Isaiah Swope´s(Skyliners) Recipe To Making Consistent Clutch Shots Is Playing Off Momentum, Instincts And What He Practices

,Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

When one looks back on the last 8 easyCredit seasons of the Skyliners, success hasn´t been etched in their name. The last time they reached the playoffs without help of the 19-20 Covid season was 2018 where a certain formula of success in the name of Gordon Herbert was coaching the team. In the last 8 years the club has brought in many talented players young and old including some very special players that could produce those unique highlight films in terms of scoring. If I had to chose 3 guys that were the most dominant 1-1 guys the 2004 BBL champion had in the last 8 years then it would have to be Matt Mobley, Malik Parsons and current explosive rookie Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis). Both Parsons and Swope scored in double figures in 12 of their first 14 games including cup games for Frankfurt. The only real distinct difference is that Frankfurt is winning more with Swope then they were with Parsons and Swope is also only a rookie. The current Skyliners has been refreshing as winning is happening again. Both Parsons and Swope have that exceptional quality of creating their own shots and making difficult shots. Swope has done it over and over this season hitting massive shots. He pulled his biggest trick so far this season scoring 11 points in a row in Jordan esc manner and propelling the team to the victory over Jena and 2 days ago in Heidelberg nailing a crunch-time trey with under 2,00 minutes securing the win and registering a season high 29 points. His recipe of success is simple and it simply works and he sticks to it. “I just try to do what I practice. That is where I´m most comfortable. I play off momentum, instincts and what I practice”, stressed Isaiah Swope.

After having lost 3 of their last 4 games, the Skyliners wanted to leave 2025 with a win in Heidelberg. Heidelberg were also reeling to win again after a disastrous 100-67 game against Bonn in their own living room. As the doormat of the BBL, Heidelberg had to react and did with a strong performance against Frankfurt. Frankfurt came into the game prepared and never underestimated them. “It was urgent as always to win as every game is tough. Every team in the BBL is good. It doesn´t matter where a team is in the standings. You have to win every game. We also had a tough loss. It was a game with 2 teams coming off tough loses. I think the main focus of both teams was to perform better than the last game. That was why the game was so tight”, stated Isaiah Swope. It was one of those rare and unique games where it went back and forth for 38 minutes until mr Clutch Isaiah Swope did his thing. Basketball is a game of runs and for a team to go on a 8-0 or 10-2 run in a game is as usual as Wemby of the Spurs registering 2-3 blocks a game. But in Heidelberg, big rusn weren´t on the menu that night. Was a back and forth punching like in Heidelberg the first of it´s kind for him? “I have had multiple games like that in my career. Games where no team can really break away and where there are runs of 2-4 points. You need to figure out how to execute at the end and force them to as tough shots as possible”, said Isaiah Swope.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Isaiah Swope in Frankfurt 2025

The ex Saint Louis University (NCAA) guard whom would always take himself over current teammate Nahiem Alleyne in a 1-1 battle in practice made baskets early, but Heidelberg had the early 19-18 advantage after 10 minutes. Did Swope already feel like he was getting into the zone for a remarkable scoring game early? “It always depends how the game is going. I just try to go in and find a flow like I did in the last games and just build off it. I just do what I know”, said Isaiah Swope. Heidelberg had allowed an excess of 100 points in the last 2 games, but defended with more passion and authority against Frankfurt and only trailed 36-33 at the break. “We both had tough loses before and hadn´t been playing to our standard. The goal was to play as hard as possible. Sometimes a game won´t be pretty”, stated Isaiah Swope. Till Pape was back after missing the Munich game as his presence not being there was felt by the Skyliners. “When he is on the floor, his presence is really felt. He is a huge mismatch issue. He makes everything easier for us. I´m grateful that he could play against Heidelberg”, added Isaiah Swope. The third quarter remained a back and forth punch affair as no team could get away, but Heidelberg stole the lead back at 59-57. “The main focus for us as a group going into the fourth quarter was defense. We have had plenty of games where our offense eventually played well. If we play good defense then the rest will take care of it´s self. We did a good job taking away their second chance points”, commented Isaiah Swope. With less than 2 minutes to play ex MHP Riesen guard Radii Caisin made a big three as did Swope did for the 74-.70 lead and that was that as the Skyliners would never trail again. “Radii´s shot was off energy. This was the first point of the game that we were able to break away. The momentum swung in our direction and we built on it to get the win”, stressed Isaiah Swope. The Skyliners are back on the mat on January 3rd in Rostock. Rostock like Heidelberg will also be hungry for redemption as they suffered a tough 85-67 loss to FC Bayern Munich on December 31st. “We have to figure out what Rostock do well and then take it away or make it as tough as possible for them. We just have to believe in ourselves and we will be fine”, warned Isaiah Swope.

This season the ex University of Southern Indiana (NCAA2) guard is averaging 15/3/2/1 stats in 25 minutes per game. As a rookie he has held his own well and continuing to get adjusted while being able to shine playing his game. But most important of all, he is grateful for being able to play the game he loves. “I´m just really appreciative that I can play professional basketball overseas. I feel like I could be playing a lot better, but at the same time, I understand that it´s my first year and I´m still learning. My main goal is to win and if I can do that, then I´m happy”, expressed Isaiah Swope. As a rookie overseas he is averaging 11 minutes less than at St Louis, but only averaged 2 points more last season. What is interesting is that his game has gotten a big push not necessarily from on the court. “I feel like I have grown more these first few months off the court. It has been a big change going from all that I have been used to the last years. Going through that change on a daily basis has helped me the most with basketball”, stated Isaiah Swope. He had a consistent career in the NCAA and shot around 38% from outside the last 3 years. How difficult is it being consistent while taking many shots per game? “I just do what I do in practice. I´m ok with the results. I feel like my numbers will always average out to what they are supposed to be. I think that I have missed a few shots in each game so far where it had nothing to do with the defense, but it was on me. I think that I´m learning every game and the more we play together as a team and keep figuring it out, the more consistent we will get as a team”, warned Isaiah Swope. He surely could show some more aspects of his game then just clutch scoring, but for him it is all about having success as a team. “My main focus is winning. As long as we win, then I´m not concerned with personal accomplishments. That comes with winning. If we win, then I can automatically show who I am as a player”, stressed Isaiah Swope. 2026 is here and there is always that question. Did he have any new years resolution? “I do not. I live my life no matter what year it is. Every day is like a new years resolution for me”, said Isaiah Swope. It will be interesting to see how Isaiah Swope´s rookie season continues to progress and can he be that next rookie since Justin Cobbs to help the Skyliners reach the playoffs again?

Jake Biss Understands That The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Will Have To Get Better At Making The Necessary Adjustments In Order To Be Successful In 2026

Pic credit: Dennis Green

Jake Biss (188-G-1998, college: Shippensburg) is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Latrobe, Pennsylvania playing his fourth professional season and third in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season with Bremerhaven he averaged 8.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 87.5%. In 2023-2024 he played with Gartnezaun24 Baskets Paderborn averaging 11.7ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 77.4%. In his rookie season he played with he played with the Den Helder Suns (Holland-DBL) averaging 12.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 90.3% in the BNXT league. He began his basketball career at Greater Latrobe High School and then played at ShippensburgUniversity (NCAA2) from 2017-2022 amassing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen.

Congrats on the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen in overtime. How big was the win after the tough loss against Kirchheim?

Thank you! It definitely feels good to get back in the win column. We dropped a few games that had us a little out of sync, but this win felt like the way we were playing at the start of the season.

