Deandre Lansdowne is a 30 year old 187cm guard from Albuquerque, Mexico that completed his second season in the easyCRedit BBL and second with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. In his first season he averaged 14.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.3apg, Steals-3 (1.7spg), FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 72.8% and last season upped his stats averaging 18,6ppg,3,4rpg and 3,6apg. In 2016-2017 he played with the Hamburg Towers averaging 12,3ppg, 5,0rpg and 2,3apg. He started his career in Germany in 2015-2016 in the Pro B where he played with Hertener Loewen Basketball (Germany-Pro B) playing 27 games: Score-2 (22.9ppg), 8.1rpg, 3.6apg, Steals-5 (2.6spg), FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 66.5%. He played college ball at Fort Lewis (NCAA2) and as a senior played 32 games averaging 15.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 50.7%. He then gained his first professional experience with Pioneros de Delicias (Mexico-Chihuahua Vive) before continuing career in Germany. He spoke to German Hoops after the sweep loss against FC Bayern Munich.

Deandre thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is your summer going?

I am in Phoenix right now, just celebrating my 30th birthday with some friends. Summer is going great so far. Recharging the batters before the off-season will start. 

What was/is the first eatery that you will visit after setting foot back in the states again?

The first was Dion’s Pizza, and then Chic-Oil-a 

Congrats on your amazing and inspiring season 2 with the Baskets Lowen Braunschweig. If you could sum the the team’s and your season up in 2 sentences how would you describe it?

Amazing, and full of great moments and growth. It was proof with a lot of hard work and determination anything is possible. 

What kind of experience was it battling FC Bayern Munich in the playoffs. You played only in two games and only 6 minutes in game two. How tough was going out like this after a great regular season?

Its always a great experience, that’s high level European basketball. It was very tough, I was looking forward to a great battle. My team went to war, and I couldn’t join them, in my first playoffs, just a bummer. 

How proud are you of the team giving a great effort in game three and really making life tough for FC Bayern Munich? Do you feel like the guys grew a bit in that last season game?

I was extremely proud. But I always knew how good each and one of my teammates were, and they showed that. I think they did tremendously. 

Let’s talk about the season. After a tough start, the team then won 9 of 10 games including beating Alba Berlin. Were the Basketball Lowen at their best in this phase?

We were at our best, yes. I think defensively we were really locked in. We were able to have great balance between getting the ball inside to Scott and shooting from outside. Making our 3s really made that strategy easy to execute. 

It has been many months ago, but how do you remember the amazing 83-79 win over Alba Berlin most? Was this one of the biggest wins in your professional career?

It was very good for our team, but it felt it meant even more to the fans and the city of Braunschweig. We always believed we were a tough team to beat especially at home. I’ve never ranked wins, it was just another mark in the win column for us/me. 

Then the team went 6-11 as there was fear of not reaching the playoffs. Despite putting up consistent stats, how did this down period effect you mentally as a playmaker? Knowing you were putting up good stats, but the team wasn’t winning?

Never changed, kept working, but looked a bit more at film to see maybe what was consistently not working, and how I can hopefully get my teammates better shots. I never focus (ed) on individual stats, especially if the team is losing, that means you could be doing something slightly wrong that could be affecting the team as a whole. 

On the last weekend, you guys stepped it up beating Frankfurt and Bayreuth. What do you believe was key for the club being able to really erase everything and just concentrate and win 2 dam games that surely many didn’t expect would happen?

I actually think we were expected to win because we were one of the best teams all year at home, and we were a higher ranked team, so I’m not sure why there was much of a doubt in our locker room. But I think we dug a little deeper and matched both teams physicality and energy throughout the whole game. 

How much of a joy was it playing with coaches Frank Menz and Steven Clauss. Please describe how each guy helped you in some way to help your game progress in the two years?

Frank gave me this opportunity! He was one of few who believed in me. Frank really made me confident and comfortable from day one. He’s a more defensive minded coach, so he helped me just with some defensive things that I would need to be a great two-way shooting guard that I want to be. Steve was much different from Frank, he was helping me offensively and we could always go over things seen in film to make things easier or needed fixing. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. You played two years with center Scott Eatherton. How did you see his development from your first day in 2017 to the last game in 2019?

Huge! He is a phenomenal player, and made ALL of us look good! I also think with the new coach (Strobl ) you’ll see even more improvement. 

It wasn’t an easy season for Brayon Blake, but he did have his moments. What did you learn to appreciate about his game and what kind of advice did you give him when he was having down periods?

BJ is one of a kind. I thought it was an up and down season for him, but you also must consider he’s a rookie playing on the wing. His potential is huge! I always told him to not over stress about things, and to not get to high when things are good. He’s a great player, whose emotions drive him. When he can control when to use the different emotions, when he needs them, he’ll be a nightmare. 

