Tom Johnson is an Irish-Canadian that is a basketball coach and as a player played in countries like Belgium, Germany, France and Italy. As a coach he has coached in countries like Finland, Belgium and as of late in Austria for team Oberwart. He recently talked to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Tom thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and are you a guy that likes to follow the NCAA March Madness?

 

Hi thanks for inviting me for this conversation. I am currently in Belgium. I do follow the March Madness and it is a great tournament this year.

On your eurobasket.com profile, it states that you were fired from your head coaching duty at Oberwart. You also were experiencing some health problems. What exactly was the cause for your dismissal? The club was at position seven and not necessarily down in the cellar.

I left Oberwart due to unexpected health issues that started in November. The treatment required 3 surgeries that took me away from the team for short and extended periods of time. The last surgery left me in the hospital for 9 days and took a lot out of me. It was impossible for me to continue at 100% energy and focus so the club and I agreed on an extended medical leave of absence until end of season. This decision was best for me and for the club.

Oberwart has had an up and down season having some nice winning streaks and also losing streaks. Why wasn´t the team able to be more consistent this season?

Well winning on a consistent basis is a seasonal phenomenon even under the very best of conditions but we had a completely new group of foreign players from last season and we had the unfortunate run of key injuries right at the end of preseason that affected our process of building integration and roles. The injury problems came back again down the road and then my health issues began so it was difficult to find a steady level with these distractions. I always believed that we were going to be tough at the end of the journey and I think the team can still do more than everyone expects in the playoffs.

You have been head coach in Finland and a long time in Belgium and in Austria the last two seasons. How was the step coming to Austria, a lower league in comparison to Belgium. Did you see it as a step backwards or a time to continue to develop and take on a new challenge?

I saw the decision to come to Austria as a new challenge and opportunity to have good results in yet another country that plays basketball on a very good level.

After a strong rookie season in Germany, Abe Lodwick has had a stellar season with Oberwart and is the second best rebounder on the team for 201cm. How important has this season been for him in developing further? Is Lodwick ready to go back to a higher level and succeed with the experience that he had in Austria?

Abe is one of the finest character guy I have ever coached. He approaches each day with professionalism. This season has been very important for Abe as I feel it has allowed him to play a more complete role and with this has helped him become a more complete player. I think the summer training will be very important for him. If he dedicates himself to bring new dimensions of specific strength and conditioning combined with better ball handling he can surely play a larger role in BBL as a combo 3-4.

American Sammy Zeglinksi came to Oberwart via a solid NCAA career at Virginia and a strong rookie season as so many players do like Derrick Allen did. Is Zeglinski ready next season for the next step like in the Beko BBL or a higher league?

Sammy is so talented and he has great natural instincts to score, make plays. He is a game changer when the chips are down. For the next level Sammy needs to also bring his conditioning level in the summer to a higher level going into his next preseason. I think he is a great piece for a team at the next level because. With another guard beside him that can create and make good scoring and passing decisions he would flourish. I kind of see him being a Taylor Rochestie type with continued development.

What was the most challenging thing that you had as a headcoach in Austria with Oberwart. If you had to compare your experience in Austria to other coaching stations in your career how would you describe it?

I think the challenges are the same everywhere you work as a professional coach. The overall professionalism is different on a daily operational sportive level when I compare BELGIUM, GERMANY and Turkey to Austria. It is difficult when you don’t have everyone in practice consistently…so the challenge then is to create and foster he best practice environment possible when you have 4 or maybe 5 players in morning practice. This can be tough but you have to teach and work constructively and intelligently inspite of the circumstances.

You came late in the 2009-2010 Beko BBL season to the Deutsche Bank Skyliners to assist Gordon Herbert and almost won a Beko BBL title. What exactly is your connection to Herbert? Did you guys meet in your short stay in Finland as a coach?

Gordie and I are both Canadian and from the same province of British Columbia. We both played on the Canadian National team albeit in different eras but this is the strong common bond we have. We met in Europe when he was coaching in Wurzburg and I was on an interim playing contract in Bamberg. We have been friends since. Gordie helped facilitate my first contact with a team in Finland where I started my coaching career.

Are you disappointed that you weren´t able to assist Gordon Herbert in Berlin or now in Frankfurt? It is no secret that Frankfurt has a Klaus Perwass since years as assistant coach and very dedicated non removable staff, but possibily in Berlin there could have been room for you?

I was talking to Gordie at the time he was about to go to Alba but I had the desire to head coach again after Assistant coaching positions in Frankfurt and Turk Telekom in Turkey. I think it would have been great to assist him in Alba but things just didn’t materialise in time. I would be great to work together with him in the future.

You played a season in Giessen as a player and was an assistant with Gordon Herbert. How appealing would be a return to Germany as head coach?

There are many many great coaches without jobs. Germany is one of the top leagues in Europe. Any aspiring pro coach would love to have an opportunity to work as a head coach there. I would love to have that opportunity. My experience working in multiple countries has prepared me for this but you need an opportunity.

Would you be willing to coach in the German Pro A if you had the possibility or is the Beko BBL main goal?

I think Pro A can be a great situation to build and move into the BBL. I am ready for an opportunity in the Beko BBL.

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences as to why any basketball team would love to have your coaching services how would you describe it?

Well, I believe I have distinguished myself by maximizing the potential I have had thus bringing the best results possible. I think I have a strong ability translate technical knowledge into a successful program for the players, coaching staff and management. I feel on a personal level I am extremely disciplined and competitive but I love people and want to connect on a human level with people from top to bottom within the organization. Without this human connection it is impossible to perform on the highest level and be successful.

