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It Is Great To See That One Of The Pro B´s Big Identity Figures With DJ Woodmore Will Be Back With Speyer For A 9th Season

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-1992, college: VWU) is a 33 year old 190cm point guard that completed 10th professional season and 8th with the Ahorn Camp Bis Baskets Speyer averaging 16,8ppg, 4,9rpg, 3,5apg and 1,3spg. Last season with Speyer he averaged 17.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 4.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 82.9% and 2 seasons ago averaged 16.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 86.6%. Three seasons ago he averaged 15.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.0%. In the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6%. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 10th pro season and 8th with Speyer.

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com. A tough sweep by the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Despite the sweep how proud are you of your team for reaching the playoffs again and for the first time the second round?

Extremely proud of this team. Bad luck that we ran into arguably the best Pro B team of all time. But I’m glad we were able to make it as far as we did.

Speyer reached the playoffs now for the fourth straight year. Is this a run a good reason for you to come back for a new season to keep this playoff appearance going?

I was going to come back regardless. Speyer is honestly hope now. The playoff streak is a bonus and shows that the organization is steady growing and staying consistent with that growth.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen were the big favorite going in. What was the series game plan and how much of it could the team do?

There was no game plan to be honest. We knew it was going to be tough. We were down a few key guys. We just wanted to go out there and compete. Try to make it tough for their guards, but Heinzmann put a stop to all of that.

Game 2 was pretty much already decided at the break. Did you just try to have some fun in the last half at home for the fans even if your shot wasn´t falling?

That’s all there was left to do. I had a good time watching some of the younger guys get in the action. Hopefully we gain some experience from it and can get back next year as well.

2 categories that were very apparent in both games was the rebounding advantage and 2% from Leverkusen.Are these 2 things that did in Speyer the most?

Yes basically. Heinzmann didn’t miss many shots. And they’re disciplined on offense. They won’t force anything that isn’t there.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen are on a mission. They have only lost 1 game this season. Are they one of the best or the best team you ever saw in the Pro B in your career?

Easily the best. They had no holes in the team. 2 good players at every position. Bringing a 7 footer off the bench just shows how stacked they are.

There were 8 sweeps early from north teams over south teams. Is the North that much better?

No.

Another great season from the BIS Baskets Speyer. The fourth year in a row reaching the playoffs. Does the club need 1 more lethal scorer more to be able to make a run in the playoffs?

I don´t think it’s about needing a scorer. I just think we need to find a way to stay healthy going into the post season. Being down 3 key players when it matters most will affect any team. Just look at Iserlohn.

What was so special about this years Speyer team that made it so nice to watch besides the team chemistry?

Just a team that bounced back from adversity time and time again. We lost Carlos and guys stepped up. Lost Latrell and guys stepped up. Guys this season had heart. And I think the experienced guys took a lot in their shoulders and came through.

For guys like Djordevic, Rupp, Diala and Hidalgo, it was the second season in Speyer. It would be so vital for them to remain to keep the great team chemistry intact. Do you see a good chance of that happening?

I see a couple of those guys coming back. But not all of them. I would like to run it back with the same team, but we know that’s not show ports work. I’m curious to see what the roster looks like next season. But I can imagine it looks very different.

How vital was defensive specialist Latrell Grosskopf for the success of the team especially on the defensive end this season?

He was really vital. He had to play out of position this season. And he worked his tail off to be a factor at the center position. Especially towards the end of the season.

Was perhaps Benjamin Hoehmann the most improved player on the squad? He averaged 8/3 after playing 3 years in the 2 Regionalliga?

Benny did a good job for us. Would have liked to see him out there the second half of the season. Injuries really hurt his progress.

How key was new Austrian guard Felix Angerbauer in the second half of the season. He gave the team added scoring and playmaking punch at the guard position.

Felix was great for coming in and giving us exactly what we needed. At times this year our offense struggled. But he helped relieve some of that pressure off myself and keep the defenses honest because of his shooting ability. Great pick up for us and hope to see him again next season.

You had another great personal season of 17/5/3/1 and shot 43% from outside. How content ere you with your season at age 33?

Really content with how things went this year individually. Felt like I took some steps in my game. Hoping keep improving next year as well.

Your stats were similar to last season. Does the game really get easier with more experience?

Honestly it does. I think I’m really good at knowing which shots I can take and make consistently. And I focus on those.

You have shot 40% or better form outside in 4 of the last 6 seasons. Would you call your three pointer your biggest weapon on the court now?

I would actually say the midrange is the biggest weapon. I don’t like shooting the 3 as much as the pull up. But being able to shoot it at a high percentage, makes it easier to get to my spots.

Does your good three point shooting of the last years strive you to want to shoot even better down the road? Would added shooting and less conditioning be the route as you keep getting older?

I think the older you get, the more conditioning you need. Just to stay ready. I’m always going to get enough shooting in.

I can imagine your 40 points against Wurzburg was your most memorable game, but what was your second most memorable?

Honestly the 40 was probably the second most memorable. I think the away game against Iserlohn was my favorite game to play this season. Packed arena, season on the line, buzzer beater to send it to OT. That was easily my favorite.

Your ex teammate Kelvin Omojola surprisingly announced his retirement yesterday. What memories do you have of him?

Kelvin is one of the bets teammates that I ever played with and is still one of my closest friends. The league immediately felt his impact when he arrived. I wish that we would have had the chance to play a few more years together. He was and still is a crazy competitor. I´m sure everyone will feel his impact on whatever his next journey brings.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

OKC should win it all. But I’d like to see someone in the east make some noise

Is Nikola Jokic the MVP or will Shai Gillgeous-Alexander get it?

Shai will get it. But I think Jokic is going to struggle with voters fatigue like LeBron did.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola Was Half Way To Koblenz But Instead Retires For A New No Brainer Opportunity In Las Vegas

Sometimes beautiful things just come to an end. For 2 seasons, Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) was my Quantez Robertson. For 14 seasons, my favorite and most asked interview partner with the Frankfurt Skyliners was Quantez Robertson. I´m the kind of guy that seeks a guy with whom I feel comfortable with and where I know, I will get good answers from for my articles. Quantez Robertson was that guy during his Frankfurt career whom I would pester after almost every game as well as calling him during the season on different occasions to get good basketball answers for my work. In 2023 he retired after 14 seasons and he achieved 68 eurobasket/germanhoops titles from me not to mention countless quotes after games in my articles. Tez and my interview relationship ended, but that fall a new one was invented with Kelvin Omojola and me. We hit it off pretty quickly and I began to interview almost always after every home game. He not only was charismatic and always smiling, but he gave incredible answers that always helped let my articles shine. In his 2 seasons with the Dragons Rhondorf, he made 14 titles for Eurobasket and German Hoops. Unfortunately our interview sessions have come to an end. I was hoping that they would possibly continue in Koblenz, but he was half way to Koblenz when instead he decided to retire for a new no brainer opportunity in Las Vegas. “I 1000% would have went with Coach Stephan & Coach KJ to Koblenz but I was able to earn a Graduate Assistant position at UNLV! A full scholarship to get my Master’s Degree, with employment working with UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute. It’s an amazing opportunity and even though I had more than a few years left in me, it’s a great transition for my next career after basketball”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It would have been amazing to see the ex Rhondorf trio of Dohrn, Sherril and Omojola in Koblenz and who knows, they may also have been joined by Badu Buck. “That would have been Amazing Miles. Our championship season was special, we had a great group of guys who were not only high level players, but great characters on and off the court. And if I was going, Badu would have no choice but to come along as well. He knows that!! I love Badu haha, one of my favorite teammates ever”, stated Kelvin Omojola.