An important role player was Shaquille Hines. How did you see his development and is he ready to make the next step forward next season?

Huge development, he is the perfect team ‘glue guy’. He did everything! And most games he was undersized. He battled on the boards, he made the shots, he ran the floor, and he had quite a few monster blocks. He never demanded anything, and was a great role player, and I think can fit anywhere. 

German Christian Sengfelder had a very strong rookie season and really broke out in the playoffs against FC Bayern Munich. What did you see in his game that shows that his NCAA career really helped in his development in the States to make him a very solid 4 man in the BBL?

In my opinion national player of the year! I never watched him coming from college, or his role in the tram. But just from his development in Braunschweig his progress was huge, and it’s shows because of his hard work, dedication and willingness to just grow as a player. He was the first one there everyday, working on every part of his game. And it showed, especially in the playoffs, that he has a great inside and outside game, and he’s only going to get better! That’s the scary part! 

Let’s talk about your game. You improved your scoring from last season averaging 18,6ppg, 3,4rpg and 3,6apg. How content were you with your season?

I’m content because we succeed my main goal: lead this team to the playoffs. Individually it was okay, still lots I want to work on and be better at. I don’t look at my stats, I look at how I can help a team win and how consistent I can be. 

You continue to work hard every day to be the best that you can. When you look back at your first season to Braunschweig to this, what do you feel were the main reasons for you being an even more explosive scorer despite playing one less minute?
The coaches put me in the position, had the confidence to run an offense partly around me, and then my teammates executing (great screens, passes, play calls) , they all made it easier for me to be a threat offensively. 

A big reason for your success is that you stay consistent with your work after bad, good and great games. How do you mentally stay strong and not get into bad habits and reflect too much after a great game and not get into bad habits but just stay focused with your daily work?

Good game: never be shocked at doing what you ask, want & work for every day. Bad games: it’s part of the game, doesn’t mean you’re taking steps backwards. Through all times: continue to still work on your game, watch film to understand more about your game, give 100% on the court, and always be a fun, positive, team first teammate. 

You also improved your scoring, but if you look back over all the games you played and hard work you put in, how do you feel did your game overall grow in your second BBL season?

It grew a lot. I really narrowed down on details and had to find other ways to score, or what was uncomfortable in my first season. I think I handled the physically and defensive minded players much better. Also I think I was a better pick and roll passer from last season.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the BBL this season?

Defensively James from Bonn/Ulm & Jason Clark from Frankfurt. Offensively m, Bartolo is DOY for a reason. 

After two seasons in Braunschweig, you now deserve a pay raise. You could really play anywhere in the BBL. Teams I could imagine you with are teams like Ulm, Ludwigsburg and Bonn, but even in Frankfurt. I also feel you could play in other countries in top leagues. If you had a preference where would you like to play?

ANYWHERE! I’m open to any country, any team. My dream is Euroleague, so I hope it’s another step closer to that.

On what aspects of your game will you be working on most this off season with your trainers?
Pick and roll reads, Ball handling, and my shot ( floater, pull up 2s & 3s). I really want to transition into an ideal combo guard. 

A lot of people have been having the audacity of saying that Kawhi Leonard is the best player in the world. How do you see that debate?

I have him 3rd. What he’s doing is amazing, but it’s nothing we haven’t seen from Lebron James a few times. And he’s just not on the level Kevin Durant is. But he’s putting his name in the argument which is just the beginning. 

Some have been saying that Steph Curry is better than Allen Iverson was. Can one really compare these two players in a fair way?

Two game changing guards. I remember as a kid I wanted to be AI, I think most kids did. And now all the kids want to be Curry. I think they both are generation changing players. 

What was the last movie that you saw?
X-Men: The Dark Phoenix
Thanks Deander for the chat

It´s mid-June in Germany with beautiful weather all around and with German football taking a little break before the seasons kicks up in August, the professional German basketball leagues are on vacation while the clubs are seeking the right pieces for the new rosters for the upcoming season. But some players aren´t on vacation yet, but sweating and training hard for various international competitions this summer. The German men´s national team will be battling in the World Cup while the German U-20 team will be facing interesting competition at the European championships in Tel Aviv. Team Germany is preparing for a 4 nations tournament in preparation for the Euro championships with an 18 man roster which will be trimmed down to 12 for the European championships.  The team is having breakfast together at Kienbaum in Berlin where they are preparing for the European championships and as guys walk in for their first meal of the day, one could witness an array of massive talent like 2017 NBBL champion Nelson Weidemann of FC Bayern Munich, rising Vechta star Philipp Herkenhoff who had a massive BBL playoff series against Bamberg, 2019 NBBL title and MVP winner Bruno Vrcic and top point guard Bjarne Kraushaar. But wait a minute another guy walks in and it looks like Richard Freudenberg. But it isn´t the 2015 NBBL MVP of the Fraport Skyliners as he would tower over most with his 205cm, but this young man is only 198cm, but has the blond hair and has that similar parting of the hair like the ex St Johns(NCAA) forward Freudenberg. The guy sure looks German with so fine features and actually is, but he actually grew up in the United States in Lincoln, Nebraska. His name is Sam Griesel and out of nowhere was selected to join the U-20 national team in training camp with the opportunity to make the final 12 man roster for the 2019 U-20 European championships in Israel. His opportunity to play for the German U-20 national team didn´t come overnight, but was a process that took about two years. “Two years ago when I started to get recruited from colleges, the coaches found out that my dad was German. Coaches told me that it would be to my advantage to get a German passport which could make my chances of playing overseas easier. Then my Italian trainer who had a 10 year professional basketball career in Europe knew a German agent and he got in contact with the German basketball federation. They then watched me play in the NCAA tournament and now I´m here”, stressed Sam Griesel. He is that Nebraska kid with that German connection.