Gordon Herbert has been a very successful basketball coach and is doing his magic again this season with the Fraport Skyliners as he has led some impressive wins against Munich and Ulm and fought through adversity with many injuries. You know him as coach and besides the normal blab la as to why he is so successful, what vital attribute in his coaching ability would you see as most vital as to why he is so consistent and successful?

Gordie has all the technical expertise that the top 1% coaches have. He is a great team builder understanding the personal human connection with different personalities. I think in professional European basketball you have people on your team from many different races, colors, religious backgrounds and if you can’t reach people as individuals than the culture of your team will never share and be responsible for the common goal. Gordie is a master at creating a culture and mentality of winning.

You have been coaching for a while. What satisfies you most about coaching besides winning?

Interpersonal relationships and the feeling of helping players develop to their potential.

What was your most memorable experience in your short time as assistant coach with the Deutsche Bank Skyliners?

Going to the Finals vs Bamberg and coming one win away from championship

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The Butler.

 

Thanks Tom for the chat.

Joston Crow is a 26 year old 193cm swing man from Spring, Texas that is playing hiss econd season in the German Pro A for Crailsheim. Last season he played  30 games: 11.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 73.9%. Before turning professional, he played for : Sam Houston St. (NCAA,) and palyed 31 games: 12.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 70.0%. He spoke to German Hoops before the final game in Goettingen for the title.

 

 

Josten thanks for talking to German HoopsIt has been a whirlwind and exciting of a season for Crailsheim. If someone had told you last September that Crailsheim would be in the German Pro A final, what would have been your reaction?

 

Great speaking with you as well. My first reaction would be that it is truly a blessing and a huge turnaround. I feel like we have a really have a good mix off guys that love to see each other succeed within our team concept.

The German Pro A had been a very very tight league. What was the biggest strength of head coach Willie Young and the club that it was able to have a strong season and reach the final?

Coach Will is a former player and has had a lot of success himself, so he knew what it takes for a team to prosper in the long run. I believe that his ability to stay calm in pressure situations, allows us to do the same and focus at the task at hand.

What is your general reaction of the Pro A final format in that it is a two game series like in soccer and the team that has the better point difference wins

Its something that I’ve never experienced before, but not hard to adjust to. But Ideally, I believe winning both games is the ultimate goal.

Crailsheim won at home 93-91 and made a tough fourth quarter comeback for the win. What was key for grinding out the win at home against 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen.

Well I honestly believe we have the best fans in the League. They always play a huge part in our home success. I also believe we are battle tested in close-game situations, and believe that we can overcome a lot as a team.

Do you ever lose track of words how important the worth has been of Carlos Medlock for Crailsheim? Where would the club be without his services this season?

First off, Carlos is a great friend of mine, and a great player as well. He has been vital to our team’s success. Only God knows, where we would be without him.

Your stats have been down from last season, but still you have been a very important player for Crailsheim. You are shooting over 40% from outside. How pleased have you been with your play and I am sure you will leave it all on the floor once again Sunday in Goettingen.

I think we have a very deep team this year, and team success is the most important thing to me. So I am very pleased with that at this point. Individually, you always want to improve and I feel like I will continue to do so. I am very anxious for Sunday’s game, as are my teammates.

How positive are you going into the last game Sunday in Goettingen? Crailsheim have a 2-1 season record against BG Goettingen. However BG Goettingen need to win by more than two points. Crailsheim forced BG Goettingen to 20 turnovers in the last game. I guess the main focus is to just win the game and Crailsheim will be Pro A champion. What else will be key in going home champion?

I am positive and thankful for the opportunity to compete in this game in Goettingen today. And I agree 100% Winning the game will be our focus. I also think that taking care of the ball and making free throws will be crucial to winning this game, as it usually is.

Have you been surprised by all the close NBA series in the first round?

I have been shocked by all the close series in the NBA playoffs. Im a native Houstonian, so to see the Rockets lose in the first round was disappointing but I believe they will bounce back next year.

Can the Dallas Mavericks win game seven in San Antonio? What is your prediction and why?

Sure, I believe Dallas CAN win, however, San Antonio’s championship experience and deep roster sways me in their direction. I pick SA. Home court in the deciding game is big, and Tony Parker remains to be one of the league’s most underrated PG’s in my opinion.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Soul Men with Samuel L. Jackson and Bernie Mac.

Thanks Josten for the chat.

 

Playing in the O2 World arena in Berlin is for many Beko BBL teams the highlight of the season as not only does one have the challenge of beating a top Beko BBL team, but one plays in one of the most modern, spectacular and amazing arenas in Europe. Plus one can measure one´s self against top players like David Logan, Leon Radosevic or Clifford Hammonds all the while not getting intimidated by the three time Yugoslavian world champion Sasa Obradovic. However for the Fraport Skyliners all these challenges seemed to be a bit in the shadow of the process of how the season has gone for the 2000 German cup winner. With the last game of the season in Berlin and totally meaningless for Frankfurt as in the past they had played very important playoff games in May, there were many questions on the minds of the players to where they could actually be in the standings on the last game day. Where would the team be today if Dawan Robinson had stayed the whole season and played as dominate as last season. Where would the Fraport Skyliners be if Andrew Rautins had played the complete season and dropped some more 30 point games on teams. Where would the team be placed if they had won a number of the six crunch time loses that was inflicted upon them. Where would Frankfurt be if Dane Watts had played the last six weeks and if Kevin Bright hadn´t been more injured and had been able to develop his game more. The Fraport Skyliners had to forgot what could have been for 40 minutes and play for pride and try to whip the butts of 8 time Beko BBL champion and go into summer vacation with their heads held high, but Alba Berlin was simply too much for the Fraport Skyliners winning 67-59 in a defensive orientated battle. After the game Cincinnati native Quantez Robertson had his typical post game face on and deflected any ideas that the game didn´t have some kind of meaning. “It was tough playing an opponent Alba Berlin in the last game of Marius Nolte and Sid. I thought we were motivated to play as hard as we could. I love the basketball competition against the other guys and just having fun”, smiled Quantez Robertson. For Alba Berlin the game had a meaning as they still had chances of overtaking Bamberg with them losing at home against Bonn, but that didn´t happen, but the players know that every game has  a meaning for their three time European champion head coach Sasa Obradovic. “We were motivated as there is never any relaxation for Sasa Obradovic. He always wants to win and it was important to win, but with Bamberg winning, we now have a meaningless game against FC Bayern Munich Sunday, but where we will give everything”, warned ex Frankfurt Skyliner Alex King.