After 4 professional seasons, the pro career of Kelvin Omojola who lists Branden Maughmer (He was my matchup and that’s how I determine the toughest player. We played him first round in the playoffs in 2024, and he was cooking! He could shoot, great handle, get to his spots, play defense and get his teammates involved. He didn’t just jack up shots or hold the ball the whole game either, he was playing great basketball) as his toughest Pro B opponent has ended as he will pursue new interesting goals in his home town of Las Vegas. He received only 1 of 2 scholarships for his masters degree at the University Of Nevada Las Vegas. This was something that didn´t suddenly matriculate, but something he had been thinking about for a longer time. “I’m always trying to think ahead and plan my next steps. I’ve been that way for years, I wanted to give myself an opportunity to set my next career up after basketball. I didn’t want to finish playing and not have a plan, so I pursued the route of me going back to school and getting my Master’s. I would have started to get my Master’s Degree regardless this upcoming Fall. So if I was still playing, I would have started my Master’s Degree in Germany. But to get this opportunity, especially at a big school like UNLV, it was an easy decision Miles”, said Kelvin Omojola. He is more than blessed that he can go back to school and be at home. “It doesn’t get any better than that Miles. I haven’t lived in Vegas full time since 2018 so to be back now it’s a blessing. I’ll be doing a little bit of work already starting in June, but the work will officially start in August. I’ll be getting my Master’s in Intercollegiate & Professional Sport Management. I’ve always had a passion for sports and there are so many elements that go into having a successful sports program. I was first exposed to those elements when I was at UNLV for me – As for my role with UNLV’s Sports Innovation Institute, yes it’ll be a Marketing & Operations position”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He is also very fortunate that he will also be involved not only with the UNLV basketball program, but also other teams. “The UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute works with all of the teams at UNLV & all of the Professional Sports teams here. The Raiders, the Aces, UFC, Golden Knights, you name it. The capacity of the work that it would consist of wouldn’t be coaching however”, added Kelvin Omojola.

The 28 year old guard who played like a mix of Steph Curry and Kyle Lowery and lists the following just off the top of his head as his best teammates of all-time with DJ Woodmore, Ben Shungu, Avery Sullivan, Badu Buck, Lorenzo Cugini, Bazou Kone, Ferenc Gille, Dom Von Waaden, Marko Rosic, Tyreese Blunt, and Darian Cardenas was fortunate to have played all 4 pro seasons in Germany and it was obvious that Deutschland became like a second home for him. “As you know, my mom is from Munich. So being able to be here in Germany for the past 4 years, I felt at home. It was a great 4 years that really flew by. Who knows, maybe in the future I’ll be back here in Germany working as a GM for a club”, smiled Kelvin Omojola. He played his rookie season with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He will never forget head coach Carl Mbassa who gave him his fist pro job. “I’m beyond thankful for Coach Carl. He’s such a great person and a great coach. He let me grow as a player and didn’t handcuff me at all. He allowed me to play through mistakes and always told me to be aggressive. Whenever I took a bad shot, he never said anything to me. He wanted me to remain confident, aggressive, and that helped me so much as a player from a skill aspect and a mental aspect”, warned Kelvin Omojola. He was also so fortunate to have a veteran like DJ Woodmore showing him the ropes and more. The advice that he got from him was priceless. “DJ Woodmore took me under his wing and I learned so much from him. I really do view him as a brother. He’s a TRUE professional, beyond skilled on the basketball court, and he taught me a lot off the court as well. I’m beyond grateful that he was my vet, he taught me so much and our relationship is still strong to this day. I love DJ and he knows that”, said Kelvin Omojola. He played his first playoff series against Wedel and his future head coach Stephan Dohrn and had to suffer a tough 1 point loss in game 3 to end his season. “We had that series! Coach Stephan knows that too! That series hurt because we knew we could beat Wedel and we should have. Marc Liyanage could only play home games at that point of the season so not having him on the road hurt us a lot. He gave us that veteran presence; With his skill set and basketball IQ, not having him in games 1 & 3 hurt us a lot”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He had his 2 best Pro B scoring games as a rookie against Frankfurt and always enjoyed battling against them. “Frankfurt would always be special. Ofcourse having my best 2 scoring games helps haha, but it was always fun playing Frankfurt. Literally every single game I’ve played against them in my career was a great game that came down to the wire. This season, being able to beat them at their house for the only time in my career was great. It’s tough to play there and they always play well at home”, explained Kelvin Omojola.

In his second pro season, the 3 level scorer moved up a level to the Pro A and laced them up for PS Karlsruhe. He only averaged 3,1ppg in 12 minutes of action. “It was tough Miles, because for the first half of the season, I was averaging over 8 points a game. Which is solid, especially for my first year in ProA. But we weren’t winning games, so when the team brought in Ben from Ludwigsburg, my minutes got cut substantially. Going from playing solid minutes to getting 30 seconds – 4 minutes a game is tough. It also destroys your averages. But, it’s a part of the game and I learned a lot that season. I had great teammates and learned how to compete at a high level, which helped when I went to the Dragons the next season”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It didn´t help his minutes that he had 3 talented guards also striving for minutes with Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone as he was the odd man out, but that also had other advantages. “Yes, that was the case Miles. But that backcourt of Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone was elite. Every day in practice was a BATTLE. I got so much better competing against them, they’re all so skilled and they all had different play styles. Defending Baz would be different than guarding Ben. I had to be locked in every practice, every day. But it was a blessing”, remembered Kelvin Omojola. Despite not playing much that season, he has fond memories and has a favorite game and had a few tough opponents. “When we played Tübingen at home. It was my best game of the year, super efficient game with 12 points and we beat them which was most important. I always say this Miles, it would be Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone. Defending and competing against those guys challenged me and grew my game. It helped me become a stronger player and develop mental toughness”, explained Kelvin Omojola. That PS Karlsruhe won the pro A title the next season didn´t surprise him at all with head coach Alexsandar Scepanovic. “ He’s a great coach. We went to the semifinals when I was there. So the next year, him winning the championship wasn’t a surprise. His schemes, especially defensively are the best I’ve ever seen”, warned Kelvin Omojola.

