With the regular season of the Pro B slowly winding down, the Fraport Skyliners Juniors seem to be safe in the playoffs while Giessen are battling for that last spot with teams like Oberaching and Coburg. It is always an interesting derby when Frankfurt and Giessen meet especially in the easyCredit BBL, but also in the Pro B with their farm teams. One massive delight is to still be able to see ex German national player Johannes Lischka (203-PF-1987, agency: LUMANI 10.7) who continues to play the game he loves, and every game he plays, he plays as if it is his last one. His muscling in the zone and scoring around two and sometimes three guys is something that will be missed one day when he hangs it up. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors want to reach the post season with a bang as they last lost on the road to Orange Academy 90-85 while Giessen lost a shootout at home against Erfurt needed a victory badly and were rewarded with a well deserved 82-70 win in Frankfurt. It is no secret that the Giessen farm team is carried by their big three of Lischka, Scott and Uhleman who combine for 56 of the 83 team points they make per night this season and on this night did even more damage combining for 65 of the team 82 points. Especially in crunch time a brutal 13-0 run where Lischka, Scott and Uhleman combined for 11 points did the damage. But it was also the Giessen defense that smothered Frankfurt at the end. ‘I felt like we were very focused from the start. Our big goal is to reach the playoffs. Our defense was key for the win. We were flying all around the place and helping each other out. We were vocal and always ready. When they scored, we were sure to make the next stop’, stressed Dallas native Montrael Scott. For the Fraport Skyliners Juniors it was a bitter loss, because they were in the game in crunch-time and then just let it get away. ‘I thought that we fought well for the most part and executed well. We didn’t have as many fast break points as we may have liked. We were too up and down on defense. We had good phases and bad phases’, stated ex Nurnberg Falcon Matthew Meredith.

The first quarter was even for the first few minutes, but then sloppy play by the Fraport Skyliners Juniors and good offensive execution allowed Giessen to take control of the game and lead by as much as 13 points. But Frankfurt cut down the lead and trailed only 25-19 after 10 minutes. Both teams got their offenses going right away as both teams attacked the rim and didn’t take any three’s. Meredith was as usual in attack mode scoring twice while Lischka also got on a roll rapidly scoring twice as the contest was deadlocked at 6-6. But Giessen then ran away going on a harsh 15-2 run to lead very comfortably 21-8. Giessen was poised and played intelligent inside out basketball connecting on two trey’s from Uhlemann and Scott, but also got some buckets inside as ex Frankfurt guard Maxi Begue scored back to back baskets. Frankfurt coughed up the ball too much and just made bad decisions on offense something that would plague them until the end. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors didn’t totally cave in as they regrouped and closed out the first quarter well going on a 11-4 run. Frankfurt was more aggressive and got two buckets from veteran Marco Voeller as well as 4 points form Bennet Schubert. He made an unorthodox line drive runner in that surprised many in the gym that it actually fell. Three and d specialist Risto Vasiljevic also scored on a runner. ‘We usually have good energy, but didn’t have it in their run. We made little mistakes on defense and just weren’t wake in certain situations’, stated Matthew Meredith. Both teams shot over 50% from the field while were combined 2/10 from outside. Giessen had the 10-7 rebound edge with the 4-2 offensive rebound edge.

In the second quarter The Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos kept the lead as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were unable to get over the hump and trailed 46-40 at half-time. Giessen get off to a quick start getting baskets from Lischka and Viktor Ziring as they stopped Frankfurt’s first three possessions and led 29-19. Both team’s offenses now struck fire as both traded baskets, but Frankfurt still couldn’t make ground. Giessen got three’s from Scott, Lischka and Uhlemann as they spread the offensive love around while Frankfurt was led by Meredith who connected for 5 points and Jordan Samare made an offensive rebound and put back, but Giessen led 40-30. But like in the first quarter, the Fraport Skylinmers Juniors got a bit stronger towards the end going into the break with a 10-6 run to trail only 46-40. Especially Samare was potent in the Frankfurt run as he scored three buckets. Frankfurt did a good job powering the ball inside and letting their bigs take control. Marco Voeller also scored. Giessen got some help from German David Amaize who chipped in with two baskets. ‘We played a fake zone and would go back to man. That surprised Giessen and helped us get back into the game. When our defense works then our offense follows’, stated Matthew Meredith. Both teams continued to shoot over 50% from the field, but Giessen did more damage from outside shooting 44% while Frankfurt shot only 21%. And both teams had 16 rebounds a piece.

Both teams stepped up their defensein the third quarter, but the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were able to get the lead back momentarily only to lose it again and trail 60-58 after 30 minutes. Frankfurt had a good start going on a smooth 5-0 run as Meredith began dropping a trey and ex TG Hanau forward Calvin Schaum made a pretty runner to trail Giessen only 46-45. But Giessen stopped the run as Lischka scored inside getting the perfect shovel pass from Montrael Scott. The chemistry between Scott and LIschka is breathtaking. ‘I have been watching him for years. It is all about reading the defense correctly. On pick and roll, if I get stopped then he is open. We just have great chemistry’, warned Montrael Scott. Tim Uhlemann then made a three pointer keeping Frankfurt at bay as Giessen still led 51-47. But Frankfurt then found some daylight and cruised on out on a 7-0 run to capture the lead back at 54-51. The run was started by a perfect Hadenfeldt pass who finished with 8 to Nils Leonhardt. Then followed a three pointer by Voeller and then the nicest play of the night as Hadenfeldt dished out another dime feeding Jordan Samare on transition for the perfect alley-oop two handed stuff. ‘That was a beautiful alley-oop. You can’t do it any better than that’, added Matthew Meredith. Frankfurt picked up their energy on defense and made some big plays leading to easy points. But Frankfurt was unable to keep their momentum as Giessen closed out the third quarter with a 9-4 run. In the run, Giessen received good support from Montrael Scott who did a great job picking his spots and making two nice jumpers while Uhlemann was aggressive on the boards making a and put back and young German Sebastian Brach took advantage of the Frankfurt five team fouls got to the free throw line three times but made only three. ‘We got lazy on defense. We had a slow start. It was hard controlling Meredith tonight. We wanted to take his three away and let him drive’, stated Montrael Scott.

For the first few minutes of the fourth quarter, it was a fierce dog fight, but then came the brutal blow as Giessen went on a 17-5 run to end the game. Uhlemann continued to keep Giessen ahead with a pair of free throws and another three pointer, but Meredith continued to try to be their savior making a trey and a floater to tie the game 65-65. Then came the turning point of the game as Giessen escaped on a neck breaking 13-0 run to lead 78-65. In the run, Johannes Lischka began scoring three of four baskets. He scored all three baskets in the paint including finishing with a hard dunk. As always point guard Montrael Scott was there to supply the perfect passes. Scott also made a jumper while Uhlemann hit a trey and Brach also connected. ‘I understand the game and play at my pace. I just try to pick my spots as best I can. I also have great teammates that make my job easy’, said Montrael Scott. ‘Lischka is so tough to stop. He has a good mid range game. He has been showing for years that he can do it. But honestly I don’t feel that he was so much the problem, but it was more Scott and Uhlemann’, warned Matthew Meredith. Hadenfeldt then stopped the gigantic run with a three pointer. But it was too little to late. Scott added some cosmetic flavor for his stat line with a pull up jumper and free throws. Calvin Schaum closed out the game with a lay in. ‘We were focused at the end in executing our defense. We gave up 103 points a few days ago. We knew that we couldn’t defend like that again’, warned Montrael Scott. ‘I don’t really think that we played bad in the end. They just made some shots and we didn’t’, said Matthew Meredith. The Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos were led by Tim Uhlemann with 25 points and 14 rebounds. Montrael Scott added 20 points and 8 assists and Johannes Lischka scored 20 points while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Matthew Meredith with 20 points while Marco Voeller and Jordan samara added 12 points apiece. Giessen shot 48% from t6he field and 41% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 25% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Tags : JOHANNES LISCHKA, JOBSTAIRS GIESSEN 46ERS, GERMAN BASKETBALL

