Kenny Demouchet is a 24 year old 193 cm guard that is currently playing in Peru and is the cousin of MBC guard Patrick Richard. Before starting his professional career he played at Opelousas LA (Mountain Valley Community Coll) (Opelousas High School) Missouri Baptist UniversityMountain View College and Jackson St. (NCAA): 22 games: 0.8ppg, 1.2rpg. He started his professional career in 2013 and played in Italy, the Louisiana Soul (ABA) and now in Peru. He currently is playing in Peru and spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Kenny thanks for talking to German Hoops. Last season you played in Italy and currently in Peru. How do you like the globetrotter lifestyle?

I am truly loving the globetrotter lifestyle. It allows me to see the world, experience different lifestyles and most of all represent Opelousas, Louisiana and inspire kids all over the world to never give up on your vision and thoughts.

Currently you are playing in the first Peru division for Universitario. The team is in last place. What have been the name reasons for being in the cellar?

The reason being for our team being in last place is that the coach brought me and my big man Jeorge Parra, which is the other import in after the season has started. Every other team has had their imports since March and we are just getting here the beginning of April. We are learning to play with the Peruvians and build chemistry. We have showed glimpse of us being a great team by beating the #1 team (Inmacculada) in the league who has only 1 loss to us. There was a game in which I had 21 points, 7 assist, and 6 rebounds. I just think coach has to allow me to be free more and let the offense flow like we did when we beat Inmacculada, instead of running plays every possession. So we just working and we WILL put the pieces together!

What kind of experience has it been overall for you in Peru. What is it like playing in a country where soccer rules over all other sports?

The experience here has been great. Despite the fact that Futbol is the main sport here I have still signed autographs everywhere I go and the people here loves me. If you always remain positive in every situation and think positive. If you do and think positive, Positive things will happen for you.

Currently you are averaging 17ppg, six rebounds and six assists. How happy have you been with your game in Peru? What area´s do you still like to improve on?

My stats are good for a point guard but they can be greater. I have been passing up on shots that I would usually take because I am trying to trust my teammates and have faith in them. I will definitely start shooting more because I am originally a scorer and I made that transition to playing point guard. I want to improve on using the pick n roll because I have to use it to just being a 1 on 1 type player and I want to be at 22 points and 8 assist a game guy by the time the season is over and be shooting 42% from 3 point line. Right now I only shooting 38% from 3 point line and like 44% overall.

How much fun is it playing with Venezuelen big man Jorge Parra who is averaging 16ppg and 20rpg? I would imagine that he likes your feeds inside.

Playing with my big man is awesome. He is very smart, mature and knows the game. He has a very high IQ. I love to pass up shots and feed him the ball or penetrate and dump it down to him. I don’t care if he takes 30 shots a game I know that once he starts getting double teamed I will have open 3 pointers that I will make majority of the time because I am a catch and shoot type player.

You are a combo guard. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court?

My hidden strength would be my defense and my ability to be a lights out shooter. I absolutely love to guard the best player and pick up 94ft. I don’t think my defense is unnoticed because I am averaging almost 3 steals a game and I always guard the other Americans here but never guard me. I think they might be scared of me. Lol.

Your cousin is MBC guard Patrick Richard who was an allstar this season and had a great season. What things have you picked up from his game over the years?

The things I have learned from Richard over my 25 years of living is his ability to create space to get a good shot off the dribble because I’m more of a catch and shoot guy and I love to attack and dunk while Richard doesn’t. He is more of just a shooter and he always been that way since High School.

Would Germany be an option for you if you had the chance? I am sure that your cousin has talked about how nice Germany is on and off the court?

Yes Richard has talked about how beautiful Germany is and yes my plan is to play in Germany for the 15-16 season. No doubt.

Last summer you played in Trieste,Italy- Italian Summer League-Playing in the championship game and winning the MVP. You averaged 14 points, 8 assist, 7 rebounds, 3 steals a game! Were you surprised how well you played despite it being your first time in Europe?

No I wasn’t surprised how well I played but it was a learning experience because the game is so different from America. It’s less 1 on 1 and more about team. Pass, pass, pass, pass, pass, shoot or lay up.

You obviously showed that you could keep up with the competition and win MVP. Is the European style one that you would prefer to the one in the States and other countries?

I would rather play the European style over the US or other countries any day. It’s so much spacing and everybody can score. It also makes the game so much easier.

You played one game for the Louisiana Soul (ABA). How cool was it playing in your home state? I guess that the next upgrade which would be nice would be the NBA Pelicans. The ABA is a semi pro league. I can imagine you don´t want to return and stay in Europe. Would you say you were above the ABA level?

The ABA was a good experience but I only did it for my home fans, friends and family. It’s not good competition and no defense being played. Yes, I’m way above ABA level.

Right after you finished at Jackson State(NCAA) you played at the in the NBA D-League draft/training camp in 2013. Did you not get any D-league offers and would the D-League be an option if a team came calling?

I got offers from Santa Cruz Warriors and Bakersfield Jam but didn’t make the cut. I don’t think it had anything to do with my game, it’s more political than anything. If a team in the D-League called right now I would drop everything and definitely go.

You played at Missouri Baptist University and Mountain View College before finishing at Jackson State(NCAA). Was it a tough adjustment for you changing so many colleges in a short time?

No it wasn’t a tough adjustment I feel that basketball is the same on every level except for mental aspect. On each level basketball is the same but mentally you have to grow(IQ).

Do you think your career might be somewhere else now had head coach Tavester Anderson have given you good minutes at Jackson State(NCAA)?

If Coach Tevester Anderson gave me minutes at JSU, I would be in the NBA right now. It was a selfish thing he done and I didn’t do anything or get in trouble. I was a 3.2 student(the only player on the team with a GPA over a 2). I don’t smoke nor drink and everybody in Jackson,Mississippi loved me, except him. Look at all I accomplished with only averaging 0.8 points and 2 minutes a game. So just think where I would be. I could have won an NBA championship by now. We would never know.

You season ends in July in Peru. Will you then attack the European market or possibly go back to the States to try D-League or return to South America?

After this season over here I’m going to go play in Europe in a top division. No doubt. If a D-League calls, cool. If not, it’s still cool. Nobody can stop me but ME, I will get there

Who will reach the 2015 NBA final and who will win it?

The Bulls and the Warriors. The Warriors will win it all.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I seen was, Coach Carter.

Thanks Kenny for the chat.

With the minutes leading up to the jump ball in game two between the Fraport Skyliners and FC Bayern Munich one could sense a loose atmosphere in the arena among fans and players in the do or die game before the do or die game as it was evident with a loss the 2004 BBL champion Skyliners would have their backs ultimately to the wall and with their key offensive player Johannes Voigtmann out for the season their fortunes didn´t seem to be any better. However almost two hours later all was well in the Fraport arena as the Fraport Skyliners had handed Germany´s most famous name their worst smacking since they entered the Beko BBL in 2010 in BBL play as they were crushed by 24 points and most likely had a worse taste than being swept by 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen. However even if the fans and players could celebrate the last minutes with pride, it was Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi that still had to bear the burden of being challenged mentally and physically as mentally he was involved in heated trash talk with Svetislav Pesic and Heiko Schaffartzik. “Pesic was getting on Doornekamp and I came over and told him to stop and sit down and Schaffartzik then told me to sit down. They better know I have Air Force moves so they better not mess with me”, joked ex Air Force player Jacob Burtschi. And physically during stretching he was blindsided from behind by Los Angeles native Justin Cobbs who had his own way of celebrating as he tackled Burtschi like a boy actually hit the American in an awkward position in that he was stuck with a cramp. Cobbs survived that and the club had little time to really enjoy the big win and were back on the floor 48 hours later in game three in Munich. FC Bayern Munich was focused to make amends for their embarrassing and lackluster performance in Frankfurt and needed a win again not to go back to Frankfurt with their backs to the wall. FC Bayern Munich made a vice versa to their game two performance by crushing the Fraport Skyliners at home 82-64 as they took a 2-1 game lead in the best of five series. FC Bayern Munich came out aggressive and never let up while the Fraport Skyliners had a bad shooting day and once again had difficulty controlling the board. “They kicked our butts and we had to dig ourselves out of a hole the rest of the way and that is tough to do against the defending champions. Munich thought that their name would carry them through game two and tonight they had more energy and just wanted it more than we did. It was a vice versa tonight”, stressed Jacob Burtschi. “Our aggression was very strong tonight, shot the ball well and played tough defense. We finally played up to the quality of our level”, stressed Bryce Taylor. In game two ex Oregon(NCAA) forward Bryce Taylor had a black day scoring  with only one field goal which occurred late in the fourth quarter in the 38^th minute, but in game three it was like day and night as Frankfurt saw a new side of Taylor, the mad side. ”I was angry tonight. I felt that we didn´t show who we are in game two. We had to step it up and I led by example. There are some games where you hit shots and miss shots, but I always bring the same energy”, Bryce Taylor. “Taylor is a veteran and didn´t have a good game two. He brought much energy with put back dunks and transition dunks and hit big shots. There is a reason why he has been around for such a long time in this league”, added Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi. “Taylor gave Munich a good spark and that is what good players do after a bad game. He got into an easy flow early with three pointers and transition baskets”, stated ex Auburn forward Quantez Robertson.