He played his last 2 seasons with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. I would of guessed that these last 2 seasons there were his 2 favorite, but they weren´t. “ I would say the championship season and my first season with Speyer were my favorite 2 seasons as a professional Miles! The championship year is a no brainer, and my first year with Speyer I was surrounded by GREAT vets and great guys. They made my transition into playing pro basketball effortless and every day was a joy to be there”. Said Kelvin Omojola. In his first season he helped the Dragons Rhondorf win the Pro B title averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. “ We were so talented and our chemistry was unmatched. As talented as we were, we were in multiple situations throughout the playoffs where we easily could have folded and lost. But we stuck together, no matter if we won or lost. And if we lost, we took it personal to make sure we didn’t lose again. We were fixated on winning a championship and knew we wouldn’t be denied. We played so many great teams in the playoffs, we easily could have lost. But we always made the adjustments and brought the correct energy/focus to the next game to make sure we didn’t lose again”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He was more than fortunate to share the back court with Tyrese Blunt and Badu Buck. “We were the best backcourt in the league! Yeah they were great Miles, we all complimented each other’s game perfectly and brought the most out of each other. We all competed at a high level and never took it easy on each other”, said Kelvin Omojola. He had a great relationship with Marko Rosic and and won´t forget the deadly mid range game of 2024 U-18 Euro winner Janne Muller. “I love Marko, he’s such a great guy and a great player. I tried to let him know that anytime I could. My favorite moment with him haha, Marko is a funny guy! Most people don’t know that. I’d say the Mario Kart moments we had. It was Marko, myself, Badu, KJ, and Avery. Those moments were priceless and we still have a group chat going to this day. Janne is another great player. Seriously, he’s so good and the sky is the limit for him. He’ll continue to get better every year and I told him don’t forget about me when he’s at the top haha. But yes his mid range game is elite as well as his finishing around the basket. Such a crafty player and beyond skilled for his age”, added Kelvin Omojola.

It is a no brainer what Kelvin Omojola´s favorite game as a Dragon Rhondorf player was. “My personal favorite would have to be the championship game vs. Köln. It has to be Miles! If we win this game, we win the championship. So with the game being the highest pressure game I’ve ever been a part of, to go out there and have 20 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and to get the win? It’s a no brainer”, said Kelvin Omojola. He also knows that the team success and his stellar play wouldn´t have been as good without the diehard support of the Dragon faithful. “That they showed up and supported us every single game was so important! Not only at home, but on the road as well! It gives you an appreciation when the fans are traveling 3+ hours to road games to support you. It REALLY puts it in perspective when you get blown out on the road, the fans traveled to the game, and it feels like you let them down. I love the Dragons fans and they’ll always be special to me”, warned Kelvin Omojola. 4 years wasn´t a long career, but he will be filled with memories for the rest of his life as will his fans. He hopes that the fans will have him in the best of memories as well. “I would say as someone who played hard and never cheated them. I always tried to show the fans the same love and appreciation that they showed me. I always put in the work, I practiced hard every single practice, I never took days off, I was always invested in the team and wanted to win no matter what. I hope they could see that and remember that”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. I will always remember Kelvin Omojola as a player who always gave his best on the court and was a top 3 point guard in the Pro B. He was always professional and a great character and was just a joy to be around. “Thank you Miles for not everything you’ve done for me, but for the all coverage you provide to Germany basketball! I appreciate you, and I’m glad we could speak at least once more”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Of course Kelvin we will do another interview about your new career. I wouldn´t want it any other way.

Forest Whittaker Didn´t Really Fly into Games But Ivan Kharchenkov Did Helping FC Bayern Munich Win The 2025 NBBL Title

pic credit: helloitsjana

The iconic and groundbreaking 80´s teenage movie Fast Times At Ridgemont High has so many incredible and funny scenes that one has a real difficult time choosing a favorite one. If It´s Mr Hand played by Ray Walston, or Jeff Spicoli played by Sean Penn or Brad Hamilton played by Judge Reinhold, there is a hilarious scene for everybody. Ivan Kharchenko has about as much to do with this movie as Shaq does with winning a weight loss contest, but his situation recently reminded me of a funny scene in the movie involving Oscar winner Forest Whittaker. In the scene, Charles Jefferson played by Forest Whittaker who is the school´s top football player wants to buy some concert tickets to see Earth Wind And Fire. After he does, there is a little boy who was standing next to him that proclaims “Wow does he really live here, I thought he just flew in for games”. That line reminded me of Ivan Kharchenkov (198-SG-2006)´s Sunday May 19th day as he flew from Munich to Berlin just to play in the NBBL final. “This was very special to be able to do. It really did feel like a dream”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Forest Whittaker didn´t really just fly in to play games, but Ivan Kharchenkov did.

The big speculation on Saturday at the NBBL top 4 was, would Ivan Khrachenkov play or not. Game 1 of the easyCredit BBL playoffs between FC Bayern Munich and MBC was also being played on that day and every wondered would Ivan get the nod from Gordon Herbert to help his NBBL (U-19) team. Herbert chose to keep him in Munich. Munich didn´t play their best basketball against Rasta Academy as they had to go into overtime to win to reach the NBBL final. Ivan had logged only 3 minutes in the game 1 win which was played a little bit earlier than the NBBL semi final. “I was able to watch the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter and saw the overtime. I was pretty confident they would win. I mean I knew that my teammates knew that if they didn´t give 100%, then there would be no tomorrow. I was happy when Ivan Volf hit the big three pointer to take the lead. I have been playing with him since the U-14 team. He works so hard on his shot and it paid off”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. With FC Bayern Munich now in the final, the question was could he play this time.? The whole procedure of could he play or not was something that the famous club thought very carefully about. “The club told me when they changed the BBL game to Saturday that I could not play the semi-final in Berlin. They also told me that Sunday would be a no go since we had game 2 on Tuesday in Weissenfels. So I went into game 1 against MBC knowing I wouldn´t play in Berlin. However after the game 1 win, I was on my way out of the arena and the sport director approached me and told me they were thinking of allowing me to go to Berlin for the final. They asked me if I still wanted to go. I was like of course I want to go. I have been wanting to go since yesterday. So I was up at 6:00am Sunday and took a flight to Berlin at 9am”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov. The question was would he be accepted by his teammates flying in to only play the final. German basketball legend Steffen Hamann was 100% sure it would be no problem. “I believe my teammates had no problem with me flying in. They knew that I wanted to play the final. They knew that It wasn´t my decision that I couldn´t play the semi-final, but that it was political. They were happy that I could play”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov.