On January 23rd, the world was still in order for American Jy’Lan Washington (206-F-1997, college: Tennessee St.) who likes to compare his game to Rudy Gay as he had just helped his team BC Kiev defeat Cherkasy 83-73 on the road as he chipped in with 10 points having a potent shooting night at 80%. A big part of European basketball are the road trips as the bigger the countries are the longer the bus trips get. Especially in the Ukraine, the tedious and long trips can be very bumpy. The travel from Cherkasy to Kiev is 191 kilometers and little did he know then that that would be his last bus ride in the Ukraine this season. The bus ride home probably wasn’t any different than any other ride home. Obviously by night, you can’t see anything, but by day seeing the pretty Ukraine countryside is one that can be breathtaking. More than a month later the Ukraine terrain doesn’t look like it did earlier. The Ukraine are at war with Russia as the whole world is watching Putin operate. In a span of two weeks, he experienced two horrible things that no one would have expected just a few years ago. First he was hit with Covid and a few weeks later war broke out. The first warnings about war came in mid January, but people didn’t really believe war could break out. He didn’t depart right away, but soon listened to his inner self and didn’t stick around. ‘I actually wanted to leave right then and there but I stayed around trusting my coaching staff. They told us if things got real serious they would let us go home. I stayed so long because I got Covid in the beginning of February. Which caused me to be isolated for 2 weeks but I stayed updated on the news. Once I heard Biden say all Americans need to evacuate immediately and the embassy was moving to Poland that’s when I knew it was time to go’, stressed Jy’Lan Washington.

The 24 year old American who hails from Smyrna, Tennessee is back at home now and enjoying the love of his family, but there isn’t a day where the Ukraine isn’t in his thoughts. Now he is glued to the TV everyday in the States to keep track with how the Ukraine is doing. It is only logical that his mind is spinning about what could have been had he remained in Kiev. ‘My thoughts were man that could’ve been my apartment building blown up or me getting shot as things just escalated so quickly’, remembered Jy’Lan Washington. He finally got up to pack and leave Kiev on February 13th 11 days before war broke out. His last days in the Ukraine weren’t easy as the tension was building. Most Americans were trying to go. Life in the Ukraine was just getting unbearable for the American so he had to make a decision. ‘The last few days was very intense I was barely sleeping if I heard something outside it would keep me awake for a while because I was uncertain on what it was. Having to play basketball and worry about if your going to live to see the next day is very hard’, stressed Jy’Lan Washington.

Imagine war looming so close and you can’t go home. That was the scenario for many Americans. There were mixed reports about how clubs handled the situation for their players. Some clubs were respectful about the decision of their players while others had that attitude where one can only shake your head in disbelief. For the American who lists Collin Sexton as his toughest opponent in the NCAA, he had to see another side of the organization. ‘The team didn’t pay for my flight or give me my February check. They also didn’t give me my release. After I left the team, they sent an email out saying they were going to sue me for breaking contract and I wasn’t going to get my letter of clearance unless I returned to Kyiv’, remembered Jy’Lan Washington. Sometimes making that tough decision between family and basketball can be one that gives players sleepless nights. Your in a country that is near to war and your family is freaking out on the other side of the world. At first basketball dominated in his thoughts, but over time, he knew exactly what would be the correct decision. ‘That was probably the toughest. My family wanted me to leave in January but I wanted to stay. We had some important games and I wanted to play in them. My family called me everyday but once Biden said leave immediately I got 4 or 5 phone calls after that from family members that’s when I knew it was time to go’, remembered Jy’Lan Washington. Even when the warning signs of war got nearer, some players still remained not only with BC Kyiv but also team ‘Budivelnyk. His teammate Mike Caffey was the only American left on his team and saw bombings and the massive traffic jam of Ukrainians trying to flee the city. For the Tennessee native wondering what could have been had he stayed in Kyiv affect him to this day. ‘I think about it all the time I’m just thankful I left a week earlier. Mike had to leave a lot of clothes and bags behind because he couldn’t fly home directly from Kyiv’, said Jy’Lan Washington.

But there weren’t only Americans on the squad, but also a handful of Ukrainian players like Konstantin Anilenko, Ilya Tyrtyshnik or Andrii Voinalovych just to name a few. These guys and the rest of the Ukrainians on the club couldn’t just get up and leave like the Americans and fly home to their families. Their families were where the war was and had to deal with the utmost harrowing situations. There is often that cliche that Americans hang out only or mostly with their own and don’t form that kind of bond with other guys from other countries that often make those special winning teams. That was maybe 10-15 years ago, but nowadays one can’t accept that phrase anymore. Teams and players have become more united. That special bond Among Americans and Ukrainians on the club BC Kyiv was there before war and obviously even tighter now. ‘I loved my teammates. We became closer and closer as the season went on. I’m still checking in on them from time to time’, stressed Jy’Lan Washington. Being at home in the care of his own family and relatives, but knowing some of his teammates are somehow trying to provide for their families is very troubling for him. ‘It’s a very unfortunate situation. Those guys were really talented. I pray that one day the Ukraine league will start back up so those guys have opportunities to provide for their families and themselves’, expressed Jy’Lan Washington.

After experiencing something terrible like this, The ex Tennessee State forward has been not only in deep thought about the Ukrainian citizens, but also about his future playing overseas. Despite having gone through this ordeal, he won’t turn his head on crossing the Atlantic ocean back to Europe soon. ‘The situation made me think about Europe a lot but honestly I will do my research on any country and if I get an offer then hopefully nobody else goes to war in Europe’, stressed Jy’Lan Washington. Just continuing to understand where he was is something that will affect him for the rest of his life. Playing those mental games are something that won’t only continue in the future concerning basketball, but also about life. ‘It’s an experience I’d never forget. I risked my life to play basketball but luckily I realized things were getting real serious so I made the decision to leave right on time. Now I’m just praying for everyone in the Ukraine and wishing the war stops immediately’, stated Jy’Lan Washington. His whole life has changed and will never see life the way he did before his Ukrainian experience. ‘ I’m very thankful and blessed to be alive and I’m taking it one day at a time and cherishing every moment’, stressed Jy’Lan Washington. In the meantime, he will continue to follow the progress of war on TV, spend time with his loved ones and never keep the Ukrainian folk out of his thoughts. ‘I’m just praying for all the people in the Ukraine. I hope the war stops immediately so everyone can enjoy their lives and the beautiful country. I’ll never forget the Ukraine and all the great people I met on the journey. I hope everyone is safe’, warned Jy’Lan Washington. Jy’Lan Washington will always have a special bond to the Ukraine as he watches from a far with his heart bleeding for his basketball brothers and every one else in a country he called home this season.

Tags : JY’

Foto credit Joerg Maess

Shaquille Rombley (203-F-1996, college: LMU) is a 203cm forward that was born in Saint Maarten and grew up in Gainsville, Florida and lived with his uncle. He is playing his rookie season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn 2nd team (Germany-Regionalliga) currently averaging 17,6ppg, 9,9rpg, 2,5apg, 11spg and 2,3bpg. He has scored in double figures in 19 games and registered 10 double doubles. He began his basketball career at the Rock school. He then played 2 years at Indian River State College (JUCO) playing 59 games averaging 6.2ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 61.7%, FT: 69.4% and in his second season averaged 7.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 48.1%. He then finished at Lincoln Memorial playing 36 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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


It’s an honor. I’m right now playing professional basketball in Bonn, Germany with Telekom basket Bonn 2 team. Basketball is treating me well at the moment.

You were in the States during the Pandemic. How have you experienced COVID and what were the most challenging things you had to cope with?

