BBL

Jemarl Baker(Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) Learned Severe Mental Toughness Playing At 4 NCAA Schools And Has A Rare NBA Connection

New Eisbaeren Bremerhaven guard Jemarl Baker Jr. (195-G-1998, college: N.Mexico) isn´t your typical American balling overseas. For one it isn´t everyday that you will see a 27 year old in only his second professional season, second he played at 4 different NCAA schools and third his NBA connection is wild. That crazy NBA connection becomes very apparent when you read his 5 favorite teammates of all-time. It is a standard question I give ballers in my interviews. I either get a list of not unknown players, or a list of somewhat well known players, or a mashed together list of unknown and maybe one known player sometimes an NBA player. But the list that Baker Jr gave me was probably a top 5 or maybe top 3 list that I have ever seen. His list was of Shai Gillgeous-Alexander, PJ Washington, Kevin Knox, Tyler Herro, and Keldon Johnson. A list like that will come when you played at Kentucky and Arizona. In 3 years at those schools he had those guys to chose from as well as these with Aashton Hagins, Immanuel Quickly, Nick Richards, Zeke Naji, Nico Mannion, Josh Green, Christian Koloko, Bennedict Mathurin, and Dalen Terry. He also played at Fresno State University and lastly at the University of New Mexico where his NBA connection continued where he was teammates with JT Toppin, the younger brother of NBA player OBI and with Jamal Washburn son of the great NBA player. When he looks back at his NCAA career, was this NBA connection something he enjoyed then or is something he is thankful now knowing he had it or something that doesn´t faze him at all? “It didn’t really faze me while I was playing. We’re all just regular friends that enjoy ourselves on and off the court. They’re regular people just like anybody else and they’ll continue to be my friends for the rest of my life”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.

Jemarl Baker who lists his dad as the person that influenced him most in his life hails from Menifee, California and comes from a sporty family as father played basketball at Cal State Northridge and his sister Anyia played basketball at Grand Canyon University. He began his basketball career at Roosevelt High School in California. He then went to the University of Kentucky and was a red shirt freshman. He may of not played that season, but already there his NBA connection commenced as he witnessed the play of Hamidou Diallo, Wenyen Gabriel, and Jarred Vanderrbilt. He finally played the next season playing 28 games averaging 2,3ppg in 9,1 minutes per game. It isn´t everyday that you can be coached by legend John Calipari. “My time at Kentucky was great. Learning from Coach Cal every day and competing at the highest level in practice made me significantly better. Playing at Kentucky was a dream come true and it was everything I thought it would be”, stressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He helped the Wild Cats reach the Elite 8 and had solid games of 7 and 8 points against Abil Christian and Wofford at March Madness. So what was it like being teammates with so many future NBA players and does he still have contact to some today? “They all had a big impact on my life, I can’t single out one player. We had a great time in practice making each other better and we were all great friends off the court as well. Our teams were very close. You almost have to be close-knit in order to be so young and have success in college. We all still talk from time to time on social media”, commented Jemarl Baker Jr.. His NCAA journey then continued to the University of Arizona where he played 32 games in his first season averaging 5.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 82.6% while his second season was cut short due to injury despite him averaging 12.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 83.3%. “Going into my second year I was really focusing on my development and taking on a bigger role. In life everything is about taking advantage of your opportunity when it presents itself and that’s what I tried to do in my second year. Unfortunately it got cut short with an injury but I enjoyed played for Coach Miller and I learned a lot from him”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some really promising explosions at Arizona scoring 33 points against NAU and 29 points against Stanford. Who knows where that season may have taken him had he played more?

The California native who list NBA player Keldon Johnson as the toughest player that he faced in the NCAA then made another move going to Fresno State University (NCAA) averaging 8.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 90.9% and in his second season averaged 12.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 75.8%. He had injury woes in his first season, but didn´t disappoint in his second season despite playing hurt. “I tore my meniscus after playing five games in my first season at Fresno State and going into my second year I was battling through some chronic knee pain but still trying to give my all for the team. That year was my most challenging year, not being able to move the way I wanted, but still trying to perform at a high level. Thankfully Coach Hut gave me the opportunity to showcase myself through the adversity and it ended up being a solid year”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some incredible games in his last season, but none better than his 13/14 shooting clinic against Chicago State where he netted 43 points and 10/11 three´s and also contributed 5 rebounds and 7 dimes. Does he think about that game often? “I think about that game a lot actually. As a player it’s good to remember your best great performances to get inspiration and remember what you’re capable of. Hopefully I’ll have another game like that soon. I wish I could have that kind of game every night”, smiled Jemarl Baker Jr.. He made one more stop at the University of New Mexico, but had growing pains averaging 4.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0apg His minutes shrunk von 31 at Frenso State to only 17 minutes. “I was dealing with chronic knee pain this year as well. It was difficult, knowing what I’m capable of when I’m healthy but knowing that I couldn’t perform at the level I wanted to. It ended up being worth it winning a mountain west conference championship though and I might so many great people during my time there”, expressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He had some fine performances there under head coach Richard Pitino scoring 18 points against Louisiana Tech and 17 points against Santa Clara both in wins. “Coach Pitino taught me to be confident in myself no matter what the circumstances are and always remember who I am and what I’m capable of”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. So how key was having this vast experience in the NCAA playing for 4 different schools? “It was very vital for my development. I would say for my mental toughness more than anything else. I went through a lot of ups and downs with injuries in college and it was mentally draining. Learning how to deal with that mentally, by staying positive and keeping my focus on the big picture really helped me”, warned Jemarl Baker Jr. who remembers never playing 1-1 against teammate Isaac Mushila, but was certain he would of won if they played.

The explosive shooter who names Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore played his rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen). Every American has a wake up call to being a rookie overseas and it wasn´t any different with him. “Being away from family and friends for so long was a real wake-up call. Trying to find hobbies outside of basketball was important to keep my mind occupied with so much free time”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.. He didn´t disappoint as a rookie averaging 14.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 74.7%. He got his first taste to overseas playoffs as he helped eliminate the Randers in 4 games, but lost in 4 games to top Danish team Bakken in the final. “ Bakken did a good job of exploiting our weaknesses defensively and we didn’t have an answer for it. I’ll learn from it and make sure I’m better when the opportunity to win a championship presents itself again”, remembered Jemarl Baker Jr.. That season he scored in double figures in 21 games and had an incredible 40 points against Naestved shooting 15/21 and 8/11 from outside. “They got the scoresheet wrong on some outlets, I actually had 43 that game but yes I think that game against Naestved was my best game. Simply because we were the top two teams in the league at that point and it was a really big game. I remember people doubting us going into the game, and I was locked in. I got a rhythm early, got in my zone and wanted to do whatever was necessary to win”, stated Jemarl Baker. He now has a new challenge in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He doesn´t know much about Germany and it´s basketball, but is learning. “My teammates have taught me quite a bit about the food, places to visit, and of course what to expect from basketball during the season”, added Jemarl Baker Jr.. After a strong season in Denmark, he is now looking to make the next step and got some good advice from a coach who once was an assistant with the Tigers Tuebingen. “The main reasons were the culture and play-style that Coach Steve has built since taking the job here. Tom Walther, my assistant coach last year in Denmark, had a lot of great things to say about the club when I asked him what he thought about the offer. Hearing great info from somebody I trust made my decision easy, and I’m glad I took his advice, my first two weeks with the club have been great”, stressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. He is really looking forward to playing for players coach Steve Esterkamp. “My talks with coach were great. I enjoy how fast we play and the freedom that he gives his players to create and make decisions”, said Jemarl Baker Jr. who will never watch the sequel to the classic Coming To America as he feels classics should be left alone.