pic credit: Helloitsjana

The final was at 4:30 and I already knew at 3.00 pm that he would play, because his mother had told me that he would play. The FC Bayern Munich players came on the court for warmups and there was Ivan Kharchenko ready for battle against ratiopharm Ulm. Was ratiopharm Ulm possibly intimidated that he was suddenly there for the final? “I mean could be, but I´m not sure. If a guy comes back, then that could be an extra factor. I think they kind of had an idea that I would come back”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best game against Rasta Academy, but there was no doubt in his mind that his team would come to take care of business in the final. “When I knew that I was cleared to play the final, there was never a doubt in my mind that we would lose. I just knew that we had to work hard. Plus coach Perego had prepared us well to be mentally tough. He was always telling us that we would dominate coming into the Top 4 and just kept saying it over and over. That domination became our mindset. The final was our time to dominate”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. Just like against Rasta Academy, FC Bayern Munich came out slow against ratiopharm Ulm and Kharchenkov was 0/4 in the first quarter. “For me it was tough coming into a totally different role than what I have with the BBL team. But I did remain aggressive and when shots didn´t fall, I tried to bring defensive energy and got some stops. I just tried to lead by example”, explained Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern fought back and it would remain a tight affair going into the fourth quarter. However FC Bayern Munich took care of business to begin the last frame with a 14-2 run which decided the game. “I don´t know if that phase was some of our best defense this season, because we had so many different guys playing at different times this season. But I felt like we defended at a high level and had little mistakes. We also secured the defensive rebound. All in all, it was a solid effort”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. The team didn´t only get a stellar scoring game from Dominik Dolic, but got exceptional scoring help from Sermpezis and Kodjo who combined for 24 points. “They are both good defenders and were aggressive on the ball. They were the perfect filler spot. Every team needs guys like that. I really liked Killian Duck who played a great game, but really it was the whole team that contributed to the title”, said Ivan Kharchenkov.

pic credit: helloitsjana

Then when the buzzer finally sounded, a big weight was released off the shoulders of the FC Bayern Munich players. Ivan Kharchenkov who believes that the Oklahoma Thunder will meet the Indiana Pacers in the NBA final and win it had finally won the NBBL title something he had been striving to do for years. Was that feeling like having a birthday and Christmas all in one? “A birthday and Christmas happen once a year and winning the NBBL title doesn´t. It was really very very special for me. Even if it wasn´t deserved so much on my part, because I only played 2 games, I´m just very thankful that I could be a part of this. I´m just really thrilled for my teammates. They supported me a lot during the season and I just tried to help them in the final”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. Playing in the final and winning it will surely be a moment he will tell his grand children one day. “My favorite play of the game for myself was probably the mid range shots that I made or making free throws. Free throws are always good. I will never forget being able to celebrate with my teammates, mom and fans”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. The question now is was this NBBL final game the last time that Ivan Kharchenkov, Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic were on the court as teammates? “ I fear it was. They will probably go their own ways. But I would love to play with them again”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. But if not as teammates then as opponents. “It was always nice to see them at Euro events the last years. Even there we would chill together. It is always nice to have that home level with them as teammates or opponents”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Who knows, but they might meet this summer again at youth tournaments. But before that moment comes, Ivan Kharchenkov is focusing on winning a second title within a month as he strives for his second BBL title.

Ike Smith Wants To Be The Best Defender In Every League He Plays In

Ike Smith (193-G-1997, college: Georgia South) is a 27 year old 193cm guard from Gainesville, Florida that completed his fifth professional season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL) averaging 12,8ppg, 4,4rpg, 3,2apg and. Last season he played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. He played with Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga) from 2021-2023 avergaing 21.5ppg), 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in his second season avergaed 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. He began his basketball career at / Gainesville High School. And then played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 playing a total of 133 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Ike for talking to germanhoops.com. You keep moving up leagues after paying your dues in Finland. How has the grind been for you? What has kept your energy going to keep moving up the basketball ladder?

The grind has been great. I enjoy coming to work everyday and getting better. The goal for me is to play at the highest level in Europe so that’s my motivation on moving up the ladder

You played your fifth pro season and first with Gornik Zamek Ksiaz Walbrzych (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

Playing in the OBL has been a learning experience but fun. I struggled earlier on due to some injuries but now I feel like I’m in great rhythm

The club was holding it´s own fighting for the #1 position. What has been the secret to the success?

The secret to success for us has been our work ethic everyday. We get after one another everyday in practice. It’s very competitive

You recently won your first chip with the Polish Cup. What was the finest memory of that run?

The best memory would have to be Toddrick´s game winning shot! Those are the moments you dream about

The team has a lethal trio of Alterique Gilbert, Todderick Gotcher and yourself. What have you appreciated most about their games?

I appreciate the most their intensity. They always get us off to a good start to games with their energy

Last season you played in the Italian Serie 2. This season your playing in another top league in Poland. How would you compare the 2 leagues. Many have said that the Italian league is one of the best 2 leagues in Europe. Which would you say is best in competitiveness and skill level of the players?

I agree that the Italian league is one of the best 2nd leagues in Europe. Both leagues are very physical. I would have to say that the competitiveness and skill level was higher in Italy

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

That’s tough, but I’ve gotten some Demar Derozan comparisons. He uses a lot of different footwork techniques to score at a high level & I do the same.

You’re a player that fill the stat sheet very well. How big is your versatility in your game?

I think my versatility is the best thing about my game. I have the ability to score in many different ways. I could also defend multiple positions

You shot 39% in the NCAA and 35% in Italy. What do you have to still do to reach the 40% plateau?

I believe work ethic & confidence will help me to reach the 40% plateau

How would you describe your defensive game now in your fifth season? To what stage do you still want to reach to make the next level as a defender?

I think I underestimate how great I could be on the defensive end. I have the size, length & strength to be a great defender. I want to be one of the best defenders in every league that I play in

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can continue to improve your game?

Free throws are the weakest part of my game. I leave so many points out there not converting my free throws.

Last season you played with Elachem Vigevano 1955 (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 58.1%. It wasn´t a great season, but you were consistent with your play. What did you learn from this season and how did your game grow?

Playing in Vigevano I was one of the primary ball handlers. I learned a lot from playing pick & roll seeing so many different coverages

You played 2 seasons with at Pyrinto Tampere (Finland-Korisliiga)n averaging 21.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 73.8% and in your second season averaged 19.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 70.6%. How vital were these 2 seasons in your basketball development overseas? How did your game grow?

The 2 seasons in Tampere were important for me. It was an introduction to the European style of basketball

How key was guard David Gonzalvez in your rookie season? Was he like a mentor for you?

David was great. He always filled me with confidence. Everyday we were in the gym playing 1 on 1 just sharpening our game. We also worked on a lot of moves in the post

In your second season you lost a tough playoff series to Kauhajoki? In games 1 and 2 the team allowed 120 points per game. You scored 31 points in game 2. What memories do you have of this series?

Kauhajoki forced us to play a fast paced style of game which fits how I like to play so I just wanted to be very aggressive. I always enjoyed Karhu fans. It gave me an extra boost as well

You were in Germany with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos Second Team (Germany-ProB). You left in December 2020. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

What I learned from Germany was how important it was to take care of my body. Nutrition, Sleep, & recovery is very important and at the time I didn’t understand that.