I’ve experienced COVID during my redshirt junior year at LMU. We were in practice, getting ready for the regional tournament and Coach Josh Schertz stopped the practice and told us that the season is canceled. That was in 2019-20 season. During that time the most challenging aspect I had to deal with was hoping my family back home in St. Maarten were doing okay and also trying to stay healthy and ready for the basketball season to start back up. Ever since I started playing basketball my junior year of high school. I never really had a break from basketball or working out. Then when Covid started and everywhere was closed, it was hard to stay in shape.

With everything that you witnessed during COVID off the court how do you feel did you get stronger as a man?

Covid made me stronger mentally and saw everything we go through is for a purpose. I was really in my thoughts a lot and distracted by the things I can’t control. Covid also was my reset. It changed the way I go about things, been more focus on my health and eating better.

Your playing your first pro season in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 team. How blessed do you feel to be playing the game that you love?

I’m truly blessed for the opportunity to continue playing basketball. A sport that not only teach me how to play basketball but show me the keys to be successful off the court. Which is something that I recently learned for myself. That is why I love the sport.

Not many JUCO players are able to go overseas and become a professional player. You also didn’t tear up the NCAA 2 level or didn’t get a chance to at Lincoln Memorial. Do you feel like your skill level has been overlooked the last years? I don’t feel like they were overlooked.

Every coach guided me in the right direction. I would say mentally I had to find myself confidence and continue to trust the process.

What kind of an experience has it been being a part of the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization? Have you been able to practice with the first team? How beneficial has that been for your development?

The experience so far is great. Developing my game and staying focus. Playing with the first team helps me physically and mentally. Physically because of how intense the practice is and mentally learning the game at a faster pace. I like to be uncomfortable because it shows the areas that I have to work on.

What has it been like being teammates with so many young Germans. Many aren’t much older than you, but you have seen so much in the States. Do you feel like they look up to you as a role model, because you played in the States?

I’m hoping to show the young athletes from St.Maarten that we are from a small island but that doesn’t mean we are less than everybody else. I hope they are not looking up to me as an American because I am not American. The states has given me a start to my career and I am very appreciate the supportive from my family and coaches.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I have many Tim Duncan, Dennis Rodman and Chris Bosh. Growing up I used to watch basketball with some friends but never saw myself playing the sport. At first I thought I was going to play volleyball.

You have shown this season that you can score and rebound with the best of them at the Regionalliga, but at the same time can fill the stat sheet with ease. Is versatility your biggest strength?

I would say the motor that I have is my biggest strength. I want to push my body to the limits and I’m sure there is more I can give.

You have proven this season that you can be an impact player at both ends of the court. What have you learned about your game this season?

I have learned that the only thing that was keeping me back was me. This off-season something clicked in my head and everything started to make sense. I have been doing all the work behind closed doors and for some reason couldn’t do it when the lights were on. I have been more focused and prepared I’ve ever been

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now as you continue to want to improve your game and move up the basketball ladder?

I’m working shooting the ball more and finding the balance where I can be a complete consistent player

You played two seasons at Indian River State College (JUCO). Every guy I interview that played JUCO say that it was real tough, but in the end worth it and a great experience. How was it for you?

Playing JUCO basketball was tough but everyday I’ve learned more about the game of basket. When I started playing in JUCO. I only had one year of experience playing basketball. I’ve played my senior of high school at THE ROCK OF Gainesville, in Gainesville FL

How important was head coach Charlie Wilson for your early development at Indian River State College?. How did he guide you best in those 2 years?

It was very important because I was new to the game. The way he coached me for my first two years was to help me understand as much of the game and the basics as much as I can before moving on.

How disappointing was it moving to Lincoln Memorial and never averaging more than 4 minutes per game in a season? Despite not playing much, what benefits did you get from the experience?

Before going to LMU, Charlie Wilson told me that it would be challenging and I have to accept the challenge. I was playing against good players every day for 3 years. I learned a lot from the guys. One of the benefits I got playing at LMU was being coached by Josh Schertz

You won the SAC title in 2020 and reached the NCAA 2 final 4. What will you always remember from these runs?

No matter what is going on around you. What is important is right in-front of you

How did head coach Josh Schertz groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Josh Schertz always told me that my mind is holding me back. If I fix my mind everything else will follow

Who won a one on one in practice you or Jordan Guest?

Our one on one be very competitive. He’s a good player but I got me winning.

Who was the toughest player that you encountered in the NCAA 2 or anywhere in your life in the gym that would reach the NBA.

Cam Henry who’s playing for coach Josh Schertz right now

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Anthony Brown, Devin Whitfield Cam Henry, cCnrvoisier McCauley and Rodney Hackett

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads.

KD,Steph curry, Greek freak and Jokic

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

They both are unique players and I respect them both equally.

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

No I haven’t seen it

Thanks Shaq for the chat.

Stanley Whittaker (183-G-1994, 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 85-81 victory over Paderborn. The team did a good job controlling the game for almost 30 minutes. How unneccessary was allowing them back into the game shortly before the horn in the third quarter? –

We turned the ball over which led to some easy baskets for them. We also got pretty stagnant offensively, which led to them getting out in transition much more. I felt we were solid if we just continue to build better habits and stay consistent for an entire 40 minutes.

How proud are you still of Moe Pluskota, who made free throws and then a big block with 44 seconds to help set up your free throws. Is it fair to say that he won you guys the game at the end?

That’s what we expect from Moe, I’m glad he made that block, I told him that was huge for us. I let him know he won us that game.

Is it a bit worrisome knowing that game could of got away, because you couldn’t control Barnes, Flanigan and Trapp?

They’re good players, they were down with nothing to lose so they fought back, I give them credit. Our group, we just have to be consistent for the entire 40 minutes.

The team only hit 2 three pointers. How often will one win a game when one can’t hit the ocean from outside?

Our defense in the first half gave us some separation, we were able to turn them over and get transition baskets. We didn’t shoot the ball well from the three but we dug deep and found a way to win without it.

You had another solid game with 27/4/5/4 stats. What satisfaction did your game give you the most on this night?


Not really any satisfaction honestly, just glad we got the win on the road.

48 hours later you lost to Vechta 98-88. How tough is this loss knowing if the team had taken better care of the ball pretty would of won.

Yeah that’s the most frustrating part of this loss. We won’t stand a chance against any team turning the ball over the way we did, and it started with me, I take ownership of that, I have to take care of the ball better.

PS Karlsruhe allowed 37 points after 10 minutes. Was this the worst quarter of the season and why did the defense fall apart?

It was a tough first quarter, Vechta came out more aggressive, more assertive. I had 3 turnovers in the first quarter and they were not missing so we put ourselves in a hole early on which gave them a lot of confidence and momentum.

The game was up and down for PS Karlsruhe. After a strong second quarter allowing only 14 points, you then allowed 27 points in the third quarter. Is their concern about the team playing like this so late in season?

Just being consistent on the defensive side of the ball, we weren’t consistent last night and Vechta isn’t just some bad team, they got really good experienced players. As a whole, we just have to be better.

PS Karlsruhe cut it down to 6 points with 1,20 to go, but couldn’t get over the hump. Did the team run out of gas at the end?

I think we had some left still but we just didn’t get the timely stops that we needed. If I’m not mistaken 92/88 we were attacking but turned the ball over and they came down and scored, those plays tend to suck the air out of players especially when you know the pressure of a stop and score is very needed at this point in the game.

You had another strong game with 30 points and 10 assists, but you and Zylka combined for 13 turnovers. Was it more mental mistakes or Vechta?

Us turning the ball over that much is unacceptable, we have to do a better job of taking care of the ball. I know I had a few unforced turnovers which is really bad. It was more so on us.

You next battle the wiha Panthers who you easily disposed of 82-68. They are in a slump at the moment. What will be key to sweeping the season series?

Our preparation, we have to prepare well, focus on the things we can control and give our best effort come game time.

