BBL

Consistency In Juco Was Molded Into Tradavis Thompson From Randy Bolden And He Wants That To Continue In His Overseas Career

Tradavis Thompson (188-G, college: Lynn, agency: Starting 5) is a 188cm guard from Raymond, Mississippi playing his rookie season in Germany with Regionalliga club TuS Red Devils Bramsche currently averaging 13,3ppg, 2,6rpg, 1,6apg and 1,1spg. He began his basketball career with Raymond high school and then played 2 seasons with Jones College (JUCO) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 69.1% and in his second season averaged 15.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 68.8%. He then played 2 seasons at Mississippi College (NCAA2) averaging 14.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 80.9 and 17.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.1%. He played one final season with Lynn University (NCAA2) averaging 17.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.7apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 62.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tradavis for talking to germanhoops.com Your not only a talented basketball player, but musician. I read that your dropping an album. Is music just a hobby or something your more serious about?

I just enjoy music, it keeps me going and make me have a clear mind and I wanted to just make music of my own for fun that’s all

Congrats on signing with German team TuS Red Devils Bramsche (Germany-Regionalliga). How exciting is it playing your rookie season overseas?

I am very excited to be a part of something that I was dreaming about when I was a kid.

It is rare for ex JUCO players to turn pro. How blessed do you feel and how would you describe your excitement in a few words?

I am very blessed to have an opportunity to prove myself and just get my career started, I’m joyful, blessed, excited, and thankful for the opportunity.

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

I heard Germany is one of the best of the best leagues in the world and basketball means a lot to the fans and I’m glad to be a part of that

Have you had any people you know ball overseas besides Ben Gahlert? Did you seek any advice form him regarding Germany?

I have been talking to multiple overseas guys that are still playing and they gave me some good advice and the advice that I got from Ben Gahlart is to just be myself and live in the moment.

TUS Bramsche have a rich basketball history. What were the main reasons for you to join this organization?

The reason I decided to join the organization is because the type of style they play, things I can bring to team, and I just love to win.

How did the talks go with head coach Christian Fischer? What did you enjoy most about his basketball philosophy?

The talk with coach Fischer was very good and he a wonderful coach and he really cares about his players and that means a lot to me.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare you’re game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Jalen Brunson and DeAaron Fox.

You’re a guy that can score really well, but also fill the stat sheet at ease. What would you classify as your biggest strength?

My Strengths of playing the game of basketball is getting my team involved, scoring at high level in the mid range and getting to the rim and just being a leader for the team.

You demonstrated at 3 different schools and in 2 different leagues that your very consistent. How important has consistency been in your career?

My first Juco coach Randy Bolden always told me when I was a young kid that if I want to be really good in this sport I have to be consistent. So that has been molded in me and I have been sticking with that throughout my whole career.

You made a big jump in your 3 point shooting at Mississippi College, but tailed off a bit at Lynn. How much is your 3 pointer still a work in progress?

I had a bad summer last year due to a small injury and I didn’t get to work out last summer but right now I’m having a really good summer and my 3 pointer is really progressed from where I was last season.

Your also a very strong defender. What kind of a defender would you classify yourself at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I love playing defense and I love to play on the ball a lot to get other players uncomfortable because defense wins games.

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

I am focusing on a lot on fundamentals right now to improve my game to become a better basketball player.

You played 2 seasons at Jones College (JUCO) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 69.1% and 15.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 5.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 68.8%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played Juco have mostly said that JUCO was tough a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

Juco was a very good start for me and I learned a lot of new things and met new people throughout that journey so Juco was really fun.

How important was head coach Randy Bolden in your development as a player in your 2 JUCO years. How did he help you most to become the player entering the NCAA2?

Juco really prepared me for NCAA2 because Juco pushed you to be a better player on and off the court so when I got to Mississippi College I knew the expectations.

You then played 2 years at Mississippi College averaging 14.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 80.9% and 17.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 78.1%. How did your game grow in these 2 years?

I had two great summers there and I stayed in the gym 24/7 and when I played I knew I did everything to be in the right position that I was in.

You exploded against UAH with 47 points in a 92-62 win and hit 9 three´s. What memories do you have of that game? How quickly did you know that you were in the zone?

Tbh I was not supposed to play that game back was aching and I told my coach I’m still going to play and while I was playing, I got going early and the rim just got bigger and bigger.

You then finished at Lynn University (NCAA2) averaging 17.5ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.7apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 62.9%. How important was it playing an extra season at Lynn? You proved you could be an impact player again for a different school.

The Lynn experience was good because when I first got there, they were 4-21 and I knew they had some great pieces and they have a good winning background and with my skills and leadership I knew that I can be a big part of that team and get it back where you’re supposed to be.

What memories will you always have of German big man Ben Gahlert? Did you enjoy feeding him dimes?

Ben was a funny guy. He kept everybody on their toes and he was a great leader and a great teammate probably one of the best teammates I ever had and I will miss giving him dimes maybe he will come out of retirement and we can play today again one day

How did head coach Jeff Price groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Price cared about me more off the court than on the court and that what´s made him a great coach and he gave me some good advice as a young man and I really appreciate him for that.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jamison Evans?

lol Jamison Evans couldn’t ever beat me in one on one in practice but he is a really great player.

Who is the best player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Ashton Hagans was a really great player in high school because he could score at all 3 levels and he was really quick.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Alen Smith,Miles Miller, Quentin Toles, Joshua Sasser, and Bee McCrary.

What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Allen Iverson

Who is your GOAT and why?

Carmelo Anthony is my GOAT, He is a great person and great role model and was a great Basketball Player.

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

I really liked the 2nd Coming to America, It was very funny and better than the first one in my eyes.

Thanks Tradavis for the chat.

Justin Onyejiaka(Rasta Vechta) Is Always In Grind Mode As His Biggest Motivation Is Sky Is The Limit

Justin Onyejiaka (195-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 195cm guard that has returned back to Rasta Vechta for the 2024-2025 season. He couldn´t play his first game this season until January 3, 2025 due to a tough injury. Currently he has played 8 games in the Pro A averaging 5,6ppg, 2,1rpg and 1,3spg. He played the last 2 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners. In his first season he played 6 easyCredit BBL games and in the Pro B averaged : 13.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 23.2%, FT: 57.1%. Last season he played 41 pro A games averaging 7.0ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 72.8%, and in the Pro B averaged 23.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 47.8%, FT: 60.0%. He began his basketball career with BBC Osnabruck and then played 2 seasons with Rasta Vechta in the JBBL, Regionalliga and Pro A. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the U-20 European championships.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Last summer Germany finished the U-20 Euro at 12th place. What was your summary of the tournament?

