Predrag Lukic was born in Serbia and grew up in Germany and is one of the most successful European coach in South East Asia. He possesses the coaching degree from DBB and has the FIBA license. He stared as a young coach in Germany, which ranged from Regionalliga to Bundesliga level as well as for women and men teams. He just finished a few months ago his 6th season as Head coach in Asia, crowned as Supporters Cup Champ 2021 in the Vietnam professional League (VBA) with Thang Long Warriors by Audi before the league got Unfortenetely cancelled due of COVID. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Coach, thanks for your time with germanhoops..com and congrats to your last updated successful achievement with your Team in VBA.

Thanks Miles for this Interview with you one of the best Journalists and your website germanhoops.com

You now have your 6th season as coach in Asia, four of them in Vietnam. You are now a veteran coach in the VBA and are one of the most successful there, with, among other things, Coach of The Year 2019, Runners up Trophies etc and, last but not least, the newly crowned Supporters Cup Champ 2021. How is your feeling about, where are you now, still in Vietnam or, tell us about your experiences and how things will continue now for you?

Yes we were first in the standings in the regular season, won the ‘Supporters Cup’ and were the only team to win the quarter-finals in the playoffs and reached the semi-finals. I can say, I’m very proud of my team, staff and club. Unfortunately, the 2021 season ended then prematurely in September due to the pandemic situation. Now I am at home in Serbia and enjoy my time with family. Slowly but surely, I am wondering whether I will extend my contract in Vietnam and thus go into my 5th year there, or whether I will go back to Europe

Are there currently offers from Europe?

Fortunately, there is. In the next few days I’ll make up my mind or see how everything develops. My current club TLW in VBA still have my passion and priority, we should be able to agree on the extension of the contract, which I assume.

There is another great thing, one tweets from our sources, you are a top candidate to take over the Vietnam national team as head coach for the upcoming Sea games? What’s up?

I can’t and do not want to comment on this at the moment. Of course it would be a great honor after my almost 5 years in this beautiful country and steadily growing basketball Enthusiasmus to lead the NT. You would be the first one I inform, if there is a concrete offer on table

Predrag, thanks for your time and happy holidays to you and your family.

Thank you Miles, happy holidays!

Only a few years ago the Niners Chemnitz were in the Pro A trying to move up and any thoughts then that a established team like the Fraport Skyliners could ever lose to them would have been a joke, but how times change. In a span of only 2 years the Niners Chemnitz have become a respected BBL club that have beaten FC Bayern Munich twice in the last two seasons something Frankfurt could only dream of. The Fraport Skyliners are having a season to forget as they were desperately reeling for a win as inconsistency and injuries have plagued them as of late. The Niners arrived in Frankfurt at position 7 having won 5 of their last 6 games under the superb direction of underrated head coach Rodrigo Pastore including having celebrated wins over FC  Bayern Munich and Bamberg while the Fraport Skyliners were in 16^th place riding a three game losing streak. The Fraport Skyliners played a spirited game where they defended with passion, but couldn´t make the needed stops in overtime as the Niners Chemnitz prevailed 82-78. “It was a tough game. I felt that we competed well with all the ups and downs in the game. We played solid defense the whole game. Sometimes it is 50/50 where it can go either way. We lost control of our offense at the end”, stressed Fraport Skyliners head coach Diego Ocampo. The Niners Chemnitz came out with energy and also were able to overcome the highs and lows of the game and made some adjustments in the second half that paid massive dividends. “It was a very difficult game. They are a very dangerous team beating Ulm and Crailsheim. We knew that we would have our hands full. Second chances is a big strength of them. We couldn´t counter it at the start as they got a lot of offensive rebounds. We only allowed a few offensive rebounds in the third quarter. Key to the win was limiting their second chances. But it could of gone either way”, stressed Niners Chemnitz head coach Rodrigo Pastore.

The Fraport Skyliners had fortune as they had key players Will Cherry and Brancou Badio back while the Niners Chemnitz had had Covid problems, but had most guys back except for German Nelson Weidemann. The first quarter was a back and forth tug of war as no team could escape the other as there were 10 lead changes. Fraport Skyliner Quantez Robertson started off hot with a trey, but would have a dismal shooting day, but on defense he quickly sparked the team with two steals which led to transition buckets from Cherry and Badio. The Niners Chemnitz were fueled by their Lithuanuan sniper Minduagas Susinskas who from a distance looks like Franz Wagner stepped up with 8 points. The club was also aided by baskets from ex Marquette American Trent Locket and ex EWE Baskets guard Franz Massenat. Frankfurt also received timely support from Jamel Mclean and Len Schoormann who supplied big baskets. Having ex NBA player Will Cherry back at the point was very noticeable. “He recognizes situations very well and goes there. When there are break downs, he fixes it. He makes good decisions”, stated  Nift Al-Shamal (Iraq-Superleague) guard Jermale Jones. After 10 minutes the Fraport Skyliners had the slim 21-19 edge. Chemnitz shot over 50% and Frankfurt over 40%. It was a pretty even game. Frankfurt played solid defense and rebounded the ball well”, added ex TV Lich guard Jermale Jones.

Both teams stepped up their defense in the second quarter as the contest remained tight as no team could get away form the other as the Fraport Skyliners led 35-32 at the break. After a slow shooting first quarter, Rasheed Moore escaped his funk and made big plays with an offensive rebound and two baskets showing his always aggressiveness around the rim. “Moore put that first quarter behind him. He kept his confidence which helped him step up his game”, stated Jermale Jones. While Frankfurt did a good job doing damage inside, it was Chemnitz that had success with the long ball and simply searched for the easy execution while Frankfurt at times chose the difficult execution which led to missed shots. Chemnitz got big three´s from Wimberg and twice from Susinskas who continued to be a nasty thorn in Frankfurt´s side for the slim 30-28 advantage. Frankfurt fought back and stole the lead back getting to the free throw line getting baskets from Mclean while ex Alba Berlin forward Lorenz Brenneke hit a trey and Schoormann made a floater from the wing.”Chemnitz moved the ball very well and whenever someone was open shot the ball. Frankfurt was more hesitant to shoot. Frankfurt continued to defend very well forcing Chemnitz to tough shots and rebounded the ball well”, said Jermale Jones.

The third quarter continued to be a dog fight as no team could go on a huge run and keep the lead. Ex Virginia(NCAA) forward Darion Atkins who had a stellar 18/12 night began the second half off hot with a tip in, block on Badio and dished out a dime to a Lockett basket that allowed Chemnitz to get the lead back at 36-35. The rapid Chemnitz start didn´t faze the Fraport Skyliners as they upped their intensity as they rattled off a quick 7-0 run to regain the 42-37 lead. Frankfurt did a good job swarming the paint area getting a tip in from rookie Brooks DeBisshop, a Robertson lay in and Moore three pointer. Chemnitz continued to battle back as Frankfurt couldn´t find the right defender to slow down Susinskas who continued to score making  a trey, floater and free throws. Frankfurt got the lead back with a Len Schoormann three pointer 48-46. With both teams over the foul limit, they both landed at the free throw line, but Frankfurt led 55-51 after Jamel Mclean made free throws. Frankfurt continued to be slow with their rotations and left Wimberg open twice and he let it fly and punished Frankfurt with a swift blow of two three´s and the 57-55 Niners lead after 30 minutes. Frankfurt was shooting only35% from the field while the Niners Chemnitz were at 46%. Frankfurt continued to control the boards 30-25 and had the 12-4 offensive rebound edge