Thanks Stanley for the chat.

John Murry (192-G-1995, college: Austin Peay) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana that is playing his third professional season in Germany with BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga). Before that he had experience with the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans. He played two years at Owens Community College playing 63 games and two years at Austin Peay State University (NCAA) playing 56 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 16.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 81.1%. He and Miles Schmidt-Scheuber talk weekly about basketball.

Congrats on the huge 104-91 win over The ETB Miners. How good did it feel snapping the four game losing streak?

It felt great snapping the streak. Guys really came to play, I’m glad we were able to squeeze out the win.

Another shoot out game. What was different in this game that you hadn’t been able to do in previous games?

The difference was we made shots and we took care of the ball, that’s what got us in the win column.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. What were the best phases of the game and what was key in crunch-time for the win?

The best phases were us playing together and making shots down the stretch, when we are NOT turning the ball over consistently, we are a tough team to beat.

How vital were the 7 extra possessions that you had to get the win?

It was beautiful, seeing guys put forth effort to box out and play defense for the entire shot clock was the key component and not allowing second chance points, that enabled us to capitalize on our possessions.

Did you see any change in how the team defended? What steps did you see on the defensive end?

Yes we put forth the extra effort route so we could be successful in the end.
Boxing out and playing the entire shot clock is what helped us.

You had another normal day at the office with 29/4/7/3 stats. What is your summary of your performance?

I was actually happy with this one because we got the win and guys were making shots on the offensive end.

You next play Deuzter who you beat 79-70 in the first game. What memories do you have of that game?

I know I was able to get my guys going hitting shots that night and we need to box out even more and be disciplined for the whole shot clock, with that I see us in a very high win percentage for that game.

You beat them despite turning the ball over 20 times. What else will be key for securing the win?

Thanks John for the chat.

With COVID still as alive as always, it has been one of those seasons that the uncertainty of playing games is about as difficult to estimate as is where rising German Isaiah Hartenstein could play next season, but for the Fraport Skyliners, the last two months, it has been like they were a bear in hibernation. In the last two months, they have only played 6 games and have shown a dismal 1-5 record. Now they have little time to recuperate as the games now come bang bang bang as they play 4 in the next 11 days starting with 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen. BG Goettingen have had a very strong season and if the playoffs began tomorrow would be in the mix with the top 8 clubs. They have played 8 games in the last two months and have struggled a bit sporting a 3-5 record. It was a must win for the Fraport Skyliners as they wanted to show that their training camp in Mallorca had helped them be ready for the weeks of truth as they battle to stay in the BBL:. But this season the Fraport Skyliners continue not to know how to play consistently for 40 minutes and despite playing a strong first half, fell apart in the fourth quarter losing 73-65 to BG Goettingen. ‘We played well for 35 minutes, but in the last five minutes, we were exhausted and had no legs. Suddenly we lost Will Cherry and everything was a lot more difficult for us. We refused too many open shots. We just can’t do that. We fought very hard, but didn’t play brave enough’, stressed Fraport Skyliners head coach Diego Ocampo. BG Goettingen has been a surprise team this season and showed their comeback skills upping their defense in the second half and getting a huge push by new player Harald Frey. ‘This was a very intense game. The first quarter was very tough for us. We had no real offensive rhythm for a long time. But in the second half our character and defense held them to 25 points. That was the reason for the win. We made very good decisions at the end’, stated BG Goetingen head coach Roel Moors.

The first quarter was a tight affair, but after 10 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners had the slim 18-14 advantage. The Fraport Skyliners didn’t waste anytime executing on their first possession as they were aggressive and Quantez Robertson dropped a trey. BG Goettingen reacted well as the BBL’s second top scorer Kamar Baldwin (185-G-1997, college: Butler) scored 5 unanswered points to give the guests the lead. Frankfurt had the lead back very quickly at 7-5 as ex NBA player Will Cherry scored in the paint and ex Alba Berlin center Jamel Mclean connected on free throws. Frankfurt demonstrated early on that banging the ball inside would be on the menu and would keep it consistent until the end as Lukas Wank scored for the 10-7 lead. Frankfurt had their early woes with offensive rebounds as they allowed 4 in the first quarter which gave the guests extra chances. A Jeff Roberson lay in who played at Vanderbilt (NCAA) and three by sniper Jake Toolson who played at BYU gave BG Goettingen the lead back again at 12-10. But the Fraport Skyliners didn’t let the back and forth tug of war get at them as they closed out the first quarter with a timely 8-2 run to secure the 18-14 lead. Frankfurt continued to get their bigs involved. In the run, they got baskets from rookie Matt Haarms, ex Alba Berlin forward Lorenz Brenneke and Mclean. ‘We didn’t box out well which resulted in them getting those offensive rebounds. We have to do a better job chasing down rebounds’, said ex Auburn (NCAA) guard Quantez Robertson. ‘We did a good job fighting for the rebounds and getting extra possessions. . my teammates also did a good job finding me and I knocked down shots’, stressed BG Goettingen guard Kamar Baldwin BG Goettingen was shooting under 40% while Frankfurt was at 71% from the two point range. Both teams were even on the boards and turnovers.

In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners executed even better on offense and was able to lead in double digits for some time and led 40-31 at the break. In the first few minutes BG Goettingen was able to stay with Frankfurt as their offense was too one dimensional as time after time Jamel Mclean would get the ball in the post. BG Goettingen struck with a Harald Frey three pointer who played at Montana State (NCAA) and pretty floater by ex Giessen guard Stephen Brown to cut Frankfurt’s lead down to 20-19. Rasheed Moore then nailed a trey giving Frankfurt the 23-19 advantage. It had been Moore’s first shot after almost 14 minutes of play. Why Moore doesn’t get more love on offense is a riddle. Frankfurt was up and down, but still had the 25-21 lead despite coughing up the ball too much. With the game pretty even, one may have thought that the game changing event would happen as Will Cherry was kicked out of the game after getting a technical foul. He had already been hit with a flagrant foul. Instead of caving in, this annoying turn of event seemed to spark the Fraport Skyliners. They continued to force the ball inside and got valuable minutes from their two young bigs Haarms and Brenneke as they combined for 9 of the last 15 points of the quarter. They also got 4 points from Len Schoorman on free throws and a transition basket form Moore who reeled in the touch down heave from Quantez Robertson. BG Goettingen mustered little inside and got heavy production from Jake Toolson who scored 8 points in the last five minutes including two three pointers. ‘We executed better and got to the free throw line. We had open looks and our bigs did what they could. They did a good job passing and attacking the rim’, stated Quantez Robertson. ‘Frankfurt did a good job coming together and playing to their strength inside. They beat us inside a lot’, added Kamar Baldwin. BG Goettingen continued to shoot poorly under 40% while Frankfurt shot 48% from the field and 30% from outside. BG Goettingen had the slight 19-17 rebound edge.

The Fraport Skyliners continued to control the game in the third quarter leading 56-51, but a Frey outburst near the end shifted the momentum which totally turned in favor for BG Goettingen in the fourth quarter. The Fraport Skyliners began strong going on a 6-2 run as they continued to attack inside. Haarms made free throws, Mclean tapped in a Tez miss and Moore got the second touch down pass of the evening from Robertson for the comfortable 46-33 lead. Frankfurt heightened their defense and were doing a great job protecting the rim. Frankfurt continued to hold the double digit lead as Brenneke continued to be aggressive and scored 5 points in the paint and Mclean hit a runner for the 53-41 lead. But Frankfurt just couldn’t hold the consistency in the last minutes as it was Harald Frey’s time to step up as he scored 10 unanswered points in a row to bring BG Goettingen back to 56-51. Frey who hails from Norway and got professional experience in Spain hit two three’s and made a pretty lay in at the buzzer. Len Schoormann connected on a trey to keep the guests at bay. ‘It is only normal that a team of their calibur come back. When we don’t play defense, they make easy baskets’, stressed Diego Ocampo. ‘Harald Frey carried us and Akeem Vargas did a good job changing our defensive tempo. That allowed us to find our rhythm more and allowed us to run’, said Kamar Baldwin. BG Goettingen continued to shoot poorly under 40% while Frankfurt was potent in the two point range at 56%. Frankfurt had grabbed back the rebound edge 29-25.