There was an amazing atmosphere as the game commenced and one knew right away this was playoff time. FC Bayern Munich got on the board quickly as Vasilije Micic caught Frankfurt snoring as he was all open in front of the bucket and Nihad Djedovic dished him the ball of the inbounds pass. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t hesitate long to get on the board themselves as Heidelberg native Danilo Barthel twisted and weaved around John Bryant using his quickness for the 2-2 game The first few minutes was a back and forth where Frankfurt was able to keep up with a few lead changes. California native Bryant made a put back and Jacob Burtschi got Frankfurt their first lead 5-4 with a three pointer. FC Bayern Munich then took the 6-5 lead with Bryce Taylor free three´s and never looked back in the game. Serb Dusko Savanovic then hit a step back jumper for the 8-7 advantage. FC Bayern Munich continued to get into their offensive groove going on a 7-2 run to extend their lead to 15-7. In the run, it was American Taylor who continued to keep the team energy up with an aggressive two hand dunk, a lay in from Bryant as he was fed by big man Savanovic and Taylor found his tough early with a three pointer which he didn´t in game two. FC Bayern Munich had the leverage with the high intensity, were very focused from the jump ball and pushed their defensive intensity and aggressiveness from game two. Frankfurt then went on a mini 4-0 run to scratch their ways back to 15-11 as they got back to back buckets inside as Quantez Robertson made a tip in off an Aaron Doornekamp back door pass and ex George Mason(NCAA) center Mike Morrison made a massive dunk. However the Frankfurt defense wasn´t on the same page as in game two as they just could get consecutive stops or limit easy shots in this phase. In the Munich run as Djedovic dropped a three pointer, Bryant a free throw and ex Bamberg guard Anton Gavel hit a one hand floater as FC Bayern Munich led 21-11. Frankfurt battled back in the last minutes closing out the first quarter with a 7-4 run to trail 25-18. In the run, the Fraport Skyliners got massive support from Sean Armand who came off the bench with a three pointer and free throws and a Barthel runner. FC Bayern Munich got added production from Taylor with a two hand dunk and Micic free throws. “We weren´t making shots, had turnovers and didn´t rebound well which hurt us in our start”, stressed ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi. FC Bayern Munich was shooting 50% from the field and 40% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 46% from the field and 40% from outside. Munich had the 11-5 rebound edge and had one turnover while Frankfurt had three turnovers.

FC Bayern Munich kept up their high intensity and well- oiled offensive machine as they won the second quarter 21-7. FC Bayern stormed out on a 8-1 run to extend their lead to 33-19 as the 2014 BBL champion got back to back three point shots from ex Alba Berlin guard Heiko Schaffartzik and Anton Gavel and Savaovic caught Frankfurt napping on transition defense making a lay in. After a Barthel lay in where ex Vanderbilt(NCAA) guard Kevin Bright fed him for the back door lay in, it was time for FC Bayern Munich to go on another run of 8-2 to extend their lead to 41-23 as Munich got much support inside with the athletic energy of Taylor as he made a tip in dunk, Djedovic made a lay in after catching a back door pass from Gavel, Bryant made a lay in and then came the pass of the game as Gavel unleased a bullet inside to Djedovic who finished all alone. Cobbs scored the lone Frankfurt points with a pull up jumper. A big difference in both runs was that FC Bayern Munich was hitting tough shots while Frankfurt wasn´t hitting anything. In the last few minutes of the second quarter Frankfurt had difficulty hitting free throws and Djedovic made free throws and went into half time making a buzzer beater trey as FC Bayern Munich had the comfortable 46-25 advantage at half time. “ Munich got easy baskets and transition buckets and we missed many shots”, added Quantez Robertson. FC Bayern Munich was shooting 50% from the field and 50% from the three point line while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 30% from the field and 20% from the three point line. FC Bayern Munich led the rebound battle 26-12 and both teams had five turnovers a piece.

In the third quarter, FC Bayern Munich continued their offensive domination, but had their worst phase of the game as the Fraport Skyliners went on a run and stepped up their defense, but FC Bayern Munich were able to up their lead a bit at the end to a big lead. FC Bayern Munich got off to a quick 5-0 run as Frankfurt coughed up the ball twice on their first two possessions and Munich got a three pointer from Djedovic and lay in for the 51-28 lead. FC Bayern Munich continued to have the comfortable lead as Bryant hit a turnaround jumper and Taylor scored inside. For Frankfurt Armand made free throws and Morrison who was playing extended minutes for the injured Johannes Voigtmann made a jumper just as the shot clock went off as FC Bayern Munich still led huge 56-32. Then came the best span of the Fraport Skyliners as they played their best defense of the game going to a full court press as aggressive defense fueled their offense leading to a timely 10-0 run to cut the FC Bayern Munich lead to 56-41. Frankfurt got to the free throw line with Robertson, Cobbs, and Morrison. Robertson and Cobbs also made field goals inside. In the last few minutes the Fraport Skyliners held their own and were trailing 61-48. FC Bayern Munich did a good job getting Frankfurt into further foul trouble getting to the line with free throws from Gavel and Micic and Robertson scored another bucket inside and Barthel made a scorching dunk cutting into the lane. “We anticipated their passes and got them out of rhythm on offense”, stressed Quantez Robertson. FC Bayern Munich was shooting48% from the field and 50% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners 32% from the field and 14% from the parking lot. FC Bayern Munich was still dominating the boards 34-24 and had 11 turnovers and Frankfurt nine turnovers.

With 30 minutes played the Fraport Skyliners were still in range of FC Bayern Munich trailing by 13 points, but in the fourth quarter FC Bayern Munich were able to wear down the Fraport Skyliners with their physicality and continued consistency on offense. FC Bayern Munich made a statement in the first four minutes to finally close the door on Frankfurt as they went on a 12-6 run to extend their lead to 75-54. It was the Bryce Taylor show who was never really satisfied and now just completely crushed Frankfurt as he scored 10 points of the 12 Munich. Taylor was a one man wrecking crew and just kept hitting shots as he hit a pull up jumper, step back, three pointer, free throws and a lay in. Frankfurt got some good production from Burtschi with a finger tip roll, Robertson lay in and Cobbs pull up jumper, but all in all not enough offense to compete with FC Bayern Munich. Frankfurt then got double production from Danilo Barthel with a strong lay in over Yassin Idbihi and a crushing two handed dunk as Doornekamp found him cutting to the rim as Frankfurt trailed only 75-58, but time was running out for Frankfurt. Frankfurt got some production from Johannes Richter with a lay in and Kevin Bright free throws. After Barthel dropped a one hand floater, it was Robin Benzing that ended the game with a three pointer. “Our biggest strength tonight was our ball movement against their traps. We found the open guys a lot forcing them to close out or take the shots. Our ball movement was simply very quick. We also set the tone with our agression”, warned Bryce Taylor. FC Bayern Munich was led by Bryce Taylor with 23 points and Nihad Djedovic contributed 19 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Danilo Barthel with 17 points. Justin Cobbs chipped in with 13 points and Quantez Robertson contributed 11 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 45% from the field and 42% from outside and the Fraport Skyliners shot 38% from the field and 12% from outside. FC Bayern Munich won the rebound duel 40-32 and had 12 turnovers and 14 turnovers. “We have to come out aggressive in game four, execute, rebound and just play our game”, warned Quantez Robertson. Game four is May 17^th in Frankfurt.

Despite playing inspired and strong basketball for 30 minutes in game one against FC Bayern Munich, the Fraport Skyliners fell victim for 40 minutes to the aggressive crashing of the offensive boards and overall better individual qualities of FC Bayern Munich and with fatigue being a factor in the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were unable to close out the game in a fashion they would have liked. However despite the loss, the biggest blow for the Fraport Skyliners was losing German national player Johannes Voigtmann who got a serious injury late in the second quarter ending his third season with Frankfurt in a most untimely manner. Game two in Frankfurt was technically not a do or die game, but in reality was because with a loss and being down 2-0 against Germany´s most famous sports team would most likely seal the semi-finals with game three being in Munich. With Voigtmann out with an injury and done for the season all he could do now was support his team as best possible from the bench, it now was the golden opportunity for baby twin tower Johannes Richter to give stellar inside basketball support something he has shown this season already in Eurochallenge play. Earlier in the season he scored in double figures twice against Danish team Baaken Bears and scored 15 points and six rebounds as Voigtmann was in foul trouble as he led the charge in the 74-64 victory. Richter disallowed any honey for the Baaken Bears as his play helped propel Frankfurt to the win, but now Richter had the biggest challenge of his career where he had to go head to head against American center john Bryant where the salaries between both players is as diverse as between a Lionel Messi and Felix Widwald of Eintracht Frankfurt. Richter was playing in his biggest game of his early career and the Fraport Skyliners didn´t want to go back to Munich with their backs to the wall, but they didn´t need Voigtmann as they crushed FC Bayern Munich 93-69 evening the series at 1-1. Fraport Skyliners head coach used the winning formula of small ball as the other big men had foul trouble while Johannes Richter wasn´t a factor and he took it in stride. “Every goal of a young player is too play, but we have very good players at the big positions. I just try to be ready and do what I need to be successful”, stressed ex Bamberg center Johannes Richter. In the first three games this season, the Fraport Skyliners played well for 6 of 12 quarters, but tonight they finally played a complete game and that showed with the result. “The team didn´t need me tonight. It was clear to see tonight that FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best basketball. We played well for 40 minutes except for a short spurt of not being concentrated, but played with steam most of the game. Munich has the best players in the league, but they didn´t play as a team. We fought for one another and took advantage of their unfocused play”, said Fraport Skyliner Johannes Voigtmann. FC Bayern Munich seemed to never be fully in the game and just couldn´t get their offense going as Frankfurt demonstrated first class basketball. “Frankfurt played hard and brought energy and we could match it. We knew it would be a tough game, but we couldn´t do anything against them taking us out of our game”, stressed ex Alba Berlin forward Jan Jagla. “We missed a golden opportunity in game and now it is a best of three. We might have won 24 points, but that means nothing”, warned Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi.