Alba Berlin came into the game in third place with a record of 25-7 and were riding a very strong eight game winning streak after having had a down period in February where they lost three of four games. Alba Berlin had a slow first half, but found their rhythm on offense in the third quarter and also displayed consistency on both ends of the court as the Fraport Skyliners were unable to find a way to combat it. Alba Berlin also were teasing Frankfurt all game long on the boards as Frankfurt was unable to match their intensity. “We fought hard for 40 minutes, but I have to give a lot of credit to the Skyliners. They played very well and hard despite injuries and having many young players. We fought hard against them and knew that they would cave in sometime and we took advantage of it. We took advantage of our offensive strength as Redding and Logan hit big shots. When you have guys of their offensive capabilities, it will always be to our advantage. Our ball movement also was very good”, stressed ex Telekom Baskets Bonn guard. The Fraport Skyliners entered the game in 11^th place with a record of 14-19 and were playing spirited basketball as of late as they went into the Alba Berlin game with a three game winning streak having won games against TBB Trier, SC Rasta Vechta and the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. The Fraport Skyliners played a very solid first half having the lead for the first 17 minutes until they allowed Alba Berlin to go on  a little run. In the second half, the 2004 Beko BBL champion just couldn´t keep up with the intensity of the 2014 cup champion and couldn´t match their experience, versatility or depth. “We wanted to end the season on a good note in Berlin. We didn´t lose energy in the third quarter, but focus. We took bad shots and missed passes which doomed us. Overall we did  a good job on defense holding Alba Berlin to 67 points. However we didn´t do a good job on defensive rebounds. But overall it was a decent effort on defense”, stressed Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi.

Ex Frankfurt Skyliner Ibrahim Diarra was at the game watching his ex team play, while Alba Berlin had to play without Leon Radosevic and the Fraport Skyliners were without ex Vanderbilt guard Kevin Bright as both were suffering injuries. The Fraport Skyliners got on the board first as Danilo Barthel nailed a sweet hook shoot over 2008 ULEB Cup winner Jan Jagla. David Logan then connected on a catch and pop three pointer as ex Clemson point guard Cliff Hammonds set him up. Frankfurt started to defend aggressively from the bat which presented problems for Alba Berlin as they were forced to tough shots. The Fraport Skyliners took advantage of missed shots and stormed out on a 8-0 run to take the 10-3 lead. The run was started with a bang with back to back three point bombs from American Jarred Dubois and German Konstantin Klein. Klein then connected on free throws. Frankfurt was able to extend their lead to 14-5 as they did a super job drawing fouls as Klein and Burtschi hit free throws, while Canadian Levon Kendall made a reverse dunk getting fed by German Sven Schultze.  Basketball continues to be a game of runs as Alba Berlin halted the Frankfurt run with their own 7-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 14-12. In the run Reggie Redding hit free throws, Vojdan Stojanovski made free throws and ex BG Goettingen guard Akeem Vargas dropped a three pointer on the fast break. It didn´t help the Frankfurt cause that Aziz Ndiaye was blanked at the free throw line. Ex Phoenix Hagen Forward Jacob Burtschi did end the first quarter on  a good note hitting a three pointer as the Fraport Skyliners led 17-12. “Frankfurt started very well, something that isn´t easy to do her. Despite their injury problems this season, you could see that the young Germans play with mush confidence. Frankfurt defended very well, something that has always been a staple of head coach Gordon Herbert”, stressed ex Frankfurt Skyliner Ibrahim Diarra. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 33% from the field and 43% from outside while Alba Berlin was shooting 27% from the field and 40% from outside. Frankfurt had the 9-8 rebound edge, but six turnovers while Frankfurt had three turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were able to keep the lead until the last minutes as the game remained tight. Jan Jagla really took control in the second quarter as his inside dominance brought back memories to the potent Kyle Visser play in Braunschweig where he gave a basketball lesson on how to control the boards. Alba Berlin started the second quarter with a 6-3 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 19-18. Jagla made two easy tip ins as Frankfurt was simply to soft inside and let the ex Penn State center dictate the play. Kendall made a fade away jumper over NDiaye and Quantez Robertson struck for a three pointer. Robertson kept up his three point shooting terror connecting on another from down town and David Logan who has played 101 Euroleague games scored inside as Frankfurt led 22-20. Even if Frankfurt got beat on the boards at times, they also made amends as Johannes Voigtmann scooped up an offensive rebound and made the put back as Frankfurt led 26-20. Alba Berlin then had some luck as big man Levon Kendall who has a nice touch from outside connected on a three pointer and Danilo Barthel made free throws as Frankfurt led 28-22. However Alba Berlin then scored 13 unanswered points to lead 35-28. Indianapolis native David Logan got hot hitting two nasty shots where Frankfurt defended him well making a step back and a catch and pop three pointer.  Jagla got his third put back of the quarter as Frankfurt remained as lax on the boards as a linebacker who gets plowed over by a running back who has no authority to do so. Stojanovski ended the run sneaking inside for the simple lay up. Frankfurt was able to halt the run with 4-0 run as Robertson scored inside and a spectacular last second shot by Johannes Richter who weaved inside and ended with a finger tip roll in as Alba Berlin went into halftime with the 35-32 advantage, “Jan Jagla had  a big quarter, but that was no surprise. He was the biggest on the court and should have been able to make those plays. Max Merz had some problems and then make  a few turnovers and Alba Berlin will go on a run which they did”; stressed Ibrahim Diarra. Alba Berlin was shooting 40% from the field and 38% from the three point line and the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 41% from the field and 40% from the three point line. Alba Berlin had the 17-16 rebound edge and seven turnovers and Frankfurt had 10 turnovers.