In the fourth quarter it looked like the Fraport Skyliners might be able to pull it out, but the Niners Chemnitz always had an answer and forced overtime. Susinskas began the fourth quarter with a lay in after getting the back door pass from ex SMU(NCAA) forward Isaiah Miles, but Frankfurt struck back tying the game at 59-59 as Schoormann once again displayed his brutal athleticism going coast to coast for a lay in in traffic. Chemnitz than retrieved the lead back taking advantage of Frankfurt´s weak 1-1 defense as Lockett snuck inside easily for two points and Atkins made an alley op tap in for the 64-59 lead. The concentration of Frankfurt faltered as every so often after a huge offensive play, they would come right back and give up easy points. Basketball is a game of runs and the Fraport Skyliners erupted for a 9-0 run to take the 68-64 lead. In the run they got a Moore bullet three, Robertson free throws, a Lukas Wank runner and Mclean lay in. Big defensive plays sparked their offense. But Chemnitz never gave up getting an Atkins tap in and a 25 footer from the wing from Lockett to dead lock the game at 68-68 as the guests showed their best ball movement of the evening. Atkins then made a turn around shot for the 70-68 Chemnitz lead and with 37 seconds to play, Frankfurt got another clutch basket from Moore. Frankfurt then got a huge stop and had plenty of time to win the game, but Badio missed a dunk attempt when he could of made the easy lay up. “We were lucky we got the stop. We forced a tough shot on Badio. I was scared that he might score”, added Trent Lockett. “Frankfurt should of won the game. They had the easy lay up. Why go for the dunk”, stressed Jermale Jones. Frankfurt had 8 more possessions and 8 more offensive rebounds, but landed in overtime. The overtime period was tight and the Fraport Skyliners had the lead with 46 seconds to go, but couldn´t conserve the lead. With Badio putting up brick after brick, it was Rasheed Moore that became the go to guy. Chemnitz got big baskets form Massenat and Susinskas and Moore made a lay in off a Mclean shovel pass and then nailed a trey for the 78-77 lead. But Frankfurt couldn´t get stops as Wimburg connected on a trey from the corner for the 80-78 lead with 30 seconds to play. Moore then missed and Atkins sealed the victory with free throws. “Every player on the team works hard. We have confidence in each guy to take the big shot. Niklas came up big”, stated Trent Lockett. “Frankfurt made bad decisions in the last 2 minutes. Instead of making easy lay ups, they made it hard for themselves. The defensive rotation was off on that last three by Wimburg”, stressed Jermale Jones. The Niners Chemnitz were led by Minduagas Susinkas with 27 points. Darion Atkins added 18 points and 12 rebounds and Trent Lockett had 13 points while the Fraport Skyliners were led by Rasheed Moore with 17 points while Jamel Mclean and Len Schoormann had 13 points  a piece. The Niners Chemnitz shot 46% form the field and 39% from outside and had 40 rebounds and 20 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 35% from the field and 30% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 1 3 turnovers.

Terrell Harris (191-G-93, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Players Group) is a 28 year old 190cm guard from Indiantown, Florida that finished his fifth professional season and second with the NINERS Chemnitz (Germany-ProA) averaging 11,4ppg, 3,3rpg and 3,9apg. He will play his sixth professional season with the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. In 2019-2020 in the Pro A with the Ninners he averaged 14,1ppg, 2,6rpg and 5,0apg. In 2018-2019 he played with the Rostock Seawolves (Germany-ProA) averaging 13.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 66.3%. Three seasons ago he played with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-Ligaen) playing 24 games averaging 17.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.3%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 71.6%. In his rookie season he played with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB) averaging 18,1ppg, 4,3rpg and 1,8apg. He started his basketball career at Mars Hill (NCAA2) in 2011 and then moved to Georgia College in 2012. As a senior he played 29 games averaging 24.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 76.8%. He concluded his college basketball career winning the All-PeachBelt Player of the Year 2016. Harris spoke togermanhoops.com after the magical 77-68 win over FC Bayern Munich.

Congrats Terrell on the amazing 77-68 win over FC Bayern Munich. Take us into the locker room How does one celebrate Merlins style after a win like this?

We celebrate every win together with laughs and some music then we are on to the next one. It doesn’t matter if it’s Bayern, Bamburg, or Fibaeurocup on to the next. It’s going to be a long season.

You have beaten FC Bayern Munich twice in two seasons. Some teams don’t beat FC Bayern Munich ever. Last season Dominique Johnson beat Munich on a buzzer beater and today it was the Merlins defense. How do you personally compare this win to the thrilling Thornton buzzer beater one?

But today was more of a grinder out low scoring game. We got stops when we needed to so we were able to win comfortably.

The Merlins began quickly leading 7-0 and led 22-11 after one quarter. Could you see the shock on the faces of FC Bayern Munich?

Bayern do a lot of traveling, teams like that you have to play with energy and try to get out ahead early because it’s a matter of time they wake up which they did. It wasn’t a surprise at all since we wanted to get off to a great start.

What does it say of the fight and talent of the Merlins when TJ Shorts didn’t even make a field goal in the first quarter?

TJ is a dawg, very competitive with a lot of heart. He’s fearless, he can create his shit anytime so we never worry about him. Just a matter of time before he sees one go end and then the basket gets big for him

In the second quarter FC Bayern Munich fought back. KC Rivers led the attack scoring 17 points. Was that the best single player performance in a quarter that you have seen since arriving in the BBL?

He’s a smooth player I didn’t realize he scored 17 until halftime. He got going on the low block and with his jumper.

Did you know coming in that he could be so overpowering? What made it so difficult to keep him under wraps?

He’s very strong he started to post us up and use his strength. Not too many players in this league can do all 3. From the three, dribble, and post up from the guard position.

What did head coach Sebastian Gleim tell you guys at half time and what adjustments did you make on defense to allow only 13 points?

Just to keep playing and live with tough jumpers, we will always have a chance when our defense is clicking.

With the Merlins up 62-58 you nailed a three pointer with 5,45 to play. This was very instrumental in the Merlins not allowing FC Bayern Munich to get over the hump. How good does it I general feel making a shot like this compared to when you made big shots in the Pro B with Iserlohn back in the day?

I try to do whatever the team needs at the moment.

What was key down the stretch for not allowing FC Bayern Munich to get over the hump? Did they ever reach an offensive rhythm on the night?

We just tried to stay active and clean the boards since they have a good team it’s Bayern. They weren’t making shots so we were able to get out and run some.

KC Rivers only scored 6 points in the second half. What key adjustments did you make to limit his lethal scoring?

We played the same, he didn’t post up a lot the second half. We were very alert wherever he was on the court.

68 points was the least amount that FC Bayern Munich have scored in the easyCredit BBL this season. Was this the Merlins best defensive effort of the season?

We played a few good defensive games vs Hamburg and Ludwisburg so it’s probably up there.

Please explain how the team defense could allow the top BBL team to only 68 points on 3 steals and forcing only 6 turnovers? That is something one won’t see often.

Just staying active and crashing the boards and they also missed some shots as well.

I can’t imagine there have been many BBL teams that have beaten FC Bayern Munich with only one guy in double figures. How did the team chemistry and unselfishness grow another step tonight?

We just tried to share the ball as much as possible and then in the fourth TJ did what he do best closed the game for us.

What step did head coach Sebastian Gleim make with this win? This was without a doubt his biggest BBL win so far?

He very competitive but it’s a long season we don’t dwell on wins and losses because we have quick turnarounds

The Hakro Merlins next face your ex team Niners Chemnitz. How excited are you to play your ex team? What words of praise will you give Rodrigo Pastore when you see him again?

I’m also excited to play every team. Chemnitz has a good team so I’m sure it will be a battle from start to finish. It’s all love and good energy between us. He gave me my first chance to play BBL and I will never forget that so best of luck to him with his coaching career.

What was your favorite childhood Xmas memory and what do you enjoy most about Christmas in Germany?

When we were little we used to always get bikes and ride them around the neighborhood all day for Xmas, like a bike crew. Now days in Germany I enjoy the markets but due to Covid the markets are closed.

2022 is around the corner. Do you have any New Years resolutions lined up?

No resolutions just continue being the best version of myself and staying healthy

Thanks Terrell for the chat.