4,710 people were in the Fraport arena as Johannes Voigtmann could only watch from the sidelines as well as Konstantin Klein and head coach Gordon Herbert was back behind the bench after his virus infection. Georg Voigtman from Science City Jena was also in the arena supporting the team of his brother. FC Bayern Munich didn´t hesitate getting their offense running as they stormed out on a 11-3 run and lead. FC Bayern Munich wanted to take advantage with the void of the injured Voigtmann as ex ratiopharm Ulm center John Bryant was a beast in the paint getting a lay in, fade away jumper and offensive rebound and put back. Nihad Djedovic nailed free throws and Vasilije Micic full ended a coast to coast lay in Justin Cobbs made the only field goal in this run with a floater. FC Bayern Munich was defending at their best limiting Frankfurt to hard shots and made the pick and roll non-existent. However as often is the case in basketball, fortunes can turn for the better for a team out of nothing as the Fraport Skyliners finished the first half with a 14-3 run to lead 17-14. The Fraport Skyliners got that three pointer from Quantez Robertson which sparked their game. After that they kept consistency in their game inside out as Brooklyn native Sean Armand fed Florida native Mike Morrison for the crushing two handed dunk, California native Justin Cobbs scored transition points, Canadian Aaron Doornekamp buried a three pointer and Armand closed out the first quarter in fine fashion waiting in the corner getting the ball and waiting for Anton Gavel to fly by him and then positioning his feet for the buzzer beater three pointer as the arena erupted. “Frankfurt made the best of the absence of Johannes Voigtmann. Barthel and Morrison did a good job for Voigtmann, Frankfurt also played good small ball and got out on the transition”, stressed Science City Jena center Georg Voigtmann. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 43% from the field and 33% from outside while FC Bayern Munich was shooting 42% from the field and 0% from outside. FC Bayern Munich had the 10-6 rebound edge, but four turnovers and Frankfurt had three turnovers.

The second quarter was very tight and exciting as there were four lead changes and no team could break away for the bigger lead. FC Bayern Munich broke out on a quick 5-0 run to take the lead again21-17 as ex Penn State forward Jan Jagla dropped a three pointer Vladimir Stimac made a lay in and free throw. Then it was the time for Morrison to make big energy points as Cobbs couldn´t break free from the double team well, but found the big men and he skipped to the hoop with the two hand dunk finishing like a point guard. Jagla then made an offensive rebound and put back something which has haunted Frankfurt the whole series. Robertson then dropped another three pointer to tie the game at 22-22. Schaffartzik and Robertson then traded three pointers to tie the score at 25-25. FC Bayern Munich then recaptured the lead again as Bryant made free throws and then went over the double team of Doornekamp and Richter and finishing very high off the glass as Frankfurt trailed 29-25. Frankfurt continued not to allow FC Bayern Munich to break away as they remained consistent on offense as Cobbs made his bread and butter the step back and Armand connected on a floater to tie the game at 29-29. Frankfurt was an annoying menace on defense as their help defense was spot on and they were strongest getting into the passing lanes. Robertson then hit another trey ending the 7-0 run leading 32-29. Frankfurt ended the second quarter with a 6-3 run as Armand hit a runner, made free throws and Richter closed out the quarter with an offensive rebound and put-back as the Fraport Skyliners led 37-32. “There were many crucial referee calls in the second quarter. Tez sparked the team with many three´s and Armand was also a spark plug”, stressed Georg Voigtmann. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 48% from the field and 45% from the three point line while FC Bayern Munich was shooting 40% from the field and 17% from the three point line. FC Bayern Munich had the 18-14 rebound edge, but had eight turnovers and Frankfurt had seven turnovers.

In the third quarter, the Fraport Skyliners really opened up the game giving a shooting clinic hitting for 27 points and leading by 12 points after 30 minutes. The Fraport Skyliners got going fast going out on a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 44-32. Doornekamp hit a runner and Armand dropped a three pointer while Danilo Barthel and Cobbs only made one of two free throws. Then both teams went on little runs, but FC Bayern Munich couldn´t make any ground. FC Bayern Munich started the first run with ex Alba Berlin center Yassin Idbihi with an offensive rebound and put back and then Djedovic showed why his first step is deadly as he made an easy lay up to cut the Frankfurt lead to 44-36. However Frankfurt struck back with an Armand runner and Barthel lay in to extend their lead to 48-36. The 12 point lead for Frankfurt didn´t really stop as both teams executed well on offense as both teams were firing away. Djedovic, Armand and Micic hit three pointers, but Frankfurt still led 53-42. Down the stretch Doornekamp hit from outside as did Jan Jagla, but Frankfurt still led 61-48. An Armand floater and another Djedovic three pointer closed out the third quarter as the Fraport Skyliners led 64-51. “We as a team were able to find the open guys and got transition points as well”, added Quantez Robertson. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 50% from the field and 43% from the parking lot while FC Bayern Munich was shooting 43% from the field and 35% from the parking lot. FC Bayern Munich kept the rebound advantage at 27-25, but had 13 turnovers while Frankfurt had eight turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners out did themselves closing out the game in style banging home 29 points to get the series at 1-1. The Fraport Skyliners continued their offensive firing away going out on a 8-2 run to extend their lead to 71-53. Frankfurt head coach Gordon Herbert still had room for new plays out of his trick basket as he unraveled a touch down pass from the inbounds play as Doornekamp snuck behind the Munich defense getting back and Robertson found him for the slam dunk. Cobbs hit a three pointer and Barthel made free throws. Sometimes FC Bayern Munich can come back in a flash in which they give the ball to Bryant and he finished twice in a row with a finger tip role looking like an unbelievable agle and quick big man and three pointer as the Bavarian team crept back to 72-58. This may have been the strongest run by Munich in the game as they continued their run making it a 9-2 as German Paul Zipser made a runner and ex Bamberg guard Anton Gavel making a left hand lay in cutting the Frankfurt lead to 74-62. However Frankfurt didn´t have any bad moments at the end as they kept producing on offense as especially Justin Cobbs was on fire as he made free throws, a three pointer and a perfect ally-op pass to Mike Morrison extending the Frankfurt lead to 80-64. “My job as a point guard is too pick my spots when I get the opportunity I need to take it and just continue to learn with the flow. I have to know who is hot and get him the ball and that was possible with Armand and Robertson”, warned Justin Cobbs. Frankfurt was able to extend their lead to 86-66 as Morrison and Robertson made the arena cook with back to back two handed dunks. Bryce Taylor scored his first two points and only in the game in the 38^th minute and something nobody in Skyliner nation will remember except for the California native on the bus ride home. With 1,36 minutes to play and the game decided, Gordon Herbert inserted the German kids with Johannes Richter, Stefan Ilzhoefer, Kevin Bright and Max Merz. They mastered FC Bayern Munich closing out the game with a 5-1 run as Richter hit a mid-distance jumper and ex Vaderbilt guard Kevin Bright set a harsh explanation point with a three pointer as the 93-69 crushing was the first win of Black Tuesday as two hours later FC Bayern Munich beat FC Barcelona 3-2, but didn´t qualify for the Euroleague final. There was also some heated trash talk between Jacob Burtschi and Svetislav Pesic and Heiko Schaffartzik. “Pesic was getting on Doornekamp and I came over and told him to stop and sit down and Schaffartzik then told me to sit down. They better know I have Air Force moves so they better not mess with me”, joked ex Air Force player Jacob Burtschi. “We stayed with Frankfurt in the first half, but in the second half we didn´t play the way we wanted to. They simply played better than we did and we have to change it in game three”, warned Anton Gavel. “We knew that they would try to make a run. We made shots, free throws and easy lay ups. We rebounded better than in Game one. We watched much film and boxed out better in game two not letting the long rebounds up”, added Quantez Robertson.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Justin Cobbs with 18 points and six assists and Sean Armand with 18 points. Quantez Robertson added 16 points and Mike Morrison 14 points. FC Bayern Munich was led by John Bryant with 16 points. Nihad Djedovic contributed 14 points and Jan Jagla 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners finished shooting 52% from the field and 43% from outside while FC Bayern Munich finished shooting43% from the field and 35% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound duel 34-31 and had 10 turnovers while FC Bayern Munich had 17 turnovers. This was the most perfect game that the Fraport Skyliners played against Fc Bayern Munich and was always flowing on both ends of the court. “We wanted to get open shots tonight as Gavel and Djedovic do a good job getting out on the wings. We wanted it more on the boards than they did. We knew that without Voigtmann and Klein we had two play two levels higher and we did that. It makes it a lot easier to continue hitting shots when your doing that. On defense we did a better job taking away what they are good at. We also were lucky to get Savanovic into foul trouble. We played aggressive and took away their option”, stated Jacob Burtschi. Game three is in 48 hours and this is the early do or die game for the Fraport Skyliners. “We need rest now because we have a short rotation. The key   will be to execute better and get stops better than them”, warned Justin Cobbs.

In my basketball relationship with Fraport Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwas, there is only one predicable thing where I always know what will happen when he approaches me in the Catacombs of the Fraport arena after a game and that is the standard phrase “servus” and after I have said congratulations on the win, he mutters thanks. Other than that he could easily form a Blues Brothers 2 combination with Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert not in necessarily having a gag show act at the local comedy club, but in their constant same mode during games in that they both display an expressionless demeanor off the court in which you mostly don´t know really what the outcome of the game was at first glance. The only difference between both men is that Herbert will most likely wear something black, while Perwas doesn´t and Herbert will most likely answer back during the standard tough loss or nice win, while Perwas might not answer back during a loss as he is most likely still somewhere in that deciding crunch time play in his thoughts that was the difference costing Frankfurt the win. In game one in Munich, it was Perwass having that seldom opportunity to coach the team while Gordon Herbert stayed in the hotel in Munich nursing a virus having to watch the Fraport Skyliners consistency phobia once again exhibit it´s ugly presence while his virus illness might have been temporally replaced with a splitting headache in the fourth quarter. For Perwas, he also showed a moment of weakness in the fourth quarter as it was obvious in which the game had gone as he showed one of those expressions where his cheeks and lips came together with a slight nod of the head that it seemed apparent that after a good fight, Frankfurt wasn´t caving in with a lack of effort or fight, but that the game was going it´s normal course as Frankfurt just couldn´t keep up with the first three quarters as fatigue was setting in, the inside presence of Johannes Voigtmann was absent as he had been injured shortly before halftime and German national player Heiko Schaffartzik did was he does best hitting ridiculous bombs from anywhere from downtown and FC Bayern Munich just had an offensive answer for every Frankfurt connected shot thus slowing down the opponents come back.