In the third quarter, both teams had massive problems producing points as in the first six minutes only two field goals had been hit as Frankfurt had the 3-2 lead in the quarter itself. The game was wild as both teams were making turnovers at a high rate and Quantez Robertson made three steals in a span of two minutes to hinder Alba Berlin from breaking away. “Tez never stops no matter if were up by 30 or down by 30”, stressed ex Bremerhaven forward Jacob Burtschi. However with four minutes to play in the third quarter, Alba Berlin was able to break away ending the quarter with a 15-7 run to lead 52-42. Alba Berlin got free throws from Kendall and  a huge three pointer from ex Tuebingen American Redding. Frankfurt was involved in too many individual plays as Dubois shot a hook shot airball and the club made some turnovers because of  a lack of concentration. Alba Berlin continued to get to the foul line as Kendall connected and Hammonds who is playing in his sixth country as a professional nailed a three pointer as Alba Berlin led 47-36. In the last few minutes, Frankfurt attempted to chip at the Alba Berlin lead, but couldn´t get it down to 10 points. Konstantin Klein who bested his top scoring games against Bamberg and Vechta with 16 points in Berlin made an  off balance shot with one second on the shot clock. Alex King who played a very controlled game penetrated from the wing and found Kendall for the easy bucket as Frankfurt trailed 49-38. Dubois then scored inside while King nailed a high rainbow three pointer and Robertson made two free throws as Alba Berlin led 52-42 after 30 minutes. “Alba Berlin upped their defense in the third and showed why they are such a good defensive team. We had no offense in this phase and they got going”, stressed Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. ”We had  a good third quarter opening up the game that got us going to winning the game”, added Philadelphia native Reggie Redding. Alba Berlin was shooting 40% from the field and 43% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 36% from the field and 36% from the parking lot. Alba Berlin was leading the rebound duel 27-21 and has 12 turnovers while Frankfurt had 14 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter Alba Berlin kept control of the game as the Fraport Skyliners made one last push in crunch time, but couldn´t limit turnovers at the end to make the game even more exciting as they couldn´t cut the lead down to less than seven points. Alba Berlin started off the fourth quarter with a 4-0 run to lead 56-42 as the big men Jan Jagla and Johannes Wolfarth-Bottermann scored buckets in the zone. Frankfurt also connected on offense, but couldn´t really make any ground as they were unable to get consecutive stops on defense. Robertson found an open Voigtmann on the pick and role for a dunk, but Hammonds  hit a turn around shot and Klein followed with  a three pointer as he saw a second of daylight and shot, but Frankfurt couldn´t make any  ground as they trailed 58-47. King then made a tough turn around shot over the taller Voigtmann as Alba Berlin led 62-49. Frankfurt then made one last push going on a 6-2 run to trail Alba Berlin 64-55 as Barthel and Klein connected on free throws, Redding made a fade away shot and Klein snuck inside for the easy basket. With a minute to play, Frankfurt sought one last breath of hope as Barthel nailed  a three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 65-58. However Nolte came on the floor for his last minutes  in his professional basketball career missing free throws and making  a turnover as Redding made him pay with a step back jumper sealing the win for Alba Berlin. “Redding was big in the fourth quarter showing why he was a MVP candidate. He hit big shots and is a big piece to their success and why he is here and not in Tuebingen”, stressed Jacob Burtschi. “Experiencee helped us get this win today. In so many situations, Sasa Obradovic knows which player should have the ball and what decisions should be made. We stayed calm at the end and hit our shots”, stressed ex s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg forward Alex King. “From the middle of the third quarter until the end, we got away from executing and didn´t make the easy plays. We missed shots, but also passed up easy shots. We didn´t do a good job boxing out”, warned  Quantez Robertson.

Alba Berlin were led by David Logan and Levon Kendall with 12 points a piece. Reggie Redding contributed 11 points and Jan Jagla added 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Konstantin Klein with 16 points. Quantez Robertson and Danilo Barthel produced 10 points  a piece. Alba Berlin finished the game shooting 43% from the field and 40% form outside while the Fraport Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 37% from outside. Alba Berlin dominated the boards 36-28 and had 16 turnovers while Frankfurt had 18 turnovers. It was the last game for Paderborn native Marius Nolte who was sad after the loss about playing his last game, but also looked forward and is looking forward to see what the club will do in the next season. “The German players developed and with Tez and Burtschi on board, I am convinced that we will have a successful season next year. We made  a good step this season and now we will see where it will take us”, stressed Marius  Nolte. The biggest fighter and biggest heart remains to Quantez Robertson and he was a big reason why his teammates followed his lead this season. “We fought every game, played aggressive each game, left it on the floor and won and lost as  a team. I think our future is great. Our goal will be the playoffs and looking to play cup and play for a championship”, warned Quantez Robertson