So what kind of a player are people in Germany seeing from Jemarl Baker Jr. who lists Kobe Bryant as his GOAT. For a guy who has watched a lot of players and been teammates with so many NBA guys, he isn´t keen on pinpointing that NBA comparison on his game. “ I’m not sure if I have an NBA comparison. Growing up I tried to add little pieces of different NBA players’ bag and create my own skill-set. I believe my game is unique and I can do a lot of things on the court that impact winning”, warned Jemarl Baker Jr.. That he can shoot out the lights is no secret and shooting is his biggest weapon, but he can also do many other things on the court. It will be interesting to see how much of an impact his shooting will have in the Pro A in Germany. Currently he is averaging 11/1/2/1 sttas and shooting 29% from outside. He shot the ball really well the last 2 seasons with 38% at New Mexico and 36% in Demark. What does he need to do to reach the 40% mark? “ I need to be more consistent with my mechanics will help me shoot over 40% from three this year”, said Jemarl Baker Jr.. But he can also be a pest on the defensive end. “As a defender I’m fundamentally sound on defense. I´m not a person that gambles for too many steals but making sure I’m in the right spots off the ball and forcing my opponent into his weaknesses on the ball”, commented Jemarl Baker Jr.. But he doesn´t want to be labelled just as a shoot out the lights player. He continues to grind on areas so he can be as versatile as possible on the court. “I´m working on my finishing at the rim for sure. I’m a big guard and finishing at the rim at a high level will and an element to my game”, stressed Jemarl Baker. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop in the German Pro A. Being near water is something that he enjoys coming from Los Angeles and playing in Svenborg last season and now is near water again in Bremerhaven. “I love being by the water. From time to time, I’ll go sit by the water and reset. It’s always been a peaceful place for me to think about life and keep myself grounded”expressed Jemarl Baker Jr.. One thing is for sure that he will be able to entertain his teammates about his NBA connections all season long.

Versatile Taje Kelly(BBC Bayreuth) Is A Mix Of An Old School Paul Milsap And A Modern Day Julius Randle

Taje Kelly (203-F/C) is a 203cm forward from Georgia playing his rookie season in Germany with BBC Bayreuth. He began his basketball career at Grayson high school. He then played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) from 2021-2025 playing a total of 120 NCAA games. He was able to improve his scoring average each season and as a senior averaged 20.3ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 61.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Taje for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. How excited are you to begin your basketball career overseas with BBC Bayreuth?

I am really excited and blessed to have the opportunity to start my career off in Germany, as it is one of my dream countries to live in and I feel I will have great success here.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I do not know much about Germany besides some old history and pretzels. I do know that Germany is very competitive in European basketball though.

One ex Charleston Southern University player Phlandrous Fleming balled in Germany last season. Did you ask him for any advice?

No I did not but I definitely will.

What was the deciding factor that allowed you to make the decision to join BBC Bayreuth? They also are rich in basketball history. Florian Wedel stated that you were the clubs the absolute desired player that they wanted.

I feel that they would give me the best opportunity to show off my skills while winning games. Also I built a good relationship with the head coach and just felt like a proactive decision.

How did the first talks go with head coach Florian Wedel? What did you appreciate right away about his basketball philosophy?

First talks felt really naturally, he expressed their interest in me and how they viewed me in their system. I appreciated the honesty he portrayed and the ways they said I could be used in the system to help bring home some wins.

You had a great career at Charleston Southern University and was player of the year in the All Big South Conference. How confident are you that your game will translate to the German Pro A?

I am real confident that my game will transfer because I will not only bring my skills that I have already but I will add new skills to my game.

Are you a guy that will watch videos of BBC Bayreuth and the Pro A to be best prepared when you arrive in Germany?

Yes

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Probably and old school Paul Milsap with the ceiling of a modern day Julius Randle

You’re a modern day big man. Your also a very versatile player. Talk about how your versatility has developed in the NCAA?

I feel like I was more of a small ball traditional big up until my senior year then I moved to more of a four man who could bring it in transition and make a play. I feel my biggest growth in versatility has been through playing slower and my decision making and passing.

Your three pointer is something you have used more in the last 2 years. It rose in shots taken from 38 to 59. How would you describe your 3 pointer now coming overseas. Is it still a work in progress?

I would say my best 3 ball hasn´t been displayed yet so definitely a work in progress.

Talk a bit about your defensive game. You never averaged more than 0,5spg in a season in the NCAA. Stats don´t tell the whole story. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to be become?

I feel that I am a smart defender, my defense may not load the stat sheet but I am able to make people miss shots, I have good fundamentals and I am able to switch onto any person onto the floor.

Your also have a big IQ. What other strength do you have that you believe is still a bit off the radar?

Passing

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you will be able to continue to improve your game?

Passing, ball handling, defense, shooting

You played at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) having a great career. You improved your scoring and rebounding average each season. How did your game develop there? What kind of player were you coming in and what kind of player when you left?

I feel my game developed as my confidence grew, coming in I didn´t know what to expect but coming out have the upmost confidence in my game.

You finished your freshman year strong having 24 points in a big 79-78 win over UNC Asheville. What memories do you have of this game?

I remember taking over the final stretch of the game and hitting the game winner and rolling my ankle directly after.

In your next 3 seasons you lost to UNC Asheville all 3 times in the All Big South tournament games. Is that opponent one you will never forget?

Definitely will not

You had many incredible games in the NCAA including 28 points in a thrilling 71-70 win over Presbyterian. What was your fondest moment on the court?

I would say my freshman year buzzer beater against Asheville

What will you always remember from teammate Daylen Berry? He came from UNC at Charlotte averaging only 1,6ppg in 23-24 and broke out last season at Charleston. He also had a versatile game.

His ability to play at his size and be that efficient also his knack for passing lanes.

How did head coaches Barclay Radebaugh and Saah Nimley groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

He taught me how to be the guy and poured their confidence in me consistently. Also loads of defensive practices.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or RJ Duhart?

Me 100%

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

Jabari Smith

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Deivon Smith

Caleb Murphy

Rj Johnson

Ian Schiefflien

Claudell Harris Jr

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph, Tim Duncan

Who is your Goat?

Lebron

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

No I did not

Thanks Taje for the chat.

Jalen Brooks(Salon Vilpas) Is A Dog On The Court That Does What He Can To Give His Team A Chance To Win

Jalen Brooks (196-F-1999, college: LSUS) is a 24 year old 196cm forward from Baton Rouge, Louisiana that is a professional player playing overseas playing his third pro season and first with Salon Vilpas (Finland-Korisliiga) currently averaging 17,5ppg, 9,5rpg, 2,0apg, 1,6spg and 1,0bs. Last season he played with BBC Nyon (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 21.6ppg, Reb-2 (11.3rpg), 1.8apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 69.9%. He played his rookie season with the Shreveport Bossier Knights (ABA) and Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia-Liga) averaging 15.8ppg, Reb-4 (8.5rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 53.8%. He began his basketball career at Woodlawn high school and then played 4 seasons at Southern Arkansas University (NCAA2). He then finished at Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 22.5ppg, 11.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 68.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Jalen for talking to eurobasket.com. You completed your second pro season overseas and first with BBC Nyon (Switzerland-SBL) averaging 21.6ppg), Reb-2 (11.3rpg), 1.8apg, Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 69.9%. How good was the feeling of breaking out and having an incredible season after your tough rookie season?

The feeling was mind blowing I knew what I was capable of but coming back after the injury was next level I really loved playing for the team and supporters in Switzerland.

You had signed with BBC Nyon in 2023 for that season, but didn´t play. Weren´t you mentally ready then? What exactly happened in your first tour of duty?

My first year was like a bittersweet moment been so far from home for the first time but also experiencing a new culture and way of living. I was playing in a friendly game (scrimmage) where I tipped the ball to get a steal so I go to save the ball from going out of bounds and my leg just extended back causing me to tear my meniscus in my left knee.

How tough was not playing there where your brother Devante had once played?

It was tough but the club made it easy for me because of my brother they welcomed me as if I was there before many players and my opponents knew him as well so it was a full circle moment where I just had to get comfortable.

You had a great 24-25 season. You left off from your great NAIA season. How did your game grow another step in Switzerland?

Switzerland helped me see the court better it gave me a better way to approach the game. If it’s finding a way to help my team win or finding a way to score and get my teammates open.

You helped BBC Nyon reach the playoffs, but got swept by Massagno in the playoffs. You had 2 explosive games in game 2 and 3, but your team was beat badly. What did you learn about yourself and the game in the last 2 games?

I learned that if I want to avoid that next time I should take more control and be more of an leader to a group of young guys like that. The last 2 games I changed my mindset to attack mode which only helped me as a player not my team so yes I have to learn to get my team going as well.

You had many great games last season including some 30 point games. What was your fondest moment on the court with BBC Nyon last season?

My fondest moment on the court was the Swiss Cup game we just came back from 20 against a good Pully team to get there and it was everything the coaches talked about even though we lost the experience was mind blowing we fought until the buzzer one of the funniest games I had the pleasure of playing.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare I’ll say my game is like a Josh Hart type of playing where I can play on both sides of the ball grab rebounds and get steals just a dog on the court who does what he can to give his team a chance to win.

The first thing that really stands out in your game is your scoring and rebounding. What other assets does your game incorporate?