                Guys that I particularly love to cover are those guys that never got anything for free and always had to prove themselves thus never losing that drive to grind in the gym until the janitor throws them out and turns off the lights. One simply doesn´t see many players coming from NCAA 2 schools make the trek overseas and get rewarded with that professional contract. You see more of these talented players that are talented, but forever reason were off the radar of division 1 schools pop up in lower country leagues in Europe, but every so often they also appear in division one leagues in Europe. One of these special players is Justin Briggs who landed in Austria and is playing his second professional season for the Kapfenberg Bulls. He played college ball at Chico State(NCAA2) that have produced many great players, but seldom guys that have gone overseas. There was a actually one graduating class 2005 where they didn´t send one player to Germany, but four with Will Bonner, Andy Butcher, Tim Haley and Jason Van Eck. Ten years later Chico State had another special player called Amir Carraway who played three seasons in Germany. He finished school a year before Justin Briggs came on board at Chico State, but his legacy left a lasting impression on the young center. “What comes to mind when I hear the name Amir Carraway is a Friend, Mentor, and Leader who has always been open to reaching out to me and giving me advice as well as being there to work out and train with during off seasons. He understands what it takes to play at a high professional level and also knows what it takes to get there from where we both started so it is always good hearing advice from him”, stated Justin Briggs. But not only does Justin Briggs have that love for Amir Carraway, but the love is mutual. “Justin Briggs is going to be a high level big for many years to come. It only takes a couple of down and backs to see the talent. I had a chance to watch him play a few times in college and by no surprise; he’s finally getting the opportunity to showcase his talent. He’s a student of the game and has a great basketball IQ. He has good hands and rebounds the ball at a high rate. Both things you can’t teach. I’ve seen him go against lottery picks and #1 overall selection while in college and there’s no surprise that those experiences and work ethic has gotten him to the pro ranks. I expect him to excel even more as he adjusts to the pro level. For some reason Division II doesn’t get the credit it deserves as there are a handful of guys currently playing at the NBA level”, warned Amir Carraway. Briggs is an exciting player that wants to leave his mark on European basketball as well as make his school Chico State proud. His game continues to change and evolve as his mentality of always having to prove himself will help him progress.

            Justin Briggs who lists Isaiah Brooks, Robert Duncan, Mike Bethea Jr., AJ Turner, and  Isaiah Ellis as his five best teammates of all-time was born on September 19th, 1997 in Okinawa, Japan and grew up in West Sacramento, California. He attended River city High school and then attended Chico State(NCAA2) from 2015-2020. After a redshirt year, he began his NCAA 2 career in 2016 averaging 8.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.9bpg, FGP: 53.3%, FT: 47.7%. Right away as a freshman, he reached the NCAA 2 Elite 8. “This was one of the most memorable moments there because of the talent we had on the team that year as well as how far we made it that year. It was a great experience that a lot of people don’t get to see in their college career even if it was Division 2 it was a great accomplishment from me and that group of guys we had”, stated Justin Briggs. In his second year he averaged 8.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 54.2%. He displayed special consistency with scoring and rebounding and in his junior season averaged.8.8ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 46.2%. His game took greater strides in his senior season as he averaged 11.7ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 51.3%. He was forced into a new role and knew that he had to take control and heighten his game. “We lost some veteran players my junior year and I knew in order for our team to make another NCAA appearance I would need to step up as a scorer as the only senior that was playing on the team at the time. My game developed with each game as well as our team chemistry and the connection I had with my point guard helped as well”, remembered Justin Briggs. In his four year career, he scored in double figures in 44 games.

            The California native who has Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Shaquille O’Neil, and Jamal Crawford on his own personal NBA Mount Rushmore helped the school reach three CCAA tournament semi-finals and will never forget two of his last games at Chico State against CS Stanislaus where he lost 78-77 and 75-73. “Those we’re probably the closest back to back games that I played in college especially since we played the same team twice and those games ended up going to overtime so that is always going to be a great game to remember and I had a high school friend Xavier who played on the CSU Stanislaus team and we still talk about those games”, expressed Justin Briggs. Even if the Elite 8 loss to Lincoln Memorial was long ago, it was an experience that really helped him grow as a player at Chico State. Playing against very good talent with future NBA player Emmanuel Terry and Luquon Choice who would go overseas to Germany and being tested at any early stage of his NCAA 2 career was very important in his early development. “Playing them in the Elite 8 was a good experience and it showed the level of physicality that needed to be increased after each round of the tournament in order to be successful. They had talented players that were physically more aggressive than us and that was a lesson that I kept with me going forward through my basketball career”, commented Justin Briggs. Some of his best games in the NCAA 2 occurred against CS Los Angeles where he poured in 23 points and against CS East Bay and Azusa Pacific where he added 21 points apiece. One individual who was instrumental in him being a consistent player and maturing into a professional player was head coach George Clink. “Playing for Greg Clink was a great experience. His basketball knowledge was excellent and I hear and use a lot of his coaching points that he taught me in the professional basketball games that I’ve played in so far. He expected great things from his players and brought out the full potential in all of us. He has coached a handful of players that have went on to play overseas and I’m sure he will continue to develop new talent”, warned Justin Briggs.

            The American who remembers Deandre Ayton who currently plays for the Phoenix Suns was his toughest opponent in an exhibition game during his school time is one of those rare players that went through COVID during school and then had to find a professional team during the hard times. In 20 years he will always be able to say he had to go through all these restrictions and had to adapt to a new lifestyle overseas which obviously wasn´t easy. “The biggest obstacle when Covid was in its early stages was how we as players and staff should go about our season. We had just made the NCAA Tournament and there were rumors about it being canceled at the time or postponed and it was difficult to understand the severity of Covid at the time because of the lack of knowledge and information about the virus. Once I made my way to Austria the biggest difference was playing in empty arenas with no fans and trying to come out each day and play with energy and intensity when each game had a sort of “Practice Feel” to it”, said Justin Briggs. COVID also made him look at life a lot differently than before COVID had reared it´s ugly head into everybody´s life. “Covid personally made me understand not to take simple things for granted, such as fans, social life, and even travel. It limits what you can do and when you can do things so this past year I just kept telling myself if I can make it through a season with Covid restrictions, empty gyms, and limited travel I will be able to make it through any season and strive from here on out in my career”, warned Justin Briggs. He had to really fight for that first rookie gig as the whole transfer period was difficult and different for the 20-21 season because of COVID than ever before. But he stuck through it and signed a contract in Austria in January 2021. “When I wasn’t playing and didn’t sign in the beginning of the 2020-21 season I was down on myself at first but not discouraged. I was training everyday staying game ready and healthy even when the phone wasn’t buzzing with opportunities I had faith as well as patience and knew they would eventually come. I knew the biggest obstacle would be getting a good first job overseas that would lay out the framework for the start of my career and once I got the job I knew I had to prove that I belonged there”, stressed Justin Briggs. He never forgot that he came from the NCAA 2 and has that special mentality that from now on nothing will come easy even after he proves himself. That mentality to always have to prove himself is something that will never go away. “It was a blessing getting the call in January 2021 to come and play in Austria and prove myself as a professional Talent and to then play for the rest of the 2020-21 season and get the call that they wanted me to resign for another season in a starting role it was even more of a testament to my hard work and dedication that I have put into myself as well as the organization. Coming from Division 2 you always have to work harder than the next guy and prove yourself before you get the respect and recognition and that is what this year is all about”, warned Justin Briggs who beat Chico State teammate Marvin Timothy in one on one battles back in the day.