If one looks back at the first two games against FC Bayern Munich, this was the best played game of the Fraport Skyliners in terms of consistency as they played with FC Bayern Munich for 30 minutes while in the first game it was 20 minutes and in their only win this season in Frankfurt where they staged an impressive comeback in the fourth quarter as it was only a very potent 10 minutes where Frankfurt played well. If there was a cheeky journalist who might have asked Perwas after the loss in Munich in game one if he would of perfered to rather have had a similar game in performance from Frankfurt like in the massive comeback in Frankfurt a few weeks ago, the ex German national player Perwas most definitely would have answered with “I only prefer 40 minutes of consistent basketball”. When looking back at the game, there were many factors that cost Frankfurt the victory and if one really listed all these factors, one probably would have been surprised that the Fraport Skyliners were trailing only 54-53 after three quarters instead of 15 points where the game most likely have been in the books. In the first 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners defended well not great, but still very commendable as FC Bayern Munich is the best scoring team in the Beko BBL. Offensively they also played sound basketball as it was many guys that led the charge as their ball movement was sound and Frankfurt was able to bounce back during runs from FC Bayern Munich then making importnan buckets. Guys like Sean Armand showed his typical scoring in bunches ability while Canadian Aaron Doornekamp hit big three pointers and Mike Morrison was the only real bright spot on the boards. FC Bayern Munich on the other hand weren´t at their best on offense as they missed many easy shots especially a John Bryant who wasn´t necessarily defended that hard, but he still left shots close to the rim and 15 footers on the rim as they didn´t want to roll in. The biggest blow to the Fraport Skyliners was in the last minute of the second quarter as German national player Johannes Voigtmann stepped on a Munich player and most possibly tore his anterior cruciate ligament and never returned back into the game. In the second half his expression said it all on the sidelines as he was expressionless as he most likely was thinking why me? Whyan injury now in this crucial time of the season. Despite no Voigtmann and FC Bayern Munich controlling the offensive glass in the first half as if they owned a patent on it, the Fraport Skyliners played their best basketball of the game in the third quarter limiting FC Bayern Munich to their fewest quarter points with 15. The game was close as there were seven lead changes and Frankfurt was believing they could win this game. However the game of basketball has four quarters and not three as in the last quarter, the Fraport Skyliners had to accept reality as FC Bayern Munich shifted into high gear and just played the way they know how scoring 29 points and making the 83-72 result at the end not really explain the closeness of how the game was for the most part. Some of the key factors in the fourth quarter as to why FC Bayern Munich came to life again was simple. They disallowed Frankfurt to get off on a good start which they despertately needed and went on a 8-0 run to motor their self confidence. Heiko Schaffartzik stepped up making back to back three pointers and later on John Bryant also nailed a three pointer which has been a mainstay in his game for years. This put a damper in their self confidence of the Fraport Skyliners, but they never gave up as they continued to fight and claw back making shots, but just couldn´t get under an eight point deficit down the stretch. In the post game summary the absence of Johannes Voigtman really hurt Frankurt and their biggest menace on the night was their inability to clear the paint being able to secure the rebounds as FC Bayern Munich seemed to have the height and position on almost every missed shot. FC Bayern Munich ended the game shooting 42% from outside as that was only determined with a strong fourth quarter shooting wise as they did a heck of a job making key decisions from the parking lot where no one better to give the ball to than Heko Schaffartzik when one needs the big shots. Frankfurt shot a dismal 29% from outside as consistency was a big factor there. All in all FC Bayern Munich made better use of their individual qualities as their budget is four times greater than the Fraport Skyliners and that becomes a big factor in any game. Another huge factor was the continued downward curve in the play of Justin Cobbs in the last two months. It is no secret that his gas tank is running on empty after a long rookie season where in the last four years in the NCAA his season had ended pretty much when this inconsistent period started in Bonn at the beginning of March. Teams also seem to have his number as they know what he will do. The Frankfurt pick and role game has become nonexistent with Cobbs at the helm which limits his opportunities and more than not gives him the option to finish more himself which also isn´t working as well anymore. His outside shooting also has faltered as he is 7/32 in the last 11 games and his usual masterpiece pull jump up balance jumper also hasn´t fallen as he has been 32/77 in the last 11 games. For the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance to win this series, they need a potent Cobbs and that wasn´t the case in game one in Munich. Cobbs had an average day in the offensive stats with 11 points and seven assists, but when you add his five turnovers, that will change the grade from a C to a D. Taking care of the ball is the most important duty of a point guard, but in this 11 game span, the Los Angeles native has coughed up the ball five times in six of the 11 games. Cobbs needs to have consistent games for the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance of playing at least close to consistent ball over the 40 minutes. Game two now is only 72 hours away and even though this isn´t technically a do or die game, it is because if Frankfurt loses, FC Bayern Munich will most likely close out the series in Munich on Thursday. Hopefully Gordon Herbert will be healthy again for game two and maybe the best medicine for his team is to edit together the first three quarters of game one and the last quarter of the miraculous come back in the 76-73 win a few weeks ago in Frankfurt and keep showing his team nonstop until Tuesday what his team is capable of. If Frankfurt loses Tuesday and the series soon after, then Gordon Herbert and Klaus Perwas could really perform a Blues Brothers basketball act, because they then will have the time for it and could try their hand at basketball comedy even if though it won´t work, because that expressionless demeanor will be too depressing for anyone wanting to laugh.In my basketball relationship with Fraport Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwas, there is only one predicable thing where I always know what will happen when he approaches me in the Catacombs of the Fraport arena after a game and that is the standard phrase “servus” and after I have said congratulations on the win, he mutters thanks. Other than that he could easily form a Blues Brothers 2 combination with Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert not in necessarily having a gag show act at the local comedy club, but in their constant same mode during games in that they both display an expressionless demeanor off the court in which you mostly don´t know really what the outcome of the game was at first glance. The only difference between both men is that Herbert will most likely wear something black, while Perwas doesn´t and Herbert will most likely answer back during the standard tough loss or nice win, while Perwas might not answer back during a loss as he is most likely still somewhere in that deciding crunch time play in his thoughts that was the difference costing Frankfurt the win. In game one in Munich, it was Perwass having that seldom opportunity to coach the team while Gordon Herbert stayed in the hotel in Munich nursing a virus having to watch the Fraport Skyliners consistency phobia once again exhibit it´s ugly presence while his virus illness might have been temporally replaced with a splitting headache in the fourth quarter. For Perwas, he also showed a moment of weakness in the fourth quarter as it was obvious in which the game had gone as he showed one of those expressions where his cheeks and lips came together with a slight nod of the head that it seemed apparent that after a good fight, Frankfurt wasn´t caving in with a lack of effort or fight, but that the game was going it´s normal course as Frankfurt just couldn´t keep up with the first three quarters as fatigue was setting in, the inside presence of Johannes Voigtmann was absent as he had been injured shortly before halftime and German national player Heiko Schaffartzik did was he does best hitting ridiculous bombs from anywhere from downtown and FC Bayern Munich just had an offensive answer for every Frankfurt connected shot thus slowing down the opponents come back. If one looks back at the first two games against FC Bayern Munich, this was the best played game of the Fraport Skyliners in terms of consistency as they played with FC Bayern Munich for 30 minutes while in the first game it was 20 minutes and in their only win this season in Frankfurt where they staged an impressive comeback in the fourth quarter as it was only a very potent 10 minutes where Frankfurt played well. If there was a cheeky journalist who might have asked Perwas after the loss in Munich in game one if he would of perfered to rather have had a similar game in performance from Frankfurt like in the massive comeback in Frankfurt a few weeks ago, the ex German national player Perwas most definitely would have answered with “I only prefer 40 minutes of consistent basketball”. When looking back at the game, there were many factors that cost Frankfurt the victory and if one really listed all these factors, one probably would have been surprised that the Fraport Skyliners were trailing only 54-53 after three quarters instead of 15 points where the game most likely have been in the books. In the first 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners defended well not great, but still very commendable as FC Bayern Munich is the best scoring team in the Beko BBL. Offensively they also played sound basketball as it was many guys that led the charge as their ball movement was sound and Frankfurt was able to bounce back during runs from FC Bayern Munich then making importnan buckets. Guys like Sean Armand showed his typical scoring in bunches ability while Canadian Aaron Doornekamp hit big three pointers and Mike Morrison was the only real bright spot on the boards. FC Bayern Munich on the other hand weren´t at their best on offense as they missed many easy shots especially a John Bryant who wasn´t necessarily defended that hard, but he still left shots close to the rim and 15 footers on the rim as they didn´t want to roll in. The biggest blow to the Fraport Skyliners was in the last minute of the second quarter as German national player Johannes Voigtmann stepped on a Munich player and most possibly tore his anterior cruciate ligament and never returned back into the game. In the second half his expression said it all on the sidelines as he was expressionless as he most likely was thinking why me? Whyan injury now in this crucial time of the season. Despite no Voigtmann and FC Bayern Munich controlling the offensive glass in the first half as if they owned a patent on it, the Fraport Skyliners played their best basketball of the game in the third quarter limiting FC Bayern Munich to their fewest quarter points with 15. The game was close as there were seven lead changes and Frankfurt was believing they could win this game. However the game of basketball has four quarters and not three as in the last quarter, the Fraport Skyliners had to accept reality as FC Bayern Munich shifted into high gear and just played the way they know how scoring 29 points and making the 83-72 result at the end not really explain the closeness of how the game was for the most part. Some of the key factors in the fourth quarter as to why FC Bayern Munich came to life again was simple. They disallowed Frankfurt to get off on a good start which they despertately needed and went on a 8-0 run to motor their self confidence. Heiko Schaffartzik stepped up making back to back three pointers and later on John Bryant also nailed a three pointer which has been a mainstay in his game for years. This put a damper in their self confidence of the Fraport Skyliners, but they never gave up as they continued to fight and claw back making shots, but just couldn´t get under an eight point deficit down the stretch. In the post game summary the absence of Johannes Voigtman really hurt Frankurt and their biggest menace on the night was their inability to clear the paint being able to secure the rebounds as FC Bayern Munich seemed to have the height and position on almost every missed shot. FC Bayern Munich ended the game shooting 42% from outside as that was only determined with a strong fourth quarter shooting wise as they did a heck of a job making key decisions from the parking lot where no one better to give the ball to than Heko Schaffartzik when one needs the big shots. Frankfurt shot a dismal 29% from outside as consistency was a big factor there. All in all FC Bayern Munich made better use of their individual qualities as their budget is four times greater than the Fraport Skyliners and that becomes a big factor in any game. Another huge factor was the continued downward curve in the play of Justin Cobbs in the last two months. It is no secret that his gas tank is running on empty after a long rookie season where in the last four years in the NCAA his season had ended pretty much when this inconsistent period started in Bonn at the beginning of March. Teams also seem to have his number as they know what he will do. The Frankfurt pick and role game has become nonexistent with Cobbs at the helm which limits his opportunities and more than not gives him the option to finish more himself which also isn´t working as well anymore. His outside shooting also has faltered as he is 7/32 in the last 11 games and his usual masterpiece pull jump up balance jumper also hasn´t fallen as he has been 32/77 in the last 11 games. For the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance to win this series, they need a potent Cobbs and that wasn´t the case in game one in Munich. Cobbs had an average day in the offensive stats with 11 points and seven assists, but when you add his five turnovers, that will change the grade from a C to a D. Taking care of the ball is the most important duty of a point guard, but in this 11 game span, the Los Angeles native has coughed up the ball five times in six of the 11 games. Cobbs needs to have consistent games for the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance of playing at least close to consistent ball over the 40 minutes. Game two now is only 72 hours away and even though this isn´t technically a do or die game, it is because if Frankfurt loses, FC Bayern Munich will most likely close out the series in Munich on Thursday. Hopefully Gordon Herbert will be healthy again for game two and maybe the best medicine for his team is to edit together the first three quarters of game one and the last quarter of the miraculous come back in the 76-73 win a few weeks ago in Frankfurt and keep showing his team nonstop until Tuesday what his team is capable of. If Frankfurt loses Tuesday and the series soon after, then Gordon Herbert and Klaus Perwas could really perform a Blues Brothers basketball act, because they then will have the time for it and could try their hand at basketball comedy even if though it won´t work, because that expressionless demeanor will be too depressing for anyone wanting to laugh.