In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners fell apart as they lost their lead and could only muster a poor 9 points. BG Goettingen stepped up their defense stopping Frankfurt on it’s first 5 possessions and grabbed back the lead with Nate Grimes free throws and a Jeff Roberson dunk to give the guests the 58-56 lead back. Mclean tied the game at 58-58 with free throws. But BG Goetingen then slammed the door shut on Frankfurt with a bitter 11-3 run to lead 69-61. BG Goettingen played smart and just did what good teams do which is executing their offense and getting stops. They got some key baskets inside from Toolson and Roberson and Baldwin hit a pretty step back jumper. Frankfurt looked helpless at times and had lost moral. They put up too many shots just for the sake of putting them up. Quantez Robertson was angry as one could see it in his eyes as he scored twice. But a last deep three by Baldwin who had that fancy step back iced the win for the 2010 Eurochallenge winner. ‘Coach changed up the game plan in the second half. We switched the cross screens into the post running the shooters off the three point line’, stated Kamar Baldwin. ‘We had a virus in the third quarter and it got worse in the fourth quarter. We didn’t shoot enough when we were open. We didn’t make good decisions or play brave’, stressed Diego Ocampo. BG Goettingen were led by Kamar Baldwin and Harald Frey who added 18 points a piece while Jake Toolson added 16 points. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jamel Mclean with 14 points and Harald Frey added 12 points. BG Goettingen shot 34% from the field and 38% form outside and had 37 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Fraport Skyliners shot 37% form the field and 19% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

It seems like every morning when you wake up and watch the top 10 NBA plays from the last night, you will see crazy unhuman dunks that show an athleticism that you saw here and there in the 80’s by fine specimen’s like a Dominigue Wilkins, Michael Jordan or Julius Irving. It just seems like the NBA Showtime that was created in the 80’s has gone to a new level. Now you see incredible dunks from so many different guys, the super stars. The up and coming players and even guys who play sparse minutes. The NBA lives from it’s athleticism and sometimes one has to wonder why the NBA legends of back in the day can’t accept the further development of the NBA. A guy like ex Chicago Bull Charkes Oakley recently spoke his mind and proclaimed that current NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo would only come from the bench back in the day. The freak Greek has dominated the NBA for years and has a special versatility that many would love to have and of course it would be interesting to see how he would have gone against a guy like Oakley in his prime. Fraport Skyliner lifer Quantez Robertson (188-G-1984, college: Auburn, agency: Interperformances) who has many more issues to worry about like recently having become a father for the third time and saving his team from leaving the easyCredit BBL had his two cents on the issue about the comments. NBA legend Charles Barkley who hasn’t had a positive history with Oakley defended the Greek Freak It is also interesting to note that Charles Barkley is an alumnist from Auburn (NCAA) where Robertson also went to. Quantez Robertson always has a lightening response on the floor especially on the defensive end, but took a few seconds to react to Oakley’s comment about Giannis. ‘When Giannis was younger, he probably would have come from the bench, but later with his physicality he would have been a starter. I think back in his day there were a select few who were as athletic as guys today’, stressed Quantez Robertson. Sometimes you wonder how guys back in the day would fair today. It is obvious that Tez is loyal to the ex Auburn (NCAA) great Barkley. ‘He would probably be better today. They don’t allow hand checks as much. He is a physical guy that can play on the perimeter and score in multiple way like Draymond Green. But Barkley is a better shooter than him’, expressed Quantez Robertson

I reach Quantez Robertson on a Monday night and in the back round as usual I hear the noisy commotion as it expected when you have kids. With the arrival of his third child recently, it has gotten even louder, but it’s all good for Tez. He is all business on the court and the same as a dad at home. ‘It was any different now then with my first two kids. I had little sleep the first few weeks. I’m used to the crying, dirty diapers and doing bottles. I’m getting back into rhythm. It’s still fun’, smiled Quantez Robertson. He also has to stick together with his only son as currently the men in the Robertson household are behind 3-2 to the women. ‘He knows that and that is why he tries to spend as much time as possible with me’, laughed Quantez Robertson. I actually wanted to talk to him on the weekend, but he courteously declined as he wanted to spend more time with his family as he had been away for a week in Spain in a special training camp with the Fraport Skyliners in Mallorca. Mallorca has been a place that the Skyliners have visited often since Robertson joined the club in 2009. ‘Mallorca is a nice place. It is a good place to go to to just get away and focus on team and basketball and get back in the flow and get to know the guys better’, said Quantez Robertson. There were distinct goals that the club wanted to accomplish on and off the court. ‘We just wanted to come together and have more bonding and get on the same page and learn the player’s strong points. Team building off the court was also very important. One night we were all together listening to music, watching a movie together and playing cards. We also took a trip on the island and jumped into cold water’, remembered Quantez Robertson. The Fraport Skyliners also wanted to get their game in shape at both ends for the coming weeks of truth. They score the least amount of points in the BBL and are the 10th best defensive team. They had a lot of work to cover. ‘Key on offense was working on taking care of the ball better. We turnover the ball too much. Vital is ball control and we worked on that. We also worked a lot on running our offense and executing better. On defense we worked on communication and our physicality. We want to be physical, but not overly physical so we pick up cheap fouls. We also worked on our help defense’, commented Quantez Robertson.

Basketball is a team sport, but still for the Fraport Skyliners to be successful, they will need extra help from certain guys on the team and one of those is American Rasheed Moore. Last season he had a very strong first BBL season after taking three years to come form the Regionalliga averaging 11.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 79.7%. But this season the forward hasn’t had as much luck currently averaging 8.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 69.0%. The consistency that he had last season just isn’t there, but then again it seems like he hasn’t been that offensive option that he was last season. ‘He has been kind of hesitant of taking his normal shots. I feel that he has worked hard on taking those kind of shots again in practice the last weeks. We really need him and he knows that’, warned Quantez Robertson. The ex wiha Panthers definitely doesn’t lack effort and the will to get better. The night before the team left for Mallorca, he was as usual taking in a Pro B game of the Skyliners farm team Juniors and after the game at 9:30 took in an extra work out putting up shots. ‘His motivation is there. He did the same last season. He was always in the gym on off days or after a practice to get up shots. That helped him find his rhythm’, stated Quantez Robertson. Another player that they will really need to step up besides the veterans Cherry and Mclean is youngster Brancou Badio who came to Frankfurt and needed no extra adjustment time as he is currently averaging 12.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 86.1%. ‘We have been doing different things to help him get better shots and to put him in better position to make plays. He also is doing better on defense. He is making more pressure and talking a little more’, said Quantez Robertson. Quantez Robertson always has an eye on everything and one player where he has seen progress is young German 18 year old Alexander Richardson. He may not get many minutes in the BBL, but in the Pro B is a key player and had some tough games recently. He came back and had a strong game against Orange Academy last weekend. ‘He has been doing good going up against Jamel, Matt and Brooks. He takes it as a challenge daily to go up against them and is learning. He has been practicing well and picking their brains and finding a way to play his game’, stated Quantez Robertson.