Before we get to the game, talk a little about Kirchheim. They are one of the hottest teams in the Pro A at the moment. What made it so difficult to play them?

Yeah, they’re a really talented team and have been playing really well. They did a few things defensively that I think caught us off guard a little. They got us out of our offensive flow, but we also missed a lot of shots and didn’t give ourselves the best chance of getting a win in Kirchheim.

The first quarter was a real back and forth affair. It was dominated by the 2 point shot. How vital was it for Elijah Miller to get going early? He would be an instrumental part of the offensive attack.

Yeah Elijah definitely stepped up big. He’s not one to let anything faze him and you could just tell that he was locked in from start to finish. Coach talked to us about staying aggressive and Elijah did a great job keeping pressure on the rim.

Bremerhaven went on a big run at the start of the second quarter to lead 34-23. You hit 2 back to back three´s. How good did that feel beating your season average of 5,0ppg in 2 shots?

I didn’t even know those were my numbers so that honestly didn’t register with me at all. It’s always good when you can find a little rhythm in a game and knock a few shots down consecutively. It’s a momentum booster for sure.

Tuebingen came back and trailed only 43-37 at the break. Carlos Carter made some big shots in that stretch. He is the heart and soul of the team. Where would the team be without him?

We certainly wouldn’t be the team we are without him. Carlos is as versatile as it gets and with us dealing with some injuries over the past few weeks, he’s had to move back and forth from playing the 3 and 4 which is never an easy assignment, but he’s done a great job with it.

Tuebingen went on a 11-0 run to begin the third quarter and bang they had the 48-45 lead. What did Bremerhaven get away from to allow that furious comeback by the guests?

I don’t know if we got away from much that we were doing in the first half. I’m sure we gave them a few more open looks in that stretch that we could’ve done better with, but I don’t think they missed on that run. They made some tough shots, and we unfortunately weren’t making shots in that stretch.

Hendrik Warner made a bucket late in the third quarter but Tuebingen still led 59-57 after 30 minutes. How tough was it watching the mis fortune of Warner on this day? It was one of those days where nothing fell for him except for that?

The good thing about our team is that we have a deep bench. If Hendrik or anyone else isn’t having their best night, we have a lot of other guys that can go out and have a solid night. Sure, Hendrik might not have been finishing like he usually does, but he’s always doing a lot of those little things that go unnoticed but make a huge difference throughout the game.

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as lead changes occurred instantly. Tuebingen could of won the game on the last shot, but Felix Edwardsson missed. How do you remember that last shot?

I can’t lie I remember seeing him take that last shot but how he got that open I’m not too sure. There must have been some type of miscommunication on our end. Thankfully it didn’t go in.

What did head coach Steve Esterkamp tell the team to do going into the OT?

I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I know he was pretty calm and collected. It didn’t feel much different than say, going into the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th quarters. We just knew we added a little more time to the game and had to stick to what we were doing and find a way to grind out the win.

Bremerhaven dominated 23-8. What was key for getting the win? The love of spreading the ball was totally there?

Yeah, like you said we had the ball moving. I feel that this team is very unselfish and when we keep the ball moving on offense, we’re really hard to defend against and I hope that’s how Tuebingen felt.

Did you want it more than they did? Where was this game won? The stats were quite even.

It kind of felt that way. I feel like we had great energy from start to end which has been something we haven’t had in the last four or five games. When we keep that energy and fight for all 40 minutes, we can be dangerous.

You had a 12/1/5/2 game in 30 minutes. You shot well and found your teammates. How happy were you with your game?

You know me man, I’m big on doing the little things that go unnoticed which help bring wins. Doing those small things usually lead to a pretty decent stat line so I’m happy with how the game went, but I’m going to keep making sure the small details are a priority.

Bremerhaven had a great start with 8-2 in the season. But then lost 4 of 5 games. Did the team feel a little pressure of starting so well?

No, I don’t think so. We just got a little out of sync, but I’m confident we can build a nice winning streak again.

It seemed like there were games where nothing worked on offense. Was that more on the team or did opponents scout you better?

I’m sure it’s been a little bit of both. Teams have done a good job trying to take away what we like to get to offensively, but that’s where we need to be better as a team at making the necessary adjustments.

Last season you averaged 8/2/2 in 22 minutes and this season 5/1/1 in 22 minutes. Is your role pretty much the same?

No, coach moved me to the 2 and brought Raphael in at the 1 which I think was a great move. I think I’m more effective playing off the ball and making plays for guys that way. When Raphael got hurt the team needed me back at the 1, so as of now I’m in a similar role as last season. But Raphael is a really good point guard with a high basketball IQ and I’m excited for him to get back on the court with us when he’s healthy again.

You were more of a scorer in Paderborn and Holland and in school. You’re a guy that plays for the best of the team. Is this something that has been difficult to get used to or was there no problem?

No problem at all. I’ve been more of a scorer on some not so good teams and I’m currently on a great team but not the primary scorer. And I’ll say every single time that I’d much rather be on a winning team and do what the team needs me to do whether that’s scoring or not, rather than scoring a bunch and losing night in and night out.

Today you shot 60% from outside and are scratching the 40%. It is no secret that shot selection is so vital overseas. How big of a challenge and exciting is it for you knowing when to shoot and when rather not to?

That’s very true. At the professional level, shot selection has much more of an importance compared to college – in my experience at least. It’s definitely been something I had to work on, but I understand why it is so important and it’s helped me understand the European playing style more.

Are you working on anything extra this season besides your shot and my decision making when coming off ball screens

Yeah, when we can get in the paint, our offense becomes a lot harder to guard. So, I’ve definitely worked on my floater a lot more in the past two seasons and over the summer on top of working on decision making on ball screens and my shot.

Bremerhaven next battle Phoenix Hagen in 2026. What will be key to getting the win?

I haven’t put much thought to that game yet. I definitely have that “one game at a time” mentality, but we’ll get in the gym this week and prepare for Hagen and do what we can to come out with a win.

Do you have any new years resolutions?

Nothing yet. I guess I only have a few more days to think of one. I’ll get something figured out though.

Thanks Jake for the chat.

Radii Caisin´s(Skyliners) Special Role Consists Of Him To Always Look And Try To Take The Perfect Shot Every Time
,
Foto credit: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.

Radii Caisin (198-SG-2001) is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing the 2025-2026 season with the Frankfurt Skyliners. He played the last 2 seasons with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3%and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. He played parts of 4 seasons in the easyCredit BBL with teams MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, MBC and Crailsheim. He played 3 seasons in the Rasta Vechta organization. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 80-75 win over the MLP Academics Heidelberg

Congrats Radii on the big 80-75 win in Heidelberg. How urgent was this game to win after the tough loss to FC Bayern Munich?

The way we put the Munich game in the sand and then had to play against one of the worst teams in the BBL, this game was urgent for us. You have to win these kind of games. It wasn´t our best game in Heidelberg. We won more with will than beauty.

The MLP Academics have had a tough season and lost very badly to Bonn a few days ago. How key was it for the team to go into the game not to underestimate them?

It was a big challenge coming to their place and playing against a team that lost very badly against Bonn. Plus one import was released by them and another was injured. They had nothing to lose. They played with 120% against us something they didn´t do in their last games. They did a good job staying with us. We had to take them very seriously.

This was a very rare game where it was really back and forth for 38 minutes. Have you ever had a game like this that was so tight for almost 40 minutes?

I actually have played games like this where it went back and forth. In these type of games it is simply important to get stops. We did that in crunch-time at the right moment.