Chris Randolph is a 27 year old 191cm guard that just finished his first professional season in Germany with the Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). He played college ball in the States with Washington Adventist University (USCAA) and S.Virginia (NAIA). He started his professional career with the Georgia Gwizzlies (ABA): 15games: 8.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.1apg, 2.2spg. He also played with the Chihuahua Vive League Tour (Chihuahua,Mexico). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Chris thanks for talking to German Hoops Where are you now and what are you looking most forward to doing this summer?

Thank you for interviewing me really appreciate it, currently I am back home in Virginia and I am looking forward to working out. This is offseason so this is the time to get better and get ready for next season. Getting a lot of shots up, conditioning, and plenty of drills. Want to focus on getting faster and athleticism the most this offseason.

You played last season in Germany with two teams Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). How would you summarize your first season in Europe?

Yes and things just didn’t work out with the Mustangs so we parted ways but I appreciate them giving me the opportunity.

You started the season with Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). What were the main reasons for having to change teams?

Yes absolutely I think the toughest part on the court was the style of play there, also getting used to the high expectations that European teams have for imports they don’t want any excuses just wins you are expected to be the man and set the example. Off the court adjusting to being places and nobody speaking English was challenging at first especially since German is such a tough language to learn. Also to it getting dark very fast in the winter time can be kind of depressing lol but it was a great experience.

You had played in Mexico before coming to Germany. You stated that your game is smoother in Germany. Is Europe a place you will concentrate on prolonging your professional career in the future?

Yes it’s a lot smoother I’ve learned to have more of an overall game and not just be known as a shooter and also my footwork has gotten a lot better since I have gotten a chance to work one on one with a few European teammates. Yes I think Europe will be a place I stay for the long run but I also wouldn’t mind going back and playing in Latin America again at some point. I actually would like to come back and play again in Germany in Regionaliga 1 or 2 if possible

Marler was on a good way of making the playoffs, but failed in the last month? What were the main reasons for the team not making the playoffs?

Yes we were I believe we just didn’t stay as hungry as we were at the beginning of the second half of the season. We had a very young team outside of us 3 imports so we had a lot of growing pains.

How much fun was it playing together with Kai King? What was the most important thing that you learned from the veteran?

It was a joy he is a hell of player one of the best guards I have ever played with and seen and an even better person. He is one of my best friends now. I consider him a brother we hung out every day while we were in Germany. I learned so much from him on and off the court just on how to be a better professional and change my game up. We battled every day in practice we were like Jordan and Pippen both of us hate to lose and we both talk a lot of trash so practices used to be really competitive when we would play against each other. I think the most important thing I learned from him was how this business is and how to stay consistent on the court and how to better take care of my body. We are hoping we will get to be a package deal somewhere and play with each other again for the upcoming season.

Your season stats at Marler were 7.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.2apg, 2.2spg. Were you content with your stats? What steps did you make as a player in Germany this season on the court?

I was content in the sense that the goal was to win a championship and we were winning and 1st place so that’s all that matters to me I’m a team player and love to win so coach asked me to be more of an overall player and do a little bit of everything which was a struggle at first but got easier as the season went on. I’m use to scoring a lot more but playing this way has really helped my game. So now I am able to effect the game in so many ways now.

You played college ball your last two seasons at S.Virginia (NAIA). How did head coach Bryan Pendelton get you prepared best for a professional basketball career?

He prepared me in the sense of the workouts we did in the pre season I have never worked that hard in my life even at my division 2 school prior to coming there so he prepared me to be able to go through any workouts and also how to appreciate the game.

As a rookie in 2012-2013 you stayed in the States and played for the Georgia Gwizzlies. What kind of experience in general was it playing semi pro ball? What positives did you take from this season?

I was so young at that point and used to getting spoiled in college with team stuff shoes, sweatsuits and it’s just not like that in the ABA. You are playing with grown men some guys go to work every day and have families. That’s where I first learned what it meant to be a professional and the ins and outs to the business with teams and agents. I had a great experience.

The best known teammate you had in your ABA season was ex Tennesse guard Ramar Smith. What things could you pick up form his game that season?

I didn’t get to play a lot of games with him but I learned just how to know when to let the game come to me and when to take over if need be.

In your second season you played for the Chihuahua Vive League Tour (Chihuahua,Mexico). How were you able to cope with the language barrier and style of play in general?

Yes I loved it in Mexico the fans were great and showed us a lot of love daily. I know some Spanish so it was a smooth transition for me as far as how they play they get up and down very fast pace.

What are your future plans? How excited are to get involved with the summer transfer process where finding a team is always an experience?

Future plans is to find a team between August and October. It’s always exciting and I love the recruiting process always have even when I was in high school with colleges. I have gotten 3 offers so far one in Germany,Spain, and in talks with Peru. More should come as the seasons are over and teams start recruiting between now and July. I’m excited though I’m hungry for a championship so I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next season.

How does a normal summer day workout look like for you on and off the court?

A normal workout day for me is getting shots up mid-day and lifting and then if my good friend Glen Dandrige who is a pro overseas also is back home then we get in the gym at nights and run and do drills. Other than that I work and I love to sleep lol.

Who will reach the NBA final this season and win it all?