You played at Georgia Southern University (NCAA) from 2015-2020 and played 133 games. What memories do you have of these 5 years? How tough was not playing March madness in 2020 because of Covid?

Georgia Southern was the most fun times I could say I had in my basketball career. We had such a family vibe and so much talent on the team. It was tough not being able to play march madness. You grow up watching this tournament all your life and hope to play in it one day. It was unfortunate that it was taken away from us

Early in your freshman year you lost to Duke and played against future NBA guys like Grayson Allen and Brandon Ingram. What memories do you have of that game? Were you able soak up valuable things from a loss like that?

Playing at Duke for me was an eye opener. It just showed me that I wasn’t where I wanted to be and that I needed to improve my game in so many ways

You played 4 years with Tookie Brown? Did you guys become like brothers in that time?

Tookie will always be a lifetime brother. I’ve learned so much from him on the court but just off the court he’s a great human being

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

Coach Byington was great. He pushed us everyday to be better on & off the court.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tookie Brown?

Tookie and I didn’t have many 1 on 2 battles. It would be more team battles. Some days be got the best of my team and some days I got this beat of his team

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Brandon Ingram

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tookie brown Montae Glenn Isaiah Crawley Toddrick Gotcher Alterique Gilbert

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Jordan, Kobe, Kareem Abdul Jabbar

Who is your Goat and why?

My goat is LeBron James. His accolades and longevity speaks for itself

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I saw the sequel to coming to America. I enjoyed the movie but it was nothing compared to the 1st.

Thanks Ike for the chat.

Chris Carter Is Truly The Basketball Magician After 4 Successful Attempts Of Bringing Pro A Teams To The easyCredit BBL

pic credit: Nico Leistner

I wish for just once I could have experienced Chris Carter (193-G-1992, college: Florida Tech) LIVE help one of his teams move back up to the easyCredit. Just once see him do his magic and then see his post game celebration. You know I felt a little like Kramer from Seinfeld when he proclaimed in season 1 that he almost ended up going to a Mets game and Seinfeld´s hilarious answer was, “you haven´t been out of the building in 10 years. But I actually also almost ended up going to game 4 in Giessen. However I missed it. My car had it´s annual inspection check up so I was without a car and couldn´t attend this historical day in Jena basketball history. But maybe one day I will witness him do it for a fifth time. He began his incredible quest of helping teams move to the easycredit BBL with Vechta, Chemnitz, Rostock and now with Jena. Almost 5 years ago when he signed with the Rostock Seawolves, I asked him if he was the basketball magician helping Pro A teams move to the easyCredit BBL, he had a rapid response. ““No I’m not. I just been blessed to be a part of two good programs”, warned Chris Carter. Now I guess his answer would be the same with “No, I´m not, I have been a part of 4 good programs”. But seriously after a fourth time, he is definitely the Basketball magician for helping Pro A teams move up. One thing is for sure, every new experience feels great. “ It feels really good and I am blessed for the opportunity to do it again. The fourth one is very special because it has never been done before! Jena was at the top all season long”, stated Chris Carter. Where does this special Jena team rank with the other 3 that he helped move up? “I have been blessed to be on some really good teams. I definitely think it’s up there in rank”, warned Chris Carter.

Pic credit: Nico Leistner

The 33 year old native who believes that the Oklahoma Thunder will clash against the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA finals had a superb performance in game 4 on the road scoring 12 points and grabbing 4 rebounds and dishing out 5 dimes. But it was the incredible game of Zac Cooks who heaved Jena into the easyCredit BBL with 30 points and buzzer beater that will always be remembered from the faithful Jena fans. It was a play that a Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell or Anthony Edwards couldn´t have done better as Cooks displayed a fancy cross over and then drove to the rim and took an off balance floater with 2 fierce Giessen players coming at him and banking it off the glass for the victory. “He is a beast and he had a great season and amazing second half for us. I have seen him do that floater hundreds of times this year in practice and in games so I was confident but still crashed the boards in case he missed it”, smiled Chris Carter. The mutual respect for one another is enormous as Carter´s track record of moving teams up is a well known fact. ““I remember my first day in Jena we got in the gym and got some shots up. We talked about the expectations of the season and the past seasons of ours and we clicked right away. I knew he would be my right hand man this season right after that. Chris is special and does a lot of the little things that statistics may not show. He’s a very vocal person and is always positive on & off the court. We follow his lead and he has helps me a lot especially this season”, explained Zac Cooks.

pic credit: Nico Leistner

Jena didn´t arrive into the playoffs with momentum losing 2 of their last 3 regular season games and knew that they had to take care of business in the post season. “We just had to all get healthy and get rhythm. Then everything would take care of its self”, said Chris Carter. The team held it´s word easily sweeping Bochum. “That was crucial building momentum at the right time”, commented Chris Carter. Jena didn´t start off on the right track losing game 1 at home to Giessen, but then rebounded winning 3 in a row. Was losing that game 1 a blessing in disguise? “Yes I would say so. We had to get some tension back from the Bochum series”, added Chris Carter. Having grit was key in winning the Giessen series and overall Jena had a special team that combined chemistry and character on and off the court. “We had a great group of guys that made competing fun. We worked hard and pushed each other and all understood the common goal”, warned Chris Carter. One can go down the list of 12 players and every guy would be lauded for their contribution, but none more than ultimate veteran and teammate Raymar Morgen who averaged 7/3 in 13 minutes and left his ego behind and accepted a lesser role for the good of the team. “Raymar is a phenomenal veteran and set the tone of what a great vet does behind the scenes”, stressed Chris Carter. Carter´s season isn´t over yet as he has a Pro A final to play against second ranked Trier. Trier swept the season series and you can be sure that Jena will be seeking massive revenge. “We just want to come out and compete and let’s see what happens. Trier is a good team but so are we”, warned Chris Carter. He is still perfect in winning Pro A finals so why not keep it perfect and make it 3 in a row over Trier.

Watching Teodosic And Campazzo Video´s Has Allowed Nico Wenzl(BBC Coburg) To Dish Out Beautiful Passes On A Regular Basis

Nico Wenzl (184-PG-2001) is a 24 year old 184cm point guard that completed his second season with BBC Coburg averaging 9,1ppg, 3,2rpg and 6,6apg. He began his basketball career with DJK Neustadt. He then played in the medi Bayreuth organization from 2017-2021 playing 12 easyCredit BBL games. He also played a season with BBC Coburg in that span and with the TenneT Young Heroes U19 team (NBBL). In the last years he also played with the Dresden Titans, Trier, MBC and Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Nico for talking to germanhoops.com You had BBL experience in Bayreuth and last season with MBC. You r eturned back to the Pro B. Why did you take 2 steps back?

I decided to take a step back so I could get more minutes and responsibility.

Is the easyCredit BBL dream over for you now or is it still a goal?

I wouldn´t go as far as saying that it is over, because my goal is to play as high as possible as long as I have a role.

You returned back to BBC Coburg after being away for 5 years. How did it feel to be back? Is it like a second home for you?