                He is a 19 year old 198cm small forward that was born and bred in Lincoln, Nebraska. You would think that a town like Lincoln is small enough to make special basketball connections, but so far the kid hasn´t met retired player Andrew Drevo who hails from the same town and had a long career overseas with a long tenure in Germany. So how does a country kid from Nebraska have that German connection? Simple his dad is German and his mom is American. His dad came over to the States when he was 25 and met his mother and made Sam. The 19 year old didn´t find his love for basketball right away, but like so many young kids in the States was fascinated by soccer a sport that is so loved and popular among the young. But when he was around 11 or 12 years old, his attention shifted to basketball. He first got noticed in high school when he played for Lincoln East High School. But that didn´t happen right away, but moreover when his junior season came around. “I didn´t think that I would go anywhere with basketball before my junior season. But then I grew five inches and had my breakout year as a junior”, stressed Sam Griesel. In his senior year, he made another step as he led his team to a record 24 wins and a trip to the Class A state tournament. In his final season he averaged 17,1ppg, 6,1rpg,2,3apg and 1,6spg. He earned first team in Super State honors and finished as the sixth all-time scorer in school history. His next step was making the right choice for college. During his senior year in high school, he had committed early to South Dakota, but then decided not to go after head coach Craig Smith left for Utah State. The American had already visited North Dakota State and then decided to go there. When looking back, he never regretted making that decision. “I loved North Dakota State from the first visit. I really like the environment there and I´m looking forward to this season. We should be really good again”, added Sam Griesel.

            One of the fun things I like to do is when I´m covering some player is too see what former players at that school have played in Germany. North Dakota State have produced some great talent over the years. Actually the list isn´t long as only three players have done so. The first was Michael Tveidt who played at NDSU from 2006-2011 winning the Summit Title in 2009 played for Phoenix Hagen. The second and most known player was Taylor Braun who played at NDSU from 2009-2014 winning the Summit League title in 2014 played for ratiopharm Ulm and the last and most recent was Dexter Werner who played at NDSU from 2012-2017 winning the Summit League title in 2014 and 2015 played his rookie season with Lok Bernau. Griesel talks fondly about Taylor Braun as the achievements that he did there is common knowledge. “He is a role model for me. Coach brought him up to see us many times. I also have seen Dexter around campus. I look up to these guys as they embody what NDSU is all about. They show that it is possible for guys from a mid major school to have success overseas”, said Sam Griesel. In his freshman season he played 24 games averaging 6.1ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 58.1%. But despite finishing the season strong, it didn´t start off so well. He got injured after four games and sat out two and a half months missing 10 games. When he came back, he became the starter after the second game back. “As I started games, my confidence really grew. I got better used to the pace and let things come to me. I had my best game of the season in the conference semi-finals against W Illinois scoring 20 points”, expressed Sam Griesel. NDSU then proceeded to beat Omaha 73-63 and win the Summit League tournament. “I will never forget the whole experience and then having the chance to play in the NCAA tournament. I always had dreamed of playing in March Madness”, said Sam Griesel. After beating North Carolina Central 78-74 and contributing 10 points and 6 boards in 28 minutes in the first round, then it was time for the big showdown against powerhouse school Duke who were sporting two of the best players last season with Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett and a legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski the winningest coach of all-time in division one. The game was held in Colonial Life Arena in South Carolina and had 18,000 crazy fans as bedlam was on the menu. Oh and a little side note the date was March 22^nd, the 19^th birthday of Sam. “It was a cool birthday present being able to play Duke. Williamson and Barrett are legit. Williamson is a freak of nature with his size. Barrett is a skilled, big physical guard. They will do well in the NBA and have special careers. Playing Duke was a cool experience and shaking coach K´s hand was very special”, added Sam Griesel.  He finished with 4 points and 3 rebounds in 24 minutes in his last NCAA game losing to Duke 85-62.