Damariae Horne got going right away in the first quarter and finished with 32 points. What made it so difficult to contain him?

We knew going in that he was one of their key players. He had even more weight on his shoulders with 2 less imports. He may have had a few easy looks, but he is still a very talented player. We were a bit behind on some cuts and pin downs. That gave him holes to score easier.

Isaiah Swope made big buckets in the last minutes of the first quarter to keep Frankfurt close and trailing 19-18 after 10 minutes. Have you ever played with such a consistent dominant player that brings his A game every game?

I actually have played with players like Swope. When I was in Vechta there were guys like Austin Hollins and TJ Bray that could score every game the way Isaiah does. You simply know exactly what you get from guys like that. There can always be days where their shots don´t fall, but we s a team always trust them to shoot.

The Skyliners led 36-33 at the break. Heidelberg had allowed over 100 points the last 2 games, but defended a lot better against you. What adjustments did they make on the defensive end?

I don´t think that it was so much on them, but more on us. We just couldn´t play our game and didn´t have great ball movement. We held the ball too long at times and took shots near the end of the shot clock. We just didn´t play good offense. We only had 2 fast break baskets at the break. Transition is our game and we weren´t able to play it as much as we wanted.

Till Pape was back and made big baskets in the third quarter. What extra dimension did he give the team that it didn´t have against Munich?

He gives us more height. When he isn´t on the floor, our inside game suffers as does our rebounding. Without Till, we are simply too one dimensional.

Heidelberg led 59-57 after 30 minutes. What did Klaus Perwas tell the team to do going into the fourth quarter?

At that moment it was all about who wanted it more. Klaus told us that we had too stay together and give that last push and get stops. He wanted us to defend and play with will.

The turning point came when you hit a trey and Isaiah Swope a three at the 1,43 minute mark to lead 74-70. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

Defense and will won us the game. We got key rebounds and contained Williamson better. We also controlled second chance points. We also forced turnovers. When that happens, it is a lot easier to play offense.

The Skyliners next play Rostock. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to heighten our defense after the way we played against Munich. We can´t give up easy baskets. We have to paly our game more and go back to our roots against Rostock.

You had a 8/3 game in 19 minutes. How content were you with your game?

It was ok. The second half was better than the first half.

Your averaging 6/3 stats in 17 minutes. You always give needed energy from the bench. Did your 2 years in Austria pay off for you?

Yes 100% it has paid off for me. In Austria my role was different, but I still had to show what I can do on the court to reach the easyCredit BBL level. Everything fits well with Klaus Perwas.

Your averaging 15 minutes less than last year in Wels. You have never taken more than 4 shots in a game this season. How challenging is shot selection for you? Are you looking and trying to take the perfect shot every game?

In a way yes. The shots that Isaiah Swope take may not be ideal, but he is allowed to take them. I won´t take those type of shots. I took shots like that last season, but don´t need to this season. My game is simple with the Skyliners. I have the green light to take open shots from the three point line or closer. I can also attack closeouts, but not create my own shots.

You give a lot of energy on the court. What else would you like to show more on the court that you haven´t been able to show yet?

I just try to improve step by step. I know I can show more, but with this team I don´t have to in the role that I have. I´m still young and still have time to show more in the next years.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Will Christmas?

I do.

What are your new years resolutions?

I want to become more disciplined off the court and read more books. On the court to invest more and grow step by step.

Thanks Radii for the chat.

Anthony Watkins Will Never Forget The Christmas Eve Missions With His Dad In Tennessee

Anthony Watkins (194-PG-2000) isn´t only a special basketball player that has reached the highest level in Germany with the easyCredit BBL, but also has had a unique Christmas life that not many can say that they have had. As a boy that grew up in the States with an American father, but had a German mom, he witnessed Xmas from both cultures. “I got the best of both worlds. It was always just the three of us and the Christ kind on the 24th with some great world famous lasagna that my mom made as well as the presents from the Christ kind. Then on the 25th we’d go to Nanny’s (my dad’s mom) and watch the NBA games and eat some mac and cheese, collard greens (my favorite), cornbread, pies, turkey, dressing, and the works. I stayed away from the chitterlings though! I would get some presents there too, but the main event was on Christmas Eve. Once we got a bigger house and Nanny got older, we would host Christmas Day which was cool as well”, remembered Anthony Watkins. Christmas is all about family and that was always a big focus in the Watkins family. “Christmas means making time for one another. Coming from a family of ambitious and hardworking people, who spend a lot of their time serving others, it’s always great to see that energy go entirely toward the people closest and dearest for a few days”, stressed Anthony Watkins.

Usually Christmas Eve in the States is about being at home and just spending precious time with the loved ones. Eating scrumptious food, listening to Xmas songs and watching Xmas movies is also on the menu. “Lasagna is my favorite Xmas food and my mom’s gingerbread cookies that we have to hide from my dad for anyone to have a chance to get some. Polar Express has always been a classic for me, but there is also a Rudolph and the Reindeer Games VHS Tape somewhere that I used to love to watch during this season, and that’s probably the reason why Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is my favorite Christmas song”, said Anthony Watkins. However in the Watkins family, there is so much more to do than just eat and watch movies. Anthony and his dad actually had a very stressful day getting so much ready for Xmas. “Christmas Eve was when my dad and I went to work! We’d get up in the morning, driving through town to see if we could find a Christmas tree somewhere (results may vary) and somehow, we always found one my mom approved of. Once we brought the tree back, it was time to go through all the stores we could to get the gifts we needed for the night. After we got all the gifts, we’d grab some McChickens and a Sweet Tea off the dollar menu to “knock the dust off” and headed to Nanny’s to wrap the presents so we could hand them over to the Christkind in time to give to my mom. Those Christmas Eve missions are some of my fondest memories with my dad. And topping it off with presents and the world famous lasagna makes them unforgettable”, said Anthony Watkins. Getting presents is always special for kids, but sometimes it takes a little bit of disappointment before the real climax hits at least in the Watkins family. “The presents were always great, but what I loved more was the performances my parents would organize to give me special gifts. One example was when I got my Xbox One. I had gotten a controller for it, and didn’t see any gifts left under the tree. My mom had said she wanted to at least give me a piece of the Xbox even though they couldn’t get me the whole thing. The whole family was there (even my grandparents and uncle from Germany) and I remember being disappointed, but also still being grateful for what I had gotten. We sat around and talked about our gifts and other things for a while when Nanny went to “go smoke” (she hadn’t smoked in years I think) my dad said to go with her, which made it even more odd, but she didn’t come over often so I rolled with it. I went with her to the back porch and there it was: The Xbox One I had wanted for almost two years since it came out, in all its glory”, added Anthony Watkins. He also remembers his most cherished moment when he gave a loved one a gift. “Being able to gift the novel I wrote and dedicated to my grandfather to my grandmother and mom was a pretty special moment. It was something I had worked on for years and that took a lot of courage to publish. Now I’ve released the sequel and am working on part three, and my mom is actually helping me to translate book one into German”, commented Anthony Watkins.