Another player the Fraport Skyliners will dearly need to produce better than in recent times is Quantez Robertson and he knows that. In his first nine BBL games, he scored in double figures in eight games, but since then only once in six games. ‘I have to get back to where I was offensively earlier in the season. It will come. I have to know between taking good and bad shots. I need to be patient and pick my spots. I think if I can get fast break buckets and get to the free throw line, it will be good. When you see the ball go in more like that, it becomes easier’, stressed Quantez Robertson. Tez always stresses that he has to be more aggressive and being aggressive is something he will continue to be, but he just has to execute better. ‘It’s tough when things don’t go right and then you stretch the issue and make bad decisions. I have been doing that. I got out of whack moving too fast. I need to slow down and take what the defense gives me’, warned Quantez Robertson. The three point ball is one that also has stifled Tez recently as in the last three games, it fell only once in 12 attempts. He knows what needs to be done to get back on track. ‘I took extra shots in Mallorca. I worked more on my mechanics as well. I just have to find a rhythm and get back to when I was shooting the ball better’, warned Quantez Robertson. The weeks of truth start today as the Fraport Skyliners have 4 games in 11 days and have to find a way to beat 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen who have been a big surprise this season and if the playoffs began tomorrow would be in it. ‘Goettingen’s success hasn’t surprised me. The team is full of unknown players. Nobody knows much about them until you play them. You just don’t know what to expect. They have come together very well and shoot the ball very well’, expressed Quantez Robertson. The standings are very tight now at the bottom and it will be a real dogfight between Frankfurt, Wurzburg and Giessen. The Fraport Skyliners have to start winning now. It is high noon and there can’t be any excuses. ‘We need a winning streak, but will take it game by game. We have to play as hard as we can and just execute the game plan. The young guys know how crucial and critical the next games are. We will come out and fight’, warned Quantez Robertson. Perhaps Quantez Robertson should try to check his connections at Auburn and see if a Charles Barkley would be available for a pep talk. If so, Tez would know exactly what Chuck would say. ‘The first thing that he would say would be to go out and hit some damn bodies. He would continue and tell us veterans to pick it up at both ends of the court and lead the team. He would also tell us that we veterans have to make the tough shots and plays’, warned Quantez Robertson.

Ta

Kamar Baldwin (185-G-1997, college: Butler) is a 24 year old 185 cm guard from Winder, Georgia playing his second professional season and first with BG Goetingen. Last season he played his rookie campaign with Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-BSL) playing 17 games averaging 6.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT-2 (94.7%); and played 8 BCL games averaging 6.1ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 60.0%: He began his basketball career with Apalachee High School. He then played at Butler University (NCAA) from 2016-2020 reaching the NCAA Sweet 16. In his last three seasons he averaged 16,0ppg, 4,0rpg and 3,0apg. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a game against the Fraport Skyliners

Kamar thanks for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask you about how you have experienced the whole Ukraine crisis in Germany. Have you been glued to CNN?

I have not followed it so much. But when I found out my former Butler (NCAA) teammate Avery Woodson played in the Ukraine, it caught my attention. I have ben keeping an eye on it now. I wish all the best for the Ukrainians. I hope Russia go back to Russia.

As an American where there isn’t war in the country, but where solders have always fought in other countries, how has it been for you being near to war in Europe? Do you feel safe in Germany?

I feel safe in Germany for the most part. It is different living in a country that is closer to a place that is at war. In Gottingen they had a bomb from World war 2 go up that was buried in the ground. That was scary.

Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany with BG Goettingen. After a so so rookie season you are the second best scorer in the easyCredit BBL. Does the BBL fit your game?

I feel that the BBL does fit my style. Coach Moers has a lot of confidence in my game and gives me a lot of responsibility. In my rookie season in Turkey, I had a lot of guys ahead of me. I was more of a defensive option. With Goettingen I play defense and am that offensive weapon.

If the playoffs began tomorrow BG Goettingen would be in the playoffs. The team is the best three point shooting team in the league. The club has more guys that can create and the team is allowing 10 points less than last year. What besides better organization has been key for the team defending better?

I think that paying attention to the scouting report and our opponents strengths has been key. I think that we are well connected as a team. And really important is that we always have really good practices leading up to games and that has translated well over to the games.

How important has veteran Akeem Vargas been for the team defense? How vital are his leadership qualities as well?

Akem has been great. He is our captain and has been around for a while and played for Alba Berlin. He knows all the players and has done a great job helping us navigate which helps us play better. He is an amazing leader that brings us all on the same page. In pre season he had everyone at his house. There was a lot of bonding. I think that has played a big part as to why we have been so successful.

The club recently signed Harald Frey. What kind of different dimension does he give the team now?

Harald has been great. He has the ability to create for others and himself. He is another weapon and takes a lot of pressure off the rest of the guys. His presence was felt right when he came. He had a great game against Ulm. He has been a great addition.

You’re a 185cm guard that has the complete package. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I haven’t heard any current NBA guys comparisons. My game is really centered around the mid range game so I have always modeled my game around Michael Jordan.

Your scoring skills really stand out, but what other strengths does your game have?

I’m a good defender and can rebound pretty well for my size. I also think that my passing is underrated.

You are an ambitious defender. What kind of defender are you now and what kind do you want to become?

I feel like I’m a decent defender now. Now I give up too many straight drives on the close out. I need to be able to put more pressure on the ball. I definitely want to become that lock down defender that can guard the other team’s best player while still being that scorer. I want to be able to play both sides and do at a more efficient rate.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most now so that you will continue to climb the basketball ladder?

I want to continue to work more on my three pointer and become more consistent. I worked very hard on my shot last summer. I also want to be more efficient on the offensive end. All in all work on all parts of my game.

Last season you played with Turk Telekom. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I remember when I flew from Atlanta to Istanbul, I had to find my next terminal. I knew they spoke English there, but not like at home. I had to figure out myself how to get to the terminal. That was my wake up call to being in a foreign country for the first time.

You had solid stats, but surely would have liked to have more of a role. Was it hard getting by the veteran guards Nick Johnson and Marcus Foster?

Yes it was. I felt like I competed in the practice at the same level as those guys. They were more experienced at that level. It was hard mentally not playing for some weeks at a time. I took the practice days as my game days to get better. This really helped me for this season and showed me not to take playing time for granted. Playing for Goettingen has been such a blessing. I’m trying to take the most of this opportunity.

You played at Butler from 2016-2020. You reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2018. What memories do you have of the 90-82 loss to North Carolina?

They won the NCAA title. I remember them being like a track team. They really knew how to push the ball well. They had some very good players with Justin Jackson, Joel Berry and Theo Pinson. They shot the ball very well. We had a very good year that season.

So many teams that you faced in the NCAA had guards that went to the NBA. In the NC game a guy like Theo Pinson went to the NBA. But you and Avery Woodson haven’t. Aren’t there just too many great guards on earth and too little NBA spots?

Yes you could say that. There is a lot of politics involved. Covid happened when I came out. It was frustrating. I didn’t know what would happen. But that’s life. I will continue to do the most of my chance in Goettingen. Maybe I will get a chance in the NBA one day.

You put up very consistent stats all four years. How do you feel did your game develop at Butler?

I became more of a complete player. I was able to read the defense better and played better with pace. I also feel like I was able to feel the rhythm of the game better and my IQ grew.

You had so many incredible games at Butler like the as a freshman scoring 30 + points against Georgetown and Seton Hall or your game winner over Xavier as a senior? But where does your game winner over Northwestern in only your second game at Butler rank?

I put the Northwestern game winner at number two and my number one is the Xavier game winner. I take Xavier because it was last game as a senior and plus they were our biggest rival.

How did head coach Lavall Jordan groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He helped me grow my IQ adding pace and more fundamentals. He also helped me with my passing and reading the defense. Coach basically helped me see the bigger picture.

Who won a one on one in practice you or Aaron Thompson?

We were pretty even. He is a very good defender. He is one of the top defenders in the nation now.

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

I would say Jalen Brunson. He had incredible pace and knew how to get to his spots. He was always under control and got what he wanted. I really respect his game. You always had to be ready when you played him,.

Please name your five best teammates of all-time?