            He still will have three more years to continue to develop his game at NDSU. When he was growing up and starting to get interested more for basketball, he started looking for those role models and players he could study. His favorite player was Derrick Rose and even when the ex Chicago Bull was having problems, he continued to look up to him. He compares his game to a Nicholas Batum of France and a Paul George. Especially with the ex Indiana Pacer George he sees many similarities especially with the frame and height. Two of his biggest strengths on the court is keeping his teammates involved and annoying opponents on defense, but he has other assets in his game as well. “My versatility is important. I can play the positions 1-4. I thought I did a good job as a freshman attacking the rim and being a slasher on the wing”, stated Sam Griesel. Making the transition from high school to the NCAA rank isn´t an easy one especially the crazy athleticism that is abundant. His shot is also something that is still a work in progress as he shot only 37% from the field and 25% from outside as a freshman. When his shot wasn´t falling, he then used his driving to the rim which continued to up his confidence when it wasn´t raining from the parking lot. It will be interesting to see if his offensive role will increase more in his sophomore campaign.

            Back to German soil. That is where Sam Griesel is at the moment. Actually in Berlin at Kienbaum where many of the German national basketball teams get ready before commencing big tournaments. This is his sixth time in Germany and his grand parents from his father´s side still live there. It surely wasn´t easy going to a foreign country and getting to know many new hungry German basketball players, but he took it in stride. “I came to Germany having no idea what to expect. I came here with an open mind and went with the flow”, added Sam Griesel. The transition from the NCAA game to the European game has been a test and he has been impressed with the skill level of his German teammates. “The game is faster here than in college. The guys are more physical here due to being able to play against grown men. I feel that I have been able to incorporate the physicality and speed into my game. I have been able to play fast and still be under control. My teammates are a lot better skill wise than I thought. I always thought that Germany was a soccer country, but that is a stereotype. I really have been impressed by how good the players are”, added Sam Griesel. He has been lucky that the pace of the game has fit his style. He really has been able to profit from playing fast, because he enjoys getting out on transition. With so much talent around him, it hasn´t been difficult to have certain players standout. “I have been impressed with my roommate Nils Hassfuerter. He has played for many of the German youth national teams and has helped me a lot with translating things. I also have been impressed with Isaiah Ihnen. He has a lot of potential. It will be interesting to see what he can do further down the road”, said Sam Griesel.

            This weekend he will be able to showcase his talent at a tournament in Italy facing off against Greece, Slovenia and Italy where he will see close up how they operate. 18 players were supposed to have been at the workouts in Kienbaum, but only 14 were there. A few may follow as Joshua Obiesie was in the states at NBA workouts as he had good chances of being drafted, but in the end wasn´t selected. Also Alba Berlin guard Jonas Mattisek is expected to arrive soon. Only 12 players will make the trip to Tel Aviv for the European Championships. It would be something if he could make the 12 man roster and continue his stay in Europe and continue to gather added useful experience on the court and seeing new cultures. He is optimistic about his chances of making the final roster. “I feel confident about my chances. I feel like I have shown what I can do on the offensive and defensive ends of the court. I´m taking this experience day by day and grinding it out and playing as hard as I can”, warned Sam Griesel. He has stiff competition from a few guys like Bruno Vrcic, Isaiah Ihnen and Quirin Emanga with whom he has been working out the most with in the last week. His game in his freshman year was helped by head coach David Richman at NDSU and in the last week, he has had to take orders from German coach Alan Ibrahimagic and has needed no real adjustment period as they seem to be similar in what they do. “Both make their jokes, but can also get intense on the court yelling and having that competitive spirit. Both told me to trust my game and play with confidence. That is the best version of yourself”, added Sam Griesel. It will be interesting to see how the American with the German passport continues to faire with the German U-20 national team and most importantly will he make the 12 man roster. “I want to get the most of this experience meeting new people and having fun. But at the same time competing at a high level and playing hard”, warned Sam Griesel. Even if he doesn´t make the 12 man roster, he still won. He will come home and still be that Nebraska kid with the German connection and be able to tell his NDSU teammates some amazing stories that will last a life time.

 is a 28 year old 211cm center from Fredricksburg, Virginia that also ahs the German citizenship. He played two years at Palm Beach CC (JUCO) and then finished at Oregon (NCAA) where he played a total of 66 games and helped the team reach the Sweet 16 in 2014. He turned professional in 2014 and played his first three pro seasons in Germany for the MLP Academics and the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Two seasons ago he played in the Czech Republic and France. Last season he split time with Dzukija Alytus (Lithuania-LKL) playing 12 games averaging 7.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 50.7%, FT: 46.7%, in Dec.’18 moved to Chemidor Tehran (Iran-Superleague) playing 4 games averaging 9.0ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 50.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Waverly thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been so far? 

