenburg and Niklas Kiel that they all experienced bitter loses the last times that they were on the floor in the BCM in Frankfurt. The last time that Woodmore was in Frankfurt was in January 2015 when he witnessed a very bitter 75-73 loss as he produced 15 points, but it wasn´t enough to pull out an amazing win and 2014 NBBL rookie of the year Niklas Kiel who averaged 15/13 that season and future police man Tim Oldenburg last were on the BCM floor two weeks ago where they were on the short end of a very bitter 94-87 loss to Saarlouis where they gave up a 12-2 run in the last two minutes as once again they were unable to contain Mr Regionaliga Ricky Easterling who clobbered Frankfurt with 31 points and upped his total to 91 points in the last three Pro B games. Woodmore met up against Kiel and Oldenburg again and all three were very motivated to finally exit the BCM floor as a winner again and not a loser feeling the need to wrap a paper bag over their head after another bitter crunch time loss, but the American Woodmore had to exit the floor as the loser for a third time as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors routed the BIS Baskets Speyer 89-68. Woodmore was calm after the loss, but one could sense that he was fuming inside as Frankfurt still have his number, but that could change. “We got off to a poor start and were down by 20 after one quarter. Thompson hit his first four three pointers and that was the difference as Frankfurt rolled with it. After that we lost focus on defense. It is hard to come back when your down so much, but I thought that we outplayed them in the last three quarters. It was hard losing here again. Last season we lost on the last shot here and were close at home as well. I hope we can get them back at home. The next time we meet we will be more in tune on offense and defense”, warned DJ Woodmore. After two poor games, the Fraport Skyliners showed another strong effort and a big difference was that many of the Beko BBL license players were in the rotation again, but the result could still have been better. “We didn´t play bad for 40 minutes, but not as good as we could of. One can see how strong we are when we are complete. However Speyer is in last place and even though they have potential having beat Weissenhorn, they are a team that we could of beat by more”, warned Fraport Skyliners forward Tim Oldenburg. “We had a very strong first half, but didn´t sell ourselves well in the second half. When we are playing well, we need to keep playing our game and not let up”, added Fraport Skyliner Niklas Kiel.

In the first quarter the Fraport Skyliners found their offensive rhythm quickly and nailed shot after shot until the clock sounded after 10 minutes and Frankfurt had put 35 points on the board. Frankfurt quickly got off to a 10-3 lead as their ball movement was magnificent and one had to wonder if head coach Eric Detlev had shown his team the Europe Cup video of Frankfurt-Leiden or Max Merz had told his teammates the secret to top ball movement. Frankfurt was led by two trey´s from Merz and American Travis Thompson and a lay in and Johannes Richter scored inside after being fed beautifully from Kiel. The BIS Baskets Speyer then got their offense going cutting the Frankfurt lead to 14-10 as 24 year Martin Rittinger who played 2 Pro A games for Heidelberg tested his 41,9% from outside connecting as his quick shot reminds one of Anton Gavel, 18 year old Matthias Meier scored inside and DJ Woodmore hit a pull up jumper. However after that the Fraport Skyliners Juniors got instant offense that got hotter and hotter as the club went on a 21-5 run to lead 35-15 after one quarter. Frankfurt got back to back three pointers from Thompson, Kiel and Richter as their consistency from outside was amazing. Down the stretch in the last few minutes, Thompson hit another trey as power forward Tim Oldenburg got a steal and two handed dunk and made a tip in. “We made it too easy for Frankfurt as we weren´t defending the way we should have. We gave them way too many open shots. It was like a training game for Frankfurt”, stressed ex Central Washington(NCAA2) German Jay Thomas. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 76% from the field and 75% from outside while the BIS Baskets Speyer were shooting 38% from the field and 29% from outside. Frankfurt had the 9-4 rebound edge and had three turnovers while the BIS Baskets Speyer had six turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners kept up their dominating play and led by as much as 24 points and led 53-33 at the break. It really didn´t matter who was inserted into the game, that player contributed as ex Paderborner Marius Nolte demonstrated who played 139 Beko BBL games with the Fraport Skyliners and was able to score twice including an old school fingertip role. Kiel and Thompson also scored while the BIS Baskets Speyer were led by ex Skyliner Benedict Nicolay with a three pointer and Nigerian rookie Onochie Ochie that played at South Eastern Louisiana(NCAA) hit a few shots, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors still led comfortably 45-23. Frankfurt was doing a good job staying focused despite having a huge lead and keeping up their defensive intensity. Ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb then made one of the prettiest plays of the night making a swift dribble behind his back which left Khobi Williamson wrong footed and finishing with a lay in while Nolte made a tip in. German Alexannder Kuhn tested his 31% three point percentage nailing a trey, but Frankfurt still led 51-26. Frankfurt then lost some focus as the BIS Baskets Speyer switched some things around in their game on defense keeping Frankfurt guessing and making more mistakes while the guests closed out the second quarter with a 7-2 run to trail Frankfurt only 53-33. In the run, the BIS Baskets Speyer were aided by jumpers by Meier and Woodmore and free throws by Williamson. “We played better at the end as we were hungrier than Frankfurt was. We did a better job containing Thompson not leaving him open”, added ex Walter Tigers Tuebingen German Jay Thomas who played 142 Beko BBL games. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 54% from the field and 50% from the three point line while the BIS Baskets Speyer were shooting 38% from the field and 33% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 24-13 rebound advantage and six turnovers while Speyer had nine turnovers.