            Last season as a rookie in Austria with Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) the ex NCAA 2 player who thinks Lebron James is the greatest to ever play played 23 games averaging 5.3ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 63.3%, FT: 50.0%;and played 3 FIBA Europe Cup games averaging 2,0 and 1,7rpg. He right away got a great feel of what playoff basketball is all about overseas witnessing an opening round 5 game series win over Vienna, then sweeping Wels and then losing a tough 4 game final series against top club Gmunden. He also played Fiba Europe Cup getting a first taste of international club basketball. He also was lucky to have been teammates with Austrian legend and ex ACB player Thomas Schreiner and ex German Pro A player Alex Herrera. “Thomas was a great teammate who shed a ton of knowledge to me as a first year rookie We would watch game film together and he would show me clips on how to be more efficient as well as point out how to be effective while me and him are on the court together. When it comes to Alex it was great playing against him every day in practice, before I had arrived Alex was the only 5 position and once I got there he didn’t take it easy on me we both worked extremely hard to get each other better and prepared for games. It was always great battling with him and also learning from him each and every day”, stated Justin Briggs. This season Kapfenberg has added some new pieces and want to get back to it´s winning ways from 2017-2019 where they won three straight titles. “With the Covid season last year it took a toll on the basketball in the club and we are eager to get back to the standard we were once at in the past. We have a lot of goals to meet this season and we are excited to work towards them day by day”, added Justin Briggs. Two players that bring their own special qualities to the team and feed Briggs in the paint are veteran Kareem Jamar and Joshua Scott. “The biggest aspect that I get from Kareem Jamar is his knowledge of the game as well as his knowledge of the program since he was a part of those winning seasons in past years winning the Austrian cup and being a league champion. Playing with Joshua Is also a fun experience because he is a high energy player just like myself who is quick and explosive and also takes the time to learn each and every day in order to get accustomed to the team and get comfortable leading our team in the point guard position”, expressed Justin Briggs.

            The big man who felt that the classic Coming To America should have been left alone is a 208cm center that has a game that is similar to NBA player Karl Anthony Towns. He is a solid post player that can hit the jump shot and be efficient on the pick and roll. He is also an active player at both ends of the court. “My game is always changing and evolving with each passing day but I would like to say that I am a big that plays in the low post with vision to find the open man passing out of the post, playing one on one from the mid post as well as the low post, and when open knocking down the Three pointer/Mid Range. & With pick and rolls I like to make the read on how my defender plays it and make plays out of catching the roll pass and finishing or creating for a shooter”, stressed Justin Briggs. But he so much more than just an offensive presence, but also a player that has a potent defensive game that will definitely help him move up the basketball ladder in the next years should that develop as well as his offensive game does. In the NCAA 2 he averaged 1,5bs per game in his four year career and he hopes to continue to be that rim protector at the professional level. “I am a good post defender who moves well on any kind of ball screen defense and I typically come from the help side to get my blocked shots when we have guards driving to the basket or posting up on the opposite side of me. I want to consistently execute our teams defensive schemes perfectly so that teams are forced into rushed shots. I also guard different positions well on the perimeter when we go into a switch situation and I am switched out on a smaller offensive player”, said Justin Briggs. He definitely has a game that will keep developing in the next years and it will be exciting to see what next opportunities he chooses and how well he can adapt to new styles of play in different countries. But for now he has a game that will definitely turn heads in Austria. He will never be satisfied with the last big game, because he has that mentality that he always has to prove himself. He simply doesn´t know any better.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball

Congrats on the big 111-91 win over Team Ehingen. How good does this win feel a day before Christmas Eve?
Feels good to win, it was a good team win in all. Glad we were able to go on the road against a scrappy Ehingen team and prevail.

PS Karlsruhe had the slim 57-53 advantage at the break. What was difficult on the defensive end in trying to keep the Team Ehingen off the board?

Ehingen got off to a great start, they were getting easy looks, they were pushing the ball from our turnovers and making us pay. They had it rolling which carried their confidence as a team and we just couldn’t quite disrupt their rhythm in the first half.

After 30 minutes Ps Karlsruhe had the lead. What was key in the third quarter for keeping the lead?

Key in the 3rd quarter was just to establish some resistance on the defensive end. We know if we play one possession defense we can get out running and share the basketball at a high level, so it all started on defense!

In the fourth quarter you put the nail on the coffin and kept them better in check. What was the biggest strength on defense?

The biggest strength was our rotations got better, our communication improved and we forced them to take tougher contested shots!

What was the bigger strength on the evening the rebounding or the team timely and consistent three point shooting?

They both played a huge part, however without defending well we can’t get out running and find shooters, we shot the ball well from 3 tonight. Glad we had some success with that.

Triple doubles are rare in the Pro A. What was your impression of Tyler Cheese who was everywhere on the court?

He’s a good player, has the freedom and trust from his team to play that way, and I’m sure his team expects that from him. It was a good battle with him.

PS Karlsruhe had 6 guys in double figures. Was this the team’s best offensive performance of the season?

From the Total points scored (111) I think that says it was but I think we still can improve

. The team is on a 4 game wining streak since Trevion Crews arrived. How much has this guys arrival sparked the confidence of the team?

We just been a solid rhythm. With the addition of Trev and Moyer they bring us a renewed energy and gives us depth. So we are just trying to keep it rolling.

Is the team playing it’s best basketball of the season? What will be key in beating Rostock?

I think we’re in the nice rhythm right now. Keys to that game will be high level of energy, high level of focus, playing a high level of defense and executing at a high level as well.

You had another fine game of 23/9/6. How much better are you a player when everyone is involved?

That’s the name of the game sharing the ball, and playing together as a team. It helps me and makes the game smoother for myself.

What kind of Stanley Whittaker will we see in the second half of the season as you fight for the playoffs?

A continued version of myself, just want to remain in rhythm and taking it day by day, step by step.

What was your favorite present for Christmas as a kid?

My favorite present as a kid maybe was a remote controlled toy car, they we’re always a great gift!

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-94, college: Keiser) is a 27 year old 183cm point guard from Philadelphia playing his third professional season and first in Germany with PS Karlsruhe. He played his rookie season in Lithuania and last season had his break through with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) playing 24 games: Score-2 (21.5ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-2 (8.0apg), Steals-1 (2.6spg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.4%. He played his college ball at Frank Phillips (JUCO) and Keiser (NAIA). He teams up every week with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber to talk basketball

Congrats on the huge 109-94 win again Bochum. Shoot outs are always risky. How worried should a team be about their defense when they are involved in a shoot out?

Teams shouldn’t want to be involved in a shootout. Well, at least that shouldn’t be how teams prepare. The game of basketball presents different challenges, so I can understand if that happens. But definitely shouldn’t be how teams prepare.

The first half was tight as PS Karlsruhe led only 53-45. Why couldn’t you get away as a team?

It’s a long game, we knew we wouldn’t beat this team in 20 minutes, we had to put together a full 40 minute effort to secure the victory. In which we did, glad we were able to protect home court!

In the second half, PS Karlsruhe was never in danger of losing as you led by double figures for most of the half. What do you believe was most key today for getting the victory?

– The thing that helped us secure the victory was our continuous effort to playing a good defense and finishing possessions, once we were able to string together good stops, we got into a nice rhythm offensively! Rebounding was a big plus.

How key was Tom Alte’s energy tonight for keeping that energy on the glass?

Tom has been great for us, we believe in him and expect that from him night in and night out. I’m just glad he’s on our side!

What was it like battling veteran guard Tony Hicks? Do you watch game film of players like him leading up to the game?

It was nice going up against Hicks, very quick and aggressive guard. And I do my homework on the opponent’s leading up to the game, it’s part of my preparation.

You and Trevion Crews continue to be a wrecking crew combining for 55 points and 15 assists. You guys have played a few weeks together. How much better can your chemistry still get?

We can still continue to build, this is only our second game with one another so there’s a lot more we can learn as well. So we’re just looking forward to getting better daily and helping the team.

The addition of Crews has been a big Christmas gift. How do you guys compliment each other best?

I think we’re both just have a decent feel for the game, we’re both unselfish and just want to win basketball games!

Are you afraid that opponents may start to key in on both of you to slow you down?

I’m not afraid, no reason to be afraid. Teams will game plan and strategize on how to limit opportunities for me, but it’s my job to continue to find ways to be aggressive and make plays for my teammates, as well as be myself.

You had a strong game of 31 points and 7 assists. No turnover is a good one. How do you summarize how your 5 turnovers happened?

I had a couple unforced turnovers from being a bit indecisive on play opportunities where I could’ve got downhill but I was too hesitant and lost my footing. I just have to do a better job of taking care of the basketball and value each possession more.

You next play a big game in Ehingen. What will be key for the win?

The key to the game against Ehingen is to have a good preparation in this week of practice, if we take care of basketball, get back in transition and finish possessions, we give ourselves a solid chance.