Yes I’m a type of player that the little things I do don’t show up on the stat sheet but I´m great at reading the game getting in passing lanes and just being athletic while being a vocal leader on the court if I need to set the tone for the team that’s what I’m for even if that’s taking a charge getting a stop or if that’s dunking the ball giving my team momentum for the game I’m just a player who does what it takes to win giving us extra possession on the offensive glass just whatever it takes.

You’re an incredible rebounder for your height. What is your secret? Simply effort?

I don’t think there’s no secret some people say the ball falls right in my hands where I say it’s just the effort and the will to just go after it. It’s one of the talent and gifts God bless me with it’s a great advantage for the game.

Is it fair to say that your three pointer is still a work in progress? Is it just reps that will help you improve or are you always thinking of other ways like mechanics in trying to help it get better?

It’s just reps and mentally getting stronger. My shoulder always gave me problems where I was undecided to shot or not at any moment it just started back with the pain. I had talks with my physio about it and he said I just need to get my shoulder muscles stronger. I feel I’m a great 3pt shooter just didn’t have a fair chance to show case it yet but I been working on my shoulder and preparing for the next season

Your also a very aggressive defender. Talk a little about what kind of a defender do are right now and what kind of defender that you still want to become?

I’m a good on ball defender but I’m a great off ball defender if that makes sense I like to get in passing lanes help defense coming over blocking shots instead of a good on ball defender I want to be an elite defender just a pest on ball.

On what areas of your game are you still working on most now so you can improve your game?

Ball handling shooting and just the IQ for the game knowing when to shoot attack or find the open teammate.

You played your rookie season with Corsarios Cartagena (Colombia-Liga Wplay) averaging 15.8ppg, Reb-4 (8.5rpg), 1.6apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 53.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

The coach only spoke Spanish so everything had to be translated to me literally everything and there were only two players who could translate what he was telling me. Some teammates on the court couldn’t communicate with me because they didn’t know English and I couldn’t understand what they were trying to tell me because I didn’t know any Spanish at that moment I knew I was far away from home. I couldn’t understand nothing at all but I managed to get through with the little I did know.

What kind of an experience was Columbia basketball wise. How would you rate the league? Many Americans like playing there.

It was a great experience especially coming back after my injury I like the league very competitive great fans and supporters the atmosphere was definitely next level good teams from top to bottom.

How valuable was it having a guy like RJ Gunn as a teammate? He was a young buck like you who also played NCAA 2, but has reached a high level now in Europe in Germany?

It was valuable. He came in with his scoring and athleticism to help the team win some tough games even though I didn’t play many games with him definitely enjoyed sharing the court with him he knows how to win.

You have experience also playing in the ABA? That has got to be a tough grind? Is that everybody for themselves trying to do anything to reach a higher league?

Yes you can say that I played a game or 2 just to get my rhythm back after finishing up my recovery. It was definitely a grind most of the players on the team I kind of had an idea who they were two of them I actually grew up with so I just used it to get the feeling back for the game and see where it was on the court before going back overseas

You played at Southern Arkansas University (NCAA2) from 2018-2022 where you were very consistent in 105 games. How valuable were these years in your basketball development under head coach Andy Sharpe? How did he elevate your game to the next level?

It was very valuable teaching me the defensive principles of the game which helped me become a much better defender and he also had me communicating more on and off the court. He just put us in position to win and finish close games. Coach Sharpe gave me that defense DNA that’s what he was all about.

You had many great achievements at SAU like reaching the GAC final and other great games. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment was winning freshman of the year. It was a great accomplishment for me after overcoming a lot in the beginning of the year and with me coming in on a team that was full of vets and already established.

You then took a step back and played at Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 22.5ppg, 11.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.1%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 68.8%. Why did you go from a NCAA 2 school to a NAIA school? You had 2 reasons for doing this. Was this a classic move of taking a step back to move 2 steps forward?

I wanted something different. Coach Kyle had been recruiting me since Highschool and I always saw great players succeed under him players like Jeff Garret and Coach Dp. I would say it was definitely a classic move without my season at Lsus I doubt I would even be playing overseas so I’m thankful for that moment. I’m a firm believer in everything happens for a reason.

You became a classic scorer at LSU at Shreveport after being more of a defender and hustler at SAU. How did your game grow in your last season?

Since highschool I was a scorer when I went to college they already had scores like my brother Devante Brooks one of the elite scores. I knew I had to do something different if I wanted to be on the court with him I had to help out in a different way so I mainly focused on defense. When I left there I wanted to find a team where I can showcase my full game and strength so I went to LSUS where a Shreveport native and Hall of Fame Coach Blankenship put the ball in my hands and trusted in me to lead a team full of new players. I had the opportunity to be a leader teammate scorer and defender all in one season I felt like a complete player.

You reached the NAIA Sweet 16. What do you remember of that run and from the tough loss against Idaho College?

I remember the great tournament games leading on to the sweet 16 my teammates stepping up and leading the way unfortunately we faced a good team that was more familiar with each other and knew how to win.

You had so many great games, but was your 38/15/3/4/5 in the win over Xavier LA one of your best and fondest

Yes that’s was definitely one of the best games thus far in my career by far still a unbelievable stat line I think that game just showcased my all around game in what I’m capable of doing.

How valuable was head coach Kyle Blankenship for you? Is it fair to say that he gave you the keys to the team in 2022-2023?

Coach Blankenship was one of kind I still thank him for the opportunity till this day. It’s absolutely fair to say he gave me the keys and I hope I didn’t let him down. I played every game until the end doing whatever it took to get us the win.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Stacey Thomas?

Me and Stacy didn’t play to much 1 on 1 but I think he know I’d win hahaha.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?

One of the toughest players was hands down Jared Butler.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Devante Brooks

Willie Reed

Cj Elkins

Telvin Thomas

Tra’micheal Moton

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kevin Durant

Michael Jordan

Stephen Curry

LeBron James

Who is your GOAT?

Kevin Durant

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

Yes I saw it I definitely think they should leave it alone

Thanks Jalen for the chat.

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 8

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Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.

Congrats on another crunch-time win this time over Braunschweig 67–63. Bargteheide has now won 3 of their last 4 games in crunch time. How has the team grown in the last 4 games?

Over the last four games we’ve really matured in terms of composure. Earlier in the season, tight moments sometimes sped us up or made us lose focus, but lately we’ve been embracing those situations instead of fearing them. Our communication has improved, our defensive rotations are sharper, and we’ve started trusting each other more in late-game execution. That belief that we can grind out a win, even when things aren’t pretty, has definitely grown.

How good does it feel to win when you only shot 21% from outside and had 21 turnovers as a team?

It feels great because it proves we can still win when everything is not going our way. Shooting that poorly from three and turning the ball over that much—normally that’s a recipe for a long night. But we stayed locked in defensively and kept fighting. Winning a game like that shows our toughness, and it’s the kind of win that builds character going forward.

Talk about the 40 minutes against Braunschweig. Was it tight throughout, or were there stretches where either team pulled ahead?

It was mostly tight throughout. Both teams had small runs here and there, but nothing that blew the game open. Every time one side tried to create separation, the other answered right back. It felt like a chess match—physical, defensive, and all about who could maintain focus the longest. That’s why the game came down to crunch time.

Talk about the crunch-time period. What was key in the last minute for getting the win?

Discipline and execution. In the last minute we finally settled down, got the stops we needed, and made sure we got a good look offensively instead of rushing things. Defensively we communicated well on switches, and offensively we trusted the spacing and hit the free throws and shots that mattered. It wasn’t perfect, but it was poised.

You had another great scoring game with 32 points but 6 turnovers. How annoying were those 6 turnovers? There is always room to improve every week.

Yeah, the 6 turnovers definitely bother me. As a primary ball handler and someone who has the ball a lot, I know I have to be sharper. Some of them were forced plays, some were just careless. The scoring is nice, but the turnovers stick with me more because I know they could’ve cost us in a close game. So it’s something I’ll keep working on, staying under control, reading the defense, and valuing every possession.

Your three-pointer this season is still a work in progress. Are you mixing anything up with your shooting to improve besides just getting up reps?

Besides reps, I’m focusing a lot on consistency, same release, same footwork, same balance every time. I’ve also been working more on game-speed shots, not just stationary reps. Another thing is watching film to see if my shot selection is helping or hurting my rhythm. And I’m spending time on mental routines: breathing, resetting, and staying confident even after misses. It’s a process, but I feel it coming along.

The next game is against 8–4 Stade. This will be another tough battle. What will be key to getting the win?