In the third quarter, the BIS Baskets Speyer played a lot better cutting the Frankfurt lead down too as much as 13 points, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to break away again near the end of the third quarter leading 69-52. The BIS Baskets Speyer started off the third quarter with a 7-0 run surprising Frankfurt cutting the lead down to 53-40. In the run, the BIS Baskets Speyer were sparked by two buckets by Kuhn and a trey from Woodmore. The Speyer defense also was thrust up a few notches as they got some big plays forcing Frankfurt to bad shots and making a few blocks. However Frankfurt didn´t get intimidated by the run and went on their own 6-2 run to extend their lead to 59-42. Frankfurt wasn´t hitting as well from outside so they went to their even bigger strength inside getting baskets from Kiel and two from Richter. The only consistent offense that Speyer had was Woodmore who hit some shots cutting the Frankfurt lead down to 63-48 while Frankfurt continued to bang the ball inside as Nolte and Richter were work horses while Merz also made a step back shot. “We started off well as we were more focused and were playing with more intensity as we were scoring off our defense. However we were unable to match their physicality as they were crashing the boards and getting easy baskets inside. I am proud that we never gave up until the end”, added Virginia native DJ Woodmore. “We got off to a sloppy start, but kept together”, added Niklas Kiel. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 46% from the field and 27% from the parking lot while the BIS Baskets Speyer were shooting 41% from the field and 29% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 38-23 rebound edge and eight turnovers while Speyer had 12 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to keep up their big lead as they led by as much as 23 points as the last reserves of the BIS Baskets Speyer were slowly leaving them. Frankfurt got some strong production from Oldenburg who hit a jumper and lay in after cutting in the lane and being served perfectly from Zeeb. Kiel did the same thing as Oldenburg this time being fed by Thompson while Zeeb connected on a floater. The BIS Baskets Speyer got support with a sweet Nicolay spin move and lay in and Woodmore steal and coast to coast sprint with Thompson breathing down his neck as Frankfurt still led 78-58. In the last few minutes German Konstantin Schubert made a running hook shot and Oldenburg scored for the second time in the lane cutting in while getting the pass from Zeeb. Lenny Okeke also gave his two cents to the scoring with a pretty lay in. The BIS Baskets Speyer closed out the game with a 5-2 run as 26 year old German Benjamin Kaufhold tested his 15,3% three point shooting connecting while Ochie made a steal and lay in and Nolte made the last bucket of the game. “This is the type of game where you have time to try to get better. We did that in the fourth quarter and played better”, added Niklas Kiel. “I tried to stay in attack mode at all times and don´t think that all the scoring is on my shoulders. I think with time my teammates will find their identity. We need to practice hard every week and build confidence and play as a team in games”, warned DJ Woodmore. After a long period, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors played gave up the second least points after Leipzig with 68 points and know this is a work in progress. “Our defense has had ups and downs. We practiced it much last week and have improved in last games and know it isn´t as good as last season, but its on a good way”, warned Tim Oldenburg. The Fraport Skyliners had five guys in double figures and led by Johannes Richter with 17 points. Travis Thompson contributed 16 points. Marius Nolte added 14 points in 14 minutes, Niklas Kiel had 13 points and Tim Oldenburg 12 points. The BIS Baskets Speyer were led by DJ Woodmore with 20 points. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 23% from outside while the BIS Baskets Speyer shot 39% from the field and 30% from outside. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors easily won the rebound duel 49-29 and had 13 turnovers while Speyer had 15 turnovers.

Worthy De Jong is a 27 year old Dutch 194cm shooting guard that is playing his sixth season for Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (Eredivisie) and started his basketball career with the Rotterdam Challengers (Eredivisie). He had his best season last season playing 34 games averaging 15.0ppg, 5.9rpg, Assists-4(4.5apg), Steals-2(2.6spg), FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 74.1%. He also had a solid performance at the 2015 European Championships playing 5 games: 9.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT-2(66.7%), FT: 81.3%. He spoke to German Hoops recently about basketball.

 

 

Worthy thanks for talking to German Hoops. After the loss in Frankfurt in Fiba Europe Cup action Leiden has lost three of four games. What have been the main reasons for the team being in this rut?

I would say that the there is a different level of experience in which we lack. Our best game was the first one after that we kind of lost it. Nothing to fear we may not make the next round but we definitely gained some knowledge.

In those 4 games Leiden has averaged 66 points made in the Dutch league and only 51 points made in the Fiba Europe Cup. Is the Leiden offense still a huge project in the making?

Yes I think we are trying to find our way still and what might work for us in our league gives us some struggle in the Europe cup so we need to tweak some things to get it right.

How vital is it having Americans that play a big role? It seems like Deron Scott and Eric Stutz are still finding themselves. Is this a rookie thing in that they still have to find themselves in many areas on the court?

It is tough but not impossible in my years with Leiden I’ve had the privilege to play among some great players in that taught me the game well, but its always been a process to get it right at the right time and in most of my cases I was the student but at this time in my career the roles kind of changed where I need to share my experience to turn the rookies in players that can contribute to our game and they are adjusting well and it just takes a little time.

In Fiba Europe cup Leiden is 0-4. The team had two lack luster showings against KRKA Novo Mesto and FC Porto averaging only 51 points. Has the club been able to find answers when watching video?

We haven’t necessarily watched specific game on it, but we’ve been working on improving our offense and it will get better in time.

The next game is against the 3-0 Fraport Skyliners. What memories do you still have of the 63-58 loss in Frankfurt a game that was close?