Haha Cleveland no question I’m a big LeBron fan.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Goodfellas.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn are celebrating their 20 year anniversary this season and recently fans were able to vote for their 20 legends and it is very difficult to believe that with all that vast talent that has put on a Bonn jersey over the last 20 years that the club has never won a title, but instead have been known as the German version of the NFL Buffalo Bills who only reached 4 Super Bowls in all, but never were able to utter the famous words after “I´m going to Disney Land which was first said in 1987 as New York Giants star quarterback Phil Simms had the honor of making this a standard phrase for Super Bowl winners. When you look at the Bonn legends over the years, guys like 1993 NCAA champion with North Carolina with TBB Trier head coach Henrik Roedl Derrick Phelps, sniper Hurl Beechum, 38 year old Rimantas Kaukenas who is still playing and won the Eurochallenge last season, old school style John Bowler who had his own way of scoring even if it hurt just watching him in the paint, German Alex King who went from Murat Didin´s doghouse to Alba Berlin captain and solid Euroleague player, ex NBA player Vincent Yarbrough that has those Steph Curry like piercing eyes, but had the misfortune of getting to know the Bonn seats more than the floor as he was injured so often, but gave his best when he was healthy, Chris Ensminger who was quietly proclaimed finished as a player in 2008 after he left Bamberg, but found a second life in Paderborn and then went on to continue his illustrious career and play four more years in Bonn and was second in rebounding in the BBL in the his late 30´s showing that he still had so much left in his gas tank or current Bonn sharp shooter Benas Veikalas who is the heart and soul of the team. All these amazing and skilled players, plus so many more have worn the Bonn jersey, but never been able to host a title in the air. Since coming into the BBL in 1996, the club has had a very strong run making the playoffs each season except for three and having the chance to win titles on many occasions, but always coming in second as they reached the cup final three times and five times second for the league title most recently in 2008 losing to Alba Berlin and 2009 to the EWE Baskets Oldenburg where they looked as good as the winner, but lost it in the last seconds in a hard fought five game series. There isn´t more that the Telekom Baskets Bonn can do than try try again each season. The good news this season is that they aren´t meeting Oldenburg who they lost two last season in a tough five game series as the 2015 cup winner Oldenburg seem to have their number in big games. This post season, the Telekom Baskets Bonn meet ratiopharm Ulm and can try try again to win that first title even if winning 9 games isn´t as easy as two in a cup top four, but in basketball anything is possible. After missing the Beko BBL playoffs the last time in 2011, Bonn has made it back four straight years and head coach Matthias Fischer has improved the team each season since coming in 2013 to a fifth place finish last season and a potent fourth place finish this season with a 23-11 record. The Telekom Baskets Bonn look back on a consistent BBL season having a six game, five game and two four game winning streaks. The biggest wins of the season was against the Brose Baskets Bamberg, FC Bayern Munich, Oldenburg and sweeping the always tough Artland Dragons. This season they had little problems with offensive firepower as they scored 80 plus points 20 times, but also knew how to give up many points giving up 80 points or more 19 times. In the Eurocup play they had a non-rewarding 4-6 record and three of the four wins were by not more than combines six points showing they had the nerves in crunch time, but also had some forgettable games like mustering only 48 points against Strassburg. Bonn has a solid 10 man rotation where no player averages more than 12 points a game, but the club relies heavily on their starting five for consistent production. The club is led by experienced 32 year old Lithuanian Tadas Klimavicius(12,8pp, 6,2rpg, 1,6apg) who is the work horse on offense. He scored in double figures in 23 BBL games including a 28 effort against Braunschweig coming mostly from the bench . Angelo Caloiaro(12,4ppg, 4,5rpg, 1,5apg) is playing his second season in Germany after a strong first season with MBC. After being the main focus in Weissenfels last season, the American had to adapt to a more talented scoring team and found his role quickly scoring in double figures 23 times. He is a hard working inside/out player that scored 26 points against Bremerhaven and Bayreuth. The heart and soul of the team is sharp shooter Benas Veikalas(11,oppg, 2,5rpg, 1,3apg) who has been with Bonn since 2011. Despite hitting never more than three three pointers a game nine times, he is shooting 40% from downtown and his leadership is irreplaceable. Ryan “Air” Brooks(10,5ppg, 3,4rpg, 2,0apg) is playing his second season with Bonn and is always dangerous on offense especially with his deadly mid distance shot. He had a lull in February and March not scoring in double figures in nine straight games, but finished strong scoring in double figures in the last four games including 20 points in the win against FC Bayern Munich. With Americans Eugene Lawrence(7,4ppg, 2,2rpg, 5,3apg) and Richard Mcconnell(8,8ppg, 2,2rpg, 3,9apg) the club may have the best point guard duo in the league. The team has the perfect mix between the physical bull like penetrator of Lawrence who can always draw a foul or find the open man to the strong shooting Mcconnell who is just as unselfish as he finds his teammates at ease. The team rounds out the roster with three experienced Germans with Dirk Madrich(8,3ppg, 3,9rpg), Andrej Mangold(3,8ppg, 2,2rpg, 21apg), Steve Wachalski(6,9ppg, 2,4rpg) and youngster Florian Koch(2,9ppg). Bonn is the 12^th professional teamfor Madrich and the physical big man has played in countries like Greece and France and his career seemed over in 2011 after he moved from BBL team Giessen to Pro B team Vechta. However his career was recharged under Pat Elze and he had a super season in the BBL last season and has been an important role player for Bonn showing he can play at the BBL level. Mangold is that trusty point guard who lives from his speed, penetration and defense while Wachalski is having best season at 31 years old. After six years in the Regionaliga and two in the Pro B, he finally made the jump to the BBL in 2010 with Bayreuth. He toiled two seasons in the Pro A with MBC, but got the trust from Fischer last season being a spark plug form the bench, but has an even more important role this season as he has scored in double figures seven times and who could forget his 26 point outburst against TBB Trier where he hit eight three pointers. Ratiopharm Ulm returned back to the German BBL in 2006 and have matured well into a top team in the league even if they have a type of final trend brewing like Bonn has with two cup finals in 2013 and 2014 and a league final in 2012. Mike Taylor got ratiopharm Ulm going in a positive direction and Thorsten Leibenath has continued to bring success to the team since arriving in 2011. After finishing second and third and sixth last season, the team had a solid fifth place finish this season with a record of 21-13. Ratiopharm Ulm beat the teams that they needed to and their biggest wins were sweeping the Artland Dragons and Telekom Baskets Bonn, but were unable to defeat any on the big three teams. They have the deepest roster after the big three and really could beat any one on a good day with their destructive offensive arsenal. Their best stint during the season was a five and six game winning streak. They scored 80 points or more 24 times, but like Bonn had even more difficulty keeping the opponent below 80 points as they gave up 80 points or more 21 times. The team had six guys averaging double figures in scoring showing that they can find many ways to score. The leading scorer is German national player Per Guenter(13,4ppg, 1,6rpg, 4,9apg) who recently signed an extension to remain in Ulm. Guenther is the best German point guard playing in the BBL as he has become such a complete player scoring in double figures 23 times and being a scorer if needed in crunch time and is the teams best three point shooter at the moment. Tim Olhbrecht(13,0ppg, 5,5rpg) is back in the BBL after a two year stay in the States that brought him 3 NBA games for the memories. He has become a consistent player in the BBL having scored in double figures 24 times and registering 4 double doubles. Will Clyburn(12,9ppg, 7,7rpg, 1,9apg) belonged to the most improved players in the league , leads the team in rebounding, steals, third in scoring and third in assists. He scored in double figures in 23 games and had a masterful 28 points against Ludwigsburg. He is the teams MVP this season. Greek Ian Vougioukas(11,4ppg, 2,9rpg) brought his 62 Euroleague experience in March and could really make this series a depth factor down low. Slovenian Jaka Klobucar(11,3ppg, 2,7rpg, 3,2apg) has been most valuable with his versatility and added scoring punch from the bench. Brion Rush(10,5ppg, 2,1rpg, 1,9apg) came in February and is another talented guard that gave immense support with his scoring in wins against Artland and BG Goettingen and is a pest on defense. Marten Leunen(7,7ppg, 3,7rpg, 1,7apg) is the glue that keeps the team together as the 2008 Houston Rocket NBA draft pick played the last five years in the Italian Serie A and shines with his experience, team play and is the teams current best three point shooter. Philipp Schwethelm(5,4ppg, 2,5rpg) already played his first BBL game at age 16 with Cologne and is still only 26 and is known for his aggressive defense, but can also be very effective as he showed scoring 22 points against the Fraport Skyliners with five three pointers. Isaiah Philmore(3,7ppg, 1,9rpg) is a rookie who doesn´t get many minutes, but plays effective for his 10 minutes per game and is another big body down below. Adam Hess(2,4ppg, 1,4rpg) is 34 and can still hit the three pointer and had strong games against his ex team Phoenix Hagen with 16 points and 12 against Crailsheim, but his worth is more his experience and vocal leadership as he gets limited minutes. Rookie Deonte Burton(1,8ppg) who had a stellar career at Nevada(NCAA) and played NBA Summer league with the Washington Wizards in 2014 has been lost in the roster mix with little playing time, but the experience he got playing with top players should help him with his career in Europe should he remain. He is another big scoring threat waiting to get on the floor. This will be a very exciting series and will go five games. When looking at the stats, there isn´t much that separates both teams as Bonn has the upper hand in scoring points per game 84-83, field goal percentage 48%-46% and assists 18-15 while ratiopharm Ulm have the slight edge in three point shooting 37%-35%, rebounding 34-33, turnovers 12-13. Ratiopharm Ulm go into the series having won their last meeting in Bonn 93-87 on the last game day securing this series instead of having to face FC Bayern Munich had they lost there. Ulm also won the other meeting at home 82-77. Ratiopharm Ulm obviously showed that in both games that they had the better nerves in crunch time. It is difficult to name one top duel of the series as there are so many to name, but Will Clyburn against whomever Bonn puts up against him as this is a huge mismatch in favor of Ulm as they already have a huge front court with Olhbrecht and Leunen, plus the other beasts from the bench with Philmore and Vougioukas. The point guard position is another big duel as Guenther and Lawrence make both teams go as both seem to rarely have a day off. ratiopharm Ulm won the rebounding duel in both games and have the big size and physicality edge in the paint as well as the experience and depth from the bench. Bonn will need to play transition as much as possible and rely on their outside shooting. Both are offensive power houses , but all in all defense will decide this series if a team finally decides to play defense.