I thought it was a good tournament for us. We had some good wins, but also some tough loses against France and Italy. I think had we won those games, we would have been in a better position to have a better result at the end.

Is it possible to feel after the preparation how well the team could do going in? What kind of a feeling did you have?

I had mixed feelings. We had some bad results in the preparation. But I knew that we had good potential going in.

Germany lost a tough game to France 103-78. Germany shot out the lights with 15 three´s, but gave up 26 turnovers. What do you believe did the team learn from the game?

The biggest problem was their length which they had at every position. You don´t see that much at that level. We had problems playing switch defense.

It is always nice to see a well rounded scoring team, but was the team possibly missing 2 very dominant go to guys? Martin Kalu is one of those guys.

I wouldn´t say that. I feel like with all the talent we had, the scoring was evened out. Any player could have stepped up in any game.

You averaged 8/1/2 stats in 18 minutes at the 2024 Eurochampionships. How content were you with your game? Your three point and free throw shooting weren´t great?

One could see in the last games that we were all exhausted. I feel like I played a good tournament in the minutes that I got. I showed what I could do on the court.

What was it like playing for new Vechta BBL coach Martin Schilling? What did you appreciate right away from his coaching abilities?

I appreciated how structured his practices were. They weren´t boring at all. He had all kinds of drills from skill work to defense. I really like that. It was good to see what is to come with Vechta.

Did you notice anything in his coaching that he brought over from his G-League time?

I can´t really say. I did notice that he had many different plays. He was always ready with plays especially in difficult situations or with little time left on the clock.

The minutes were well defined, but how big was the competitive level for minutes, something that will be great again in Vechta this season?

It is always like that with talented teams. You always have to fight for minutes. It was similar like that in Frankfurt as well. I´m always ready for the Competitive fight for minutes. That is part of the basketball business.

You were teammates with so many great young German players. Was there a guy that had a big impact or influence on you?

I can´t pick just 1 player.

After 2 years in Frankfurt, you have returned back to an old stomping ground Vechta. Vechta has grown tremendously as an organization in the last years especially with developing young players. Did you see a bigger chance of getting minutes and developing further than remaining in Frankfurt?

Yes I do. That was a big reason why I returned to Vechta. The perspective for young players is better in Vechta. With Frankfurt the biggest thing is to win.

What are your biggest goals this season besides helping the team win? I´m sure you will get more Pro A minutes than in Frankfurt and in between get BBL minutes.

I will do whatever is asked of me. I will work very hard. My biggest motivation is always sky is the limit.

How excited are you to play with big German talent Johan Gurneloh before he leaves for bigger and better things? What do you like most about his game. His block shot strength and your athleticism and long arms could form a great duo on defense?

I have known him since a long time. He is a super big talent. It is crazy how well he has developed in the last 2 years. He is a great shot blocker and I like to paly pick and roll with him.

How excited are you to play for Hendrik Gruehn again? How have you seen him develop in last 2 years?

I´m really looking forward to work with him again. I´m so happy for his success. He has come such a long way with the NBBL team and then leading the Pro B team to the Pro A.

You played the last 2 years in Frankfurt. How did you grow as a player and a man in Frankfurt?

I became more mature and stable as a player. I learned a lot from Klaus Perwas especially on the defensive end. I learned effort over all. You can overcome mistakes with high effort.

You came to Frankfurt wanting to become a two way player. Did you achieve that?

Yes I think I have. I have gotten nearer to that goal and that will continue to be my card.

How tough was that first season in Frankfurt having to move down to the Pro A? What did you learn from that season?

It was a tough season. It was overburdening. I was injured and the overload with BBL and Pro B was too much for me. We practiced too much and that was a reason why I got injured. There was a lot of chaos. The second season was a lot better. There was more structure and rhythm that season.

You had the delight to be teammates with Quantez Robertson for a season. What is your nicest moment with him?

It was really cool to have a veteran like him around. I liked his motivational speeches most. He was always able to pick you up when we were down.

You helped Frankfurt reach the Pro A final. What was so special about this team?

We had a great bond. Everybody understood each other really well. I hadn´t really ever seen that before. We always had fun and were motivated. We were really together.

Last season in the pro A you averaged 7,0ppg and 1,8rpg in 15 minutes. I personally would have liked to have seen you have a bigger role. How do you summarize your season?

I saw my season as positive. I was really happy how I was able to come back from an operation and get integrated so well and play well. I would have liked to have a bigger role, but that is how it happened. I wouldn´t have changed it for anything.

Head coach Denis Wucherer stress defense. How did he help you become a better defender?

I got my minutes because of my defense. I had to give full energy and shut down the opponents best player

You had many wonderful games like against Paderborn, Jena and in the 2 final games against PS Karlsruhe. What was your fondest moment on the court?

My favorite moment was winning game 5 in Trier. That was a crazy game and just an unreal feeling winning the game. I also liked my game against Paderborn. Coming back from an injury and little practice and playing that well was a big moment.

How well will Germany do at the Olympics?

I obviously support Germany, but I don´t see them winning a medal. USA will win Gold. Canada Silver and France or Serbia bronze.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

 Working More On His Shot Has Helped Nevio Bennefeld Achieve Higher Shooting Percentages This Season

Nevio Bennefeld (212-C-2007) is a 18 year old 212cm center that is playing for Alba Berlin´s NBBL (U-19 team) averaging 8,3ppg, 6,4rpg, 2,0apg and 1,8bpg and also with Pro B team lok Bernau averaging 3,7ppg and 3,0rpg. Last season he averaged 1.8ppg, 2.0rpg for Lok Bernau, 8.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.5%, for the Alba Berlin NBBL team and also played ANGT averaging 9.0ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 57.1 %. He recently played at the U-17 World Cup averaging 2,8ppg and 2,8rpg. He also played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) averaging 4.3pgp, 5.2rpg, 1.2spg. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks Nevio for talking to eurobasket.com. You finished the 2023-2024 season and it was a heavy load with ANGT, AST, NBBL, Pro B and the World Cup U-17. How was the season for you mentally and physically?

It was a long year. It was my first season with Alba Berlin. I came from Heidelberg and was without my family in Berlin. It was a big change. But Alba Berlin did a great job to help me get adjusted.

Last summer you played at the U-17 World Cup and Germany finished in 11th place. How did you summarize the tournament? I guess you can´t make excuses with some guys not being there?

It was a very strong level. It was a new experience and we needed time to get adjusted. 11th place may not seem great, but we raised our play from game to game. We went from game to game and gave our best.

Germany had some loses to Turkey and France. Did these games show that there was a big difference in talent and class?

The French team was very good. They had very good team chemistry and had played together a lot longer than we did. We had a very short preparation time and were at a disadvantage against other teams.