Hey summer has been good working out and spending time with family. 

You have been away from playing in Germany for two years having gathered further experience in the Czech Republic, France, Lithuania and Iran. Has time flown by in this time and have you missed the German culture and easyCredit BBL?

Yea playing in Germany was a good experience especially because I have family who still lives in the Frankfurt area it’s always good to be close to family.

I can imagine that you would love to return to Germany to the BBL should the right situation arise. You played a very solid second season with Bremerhaven and then left. Did you feel then it was time for a change to get more experience and improve your game so you could return back to the BBL possibly now?

Yes I would consider coming back to the BBL if it was the right situation definitely and I wanted to see something different. 

Let’s talk about last season. For the second season in a row you split time with two teams. Sometimes the constant switching of teams gives future teams the idea that the player was a problem while other teams think that that player is a desired player because he can always get jobs. How challenging were the last two seasons in terms of so much moving around and always getting adjusted to a new situation? 

It wasn’t difficult at all. I can adjust to any situation. Also I didn’t have any problems with my first team this year. It was good experience playing in the LKL against teams like Zalgris but I had a lucrative offer in Iran so that was also a good experience. 

You began last season with Dzukija Alytus (Lithuania-LKL) playing 12 games averaging 7.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 50.7%, FT: 46.7%. What kind of experience was it playing there and what example can you give where you clearly noticed just how popular basketball is in that country?

Basketball is very serious in Lithuania a lot of tough practices a lot of film really good fans it was a short but also good opportunity.

You had a very strong game against top Euroleague team Zalgiris netting 13 points and getting 5 rebounds and against ex NBA players like Brandon Davies, Nate Wolters and top French player Leo Westermann. How vital are performances like this against top competition for your confidence on days where nothing is going right?

I always have confidence so it wasn’t overly happy because that’s why you play basketball is to compete and for me stats don’t matter. It’s about getting the win and doing anything the coach wants and expects from you.

You then had a very short stay with Chemidor Tehran (Iran-Superleague) playing 4WABA games averaging 9.0ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 50.0%. Could you pick up anything from the culture and how was it for a Westerner like you to live in Iran?

I actually played the whole season in Iran. The waba tourment was a fiba tournament for the top west Asian teams and we won the championship so that was good. 

You had one crazy lopsided win in Iran 123-49. With all the basketball you have seen in your life, is this a game that you will remember forever? Do you ever remember winning by so many points in your career? 

Yea that was blowout sometimes that’s how it goes.

You finished the 2017-2018 season with Hermine Nantes Atlantique (France-ProB) playing 22 games averaging10.4ppg, Reb-3 (7.7rpg), Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.0%. You finished the season strong in France. What kind of experience was it playing here and what was your season highlight? Possibly your 30 point explosion against Quimper?

France was really nice. Nantes was a beautiful city and very professional club. I enjoyed my time there. That was a good game for me most importantly we won.

You played three seasons in Germany from 2014-2017 in Heidelberg and Bremerhaven. You had a super first season in Germany with the MLP Academics Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) playing 33 games averaging 11.1ppg, 6.1rpg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP: 46.9%, FT: 63.6%. What memories do you have of that season and how enjoyable was it playing and living in Heidelberg? 

My first year was good. I loved living in that very beautiful city and I was close to my family so they were able to visit me a lot.

How do you remember head coach Frenky Ignjatovic? He led the team last season into the semi-finals and continues to do good work there. How did he help your game in your rookie season in Germany?

Yes he is a very good players coach lets you play your game. He has confidence in his players which is why they are having a good season. 

You were teammates in Bremerhaven with ex NBA player Tyus Thomas who also didn’t meet the expectations. What interesting story can you tell about him where one could see that he once played in the NBA?

Unfortunately Tyrus was hurt so it was tough for him to get back to his regular self but that’s my guy I learned a lot from him on and off the court. 

In your second season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-BBL) you played 32 games averaging 8.0ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 49.0%, FT: 59.6%. How important was head coach Sebastain Machowski. Did he bring back joy to playing basketball again? 

Yes and no because you can’t let someone bring joy to basketball. You have self motivation but I like him as a coach. He was also a players coach because he was a player himself and had really good plays. 

You had good games in the last two seasons. How do you feel has your game developed in the last two years and how are you a better player now from your last game in Germany with Bremerhaven?

Just from experience. I got outside my comfort zone and played in different leagues so I’m comfortable in every league and can adjust to any situation.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 211cm center that can do damage in the zone. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit that description? 

Tyson chandler 

On what things are you working on to keep getting better as a player? On what things are you working on most this summer so you will be best prepared for the next opportunity? 

Just staying in game shape and taking care of my body and eating better. 

What is the next step for you? Is a return to Germany very high on your wish list? 

As of right now I have no idea but I would go to the BBL if it was the right situation because it’s a good place to play and again and some of my family is there. 