Henry Baddley, Rickey Wonzon, Stephen Brown, Jeff Roberson, Kelan Martin and Shawn Mcdermott

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Kobe, Lebron, Kareem, Magic

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron and why isn’t Kobe mentioned more?

Jordan is the GOAT. I think Kobe isn’t mentioned more because he came right after Jordan. Kobe just doesn’t get respect.

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

I didn’t see the sequel, but I heard it was bad. They should of left it alone.

Thanks Kamar for the chat.

Skyler Bowlin (190-G-1989, college: MSSU) is a 32 year old 190cm guard that is playing his 11th season as a professional and his sixth in Germany and first with the Telekom Baskets Bonn currently averaging 11,7ppg, 2,0rpg and 3,9apg while shooting 43% from downtown. Last season he split time with GS Iraklis Thessaloniki (Greece-A1) averaging 8.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.4apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 47.1%, 3FGP: 30.8%, FT: 70.6% and also played with Enea Zastal BC Zielona Gora (Poland-EBl) averaging 9.7ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 78.3%.. In the 2019-2020 season he played with s.Oliver Wurzburg averaging 11.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 87.2%. and the season before averaged 9.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 70.7% in the BBL and in the Fiba Europe Cup averaged 8.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 5.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 72.2%. The ex Missouri So (NCAA2) began his professional basketball career with BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProA) and then played three seasons in Denmark with Horsens IC and a year in Sweden with the Sodertalje Kings (Sweden-Basketligan). He played two seasons in Germany with the Giessen 46ers and with Science City Jena (Germany-BBL) playing 32 games averaging 11.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 5.1apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 80.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the game against FC Bayern Munich

Thanks Skyler for talking to germanhoops.com. Before we talk about basketball, I have to ask about what your feeling about the conflict in the Ukraine. How have you taken in all the drama in the last almost two weeks?

The situation in Ukraine is very unfortunate. I try to keep up with things that happen each day and just hope that it ends as soon as possible. No one deserves what is happening right now in that country.

Do you feel safe in Germany and have you ever wondered if a third world war could break out?

I feel very safe here in Germany. It’s scary to think maybe another big war could happen, but these days you should never say never.

Congrats on the massive 101-96 shoot out win against the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. How good did it feel getting revenge from the first loss?

The win against them was huge. The standings are so close that every single win is important.

There was little that separated both clubs in the first 30 minutes. Did it feel like May and being like a high spirited playoff match?

There was definitely a high energy in the game. I feel like a lot of these games the last month or 2twowill feel like that.

The fourth quarter was really exciting. Bonn got away a bit before crunch-time, but Crailsheim never gave up and cut down to three points with 48 seconds remaining. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

We did a lot better job on Shorts in the second half. He’s a very good player and we limited him as much as we could which is why I believe we got the win.

TJ Shorts had another great game with 29 points. Does one get the sense that his motivation has risen since playing in the Cup Final 4?

I think he’s always in attack mode. I doubt he’s a guy that needs any extra motivation.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright had a solid game with 13/5/7 stats in the win. Is it fair to say that he didn’t have to do as much in the scoring department because of Javontae Hawkins big game?

You could say that. We have different guys who can step up each night when needed. Parker does so much for us so we have to help him out however we can.

What type of dimension does Javontae Hawkins give the team and what has really stuck out in his game since he got more minutes?

Hawk does a bit of everything on the court. He’s athletic, can shoot, defend. He’s a guy that just gives you so much so it’s nice that he’s back healthy and on our side.

Jackson-Cartwright continues to have very solid games. Do you feel like teams are even more aware of him since his 40 point explosion over Bamberg?

I think teams noticed how good Parker was very early on. The 40 point game was amazing, but teams already focused on him a lot before that.

Many of the pundits as well as basketball magazine BIG have TJ Shorts currently as the MVP. Is that hard to comprehend for you seeing where Bonn and Crailsheim are in the standings.

Everyone has their own opinion so I can’t really say much to that. He’s a great player along with a lot of other guys in the league who are in that conversation.

His stats are almost identical only that Shorts scores 2 points more while playing 2 minutes more. Does he have to do more for his team to be successful than Parker does?

Crailsheim also has other guys who can do things but of course the offense is focused around Shorts. He makes everyone better.

The regular season is winding down and now teams have more games and less time to recuperate. Obviously the Fiba window gave teams time to rest, but how good is the team fitness level currently?

I think we are feeling good. Everyone has bumps and bruises at this point but we have to push.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Telekom Baskets Bonn? Does the atmosphere and culture there tell you that this will have a special season ending?

We have some great fans. I hope by the end of the year we can get back to full capacity. They help us every game and really give us the extra edge in our games.

Your having another very solid BBL season. Since years you have been a very solid BBL player after paying dues in lower leagues. Do you ever wonder how your career may have gone had you never set foot in Germany?

I always wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t been given an opportunity to play in the BBL. I’m very grateful for the experience and just want to continue to get better and win games. Germany has been so good to me and my family.

What is it like playing for Tuomas Iisalo? What is his biggest asset that has made him be able to make Crailsheim and Bonn so competitive?

Tuomas is a great coach. I tell everyone that asks, the reason he has so much success with his teams is that he demands success. He pushes you mentally and physically so much that you have no choice but to get better.

What is your impression of the Crailsheim Merlins? Do they have the ability to win the Fiba Europe Cup?

Crailsheim is a very good team. I think they definitely have a chance.

What has it been like playing together with Parker Jackson-Cartwright? I’m sure he is your BBL MVP: What does he give the team that you feel maybe isn’t seen in comparison to what Shorts gives Crailsheim?

Parker is first of all great person. Regardless of the on court stuff, he treats people the right way all the time and always brings a good attitude and mindset. On the court he does so much for us on both ends. He’s so fast and creates a lot of problems on both sides of the ball.

You don’t have much time to relax as 72 hours after the Crailsheim win, you battle top team FC Bayern Munich. You lost the first game 100-81. How confident are you that they won’t hit 19 three’s again?

It never gets easier in the BBL. We have to regroup and get ready to compete as hard as we can.

FC Bayern Munich has Paul Zipser back who played a few years with the Chicago Bulls. What kind of a dimension does he give the team?

It’s good to see Paul back on the court. He’s very skilled and a big body so he can cause a lot of problems.

What is your opinion of Charles Barkley’s assessment that Giannis would only come from the bench back in the day?

Ah man I think the older guys just like to talk on TV for stories. No chance they actually believe the stuff they say all the time

Thanks Skyler for the chat.

Tags : SKYLER BOWLIN, TELEKOM BASKETS BONN, GERMAN BASKETBALL

Some weeks ago, some very bold people including myself were talking about the playoffs for the Dragons Rhondorf, but with the season winding down, the playdowns seem to be the more logical choice. In mid January, the playoffs seemed the goal after having a three game winning streak, but since the club has rode a four game losing streak and were two wins shy of the playoffs with four games remaining. The goal for the Dragons Rhondorf was to get as many wins as possible so that when the playdowns begin, they will be in good position not having to worry about moving back to the Regionalliga. Rhondorf met the ambitious team RheinStars who had had a very disappointing season and recently had let go of head coach Simon Cote and named German basketball legend and Rheinstars maker Stephan Baeck as head coach. A Cologne team that was filled with unending talent have simply underachieved and had lost three of the last four games, but came to Rhondorf with self-confidence having destroyed hapless Hamburg. The RheinStars came to the Dragon Dome with seemly half of their roster filled with ex Dragons as names like Wendeler and Michel were still very well remembered. The Dragons Rhondorf entered the contest with a must win situation and knew that the RheinStars actually had to win more, but after almost letting the game slip away in the fourth quarter fought back by the hot shooting of German Nicolas Buchholtz and took control in overtime and never looked back securing the huge 97-90 victory over the RheinStars Cologne. ‘Our will and energy got us the win. We also got a lot of support from our faithful fans. We really needed this win badly and wanted it more than they did at the end’, stressed ex Rostock Seawolf Nicolas Buchholz. The RheinStars Cologne gave a massive fight, but just didn’t have the needed energy in overtime to get the win. ‘We lost it in the first half with 14 turnovers. Our defensive principles weren’t there. We know our offense will come when our defensive principles are there. We ran our sets better in the second half and stuck to our defensive principles. They weren’t perfect, but we figured them out’, stated RheinStars guard Vincent Golson.