What could you learn from games like these?

You can only learn playing against top level teams like that. We could see where we stand at. I thought we did a good job not hanging our heads after tough loses. We just kept going and won games after loses. We always stayed positive after loses.

You averaged 2/2 in 13 minutes. What do you believe was the major obstacle for you not getting more minutes?

I would have liked to have played more. It was still a great experience having been a part of it. I gave it all I had.

You also played at the AST. I remember watching a tough loss to Serbia and then an almost win against China. What were you able to take from the AST?

AST was also a valuable learning experience for all. We once again had a short preparation time and just didn´t play as well as a team. We also didn´t hang our heads after the loss to Serbia and then almost beat China.

What is it like being coached from Dirk Bauermann. He is a legend and is lauded from his players for his work with the young players. What kind of a relationship do you have with him and how has he helped you most?

It is enriching to be able to be coached by such a successful coach like him. He has such a vast knowledge of the game. He would always help me after certain situations on the court. I learned a lot from him.

What has it been like being teammates with other big man Clemens Sokolov? How do you guys push each other best in practice?

I like him a lot. He is a nice guy. We spent a lot of time together off the court. On the court we were very competitive. We often had shot competitions after practice.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 212cm center. To what pro player have you heard comparisons from other people about how you play the game?

I play a lot of 5, but can also play the 4. Anthony Davis is a big role model for me. I watch a lot of videos of Kevin Durant. I like his game. We have a similar stature.

You can score and rebound, but what is your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength is my shot and fighting mentality.

You take three´s, but it doesn´t seem so developed yet in your game. Is this an area that you want to continue to raise your amount of shots?

Yes I want to. I´m working a lot on my shot. I definitely want to raise my shooting percentages.

Your also a talented defender, but is it fair to say a bit raw? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I want to be a better 1-1 defender. I also want to be able to switch on the guard and be able to hold my own. I also have to get faster foot work.

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

I´m working a lot on ball handling, coordination and foot work. I´m also more in the weight room.

You played your first season with Alba Berlin. What was it like being part of this great organization? What did you appreciate most from the experience?

Going from Heidelberg to Berlin was a big step. The practices were harder, there were better coaches and facilities. I have enjoyed the amount of coaches that I can work with the most.

Alba Berlin suffered a tough 3 game playoff series loss to the Young Rasta Dragons. Is it fair to say that nothing stood in their way of finally winning it all in their 3rd straight NBBL top 4 final?

Vechta was a very good team. We were a new and young team. They were simply better than we were the whole season. Losing the series hurt.

In the second playoff game you played against huge talent Johan Gruenloh. You held your own with 11 points and 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Did a performance like that give you added self-confidence?

It was great to play against him. I had a good game against him. I took advantage of it. During the game I focus more on me, but after a game, I do watch other players on video and try to take things from their games.

How important was it having a guy like Linus Ruff on your side? What do you appreciate most about his game?

It was cool to play with him. He is a very good player and will play in vechta next season. He helped me a lot at the start of the season. He played ahead of me at the 5. He was a very strong 1-1 player in the post. Our daily battles in practice helped my game.

You averaged 8/4 stats in 23 minutes. You had some good games, but how tough is it having consistency on a team that has so many scoring options?

I need to get more consistent. I had some good and bad games. I think it is good in general when a team doesn´t have to rely only on one player. In some games I took responsibility and in others others.

You also played 4 pro B games with Bernau. What kind of an experience was it getting your first Pro B minutes? What could you get most from this experience?

It was a great experience to play with Lok Bernau. It was a new experience for me as in Heidelberg I had only played Regionalliga. I was able to gain my first pro experience in the pro B

Your last game was a real exciting game where you lost 116-115 to Rostock. What will you always remember from that game?

I learned in that game that a game is never over until the buzzer sounds. We were up by 5 points and then they forced overtime and won. That loss hurt a lot. You always need to play until the end.

What are your goals for this season? Perhaps to get a bigger role in the NBBL and make the next steps in the Pro B?

I want to have a bigger role in the NBBL and earn more minutes in the Pro B.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court?

Johan Gruenloh

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I can´t name just 5. There are too many great ones.

Please name your personal NBA, and German Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Bill Russell and Nowitzki, Schroeder, Patrick Femerling and Detlef Schrempf.

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Nevio for the chat.

Nico Hihn(SpVgg Moehringen 1887) Knew At Halftime That He Had To Take The Game Into His Own hands And Finished With An Incredible 48 Points

Nico Hihn is 27 year old 190cm guard that is playing for SpVgg Moehringen 1887 (Regionalliga) this season. He played 3 seasons with SV 03 Tuebingen 2nd Team (Regionalliga) with his best seasons were averaging 19.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 2.2apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 78.8% and 18.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 79.0%. He recently scored 48 points in a Regionalliga game and spoke to germanhoops.com

Thanks Nico for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I´m in Moehringen at the moment and happy with my basketball life.

Last weekend you scored 48 points in a tough loss to Haiterbach. Despite the loss could you enjoy the the individual great game bit?

I could enjoy my performance a bit. I felt good early as I had 17 points at half-time. I knew I had to continue to step it up in the second half as my teammates weren´t having great shooting nights. I just took it into my own hands and everything worked out well.

Did your teammates do something for you or did you have to get donuts?

Not yet. We have practice tonight. I haven´t heard anything is something is planned. I did get many congrats from family and friends.

How good does it feel scoring the most points in Germany last week?

I´m very happy how I played and hope that I can take my play into the next game. We are in a tough phase at the moment with injuries and guys being sick.

You had some 30 plus points in the Regionalliga for Tuebingen. Was this the most points in a game for you?

That was the most points that I ever had in the men´s game. I did have 53 points in a game in the U-12.

How quickly did you know in the game that you could have a good game?

In the last games my three pointer wasn´t falling. I hit 2 wild three´s in the first and second quarters. Usually when that happens, I will have a good game.

Did you know in the fourth quarter how many you had? You were so close to 50 points and just missed it.

I didn´t know at that stand point. I first knew that I had scored 48 points at the end. In the fourth quarter I thought that I must have around 40 points. But I was focused too much on trying to win the game.

How thankful to have Daniel Grieb who dished out 7 assists despite averaging only 0,9apg coming ínto the game?

I´m very thankful how well he played. Our big man is out so he got a lot more minutes. It isn´t easy when you go from a few minutes to 38 minutes. He did a good job.

You always were a good scorer in your career, but did you ever think you could score 48 points in a game?

One does think about having the opportunity of having a crazy game, but scoring 48 points is still a lot different than hitting for 35 points. It isn´t easy to make 48 points in a game. You have to hit everything. Plus we also are a team with many good scorers.