Please name the best player that you battled against in the NCAA that made it to the NBA? 

That’s a tough one I have no idea.

Please list your five all-time best teammates in no particular order? 

Brandyn curry Quincy Diggs Brad Tinsely Kyle Fogg Jerry Smith.

If you had to chose 4 heads to fill the NBA Rushmore which four guys old or new would you pick? 

Lebron Shaq Kobe Tim Duncan.

Thanks Waverly for the chat.

Davonte Lacy is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Tacoma, Washington that finished his third professional season and first with German Pro A team PS Karlsruhe averaging 16,8ppg, 3,4rpg and 4,1apg. Last season he played with Ehingen averaging 18,5ppg, 2,8rpg,5,2apg and 1,5spg. In his a rookie he played with UBC Magnofit Gussing Knights (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 11 FIBA Europe Cupgames averaging 7.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 37.8%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 80.6%; and 21 Austrian A Bundesliga games averaging 10.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 49.4%, 3FGP: 32.9%, FT: 80.2%, left in Feb.’16, later that month moved to BC Hallmann Vienna (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 15 games averaging 5.9ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 66.7%. He started his basketball career with Washington St. (NCAA) in 2011 playing a total of 110 NCAA games. His best season was his junior season where he played 23 games: averaging 19.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 39%, FT: 83.5%. In his senior year he played 31 games averaging 16.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 77.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the end of the 2018-2019 season.

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

Thanks for talking to me again, I am currently in Karlsrhue still. Going to head home in the next couple of days. Basketball has been treating me well these last couple months. 

It’s been a year since our last interview. Has basketball time flown by in this time for you as you are approaching your third professional season?

Yea the time always seems to fly by when preparing for a season. Was excited to come back to Germany and compete. 

It was another special season for PS Karlsruhe. When you came in last summer, did you sense that special basketball culture that has grown in the past few years as the club has moved from the Regionalliga up to the Pro A?

Yes of course, I had came once the season already started but upon my arrival you can understand why they moved up over the last couple years. The fans and the front office are very knowledgeable and professional. 

Last season the club reached the Pro A semi-finals playing a hard fought 4 game series against eventual Pro A champion Rasta Vechta, but this season the club reached only the quarterfinals. Considering the expectations that the club had did the team underachieve?

I don’t think we underachieved, we battled through some tough injuries and a lot of changes. I think we made the best out of some unfortunate circumstances. 

This season PS Karlsruhe was swept by top Pro A team Chemnitz. What is your summary to the Chemnitz series? Do you feel like you could have done more as a team to have had more of a chance?

Chemnitz is a great team, they share the ball well and have a high overall team IQ. We could have learned from our mistakes better. The effort was there we just had to be more cerebral to make an upset. 

It came to down to defense. In the regular season the club allowed 79 points per game, but in the playoffs against Chemnitz 87 points. What made it so tough playing them in this series?

They ran their sets and executed at a very high level. They had players make the right plays/ reads correctly over and over again. There is a reason they are the favorite to win the league. 

How tough was it the game to game scouting? You never really could key in on 1-3 players, because they were a club that really had 7-8 guys that could light up the score board in any given game?

Very tough to scout a team that has so many weapons offensively and are very unselfish so anyone could have a breakout game on any given night. 

There was a great stretch in November, December and January where the team won 10 of 11 games. This was the best time of the season where the club was playing it’s best basketball. Did the team instill that ‘We are invincible feeling’?

We were pretty confident around that time then dealing with two key injuries at the end of that time who were both unfortunately German as well hurt us in terms of not only lack of players but rotation guys with the 2 Germans on the court rule. 

Please sum up the team season for the club. What were the team highlights of the season and what made it special playing for this team? Was the win against Heidelberg at the end of the season one of the biggest wins of the season?

One key highlight was what you just referenced the winning 10/11 games at one point 8 in a row. We had things going good and everyone was playing well. Heidelberg was a key win because it ultimately clinched the playoffs for us. 

Let’s talk about your teammates. How special was it playing with American Orlando Parker? He is one of those great stories of a guy coming up the basketball ladder from the bottom. What did you appreciate most about him on the court?

It was Great to play with OP, he’s one of those guys that plays the right way and you can count on him to bring his energy and effort every night. He’s going to continue to climb that basketball ladder and prove himself against better and better competition. 

How did you see the development of Kahron Ross? He had an up and down rookie season. How did his game improve form the first day of training camp to game three against Chemnitz?

I didn’t get the chance to see him his first day of training camp but as I got here to the end of the season he has grown so much in terms of leading a team and learning how to be a pro. He always loved to work and compete if he continues that I believe he has a bright future in this game. 

German Filmore Beck is a bonafide veteran that can when he wants to shoot out the lights. Is there anything that you could soak up from his game that was able to help you in parts of your game?