Stade is disciplined, physical, and plays at a high pace, so the keys are going to be taking care of the ball and controlling the defensive glass. We can’t afford to give them extra possessions. Offensively we need to stay patient, move the ball, and attack their rotations instead of settling. And since it’ll likely be another close game, maintaining our defensive intensity for all 40 minutes will be huge. If we stay united and execute, we’ll give ourselves a real chance to come out with the win.

Thanks Toru for the chat.

Israeli National Player Khadeen Carrington Could Imagine Being A Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem Lifer

Pic credit: Israeli basket/Fiba

Khadeen Carrington is a 30 year old 193 cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that has the American/Trinidad and Tobago citizenship and plays for the Israeli national team. He began his basketball career at Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School and then played at Seton Hall(NCAA) from 2014-2018. He began his pro career in 2018 and has played in countries like Montenegro, Belgium, Germany, Spain, France and Israel. Currently he is in his fourth season with Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (Israel-Winner League). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a World Cup qualifying game against Germany.

Thanks Khadeen for talking to germanhoops.com. Happy Thanksgiving. You have been overseas 8 years now. How relevant can you make this national holiday overseas?

It´s tough being away from family and friends at this time of the year. But I have a job to do and am very grateful that I´m allowed to paly the game that I love. I have had tough times in my career, but am blessed to be able to play the game.

You have been playing for the Israeli national team now for some time. What kind of an experience has it been as an American playing for Israel?

It has been fun. The whole 4 years. I definitely have some special relations with some guys. It has been a great experience playing Eurocup and playing against some of the best players overseas.

You battle against Germany.  How excited are to be playing against the world and euro champions? Is there a German player that you admire?

I have to be honest that there isn´t anyone particular. I have watched Dennis Schroeder. It was great seeing how the German team has developed over the years especially when I was with Ludwigsburg. Germany has a good foundation and the coaches have done a great job with the talent.

At the last Euro you averaged 7.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 32.0%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 62.5%. What exactly is your role and what is your biggest personal goal with your game in the team besides winning games?

My role changes a bit. During the Fiba tournaments, there are more guys on the team and now during the Fiba windows, my role is bigger. During the windows, I just be aggressive and play my game. I show my scoring and give pressure on the defensive end. I feel like I could have been better at the last Euro, but I will be aggressive in these next 2 games.

After your first four professional seasons, you went to Israel in 2022 and are now in your fourth season with  Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (Israel-Winner League). Could you see yourself being a lifer here?

Yes definitely. I have found a great place with Hapoel and Israel. We will see how my journey continues here.

What is so special about this organization? Do you have the perfect combo of club and lifestyle in one?

Yes it is the perfect combination. It was tough not having the home games because of the war. It is the perfect combination between lifestyle, club and basketball.

In your first season in Israel you beat Maccabi Tel Aviv and scored 20 points. How big was that win for you then and what do you remember from it?

I think so. I understood how important an organization they were. It was huge competing against such a well known club and great players. That was start of something special with the Hapoel organization.

You reached the Basketball Champions League final in 2023. You had 19 points in an exciting 69-68 win over Tenerife, but lost the final to Bonn 77-70. Was that thrilling semi-final win like your final?

I think that semi-final was like our final. That game against Tenerife took a lot out of us. We had some guys sick in the final including myself. Bonn was in a good flow that game.

You won 2 cups in Israel in 2023 and 2024. Which one was sweetest?

I feel like the first win was a bit more sweeter. The cup is a huge deal in Israel. I was just so super excited getting the first title with Hapoel.

You lost the last 2 playoff series against Maccabi Tel Aviv. How big is the hunger to beat them in a playoff series? The team has added fine pieces this season with Harper, Lamb and others. Could this be the year to win the Winner League?

Yes definitely. I feel like we already had great pieces last year to win it all. We weren´t able to finish game 3. I feel like we had, we would of won. We have great pieces this season and all are focused to win. Winning the title is a goal for us.

You have been teammates now for years with Yovel Zoosman in  Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem and the national team. Do you have a special relationship with him?

Zoos is a great guy. He is super quiet and laid back. He is a very hardworker. He is one of my favorite teammates.

You split the 2021-2022 season with  Coosur Real Betis Sevilla (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 6.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 58.8%, 3FGP: 12.0%, FT: 64.5%, in Nov.’21 moved to JDA Dijon Bourgogne (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 13.6ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 86.8%. In France you were teammates with diminutive David Holston who is nearing 40 and in his 11th season with Dijon. How inspiring was it being his teammate for a short time?

It was great being his teammate even if it was for a short time. He is another super guy that I have played with. I had just had my tough injury and he took me under his wing. He was a great teammate and was always there for me. I have no idea when he will retire.

You played briefly with at AS Monaco Basket (France-Jeep ELITE ProA) in the 2020-2021 season. How tough was this season getting injured and with Covid? What did you learn from season?

It was tough sitting. I think the biggest part was the mental part. I thank God that I was able to overcome it. I always believe that everything happens for a reason.

You played the 2019-2020 season with  MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg (Germany-BBL) averaging 17.2), 4.0rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 82.8%. How big was this season for your career. Granted you had finished your rookie season strong in Belgium, but was Germany your break out year?

Playing in Germany was definitely my break through in my pro career. The way John Patrick delt with me was great. He gave me the ball right when I got there. He had total trust in me and I had a great season.

You played for John Patrick. How did you experience his coaching philosophy? Was he a coach that helped your game early on?

He was super orientated and liked the full court press and always giving high energy. On offense he just gave me the reins and let me go. He definitely was a part of me having success that season.

Your dad was a professional soccer player and coach in Trindad and Tobago. You did start to play basketball at age eight, but was there never any desire to play soccer? What drove you to play basketball?

I actually started playing soccer. But coming from New York and it being the early 2000´s. there wasn´t much soccer around. It was easier to play basketball and it just gravitated me to play it.

You split your rookie season with  KK Mornar Basket Bar (Montenegro-Erste Liga) and  Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Euromillions League) averaging 14.1ppg, 3.6rpg, APG-2(4.8), 1.1spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 85.1%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Europe where you knew that you very far away from home?

When I first got to Montenegro all was good. There were many tourists around, but then the weather changed in October/November and the home sickness started to kick in. But I overcame it. It got better when I got to Belgium. It was more americianized and easier to adapt for me.

You played NBA Summer League with the OKC Thunder  and Detriot Pistons. What was your overall summary of your experience.

I could of played in the G-League, but I chose to come to Germany. The NBA Summer League is like basketball heaven. It was all basketball. You saw legends coming in and out.

You played at Seton Hall from 2014-2018 and once stated. ““It sounds weird, but I really enjoyed the ups and downs. The downs taught me a lot. It made me become a man. I learned a lot of things here in my four years, not only on the court but off the court probably more off the court”. What was the most important lesson you learned on and off the court?

I grew up at Seton Hall. You’re a person before basketball. We live life more than we do basketball.

You had so many amazing games like your 41 point explosion against Creighton, scored 29 points in a comeback win against Butler and scored 26 points in the NCAA tournament win over North Carolina State the first win in 14 years. Was your most memorable games one of these or was it another game?

The 41 point game was my most memorable moment. That was like a bubble game. It was a must win for us to get to the tournament. I felt really good that day. When I began and hit 2 shots, the basket then looked like the ocean to me. Putting up 41 points is tough to do anywhere.

How important was ex NBA player Isaiah Whitehead in your first seasons at Seton Hall for your early development?  What do you feel was the most important thing you could soak up from his game?

It was great being his teammate. He already had great skill level as a young kid. He was highly recruited when he arrived and brought some lime light to Seton Hall. He was a super part of my journey during my college era.

Are you and Desi Rodriguez brothers for life. What was your favorite play in the four years you were there with him that would give justice to his nickname dunkin Dezi?

I know him since the 5th grade. He is playing in Israel now. We talk all the time and have dinner together. I remember him having a super big dunk in a come form behind win over Wichita State. That was a great game and one of the funniest games to play in.

How did head coach Kevin Willard who helped you make the switch to the point groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career at Seton Hall?

He was great and had a lot of knowledge about everything. He knew exactly what pro teams want in a player and had great work outs. It was fun to play for him.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Myles Powell?

It always went back and forth. We played a lot my freshman and sophomore years. We even played all hours of the night.

You played against many great players in the NCAA, but who was the toughest battle that is in the NBA now

I think that whole Villanova team with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges

Please name your best teammates of all-time?