What does 48 points mean to you? Is the goal now to reach 50 plus points?

Yes nothing is impossible. Everything worked for me on this night. Scoring 48 points doesn´t happen often. It is possible, but I think that as soon as we have everyone on board again, I don´t think so many plays will be run for me. It is seldom that you have 2 games like that back to back or in a season. But it could happen. I have a lot of self-confidence now

You began your career at SpVgg Moehringen 1887 and then played 3 years at SV 03 Tuebingen 2nd Team (Regionalliga) during COVID. Why did you return back? You had good seasons in Tuebingen.

I live in Moehringen with my brother Ruben. I went back for private reasons. I know everybody here and I enjoy playing for Moehringen. I went to Tuebingen a few years ago to play at a higher level.

Did you ever have bigger aspirations as a basketball player?

It was always 50/50. I never really wanted to turn pro, but the opportunity was there. There was a time where I had to decide between hanging out with friends on the weekend or being in the gym.

You were teammates with Danish athletic player Bakary Dibba. Did you ever expect him to make such strides in his basketball career?

I was pretty sure that he could. His athleticism speaks for it´s self. He isn´t the best shooter, but his tempo and steps on the court are big.

Is it an added plus for you personally to play with your brother Ruben?

Yes it is. I´m 2 years younger than him. It is something special to play together with him.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Niklas Schueler?

Back then he had no chance. I have a quicker first step and am bigger. But he is a great shooter. He is one of my best teammates ever.

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

In the JBBL, I played against Mahir Agva. Another guy would be David Scheu from Karlsruhe.

Please name your best teammates of all-time?

Nicklas Schueler, Ruben Hihn, Petrus Tzikas, Bakary Dibba

Please name your NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Shaq

Teodosic, Spanoulis, Sloukas,

Dirk, Andreas Obst, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

Thanks Nico for the chat

Chrysostom Chukwuma Likes The Challenge Of Having That Responsibility And Leadership With The Young Skyliners Juniors

Chrysostom Chukwuma (190-G-1996, agency: Bell Basketball) is a 28 year old 190cm guard playing his first season in Germany with the Skyliners Juniors (Pro B) after starting the season with the Helsinki Seagulls. He began his basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat. He then played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy. He then played 2 seasons with Lapuan Kobrat (Korisliiga) and a season with Pyrinto Tampere (Korisliiga). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over the TSV Oberaching Tropics.

Thanks Chuko for talking to germanhoops.com. Did you watch the Superbowl or is that not as popular in Finland?

It isn´t as popular in Finland, but I have friends that follow it. I never got into it.

Did some of your teammates watch or watch in groups?

I have no idea.

Congrats on the big 75-63 win over the TSV Oberaching Tropics. The team has a 3 game winning streak. How good is life now?

It feels great to be successful. It wasn´t easy for me to come to a new team in mid season. I have to learn the coaches philosophy, system and tendencies of the players. It was our first game without Hadenfeldt. I want that responsibility and leadership. We have a young team, but have a lot of potential.

The first quarter was won 19-17 by the guests. How tough was it getting the offense going with the pesky Tropics guards?

That was our biggest problem the whole game. They did a good job dodging the screens. We had problems getting open. We had too many turnovers.

The team had 7 turnovers in the first quarter and 23 in all. How big is it of a job for you to bring some stability to the offense?

Yes exactly. Hadenfeldt is away now and I have to bring rhythm into the offense and bring calmness to us.

In the second quarter the Skyliners Juniors did a better job on the pick and roll after not getting the side pick and roll going in the first quarter. How much fun is it playing with Malik Kordel?

I love Malik. I watched some games before I signed. I have never played with a 7 footer that has such good hands as he does. He is super young and has a bright future. I love playing with him.

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to lead by 12 points after 30 minutes. What adjustments did the team make?

We just turned up the intensity and got more stops and ran the court and pushed the pace. We made one pass to the wing and attacked.

In the fourth quarter the Tropics punched back with a 9-2 run to trail 56-52. What was key for the guests coming back?

We made small mistakes. We have to learn to be consistent for 40 minutes.

The Skyliners Juniors came back with a run to get their lead back to double figurers. How developed is the cohesion of the team?

I think that we have good energy. When we have hard moments, it tests us. Then we can see how well we can stay together, but that happens with young teams.

Malik Kordel made a massive poster dunk on Maxwell Dongmo Temoka. What were you thinking when you saw that?

That is what he does. He is a great athlete that can run the court well. I have never seen a player that tall that can move so well.

When you look back at the 40 minutes of the game, what was the Skyliners biggest strength in the game?

We kept fighting and where physical even if it was ugly.

You had a 15/4/2 game in 28 minutes. How content were you with your game?

I made some three´s that gave us some release. You can never be satisfied. I´m looking forward to the next games.

What was your favorite play of the game besides Kordel´s poster dunk?

I liked how we played the third quarter. We began with good energy. That is how we should start every game. Make the first hit and make the opponent call a time out and put pressure on them.

Thanks Chuko for the chat.

Even If Philipp Bode(TSV Oberaching Tropics) Lost On His Birthday In Frankfurt There Is Nothing Better Than Celebrating His Birthday With His Best Friends(Teammates)

Philipp Bode (179-PG-2001) is a 24 year old guard playing his 7th season for the TSV Oberaching Tropics (Pro B). He got early basketball experience playing with TS Jahn Munich (NBBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the loss to the Skyliners Juniors.

Thanks Philipp for talking to germanhoops.com. Did you watch the Superbowl or are you not a fan of football?

I did watch it. I was born in USA and got to know it there. We began watching the game in the car. We got home to Munich at 1.30. I then continued to watch at home.

Did some of your teammates watch or watch in groups?

Some guys watched more than others.

You turned 24 on Sunday. What does a guy like you still wish for for their birthday?

That is a tough question. I just generally wish to have a great life with the situation I´m in. That is most worthwhile for me.

How tough is it having a birthday on an away game? Did your teammates do anything for you?

Of course they sang happy birthday to me. I actually don´t mind having a game on my birthday. It would have been nicer having a home game instead of driving 10 hours and losing on the road. But no matter what it is simply the best sharing my birthday with my friends (teammates).

You suffered a tough 75-63 loss in Frankfurt. Do you sometimes wonder how many more wins you would have if all were fit?

Not really, but we had small injuries in the last weeks that effected our rotation. It hurts our overall rhythm and we have to keep making adjustments.

The first quarter was won 19-17 by the guests. How vital was the defensive presence of you and Mateo Jukic there?

My main duty is playing defense. That is what people expect from me. It is important for me and the team that we bring energy, because there are some older guys that are slower.