What is your favorite Christmas movie?

My favorite Christmas movies are, the home alone series, bad Santa one and two are good. So I’ll go with them.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

After the thrilling victory over top team Dresden Titans and then a free weekend, the EPG Baskets were brought back down to earth with a tough and unnecessary loss on the road in Erfurt last weekend. It was just one of those games where nothing worked on the offensive end as Koblenz shot only 18% from the parking lot and lost the rebound battle. They defended well, but when the offense isn’t clicking and shots aren’t falling, then it will be difficult to win. The good news for the EPG Baskets Koblenz was that they didn’t have to wait long for revenge as they could go into the short Christmas break with a win against them in their own living room. Honestly a team with the overwhelming talent and depth like the EPG Baskets Koblenz have should never lose to a team like the Basketball Lowen Erfurt. The day before Christmas Eve, the EPG Baskets Koblenz welcomed the Basketball Lowen Erfurt and finally got revenge after their disappointing 74-62 last weekend with a hard fought and well deserved 73-63 victory. For 30 minutes, it was a very even game where no club could break away, but in the fourth quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz took control playing their best quarter of defense. ‘We knew that this wouldn’t be an easy game. You can’t underestimate them. We didn’t try to do special things like we did in Erfurt, but tonight just played our game. When we play like that for 40 then we are strong and when we do that sooner or later teams will fall apart. We played our game and were solid and never got irritated’, stressed ex Ehingen forward Brian Butler (196-F-91). The Basketball Lowen Erfurt played a very strong defensive game for 30 minutes and in a few times had Koblenz reeling, but couldn’t take advantage and break away. In the fourth quarter, they caved in as Koblenz finally found a consistent offensive rhythm which they couldn’t control. ‘I knew this wouldn’t be an easy game. We knew that they would be ready for us and weren’t happy after losing to us last weekend. Saying that we had a long ride here and that key players were playing many minutes are baby excuses. Koblenz is a very good team. We have to perform a lot better. We had way too many defensive mental mistakes and couldn’t get the ball where we wanted to on offense. We didn’t shoot well as didn’t our key players. We missed many shots which gave them many opportunities for easy points’, stressed Basketball Lowen Erfurt head coach Uvis Helmanis.

The first quarter quickly demonstrated that this would be a defensive battle as no clubs got easy looks. The EPG Baskets Koblenz got on the board first with a trey from American Shembari Phillips and defensively they stopped Erfurt’s first 4 possessions. After a free throw the guests took their first lead 4-3 on a catch and pop jumper from crafty and ex Eimsbuetteler TV Hamburg guard Tyseem Lyles. Erfurt was defending really well being very compact and not allowing Koblenz to get good looks. But the good Koblenz defense allowed them to retake the lead with some easy transition baskets from Philipps and ex BBL player Dominique Johnson for the 9-5 advantage. The tide in the game would go back and forth as Erfurt went on a mini 7-0 run as they kept beating Koblenz on back door cuts as Dominykas Pleta scored twice on that play and Lyles hit another three pointer for the 12-9 lead. The EPG Baskets Koblenz recovered hitting Erfurt back with a 8-2 run to take the 17-14 lead after one quarter. Key in the run was new player Ugandan forward Emmanuel Womalla who gave energy at both ends with 2 buckets. ‘He is very athletic and is a real team player. He is also a fine defender and has accepted his role. He is a very important rotation player’, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. Brian Butler made a tap in to end the first quarter. ‘We defended very well except for allowing 5 back door cuts. We didn’t penetrate enough. We controlled Edi very well’, expressed EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein.

The second quarter continued to be a real duel as there were 8 lead changes as no team could really get away from the other , but the EPG Baskets Koblenz had the slim 42-37 advantage at the break. A recipe for success for Koblenz was that they finally attacked the rim more and were rewarded as Butler, Meyer and Heckel executed while the guests got some baskets from Edi and ex Fraport Skyliner Noah Kamdem, but Koblenz led 25-22. A 8-0 run by the EPG Baskets Koblenz gave them the 29-22 lead as Brian Butler continued to be a work horse. ‘Erfurt was unconcentrated. We took advantage of it, but should of led by more than we did’, expressed EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein. Runs were being made left as right as the guests struck back with a 8-0 run to retake the 30-29 lead. In the run, Erfurt was aided by a Edi three pointer, two Lyles free throws and a massive one handed dunk by Noah Kamdem who out danced Leo Saffer on the baseline. Koblenz got away from their routine offense and played a little too fancy which led to turnovers on the run. The EPG Baskets Koblenz now kept control and the lead, but Erfurt stayed on their heels. Koblenz got some vital baskets from Saffer and Johnson (3/10) who had an off shooting night and Heckel for the 39-34 lead. A three point play by Kamdem cut the Koblenz lead to 39-37, but Saffer saved the best for last unleashing a bullet buzzer beater shot away from the basket that was thrown like a baseball pitcher as their was no rainbow in it. ‘It was a back and forth game. No team could get away form the other. We made easy mistakes, but still kept the lead. That last second shot by Saffer was a nice shot that had about a 1% chance of going in’, smiled EPG Baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein.

The third quarter continued to be a close fought affair as the EPG Baskets Koblenz had no offensive rhythm and the Basketball Lowen Erfurt couldn’t take advantage of it as they trailed 54-53 after 30 minutes. Ex Giessen guard Lucas Mayer got Koblenz on the board first with a transition bucket giving Koblenz the 44-37 advantage. But in the set play, the EPG Baskets Koblenz were playing far under their expectations and their three ball was nonexistent as brick after brick were being heaved up. The Basketball Lowen Erfurt took advantage of this going on a lethal 7-0 run to dead lock the contest at 44-44. In the run, Kamdem used his football like body to muscle home two points, Pleta nailed a trey and Lyles connected on a lay in. Ex Bremerhaven guard Marvin Heckel then drooped a rare three as Koblenz was shooting apathetic 2/17 from outside for the 47-44 lead. Erfurt continued to chip away and actually took the lead again getting to the free throw line with Kamdem and Edi baskets and the 51-49 advantage. Heckel gave Koblenz the lead back 52-51with another trey as he was the only stable shooter, but that was soon dissolved as German Jan Heber grabbed a loose ball and made the lay in for the 53-52 lead. But Estonian guard Indrek Sunelik ended the third quarter with a smart play scoring on an inbounds play under the Erfurt basket for the slim 54-53 lead. ‘We didn’t have concentration. Our three was instable and we didn’t have comfort in taking our shots. We were very lucky to have the lead. We didn’t have control of the game. Erfurt was more organized on offense and took better shots and finished better’, stated EPG baskets Koblenz manager Thomas Klein.

In the fourth quarter it was lights out for the Basketball Lowen Erfurt as the EPG Baskets Koblenz took control of the game and won. Even if ex Breitengussbach guard Miles Osei was able to score twice and match the two buckets of Sunelik I the first two minutes, it was the Koblenz Estonian guard who gave his team the needed energy to get their self-confidence up. With Koblenz having the tight 59-57 lead, they then slammed the door on the guests with a ruthless 12-0 run to lead 71-59 and decide the game. In the run it was ex easycredit BBL player Dominque Johnson who had been shut down on offense for 30 minutes, but had defended Erfurt’s best player Edi well finally found his shooting touch scoring 10 of his 11 game points nailing 2 three’s and four free throws while Butler made a pretty alley-oop dunk from the Heckel feed. Koblenz finally found their offensive touch and with every made shot heightened their self-confidence. Koblenz also raised their defensive intensity which Erfurt couldn’t match with their offense. The Basketball Lowen Erfurt did close out the game with a 6-2 run with baskets from Pleta, Heber and Kamdem, but it was too little too late. ‘We knew that if we would keep playing our defense then they would get tired. They have a short rotation and when we play high pressure defense, then they cave in. Everybody did a great job today no matter if they played 2 or 30 minutes’, stressed Brian Butler. ‘We did get tired. Our defensive intensity went down. We did accomplish one goal. We wanted to keep them under 12 points. That way we will be ahead of them in the even points’, stated Uvis Helmanis. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Marvin Heckel with 17 points and Brian Butler added 16 points. The Basketball Lowen Erfurt were led by Noah Kamdem with 20 points and Tysem Lyles and Guy Edi added 10 points a piece. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 42% from the field and 23% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 17 turnovers while the Basketball Lowen Erfurt shot 37% from the field and 24% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 23 turnovers.