Anthony Watkins grew up in Tennessee and turned pro in 2019. He came to Germany and in 7 seasons has played for 10 organizations. Currently he is playing for Pro B team Lok Bernau. There were Christmas´s where he could hop over the Atlantic, but also other times where he couldn´t. “I was able to go home to the States twice in my career and spend Christmas there, which was special! Almost felt like a mini off-season. Other years I’ve either spent the Holidays on my own or tried to get down to see my family in the Heidelberg area”, expressed Anthony Watkins. So where will the point guard spend Xmas this year? “I’ve got a beautiful lady in my life nowadays so we’ll definitely make sure she gets to see her family and then we’ll head down to see my grandmother and my mom, who flew in to catch some games and spend the holidays. We’re still planning right now and seeing how much time we will have off, but I’m looking forward to it”, stated Anthony Watkins. As a kid who grew up in the States, he has taken a liking to the pre Christmas activities in Germany. “It is always cool to see the Lebkuchen coming into stores in September. I always send a picture (or two) to tease my mom who has to wait until Christmas time. Here, Halloween is getting bigger, but there’s no Thanksgiving for example that comes after to bridge the gap, so Christmas vibes are more or less in full swing after Halloween (which is my birthday). The US does it big when the shift does happen, but that normally comes after Black Friday is done. In Germany it slowly ramps up I’d say”, stressed Anthony Watkins. He also has witnessed the Xmas markets. “I think they’re really cool! I don’t drink alcohol so the Glühwein is lost on me, but I’ll tap into a hot chocolate for sure and check out the different stands. Plus, as I mentioned, I have someone with me nowadays who would be quite upset with me if we didn’t go to any Christmas markets during the Holiday season”, smiled Anthony Watkins. He has seen Xmas from 2 sides, but could that moment ever happen where he would chose either the 24th or 25th to open the presents? “That idea of Christmas morning is a classic American image. But I enjoy both styles! It’ll be interesting to see what ideas we come up with when we decide to start a family, because I’d like to incorporate elements from both! It’s also funny to see/hear American rookies react to hearing that news for the first time. They never believe it”, stressed Anthony Watkins.

Adrian Breitlauch Knows That Recently They Didn´t Play To Their Potential But Now Want To Become The Best Possible Version of The Eisbären Bremerhaven In 2026.

pic credit: Dennis Green

Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 32 year old 193cm guard playing his 8th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP-1 (74.4%), 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.1%. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to eurobasket after the big win over Tuebingen.

Congrats on the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen in overtime. How big was the win after the tough loss against Kirchheim?

It was a very big win for us. We wanted to bounce back and show a positive reaction after our sub par performance in Kirchheim last week. With this win, we are now ready to face the top team of Phoenix Hagen with a bit more of confidence.

Before we get to the game, talk a little about Kirchheim. They are one of the hottest teams in the Pro A at the moment. What made it so difficult to play them?

They are an individually very talented team. But they also manage to play good and aggressive team defense. They are well coached too and deservedly one of the hottest teams in the league right now.

The first quarter was a real back and forth affair. It was dominated by the 2 point shot. How vital was it for Elijah Miller to get going early? He would be an instrumental part of the offensive attack.

Elijah´s performance was very important to us. He got our offense going early by scoring but also with sharing the ball. He is one of our key players for our offensive system.

Bremerhaven went on a big run at the start of the second quarter to lead 34-23. Jake Biss hit 2 back to back three´s. How vital is his efficient play?

We love having Jake on the team. He does many of the little things on offense and defense that you don´t necessarily find on the box score. Yesterday, his two big threes got us going on an important run securing us the lead at halftime.

Tuebingen came back and trailed only 43-37 at the break. Carlos Carter made some big shots in that stretch. He is the heart and soul of the team. Where would the team be without him?

Carlos is our energy guy. Offensively he always finds ways to get to the paint, which is important for us. Defensively he is one of our motors also with his energy. We wouldn´t be where we are right now without having Carlos Carter on our team.

Tuebingen went on a 11-0 run to begin the third quarter and bang they had the 48-45 lead. What did Bremerhaven get away from to allow that furious comeback by the guests?

Basketball is a game of runs. We weren´t ready on the defensive end and allowed Tübingen to get going. But it was important that we stayed together and kept going. Our body language still stayed positive in that time, which was big key in winning the game.

Hendrik Warner made a bucket late in the third quarter but Tuebingen still led 59-57 after 30 minutes. How tough was it watching the mis fortune of Warner on this day? It was one of those days where nothing fell for him except for that?

I was happy for him seeing him score that and one during a big moment in the game. But Hendrik Warner´s game is not only measured by his offensive output. His consistent efforts on defense put us in a position to win the game. He played a big part in our win yesterday.

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as lead changes occurred instantly. Tuebingen could of won the game on the last shot, but Felix Edwardsson missed. How do you remember that last shot?

We had a missed communication on defense that led to him having that open shot. But our weakside rotation covered up and allowed to make that shot a bit tougher. But honestly speaking, we also had some fortune there that he missed that shot and that the game went into overtime.

What did head coach Steve Esterkamp tell the team to do going into the OT?

That is staying between Steven Esterkamp and the team.

Bremerhaven dominated 23-8. What was key for getting the win? The love of spreading the ball was totally there?

Yes, we shared the ball very well. Jemarl Baker made some highlight plays and we managed to get to the free throw line consistently. I think that those were the key factors offensively to win the game.

Did you want it more than they did? Where was this game won? The stats were quite even.

Both teams played their heart out yesterday. It was a back and fourth game that could have ended either way. Big respect to Tübingen for a good performance. In the end, we had the luck on our side and managed to stay calm in overtime.

You had a solid 11/6/1/1 game. How happy were you with your game?

I was happy that I got to support the team. My goal was to be aggressive and lead with body language and effort to put us in a position to win. Those things were more important than the individual statistics.

Bremerhaven had a great start with 8-2 in the season. But then lost 4 of 5 games. Did the team feel a little pressure of starting so well?

This past month was a growth step for us. We didn´t play up to our potential. That´s why yesterdays win was very important to us. Now we focus on becoming the best possible version of Eisbären Bremerhaven in 2026.

It seemed like there were games where nothing worked on offense. Was that more on the team or did opponents scout you better?

Probably a mixture of both. But in the end, we need to focus on us. There we have more potential than what we showed these past weeks.

This season your averaging 5/2/1 stats. Your averaging 3 less minutes than last season. What is your biggest goal with your game this season? Are you giving anything new or extra to the team with your game that you haven´t done in the past?

Personally, I am just trying to do whatever it takes to win basketball games. It is not about the statistics to me. I am just trying to leave my heart out on the court and support the team to put us in a position to win.

Bremerhaven next battle Phoenix Hagen in 2026. What will be key to getting the win?

Our effort, body language and to keep going even if things don´t go our way. If we can bring this, then we are in a position to get an upset win against the top team of Hagen.

Do you have any new year´s resolutions?

Having a great year with the Eisbären Bremerhaven.

Thanks Adrian for the chat.

Toru Dean Will Never Forget Buying His Mom Something With His Own Money And Seeing That Smile Which Meant Everything To Him

A great question for any baller that is grinding overseas would be when they knew that they wanted to be a professional baller. I can imagine close to 100% wanted to be an NBA player. There is no accurate stat what percentage of NBA players dreamed of an NBA career when they were young, but it has to be somewhere around 90-95% according to AI. For overseas baller Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston), his route to the NBA is still a long one, but most likely for him always realistic. You simply have to be confident in one´s ability and that is something American professional players always have no matter what level they are at overseas. For Toru Dean who played at the NCAA 2 and NAIA level, he currently is playing in Germany for Regionalliga (4th division) team TSV Bargteheide Bees as they are in second place and he is destroying the competition averaging 19/5/7/3 stats. He already had dreams of playing professionally when he was a kid. Getting that perfect Christmas gift helped solidify his dream. “My favorite present as a kid was my first real pair of basketball shoes. That made me feel like my dreams mattered”, stressed Toru Dean. Xmas has a very special meaning to the overseas baller. “Family, gratitude, and slowing down. It’s about being together and remembering how far we’ve come”, said Toru Dean.