Myles Hesson is a 23 year old 195 cm forward from Birmingham, England that is one of the 12 best players in Great Britain and was selected for the 2013 national team playing in Slovenia at the Eurochampionships. He currently is playing in the German Pro A this season for the Giessen 46ers. Last season he played for  Weissenhorn Youngstars (Germany-ProB, starting five): 20 games: 19.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 54.4%, 3FGP: 27.4%, FT: 65.6%, in Mar.’13 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL): 9 games: 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. He started his professional career in 2009-2010 for  Birmingham Aces (EBL2) averaging 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 33.3%. In 2010-2011, he played for the Essex Pirates Basketball Club (BBL): 11 games: 9.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 68.4%. Last season he played for Liverpool Mersey Tigers (BBL, starting five): 27 games: 15.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 61.5%. This past summer, he was a member of the British national team taking part in preparations for the 2012 Summer Olympics. He also took part at the British 3×3 Mixed and menTeam for World Championships in Greece  in 2012. He spoke to German Hoops after being swept by BG Goettingen in the 2014 pro A playoffs.

 

A tough 83-71 loss to BG Goettingen in game three which ended the season for the Giessen 46ers. What ultimately led 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen to be able to sweep this semi final series?

 

They had a full healthy team and ultimately out worked us down the stretch.

Was the BG Goettingen roster just deeper and more experienced that just ate away at Giessen?

Yeah they have a very good bench and don’t lose much fire-power when their second unit is in.

You missed the second straight game for Giessen. How good would the Giessen chances have been if you had been healthy in this series to advance?

Its hard to say, I could have played and not made much difference, or it could have gone the other way and I could have had great games against them.

Giessen stormed out hot in the first quarter with a 31 point explosion. What surprise effect did Giessen have on offense that seemed to baffle BG Goettingen?

We came out much more aggressive in game 3 and I think Goetingen were a bit shocked by this.

What adjustments did BG Goettingen make in the second quarter netting 23 points and trailing Giessen only by one point at the break?

Basketball is a game of runs, they weathered the storm at the start and stayed composed to bring it back on run of their own.

How proud were you of German Joshiko Saibou? He led the team with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Is his heart bigger than his body?

Joshi has played bigger than he is all season long, He has a good feel for the ball and is a good rebounder on both ends.

If you could choose one BG Goettingen player, who will make the most impact in the Beko BBL? Would you choose between Americans Harper Kamp and Alex Ruoff?

I think Ruoff’s game will transfer well to the next level, he has good size and skills for his position.

Now that BG Goettingen has reached the final and is moved up to the Beko BBL. Is the final against Nurnberg or Crailsheim just a formality for them to win the Pro A title?

Yeah I would think so, they’ve been the best team all season so its only right that they win in my opinion.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Cable Guy.

Thanks Myles for the chat.

 

For a while, reaching that last home game for the regular season wasn´t the last home game for the Frankfurt Skyliners, because in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, the 2004 Beko BBL champion would have extended home games in May as they reached the Beko BBL playoffs four years in a row. In the last three years visiting the Fraport arena in May, one wouldn´t have seen any baskets on the court, but just a dark arena with the last basketball season already a painful distant memory. Especially last seasons last home game was nothing for weak nerves as the club had their second do or die game in their existence in terms of staying or possibly dropping down the league a sin 2006 they were saved on the last game day against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and last season won a nail bitter against Ludwigsburg. This season, the team had nothing to worry about as they were far away from the cellar to be at any risk of moving down and enough wins shy of reaching the playoffs as their dismal 2014 and crucial crunch time loses disallowed them extra games in May. So with the last home game of the season against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, there was really only one thing to look forward to and that was seeing ex Fraport Skyliner Derrick Allen battle in the zone and dazzle the fans with his ballerina moves. It seems ages since Allen last played in Frankfurt as the only two players left from the 2009-2010 season where Allen last played in Frankfurt were Quantez Robertson and Marius Nolte. Besides observing the Alabama native one could also watch  Frankfurt legend Derrick Allen vs future Frankfurt legend Danilo Barthel. 33 year old Allen is in the twighlight of his career and 25 p 12 rebound nights aren´t present as much, but he still gives 110% and is consistent as he scored in double figures 15 times in his first 16 games. Barthel is on the verge of the German national team and wanted to finish his last home game of the season with a bang. Both guys know how to score and Allen can always catch his defender on the wrong foot with his ballerina moves. Allen was back in his old stomping ground and had a tough hard fought duel with Barthel, but he couldn´t come out on top as the Alabama native had to depart from the floor with a 72-65 loss. For the ex Alba Berlin player Allen it is always a joy to come home, but his presence was more of a side note in his eyes as his humbleness was there as always. “It is always good to come home and a joy to play for the fans, but the game was more for Marius Nolte than for me. It more about him than me”, smiled ex BG Karlsruhe forward Derrick Allen. Allen had his typical type of game finishing with 12 points and six rebounds and three steals as Danilo Barthel had eight points, three rebounds and two blocks. He may have been in the shadow of Darius Adams and his 23 points, but he got Bremerhaven going at the start with points and offensive rebounds. Bremerhaven Calvin Oldham couldn´t have asked for more from the 33 year old. “He is our captain and leader. He did everything that I asked him to do this season. I am happy that the Frankfurt fans greeted him so nicely. He really couldn´t have played better for his age this season”, stressed 1989 BBL champion with Bayreuth Calvin Oldham. 2014 Beko BBL best offensive player Darius Adams got big eyes when asked about the worth of Allen to the team. “D.A was the best leader that I could have been around. He taught me to be a leader. I am still learning from him. Even when we are losing he kept us together”, warned Darius Adams.