That was a close game that could’ve gone both ways. It wasn’t an easy one but no games are.

You had 22 points in the first game against Frankfurt. Do you feel pressure to have to equal that kind of performance again or eclipse it in the next game?

Not necessarily do I feel any pressure but their scouting will be better so we will see.

What kind of experience was it for you playing against freak athlete Quantez Robertson? How much do you get up for these kind of battles against these type of players?

I play people by their number and not by their names and as big of a player you are you still need to perform every night and you knowing him well and having been around those players more than me the question should be asked to him .. Because I bet he never heard of me before we played.

Where would you rank the athleticism and defense of Robertson against other players that you have played against in your career?

He is a very versatile player but I haven’t really noticed his athleticism not saying it isn’t there but definitely a great player to play against he is amongst the great players I played against.

After two weak offensive performances in the Europe Cup, the Fraport Skyliners finally broke out scoring 89 points against FC Porto. What will be key in getting the first win in the competition against the German side?

Well the key would be just playing with the same intensity as the last one and try to keep it close till the 4th and see if we can get over that bridge.

You are playing your sixth season with Leiden. What makes this club so special in your eyes for you not to move?

Its been a great place to play the environment of the stadium and the fans have always been great but playing abroad had always been a wish but just hasn’t seem to get on my path, but hoping it will soon but for now I’m busy trying to win with Leiden.

It is usually Americans that carry a team like last season Brandyn Curry and Chris Denson with Den Bosch. Currently you are leading Leiden in scoring in both competitions. Is this a role you enjoy where you have so much responsibility?

I think that its just a role that came to me. I’ve always been a high energy guy and over the seasons playing for Leiden I have been taught by two coaches that molded me well and because of that I’ve found a way to put the energy in the right spot and be a scoring threat to the opponent. Now there are some aspects of my game I need to improve on but I think I still have enough time to do that.

You have been a very consistent performer for Leiden the last 4 years. Does your consistency result from a daily routine of always working extra hard in practice and individual training to keep improving your game?

Well as I said I’ve been energetic all of my career and consistency on the other hand hasn’t been easy. I’ve tried and its gotten better just not where I want it to be now. The past two years I’ve been working even harder to be ready for the next step when it comes I guess you can say that daily routine and working hard makes a difference. I must add that my injury to my knee has been a gift and a curse and it changed my game. I now am more relaxed and energy efficient in the game and I don’t go 200 MPH anymore. I do it when its needed and because of that I got the time to work on my shot and read the game better than before.

I asked you after the Frankfurt loss where you had 22 points why you aren’t playing in a higher league. Doesn´t Germany, Spain or Italy interest you where skill and money is in more abundance than in Holland?

It all interests me but the offers are just not there in time I hope it will but for now nothing has come through leaving for and as a Dutch player playing in Holland leaving can be tough especially if your not 7 foot.

You have the complete package. You are a ´very quick and athletic Player. Unbelievable jumping Ability and also a very good offensive Rebounder. Very creative Player and almost unstoppable in the 1 – 1. Good defender. Good scorer in attacking the Basket and also a good shooter incl. 3pt. Very emotional Player who brings a Lot of Energy to the Team. But what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

I think you got it all. I’ve added teaching to my game. Its something I’m not great at but definitely working on being a better leader on the floor and I should know how to do it because I’ve learned from some great players.

You have won two Dutch league titles in 2011 and 2013. Which one was sweeter?

If I must choose I would say the first was sweeter even though my contribution was way bigger the second time around, but both were special the first time game 7 triple overtime and the second a clean sweep throughout the whole playoffs.

What memories do you have of teammate Monta Mcghee from that first title team? How important was his play for winning that first title in 2011?

Definitely one of my favorite players that I’ve played with high energy like me and crazy circus shots no left hand though (don’t tell him I told you) but most definitely a very important player during that title his offensive rebound won us the game and he thought me a lot.

You played at the Euro 2015. What kind of overall experience was that for you and do you see yourself developing further in your Dutch national career?

This is the biggest stage I’ve been on and it was amazing. I think the Dutch national team learned a lot from this and will make us stronger and better and I think we proved that we are supposed to be on that stage and we will be again.

Holland played tough against the mighty Greece, but lost 68-65. You scored 4 points in 13 minutes. Was there a player that you watched extra close from the Greek team where you hoped you could learn something from?

Yea I wasn’t too happy about that loss but couldn’t do anything about it. I’ve watched several players mostly the guards off course all of them had a different type of game but all of them shared the ball well and that is what made it so easy to play against us.

You had your best game with 19 points in a win against Slovenia. Do you believe that a game like this helped get your name a bit more noticed in Europe?

Well I sure hope so. I felt really confident that game and I hope it was noticed.

What goals do you still have as a professional basketball player?

Gaining experience playing for a different European team and having a solid career there.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Arvin Slagter?

I would say me, but I guess Arvin would say himself too although Arvin isn’t the one on one player type, but I could be wrong tongue emoticon.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Do you feel like he will ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

He has been mentioned although I might say that it will never be the same Lebron James great player, but Michael Jordan changed the game and Lebron isn’t really changing the game and he is just good at pretty much every aspect of the game. Not Steph Curry is changing the game, but him and Klay Thompson are bringing basketball to another level with a shooting team and winning a chip not done before.

Has Armin Van Buuren one of Leiden´s residents ever made it to a home game or is he too busy jetting around the world or supporting the football team?

I would not know his music isn’t my cup of tea and I think he would be faster to support football than basketball.