When your from New England like I am, you can´t imagine Xmas ever without there not being snow. The white has become less in Boston in the last 30 years with global warming, but how do kids in Florida experience Xmas without snow. I actually spent 3-4 Christmas´s as a kid in Florida so I remember playing touch football on the beach before opening presents the German way on Christmas Eve in the hotel. For Miami native Toru Dean, he didn´t see snow as a kid in Miami, but he still experienced Xmas in his special own way as family was a huge focus. “Christmas was simple but warm. Nothing fancy, but the house was full. Parents made sure we felt loved even if money was tight”, stressed Toru Dean. Christmas Eve was for him just like it was for any other American kid. A long night of waiting to open presents the next morning, but being able to be with family was something that he cherished. “ Christmas Eve for me was all about Food, music, and TV on in the background. We stayed up late”, remembered Toru Dean. Every kid can remember giving a present to a family member and remembering the feeling one got seeing the reaction of the person after getting the present. “My favorite present I gave was buying my mom something with my own money. Didn’t matter what it was—seeing her smile meant everything”, expressed Toru Dean.

If the ex Langston, OK (NAIA) guard will go home for Xmas is still unknown as he has a game only 2 days after opening presents on the 25th. He does know though if he had to spend Xmas in Germany, he could change the tradition with opening presents “ If I can, I’m going home. There’s no place like where you started. Yeah, I could adjust to opening presents at night. It’s different, but the meaning stays the same. ”, said Toru Dean. As a rookie overseas, it was the first time in his life that he could witness the holiday season in a different culture. He definitely has seen a difference to how it is overseas to back home in Florida. “ It feels calmer and more traditional. Less rushed, more about atmosphere. In the States it’s louder and more commercial”, commented Toru Dean. Community is a word that I have heard quite a bit this holiday season when asking American ballers about how they witnessed the classic German Xmas markets. “They’re special—lights, food, people just enjoying the moment. Feels like community”, stated Toru Dean. There are so many special Xmas foods in Germany especially at the Christmas markets, but for him there is nothing the same as what he grew up with. Tasty home made cooking from mama. “ My favorite Xmas food is Mac and cheese, baked chicken, and sweet potatoes. That’s home”, warned Toru Dean. So wherever he is this Xmas, what will be glaring from the TV and what will be loud to the ears? “My favorite movie is the The Polar Express and my favorite Song is This Christmas by Donny Hathaway”, expressed Toru Dean. Times were tough for him as a kid and it is only logical that he has a lot of compassion for the world and it´s problems. His wish is simple and would take care of everyone. “My Christmas wish for the world is less hate, more understanding. And people taking care of each other”, warned Toru Dean. With 2026 also just around the corner, he has strict New Years resolutions for himself. “I want to stay disciplined, help my family more, and keep pushing toward something bigger than myself”, stressed Toru Dean.

Chuck Harris Supplies 33 Points And The Killer Instinct In Overtime Powering Kirchheim Past The EPG Baskets Koblenz 105-98

Basketball fans in general in Koblenz couldn´t have wished for a more exciting game to close out 2025 than the EPG Baskets battling Kirchheim. Only 7 weeks ago, both teams had begun slowly and had a combined record of 3-9 on November second. However since then both teams had experienced a special rebirth as the southern team from Kirchheim belonged to the hottest teams in the league having won 7 of their last 8 games while Koblenz also have slowly found out of their funk having won 5 of their last 8 games and in between had ridden a potent 4 game winning streak. Kirchheim was perched in seventh place with a 8-6 record while Koblenz was fighting to get in the top 8 playoff places having a 7-7 record and were in 11th place. Both teams wanted to close out 2025 with a bang and it was a game that was dominated for the most part by the EPG Baskets Koblenz, however they couldn´t finish the job as the Bozic Estriche Knights fought back forcing overtime and then had the killer instinct winning 105-98. Kircheim were powered by rookie Chuck Harris (188-G-2001, college: SMU) who supplied big shots all game long and then had the killer instinct making a big three supplying the last punch for the win. “We started off slow, but at the half-time talk, we stressed staying positive. We knew we could still make something happen in the second half. We stuck together as a team and always believed that we could win. We stayed disciplined and played with a lot of energy”, stressed Bozic Estriche Knights guard Chuck Harris. For the EPG Baskets Koblenz, it was their second bitter loss in a row as they continue to have difficulty closing out games. “We simply weren´t consistent enough. We had some good phases during the game, but we allowed them to come back twice. When your up by 16 points, you just can´t give it away the way we did”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz center Marko Bacak.

Calvin Wishart at the FT line

Both clubs had massive difficulty finding an offensive rhythm in the first 3 minutes as both teams were stopped 5 times. Koblenz finally broke the ice as ex Schwenningen guard Badu Buck nailed a trey. Kirchheim also added a basket from unorthodox but efficient American player Nick Spinoso to trail 3-2. Both teams then scored with ease, but Koblenz kept the slim lead with a transition basket from ex G-League player DJ Jeffries who celebrated his 26th birthday while ex Rhondorf forward Tim Smith Jr hit a trey for the 10-8 advantage. Ex Koblenz guard Lucas Mayer stayed aggressive and made 2 buckets on the drive. However Koblenz then celebrated their first big run of the game scoring 13 points while the guests managed only 2 to lead 23-10. Koblenz got spirited play from their guards Garrett Hicks and Calvin Wishart who dropped three´s while their bigs also were efficient as ex Rhondorf German Alex Moeller made a lay in in traffic and ex Oldenburg center Marko Bacak made a pretty bank shot. Koblenz played nice team ball and defensively stayed disciplined and looked for the best shot on offense. Kirchheim got a clutch trey from young German Gian Aydinoglu and a jumper by Harris at the buzzer to trail 28-19 after 10 minutes. “Koblenz was playing a strong game. They had a good balance between offense and defense. The team also played nice inside out basketball and played aggressive on defense. They did have some problems with 1-1 defense”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz sport director Thomas Klein.

Jonas Niedermanner from outside

The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim fought back aggressively in the first minutes of the second quarter to dead lock the game, but Koblenz switched the lever 180 degrees and went on a giant run to get the big lead at the break. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim broke out on a rapid 9 -0 run to dead lock the game at 28-28. Koblenz fell into their typical lethargic play where they could find no rhythm and had mental lapses and were unconcentrated. Kirchheim received consecutive buckets from Spinoso, a trey by Harris and a lay in by Russell. Koblenz couldn´t play their fast game and were forced to the set play that hurt them. Koblenz head coach Stephan Dohrn was fuming on the sidelines and in lightening fashion subbed in 5 guys and that was the missing recipe. The 5 new guys sparked a 16-2 run that totally shocked Kirchheim as they trailed 44-30. The run was led by Calvin Wishart who was playing like a MVP player. He played more the playmaker up to that point, but in the run showed exactly what qualities he has. He continued to run the team adding 4 points and dazzling with no looks passes and made a steal. American Garrett Hicks added real energy with 2 three´s while Bacak made another basket and ex Hagen forward Devonte McCall added 3 points. Ee Texas State forward Tylan Pope then added his only basket of the game who had a cold shooting night at 1/6. But Koblenz continued to execute with ease as Moeller scored again inside as did ex Kirchheim forward Jonas Niedermanner for the 49-30 lead as the run had grown to 21-2. Kirchheim got free throws from Harris and a lay in by ex Virginia Commonwealth University guard Philipp Russell, but the Koblenz defense was consistent and aggressive making everything tough for the Knights. Koblenz had the overwhelming 58-39 advantage at half-time. “That was an incredible Koblenz run. Switching in 5 new guys really did the trick. We continued to defend very well, but we let up a bit at the end”, stated Thomas Klein. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 58% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim shot 45% from the field and 14% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Aenas Jung at the FT line