My guys from Seton Hall Desi Rodriguez, Ismael Sonogo, Angel Delgado, Isaiah Whitehead

If you had to construct your very own NBA mount Rushmore which 4 heads would you pick?

Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Steph

Who is your GOAT?

Jordan

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

They should of left it alone. You need to leave classics alone.

Thanks Khadeen for the chat.

Robert Brown (Aschaffenburg Baskets) Is Enjoying Learning How To Adapt To New Environments Overseas Which Is Building His Character

Robert Brown (203-F-1998, college: TxWes) is a baller overseas who has been used to nice weather climates in his life. He grew up in Dallas, Texas where he wasn’t used to balmy summers, but toasty summers in the 90’s while in the winters it got cold, but also warm in the 60’s in February. Now in November with winter around the corner, the power forward is living the dream playing his rookie season overseas with German Regionalliga team Aschaffenburg Baskets living in a historic old German city which sits on the Main river and has a beautiful castle named Johannisburg. The winters are cold and damp. But thankfully for him he got an introduction to cold winters when he was at Iona (NCAA).

‘The weather has gotten very cold I’m adjusting a little bit to it but I’m already used to this type of weather because I’ve lived in New York for 2 and half years and it gets pretty cold there’, remembered Robert Brown.

Americans who come overseas can get a real culture shock really rapidly after arriving. Imagine being in a country like Mongolia or Romania or Kosovo. Sure the big cities all have clubs, but imagine being 1-2 hours away from the biggest city and playing for an organization that has 8,000 inhabitants and no Mcdonalds or Burger King. Playing your rookie season in brutal conditions like that often can have a toll on Americans. Not being able to adapt to a new culture can even lead guys returning back stateside and giving up on the dream. Brown was simply very fortunate to have landed in Germany which isn’t only one of the best places for Americans to play, but also one of the most positive places for Americans to begin a career. Money usually arrives on time and finding a Mcdonalds or Burger King isn’t difficult either. But for him actually refraining from visiting a Mcdonalds isn’t tough.

‘Germany has been nice so far it’s been treating me very well the culture here is different and I’m embracing every moment of the people around here welcoming with open arms out here my teammates are the best and helping me with a lot especially when it comes to the language here but I love it so far! I don’t do fast food normally. The only fast food spots I visit are the Doner spots and I cook from time to time as well’, stated Robert Brown.

Most American ballers have a wake up call overseas where they knew that they were far away from home. One of the most popular answers is simply getting used to the time difference. But for Brown, that wake up call never came simply because the whole experience in Germany has been so enriching.

It’s very shocking just being away from home I Remember telling myself when I didn’t have a call I couldn’t wait to get somewhere new start fresh and start life from there now that it happened it’s a reality check on just cherishing every moment because I’ve been here since September and it’s already November so I’m just enjoying the process learning how to adapt in different environments an remaining humble over lovely experiences so far it’s building my character’, warned Robert Brown.

One of the great aspects of the exciting overseas life isn’t just the playing, but also being able to explore new cultures and just visit new fascinating places. Brown hasn’t had too much time yet to explore new cities, but he already has some destinations in the next months. ‘

‘I would like to visit Berlin. My old teammate from Iona Dwayne Koroma that currently plays for UConn this season ! He told me it’s a great scenery I want to check that out after the season but I have been traveling to other cities as far as with the team as well it’s been cool to see other cities and knowing the difference between them. I also will be visiting Jabari Rice in the Czech Republic most likely sometime in January we talk almost every day’, said Robert Brown.

Americans playing in lower leagues overseas have lots of free time. There are usually only one game per week on the weekends and perhaps 2-3 practices per week. Guys playing in higher leagues will practice twice a day and have 1-2 games per week. The teammates of Brown all have jobs or go to school, so he has a lot of time to work on his game.

‘Normally we practice throughout the week so I do weights and conditioning on our off days and get shots up when the gym is available. I also get a little workout around the basket before I go straight into shots. I get to take care of my body which is the most important thing it’s basically teaching me discipline and making sure my craft is at its best’, warned Robert Brown.

How often have I seen other pro ballers watching the Frankfurt Skyliners during a easyCredit BBL game. Guys from lower leagues will take some of their free time to watch former opponents from college or teammates from other years. Brown also has found time seeing what his peers are doing at other levels.

‘I have checked out a few teams with the Skyliners in Frankfurt and a team that’s in a different region than ours’, said Robert Brown.

A great thing about guys balling in lower leagues is that there is no other way then up for them. They have a lot of time to perfect their craft so that one day they can refrain from watching German BBL and Pro A games and possibly compete at a level like that. But at the moment he is focused less on watching the games, but more on himself. His self-confidence is sky high to one day play in the Pro A or BBL. ‘

I am focusing on myself because that’s a big goal of mine to keep working to play in those type of leagues. I believe I can play on that level I just need to keep working and remain humbled I know my time will come I’m just enjoying my process of where I am at as of now’, warned Robert Brown.

It will be interesting to see how the Aschaffenburg Baskets continue to develop and if they can reach 500 this season. As for Robert Brown, he will continue to play his game, grind in the lab and develop further. Off the court, he will continue to experience new things in his life that one day he can tell his grand children about. He is simply living the dream overseas and couldn’t be more blessed for the opportunity.

Versatile Benjamin Sadikovic(Dragons Rhondorf) Will Surprise Many With His Court Vision And Passing Ability

Benjamin Sadikovic (208-PF-2003) is a 22 year old 208cm power forward that is playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. He played the last 2 seasons with the TSV Oberaching Tropics and last season averaged 5.8ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 65.5%. He began his basketball career with TS Jahn Munich where he played NBBL. In his last season he averaged 11.7ppg, 10.0rpg, Blocks-3 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Benjamin for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with the Dragons Rhondorf. How thrilled are you for making this new step?

I’m really excited to finally take this next step in my career. I’m looking forward to the next two years with the Dragons Rhöndorf and I’m very curious to see how much I can grow and develop as a player during this time.

What were the main reasons for joining the Dragons Rhondorf? How key was having the double license opportunity with easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn?

Of course, the double license opportunity with Telekom Baskets Bonn played a role, but it was definitely not the main reason. Even without the BBL connection, Rhöndorf was already an attractive place for me because I can really put in the work and develop there. Also, from the very beginning, I felt very comfortable and truly welcomed by everyone I’ve met so far.

How have you followed the history of the Dragons Rhondorf the last years? You have a 0-2 lifetime record against them

I’ve always kept an eye on Rhöndorf, especially after they won the championship. I followed their games from time to time to see how they were performing. And yes, I definitely hope my record with the Dragons will be a lot better than my record against them!

How valuable is also the opportunity to be teammates with Daniel Mayr? What are you looking most forward to learning from him?

Daniel Mayr is a very experienced player who has made a name for himself in this league for years. I’m really looking forward to learning from him and picking up as much as I can. Especially, I want to see how he uses his length effectively on both ends of the court — that’s something I can definitely learn from and add to my own game.

How did the talks go with head coach Max Becker? What did you appreciate right away about his basketball philosophy?

Even though Max is still a relatively young coach, I was really impressed by our conversations. He has a great understanding of the game and is also a very approachable and pleasant person. I can tell he’s a highly dedicated coach who really focuses on helping his players grow and develop. I’m really looking forward to playing for him over the next few years.

What is your goal in the first season? To possibily be a solid role player in the Pro B

My main focus is to contribute to the team’s success and help us win games. At the same time, I also want to make a name for myself. I want to prove that I can compete at this level and that I’m capable of playing at even higher levels in the future.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to describe your game to another pro player from Germany or anywhere who would it be?

I would describe my game as a mix of different bigs. I have some similarities to players like Jusuf Nurkic and Nikola Vucevic in terms of feel for the game and good positioning, but I’m also working on becoming more mobile and versatile like Bam Adebayo or Daniel Theis – being able to defend, run the floor, and play face-up.

You’re a big man that can score and rebound. Describe your game a bit. What other strengths do you have on the court?

I’m a pretty versatile player for my size. I can score inside thanks to my length, but I also have a solid shooting touch and can be a threat outside the paint. I think one of my underrated strengths is my court vision and passing ability – sometimes people don’t expect that from a big man like me.

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Right now, I’m mainly focused on zone and interior defense, where I can use my size and physicality to protect the paint and secure rebounds. But I definitely want to grow into a defender who can switch and guard all five positions. My goal is to become more mobile on the perimeter, improve my footwork, and be able to guard both bigs and guards effectively.