You are into street art and take many photos when you are traveling. Do you have any favorites?

Yea I would say my favorite is a portrait of an old lady I shot in Thailand last year.

What was the last movie that you saw?

James Bond and it sucked!!

 

Thanks Worthy for the chat.

DJ Woodmore is a 23 year old 190cm rookie from Virginia Beach, Virginia that is playing his second season for the BIS Baskets Speyer. As a rookie last season he played 28 games averaging 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1%He played at Virginia Wesleyan (NCAA3) from 2010-2014 and a s a senior played 31 games: 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He reached the NCAA3 Sweet 16 three times and elite 8 once. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball before the game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors

 

DJ thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough 82-66 loss against Nordlingen. After a big win and first of the season against Weissenhorn now another loss. How is the mood of the team? Is the team staying as upbeat as best possible?

Yes, the mood is still very positive with the team. We know we haven’t played our best basketball yet so that is something to look forward to in the upcoming games.

Nordlingen scored 34 points in the first quarter. Was the game already somewhat decided after 10 minutes despite Speyer winning the second and third quarters?

I don’t think so, yes the slow start pretty much set the tone for the rest of the game, but we’ve done a good job of fighting our way back into the games all season. We had our chances late but just could not get over the hump.

The tank Kwame Duku led all scorers with 21 points on 10/13 shooting. Was there no way to contain him better?

He played really well. I think his teammates did a good job at putting him in great scoring position all night.

You play against very talented guards each weekend. How much of a challenge was it battling against American Brandon Lockhart?

Lockhart is extremely talented, poised, quick, and crafty. He got the better of our match up in the first half last week. Hopefully when we play them again, I can do a better job of containing him.

The BIS Baskets Speyer average 71 points per game while giving up 81 points. It will continue to be tough to win games if you can´t keep opponents down in scoring. What have been the main reasons for the team having problems keeping teams scoring down?

I’m not exactly sure what the main reason is, but I do know we have to stay focused on defense for the entire 24 seconds. If we do that, I’m sure those numbers will improve.

You and Khobi Williamson are scoring in double figures, but it seems like that third scorer is missing on the team. How vital is it for that scorer to be established quickly?

It is very important, we have a lot of extremely talented players on our team, we just need to get them all playing with a high level of confidence each night.

How well has German Alexander Kuhn developed from last season? Do you see him taking the next step and taking on even a bigger scoring role this season?

Kuhn has been a really important piece for us this season and last. He’s a very crafty forward who stretched his range out to be a very consistent outside shooter. He’s makes very timely plays offensively and defensively, and when he is playing well, I think we are a better team in every way.

You have always been a strong rebounding guard, but your averaging your best ever at 7,8rpg. Is it strange being the top rebounder and getting more boards than Khobi Williamson?

No not that strange at all, I think I just have good timing. Khobi and Onochie are far better rebounders than I am, but I always feel confident in my ability especially when crashing the boards against other guards.

You are averaging 15,0ppg and are at around what you averaged last season. Do you see yourself becoming even more of a scorer like maybe Ricky Easterling?

Easterling is such a dynamic scorer, probably the best in the league. We have similar styles but my game is more depended on the long ball. I have to become more efficient if I want to compete with Easterling in scoring but more importantly help this team succeed.

Despite losing to Saarlouis already this season how good did it feel scoring 34 points against Ricky Easterling who got Speyer in the last game last season with 38 points?

It was nice to actually shoot the ball well after such a slow start to the season, but it’s always a competitive game when playing against him and Saarlouis. Next time we play at home, hopefully we can get the win.

What are your main goals this season and what do you want to improve in your game from last season?

This season’s goals are still to help this team reach the playoffs for the first time. Although we’ve had a rough start, its never to late to go on a winning streak. I hope to improve on everything about my game from last season, but primarily I want to get better on impacting the game on both ends of the court. To be a complete player, not just a scoring threat.

You have stated that you are a pass first guard even though it wouldn´t be noticed with your stats. Is upping your assists average a goal in your game?

Yes definitely, I always want to get my teammates involved. I’ve always played with a mindset to get the best shot possible, and will continue to play that way.

The next game is against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors. What do you remember from the bitter 75-73 loss from last season in Frankfurt?

I remember how demoralizing that loss felt when walking to the locker room after. We didn’t keep focus for the entire 40 minutes after being up but double digits. We are going to try to use that as motivation to get back on the right path this year.

They are riding a two game losing streak. What will be key to getting the win?

Just staying tuned into the game for 40 minutes and playing together as a team. They are a talented team with a lot of players that can just flat out play. But we are looking forward to the challenge.

How proud are you of your teammate Khobi Williamson who came back strong after missing most of last season?

Extremely proud of the drive and the work he put in this offseason to be back to this point. I know it wasn’t easy but he kept a positive mindset the entire time. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in the league and he’s just getting his feet back under him. Scary to think about how much room for improvement there still is for him.

You played against Williamson 10 times in college. Which game will you never forget?

Every game was so epic between us because they were our biggest and most hated college rivals. At least 4 of them ended with buzzer beaters and game winners. But I will never forget when we beat them in 2013 on their Senior Night with a game winning shot. There was a lot of trash talking after the buzzer went off, both benches cleared, and the entire student section raced to the floor in hopes of a full fledged brawl. We needed a police escort to get back to the bus and I think this moment just added a little more fire to the classic VA Wesleyan vs Hampden Sydney basketball rivalry.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

As a die hard Lebron fan, I already put him in the same breathe as Michael Jordan. I know he doesn’t have the championship rings to compare but he’s, without question, one of the best players to ever play the game of basketball.