The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim made a swift comeback in the first minutes of the third quarter, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz staged another big run to get the big lead back again. Kirchheim began hot going on a 8-0 run to trail 58-47. Ex Butler (NCAA) guard Chuck Harris hit back to back three´s and Russell made a lay in. Kirchheim produced 4 stops as Koblenz didn´t play the team ball that made them so successful in the first half. Niedermanner finally stopped the run with a trey to lead 61-47. Kirchheim still had the momentum and continued to pour on the offense rolling out a 13-2 run to suddenly only trail 63-60. Russell was the man in the run as he produced 8 points including 2 three´s. Spinoso also added a nice old school left handed hook shot while German role player Nil Failenschmid made a lay in. Kirchheim´s on ball defense became more aggressive stifling Koblenz to bitter turnovers and Koblenz had too many mental lapses. But basketball is a game of runs and Koblenz reacted forcefully with a brutal 13-2 run to end the third quarter leading 76-62. Suddenly Koblenz was mentally sharp again and found back to their team game and controlled the boards one of their team goals for the game. In the run, Koblenz received 4 points from Smith who added a putback while Jeffries and Wishart made lay in´s and Hicks a trey. “We gave up easy rebounds at start, but then came back with more energy. Ín our run we ran again which led to easy baskets”, commented Marko Bacak. “We woke up in the third quarter at the start. However our bench wasn´t able to give us the needed energy in their run”, expressed Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim head coach Igor Perovic.

Nil Failenschmid from the corner

The EPG Baskets Koblenz managed their lead well in the first minutes of the fourth quarter, but the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim never gave up, but just kept chipping away and with time they slowly crept closer and forced overtime. The EPG Baskets Koblenz got some key three´s early as Jeffries and Wishart scored for the 82-66 advantage. However the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim just kept fighting raising their defensive intensity and rode on a lethal 19-2 run to take their first lead of the game at 86-85. In the run, the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim did a great job sharing the offensive love around as 5 different guys scored. Kirchheim got big support from Failenschmid with 5 points while ex easyCredit BBL player Nicolas Bretzel added 4 points. Harris added a floater and Russell a three pointer in the run rout. Kirchheim´s momentum heightened with every new bucket while the arena got quieter except for the little space where the Knights fans watched. Bacak gave Koblenz the lead back and a Smith Jr trey got the arena rocking again as Koblenz led 89-86. But the lead didn´t last long as Harris drained his next clutch three pointer to tie the game at 89-89. Harris then hit a free throw while Morgen got an offensive rebound and dished to Russell for the trey and the 93-90 lead. Bacak kept his nerves and forced overtime with a trey. “My shot felt good at first, but then I felt like it was going to far left, but luckily it went in”, said Marko Bacak. “We did a good job on defense and limiting them to 1 shot. We played free on offense and just made plays”, added Chuck Harris. “We had no structure. Our point guards were out. We didn´t know what to do”, stated Marko Bacak. In the overtime period, the EPG Baskets Koblenz had to play without point guards Wishart and Kovacevic who had fouled out and just couldn´t execute properly. Buck gave Koblenz their last lead of the game 98-96 with an off balance shot, but Kirchheim was ice cold and then closed out the game with 9-0 run. Morgan tied the game with free throws. Bretzel then made a steal which led to his free throws and the 100-98 Kirchheim lead. Niedermanner then missed which led to the Harris clutch trey and 103-98 advantage. “Anyone on the team can be top scorer each night. Tonight it was my turn. Guys kept me being positive and telling me to remain aggressive”, stated Chuck Harris. Harris and Morgan closed out the game with free throws. “We felt the momentum on our side. We dug in deep and didn´t want to lose”, said Chuck Harris. “They had momentum and smelled the win. We didn´t produce good looks”, said Marko Bacak. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim were led by Chuck Harris with 33 points and Philip Russell added 18 points while the EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Calvin Wishart and Garrett Hicks with 14 points a piece. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim shot 47% from the field and 38% from outside and had 46 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 44% from the field and 35% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

Tyseem Lyles Will Never Forget Selling Candy From The Last Xmas In Order To Buy Matching Necklaces For His Grandma And Ma For The Next Xmas

Ok so Tyseem Lyles (185-SG-1992, college: Mercy) didn´t decide to pull a lifer in Erfurt with the Basketball Lowen, but one could say that he has become a German lifer for his job of professional basketball player. His Pro B colleagues of Omari Knox and DJ Woodmore have played most of their career in Oberaching and Speyer while Lyles played in Erfurt for 4 years. All in all he is currently in his 8th professional season after having played in Hamburg and Karlsruhe as well and currently is calling south Germany home in Fellbach. It is no surprise that a lot of these American ballers overseas come from large families. Christmas´s in the States was always a very important part of their lives and that continues even when your overseas. The whole experience gives him special power. “Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year for many reasons, but my number one reason is gathering together with my family and loved ones. This seemed like the one time of the year no one had to work or do any kind of work. Everyone just being together. Christmas to me is love because it is cold, it is dark a lot earlier and on this day or leading to this day the warmth of togetherness from everyone gives you the bit of energy to you may need to push through the year or for guys like me make a stronger push through the second half of the season”, stressed Tyseem Lyles.

Especially in big familes, the whole Xmas experience is a massive production. For Tyseem his Christmas´s were always spent at his grand parents apartment in Brooklyn, New York. “Decorating the tree together a couple weeks before, decorating the big socks, watching a ton of Christmas movies and of course pretending not to see my mom carry in bags of toys. This was always the build up to Christmas Day as a kid”, remembered Tyseem Lyles. His grand ma made delicious food for all with sweet potato pie, baked macaroni, baked honey glazed ham, and stuffing. “It was always a time for good food, sharing gifts, playing games and telling stories. All of my cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents cramped in one 3 bedroom apartment for this holiday but for some reason it never felt crowded as a kid”, smiled Tyseem Lyles. However the most exciting time for him was Christmas Eve. “It was always extremely hard to go to sleep with all my cousins. All of us full of laughter during bed time, or even trying to “catch” Santa Claus eating the cookies but always being caught by our parents in the act. During the day we played board games or just went outside to play”, said Tyseem Lyles. It is no surprise that his favorite Xmas gift had to do with the game that he loves. “My favorite present I received as a kid was this game called NBA Streets for a game system called game cube. If I was not playing basketball outside I was watching or playing a game that had to do with the sport. I was also a big gamer as a kid so these were my two things. Basketball and games”, added Tyseem Lyles. Even if receiving a pretty gift is exciting, there is nothing better than giving something unique to your loved ones. “I have two favorite moments because I was really proud of both of these moments I remember saving a bunch of money for them. I bought my mom and my grandmother matching necklaces. I sold candy from the last Christmas to the next Christmas in high school just for this moment”, said Tyseem Lyles who lists Elf starring Will Ferrell, and Home Alone 2 as his favorite Xmas movie and his favorite Christmas song is Its beginning to look a lot like christmas or Feliz Navidad.