You played the last 2 seasons with the TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (ProB). You made good strides in your game. How did you game grow in the last 2 years?

Playing with TSV Oberhaching over the last two seasons really helped me become a more physical player. I’ve also made big improvements in my basketball IQ — understanding the game better, reading situations, and making smarter decisions on the court. I’ve developed a lot, but I know there’s still plenty of untapped potential in me, and I’m working hard every day to take my game to the next level.

How vital was head coach Mario Matic for your development? What was the most important thing that he taught you that helped your game?

Mario Matic played a big role in my development. He always pushed me in practice and took extra time to work with me individually. I’m really grateful that I had the chance to play under him and learn from him.

How vital was Fynn Fischer for your game? What were you able to soak up most like a sponge from his game?

I was able to learn a lot from Fynn. What really stood out to me was his post-up game – it’s amazing. He’s still a classic big man who loves to play with his back to the basket, takes advantage of every mismatch, and punishes every small mistake immediately. That’s definitely a skill I want to add to my game as well.

How cool was it being teammates with ultra teammate Omari Knox? What is your fondest moment with him on an doff the court?

Off the court, Omari is honestly one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. He’s just a great person and a great father, and it was always fun to spend time with him. But on the court, he was a completely different guy – the dog came out. He played with so much intensity and fire, and it was amazing to be his teammate. One of my favorite moments was against Ulm when he threw me an incredible bounce pass that led to a big dunk. That’s definitely a play I’ll always remember.

Janosch Koegler is a player every team needs. What will you miss most from his game and leadership skills?

Just like Omari, Janosch was an incredibly kind person that everyone could get along with. On the court, he was the glue guy who always kept the team together and constantly gave encouragement and confidence to everyone. He also had the ability to hit big shots in important moments, which was huge for the team. I’ll definitely miss both his leadership and his calm, positive energy.

Many of your best personal games last season were in loses, but you also had a 13/9 game in a win over Wurzburg. What was your fondest moment on the court in the Pro B?

Personally, I think one of my best games was actually our first game against Fellbach. Even though I didn’t score a lot, I had some really important rebounds and played great defense throughout the game. It was a tough battle, but we managed to win in the end, and that performance really meant a lot to me.

You didn´t play against Hannes Steinbach in that game, but against another young talented player with Clemons Sokolov.What memories do you have battling him on the court?

I think Clemons Sokolov has all the tools to become a really good player. He’s still young, and it will be interesting to see what kind of role he takes on in Würzburg now that Steinbach is heading to college. I definitely enjoyed competing against him on the court.

You began your basketball career with TS Jahn Muenchen U19 team (NBBL) averaging 11.7ppg, 10.0rpg, Blocks-3 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.2% in your last season. What memories do you have of this time? Did you have a mentor?

It was an amazing and fun time where I made lifelong friends and really enjoyed playing basketball with them. Unfortunately, we didn’t make the playoffs that year, even though we had a strong roster. Urspring and Ulm were both very tough teams that season.

I didn’t have one specific mentor in the NBBL, but I was really lucky to have two people who helped me a lot. My coach, Timo Heinrichs, worked closely with me and really helped prepare me for the ProB level. On the other side, Philipp Bode supported me throughout my journey – from my time at Jahn all the way to Oberhaching – and taught me so much along the way.

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled that reached NBA or Euroleague?

I would say Noa Essengue was probably the best player I’ve had the chance to play against so far. Competing with him was definitely a great challenge and experience for me.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Philipp Bode, Omari Knox, Richard Freudenberg, Peter Zeis, Fynn Fischer

Please name your NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

NBA: LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan

Euro: Miloš Teodosic, Theo Papaloukas, Vassilis Spanoulis, Walter Tavares

German: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Detlef Schrempf, Franz Wagner

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James no question!

Thanks Benjamin for the chat

Overseas Rookie Robert Brown Is On A Mission Trying To Help The Aschaffenburg Baskets Out Of Their Hole And Raising His Own Game

It was a long wait and grind for Robert Brown (203-F-1998, college: TxWes) between his last NAIA gig in 2023 with Texas Wesleyan University and his current team German Regionalliga team Aschaffenburg Baskets and now he is finally living the dream overseas, but there is only one problem. The team season and his game just isn´t where he wants it to be yet. As a pro player, you always want to have that perfect balance between winning and giving great support with one´s game, but so far he isn´t on par yet. The Aschaffenburg Baskets started 2-6 and have been up and down since game 1 and he is still finding his game overseas.

“We are in a slump as of now but we are sticking together through the season trying to figure out how to have a good season”, said Robert Brown.

The team began slow with a 4 game losing streak. The club that plays in beautiful Bavaria lost a few tight games and then 2 games by more than double figures. Was this just a phase where the team was trying to find themselves?

“Yes that´s correct. We are currently trying to find our identity as a team but every day we are building up good habits”, warned Robert Brown.

But that basketball is a game of runs is seen in every game and it isn´t any different with team seasons. Unless your Science City 2 who are still unbeaten right now and the team to beat in the Regionalliga South-East North. Clubs are always having ups and downs during the season. After starting with a brutal 4 game losing streak, the Aschaffenburg Baskets went on a strong 2 game winning streak beating Breitengussbach and Gotha. The team were doing it better at both ends.

“We were sharing the ball more and taking pride in defense. I believe we know we are good we just got to be consistent with it once we start back winning”, stressed Robert Brown.

However the club couldn´t keep the momentum and currently are on a 2 game losing streak having lost to Veitshochheim and Dresden. The defense allowed 91 points on average. The season is still young, but the team needs to find out ways to clean up their defense.

“I think communication and defensive situational at times but we are figuring it out as we speak”, added Robert Brown.

Brown who sampled valuable experience in the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University and at Iona played for coaching legend Rick Pitino is a rookie overseas and as hungry as can be. His self-confidence in the abilities of his team aren´t wanning either, but going in a very positive direction.

“ I still have hope and believe we can still turn things around it’s a long season and anything can happen”, warned Robert Brown.

In the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University, he wasn´t a force with his game simply because he didn´t get a real chance to showcase his real skills. That changed as soon as he got Texas Wesleyan University (NAIA) where he averaged 8.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 54.0%, FT: 62.5%. At the moment, he is averaging similar stats to that last NAIA season with 8/5. He knows that he has the abilities to raise his game.

“I’m trying to find more ways to be productive I’m not happy with the way I´m playing right now because I know I can be better and help the team but like I said we have a long season I’m building confidence game by game”, commented Robert Brown.

Every player has to adjust to the grind overseas on and off the court. Every baller has their own way of dealing with it. He knows that everyday is a new day and he is taking it step by step.

“I’ve been adjusting day by day it’s been a battle but I’m learning to keep the same confidence everyday it’s definitely a learning experience and what to expect on playing overseas”, expressed Robert Brown.

He also knows that he still has so much more that his game can offer to the Aschaffenburg Baskets and he is doing all he can in his vast free time to tweak all parts of his game.

“I’m working more so on my midrange confidence in shooting the 3 ball more and just being more active when it comes to the opportunity on scoring being more aggressive on that end”, warned Robert Brown.

Despite the early season woes with the record of the team, he has taken some positives from the season.

My favorite moment of the season so far was our first win of the season and my favorite own basket was the pick and pop from the top of the key I had 2 weekends ago”. Smiled Robert Brown.

He is really geared up for the upcoming game this weekend, because it will be revenge time for him and the Aschaffenburg Baskets. Science City Jena will be in Aschaffenburg for the return game. Jena tore apart the Aschaffenburg Baskets in Jena 107-79 and it was in this game where he battled his toughest opponent so far this season. He was so focused that game that he didn´t even recall whatthe player´s name was, but he definitely remembered him from somewhere else.

“The toughest player that I have faced so far this season was a guard he’s very good. He’s a very good point guard. I played against him in college my last year in college”, said Robert Brown.

I will help Robert Brown by revealing his name as D´Monte Brown. He battled Brown twice in the NAIA as he was with Langston. OK and lost both games. The interesting thing is that there was another current Regionalliga player on that team with Brown with Toru Dean currently tearing upo the league with Bargteheide leading the league in assists and fourth in steals. Wouldn´t it be a delight if Robert Brown could find that balance between a big win at home and monster game against Jena who are still undefeated. A win could be the turning point of the season that the Aschaffenburg Baskets and Brown so dearly need right now.