Joe Asberry is an American ex professional basketball player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. Since retiring from the game, he has been a spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, guest speaker, worked in the Alba Berlin organization, been a master of ceremonies for UBC Hannover and been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball player. Currently he works with young inspiring basketball kids and in 2020, he began his entertaining and educational Podcast called No Plan B. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his new project with internationalball.tv

Joe you will be calling games and doing interviews for internationalball.tv for the Canadian market. How excited are you about this project?

A big shout out to Tom Rajabzadeh and http://www.internationalball.tv I can’t thank him enough for the opportunity. I called games for my guys the Goch Twins with the UBC Tigers from Statliga to the Pro A in Hannover,BBL games for Hans Witsch at his tournmanent ,and for my guy “Hilly” (Alexander Hillman) so I look foward to call the games in Italy

What do you believe is your biggest strength in being able to call games and interview players?

My biggest strength calling games will be that I have been underneath bright lights and pressure on a high level in America. When players make great plays I go nuts,if they make mistakes,I’ll skip right over it because it’s a part of basketball. No shade or hate on mine.I tell people,don’t talk wreckless about PRO Basketball players that you know on your best day you can’t GUARD.

How beneficial do you think it is to have your other project,
No Plan B podcast to break into the world of Broadcasting?

A big shout out to the homey Rene Weimann. He turned me onto the podcast game ,and I love putting the underdogs storys out there. The key to the podcast is that I want to show all of the dudes who think they can just come to Europe and get paid to play basketball,that they’re all DELUSIONAL. All of our guests have paid dues,and they deserve to get paid to hoop. As for our retired guests I want their storys out there so the next generation can know what the people here in Europe expect out of a PRO,and give them the respect they deserve

What do you enjoy the most about commentating on basketball games I’m sure your unique personality will be in top form ?

My favorite part of play by play will be when someone catches a nasty dunk.I’m going to go nuts,that’s why I’m a Demar Derozoan,Kevin Yebo,and Brian Butler groupy LOL

Tell us a bit about your partner in Crime Miles Schmidt Scheuber,a guy you have known for a long time that will join you along this journey? Miles has been known to call games with passion, have nicknames for players and having the last famous question in his interviews” What is the last movie you saw”?

To go on this journey with Miles is awesome. We talked about working together back when I was calling BBL games for Hans and now it’s going to happen Miles is the best announcer here in Germany without a doubt in my opinion,so all I have to do is follow his lead. Of course I’m a natural born entertainer,so I’ll hold up my end of the bargan LOL

Do you have any special features planned for the calls and interviews?

The only special question I will ask is which Coach believed in you. I love that because there were a few coaches who didn’t believe in me and I proved ALL OF THEM WRONG. I’m into revenge for sure LOL

You will also do interviews with players who are not on the pro basketball radar to help put them on the map. As a guy who saw it all playing in lower leagues in Germany,Finland and Luxembourg,how beneficial will this platform be for them?

It’s simple. I love to help the guys who are off the radar,because I was the guy off the radar. I had one foot in a Jail Cell until Pat Elzie got me a job in Braunschweig. I’ll always be loyal to him and I’ll always cry like a baby when I got to Alte Waage in Braunschweig,of course I’ll hide from the kids who look up to me in a bathroom

What is your goal as a former pro player to get stated in the interviews?

The interviews are the most important part of the project for me. I love helping people who are humble and have REAL pro basketball skillsets reach their goal to get PAID to play. The icing on the cake is doing games with Miles. I can’t predict the future but I hope the project is a success and helps Miles call games here in the BBL in English.So my petty butt can sit back,drink my Big German beer,and scream at my Flat Screen, Hello Magenta,I told you that this was the dude you guys needed all along LOL

One of the biggest obstacles that little known players face is being a legend in their own mind. Please explain what a player needs to know and do in order to be able to overcome any difficulty in being able to have a professional career that will last?

Most players are legends in their OWN MINDS. They find out here in Europe that you’re NOBODY until your team wins. The club moves up from lower leagues,or wins a Championship in the top leagues. You’re 1 of many guys who can ball. I came to Europe humble. I played vs David Robinson when he was at NAVY. I tried to dunk on him and he tried to knock my head off. Everyone knew he was headed to the NBA. That’s when I started to understand the difference of me dunking on people at the Marina Center in my home town Pworld,and playing vs a real 7’1 Stud. So I tell guys,you’re opinion of yourself means nothing,the only opinion that matters in Europe is the GM’S,the Head Coach,The agents,and if you can win over the fans,them too,if you get the chance and don’t get sent home first LOL

Besides calling games and doing interviews. What is your biggest goal that you want to achieve so that this project becomes a success?

My biggest goal with this project is simple, I want to help Miles get a deal to call BBL games in English. After I accomplish that mission, I’ll ride off into the sunset with my pistols in my holsters and change my name to $lim Earp! LOL

Thanks Joe for the always entertaining chat.

Chris Dowe (189-G/F-91, college: Bellarmine, agency: GoEmpire Group) is a 30 year old 189cm guard from Louisville, Kentucky playing his 9th professional season and first with SC Prometey Kamianske (Ukraine-Superleague). In his career he has played in countries like Portugal, France, Belgium, Poland and Israel. He has won titles in countries France, Poland and the Ukraine. He began his basketball career at Eastern High School and then played at Bellarmine (NCAA) 2009-2013 playing a total of 132 NCAA2 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the exciting 71-60 Basketball Champions League win over the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg

Chris congrats on the massive BCL win over the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. It was the 11th win in a row. Are you guys playing your best basketball now?

I think that we are playing some of our basketball now. I think we came into the game with good momentum and have grown a lot as a team since the last time we played them. Both teams were missing guys. It was a big win for us.

What a crazy second half. I’m sure you have seen quite some unbelievable halves, but where does this one rank? From scoring 28 points in the third to nothing in the first 7 minutes to ending the game with a run.

It was very weird. We knew that they would make a run. Ludwigsburg is a great team that plays with a lot of energy. Things went their way in the fourth quarter. We held off their run at the end maintained them and then made plays when they counted most.

The MHP Riesen had control in the first quarter and quickly showed what kind of defensive team they are. What stuck out in your mind right away about their defensive identity?

This team is so active through positions 1-5. Every guy on that team knows exactly what to do when they are on the court. They make those extra deflections, help each other and rotate well. They make the game so ugly. They play the game so hard. You always have to match their intensity if you want a chance to win.

You guys got better into the game in the second quarter. Offensive rebounds and easy baskets were key. In the end you had 53 team rebounds and 21 offensive rebounds. How much greater was the will today than that of the opponent?

They go after every rebound with so much energy. We did a better job gang rebounding this game. We just spread the rebounding a lot better than in the first game. They beat us to the rebounds the first game. The rebounding was a big difference maker tonight.

What were the magic words of head coach Ronen Ginzburg at half-time? What adjustments could you make in the third quarter where you exploded for an incredible 28 points?

I felt that we got good looks in the first quarter, but he mentioned the turnovers. Ludwigsburg feed off the other team’s turnovers and get easy points off turnovers and take advantage of second chance points. He told us that we had to limit our turnovers. Huge in the second half was that we took better care of the ball and slowed down the game. We got better looks, went inside/out and began to make more shots.

D ‘Angelo Harrison made key shots in the third quarter onslaught. How key is he in general as an offensive player when you need buckets?

He led the BCL in scoring last season. When we need a bucket then we can always count on him. He does a good job being our engine. He gets so much respect form the defense that the game can really open up when he is on the court. It all starts with him. He is a really big part of the team.

Then in the fourth quarter you feel apart not making a field goal until the 3.09 mark where you scored. What adjustments did they seem to make on the defensive end to be so pesky in their game?