Even if guys playing in the Pro B have a 2 week break for Xmas, many don´t go home simply because they have established new family type relationships overseas and it isn´t any different with him. “I wish I was going back home for Christmas it’s been a while. But it is okay because it will still be a special day I am around love and great people. I will spend the Christmas with my girlfriend and her family. Also I will spend a great amount of time on FaceTime to talk with everyone from my family so I can see everyone and we can still share this day together”, expressed Tyseem Lyles. He has been overseas for almost a decade, but doesn´t see too much difference between what happens in the pre Xmas time in Germany and USA. “Christmas is a bit different for me these days only because I am older and currently living in another country. The only huge difference is the traditional foods for this day but are really good. For example the potato dumplings, red cabbage and with some I have had roasted duck. Knowing Santa does not exist is the only difference because the love is there we play games, and always have a great time”, commented Tyseem Lyles. A favotite place to hang out and mingle is at the famous German Xmas markets and it isn´t any different for him either. “My favorite Christmas market is the one in Hamburg. I experienced the christmas market in Stuttgart, Augsburg, and Erfurt so far”, said Tyseem Lyles. So how does he go about opening presents in Germany. Does he do it the German way or keep the American tradition? “I wish I had known this as a kid I would have been extremely happy because the amount of times I begged my mom to open them the night before. So as an adult I do it for that kid inside me, at least one present”, smiled Tyseem Lyles. With so much sadness going on in the world, he also has that special wish for the world. “My Christmas wish for the world is for everyone have all their needs and wants fulfilled without having to ever harm another person place or thing ever again”, warned Tyseem Lyles. 2026 is just around the corner and as always he wants to go into the new year remembering those very special people in his life. “My New Years Resolution is at the end of each day write at least 2 sentences or more about 5 things or people I am grateful for”, stressed Tyseem lyles.

Xavier Rathan-Mayes Powers FC Bayern Munich To Blow Out 97-69 Win Over The Skyliners In Pesic Return

It was supposed to be the happy homecoming of ex Skyliner head coach Gordon Herbert who helped the organization win 2 of their 3 club titles. However less than a week before the game, FC Bayern Munich and Herbert went separate ways. FC Bayern Munich didn´t have a positive Euroleague record so they had to make a change. They surprised the basketball world a little bringing in coaching legend Sveitslav Pesic for another tour of duty in Bavaria. Despite the negative Euroleague record, they did arrive in Frankfurt with the BBL´s best record of 9-1. The Skyliners snapped their 2 game losing streak with a convincing win against Science City Jena and now wanted to continue their winning streak with a major upset. Isaiah Swope who pulled a Jordan with 11 consecutive points in crunch-time to secure the win now could battle against ex NBA guys like Xavier Rathan-Mayes (191-G-1994, college: FSU) and Wenyen Gabriel. On a cold post Xmas evening, the Skyliners were able to keep up with Euroleague team FC Bayern Munich for a quarter, but in the second quarter the current easyCredit BBL champion team took control of the game and never looked back winning 97-69. “We gave up way too many second chance points and offensive rebounds. We had some good defensive segments with 1-1 defense, but overall we couldn´t match their physicality”, stressed Skyliner Ryan Hawkins. FC Bayern Munich found their offense rhythm in the second quarter and played aggressive defense for 40 minutes stifling the Skyliners and not allowing them to find any kind of sound rhythm. “We had a game plan and that was too play good defense and play with pace. Coach Pesic wants us to be great on defense and to score within the first 6 seconds. We got on transition and had a good flow on offense. On defense our biggest strength was ball pressure and disrupting their offense and getting into the passing lanes”, stressed FC Bayern Munich guard Xavier Rathan-Mayes.

Logan Johnson at the FT line

The Skyliners continued to be without their best scorer and rebounder Jaedon LeDee while FC Bayern Munich was without ex NBA player Spencer Dinwiddie. The first few minutes was a real battle between both teams that consisted of less scoring and aggressive defense. Ex Creighton forward Ryan Hawkins came up big with 2 steals which led to a Jacob Knauf trey and Christmas free throw while FC Bayern Munich attacked the rim and got big dunks from world champion Andreas Obst and Serbian Vladimir Lucic as Munich led 6-5. However Frankfurt then had a real potent stretch going on a 10-2 run to lead 15-8. In the run, Frankfurt was aggressive getting inside getting a lay in from ex Virginia Tech guard Nahiem Alleyne and a dunk from 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke while ex Vechta guard Radi Caisin hit a triple. FC Bayern Munich were slow to finding a rhythm, but their bench came up big led by 2 time NCAA champion with UConn Niels Giffey who hit three three´s while ex Memphis Grizzlie Xavier Rathan-Mayes was aggressive getting to the free throw line 3 times and scoring 5 points. FC Bayern Munich had punched back with a 14-2 run to lead 22-19 after 10 minutes. That was most of the damage that Giffey did in the game scoring wise which helped his team secure the momentum going into the second quarter. He would make 1 more trey later in the second half. “We got easy stuff on offense and had an offensive flow and took good care of the ball. Basketball is a game of runs and they hit us for a run keeping the game close”, stressed Ryan Hawkins. FC Bayern Munich shot 42% from the field and 33% from outside and had 15 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 22% from the field and had 7 rebounds and 1 turnover.

Vladimir Lucic from outside

FC Bayern Munich took control of the game in the second quarter going on a big run and would never look back. FC Bayern Munich took care of business right away punching the Skyliners in the face with a 15-2 run to extend their lead to 37-21. Munich´s aggressive on ball pressure was too much for them as turnovers grew in volume for Frankfurt. On offense good team basketball coupled with extreme good 1-1 players led to a dominance on offense. EX Ulm forward Justinian Jessup began with 5 straight points as his high energy really carried the team. The giant FC Bayern offensive arsenal kept executing as Obst added 5 points as did ex Stanford forward Oscar da Silva as the team´s inside out game was working to perfection. Frankfurt was always a step to slow. American Isaiah Swope stopped the Munich run with a trey to trail 37-24. FC Bayern´s consistent aggressive defense led to rapid transition baskets from ex Boston Celtic Wenyen Gabriel and German world champion Justus Hollatz and the 41-24 Munich lead. The Skyliners had scarce offensive execution as Caisin made a lay in while Swope added 5 points. The ex Indiana State (NCAA) guard Swope was the only real bright spot for the Skyliners as his excellent 1-1 play was always good for a ooh and a ahh as he is a real highlight reel. First he nailed a trey in Gabriel´s face and then made a nifty lay in after slipping, got up and slid to the hoop. “He shows plays like that in practice. It is fun playing with him. He never gives up, but just keeps playing even if he slips. He gets our offense going”, said Ryan Hawkins. FC Bayern Munich added Gabriel free throws and a Rathan-Mayes lay up to lead 48-31 at the break. “Key for taking control of the game was getting stops and playing with pace. We had rim runners that opened up lanes. That helped me and the other guards and also got paint touches”, said Xavier Rathan-Mayes. “We gave up way too many offensive rebounds. They didn´t let us run our offense”, stated Ryan Hawkins. FC Bayern Munich shot 53% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 37% from the field and 27% from the three point line and had 10 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Isaiah Swope from the corner

The third quarter was the Skyliners strongest quarter as they won it 19-18, but still couldn´t get over the hump as they trailed by 16 points after 30 minutes. The Skyliners came focused out of the locker room bursting out on a 5-0 run as ex G-League player Logan Johnson connected on free throws and Alleyne dropped a trey to trail 48-36. But that didn´t faze FC Bayern Munich as they punched back with a 7-0 run to lead 55-36. In the run, it was Andreas Obst supplying the needed support with his sniper shooting with a 20 footer and trey while Gabriel made a pretty alley-op dunk off the perfect feed from Hollatz. “Obst is a great player. We tried to run him off the line as best we could. He just spreads the floor so well”, stated Ryan Hawkins. Munich continued to control the game as Vladimir Lucic also displayed some production with a trey while ex Alba Berlin center David McCormack made a alley-op tip in off the great feed from Rathan-Mayes for the 63-41. Fc Bayern Munich couldn´t keep the consistency in the last minutes as they let up a bit as the Skyliners finished the quarter with a 9-3 run to trail only 66-50. In the run, the Skyliners let it rain three´s as Isaiah Swope drilled home 2 three´s as he is slowly showing that he can hit from any place in his living room while Hawkins also scored. “We played well in the last 2 minutes. We wanted to get to 10 points and then see what can happen”, stressed Ryan Hawkins. “Basketball is a game of runs. We knew that they weren´t going to give up”, stressed Xavier Rathan-Mayes.