One thing I can for sure take away from Fil was his resounding confidence and the idea that you should always believe in yourself and you can compete with anybody. 

You had many German players on the team like Pluskota, Nyama and Johnson. Of these three which player do you feel made the biggest stride?

I think DJ made the biggest stride in my eyes because he was in a shooting slump once I got here but overcame that and had some great games down the stretch and hitting some huge shots along the way. 

Let’s talk about your game. You had a prosperous third professional season averaging 16,8ppg, 3,4rpg and 4,1apg. Your scoring and assists were down a bit, but you also played three les minutes, but upped your three point shooting from 37% to 41%. How content were you in general with your season?

I’m ok with how the season went for me personally, I still feel I can improve on many things this summer that will help me a lot down the road. But winning and staying healthy doing so are always the main goals. 

In our last interview you stated that ‘Well ever since I became a professional I have focused on being more of a playmaker, making my teammates better, and setting them up to succeed’. How was your role different with PS Karlsruhe in comparison to Ehingen or were they similar?

I think my roles were similar coach Rudez trusted me and put me in positions to not only score but to make plays for my teammates similar to how my coach last year did. 

In our last interview you also stated this about your defense. ‘I think I can make majors strides. I believe this is the weakest part of my game and I think to make the jump to a higher level my defense will have to improve’. PS Karlsruhe defended better than Ehingen did when you were there. How do you feel did your defense improve this season?

I do think I improved in this aspect and showed that I can be a great defending at times both on the ball and off, but still needs improvement and will be a main focus this summer. 

You have always been a scorer and in Ehingen made major strides taking what the defense gave you. On what other things did you focus on this season to keep that scorer mentality strong and be successful?

This year I wanted to just be more efficient, I wanted to be a part of the 50-40-90 during the regular season but unfortunately I came short on the Free Throw Percentage. 

How good did it feel like shooting over 40% from downtown something you never did leading back to your time at Washington State. How do you approach the future with your three point shooting? Now you have to follow this season up keeping consistency. How much of a challenge will that be for you?

I changed some little mechanics dating back to my coach last year in Ehingen and had a lot more focus on some finer details along with just overall shot selection. The challenge will just be continuing to do the changes that made me a better shooter over a longer period of time. 

You had many great games this season including the 33 point explosion against Rostock or the 35 point explosion against Tuebingen. Was one of these games your personal best? Possibly the Tuebingen game since you really filled the stat sheet.

Those were both fun, but the Tuebingen game was my favorite because we had to win if we wanted to make the playoffs, they had a great atmosphere, and they played really well as well. It was high level basketball and those are the best games to be apart of. 

After two very strong seasons in the Pro A and seeing BBL games, you must have thoughts every now and then about what it would feel like competing against players of that level. What do you feel is still missing from your game or is it just a matter of getting lucky and getting an opportunity?

I know I can not only compete at the level but be successful at it. I will put myself up against any import in Germany regardless of the league, I just believe in myself and the work I put into the game. I do still have some deficiencies in my game but I’m working and limiting those this summer. I think it’s about situation and having a coaching staff and General Manger that believe in you as much as you believe in yourself then the opportunity will come. 

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro A this season?

Shy Ely was really good this year at being efficient and really active with out the ball. 

What is the next step for you? PS Karlsruhe fans want to keep you, but I’m sure top Pro A teams or BBL teams will be calling or could you imagine giving another country and culture a shot?

I will give anywhere another shot that is the right situation for growth in my career I want to play and compete against the best and will be looking for an opportunity to do so. 

On what things will you be continuing to work on in the lab this summer as you continue to improve your game?

Every aspect needs to get better and more fine tuned but my main focus will be strengthening my hips and quicker feet for defensive purposes, working on a tighter handle, and just being in great overall shape. 

How did you follow your ex team Ehingen this season? I can imagine that you are proud of how their season went?

Of Course they had a really good team and season this year. They played hard and earned everything they got, the city and the fans deserved to have a season like that. 

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

PG – Kahron Ross 
SG – Bradford Burgess
SF – Jason Dietrich 
PF – Orlando Parker 
C – Cyrus Tate 

(Big Lineup lol) 

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James?

-There’s never going to be a definitive answer I think we should stop comparing and just start appreciating their games and how they influenced their respective generations. 

What is your early opinion where Luka Doncic will end one day in the NBA? Could he be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA when all is said and done?

He has a chance to be, it is all set up for him to succeed it’s all about what he does now if he can win and stay healthy in the NBA. 

What was the last movie that you saw?

Us… Great Movie. 