I wouldn´t say that it is a second home, but everything is very familiar. I feel very comfortable here.

How are you a better player now than compared to 2020 when you left?

I´m more mature and balanced. My focus is more on the playmaking and I´m a better leader now. I also have a stronger body.

Tobias Rotegaard said that he enjoys the vibe on the road. Why is BBC Coburg so strong on the road?

We ask ourselves that question a lot. I think that when your on the road, you travel all day and are more focused on the task at hand. I think we are more preoccupied before home games.

What has it been like sharing the back court at times with talented German Adrian Petkovic? What do you appreciate most about his game?

He is very aggressive on offense and a great scorer. When we play together, I have more room. We compliment each other very well.

You were a scoring point guard in the NBBL and never averaged more than 3.8apg as a pro. This season your averaging more than 6,0apg. Did you always have that playmaking in you?

I have always had it in me. I just had a different role in the NBBL. We didn´t have many scorers so I had to do that. This season we have many scorers so I can focus on my playmaking.

Especially in the game in Frankfurt, you dished out some nice assists. At times you looked like Luka Doncic. Do you watch his passing skills?

I watch more Euroleague than NBA. I do watch Doncic highlights, but I watch more videos of Teodosic and Campazzo.

Your averaging 7,8ppg in 31 minutes. Would you like to be averaging more points in the minutes that you get?

I´m focusing more on playmaking because the team needs it more than my scoring. I just do what the team needs. I think my scoring would hurt the team more.

Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 11.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.9%. You also played 7 BBL games. What kind of an experience was playing for the 2025 BBL cup winner?

It was a very fun experience. It was fun especially during the home games. The arena is small, so it gets very loud.

You had talented American guards with Callison, Baldwin and Stove. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there? You only averaged 3,0 minutes in the BBL?

I knew before the season began that my focus would be more on the Pro B. I would practice mainly with the BBL team. I think that I did as good as a job I could of in the practices.

In 2022-2023 you went from Bayreuth to Trier, but averaged only 2,2ppg in 10 minutes time. How disappointing was this season? I´m sure you expected more playing time?

I think that the overall minutes that I averaged per game is deceiving. I played in some games where I started and played 25 minutes while in other games played 2-5 minutes. I feel like that when I did get the trust, I did a good job at that level. It is just difficult when new Americans come, you kind of slip down the rotation.

What was it like playing behind Garai Zeeb? What could you soak up most from him?

Garai is a very good defender and leader. I soaked up those 2 qualities the most from him.

What was it like playing for Jermaine Bucknor? The next season he was NBA champion with Boston. How crazy was that?

That was a huge step for him. I´m really happy for him. He was such a hard worker as a player and coach. It was a huge experience for him.

In 21-22 you played with the Dresden Titans (ProB) averaging 7.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 77.8%. You won the Pro B title. What was so special about this team?

I think that we had the most talented team in the Pro B that season. I think that our biggest strength that season was our chemistry. Most guys had been playing together for years and knew each other well.

Did you have some growing pains coming form the BBL going to the Pro B? How did your game grow under Fabian Strauss?

His playing style fit mine really well. He liked to play free and fast what I like. He liked us taking shots with confidence. That season was a lot of fun. He did a good job finding creative solutions on offense.

You played with medi Bayreuth form 2017-2021. You played your first BBL game at age 17 in May 2018 against Ludwigsburg logging 2 minutes. What memories do you have of him?

I remember that I was very nervous for the whole game. It was a blowout loss against Ludwigsburg in the playoffs. I knew I would play at the end. I was really happy to be able to make my debut in the playoffs.

Do you ever remember battling Gabe York in practice? He reached the NBA with the Magic Pacers a few years later?

I remember when I read that we had signed him, I had no idea who he was. Right away I watched his highlight videos on you tube. He was one of the most talented players that I ever played with. He was so athletic and could hit from all over.

You played your first season with BBC Coburg in 2019-2020 averaging 3,6ppg. How important was it for you having a teammate like Chris Wolf?

Everybody loved him. The fans would chat his name double as loud as everyone else´s. He was our leader and held the team together. He always made the big shots when we needed them most.

In the 2020-2021 season you played 11 games for medi Bayreuth. What was it like playing behind Bastian Doreth? What could you soak up from him?

His work ethic was the most important thing that I could take from him. He was always the first to arrive and last to leave the arena. He showed me what it meant to be a full time professional.

Your best easyCredit BBL game was netting 5 points and dishing out 4 assists against Alba Berlin. What memories do you have playing against guys like Lo, Sikma and Fontecchio

We had guys injured with Doreth and Jones and I knew I would play. I got in in the first half and then from about the 5 minute mark of the third quarter, I played until the end. I think that I used my chance well. I was very nervous, but as soon as I was on the court, it went away.

Who won a 1-1 back in the day you or Christian Feneberg?

If I had to bet, then I would say that I won more games.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA?

Tyrese Rice.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

James Robinson, Gabe York, Nate Linhart, Demon Brooks, Andreas Seifert

Please name your personal NBA, Euro, German Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Bryant Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Milos Teodosic, Nikos Galis, Nikola Jokic, Giannis

Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner, Pascal Roller

Who is your Goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Nico for the chat.

A Crazy Cross Over And An Off Balance Floater Propels Zach Cooks Into The Jena Fans Hearts Forever

pic credit:Christoph Worsch

Giessen had a do or die game in their own living room with a few thousand boisterous Giessen fans doing all they could to keep their season going. It wasn´t loud in the Ost Halle, but bedlam as there were 11,3 seconds to play and game 4 between Giessen and Jena was dead locked at 95-95. The only negative aspect for the Giessen faithful was that Jena had possession and could make history and move back to the easyCredit BBL with a win. You could of given the ball to a handful of players, but none was better than explosive 175cm guard Zach Cooks (175-PG-1999, college: Hofstra) who has been in this kind of a situation his whole career. He has been a walking bucket his whole career and averaged 22,0ppg the last 2 seasons with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) and averaged 18,0ppg in his last 3 seasons with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NCAA). It was a no brainer for him that he would take the last shot. “I’m very confident in myself and I always want the ball at the end of the games to make the game winning plays. Coach had trust in me to do that and I executed it exactly how he wanted”, stressed Zach Cooks. With the seconds winding down he was near the free throw line and produced a sick cross over went right towards the hoop and took an off balance floater with 2 defenders coming at him and let it bank off the glass and in and the rest is history. “This one felt good. It was a special moment as I made a buzzer beater to move us to BBL. It will go down in history and will be talked about forever. This is what we worked all season for. From the first day of pre season to the all the hard practices and long days in the gym, it all paid off to get us to move up to the BBL”, stated Zach Cooks. “He is a beast and he had a great season and amazing second half for us”, warned Chris Carter. A crazy cross over and off balance floater bank shot propels Zach Cooks into the hearts of Jena fans forever.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