Do you sometimes try to get going in a game first with your defense to get your offense going?

It is different from game to game. Every team in the Pro B have 1-2 great players. It is my job to slow them down. Being able to do that helps us find a rhythm.

In the second quarter the Skyliners Juniors did a better job on the pick and roll after not getting the side pick and roll going in the first quarter. How tough was it keeping Malik Kordel under wraps?

Kordel is a huge presence on the court and changes the game so much. He makes the pick and roll 10 times harder to defend. He is also a great rim protector.

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to lead by 12 points after 30 minutes. What adjustments did the they make? Their help defense was strong.

Their set defense was prepared for us and they were very present on the court. Their defense got better mid way through the second quarter already.

In the fourth quarter the Tropics punched back with a 9-2 run to trail 56-52. What was key for the guests coming back?

Our defense was good. We got consecutive stops which helped us get easy baskets. Unfortunately easy baskets didn´t happen often in the game.

The Skyliners Juniors came back with a run to get their lead back to double figurers. Were the Tropics feeling it in the legs?

Yes, but we are used to it. We know how to play with fatigue. We had bad execution in that phase and missed open shots.

Malik Kordel made a massive poster dunk on Maxwell Dongmo Temoka. Maxwell seemed to take it with humor?

Now Maxwell is seen everywhere being on that poster. But he is a player that tries to contest every shot. If he is on a poster on every fifth shot, then he is contesting the other 4 very well. He gets there. His quota is very good. He just keeps jumping.

When you look back at the 40 minutes of the game, what cost you the game most?

Bad execution and not playing enough execution. We wanted to play more transition.

You had a 4/3/3 game in 33 minutes. You were a little unlucky with your 2 point shooting.

My job isn´t to take many shots. I should of made 2 of my 5 misses. It just wasn´t my day. It was one of my worst games of the season.

You next play the tough Leitershofen who you lost by 27 points in the first game, but this time your at home. What will be key to getting the win?

They are a tough team. We have a difficult program in the next weeks. But in this league everyone can beat everyone. We showed that we could beat the RheinStars. We go into each game giving 100%

Thanks Philipp for the chat.

Jamie Edoka Powers The Skyliners Juniors to the 75-63 Victory Over TSV Oberaching Tropics

The seventh placed Skyliners Juniors continued to play good basketball in the last weeks having won 3 of their last 4 games including a 87-61 on the road against the always pesky Ehingen team who like Frankfurt have many talented young players. With the regular season going into the last stage, every game is important for the jockeying of the playoff places. Frankfurt didn´t have an easy opponent this weekend as they had the TSV Oberaching Tropics who despite being banged up for weeks and not having a full roster still had a positive 9-8 record and were in fifth place. Head coach Mario Matic who was a easyCredit BBL player in 2008 with Nordlingen has done a great job for years keeping players and developing a great team chemistry. Oberaching had a positive 3-2 record since the new year, but only 3-5 on the road. Frankfurt had to say farewell to veteran Philipp Hadenfeldt who for a second time in the last 2 seasons took a semester abroad this time in Italy. But they had hauled in Finish point guard Chuki Chukwuma who had been solid in his first 3 games including 28 points against the RheinStars Cologne. On a cold Sunday evening, both teams met in the BCM in Frankfurt and saw a very low scoring and tight first half, but in the second half the Skyliners Juniors found to their game better and took control and in the end won easily 75-63. “In the first half we didn´t really have a good offensive flow, but our defense was pretty good. We had a few individual mistakes and they over gambled a bit. In the third quarter we upped our defense allowing only 6 points. That helped us get good control of the game which we kept to the end”, stressed Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008). The TSV Oberaching Tropics as usual weren´t complete again as captain Janosch Koegler was sick and Jorg Dippold was injured. They stuck with Frankfurt for a half, but in the second half just couldn´t keep up their consistent defense from the first half as the Juniors executed well and played great inside out basketball. “We didn´t have the necessary energy, concentration and focus tonight. We were satisfied at the break that we were only down by 1 point. We didn´t play a good first half. We had a slow start in the third quarter and that carried over until the end”, stressed TSV Oberaching Tropics guard Omari Knox.

Chuko Chukwuma at the FT line

The first quarter was a back and forth battle with 5 lead changes where no club could get away from the other. Both teams were concentrating more on getting the ball inside. Ex IBAM center Fynn Fischer who played 3 BBL games scored twice while Frankfurt got a bucket from big man Malik Kordel and a basket by Jamie Edoka as the game was dead locked 7-7. 38 year old Omari Know who averaged 22,0ppg in 8 Regionalliga seasons showed he can score in bunches as he presented his deadly mid range game for the 11-7 Tropics lead. Jamie Edoka who turned 17 years old a few weeks ago continued to play with crazy self confidence hitting a trey to trail only 11-10. The Tropics continued to find Fynn Fischer as he made 2 lay in´s to keep Oberaching ahead 15-12. Three´s hadn´t been on the menu, but ex Hanau guard Bruno Albrecht nailed a trey to tie the game at 15-15. The guests had the narrow 19-17 lead after 10 minutes getting free throws from Fischer and a lay in from birthday boy Philipp Bode. TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 47% from the field while Frankfurt was at 33%. Both teams couldn´t hit the ocean from outside as combined they were 2/12. Frankfurt dominated the paint area 12-6 with 3-0 offensive rebounds while their plague of coughing up the ball continued as they had 7 turnovers and TSV Oberaching Tropics only 3. “We knew that it would be a hard game. They like to bump you a lot. We aren´t used to that. We had no offensive rhythm as their pick and roll defense was good as they slowed down our side pick and roll”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich.

Omari Knox with the step back

The second quarter continued to be low scoring as the TSV Oberaching Tropics led by as much as 9 points, but the Skyliners Juniors never stopped fighting and came back and had the 1 point lead at half-time. The TSV Oberaching Tropics came out with a lethal 9-2 run to extend their lead to 28-19. In the run The TSV Oberaching Tropics played aggressive defense and forced turnovers with their quick guards Bode and Jukic. Omari Knox added 4 points including a three pointer and Fynn Fischer and Jukic added lay in´s. Frankfurt´s offense was ok and had good looks, but they weren´t capable to hit open shots. But basketball wouldn´t be basketball without runs as now it was time for Frankfurt. Frankfurt buckled down and heightened their defensive pressure and finally started to hit shots as they escaped out on a 13-3 run to take back the lead 32-31. In the run the Skyliners Juniors got massive support from Jamie Edoka who led the offense with his leadership and scored twice while Chuko Chukwuma scored 2 three´s. “Jamie is a Pro B rookie, but plays like he has been in the league for 5 years. He just does the job and always finds a solution on offense. He reads the defense so well. Last year he had problems with the trap, but he has improved so much. He also played good defense on Omari Knox”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich. Maximillian Peters also added a step back jumper from the wing. Frankfurt´s high energy and aggressiveness on defense led to Tropics turnovers while the Tropics defense were a bit weak on the 1-1 defense. Fynn Fischer closed out the second quarter with an old school hook shot. “We played more pick and roll through the middle. They didn´t ice as well so we got more three pointers”, commented Florian Dietrich. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 35% from the field and 8% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Jamie Edoka with the step back