This season in German basketball there have been many things that went accordingly to plan and what many probably predicted like with the Crailsheim Merlins moving back to the second division, Ludwigsburg monster Jon Brockman winning the rebound trophy with the best per game average, the s.Oliver baskets Wurzburg returning back to the BBL, Fraport Skyliner Johannes Voigtmann following in the footsteps of teammate Danilo Barthel and winning the league´s most improved player award as the Skyliner coaching staff continues to believe in their youth and Braunschwieg forward Derrick Allen still not slowing down as the 34 year old can still ballerina to points and rebounds inside. However on November 19^th on a cold night around 21:15, the Fraport Skyliners had just experienced a bitter 72-70 buzzer beater loss in the Eurochallenge to Swedish team Boras in a foreign gym in Russelsheim only 23 kilometers away from their real living room Fraport arena and were 1-2 in the international competition and had a bleak 2-7 record in the Beko BBL and were living in the league cellar with little support as the club was undergoing a nasty injury bug as they had a walked wounded list as long as the weekly grocery list of Shaq. You never know exactly how head coach Gordon Herbert is feeling since his back problems is no secret, but one thing is for sure just how painful this period was was impossible to read on his face as he hides it as perfectly as Rajon Rondo tries his jump shot, but can´t when he has to attempt it. If anyone had predicted then on November 19^th that the Fraport Skyliners would reach the Eurochallenge final four and finish the BBL season in sixth place and reach the playoffs, one would have declared that person for mentally insane and given that perplexed look. However the team got many guys back healthy, turned the season around thanks to the break out rookie season of Justin Cobbs and Johannes Voigtmann who became a house hold name in Europe thanks to his consistent and potent play on the court especially in the Eurochallenge. With the Fraport Skyliners accomplishing so much this season despite having low odds five months ago, now it´s time for me to make the boldest of predictions and possibly most insane of the Fraport Skyliners somehow clawing, fighting and pushing themselves by FC Bayern Munich. The Fraport Skyliners played superb in three of the eight quarters this season against Germany´s most famous team and won one game and led at halftime of the other game in Munich by double digits before caving in in the third quarter. I am probably the only one to make this prediction, but someone has to do it even if the chances on paper for the Fraport Skyliners to get to the semi-finals is about as probable as Frankfurt Skyliner Mike Morrison ever being allowed to take a three pointer. The Fraport Skyliners finished the regular season in sixth place with a record of 20-14. After that horrendous start, they regrouped and had a 18-7 record. Had they started better, they may have been able to have competed with the Telekom Baskets Bonn for fourth place. They finished off the BBL season strong winning six of their last seven games despite losing both games at the Eurochallenge Final 4 in Turkey. Their biggest staple is their defense where they allowed 70 points or less 10 times. As stated so often this season, the turning point of the season came in November as the club had to react to the injury of starting point guard Richard Williams by bringing in rookie Justin Cobbs who had started the season with VEF Riga in Latvia, but didn´t find a rhythm and was scooped up by Frankfurt. Cobbs came and the rest is history as he led the team to a 17-6 record in the BBL and 10-2 record in the Eurochallenge which equates to a 27-8 record. Cobbs(14,1ppg, 2,6rpg, 4,5apg) brought a high basketball IQ with him and used his cleverness and calmness in crunch time situations more often than not to help the team to victory most importantly against Enisey Krasnoyarsk where he led a second half charge from 19 down to win 85-80 and get to the Eurochallenge Final 4. The club also got solid production form others like rookie Sean Armand(13,1ppg, 3,0rpg, 2,4apg). He proved to be a scoring threat in so many games scoring in double figures in 23 BBL games and 11 Eurochallenge games. His 22 points against FC Bayern Munich helped lead the charge to the win in the fourth quarter and his 31 points against Avtodor and 23 points against Enisey Krasnoyarsk despite being loses showed that he can score with the best of them at an international level. Third year man Johannes Voigtmann(12,5ppg, 6,0rpg, 2,5apg) had his break out year. When do you ever see a center be so high in assists as he was third on the team? In the Eurochallenge he cleaned up the Eurobasket awards as he was the top center in the competition averaging 16,0ppg, 7,2rpg and 1,8apg. He scored in double figures in 13 of 15 games and had five double doubles. His 26 points against Enisey Krasnoyarsk sealed the ticket to the Eurochallenge Final 4. Quantez Robertson(11,0ppg, 4,4rpg, 3,2apg) is playing his sixth professional season with Frankfurt and will be playing his third playoffs after reaching a final and semi early in his career. He was so often an extra point guard this season, best defender on the team and just does so much that isn´t seen on the stat sheet. Danilo Barthel(9,0ppg, 5,2rpg, 1,6apg) was having a productive season until he got injured in mid January which cost him two months to sit out. He was a solid performer in the Eurochallenge as well scoring in double figures in seven of nine games He was the teams best three point shooter at 42%. His return has been stalled a bit by more limited minutes as he is still finding his way back into a more developed rotation. The rotation is further aided by three strong role players in Jacob Burtschi(7,8ppg, 3,6rpg, 1,8apg) who came for the injured Barthel as is the ultimate warrior on the court that does everything from bringing leadership, Boris Becker diving qualities or nailing 10 three pointers in a game, Aaron Doornekamp(A6,8ppg, 4,1rpg, 1m5apg) has had an up and down season, but took on much responsibility the last few months bringing more support in the scoring department, but also being a force down low and Mike Morrison(7,1ppg, 3,3rpg) who is the bruiser down low and half his points this season are on dunks. He is an important presence in the paint especially on defense and is the perfect back up to Voigtmann. The club also has big man Johannes Richter that owned the Baaken Bears taking away their much beloved honey in both games leading the team to a big 74-64 win at home as he had 15 points. The team also brought back Max Merz who is taking a semester in Australia, but has a vacation break Kevin Bright, Mikko Koivisto and Stefan Ilzhoefer. FC Bayern Munich finished the season in third place as they had a record of 26-8 as they weren´t as dominating as last season as this season they had bitter and hard to believe loses against TBB Trier and BG Goettingen where they only mustered 59 points. They had a disappointing 2-8 record in the Euroleague and unsatisfying 5-3 record in Eurocup. Despite not having that dominant American point guard like in recent years with Tyrese Rice or Malcom Delaney their offense was their biggest strength as they scored 80 or more points 26 times and had NBA 100 plus type scores nine times including mastering 124 points against Phoenix Hagen.. They are also a strong defensive team when they want to be as they allowed 70 points or less 11 times, but then again allowing the Telekom Baskets Bonn get 107 points or BG Goettingen 95 points. FC Bayern Munich without a doubt have the deepest roster in the league and one would want almost each guy on your team as most would be starters on any other team in the league. The star of the team is John Bryant(13,5ppg, 7,9rpg) who played three seasons with ratiopharm Ulm and is the best center in the league as he is so difficult to stop, but the most valuable player on the team is Serb Nihad Djedovic(15,0ppg, 3,5rpg, 2,6apg) who is a high energy player that is so versatile that just does all on the court scoring in double figures in 19 of 24 games. After missing two months, he came back strong in April as if he had never been away. Head coach Svetislav Pesic has had his luck with picking the right Serb´s as Dusko Savanovic(11,6ppg, 4,6rpg, 2,1apg) was the hidden MVP as he is also a very mobile and versatile big man who is unselfish and belonged to the team´s best performers in the Euroleague. The guy with the biggest heart Bryce Taylor(9,5ppg, 3,1rpg, 1,3apg) was the team best three point shooter and as captain his team play was never missing. He came back slow from injury, but started going in February. Some just come and pay admission to see Anon Gavel(8,4ppg, 2,1rpg, 4,0apg) launch his line drive shots led the team in assists and can always haunt you with his bombs from outside. With Bryant taking a rest an opponent gets hit with the next bruiser with Vladimir Stimac(8,1ppg, 5,4rpg). There is nothing fancy about his game, but he gets the job done as Bonn witnessed as he poured in 19 points. The Serb connection continues with 2014 NBA draft pick of the Philadelphia 76ers with point guard Vasilije Misic87,6ppg, 2,1rpg, 3,7apg) who is like an energizer bunny and is just a pest to deal with from the bench. Just when you thought that that was the roster, you still have six Germans on the team. Heiko Schaffartzik(6,9ppg, 1,6rpg, 3,4apg) started only seven games, but was the teams second best three point shooter at 41% and can scare anyone with his focused look on the court at all times. Robin Benzing(6,5ppg, 2,2rpg, 1,3apg) is playing his fourth season in Munich, but his scoring stats have fallen the last three seasons. His scoring average obviously will suffer on a team like Munich, but he is always good for some unexpected big plays. Jan Jagla(5,3ppg, 2,8rpg)still going strong at 33 and is always effective in the minutes that he gets. Paul Zipser(4,9ppg, 2,4rpg) is a guy that needs to fight for his minutes, but showed what he can do scoring 20 against Tuebingen and 13 against Valencia in the Eurocup. Yassin Idbihi(3,5ppg, 2,0rpg) can always give support from the bench with points and rebounds, but this season is more a cheerleader. Most of the German basketball population will go with a 3-0 or 3-1 FC Bayern Munich win against the Fraport Skyliners so why am I doing the daring crazy 3-2 for the Fraport Skyliners? Well I love the underdog and just believe that the Fraport Skyliners have the ability to beat FC Bayern Munich even if it seems more unrealistic than anything in a five game series where the bench is the x factor. The question is how often can the Fraport Skyliners play consistent and strong for 40 minutes or near to it in a five game series against this Bavarian powerhouse? So far in the two games this season they showed up for only 30 minutes. They played a fierce first half in Munich early in the season leading 48-34 at halftime, but collapsed in the second half giving up a 14-0 run to start the third quarter losing 80-73 and in the return game stunk up the Fraport arena in the first 30 minutes being down 63-48 where there seemed to be no hope, but made a massive comeback in the fourth scoring 28 points and winning 76-73. FC Bayern Munich lead in almost every vital team statistical category this season scoring points 89-77, rebounds 38-34, field goal percentage 48-45, and turnovers 14-10, only with three point shooting does Franfurt have the edge 36%-35%. FC Bayern Munich also have the overwhelming bench edge. From the perspective of the Fraport Skyliners, in a series like this one can´t preach too much the statistical edge that the opponent has, but concentrate on the mental side and motivation something head coach Gordon Herbert can do. There is so much x and o´s in the game of basketball, but at the end of the day effort is a huge factor as Frankfurt showed in the fourth quarter of their last win. The other big factor will be playing up to their other strength of team basketball. They didn´t always show it this season, but principally Frankfurt is a team that focuses on team something that head coach Gordon Herbert has preached all season long. Sharing the ball making the extra pass on offense and on defense helping, helping and helping until the paint area looks worn out, clogging the lane and just trusting Quantez Robertson on the court with his leadership. FC Bayern Munich obviously has the experience factor and with Frankfurt the youth of Cobbs and Armand might just not be ready to make heroic after heroic feat as the first seems to have reached his limit as a rookie as his consistency has been lacking in the last weeks as fatigue and scouting from the opponent have caught up with him. The leadership and on court play of Aaron Doornekamp and Jacob Burtschi will be key for the younger players as they play their first BBL playoffs and will be as motivated as a Tez is every game. Of course FC Bayern Munich will remember their disaster from their last game in Frankfurt. The Fraport Skyliners need to steal game one in order to make this a long series. It is no secret that the Fraport Skyliners are an annoying team that won´t be a desired opponent for many teams and despite Gordon Herbert saying recently, he hasn´t seen the team develop since a late March training camp in Mallorca, it is May now, it’s playoff time and the season really starts now. Reaching the Eurochallenge final 4 may have been a big achievement this season, but the Fraport Skyliners won´t go out without a big fight against FC Bayern Munich and also need some unexpected help from their opponent not always playing up to their standards. This prediction may feel absurd for all, but Gordon Herbert has built a special squad this season and one thing is for sure, if there are any Skyliner fans that catch Gordon Herbert after game five in Munich approaching the team bus at the end having missed the game because of having lost track of time in a local Brauhaus, at least they won´t be disappointed at first glance of the Canadian, because win or lose with his usual expressionless look one can still dream at that moment that the most unlikely still did happen until the bitter truth is most probably revealed.

Kai King is a 29 year old 182cm point guard from Rialto, California that just completed the season with Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). He started his basketball career in 2005 with the Venice basketball league and played a few seasons with the Riverside Rainmakers (ABA). He then went to Africa in 2011 and played two seasons with Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1). In the 2012-2013 season he played for Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1)15.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.0spg, then moved to ART Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) 10 games: 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. IN the 2013-2014 season he played for the Bobcats Basketball Club (Mexico-Oaxaca, starting five): 25.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. He recently spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Kai thanks for talking to German Hoops. The first thing I notice is your name which is a German name, but you are American. How did you get this name?