The 26 year old Georgia native who feels that the Oklahoma City Thunder will win the 2025 NBA title over the Indiana Pacers were down 1-0 against Giessen and having had to face that kind of adversary was a blessing in disguise. “It made us realize it won’t be easy. Giessen is a good team and we stopped playing the 1st game which led to us giving up the lead and losing”, said Zach Cooks. The scoring guard came alive in the last 3 games in the Giessen series averaging an incredible 24,0ppg after only contributing 9 points on 3/7 shooting in the 84-80 game 1 loss. “I had to get out my head and just play my game how I know to play. I was second guessing myself in game 1 but came out game 2 very aggressive playing my game and it led to good success for myself”, commented Zach Cooks. Jena came together as a team in game 2 and shocked Giessen on the road winning by 10 which totally heightened their self-confidence returning back home and destroyed Giessen by 33 points and had total momentum going back to Giessen to win in spectacular fashion with a buzzer beater. “We were able to win the series and reach the final by staying focused, calm, and believing that we can win every game we play”, expressed Zach Cooks. Jena didn´t go into the playoffs with momentum losing 2 of their last 3 regular season games, but the team knew that now was the time to step up and start the post season. “I was 100% confident in my team. We know in the locker room what we have, we just have to all be locked in and show it on the court. We were locked in from game 1. We wanted to make a statement but also prove to ourselves that we can handle business as the #1 seed”, warned Zach Cooks.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

One guy that may have gotten lost a bit in the shadow of Cooks buzzer beater was ultimate teammate Chris Carter. He is a player that has been a positive disease on clubs like Vechta, Chemnitz, Rostock and now Jena with the incredible skills of being able to lead those teams from the Pro A to the easyCredit BBL. The guy has so much positive energy on and off the court every day and Cooks saw it right from day 1. “I remember my first day in Jena we got in the gym and got some shots up. We talked about the expectations of the season and the past seasons of ours and we clicked right away. I knew he would be my right hand man this season right after that”, added Zach Cooks. Carter does do many things, but it was especially his leadership once again that brought magic to the team. “Chris is special and does a lot of the little things that statistics may not show. He’s a very vocal person and is always positive on & off the court. We follow his lead and he has helps me a lot especially this season”, explained Zach Cooks. You could give Jena´s team middle name character as they had another player by the name of Raymar Morgan who has played at the highest level and is in his 14th season at age 36. He is the ultimate veteran who was very efficient in 13 minutes per game averaging 7,0ppg and 3,0rpg and accepted a lesser role for the good of the team. “Raymar brought the leadership to the team, the voice but also knowledge that he has since he has played for a long time. He’s definitely helped the team in so many different ways”, stressed Zach Cooks. Jena was on top of the standings all season with incredible chemistry and without a doubt, this was the most talented team that Cooks has played on. “Top to bottom we had everything a team needs to be successful. Everybody played their role perfectly and it helped us get to the position we are in today. The team chemistry is easy when we all do things as a team a lot. Off the court activities only helped us on the court and we can pick each other up if one falls”, said Zach Cooks. But the chip isn´t there yet. Granted Jena has moved up to the easyCredit BBL, but still want that chip against Trier. Last season, Cooks lost in the finals in a tough game 3 to Oberwart 81-80 and this time, he wants to make amends. “I wanted it very badly because at the end of the day I am a winner. I hate losing. We will be ready to play both games against Trier. We lost a big lead the first game and were short handed the 2nd game. It will be a good 2 games for both teams with a lot of talent”, warned Zach Cooks. There is serious guard terror within the Trier team as Zach Cooks will have his hands full, but he definitely wants revenge for the 2 loses this season and is on a mission for that first dub.

Sometimes 3 Is A Charm But For Dominik Dolic(FC Bayern Munich) 4 Was A Charm

pic credit: ellystro_media

I must admit watching Ivan Kharchenkov has been very special in the last 4 years mainly because I wrote my first article about him when he was only 16 and many more followed and I had ties to his half brother Nikita. For me there were 2 other great guards a bit in his shadow of Kharchenkov with Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) who have made great strides in their development the last years. Both of these standout guards are from Croatia and have been teammates in Munich and the youth national teams of Croatia for years. I have seen Dominik Dolic play in very many places in the last 4 years in Germany. If It was in the NBBL and Pro B in Frankfurt, or the Pro B in Rhondorf or the Top 4 in Frankfurt and Berlin, it was always a pleasure. Today I´m focusing on the amazing NBBL top 4 weekend of Dominik Dolic who won MVP. He couldn´t have won the MVP without the help of his team especially his 2 guard colleagues with Kharchenkov and Volf. It was such a pleasure watching Dolic and Volf on Saturday and then all 3 on Sunday in the NBBL final where they finally combined for the championship, the first for FC Bayern Munich since 2019 when they won it last. “ It felt amazing especially after losing 3 times in a row and now finally we got it”, said Dominik Dolic. The question is will they ever play together again? Khrachenkov is a role player for the Munich FC Bayern Munich BBL team while Dolic and Volf now seek the next step. The question will be can they also make the next step and become role players like Kharchenkov in the easyCredit BBL or was that the last game for the 3 amigos “ I hope not. But I don’t think it’s the last game that we ever played together.”, warned Dominik Dolic. But what was his favorite moment with the 2 others? “Winning the NBBL together or maybe when we all were together at the youth Olympic Games. Me and Ivan V with Croatia and Ivan K with Germany”, added Dominik Dolic.

FC Bayern Munich came into the NBBL Top 4 seeking revenge for the bitter loss last season against Rasta Academy. FC Bayern Munich weren´t necessarily the favorite or were they? “Coach did a great job getting us ready during preparation for the final 4. So we were mentally motivated, but in my opinion we also weren’t the underdogs in this tournament“, stressed Dominik Dolic. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best and always allowed Rasta Academy to hang around and had to play overtime. Even if there was pressure, FC Bayern Munich had the needed strong mentality that helped them get the win. “I just believed that together we could do it. To be honest I didn’t have the feeling that we would lose in any second of the game”, warned Dominik Dolic. In the overtime period, they were able to come together as a team and get revenge as Marko Volf came up big in crunch-time and hit the biggest three pointer in his youth career. “Marco´s shot was really special I think. Especially when he hit that corner three everybody of us felt kind of relieved”, said Dominik Dolic. Dolic didn´t have a great shooting day going 2/9, but when shots aren´t falling then one has to help his team in others ways. And that is exactly what he did hauling down 5 rebounds, dishing out 7 dimes and getting a steal and block.