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to take total control of the game and led by as much as 14 points and after 30 minutes led by 12 points. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got on the board first as ex Fc Bayern basketball 2 German Maxwell Dongmo Temoka made a lay in to give Oberaching the 33-32 advantage. The Skyliners Juniors then exploded for a 10-0 run to capture back the lead at 42-33. In the run Jamie Edoka continued to be in attack mode as he scored with 2 drives, Bruno Albrecht added 4 points and versatile German Marvin Esser made a runner. Frankfurt tightened up their defense as they would only allow 6 points. Their help defense was their biggest strength in the quarter. TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t match Frankfurt´s intensity and their 1-1 defense couldn´t contain the Juniors attackers. Fischer stopped the Frankfurt run with a hook shot, but Frankfurt punched back with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 49-35. In the run Frankfurt got 3 free throws from Bruno Albrecht, a massive dunk from Dusan Nikolic from the wing and a big 2 handed dunk by Marvin Esser who received the bullet pass from Namori Omog. “He has a special knack of seeing his teammates”, said Jamie Edoka. The TSV Oberaching Tropics closed out the third quarter with a lay in by Maxwell Dongmo Temoka to trail 49-37. “Our offensive flow was very good. We had one good situation which led to another good situation. That helped raise our self-confidence. We knew they would go inside. Our help defense was excellent. We know we have to help each other because we are all like family”, added Namori Omog. “We had a lack of focus and mis communication on defense. They did a good job hitting shots”, expressed Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 22% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 29% from the field and 5% from the parking lot and had 32 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Maxwell Dongmo Temoka at the FT line

In the fourth quarter both teams had their respective best scoring quarters in the game as both scored 26 points a piece, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t get over the hump as they couldn´t get stops. Fans also saw a few more spectacular dunks to go home content. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got good support from ex Tuebingen playedr Niklas Schueler with 2 baskets while Frankfurt received lay in´s from Albrecht and Chuwuma and a trey from Maximillian Peters, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t make any ground as Frankfurt led 56-43. Despite having only a 8 man rotation, the TSV Oberaching Tropics still had some energy left in their gas tank as they broke out on a 9-2 run to trail only 58-52. In the run ex BBL player Peter Zeis was aggressive scoring 5 points including a three pointer while Dongmo Temoka and Schueler made lay in´s. “We lost a little concentration. But the good thing about our team is that we are always able to catch ourselves”, stated Jamie Edoka. But the Skyliners Juniors fought back going on a 9-4 run to extend their lead to 67-56. In the run it was Jamie Edoka who made a lay in while Chukwuma also scored in the paint area and Bruno Albrecht hit a trey. Malik Kordel ended the run in massive fashion with a poster dunk on Dongmo Temoka. “Dongmo was hyped up I think. You should never try to jump with Malik. Nobody can stop him”, warned Jamie Edoka. Zeis stopped the run with a trey, but Edoka connected again with a trey as time in and time out, he hit big shots for the 70-59 lead. “With Hadenfeldt gone, I know that I have to show even more responsibility. I´m ready for it. I know that I have too many turnovers, but I´m working on it. I´m always ready to take the big shots”, warned Jamie Edoka. Knox did add a trey, but Frankfurt closed out the game strong with a Kordel alley-oop dunk and Chukwuma three pointer. “We pushed the ball and got the ball inside and got easy baskets in our run, but Frankfurt got their offense going again and hit three´s stated Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Jamie Edoka with 21 points while Bruno Albrecht added 16 points and Chuko Chukwuma 15 points while the TSV Oberaching Tropics were led by Fynn Fischer with 16 points while Maxwell Dongmo Temoka added 12 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 31% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 23 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 37% from the field and 11% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

The Dragons Rhondorf Explode In The Third Quarter Overpowering FC Bayern Basketball 2 98-77

The last weeks haven´t been easy times for the Dragons Rhondorf as losing has been the main course on the menu. Despite a new coach with Marko Zarkovic, the winning didn´t resurface as last week they lost to a hungry and team orientated club with the Fellbach Flashers and had lost their fourth game in the last 5 games. The Dragons might be losing but the team continues to give effort and fight. Their next opponent was FC Bayern Basketball 2, possibly the best opponent for them at this crucial part of the season as wins have to come for the fight for the playoffs. It has been a very tough season for FC Bayern Basketball 2 as they were in dead last place with a 3-14 record. The youth and inexperience continue and the departure of Ivan Kharchenkov and Martin Kalu hurt their offense. FC Bayern Munich came to Rhondorf having lost 4 of their last 5 games, but had some confidence having beaten the Ahorn Camp Baskets last weekend. On a cold Saturday night the Dragons Rhondorf finally began a winning streak again in their quest to reach the playoffs in 2025. The Dragons Rhondorf showed as usual that they can present their explosive scoring, but also showed that they can defend when they want to. It was the least points that they have given up in a game in 2025 as effort and teamwork was rewarded with success. “We didn´t have the best start. We scored well, but didn´t defend as well. We went in the game with the goal of allowing 72 points. Our offense was good for the most part with good ball movement. We woke up on defense in the third quarter. It was a good team performance where all played well and played for each other”, said Dragons Rhondorf guard Janne Muller.

Marco Frank at the FT line

The first quarter showed 2 teams that were executing solidly on offense, but didn´t find their defensive rhythm yet. FC Bayern Basketball 2 were led by Marco Frank and Dominick Dolic who were aggressive from the jump as they scored. The Dragons Rhondorf wanted to get their 3 ball going again and got a trey early from ex Drake (NCAA) guard Antonio Pilipovic as well as lay in´s from rookie Ohio native Tim Smith Jr and ex Coburg center Danas Kazakevicius (207-PF-2005, agency: Highlight Athletes) as the contest was dead locked at 9-9. FC Bayern Basketball 2 attacked the rim more than attempting three´s and were successful with a Nicklas Kodjoe lay in and 2 lay in´s by Marco Frank who kind of had that Ivan Kharchenkov role that led the club last season. The Dragons Rhondorf also preferred to go to the hole Kazakevicius and Las Vegas native Kelvin Omojola scored, but FC Bayern Basketball 2 had the slight 18-17 lead. In the last minutes there would be 2 more lead changes as Rhondorf got valuable support from their bench as young German Kenan Reinhart who last played for the RheinStars Cologne dropped a clutch trey while Pilipovic hit another jumper. FC Bayern Basketball 2 got big support from the bench from 16 year old Serbian talent Andrija Susic who scored 5 points for the 23-22 advantage. However the Dragons Rhondorf still had one play left and got a clutch trey from ex wiha Panthers guard Alex Lagerman who entered the game shooting a lethal 56% to give the Dragons the 25-23 lead after 10 minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 60% from the 2 point range and 43% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 70% from the 2 point range and 33% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 4 turnovers. “We didn´t have the right defensive communication from the first minute. We just didn´t find our rhythm. It was small things like not fouling to stop transition. If we can be consistent then we can be a good defensive team”, stated Janne Muller.