Thanksgiving is around the corner. How was your first Thanksgiving in Germany last season and what is your favorite childhood memory of Thanksgiving?

Not much of a Thanksgiving for me last season because Germany doesn’t celebrate it, but every Thanksgiving memory is a great one. Being around family is so important to me, especially in this crazy world we live in today. With all the chaos going on these days, not being with them this year will definitely be tough.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Money Talks with Chris Tucker and Charlie Sheen.

 

Thanks DJ for the chat.

 

Onochie Ochie is a 23 year old 198cm forward from Nigeria that is a rookie and playing in Germany for BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB). He played at SE Louisiana (NCAA) from 2011-2015 playing a total of 108 NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games: 8.5ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 63.3%. He spoke to German Hoops before the game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

 

Onochie for talking to German Hoops. You have a very unique name. Have you had any memorable experiences with your name over the years or do people always pronounce it right?

I have really been blessed to have such a unique name. My name in itself has opened the door to great opportunities. I have had an endless amount of memorable experiences with my name. People do a pretty good job of pronouncing my name for the most part.

A tough 82-66 loss against Nordlingen. After a big win and first of the season against Weissenhorn now another loss. How is the mood of the team? Is the team staying as upbeat as best possible?

The morale of the team is great. We are just working hard and getting better every day.

Nordlingen scored 34 points in the first quarter. Was the game already somewhat decided after 10 minutes despite Speyer winning the second and third quarters?

No matter the score, we always believe we can win. The game isn’t decided until time runs out.

The tank Kwame Duku led all scorers with 21 points on 10/13 shooting. Was there no way to contain him better?

Duku is a handful down on the low block. He capitalized on the opportunities he was given, so you have to give him credit.

You play against talented players each weekend. How much of a challenge was it battling against American Jordan Talbert?

Talbert may be the best rebounder in the league. Talbert has a great all around game, he can do it all. I have nothing but respect for him. He was tough matchup.

How well has German Alexander Kuhn developed? Do you see him taking the next step and taking on even a bigger scoring role this season?

Kuhn plays extremely hard, he is a great rebounder for his size. I believe the best part of his game is his basketball IQ, he seems to always make the right decisions on the court. Kuhn has already taken a bigger scoring role, especially over the last 2 games.

You are playing your rookie season in Germany and currently are averaging 7,6ppg and 5,0rpg in 17,3 minutes per game. How happy have you been with your play thus far?

I am my biggest critic. I am rarely satisfied with my play, I always feel I can do better.

You have unending athleticism, but what is a hidden talent in your game that you feel doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?

I think I am a pesky defender. I take pride in playing good defense.

Do you feel like you have the game to become a consistent scorer in double figures?

Yes, I do

You played at SE Louisiana (NCAA from 2001-2015. Your first coach from 2010-2014 was Jim Yarbrough. How did he groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I am forever grateful of Coach Yarbrough, he gave the opportunity to play college basketball. Coach Yarbrough was a big advocate of proper basketball fundamentals. I credit Coach Y and his staff for drastically improving my fundamental basketball skills, which translates well to the pro game.

You seemed to always have your best games against Mcneese State. Are these games that you will forever remember?

Mcneese State and SELU are major rivals. It’s always exciting to play against your rival, so I guess it can bring out the best in you. However, I have nothing but mad respect for Coach Simmons and the Mcneese State program.

What was your fondest memory last season on the court with point guard Cedric Jenkins who came into his own as a senior?

Cedric Jenkins is a great basketball player, but his best trait is his leadership. I enjoyed with him and the rest of my teammates at SELU. My fondest memory playing with Cedric was the New Orleans game when he scored 39 points. It was special to watch nad we passed him the ball and got out of the way.

Who was the toughest player that you played against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

I have had the opportunity to play against several players currently in the NBA, and they have all been tough opponents. However I had the most fun playing against Jordan Mickey.

What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?

Lebron James is considered by most to be the best basketball player in the world, and I would have to agree with that. Lebron James will go down as one of the best players to ever play the game, that being said I do not think it’s inapt to mention Lebron James and Michael Jordan in the same breath. However I do believe MJ is the greatest ever.

Thanksgiving is around the corner. How was your first Thanksgiving in Germany last season and what is your favorite childhood memory of Thanksgiving?

I spent Thanksgiving last year in Louisiana with the Whann family. I have had the pleasure of celebrating Thanksgiving with them for the past five years. I honestly cannot pinpoint only one childhood Thanksgiving memory. Every time my family comes together for the holidays it is special.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I watched was “Hancock”

 

Thanks Onochie for the chat.

 

 

 