In the final FC Bayern Munich had to battle the always tough ratiopharm Ulm that had 2 ex 2022 JBBL champions on the squad with Jordan Mueller and Joel Cwik. FC Bayern Munich had to give a way better performance against them then what they displayed against Rasta Academy. “We knew that if we also play bad in this game that we would lose so that was an extra motivation”, warned Dominik Dolic. Everybody was speculating on Sunday morning about if Ivan Kharchenkov would play in the final or not. He didn´t play in the semi-final, because FC Bayern Munich kept him in Munich for gamme 1 of the BBL playoffs against MBC where he only played 3 minutes. He flew to Berlin Sunday morning with his mother. Would his presence disrupt the Munich team chemistry? EasyCredit BBL legend Steffen Hamann stated it wouldn´t and he would be right. Did his presence possibly give ratiopharm some fear something they may not really have realized? “I don’t know if Ulm had more fear, probably yes but I just was so happy seeing him Sunday morning in the hotel knowing that he would make a very big impact for us in final”, smiled Dominik Dolic. Like in the semi-final against Rasta Academy, FC Bayern Munich came out slow and Ivan Kharchenko couldn´t find his groove going 0/4 from the field. That was the golden opportunity for Dolic to step up and take on some responisbility. “I was just doing everything I could to help the team get the win. My shots weren’t really falling in the semifinal game so my mindset for the final game was to keep shooting I knew that at some point I would start to fall in”, commented Dominik Dolic. The game was a real nail bitter going into the fourth quarter, but then FC Bayern Munich took matters into their own hands and went on a massive and lethal 14-2 run to gain the extra momentum and decide the game. Was that span some of their best defense this season? “Definitely, we played almost perfect defense together in the second half. I did enjoy being on the court at that time, it felt amazing”, expressed Dominik Dolic. The crafty and shifty guard who is a mix out of Micic and Teodosic hit three´s from all over the floor in many different key moments of the game on his way to the MVP title. “I was just playing the game in some situations it felt like I could get a good shot up and I wasn’t really hesitating”, said Dominik Dolic. My favorite trey of his 5 that afternoon was his crazy cross over to his left and nailing the shot. Dorian Grosber of Alba Berlin has put up more than 10,000 shots this season in practice, that you have to wonder how many shots Dolic has put up? “Everyday after practice I’m working on different shots spot up and of the dribble so I think a lot. I averaged putting up between 200-300 shots a day with Ivan Volf”, smiled Dominik Dolic. Two key x-factors in the final were Sermpezis and Kodjoe who combined for 24 points and gave not only gave vital stability on the offensive end. “For sure, they also made a big impact on the defensive end”, stressed Dominik Dolic.

pic credit: ellystro_media

The shooting genius who feels that the Minnesota Timberwolves will win the 2025 NBA title over the New York Knicks finished the final with 19 points, 11 boards, 4 assists and 4 steals and deserved to win the MVP award. It was definitely a day that must of felt like a combination of a birthday and Christmas. “It was definitely one of the best days in my basketball career, I enjoyed every second of it. Winning the MVP was amazing. I wasn’t really thinking about winning the MVP for me the only thing that mattered was winning the league I gave everything I had and in the end that was the out outcome ”, said Dominik Dolic. He had one favorite play of the weekend and of course it wasn´t to difficult to predict what his favorite moment was. “The corner three of Ivan. With that shot he brought us to the final. The coolest moment at the top 4 was raising the trophy together with my team”, stated Dominic Dolic. Nothing could cap off the weekend best than the trip back to Munich. Was the trip home crazy or more chilled? “The bus ride was very long so we had a little bit of everything. Of course we also got a little crazy and celebrated”, smiled Dominik Dolic. It was a pleasure to have been able to follow Dominik Dolic at the NBBL level the last years. Now it will be interesting to observe how his professional career will continue. I will definitely keep tabs on this exceptional high energy guard in the next years.

Ilya Fohl(Alba Berlin) Was The Steph Curry Of Berlin In The JBBL Final As He Was Letting It Rain Three´s From All Over

Ilja Fohl is a 15 year old 185cm small forward that averaged 12/1/1/1 stats in the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to eurobasket after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats I on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

This so crazy for me. I came from Zehlendorf and have never had that kind of success before like this with Alba Berlin. It is so full filling for me to have won this title. I thank the coaches and my teammates for the great effort.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

It was big. So many people said that we wouldn´t win again, because we had bad opponents. That pushed us so much more to work harder and winning feels so good.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It is a great feeling knowing that NBA superstars gave us support. That shows that Alba Berlin is a family and that they have stayed on the ground.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

When he is hot and hitting shots, it´s deadly for then opponent. We are similar in a way as players. We both have shown that when you work hard, results will show.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

We is a good three point shooter and we wanted to take that away from him. We did a pretty good job doing that. We wanted him to go more into the zone and tire him out. We made him work hard for every shot.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is our only real big and is our X-factor. His energy and strength is so strong. Our coach always told us to look for him. He saved us a lot of times in then final.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

They are a great strong team. If Klaric and Oldiges had scored more, it could have been a tougher game for us. They live off runs and always came back. I think that our depth was key for the win.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That dunk was so big. There hadn´t been many dunks in the game and his gave us the momentum at that point. The arena went crazy.

Ihla Foehl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

I was today. There are games where I don’t find my shots. Luca Kappel and I are the splash brothers of Berlin.

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think key was staying calm and playing our game. We hit big shots and made them when we needed to. We didn´t give them a chance to come back.

You are an amazing shooter. Who is your big basketball role model?

My role model is Damian Lillard. He may not be the best shooter, but I chose him because not everyone has him as a role model.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I will see if I go to school or not. I won´t go into the club or drink. I will celebrate with my family.

Thanks Ilya for the chat.

Defending So Many Great 1-1 Players Like Fynn Rieck Helped Daniel Gwanihu(ALBA Berlin) Develop Further As A Defender

Daniel Gwanihu is a 16 year old 189cm guard that averaged 13/7/4/3 stats during the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to germanhoops.com after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats Daniel on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

I feel really good. We had an up and down season. It is great to win the title.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

When we found out that we would play against Oldenburg, we were very motivated. Getting the win was a total team effort.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It was cool seeing ex Alba Berlin players come back and support us. I felt that was very correct. They are big role models for me. I want to follow in their footsteps to the NBA.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

Luca was so big for us hitting three pointers, but in our team every player is important.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

He is a very good player and it was my job to stop him. He is hard to stop. He is big and strong and good on the pick and role. He is also a very smart player.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is another very important player for our success. He found his way into the team really well. I´m really proud of how he played.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

We have a lot of respect for them. Oldenburg is a very good organization that play in the BBL. They have players that are really present on the court and know how to compete.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That Jason dunk brought hype into the arena. That prepared us for the fourth quarter. That was his best dunk of the season.

Ilya Fohl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

Yes he is. He is a great shooter. He was also a new player for us. He is a great player and best shooter in Germany

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think that key was our defense. That helped us get on transition and our inside game was also good.

You won 2025 NBBL defender of the year. How did you see your defense grow this season?

I feel like I developed well this season. There are many really good 1-1 players in the JBBL. That helped my defense develop further. I played well against MVP Fynn Rieck.

Who is your favorite defender and who you look up to?

I like to watch Nick Weiler-Babb.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I have school tomorrow. I will celebrate with family and friends.

Thanks Daniel for the chat.