Scott Stone Supplies The Scoring And Sebastian Heck The Tricks As The Dresden Titans Upend The Skyliners Juniors 80-63

It continues to be weeks of up and down play from the 3-6 Skyliners Juniors as they met the 3-6 Dresden Titans. The surprising aspect was that they had won their last 2 road games and had lost 2 nail bitters at home against BBL farm teams Munich and Ludwigsburg. The problem in both games was finishing games strong as they had lost their nerves in crunch-time. They had a must win situation against the Dresden Titans who were in the Pro B again after spending the last 3 seasons in the Pro A. Frankfurt had to be wide awake as Dresden came into the game having won 2 of their last 3 games after starting off very slow having lost their first 3 games of the season. The last time that Dresden played in Frankfurt in the Pro B was 3 seasons ago where they lost by 27 points which was only 1 of 3 loses the whole regular season. Back then there were 3 players with Sebastian Heck, Max Von Der Wippel and Georg Kupke on the floor that combined for 12 points. 3 years later 2 of the 3 were back in Frankfurt ready for battle. The Dresden Titans punched first and had the Skyliners Juniors reeling and facing an uphill battle right away and they were never able to get over the hump losing 80-63. Frankfurt saved their best defense for the last quarter allowing only 9 points, but couldn´t master that big 30 point quarter as they mustered only 13 points. Frankfurt had displayed severe problems against Ludwigsburg in terms of team togetherness and the problem continued against Dresden. “We didn´t come to play. We had some positive individual play, but not enough to win. We don´t play together and that holds us back. We have the talent to score and shoot, but if we don´t play together, we won´t win. We will come together, but every guy has got to want to do it”, stressed Skyliner Junior Leif Zengraf. The Dresden Titans played a great game as a team and had a game plan and finally had something this game that they didn´t have in the other games this season. “This was the first time this season where we had the whole core together. Our coach Valentin Lott does a great job adjusting in game. We played more side to side with back door cuts and play the traditional motion where we read the game really well. A young team like Frankfurt isn´t used to that. We played well defensively. We aren´t athletic, but we have a group of guys that really know the game. Our rebounding has really been key for us this season as well”, stressed Dresden Titan Scott Stone (193-G-1995, college: St.Cloud St.).

Ivan Crnjac from downtown

The Dresden Titans didn´t waste anytime jumping all over Frankfurt breaking out on a rapid 9-3 run. Minnesota native Scott Stone was in attack mode right away scoring 5 points getting to the free throw line. Dresden had no problems getting to the rim as Bulgarian forward Simeon Dimitrov and Croatian Duje Putnik scored. Frankfurt couldn´t match Dresden´s intensity right away, but slowly found their offensive rhythm hitting 2 three´s from Germans Jamie Edoka and Ivan Crnjac to trail 9-6. But Dresden had no let downs as they continued to attack the rim getting lay in´s from Putnik and German Georg Kupke to lead 15-6. Frankfurt only had the trey on their menu as Maxi Peters hit the next three to trail 15-9. Dresden kept control of the game even if Frankfurt began executing better as Lukas Smazak and Leif Zentgraf scored, but they couldn´t keep pace with Dresden who now decided to let it rain three´s as they received super support from their bench as ex Berlin Brave Kevin Kollmar and ex Speyer forward Samuel Schally scored. The side to side play by Dresden had the Skyliners Juniors running around in circles. Stone hit a 20 footer and Putnik made another lay in as Dresden had the lethal 30-19 advantage after 10 minutes. “I just play out of our offense and use the reads. It was about time that we finally hit three´s. We looked good in pre season and it seemed like we would be a good shooting team, but in the regular season we had problems hitting shots. We didn´t know where they would come from, but now we do”, said Scott Stone. The Dresden Titans shot 71” from the field and 75% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 3 turnovers and the Skyliners Juniors shot 41% from the field and 42% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Dusan Nikolic with the drive

In the second quarter the Dresden Titans continued to control the game and despite a lethal 8-1 run by Frankfurt, it didn´t faze the guests as they led by 14 points at the break. Dresden stopped Frankfurt twice and the latter led to an easy transition bucket by Kollmar who had made the steal. Frankfurt then were able to string along some stops which led to a 8-1 run to trail the guests 33-27. In the run, the Skyliners Juniors got 2 three´s the universal genius Ivan Crnjac and a lay in from ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich. Frankfurt displayed better team play finding open looks and were more aggressive, but they couldn´t hold their momentum. The Dresden Titans punched back closing out the second quarter with a 15-7 run to lead 48-34. Dresden continued to play good team ball and continued to attack the paint area getting easy baskets and used the extra pass numerous times. Putnik was very active scoring 8 points with a trey and lay in while Sebastian Heck also scored twice withn lay in´s while Kupke also made a jumper. Heck who was never a scorer or athletic in his career carved out a long career because of his versatility as he filled up the stat sheet like no other as he finished with 15/3/5/5/1 stats. He would also show some magical tricks in the second half. Frankfurt got execution from Dusan Nikolic with a lay in while Edoka hit a trey and German Marvin Esser made a tip in. “We got really comfortable in the game. We used their aggressiveness against them. We got many back cuts and drop offs which led to easy baskets”, stated Scott Stone. The Dresden Titans shot 69% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 37% from the field and 35% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Scott Stone from outside

The Dresden Titans continued to control the game in the third quarter and would extend their lead to 21 points after 30 minutes. The third quarter would also present a few tricks from Sebastian Heck that dazzled everyone except maybe the Skyliners Juniors. Both teams had their offenses going right off the bat in the second half as Heck and Dimitrov hit three´s while Frankfurt got 5 points from Jamie Edoka, but Dresden led 54-39. Edoka was the only guy from the Skyliners Juniors that one could rely on to get instant points at anytime, because his aggressiveness was spot on for 40 minutes. Then came the first trick play of Sebastian Heck. He was perched behind the three point line and suddenly threw up a lob pass, but instead found no hands, but nothing but net and three points. There was no Luka Donic or Steph Curry behind that play, but Sebastian Heck. “I saw it go up and then saw Heck put his hands on his head. I just smiled at him. Better lucky than good”, laughed Scott Stone. “I saw that Putnik had a mismatch under the basket and I lobbed it up. I knew it was too high when I released it. I was positively surprised when it went it. My apologies to Frankfurt as that was not what I intended to do”, said Sebastian Heck. Stone then added 5 more points with a trey and free throws as Dresden led 62-39. The Skyliners Juniors then found some daylight going on a 8-0 run to trail 62-47. As usual it was Jamie Edoka who carried his team as he added 5 points as his aggressiveness didn´t fail him and Maxi Peters added a trey. However once again Dresden didn´t wilt and punched back going on a 9-3 run to close out the third quarter leading 71-50. In the run, the Titans got another thee pointer from Dimitrov, a jumper from Stone, a bucket by Osasere Otakho and a transition lay in by Heck. Once again Heck made an amazing trick for the gallery. He came down on transition and then made an off balance lay in. It just looked special. “It´s an old men´s game. Slow legs and the lay in”, smiled Scott Stone. “I actually slipped a bit and made the lay in”, said Sebastian Heck. Alvin Oniya added a trey at the buzzer to end the quarter. “We defended well switching a lot. We had good pace and a good rhythm and leaned on it. Even if we were getting tired, we kept executing”, stated Scott Stone. “We had no mental focus and weren´t awake. We had no communication on defense”, stated Leif Zentgraf. The Dresden Titans shot 67% from the field and 56% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 17 turnovers.

Simeon Dimitrov to the hole

The Dresden Titans lost steam in the fourth quarter as they played more of their bench and the Skyliners Juniors buckled down on defense winning the 10 minutes 13-9. Not much scoring occurred in the first 5 minutes of the last frame as Frankfurt got 3 points from Edoka and Dresden received lay in´s from Venezuela guard Leonardo Benitez and Kollmar to lead comfortably 75-53. The Skyliners Juniors then closed out the game strong with a 10-5 run. The Zentgraf brothers scored with a trey and tip in from Leif and lay in from Joschka while the last 2 baskets were spectacular as Jamie Edoka made a alley-oop dunk and Otakho made a thunderous dunk to close out a disappointing night for the Skyliners Juniors. “Frankfurt ended the game strong. When your up 20 points, it´s harder to stay sharp. That is definitely an issue that we have. We have to close out games better”, warned Scott Stone. “We played better, but it was too late. We played for pride, but that has to start in the first quarter”, stressed Leif Zentgraf. The Dresden Titans were led by Scott Stone with 21 points while Sebastian Heck added 15 points and Duje Putnik 13 points while the Skyliners Juniors were led by Jamie Edoka with 25 points while leif Zentgraf added 10 points. The Dresden Titans shot 57% from the field and 39% from outside and had 29 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 40% from the field and 33% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 25 turnovers.