My mother gave me the name, but actually she chose the name for its Asian meaning and not its German one. Kai is not only a popular name in Germany, but it is also popular in Asia, Finland, it also has roots in Greece, Basque country in Spain, Cornish, Estonian Scottish, to name a few there are lots of different origins for my name not only in Germany.

You are playing currently in Germany for Oberliga team Marlor BC that has aspirations of moving up to the German Regionaliga. How did it come about that you landed here? You played for RT Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) two seasons ago.

I was on the arts team, but had issues and had to return home.  Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to lace it up like I had originally hoped. I landed the Oberliga job because the team in Kosovo was not doing what they had initially specified.  I was playing for BKP Kastrioti but things didn’t work out as I had planned, so I came to Germany to play in the Oberliga after things fell through in Kosovo.

The team is currently in second place. How good are the chances of the club moving up to the German Regionaliga 2?

Our chances are very high, we have an opportunity to truly make some noise and move up into the Regionalliga 2 ranks. We just have to finish this second half of the season.  Injuries to key players have slowed us down a bit, but we are all now healthy.  We have a new addition to the team Chris Randolph ( D2 Washington Adventist ), he should help our team out a great deal with his defense, leadership and scoring. If we can continue to be healthy, keep our eyes on the prize and stay focused then I think Regionalliga 2 will be an obtainable task.

How do you handle your ego on a daily basis when you have to play in the Oberliga and can´t display your talent at a higher level?

Its a opportunity, a blessing.  No matter what league it is, what country it is.  I am blessed to get an opportunity to put my shoes on, put my jersey on and play the game that I love. Yes I think I have the talents to play on a higher level, I have the confidence in myself and the aspirations to play. If God wants it to happen it will.  Right now I am enjoying Marler.  I am enjoying being around my teammates and seeing the sights and sounds that Germany has to offer. My ego is fine, and I know that this opportunity can easily be taken from me at any time. I am happy and will continue to process no matter what country I am in.

Your teammate is American Dennis Mims who has played in Italy and for top Turkish team Besiktas Istanbul. Why does a 34 year old still need to play basketball for a sixth division German team? I can imagine it can´t be for any other reason than just total love of the game?

If you love something you’ll do your best no matter what.  I will continue loving it and enjoying it. Dennis, Chris and myself aren’t the same age, but we have a drive and passion for this game. Yes he is 34 but he is still athletic, still driven and motivated and despite him being long in the tooth he still can lace it up with anyone.  Age is not a problem. Its truly a blessing to play with a player of his stature and caliber. I learn something new from him each time I play with him and each time I sit down to talk with him. He has a love for the game, a passion for basketball, and he is also here furthering his education.  I look to him for a number of things.  He is a mentor on and off the court and I am thankful for guys like that whom can help out guys like myself.

You are a scoring point guard, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

My toughness, I think its something that is unnoticed especially coming from California. The misconception is that guys from Cali are soft, that we wear sandals all day, that we surf, that we ride skateboards.  That our play on the court is just like the weather nice, manageable, easy going. That is a huge misconception, there is a dog in me.  Ill mix it up with anyone, I’ll run through a wall, I’ll get dirty and do whatever is necessary of course. As long if its in the confines of the rules. I am tough, yes I am from Cali, yes we have nice weather, yes there is a Hollywood sign and movies stars all around. However I am tough.   Ill guard a center, Ill guard a power forward, Ill do whatever I have to win.

You are 29 year old and in your prime. What goals do you still have as a basketball player?

I want to continue playing ball.  I want to continue helping teams win, continue helping players develop and grow as players and also as people. My team requires that we give back to the community, so on certain days, we will coach the kids and help them develop as players and as people. I want to continue climbing through the ranks and showing people that I can indeed play, but I also want to help others and motivate them through this game of basketball. I have many goals and aspirations on and off the court, this game has brought me a lot of things and I am grateful for it. 

Marl is about 30 kilometers away from Recklinghausen who have a Pro B team. Do you ever catch any of their games. How confident are you that you could keep up with these guys or even players in higher leagues in Germany?

Yes of course, I saw them play last week.  I have also seen the ETB Essen team play and also the Hertern Lions and they are all great players in their own right. I am just confident in myself and the abilities that God has given me. I can keep up with them.  I just need a chance, an opportunity to show them that I can indeed meet the challenge. Mexico was wonderful.  Mexico was a beautiful country and the people are passionate about their sports. The problem is that unless you are in America, Europe, Australia, China.  Then you will always have contract issues and disputes.  Problems with management arise because they are not Fiba certified leagues. I was 

Last season you played for Bobcats Basketball Club (Mexico-Oaxaca) What kind of experience was that for you? Besides having the contract issues how was your stay there on and off the court?

I was excited to get another opportunity to play in a Fiba sanctioned league where I do not have to worry about the league going under.  Mexico was great, the weather was like California, the basketball and the fans were an absolute pleasure.  However the uncertainty and inconsistencies of the league was what presented issues for me and my family. If those issues were okay then yes I would have loved staying there.

Two years ago you played for ART Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) playing 10 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. After having a strong season in the German Regionaliga 2 did you expect some offers from Regionaliga or PRO B teams?

 

I wasn’t there the whole time.  I got a few games under my belt but had to leave for personal reasons. For the time I was in effect there.  It was great playing in Europe.  Playing for a pro team, playing against guys who in their own right have talents and can hold their own was great. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to stay there the entire time and had to go back to the United States. Hopefully a full season in Oberliga will garner some attention from other teams next season. However I am focused on Marler BC.  I am focused on helping them accomplish reaching Regional 2. If we do what we have to do on the court then it will be wonderful.  I like the coach, the players. We have a family here.  Thats what we preach before games, Marler BC, were family here.  Cliche I know but I’m comfortable where I am and leaving would not sit well with me one bit.

How much fun was it playing for head coach Robert Shepherd who like you was a point guard as a player and played at Arkansas(NCAA). What could you pick up from him on and off the court?

It was an absolute pleasure, I enjoyed every minute that was given to me. And even though it was short lived, playing for him was an absolute dream. What he sees, how he approaches the game, what he thinks and how he prepared us as a team spoke volumes. It was evident to me the very first day I was there when I spoke with him. He is definitely a first rate coach and a first rate individual. It was an absolute pleasure being there and I learned a number of things from him. How to be a pro, how to prepare myself both on and off the court. How to keep things in the proper perspective and mind frame.  As players we can get caught up in the wrong things. Feel that we should be treated a certain way and that often plays on our minds in decisions we make and decisions we don’t. He just showed me that this is a unique opportunity, that its a blessing and that in any moment it can be taken away. I owe him for that, I speak with him regularly and we remain friends to this day. I learned a lot from him and he is a great guy.

You played two seasons for Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1). What kind of experience was this? Sometimes players will stay many years in one country. Was this not an option for you since you would have been able to keep playing and be paid without having to worry about finding a new team?

Its a unique experience, people back home were a bit apprehensive towards the idea of me going to play basketball in Africa. I wont lie, even I was a little reticent on going myself. But I had a talk with my family and friends and also the man above and decided that this was a good thing for me. And that no matter what I wouldn’t be given a situation I couldn’t handle. Sure enough it was all love when I arrived, the people welcomed me with open arms. The league was very tough and competitive, having both great players from the African countries, Senegal, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Gabon, The Congo to name a few. There were also people there from the United States and also from Spain.  Since Equatorial Guinea was once a colony of Spain. It was a unique experience, unfortunately I was unable to return because the team had financial issues and couldn’t keep the Six Stars team going. I would have loved to play there.  Love to have seen my friends that I met in my time there, but unfortunately money issues with the team didn’t allow me that opportunity again.

You had a workout at the Bakersfield Jam Free Agent (NBA Camp Tryout): 10ppg, 5rpg, 4apg, 2spg, FGP: 45%, 3Pts: 38%, FT: 80%. This was the perfect stage for you to showcase your abilities. Did you ever get any interest from D-league teams?

Yes I actually did, but I always has dreams and aspirations to play abroad.  I did fairly well at the tryout and was told that I could play in the D League if I focused and devoted myself to the process of being a D League Pro. That was all I needed to hear.  Hearing that fueled my fire, and gave me the confidence that I needed to play overseas. It was from that tryout that I realized that I could play with just about anybody in the world. That D League tryout changed my life in many ways and it was the starting point.  The spring board that has gotten me where I am today. I am thankful that I drove four hours from my home, no sleep, getting right out of work to make the trip. If I hadn’t done that, who knows where I would be. I certainly wouldn’t have been playing basketball thats for sure.

You were a Venice Basketball Pro Am League Champion in 07, 08, 09, 10, 11. Which title was your sweetest?

Each one of them is sweet, each one is unique and different.  Its just a honor to play with guys that you grew up with. Also with guys in the area that you emulated and idolized. It was great going out there, and I had fun each and every time I went out there. So its really hard to narrow it down to just one title.  Each was sweet, each was unique, each was significant and important in their own way.

Could you ever imagine making a living in Europe after your playing days or will you go home again?

Absolutely, during the break here, I was able to travel to Italy. Yes you read it right Italy!  I was able to visit Venice, Rome and a nice beach city known as Porto San Giorgio. It was amazing to see Venice and the Gondolas.  To see all the beautiful churches and architecture in the city. Then to travel to Rome and see the Coliseum, the Vatican, and all of the many beautiful sights and sounds of Roma. To eat the pizza, to taste the Gelato, man it was an amazing trip. So when you ask this question, could I make a living in Europe I say. Absolutely!

What have you learned to appreciate the most in Germany since you have been here?

I appreciate the game of basketball, I appreciate friendship and family, because, when you are out here by yourself. You build bonds with people that may last for the rest of your life. I have learned to appreciate where basketball has taken me and I’ve learned that family and friends make it all the more while

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was Despicable me 2.

Thanks Kai for the chat.