They did a good job getting us in foul trouble early. They got to the free throw line a lot and controlled the game. Radebaugh and Simon made plays which allowed them to set their defense. They didn’t let us run. I felt that we got good looks, but just didn’t make the shots. We got the same looks at the end and then they began to fall.

You guys then went on a unstoppable 10-0 run to put the nail on the coffin. Miro Bilan set the foundation in the run. Was he kind of the unsung hero with his 10/6 stats plus 4 blocks and 2 steals?

He is a real good player. We just throw it down low to him and know that something good will happen. It is already known that Ludwigsburg is always working with throwing 2 guys at you, but he is pretty much double teamed every game. He does a real good job having that balance and knowing when to shoot and when to pass out of the post. He was all over the place.

It was another regular day at the office for Sean Evans who had 6 points and 10 boards including 5 offensive rebounds. How much do you appreciate his work ethic?

I love his work ethic. I work with him before every game together. We have the same pre game work routine. He came in and told me that he felt that he was struggling with his game. He told me that he was going to have a good game. He makes so many big plays that aren’t seen on the stat sheet.

What was your impression of American Jonah Radebaugh? He has made big leaps since last season and received a huge role with the German squad.

He has been one of the biggest surprises in the BCL. He is the head of the team. I didn’t know much about him coming into the game, but I know now that he has been having a great season. The team will go as far as he takes them.

You led the team in scoring with 17 points, but this club seems like a team where anyone can be top scorer this season. How developed is the unselfishness on this team?

We have so many good players that any guy can go off on any night. Everybody is really unselfish and all we care about is winning.

When you begin 20-0 in the Ukrainian league does one slowly think undefeated? I know you guys go from game to game, but still thoughts are always there I’m sure.

Yes the thoughts are there when your 20-0. You hear the chants and can they go undefeated? I believe that the games have gotten tougher and tougher for us the more we won. We aren’t thinking about being undefeated. We just want to win the championship. We know that we have to bring the physicality and mentality every night.

Your having another very consistent season. It doesn’t matter where you have played you always fill the stat sheet. What is your secret to being so consistent?

Growing up my dad taught me that you need to be versatile. Some guys do one thing really well and then that gets taken away by the opponent and then your helpless. I know that I need to affect the game in multiple ways. I just do whatever the team needs me to do.

You had an incredible season in Israel probably your best as a professional stat wise. Do you feel pressure having to follow that up this season?

I didn’t simply because my role is different this season. I’m coming off the bench more this season. Last season I was one of the main guys and the offense went through me. I had the ball in my hands so much more last year. This season the team is so much more deeper and just do what the team needs me to do. I would rather win and have less stats than lose and have great stats. We are winning a lot and I’m still having good stats.

You had a triple double last season in Israel. How much more worth was that to you considering you did it in a top league?

That was one of my more proud moments in my career. It was my first one in my career. I had been very close many other times. That just shows how difficult it is to get a triple double in Europe. That also shows that I’m able to affect the game in multiple ways. That was a huge milestone for me.

Your 30 years old now. Are you in your prime now? Where do you still want to take your game to?

I believe that I’m in my prime. My goal has always been to reach the Euroleague. If I don’t make it I’m fine. The BCL is a high level. I am doing what I love and get paid. Life is good.

You played 3 seasons with Braydon Hobbs at Bellarmine (NCAA). What one memory do you have with him that seems to stick with you?

I haven’t ever met anyone who didn’t like playing with him. He is one of the best passer’s that I ever played with. He reads the game so well. He is a great dude and teammate. What stuck out most was that we won a lot of games together and his shooting and passing abilities were elite.

Who won a one on one you or Braydon Hobbs?

I got him1-1. He is more suited for 5-5.

Did you see the sequel to Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I haven’t seen it yet. I was told not to watch it. They waited too long to make it. It is on my list though. But they should have left it alone.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Sean Evans (203-PF-88, college: St.John’s) is a 33 year old 203cm forward from Philadelphia playing his 11th professional season and second with SC Prometey Kamianske (Ukraine-Superleague). He began his basketball career at Northeast high school and then played at St Johns (NCAA) from 2007-2011 playing a total of 128 games. He began his professional career in 2011 that has taken him to countries like Germany, Korea, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Argentina, and Macedonia. He currently has played 323 professional games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.

Welcome back to Germany. You played in Germany in your rookie season in 2011-2012. Is this your first time back?

That’s a good question. I have been playing so long. Yes I think it is.

You were in the Greece when Covid hit the world. What were the biggest challenges that you endured in the last 2 years concerning COVID?

I think the biggest challenge was not being able to play in front of fans. Doing the Covid tests every few days and making sure the vaccine is up to date was also challenging.

With everything you have seen with COVID off the court how do you believe has that made you stronger as a man?

With Covid, I became stronger as a man having to be yourself and just opening my eyes to appreciate time with family and friends. I spent more time with them.

Your playing with your 15th organization. Do you sometimes feel like you’re a basketball globetrotter? If someone had told you in 2011 in Duesseldorf that you would go the path that you have gone what would you have thought?

I think that most Americans that come overseas experience that globetrotter life. Being with the same team for a few years is very rare. I have only done it twice in Greece and the Ukraine. In 2011, I really couldn’t have expected such a long career. I had no idea what the future had in store for me. I couldn’t put a finger on it.

Your playing your second season with SC Prometey Kamianske (Ukraine-Superleague) and bang have won 2 of your 3 titles as a pro. At age 33 is this a club where you might want to end your career with?

Yes this could be one of those teams. They take good care of me. This is one of the top organizations that I have been with. I have nothing to complain about.

Do you feel like rebounding has pretty much been your bread maker? You were rebounding champion in Greece, Turkey and South Korea.

Yes rebounding has always been one of my biggest strength. Another one is the versatility of being able to defend many positions. I have been the top rebounder of leagues most of my career. I believe that I also have the double double record in the Greek league.

Does it bother you that you never reached the Euroleague or Eurocup? There are guys in those leagues that aren’t better than you.

It always has to do with the right timing and the connections that you have. Of course from top to bottom I’m better than some of the guys playing in those leagues. But it is what it is. Honestly I have been happy with how my career has gone.

What is so special about this club. It seems like they came out of nowhere and have taken the reins from the top teams.

The most special thing about this organization is that it is run great. They invest a lot of money in it having success. It has great players, great coaches and a president that loves the game and invests so much in it. We just try to give back and play hard and make the fans happy.

How vital has head coach Ronen Ginzburg been? He is a legend in the Czech Republic having won 17 titles with Nymburk. He needed no time transporting that winning culture to Prometey.

Coach is my guy. A lot of people joke about our relationship. It is difficult to explain except that we just click. We really like each other out of basketball. I have only had a few other coaches in my career where I had a great relationship with them. I really respect him. Our team is full with veterans that help him be successful, because they know what to do. It is like a great marriage.

How special is it being reunited again with St Johns (NCAA) teammate DJ Kennedy? Now you guys must be like special brothers.

We are special brothers. We almost grew up together. We came in the same class to ST Johns. We battled together in the Big East. I remember my coach with Prometey asking me if they should add him and I said it was a no brainer. He brings experience and winning that helps us get to the next level.

You played at Ifestos Limnou (Greece-A1) from 2018-2020 and was top and third best rebounder in the Greek first division. Was this time where you played your best basketball as a professional?

I wouldn’t disagree with it. My coach in Greece clicked with me. He just let me play my game. He never held me back. We had 2 good years there.

In those 2 years you always played well against top Euroleague team Panathinaikos, but didn’t win. When you played well against ex NBA players and others how did that give you a type of special satisfaction?

I’m in a place in my career now where I know what I can do on the court. Playing well against a Euroleague team now doesn’t give me the extra satisfaction. Earlier in my career it would have. I have played well against Euroleague teams my whole career.