Janne Muller with the jumper

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf were able to get away from FC Bayern Basketball 2 and lead by as much as 10 points, but had to settle for the 7 point lead at the break. Lagerman took the momentum from his first quarter ending trey into the second quarter dancing into the zone and spinning past his opponent for the 27-23 Dragons lead. FC Bayern Basketball 2 then punched back with a mini 4-0 run to tie the game at 27-27. In the run FC Bayern Basketball 2 got a bucket from Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis and a lay in from Montenegro guard Amir Licina. The Dragons Rhondorf then finally were consistent at both ends of the court going on their first big run of the game of 11-0 to take the big 38-27 lead. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf got total team support as Janne Muller added 5 points, Lagerman made a massive dunk on transition, ex Jena center Marco Rahn made a lay in and Kazakevicius made a tip in. The aggressive on ball defense by the Dragons sparked their offense. Omojola was huge in the run getting 2 steals as the Dragons defense didn´t allow anything easy for FC Bayern Basketball 2. FC Bayern Basketball 2 also had problems getting into the paint as the Dragons had heightened their 1-1 defense. In the last minutes, FC Bayern Basketball 2 began to execute better, but couldn´t get stops to creep back as the Dragons also executed. FC Bayern Basketball 2 weren´t hitting three´s so continued to drive to the basket getting buckets from Dolic, Sermpezis and Frank. The Dragons Rhondorf got baskets from ex Orange Academy guard Marco Rosic with an off balance shot, a lay in by Pilipovic and 2 baskets from Kazaskevicius. “We did a good job pressuring their guards and forcing them to tough shots. We had good ball movement, used the pick and pop and ran our transition well”, stated Janne Muller. The Dragons shot 58% from the field and 36% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 7 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 63% from the field and 21% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Niclas Kodjoe from outside

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf exploded for 31 points and decided the game early. FC Bayern Basketball 2 got some baskets early from Kodjoe with a lay in and a trey from Dolic, but the Dragons Rhondorf also executed as Kazakevicius scored 3 baskets and totally dominated inside against Italian big man Alessio Calamita as Rhondorf led 53-42. “Danas was very aggressive on the court. He did a great job scoring and rebounding. I´m really happy for him”, stated Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf began to showcase their total offensive arsenal as now it was time for Tim Smith Jr to score 8 points in a row. The 3 level scorer who compares his game to NBA player Jayson Tatum hit a three pointer, 2 lay in´s including a reverse lay up and made free throws for the 61-44 advantage. FC Bayern Basketball 2 executed well getting more lay in´s from Dolic, Volf and Susic, but couldn´t make any ground as the Dragons Rhondorf continued to execute with ease. After the Smith Jr show, it was time for Janne Muller to show his scoring in bunches abilities as he scored 7 points including a three pointer, off balance shot and mid distance shot. Marko Rosic added a three pointer as the Dragons Rhondorf led 75-53 after 3 quarters. “At half-time coach Marko told us to be aggressive on defense and continue to play with confidence. We did that in the third quarter. We shared the ball well. Scoring has never been a problem for us, but our ball movement can be at times. We did a good job going from defense to offense”, added Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 61% from the 2 point range and 47% from the parking lot and had 33 rebounds and 10 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 62% from the 2 point range and 22% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Tim Smith Jr at the FT line

In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Basketball 2 had their highest offensive scoring quarter with 24, but couldn´t make any ground as the Dragons Rhondorf scored 23 points. Kazakevicius began hot again scoring 5 points including 2 lay in´s as he controlled the paint area. On his 2 hand dunk, he got a nifty no look pass from Antomio Pilipovic who finished the game with 6 assists and once again proved he is like an extra point guard. “His assists and the way he passes the ball doesn´t surprise me. Even if he does make risky passes at times, he has a good eye for his teammates. He is like a magician”, smiled Janne Muller. FC Bayern Basketball 2 added a trey from Licina and a lay in from Calamita but trailed 83-61. Ex Red Deer (JUCO) guard Kelvin Omojola then scored two baskets in a row for the 87-61 lead as the energy level was still very high with the Dragons Rhondorf. After Kodjoe and Kazakevicius traded baskets, FC Bayern Basketball 2 then went on a 10-0 to trail 89-73. In the run FC Bayern Basketball 2 got key support from Dolic and Volf who nailed three´s and 16 year old giant Killian Dueck made a lay in. “We lost some concentration. We put in some of the younger players and we simply made easy mistakes. These mistakes can happen when your up by 26 points”, expressed Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf closed out the game with a 9-4 run. In the run got another trey by Kenan Reinhart, a floater and free throws from Marco Rahn and free throws from Kelvin Omojola. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Danas Kazakevicius with 25 points and 11 rebounds and Janne Muller added 19 points while FC Bayern Basketball 2 was led by Dominik Dolic with 18 points and Marco Frank added 11 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 54% from tehf ield and 38% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 17 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 42% from the field and 24% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Dreams Do Come True as Jeremy Ingram Almost Shed A Tear When He was Signed By Luxemburg First Division Team Avanti Monsdorf

After learning of the Luka Doncic deal on Sunday, I really thought there wouldn´t be much more that could shock me in the basketball world. I mean you could go on an on discussing the Doncic trade and still not get any clarity why the Dallas Mavericks could ever do a deal like this. That was just pure negative shock for me. A few days later I got that shock feeling again, but it was rather positive and pure enjoyment shock if one can name it that. I was checking social media early Tuesday afternoon and there was a post, I had been waiting years for, but had never gotten. The post read FORWARD: JJ Ingram goes off for 30 points in First League Luxembourg against the #1 Team in the Country. I sawthat and at first couldn´t believe it. I went to my message box and there was a message from Jeremy Ingram (183-G-1991, college: AAMU) with the highlight video. It had finally happened. Jeremy Ingram was on a first division team. I mean for years he had been grinding to at least reach the Pro B in Germany as he was dropping 30 points in the Regionalliga almost blindfolded. I mean he would have been ecstatic reaching the pro B, but it was even greater. He was in the first division in Luxemburg. “It felt amazing to be honest, at one point I almost shed a tear because I should have been on this level years ago. But I was just grateful for the opportunity”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. He will enjoy every minute as his contract is for 10 days and 3 games. He lost the first game to T71 scoring 12 points, but found to his game in the second contest exploding for 30 points.