Every good thing always comes to an end, but for professional athletes retiring from the job they love comes a lot earlier than for the normal individual. Marius Nolte is a 33 year old 206cm center from Paderborn that played for Paderborn from 2001-2009 and came to Frankfurt in 2009. His best stat season was 2010-2011 as he averaged 5.1ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 71.4%. He was a guy that never played much, but was the leader of the team and was always there for everyone on and off the court and was the perfect role model for the young kids. Coming into his last home game, Nolte had played 246 Beko BBL games with 140 for Frankfurt and 106 for Paderborn.This season he was out for most of the year as he was coming off a knee injury and played only nine games scoring five points in Ludwigsburg and Vechta. Not too long ago he announced that this would be his last season. The game against Bremerhaven was very emotional as his parents and wife watched on as he said farewell after the game in a teary eyed speech. Gordon Herbert allowed him to start his last home game and he contributed four points in nine minutes. It seemed like this time his post game routine took a lot longer as he posed for every picture and autograph and granted every interview. Nolte was very emotional after the game, but was thrilled for the way his last game was received. “It was a great atmosphere in the arena. I am happy that we won and it couldn´t have been a better ending to my last game at home. Derrick Allen came to me before and after the game and wished me the best. Also throughout the game players from Bremerhaven came to me and wished me the best. I thought that this was great to see the togetherness that is present in the Beko BBL”, stressed Marius Nolte. Missouri native and injured Skyliner Dane Watts was in awe to be able to witness a game where he could feel the special atmosphere of having a Derrick Allen playing in his old living room and the farewell to Marius Nolte. “Allen has had a long career and great years in Frankfurt. He had a good game today, but Frankfurt got the win. The reception that Nolte got speaks for itself. It just shows how important and special he has been to this organization. Every player wants a farewell like that”, stressed ex Tuebingen forward Dane Watts. Nolte will move into Skyliner management and suit up for the Pro B farm club.

Besides the emotional Marius Nolte farewell at home, there was also a 40 minute basketball game to be played as 4540 fans found their way into the Fraport arena. The Fraport Skyliners entered the game in 11^th place with a record of 13-19 and had a two game winning streak and were coming off a huge buzzer beater win in Vechta as Fraport Skyliner Kevin Bright displayed that light bright whenever he nailed three pointers. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t play a great game, but it was enough to win as they picked up their game in the fourth quarter. “This was a tough game, but nice to see familiar faces. We want to end the season on a good note. We didn´t do too much well until the fourth quarter when we got the lead up to 10 points and played the way we should”, stressed Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven entered the game in 13^th place and had a 11-21 record. They weren´t having too much luck the last weeks as they were riding a six game losing streak and were coming off a tough 75-72 loss against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg. After the loss, Bremerhaven head coach Calvin Oldham was sullen, but was able to find the right words as too why his club had problems winning this game. “We simply don´t have enough deepness when we have this double weekend games. Both games against Wurzburg and Frankfurt were physical. We were without Philipp Ziwener and Nick Schneiders which hurt us. Frankfurt rebounded better and attacked at the right moments and kind of caught us on our heels a few times. Frankfurt was aggressive on offensive boards and we couldn´t handle it which was a sign of fatigue. However our guys fought hard”, stressed Eisbaeren head coach Calvin Oldham.

With the game being meaningless for both teams, Fraport Skyliner head coach Gordon Herbert inserted captain Marius Nolte and Max Merz into the starting lineup. Fraport Skyliner Kevin Bright had a huge game in Vechta with seven three pointers 48 hours ago, but his bright light from then wasn´t shinning yet as he made a bad pass which American Darius Adams picked off and went coast to coast for the lay in. However Bright made up for his mistake shinning some of that three point light hitting form the parking lot for the 3-2 Frankfurt lead. Allen then made his patent fade away jumper and despite his 33 years looked like it could have been something out of his BG Karlsruhe days. Both teams would swap leads as much society girl Paris Hilton does her hobbies as it would go back and fourth. Danilo Barthel then hit a three pointer with one second left on the shot clock after Merz had been denied inside and kicked the ball out. Bremerhaven then went on a quick 7-0 run to lead 11-6 as Allen scored via his patent ballerina movies and Adas Juskevicious hit a runner. This was probably the strongest phase of Bremerhaven in the game as they extended their lead to 19-10 as Darius Adams took over as offensive force scoring twice inside as his quickness was steering up big problems for Frankfurt, ex TBB Trier forward Brian Harper scored on a running hook shot and Adams tossed up the perfect ally-op pass that ex Giessen guard Anthony Smith dunked home. However Frankfurt collected themselves and hustled back into the game ending the first quarter with an 8-2 run to cut the Bremerhaven lead to 21-18. Burtschi and Quantez Robertson scored back to back coast to coast lay ups coming off Bremerhaven turnovers, and Jarred Dubois hit a runner. “Derrick Allen really got Bremerhaven going. I felt both teams had problems coming back on transition defense”, stressed Dane Watts. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 50% from the field and 0% form outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 47% from the field and 29% from outside. Bremerhaven had the big 12-5 rebound edge and both teams had three turnovers a piece.