The first quarter saw a fast start by the Dragons Rhondorf only to see the RheinStars fight back and trail only 18-15 after one quarter. The Dragons Rhondorf didn’t waist any time from the get go taking a quick 14-4 lead. Buchholz got his game going quickly hitting two three’s while Senegal sensation Ousmane Ndiaje also netted one from the parking lot. Rhondorf also got buckets from identity figure Viktor Frankl -Maus and Brazilian center Marcelo Ruedinger. Rhondorf did a super job containing Golson and Mvouika well while getting their rhythm on offense right away. On defense, they played with a high intensity not allowing Cologne to get into their sets well. But the guests finally found a rhythm on offense getting their ball movement going and getting young German Ay-keen Richardson more involved, a guy Rhondorf might not have had on their scouting report. In the run, Richardson contributed 8 points as his game intelligence and aggressiveness was very refreshing. Cologne stepped up their defense and ex German batchelor Andrej Mangold brought the needed energy and precise playmaking skills that brought the guests back into the contest. ‘We went off the offensive pedal and Oshane Drews getting into quick foul trouble hurt us’, stressed Nicolas Buchholz (200-PG-2001).

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf got their game going again, took a good lead and kept it being led by the scoring abilities of Nicolas Buchholz while the RheinStars coughed up the ball too much and had problems finding an offensive flow. Both teams got their offensive rhythm quickly as Richardson kept up his offensive fury with a trey only to have Frankl-Maus also score from outside as Rhondorf led 22-18. Cologne stayed on Rhondorf’s door step getting a rare basket from Golson who had difficulty with the aggressive man defensive and ex Dragons Florian Wendeler also scored as Rhondorf only led 24-22. But the Dragons Rhondorf then took charge being led by Buchholz who showed his total versatile game proving he is more than just a three point threat scoring inside twice and swiping an offensive rebound for the 31-22 advantage. But Rhondorf allowed Cologne to hang around as American rookie Elijah Schmidt who averaged only 3,0ppg coming into the game scored in the paint and Mangold hit a trey to cut Rhondorf’s lead down to 31-28. But the Dragons Rhondorf always had an answer when Cologne made comebacks and closed out the second quarter with a 15-6 run to lead comfortably 46-34 after 20 minutes. In the run, it was Buchholz again who remained aggressive hitting a trey and made a thunderous dunk. Rhondorf also got a massive dunk from Ralph Hounnou who saw the highway from the wing and also got valuable support from young German Samuel Nellessen who scored four points. Ndiaje also added a 20 footer. Cologne had some inconsistent phases on offense and continued to suffer too many turnovers and on defense had breakdowns which led to easy baskets by Rhondorf. ‘We did a good job building a lead and keeping it. Sam Nellessen also played great. He had a very good week of practice and deserved the minutes’, stated Nicolas Buchholz.

The Dragons Rhondorf held the lead in the third quarter, but could never fully shake the RheinStars who continued to fight and be in striking range. The RheinStars came out of halftime refocused and rapidly stopped the Dragons first four possessions and scored 5 points getting a lay in from German Florian Von Seckendorff and a three by Golson who was still finding his groove as Rhondorf led only 46-39. Their run would continue as they went on a 7-3 run to trail the Dragons only 49-46. Cologne got some clutch buckets from ex Dragon Thomas Michel who played three BBL games with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. Michel who always plays with high energy nailed a trey and scored a lay in after Wendeler secured an offensive rebound. Wendeler also scored in the paint as three Dragons turnovers in a row helped the guests make the big comeback. Cologne’s offense showed successful pick and roll and team basketball while Rhondorf was forced more to one on one plays which they couldn’t execute. Rhondorf also got some key baskets from ex Paderborn forward Paul Albrecht and Ruediger, but a Golson three pointer kept Cologne in striking range as they were only down 55-51. Rhondorf got some key baskets in the last two minutes as German Ralph Hounnou scored in the paint and Oshane Drews made an incredible off balance shot at the buzzer for the 61-53 advantage after 30 minutes. ‘We knew being down by 12 wasn’t much. We got better into the game and kept the ball on one side and played more aggressive at both ends’, stated Vincent Golson. The RheinStars remained to shoot under 40% from the field and outside while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 43% from the field and 30% from outside. Cologne had the 31-30 rebound edge while the Dragons had the 11-10 offensive rebound edge, while Cologne had 21 turnovers and Rhondorf 16.

In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf kept the lead and seemed like they would keep it, but they allowed it to shrink and they lost the lead in crunch-time. Rhondorf had a good start with a 8-4 run to lead 69-57 as whenever Cologne struck, Rhondorf had a counter punch. The Dragons received vital three’s from Buchholtz and Frankl-Maus. But the lead would not be a safe thing in the last 10 minutes as the RheinStars kept chipping away. Golson heightened his game from quarter to quarter and there was also Rom Mvouika who had had 0 points after 30 minutes, but would add 6 key ones in crunch-time. But Rhondorf still kept the comfortable lead momentarily as Ralph Hounnou scored back to back buckets as Rhondorf led 72-62. But then came the RheinStars as they made one last push overwhelming the Dragons Rhondorf going on a 14-3 run to take the 78-75 lead. Golson and Mvouika added four points a piece, but it was also the young German Richardson who continued to want the ball and executed scoring 5 points. ‘Our young buck Ay-Keen Richardson made big shots. We played with confidence, but not out of our element. We ran our sets better and didn’t let them push us out of the zone’, commented Vincent Golson. But Rhondorf wasn’t done yet. They came up big on the defensive end as Hounnou made a huge block on Richardson which led to Frankl-Maus free throws as Cologne led only 78-77. Golson added two free throws for the 80-77 advantage. But the Dragons Rhondorf had 14 seconds left and saved their best for last moving the ball great and letting their shilled passer Paul Albrecht to find a wide open Buchholz who had had the hot hand all night long and didn’t disappoint nailing the buzzer beater and sending the game into overtime. ‘They played zone in the run and we had no energy. On my shot, I had a good feeling that it would go in’, stated Nicolas Buchholz. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 41% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 40 rebounds and 21 turnovers while the RheinStars shot 44% from the field and 43% from the three point line and had 40 rebounds and 23 turnovers.

In the overtime period the Dragons Rhondorf came out with a high intensity and just wanted it more than the guests. Ron Mvouika gave Cologne the 83-81 advantage, but Frankl-Maus came back with a trey to give Rhondorf the 84-83 lead and they would never trail again. After a stop, Rhondorf got a big basket from Paul Albrecht for the 86-83 lead. Rhondorf then found the needed energy on defense to get stops and got free throws from Drews and Buchholtz for the commanding 91-85 lead. After Golson free throws, Buchholtz put a nail on the coffin with a clutch three giving Rhondorf the 94-88 advantage. Rhondorf got two more stops which led to Albrecht and Drews free throws securing the victory. ‘We had more will and energy in overtime. Our condition also was better than them’, stressed Nicolas Buchholz. ‘We fell apart in overtime. We couldn’t get stops. We were a bit tired and just gave up’, stated Vincent Golson. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Nicolas Buchholz with 31 points. Viktor Frankl-Maus added 17 points and Paul Albrecht 12 points while the RheinStars Cologne were led by Vincent Golson with 30 points and Ay-Keen Richardson added 20 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 42% from the field and 32% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 23 turnovers while the RheinStars Cologne shot 42% from the field and 36% from outside and had 43 rebounds and 25 turnovers.