The defense has been the main staple that has held the Fraport Skyliners ship together all season and even when their offense was sputtering and was as desolate as the barren tundra in Russia, they could still pull out wins simply because their defense was a rock and held teams to even less points then what they could only muster. In the first game against Dutch team ZZ Leiden in Europe Cup play the 2004 Beko BBL champion Fraport Skyliners were able to grind out an ugly 64-58 victory where their three offensive threats Theodore, Doornekamp and Robertson were held to 8/26 from the field and were led by the 17 points of Mike Morrison and 14 points from Konstantin Klein. Frankfurt had no remedy how to stop the athletic Worthy De Jong that led all scorers with 22 points and found ways to score in a Ricky Easterling manner and made big plays. However Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert was hoping for the continued rejuvenated offense by Frankfurt as in the last two games they had averaged 88 points in the big wins against FC Porto and the Brose Baskets Bamberg as well as keeping the consistent defense intact. ZZ Leiden is a rare team that has two Americans, but doesn´t always start them and rely on the input of their Dutch players and hero like play of Worthy De Jong, but the Dutch team were unable to attain the level they had in Frankfurt a few weeks ago where they were close to a win, but at home were crushed as they caught a very bad shooting day and had absolutely no idea how to find a rhythm on offense and often were unable to shoot in the ocean as they missed shot after shot, but Frankfurt also made their selection miserable as their aggressive defense and rotations were superb. It was the third game in a row where the offense was playing in a Tom Brady manner as they were hitting on a consistent basis and their unselfishness was a grade A. “The key to tonight’s game was DEFENSE! It very important for us to set the tone on defense and we were able to that from the start. We knew that they were home and coming in to tonight’s game they haven’t loss in their home gym. So we expected them to shoot the ball confidently! In the first quarter they hit some tough shots but our defense was still really good. We were able to score off their turnovers. We were also able to get out in off their miss shots. Most importantly we ran our offense with a purpose”, stressed Fraport Skyliner Jordan Theodore.

The first quarter was the closest in the whole game as there were five lead changes, but three consecutive three pointers by the Fraport Skyliners near the end of the first quarter quickly turned the tide of the momentum and Frankfurt would never trail again as they rattled off their offense on a consistent basis while ZZ Leiden struggled on offense except for a spurt in the fourth quarter. 2012 Dutch Eredivisie All-Star Game slam dunk winner and 2015 MVP Joern Van der List set the stage early hitting a three as the outside shooting would be about all that ZZ Leiden would have to offer on this night. The Fraport Skyliners were cheered on by around 20 fans that had made the 5 hour trip to Leiden quickly got their offense flowing as ex Auburn guard Quantez Robertson made a lay in, Danilo Barthel a free throw and Johannes Voigtmann connected on a pretty fade away jumper as Frankfurt led 5-3. Van Der List kept up his slick outside shooting nailing another trey to fetch the lead back, but that was quickly erased by Canadian national player Aaron Doornekamp with a jumper and 7-6 advantage for Frankfurt. Voigtmann then scored back to back buckets with a two handed dunk as Barthel fed him and a jumper. ZZ Leiden dead locked the game at 11-11 as Van Der List hit his third three pointer of the quarter. Jordan Theodore then got on the score board with a lay in for the 13-11 lead, but ex Cal Poly Pomona (NCAA2) guard Deron Scott dropped a trey for the 14-13 ZZ Leiden lead. However then like in a mean rush, the Fraport Skyliners went on a 10-0 run nailing three three pointers with two from German national player Konstantin Klein and one from Robertson. Scott closed out the first quarter with a lay in as Frankfurt led 23-16. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 64% from the field and 50% from outside while ZZ Leiden were shooting 43% from the field and 60% from outside. Frankfurt had the 8-5 rebound lead, but had three turnovers while ZZ Leiden had one turnover.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners would run away with the game outscoring their Dutch counterpart 18-7 and leading 41-23 at the break. ZZ Leiden actually started out well in the second staying with Frankfurt as 31 year old two time Dutch champion and allstar shooting guard Rogier Jansen nailed a three pointer and 25 year old 2010cm center and three time Dutch cup winner Thomas Koenis grabbed his own rebound making the put back while Frankfurt got production from Klein with a lay and pick and pop shot from Doornekamp as Frankfurt still led 28-21, but this was the closest that ZZ Leiden would ever be again in the game as the Fraport Skyliners now really took control of the game as they went into halftime with a back breaking 13-2 run. Frankfurt was playing great team basketball and finding so many ways to score while ZZ Leiden had more and more difficulty getting good shots and just couldn´t hit the ocean. Their star Worthy De Jong also wasn´t having a good night as one could sense his frustration with every new turnover and rushed shot as the forehead wrinkles increased. The best play that de Jong made in the second quarter was blocking a Max Merz shot on transition as he came from the blind side blocked him and the ball deflected off the German for a ZZ Leiden possession. The only points ZZ Leiden got was a rare inside bucket from Van Der List. On offense Frankfurt was clicking and getting superb consistent production. The run was started with Theodore and Barthel free throws. Theodore made a reverse lay in and Barthel and a dunk as Voigtmann found him cutting to the hole as ZZ Leiden had no idea how to clog the paint. Little then made the last five Frankfurt points with a put back after reaching for an offensive rebound and then nailing a trey as Frankfurt had the comfortable 41-23 lead after 20 minutes. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 63% from the field and 44% from the three point line while ZZ Leiden was shooting 31% from the field and 35% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 19-10 rebound edge. ZZ Leiden had eight turnovers and Frankfurt seven.