I interviewed Jeremy Ingram who has toiled in the German Regionalliga for 8 seasons with clubs like like Speyer, Idstein, Bensheim, SG Mannheim, TSV Bargteheide and SG Braunschweig more than a month ago where he had told me that after sitting out this season to concentrate on his skills training business, he would resume his playing career next season. And then he surprises the world by landing in Luxemburg. Did he plan this or was this out of the blue? “This offer was completely out the blue. I was actually in Milan, Italy celebrating my birthday when I got the call. I moved there literally 2 days before the 1st game”, said Jeremy Ingram. One big supporter of Jeremy Ingram is Chris Cumings who was his coach in Mannheim and has kept contact for many years. Did Cummings who has good contacts have anything to do with the deal. “No Chris had nothing to do with this. I actually came to workout with this team years ago but I believe I ended up signing to a different team in Germany that year so me and the manager kept contact for all these years. I guess their American got hurt and he thought about me and wanted to give me a chance to step in for a few games”, stated Jeremy Ingram. His new team Avanti are in last place and need as much help as possible. He has 2 main goals in his 10 day stay. “ The main goal is to help these guys get a win because they desperately need it. The other goal is to pretty much show people that I´m here and I should have been here. Maybe more higher league doors will open up for me after this”, warned Jeremy Ingram. It isn´t to difficult to guess what the role of this walking bucket is. “At 1st I was told like every other team I played for to come in and be a point guard. But teams always see how well I score the ball so I always end up with a scorer role on the team. But my main role is to just help win, whatever it takes”, commented Jeremy Ingram. He quickly found good company as there was another American on board with Jake Ross. “Jake is a very nice guy and a very good shooter. Met part of his family and they were also super sweet. He is definitely the 1 person I talked to the most while in Luxembourg. Shoutout to him”, expressed Jeremy Ingram.

Jeremy Ingram who thinks that the Dallas Mavericks made a huge mistake trading Luka Doncic had a massive challenge in his second game battling number one team Etzella that featured some very talented Americans with Jimmie Taylor and Quatarrius Wilson and put up 30 points. It wasn´t difficult for him to find the best comparison to where the first division Luxemburg would rank up to leagues in Germany. “Playing in Etzella’s gym was amazing because it actually felt like a first league gym and their team was very good. Even though we lost I played pretty decent so I was happy about that. I mean dropping 30 on the #1 team in the country is definitely an accomplishment. I would say the league is in between Pro B and Pro A for sure. It is very fast and very competitive though”, said Jeremy Ingram. It seemed like he nailed 30 points without any effort at all especially after viewing the highlight reel. “I can always get to my spots. And if I get to my spots I feel like no one can stop that, it’s just up to me to make my shots. I put up 30 points after really not playing competitive basketball or training for like a whole year so my thoughts are what if I actually started the season with the team or actually practiced more than once before playing maybe I could have been a little more efficient and had a lot more than 30 points”, warned Jeremy Ingram. Even if he has that lethal scoring and incredible knack of showcasing his game 1-1, will he be able to showcase other parts of his game? “ This game specifically called for a lot of scoring because the other team was scoring a lot so we were trying to keep the game as close as possible. I was really the only 1 with a great rhythm this game so I was shooting to score but like I said if I was more in game shape maybe I could have been a little more efficient. But I only had 1 team practice before the game. My team will need me to step up on the defensive end but the whole team will need to step up on the defense side if we expect to get the W. You proved that you can score a lot at a high level”, stressed Jeremy Ingram. So does his chip get a bit easier on the shoulders after having a masterful 30 point game, or does it remain heavy? “I mean I know I can score at any level, it’s the rest of the world that doesn’t seem to know that. The chip will always be there until I hang my jersey up, I think that´s what keeps my drive so strong”, warned Jeremy Ingram. If you watch his Luxemburg highlight reel, you are getting Jeremy Ingram at his best. His ball handling and getting to the hole is incredible. There aren´t many guys in the easyCredit BBL that have those skills in the 1-1. “People always tell me how much they enjoy watching me play basketball. I know guys in the BBL right now who wouldn’t be able to guard my shadow but unfortunately for me it´s all about politics so it don’t matter what I feel I deserve, unless someone wants to give me an opportunity it won’t happen”, added Jeremy Ingram. What more does he have to do to stick out? I believe now that he showed what he can do at the first division in Luxemburg, he may not even have to hope for a job in Germany. He has game to play anywhere. The first division can continue to be his calling now in other countries.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 13

Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats on the huge 81-77 win on the road against Ludwigsburg. The RheinStars won the first game by 27 points. How were they a different team this time?

Thanks. I feel that they made a lot more shots this game and came out with a bunch of energy. Can tell they really wanted to win this one.

Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg led by 8 points at half time. They broke away giving a mix of inside out basketball. Was it tough matching their energy?

Yeah we kind of didn’t have the energy they had in the first half and caught ourselves down at half. We also had to many unnecessary turnovers.

In the third quarter the RhenStars fought back scoring 29 points. What adjustments did you make as a team on the defensive end?

We picked up the energy and the intensity up the second half. Defense was a lot more aggressive that second half than the first and we locked in as a group and our defense led to easy offense.

Crunch-time was very exciting. Ludwigsburg was down 79-77 in the last minute. What was key then for getting the win?

We had to make sure we executed down the stretch on both ends of the court. We had some mistakes but still we ended up making it up in the end.

The RheinStars recently added Maxi Begue and Jonas Flakenstein. What do they bring to the team?

They both can take care of the basketball and run the show on offense. They bring good defense as Maxi had some steals during the game.

The team had 19 steals. How vital was the defense in crunch-time for the win?

The defense definitely showed a difference in the second half and during that crunch time we got stops when we needed them most.

You had a great game at both ends with 16 points and 4 steals and a block. Did your defense carry your offense?

I had good energy this game on the defensive end and that led to easy offensive baskets for me.

You next face the Ahorn Camp Baskets. Cologne escaped with a 86-84 road win despite 29 turnovers of the opponent. What will be key to getting the win?

I think we have to play with more energy this game. We fell behind this past game so we have to come out more urgently this game and not turn the ball over as much this game.

Thanks Malik for the chat.