In the 2017-2018 season you bounced around with ASP Promitheas Patras (Greece) averaging 12.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.4spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 53.6%, FT: 70.0%, in Feb.’18 moved to Aerochaco Boca Juniors Capital Feder (Argentina-Liga A) averaging 6.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 38.6%, FT: 33.3%, in Apr.’18 signed at KK Rabotnicki AD Skopje (FYR Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 12.4ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.8%, FT: 64.2%. Did you literally live out of a suitcase?

Yes you would have thought that. You become a journey man playing overseas. It’s always tough moving around so much during a season, but as soon as you acclimated to your surroundings, it’s like riding a bike and then you just roll with it. I have become used to it.

What was it like playing for the famous club Boca Juniors in Argentina? Was that fan culture one of the craziest you ever saw and did you experience their soccer team?

It was crazy there. When I got there, I had no idea how big that soccer club was. It was like a movie seeing how much their fans care about them. Basketball is also a lot bigger than I thought. It was a good experience.

You finished the season in Macedonia winning your first professional title. How crazy were those last 2 games against MZT Skopje where you won by a combined point total of 4 points?

That was a crazy series. In the second game, I actually broke a bone in my face. I had a hole in my face and kept playing. I knew that we had to win that game, because if we lost then I wouldn’t have been able to play in the deciding game. I went with my adrenaline and helped win the game and title. We actually stopped a long run of MZT Skopje of winning the title. It was very special winning that first title with guys like Marcus Ginyard and Russell Robinson.

In the 2016-2017 season you had your first tour of duty in Greece with GS Lavrio (Greece-A1) averaging 10.1ppg, Reb-3 (6.9rpg), 1.1spg, FGP: 50.8%, FT: 45.7%. How enjoyable has your time been in Greece? How did your game grow there?

Playing in Greece helped my game a lot. I got a lot of experience playing there. It is one of the best leagues in Europe and there are never any nights off. My career really grew in Greece. Teams really respected me from top to bottom and there were many teams that offered me contracts. I really appreciate Greece and what it gave me. It is like my second home.

How enjoyable was it watching an unknown Kevin Punter develop there? He made it to the Euroleague. Do you feel his size kept him from his goals early on as a professional?

It was good to see him develop. Kevin is my guy. I always knew that he would reach the top level. He had all the tools and he put in all the work. I am a player who gets to the gym early before practice to get in some extra work whether it be stretching or getting shots up. I remember him always being there early also. He was only a rookie and knew what it took to get to where he wanted to be. I am happy for his success and we still keep in touch to this day.

In 2015-2016 you played in Turkey with Sakarya Isik Koleji (Turkey-TBL) playing 40 games averaging 15.0ppg, Reb-1 (11.2rpg), 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 62.6%. What has been your secret to being so consistent in so many different leagues?

I think key is knowing who you are and not trying to do too much. Being a competitor also helps. Coming out of Philadelphia, I was groomed on being a dog on the court. That has really helped me.

In the 2014-2015 season you had your only tour of duty in Israel with Hapoel Eilat (Israel-Winner League) averaging 9.1ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 58.1%, FT: 45.2%, and Hapoel Holon (Israel-Winner League) averaging games: 11.2ppg, 6.8rpg, FGP: 56.3%, FT: 46.6%. How important was this season for your career? You saw many very talented guys in this league a little different than what you saw in Germany.

Israel was another great place that I played in. With Holon we finished great third in the league. I had some great teammates with Tony Crocker and Dominic McGuire. The fan base really stood out there. It was crazy.

You played the 2013-2014 season with Anyang KGC (Korea-KBL) averaging 13.4ppg, Reb-1 (11.9rpg), Steals-5 (1.4spg), FGP: 53.7%, FT: 42.0%. You had great games there including a 20 rebound game. What do you remember from your time there? Is it true that American players have God like status there?

Your like a movie star there. You get mobbed everywhere you go and get gifts before and after games. They are very passionate of basketball. I really appreciate that.

In 2012-2013 you had a season with the Idaho Stampede (D-League) averaging 12.3ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.7%, FT: 58.0%. What kind of an experience was it? Was it difficult making the step between keep trying for the NBA or go overseas after the good season you had?

Coming out of my rookie season in Germany and being young, of course I wanted to get to the NBA. I had try-outs and work outs and then landed with the Idaho Stampede. Overal it was a good experience. But it’s almost like a waisted season there. Your stuck there. If I had the choice to do it again, I wouldn’t have done it. Simply because there is more money overseas.

You had an incredible 34 points and 22 boards against Bakersfield. What memories do you have of that game?

Yes I remember that game. After that game, I really thought that I would get an NBA call up. That was an amazing game. Everything I shot was going in and I was grabbing every rebound. It felt like I had magnates on my hands. After the game I was saying good bye to my teammates thinking I would get to the NBA. I remember the assistant coach Scott Williams who won 3 NBA tiles with the Bulls with Jordan telling me If I was 2-3 inches more that I would be in the NBA. The D-League was what it was. It was like a war. All want to get out to the NBA or get that good contract overseas.

Did you have a feeling then that it is even harder for guys to make an impression when NBA teams only have certain guys that they are focusing on developing further for the NBA?

Yes definitely. Young guys are naeve. I was the same when I was in the D-League. The D-League is more for guys that are already in the NBA and go there to work on their game. Other times guys are just parked there, because they are about to sign a contract or sometimes are just there to fill a roster spot. The D-League can kill a career. I have seen it. Guys get stuck there and if they don’t play well there, then you can’t get out, because teams won’t sign you from overseas.

As a rookie you split time with the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-ProA) averaging 6.2ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 61.1%, FT: 60.0%; and with BG Goettingen (Germany-1.Bundesliga) averaging 9.7ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 51.8%, FT: 53.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas for the first time where you knew that you were very far away from home?

The wake up call was when I got to Dusseldorf and saw how Murat Didin ran the organization. It was a good experience for me. I was young and seeing how he operated prepared me for the future so I would know what to expect if I encountered someone like that again. I was there only a very short time. I then signed with BG Goettingen and was able to play in the BBL.

In Goettingen you were reunited with another former St John’s teammate Paris Horne. How vital was it having that family feeling? You went on to have a solid season there

That was great. We were both rookies and living in a comfort zone before getting there. Having someone familiar with me in hard times was important. It wasn’t always easy as we were thrown into the fire. We both played well individually, but not as a team.

You played at St Johns (NCAA) from 2007-2011. What were your fondest memories there?

There were so many. I remember beating so many top ten teams as well as 6-7 ranked teams. Beating Pittsburgh and Duke was also memorable. We had recruited 8 freshman and 5 made it through. We reached the tournament in 2011. We lost a hard fought game to Gonzaga. We were a lot smaller and they had a lot of bigger players. It was just one of those games where they were better.

You had an interesting career stat wise. You had a solid sophomore season, but then your numbers went down again. Talk a little about how your game was able to develop despite your numbers being up and down?

In college you need to play within the system. Playing in the Big East, there were always tough games. It was a learning process. I tried to do the best I could with the opportunities I got. I feel like my game grew a lot being able to play against top teams each night. My self-confidence grew and I took that with me into my professional career. Playing against top competition prepared me for everything after.

How vital was it having forward Justin Burrell on your side for 4 years. How do you believe did both of you profit from each other?

It was key to have Justin there. He was from New York and we played well with each other. We had different games. I was more the up and down player and Justin was more the throw it in the post player. He is still playing today and having a great career in Japan.

How did head coach Norman Roberts groom and prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

Norm was the reason for our success. He brought us all in. He groomed us and showed us what it meant to be winners and men. He put us on the map. It was very important that he let us learn on the fly as freshmen.

Who won a one on one you or Justin Burrell?

We were even.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that went to the NBA?

There were 2 guys. First Kemba Walker of UConn and second MarShon Brooks. He was the most talented guy I played against in the NCAA. He scored 56 points in college. Doing that is different.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Marcus and Markieff Morris, DJ Kennedy, DJ Stephens and Rolands Freimanis

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Shaq, Magic

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

It is a difficult comparison. Both era’s were different. But I will go with Jordan because he laid the foundation.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

Yes I saw it and they should have left it alone. It took me 4 times to get through it because it was so bad.

Thanks Sean for the chat.