The second quarter was very tight as there were seven lead changes and nobody could take advantage of it as both teams went into the break dead locked at 39-39. Frankfurt retook the lead as some role players took control. Aziz Ndiaye had some luck as a Jacob Burtschi shot was blocked, but reached the big man which he layed home and little used German Stefan Ilzhoefer nailed a three pointer from the parking lot as Frankfurt led 23-22. Then in a matter of minutes there were four lead changes as Adams took over showing his immense basketball talent hitting contested jumpers and then tip toeing between the two guards and then somehow sneaking home a lay in past Barthel and Ndiaye. Frankfurt got production via a Robertson three pointer and Burtschi runner, but Bremerhaven still led 29-28. Frankfurt retook the lead with the seventh lead change of the game as they went on a 8-0 run to lead 36-30 as Barthel and Bright dropped back to back three pointers and Dubois hit an off balance shot. However Frankfurt was unable to find consistency in their game and take the momentum into halftime as they allowed the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven to close out the second quarter 9-3. American Devin  Searcy scored inside, hit free throws as did Juskevicious and Adams nailed a tough shot over Super Tez as he made a stutter step and fell back with the Skyliner in the face, but catching nothing but net. “Adams kept them going and we forced them too tough shots and they ahd problems getting back on transition defense”, stated Dane Watts. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 52% from the field and 33% from the three point line while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 47% from the field and 14% from the three point line. Bremerhaven had the 17-13 rebound advantage and both teams suffered six turnovers a piece.

In the third quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were able to break away from the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven leading 60-53 after 30 minutes. The Eisbaeren did get on the board first retaking the lead 42-39 with a Brian Harper three pointer. However Frankfurt responded going on a 5-0 run to lead 44-42 as Klein scored inside and Robertson nailed a three pointer. The lead was quickly erased with another step back jumper from Adams over Tez as the game was tied 44-44. Johannes Voigtmann then took matters into his own hands scoring five unanswered points scoring with a lay in and then on the fast break as the trailer and Klein added on to the run with a three pointer as Frankfurt led 52-44. Allen then converted a 15 foot jumper and Barthel scored inside as Frankfurt still led 54-46. Then came perhaps the prettiest play by Jacob Burtschi as he penetrated and found big man Ndiaye with the underhand pass for the massive dunk as Frankfurt led 56-46 having their biggest lead of the contest. However Bremerhaven continued to chip away at the Frankfurt lead as Harper connected on an open three pointer and Smith scored inside. Burtschi hit some free throws in the last minute as Frankfurt led 60-53. “We stopped attacking and started taking jumpers. When we did get inside, we had problems making free throws. We had problems executing without Adas Juskevicious who was hurt. We had problems with play calling and decisions”, stated Calvin Oldham. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 52% from the field and 37% from the parking lot while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 41% from the field and 23% from the parking lot. Bremerhaven had the 27-21 rebound advantage, but nine turnovers while Frankfurt had eight turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven had a little energy left in their gas tank at the start to make a run, but Frankfurt was too potent extending their lead again as the opponent had cut it down to two points. Bremerhaven came out roaring in the fourth quarter going on a 5-0 run as Allen scored inside and Adams and Harper made free throws as the Frankfurt lead had dwindled down to 60-58. Frankfurt then decided the game with a 8-0 run to lead 68-58 as they made two spectacular plays in a row led by German Johannes Voigtmann. On the first play with the shot clock at one second, he took an off balance three pointer that went in and then showed his passing qualities once again as Harlem Globetrotter basketball was in the house as he made a no look pass behind to Robertson who made the lay in. Adams then gave Bremerhaven a little more daylight with a bomb from outside, but Bright quickly erased any last hopes with an off balance shot as Frankfurt led 71-61. Searcy and Burtschi then made free throws and Smith made the last bucket of the game as Marius Nolte left the floor as a winner. “We had bad shot selection, Frankfurt rebounded better an dhit some last second shots and in the second half, they wanted it more than we did”, warned Derrick Allen. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Quantez Robertson with 15 points. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were led by Darius Adams with 23 points. Derrick Allen contributed with 12 points. Anthony Smith added 11 points and Brian Harper 11 points. Frankfurt shot better than Bremerhaven at 48% from the field and 33% from outside to the 38% from the field and 22% from outside for Bremerhaven. Frankfurt came back to win the rebound duel 35-34. Frankfurt had 14 turnovers and Bremerhaven 11 turnovers. Alba Berlin welcomes the Fraport Skyliners May 1^st for the last game of the season.

Kris Douse is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Toronto, Canada  playing for  EVL-Baskets Limburg (Germany-Regionalliga) this season. He played at Laurinburg (N.C.) Institute while Fraport Skyliner Quantez Robertson played at Laurinburg (N.C.) prep. He started his college career at  Nebraska (NCAA) and then played two seasons at Delaware State. As a senior he played at Point Park (NAIA) playing  27 games: 20.1ppg, 12.6rpg. In 2011-2012 he started his professional basketball career at  Liverpool Mersey Tigers (United Kingdom-BBL, starting five): 18 games: 15.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 13.6%, FT: 54.6%; then agreed terms with Keflavik (Iceland-Express League): 6 games: 9.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 44.7%, FT: 69%. Last season he played for Turi Svitavy (Czech Republic-NBL): 2 games: 0pts, left in Oct.’12, in Nov.’12 moved to BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 17 games: 14.1ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3Pts: 10.0%, FT: 50.4%. He spoke to German Hoops after season ending win against Mainz.

 

 

Kris congrats on winning your last game of the year at home against Mainz. What was key for getting the victory against the seventh ranked team?

 

We were ready for the fast tempo and it was to our liking. We are a very athletic team and with the addition of Antoni Miller, it really helped us to play fast. It was a lot of fun to go out and run when you have a guy like him on the team.