Andi Obst from downtown

FC Bayern Munich weren´t about to let up in the fourth quarter, but instead found some extra energy and exploded for 31 points and easily sealing up the win. FC Bayern Munich sealed up the win in the first few minutes and went on a 12-0 run to lead 78-50 as the game now had become a major blow out. In the run, FC Bayern Munich shared the love around as they played beautiful team basketball. Scoring point guard Rathan-Mayes added 4 points, Giffey dropped his 4th trey of the game, Da Silva made a dunk and Jessup another trey. At the 7,08 minute mark, the first fans began to exit the arena. Frankfurt finally stopped the run with a Will Christmas off balance shot and began to execute better as Caisin hit a few three´s, but couldn´t make any ground as the guests really had an offensive rhythm now as Rathan-Mayes began to heat up with 7 points while even the 12th man 2025 NBBL champion Nikolas Sermpezis did his job nailing a trey from the corner for the unstoppable 91-64 FC Bayern Munich advantage. Caisin continued to have the hot hand connecting on another trey, but FC Bayern Munich closed out the game with pure Oscar da Silva dominance as he scored the team´s last 3 buckets. The only thing missing from it being a perfect FC Bayern Munich night was reaching the 100 points. “We wanted to continue to add pressure and not step off the gas pedal. We just continued to paly our game and do what got us here. We did a good job with 26 team assists”, commented Xavier Rathan-Mayes. “We gave up to many easy points. We couldn´t get on transition and had to much set offense”, added Ryan Hawkins. FC Bayern Munich had 5 guys scoring in double figures and were led by Xavier Rathan-Mayes with 19 points. Niels Giffey added 15 points and Andreas Obst 14 points while the Skyliners were led by Isaiah Swope with 18 points while Radii Caisin had 14 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 58% from the field and 50% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Skyliners shot 40% from the field and 36% from outside and had 21 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Chicken Dressing With Cranberry Sauce From Momma Is Something Urald King Can Only Crave For When He Is Overseas For Xmas

When you’re an American baller playing overseas in lower leagues, there is one fringe benefit that one has over the Christmas holidays over guys playing in first and second divisions. Ok so there is a big difference in the pay, but when your grinding month for month for a monthly check of about 1000-1,500 USD, you can at least be home for the Xmas holidays. But when your playing in a top league like Urald King (198-F-1990, college: SE Oklahoma) is of the Romerstrom Gladiators in the easyCredit BBL in Germany,you don’t have the luxury of going home. You get to experience a totally different kind of festive holiday overseas. King is a 35 year old player who is your classic basketball globe trotter. He is currently in his 10th pro season that has taken him to countries like Iceland, France, Finland, Austria, Israel and Denmark. He has seen many different cultures and had the pleasure of celebrating 7 Christmas´s overseas with an eight happening this year in Trier. ““Christmas means to me the birth of Jesus and the celebration of religion and a time for family to come together and appreciate one another”, expressed Urald King.

Before he came overseas, he celebrated Christmas back home in West Monroe. Louisiana. If there will be a white Christmas in Trier this season is unlikely, but more likely than it ever will be happening in Louisiana. His Xmas celebration was always unique back home when he was growing up. “Christmas for me was always special. We didn’t have a white Christmas because the weather was always warm. My family would meet at my grandma’s house. I especially loved it because we had a big family and I had tons of cousins to play with”, said Urald King. One of the great moments for Americans is Christmas Eve. It is a moment for all to be together and be thankful for all that they have before the big stress of opening presents in the morning. Adults may really cherish the evening while kids are counting the minutes to morning. “Christmas Eve for my family meant just being around my mom and older brother and getting to open one present the night before Christmas”, stated Urald King. Presents play a big role especially for kids. But when Urald was a kid, he not only remembered getting incredible presents, but also giving a special gift to his mom. “My favorite present would have to be between a few things; a basketball goal, wrestling action figures, and Pokémon cards. I have given a lot of gifts over the years but if I had to say one that I gave a family member, it would be a ring I bought my mom. What’s so special about the ring is it has her, my brother, his daughter (my niece), my daughter, and my birth stones all in one ring”, commented Urald King.

This is actually his second season in Germany. He is one of those rare players that went from a lower league to top leagues in Europe. He began his overseas grind in 2015 with the TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-2.Regionalliga). He had experienced the Xmas build up 10 years ago and now did it again in the beautiful Trier city that sits in a valley on the Mosel river. One of the coolest things to witness are the eccentric Christmas markets that can be seen in so many different places in Germany. “My experience with the pre Christmas in Germany has been going to the Christmas market here in Trier and Cologne and I love them. I’m looking forward to drinking some warm wine when we have some off days. The difference between Christmas in Germany and The States is we don’t have Christmas markets (at least that I know of). I didn’t get one this year but receiving an Advent calendar was interesting”, said Urald King. A big difference to Xmas in Germany and the States is when you open the presents. I remember annoying all my classmates in the States back in the day saying as a German that we opened presents on Xmas Eve and could go to sleep knowing what the presents were. “In America we share a similar experience, we open a gift at night however we focusing on waking up extremely early the next morning to open gifts”, added Urald King.

There are so many great aspects to Christmas besides the presents and being thankful for so much, but one has to satisfy their appetite somehow. A big negative aspect for Americans overseas is not having that home cooking from their family. “My favorite Christmas food is called “Chicken dressing” with cranberry sauce (can’t forget the cranberry sauce). My Grandmother and my ma make the best kind”, warned Urald King. Another big aspect to Xmas is music and movies. Music is probably even bigger simply because you hear the Xmas music all over the place from stores, to schools to Churches and of course Xmas markets. When it comes to music and movies, he has quite a few favorites. “I’d have to say some of my favs are “chestnuts roasting on an open fire”, “ Rudolph the red nose reindeer”, “all I want for Christmas”, “The Christmas”, and “Silent Night”. However I know I’m missing a lot, there’s so many good songs. Again, I can’t just pick one Christmas movie. Top 3 would be Home Alone (the first one), A Christmas Story, Friday After Next”, stated Urald King. But there is also that serious question during the Xmas period. Urald King and millions of people are all blessed to have food and presents on the table, but then again there are millions of others out there who are suffering. Wouldn´t be great if there could just be less suffering in the world? “My Christmas gift for the world would be, I know this sounds cliché but I would be world peace or for world hunger to end. After Xmas, there is only a week until 2026 comes upon us. Does he have any New Years resolution? “My New Years Resolution has been the same for the last 10+ years and that’s to keep growing and becoming a better version of myself”, warned Urald King.