The Skyliners Grind Out First Home Win Of Season Nipping Wurzburg 82-80

After a 2 week break because of the cup schedule, it was time for the Frankfurt Skyliners to take the court again for easyCredit BBL play. The Frankfurt Skyliners had been playing great basketball having won their last 2 games on the road in Ulm and Bamberg and stepped up their defense allowing only 72 points per game in that span. They had been led especially by overseas rookie Jaedon LeDee who quietly is making a name for himself in the league. The question was only could they come back strong after such a long break. Their next opponent was 5-2 Wurzburg who continue to build on their great BBL season last season and came into the game having lost 3 of their last 4 BBL games and wanted to start a new winning streak. It was a game that should of featured 2 of the top players in the BBL with LeDee and Marcus Carr, but LeDee wasn´t fit and didn´t play, but Carr did and almost was able to lead Wurzburg to a win, but came up short 82-80. The Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets had to play catch up basketball for most of the night, but could never get over the hump in the second half. “I have to give credit to Frankfurt. They played a great game and had more effort and energy than we did, but we did have our moments during the game. Both teams had their runs, but all in all, they outrebounded us and they did a good job getting out in their early offense and we weren´t able to slow them down”, stressed Canadian Marcus Carr. The Skyliners continued to play their successful game and took that momentum from their last road games back into their living room and managed their lead well in the second half and played tough defense in crunch-time to secure the victory. “It feels really good to get our first home win. We knew it wouldn´t be an easy game against Wurzburg. They are a good team. Key for the win was that we were able to play our game which is Frankfurt basketball. We played good 1-1 defense against their guards, but our bigs Pape and Hawkins stepped up as well. All in all, it was a team win”, stressed Skyliner guard Isaiah Swope. “We had too many turnovers and gave up too many offensive rebounds. It will be hard to win if that happens”, stressed German Lukas Herzog.

Isaiah Swope at the FT line

Ex Skyliner Jordan Theodore was back in his old crib with friend Japhet Mcneil who played in Germany 15 years ago for USC Heidelberg to support the Skyliners. The first quarter was that typical 10 minutes where both teams are feeling each other out and a lot of punching back and forth. Wurzburg got the 3 ball going with a trey from ex Kentucky (NCAA) player Daivon Mintz and lay in´s from German Christian Skladanowski and ex Towson (NCAA) forward Charles Thompson while the Skyliners also got productive offense from ex Bonn center Till Pape (206-PF-1997) who scored twice inside while ex Artland Dragon Will Christmas also made a lay in, but Wurzburg led 14-13. Both teams continued to execute well and both teams let it rain three´s. Ex Skyliner David Muenkat was motivated to battle his old team and showed it in the last 2 minutes nailing 2 three´s, but Frankfurt also struck back with a clutch trey from ex Artland Dragon Radii Casin and American Isaiah Swope hit one to close out the first quarter with the Skyliners leading 23-22. Both teams had problems coming to terms with each others defense and had 5 turnovers a piece while the Skyliners had the upper hand on the boards with the 9-4 advantage while Wurzburg shot 67% from outside and Frankfurt only 29%. “I think we came out to play right away getting a good rhythm and playing team basketball. I also found my rhythm early. I just let the game come to me”, stated Isaiah Swope.

David Muenkat from outside

The second quarter displayed runs at both ends and Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets led 45-44 at the break. The Skyliners punched first coming out aggressive on defense and stringing along a couple of stops while breaking out on a 7-0 run to lead 30-22. In the run, the Skyliners got 4 points from Swope including a pretty floater while super efficient ex Creighton (NCAA) forward Ryan Hawkins dropped a trey. But the Skyliners couldn´t hold the momentum as Wurzburg punched back with a 5-0 run to trail 30-27 as Mintz hit a trey as Marcus Carr began a string of making 3 incredible shots. The first one was an off balance lay in high off the glass. Frankfurt didn´t keep the lead for long as Wurzburg continued to pressure the Skyliners as walking bucket Marcus Carr was wrecking havoc scoring in bunches with a three pointer and a tough floater to give Wurzburg the 36-34 advantage. American Logan Johnson dead locked the game at 36-36 by being aggressive on the offense glass with a tip in. However nobody could stop Carr. He continued to make tough shots making an off balance shot and a lay in for the 41-38 lead. “My teammates trust my shot making and I have confidence in myself. It is very rare that I hit a shot for the first time. I usually have made that shot before”, smiled Marcus Carr. “He is tough to contain. You have to rely on team defense to stop a guy like him”, warned Isaiah Swope. Muenkat added his third trey of the game to end the 9-0 run as Wurzburg led 45-38. However Wurzburg became sloppy at the end allowing an open trey to Pape and 3 free throws to Casin to let the Skyliners punch back with a 6-0 run to end the first half. “We couldn´t shake them. Their guard play was very good. They made very tough shots”, commented Isdaiah Swope. Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets shot 70% from the field and 78% from the three point line and had 11 rebounds and 9 turn overs while the Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 15 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Jacob Knauf from downtown

The Skyliners took control of the contest in the third quarter and led by 8 points after 30 minutes. Both teams began to execute well in the first minutes as Frankfurt got lay in´s from Johnson and Christmas while the guests received a left handed lay in from Thompson and another trey from Carr to tie the game at 50-50. But then came the turning point of the game as the Skyliners went on a 10-0 run to lead 60-50 and they would never trail again even if Wurzburg never gave up and fought to the end. In the run, the Skyliners got two big three´s from Till Pape who found himself open while Christmas made a lay in and was the anchor on defense with big plays while ex Virginia Tech (NCAA) guard Nahiem Alleyne made free throws. The Skyliners were more active on the defensive end and were flying around disrupting the guests offense. Once again the Skyliners couldn´t keep the momentum as Wurzburg struck back as 2 key defensive mishaps led to a Thompson dunk and trey from Lukas Herzog to trail 60-55. But the Skyliners stayed strong and kept the lead and executed on offense and didn´t produce any turnovers on the last possessions as ex Artland Dragon Jacob Knauf added 5 points with a trey at the shot clock buzzer and dunk as the Skyliners led 66-58 after 3 quarters. “We were all in the flow and were playing together. All were hitting shots and our energy was good”, said Isaiah Swope. “They capitalized on all our mistakes and punished us on box outs or when we didn´t switch with open shots”, stated Marcus Carr. The Skyliners shot 50% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 14turnovers while Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets shot 54% from the field and 60% from the parking lot and had 17 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Jonathan Stove at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Skyliners were never able to slam the door shut on Wurzburg as they were in the game until the buzzer. The Bavarian squad came out focused and with extra energy going on a 7-3 run to trail 69-65 as ex Hamburg Tower Brae Ivey nailed a trey while Herzog made a lay in on transition and Thompson another dunk. But the difference in this game was that the Skyliners always had an answer when the guests punched. The Skyliners responded with a 4-0 run to lead 73-65 as Pape made an offensive rebound and put back while Alleyne made an off balance shot. Carr continued to find ways to score drilling home a trey to trail 73-68. The Skyliners continued to execute getting to the free throw line getting free throws from Pape and Christmas to lead 76-70. Frankfurt upped their on ball pressure on Carr forcing 2 turnovers, but that didn´t hurt Wurzburg too much as they still found ways to stay close as Mintz and ex MBC guard Jonathan Stove scored to cut Frankfurt´s lead down to 78-74 with 38 seconds to play. But Frankfurt was able to get to the free throw line getting a free throw from Christmas to lead 79-74. The Skyliners then had some real fortune as with 24 seconds to play, Carr made only 1 of 3 free throws as Frankfurt led 79-75. Carr and Thompson did make shots in the last seconds, but it wasn´t enough as Hawkins and Alleyne made free throws to secure the win. “We played good defense, got the rebounds and got to the free throw line. Will Christmas was huge as well. He does everything for us”, stressed Isaiah Swope. “We made too many mistakes. I´m proud how we fought until the end, but it just wasn´t enough to overcome them”, stressed Marcus Carr. The Skyliners were led by Till Pape with 21 points. Isaiah Swope added 14 points and Will Christmas 13 points while the Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets were led by Marcus Carr with 23 points while Charles Thompson had 14 points. The Skyliners shot 44% from the field and 29% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 17 turnovers while Fitness First Wurzburg Baskets shot 52% from the field and 57% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 17 turnovers.