In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued being the more consistent team executing on offense and often making it look like a stroll in the park while their defense continued to stifle ZZ Leiden. ZZ Leiden got on the board first as Jansen dropped a trey, but then was rudely beat on the next Frankfurt possession by Theodore who used that quick first step to his advantage and getting the easy lay in. Then the two big men traded baskets as Voigtmann and Van Der List scored as he was the only real bright spot for the Dutch team on this night. With ZZ Leiden down 45-28, the Fraport Skyliners had no mercy and added on to their big lead closing out the third quarter on a 15-4 run to lead 60-32 after three quarters. In the run, the Fraport Skyliners just played delightful basketball that would of even got a thumbs up even from the most staunch ZZ Leiden supporters as there was nothing that one could complain about. Moving the ball, finding the open guy and throwing in an extra pass was the recipe for success. 2010 Eurochallenge winner John Little made a pretty running floater from the wing, Doornekamp a jumper after getting the perfect kick out dish from Theodore, Barthel a lay in after getting a feed from Theodore off the penetration, Voigtmann a 15 footer from the wing after Barhel made an extra pass and Little made a deep three from the corner as Barthel again made the extra pass. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 56% from the field   and 46% from the parking lot while ZZ Leiden was shooting 33% from the field and from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 26-17 rebound edge and eight turnovers while ZZ Leiden had 15 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, ZZ Leiden outscored the Fraport Skyliners 19-16, but it didn´t matter as the game had already been decided after 30 minutes. Ex E.Kentucky (NCAA) forward Eric Stutz who has a collection of over 30 hair braids nailed a three pointer and Van Der List scored, but Frankfurt matched the Dutch production as New York native Theodore found Barthel for the easy lay in and then finished himself as Frankfurt led 66-37. Then came the best spurt of ZZ Leiden since the first quarter as they went on a 9-1 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 68-46. In the run they got instant offense from two time Dutch Eredivisie Champion and 2015 Euro player Worthy De Jong who scored three buckets in the run sneaking inside twice notching reverse lay ups and then connecting on a tip in ally-oop play. Scott also contributed with a three pointer. However the ZZ Leiden run was short lived and the game then ultimately decided as Klein closed the chapter to game 4 nailing consecutive three pointers as Frankfurt led 74-46. Van De List improved his stat line with an additional trey and lay in while Mike Morrison closed out the game with a left handed lay in.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Konstantin Klein and John Little with 14 points a piece. Jordan Theodore and Johannes Voigtmann added 10 points a piece. ZZ Leiden were led by Joern Van Der List with 20 points and Deron Scott added 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners finished shooting 57% from the field and 50% from outside while ZZ Leiden shot 36% from the field and 37% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound battle 30-26 and had 13 turnovers while ZZ Leiden had 18 turnovers. The Fraport Skyliners continue to be the team to beat as they remain unbeaten at 4-0. They stayed faithful to their exceptional defense consistency and played an all around solid offensive game. Important to note was that the three guards Konstantin Klein, John Little and Jordan Theodore combined for 38 points showing some offensive guard terror. “We have a lot of weapons on this team. We can scored from outside and inside. Different nights different guys will be on. Tonight was one of those games where the guards stepped up. We don’t get his win without defense though. We held them to 51 points. If I remember correctly when we played them at Fraport the game went to the wire. Over the last few weeks. We’ve really come together as a team. Like I told you after the Bamberg win. We have set goals as a team and we will do whatever it takes to see our goals fulfilled”, warned Jordan Theodore. Next week they travel to Krka Novo Mesto and this could be a battle for the first and second place in the group as both teams should go on to win their last games even though FC Porto won´t be a cake walk for the Gordon Herbert gang.

Kruize Pinkins is a 22 year old 201cm forward from Marianna, Florida playing his first professional season in Germany with the Hebeisen White Wings currently averaging 13,2ppg, 9,3rpg and 1,2apg. He started his basketball career at Chipola (JUCO). He then played at USF (NCAA) form 2013-2015 and as a senior played 32 games averaging 13.9ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 65.0%. He spoke to German Hoops after the convincing 76-58 win against the Gladiators Trier.

 

 

Kruzie thanks for talking to German Hoops. Congrats on the big 76-58 win against the Gladiators Trier. How much more fun is it now to be playing basketball when your winning?

Everything always feels better when your winning. Our team is really coming together now.

After a pretty even first quarter, the game was won for Hanau in the second and third quarter where you led 60-40 after 30minutes. What adjustments did you make and what was key for getting the big lead then?

We played pretty good defense throughout the game and we just stuck to out game plan.

The Hebeisen White Wings didn´t shoot particulary well, but dominated the boards and held the opponent to 58 points. Was defense the biggest strength on the night in your eyes?

Defense was definitely a major part but we also played very unselfish guys were moving the ball and having fun and thats the key to winning.

In the last three games the Hebeisen White Wings Hanau have allowed 61 points. What has been the biggest adjustment that the club has made on defense that finally is starting to pay dividends?

We work on our defense every practice and we are finally realizing that we can really defend as a team. Coach always tells us that we can be great on defense, and its starting to show.

The club had many injury woes in the first two months as well as players coming in late and recently leaving. However the team has won three of the last five games where finding team chemistry is still a challenge. What has propelled this team to finally win games on a more standard basis?

Yeah, its good to have the full team together, but we didnt drop our head when we lost a few games. We kept coming to practice each day and working even harder. Its starting to pay off.

The team has a lot of talent and still guys that haven´t played to their full potential. How dangerous can this team be when the needed consistency is found?

We are a very deep team. When we play together and play great defense we can be a top team in our league

You are averaging 12,3ppg and 9,1rpg and have had some monster games against Rhondorf, Cologne and Trier, but also paid dues as a rookie. How pleased have you been with your rookie season so far on the floor?

Its going alright I guess, but I am never satisfied. There are some things that I am still learning, but I am just trying to get better each and every day and do what I can to help my teammates, and win games.

What has been the biggest adjustment for you coming from the NCAA to the European style that is still hard for you to figure out?

The traveling rule. It feels like I have had at least one travel call each game. But I am getting better at it, every day. It is also very physical and this is a pretty good league.