 

You were averaging 26 ppg coming into your last Regionaliga game and you put up 31 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Was this another day at the office?

 

I scored 40 against Giessen last weekend and was starting to get into a groove. It is only too bad that the season ended today.

 

What really caught my attention was that the majority of your points comes very close to the basket. You use your athletic ability to your advantage. Was this just the best way how you could get baskets in the Regionaliga or why didn´t one see more shooting from the mid distance or more of a variety to get points?

 

My game is suited to scoring and in this league I can use my basketball IQ best. It is simple for me to get to the rim and if I can do it each time then I will. In this league I do what works best and that is scoring at the rim. I am all about being efficient.

 

In the past you played in England and the Czech Republic and last year for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). How would you summarize your season and experience playing for VFL Limburg?

 

My experience playing for Limburg was good. Coach Danny Stahllbohm gave me  a lot of freedom. I wanted to develop my game further this year and I feel I did. I played at 15-20 pounds lighter this season. I would have liked to have won more, but I felt as a player I achieved what was expected of me.

 

VFL Limburg had a very disappointing season landing in 13^th place. What were the main reasons for the subpar season?

 

We had many injuries from the start and when you are in a situation like that you get that snowball effect on the whole team. However I commend the whole team, because it wasn´t easy, but we got through the season.

 

VFL Limburg lost American Ronald Howard mid way through the season. Would the club have had more success had he stayed on board?

 

I know we would have had a better season with him. We were missing that point guard to set up the scorers. We had  a lot of scorers and not having that point guard took a lot from our game.

 

I was really impressed by Antoni Miller who played only two games. It looked like you had a lot of fun playing with him on the court.

 

I liked his game a lot. He was a rookie and you could see how hungry he was. I loved his energy and athletic ability. He really pulled up the speed of our game. When we run with him, good things happen. I feel that he can play at a higher level.

 

What is the next step for Kris Douse?

 

I will continue to train this summer and wait for the next opportunity. I won´t change anything. I think that with my training regime, I had my best season as a professional.

 

If someone had told you before the start of the 2013-2014 NBA season that Toronto Raptors would be one of the best teams in the east would you have believed them?

 

I always have faith in my team. They have good talent at the wings and at the center position with the Lithuanian player. I always root for the home team. We have a lot of pride in Toronto.

 

Were you surprised that UConn won the 2014 NCAA title?

 

I didn´t follow college basketball so much this season, but UConn has a great program. They have always had a winning tradition. They know how to win, so it didn´t surprise me.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Ride Along with Kevin Hart and Ice T. A very funny movie.

 

Thanks Kris for the chat.

Ahmad Smith is a 29 year old 194cm guard from Virginia that is playing his second season for the Rent4Office of the German PRO A. He started the season BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProA)12 games: 7.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.7apg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 72.2%, in Jan.’13 moved to Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProA, starting five): 19 games: 9.6ppg, Reb-4(8.5rpg), Assists-2(6.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 35.5%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 77.6% He played at St.Bonaventure(NCAA) from 2002-2006 and in his senior year played 28 games: ScoreA10-8(14.2ppg), RebA10-10(6.2rpg), AssistsA10-9(3.5apg), FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 59.8%. In 2006-2007, he played for Mardyke UCC Demons Cork (Ireland-SuperLeague): 9 games: 18.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 60.8%. In 2007-2008, he played for SVD 49 Dortmund (Regionalliga): 6 games: 30.2ppg. In 2008-2009, he played for : BSV Wulfen (Germany-Regionalliga) 23.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 6.0apg, 3PT: 35.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for Hertener Loewen (Germany-ProB)29 games: 18.2ppg, Reb-2(8.7rpg), Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA): left before the season started, then moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Germany-Regionalliga): 6 games: 12.8ppg, waived in Nov.’10, in Jan.’11 signed at Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProB, starting five): 15 games: 8.3ppg, 6.8rpg, Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 69.1%. Last season for the Kichheim Knights he played  35 games: 9.9ppg, 6.1rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 62.0% He spoke to German Hoops Before game three against Crailsheim.

A tough 82-88 loss in game two. How well have you digested this loss?

I try not to get too high or low during the playoffs because of the short turn around in games. So it’s on to the next one.

How bitter was losing this game at home? With a win, you could be up 2-0 and go back to Crailsheim to seal the series.

We always take pride in winning in front of our home crowd especially in the playoffs.

In the fourth quarter, the game was tied 57-57 and Crailsheim took the lead and would never trail again. The game stayed tight, but Rent4office just could regain the lead. What was key at the end for Crailsheim winning on the road?

We didn’t make key plays and they did. Our defense wasn’t good enough in the fourth quarter.

You shot better as a team from outside and had 18 team assists. Does this give the team added self confidence going into Crailsheim to get a second straight win on the road?

We feel we had a chance to win not playing our best basketball. This gives us confidence going into  game three

X and o´s become  second nature and effort and heart and what else will determine game three?

Minimizing mistakes and knowing your strengths and weaknesses and what got you to this point.

BG Goettingen lead 2-0. Do you see any chance of Giessen forcing a game four?

Goettingen hasn’t lost at home all season so it will be tough. But anything is possible.

There are five 1-1 series in the NBA playoffs. Which series has surprised you the most?

The two 8 seeds winning on the road surprised me.

Why did the New York Knicks have a poor season? Would a guy like Carmelo Anthony be good seeing a change of scenery?

They had some key injuries early and fell too deep in the standings. Yeah I feel Carmelo should leave if he wants to win a championship soon.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Meet the Fockers.

Thanks Ahmad for the chat.