You have been up and down as a three point shooter shooting 16,7% as a junior and last season were at 39% and even hit four trey´s against Gonzaga and Portland while this season your shooting 1/10. Are you sometimes shaking your head at this weird stat?

Yeah my main thing now is being confident in my shooting. I know that if I keep working, that my shots will soon start to fall.

Is three point shooting something you feel you can add to more in the Simon Cote system or is your primary role scoring and getting rebounds?

My job is to help the team win. If that means knocking down my threes, thats what I have to do. If that means crashing the boards or playing in the paint, that is what I have to do

You went from ex NBA player Rex Walter as head coach at USF to experienced coach Simon Cote. Do have a special freedom under him now especially since you have carried the team in so many games that led to wins.

I learned a tremendous amount from Rex over my two years at USF. Great guy, proven player and coach. I am also learning a lot from Simon. I just try to take away the most knowledge I can from every coach. Learning from both Rex and Simon have been great.

How important has German Robin Christen been in the early going? He seems to have been a guy that often has kept the ship a float in key moments of games.

Robin is a great player. When he is playing well it takes our team to another level.

How did Rex Walter prepare and groom you best for a professional basketball career?

He was always tough on me because he wanted the best for me and also the advice he gave me day after day prepared me for the professional level because he has been there.

Thanks Kruize for the chat.

Frank Snow is a 24 year old 208cm center from west palm beach, Florida and is playing his first season as a professional in Germany with Saarlouis. He played at Grambling State and then moved to Southern(NCAA) where he played 59 NCAA games from 2013-2015. As a senior he played 31 games: 5.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 47.1%, FT: 57.3%. Currently for Saarlouis he is averaging 7,4ppg and 5,0rpg. He spoke to German Hoops recently.

Frank thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough 83-76 loss against the Uni Riesen Leipzig. The opponent closed out the game with a 8-0 run. How tough and why did Saarlouis fall in crunch time?
It was a very tough loss for us because we all felt as though we were the better team. During the second half the other team went into a 2-3 zone and we didn’t have a answer for the zone.
Were you able to grab anything positive form the loss besides winning the rebound battle and dishing out a team 20 assists?
Every game is a learning experience for us but it’s hard to get something positive out of a game where we beat ourselves.
Saarlouis is now 1-5 and in their second season having come from a level down the Regionaliga. It will be hard to win games on a consistent level when the team gives up more points than what it makes. What do you believe are the biggest factors on the defensive end that need to be fixed?
Consistency is the biggest factor in our defense
The three Americans of Ricky Easterling, Brennan Mcelroy and you average together more than half of the teams points. Is that German player that averages double figures missing on offense?
I don’t think it’s that, we just don’t stay composed when the game gets close.
Despite the 1-5 start, how positive are you that Saarlouis will be able to turn around their season and get on a winning streak?
We work hard during practice so I’m sure it will pay off.
How has it been as a rookie playing with Ricky Easterling. How has his leadership and basketball knowledge helped you in the first two months?
It’s helped me a lot, he is always positive despite how we have been losing games.
Does Saarlouis have to depend on Ricky Easterling for success? If he scores only 15 points then that is 10 less than what he usually makes. Does the team feel pressure to have to step it up on those occasions?
We have to depend on everyone on our team for success. No one person feels pressured, we all have jobs we have to do on the court in order to win.
Easterling lives off his unstoppable mid distance off balance game. Have you ever seen a player more dangerous than him in your career when he gets in the lane?
I’ve played with a lot of good players but none of which shoot the mid range shot like him.
What has been the most amazing shot he has made so far in a game or practice this season?
The most amazing shot was probably the 3 he made last night.
You are averaging 9,0ppg and4,4rpg after five games. How happy have you been with your rookie performance so far?
I feel as though I could do more to help the team.
What exactly is your role on the team? It seems like you have got that defensive stopper label early in the season?
My role is to come in the game and do whatever I need to do to win.
What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away on the court?
My ability to run the floor.
How has the adjustment been for you coming from the NCAA from Southern to the German Pro B? What has been the most difficult thing to get used to and where would you stack the Pro B in comparison with the NCAA?
It has been hard adjusting to everything. The most difficult thing to get use to has been the speed of the game.
You averaging 1,8 blocks per game after five games. Have you always been a shot blocker or did that develop over time?
I’ve always been able to time shots right to get the block.
You reached the SWAC Tournament final in 2015. What will you always remember from the final game that you won´t forget so quickly?
The thing I will always remember is how it felt to lose my last college basketball game.
The two most famous guys to have played at Southern have been Avery Johnson and Bobby Phills that played in the NBA, but a guy by the name of Chris Alexander also played at Southern winning the SWAC tournament in 2006 and played 5 years in the German pro A. Do you remember hearing stories of him when you were at Southern?
We hear stories about him and his team that won all the time at Southern.
How did Roman Banks prepare and groom you best for a professional basketball career?
Coach Banks was a very strict coach so in practice everything had to be perfect, he helped me become more disciplined And coachable.
Who won a one on one in practice you or Keith Davis?
We both had our days but of course I’m going to say me.
Where will the journey of the Miami Heat go this season? Will they make some noise in the playoffs?
The have a lot of veterans and some young players who are willing to learn from them so I believe they will surprise a lot of people this year.
What is the state of Lebron James in 2015? Will he ever be mentioned in the same breath as a Michael Jordan?
Lebron is one of the greatest but I don’t believe he will be mentioned with MJ
What was the last movie that you saw?
The last movie I saw was straight out of Compton.
Thanks Frank for the chat.