Thanks Davonte for the chat

One unfortunately doesn´t see a lot of basketball books being released in Germany, but when one does, basketball fans grab the opportunity and get it. Ofcourse over the years there have been some informative books about Dirk Nowitzki as well as other gems like the fascinating book Backspin by new Basketball Lowen Braunschweig head coach Pete Strobl. Recently a series of books have been popping up in basketball Germany concerning the easyCredit BBL teams. 111 reasons to love your team. Clubs like FC Bayern Munich, Brose Bamberg and medi Bayreuth have released books concerning their franchise history and in September the next book will be released concerning the interesting 20 year history of the Fraport Skyliners. Of ourse cult club Alba Berlin also came out with an amazing book written by journalist and team expert Benjamin Moser. germanhoops.com sat down with Moser and talked about his book, his love for Alba Berlin and the 2019 BBL finals.

Benjamin thanks for talking to germanhoops.com For all those that don´t know about you could you please talk a little about what you have done in the German basketball world.

I started playing basketball as a kid in Berlin after Germany won its first and only international title at the euro ’93 . There has been a strong basketball movement after Barcelona 92, the Euro 93 and the rise of Streetball.  Playing for local clubs in Berlin on a competitive level as a youth player I faced many players that made it to the pros and to international honor, like Mithat Demirel, Misan Haldin or Jan Jagla. At the time while I played there was no JBBL or NBBL and it was hard for me to adapt to men´s basketball. I played one season in Bavaria at VSC Donauwörth and afterwards I never played on a competitive base regularly again. Since I was looking for an opportunity to stay connected to my beloved game I did a internship at a local newspaper and helped establish a blog about ALBA Berlin. At alba-inside.org you will find everything you need to know about ALBA Berlin.

You recently wrote a book concerning the history of Alba Berlin. Talk a little about how it came about and how challenging it was gathering information about a club so rich in history.

Before I got the offer to write a book about ALBA Berlin I did an internship at the sports editorial of a local newspaper. So I was able to attend training sessions, games and press conferences and of course I could interview players. It was a really cool experience interviewing Bryce Taylor or Derek Allen and I caught interest in blogging about ALBA Berlin. So me and my friend Marvin founded alba-inside.  Later we added Roy W. to the team who turned out to be a mastermind at blogging and he runs the page today as a true ALBA Berlin Expert.

By recommendation a literacy agent contacted me and told me about the possibility of writing a book about ALBA Berlin. And after some time, I said yes. It wasn’t that easy to find every information I wanted to have because a lot of ALBA Berlin Moments happened before the age of the internet and streaming services. So I had to search the archives of our local newspapers and very quick you would notice how media changed since the 1990’s. When ALBA Berlin played in the FIBA Euroleague newspapers would write about the game the next day or they would just publish the result. So sometimes I had to lower my expectations and try to gather information from multiple sources. A little bit sad to see was that nearly no information about ALBA Berlins predecessor DTV Charlottenburg is available online. I tried my best to still gather some information about the club as well.

Other teams in the easyCredit BBL have released books about their history like FC Bayern Munich, Brose Bamberg and medi Bayreuth. In a few months the Fraport Skyliners will do the same. Do you feel like this project will continue and a majority of the other BBL clubs will follow and release books?

I think it’s important that the history of basketball in Germany is told. I also believe it’s a great opportunity for fans to own a book about their club. It’s anther step forward to establish basketball as a sport in Germany besides football. On the other hand I believe it’s still a small market and besides the few German heavyweights in basketball it might be hard to gain interest for books about smaller clubs. But in the end it’s the decision of the publisher if they believe further books are worth a deal.

Your obviously an expert about Alba Berlin. They have reached the 2019 BBL final. They haven´t faired so well in the last few finals. Do you think that there is a curse on Alba Berlin?

At the first looks it seems that there is a final´s curse on our colors but I believe in a different approach. To really understand the situation you have to go back to the season 2016/17 before Coach Aito arrived. ALBA Berlin were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs for the second time in two years after finishing the regular season in 6^th place also for the second time. The team had not been to a final since 2014. Since Ojeda took over as the director of sports and the addition of Aito the club took a huge step towards national and international relevance again. Financially the club wasn’t able to compete with Bamberg or Munich for some time and the supporters are thankful for what has happened in the last two years. Despite the Cup Final against Bamberg, ALBA Berlin faced strong competition in Munich (Cup Final 2018/ League Final 2018) and Valenica (Eurocup 2019) and was never the favorite to win the titles. It’s a step by step approach to win a national or international title again and it might not happen. The supporters are very aware of that. ALBA Berlins task is to develop talent, which they are doing very well in recent years, besides acquiring veteran imports, like Luke Sikma or Peyton Siva. Next season the club is back on Europe’s biggest stage, the Euroleague, and again we’ll have to see how ALBA Berlin can built a balanced squad with the chance to compete for a title, which doesn´t mean they will ever be the favorite to do so, playing in the same league as Munich. So I don’t think we are cursed, I think we couldn’t overcome the financial reality in the recent series.

What is your summary of the Alba Berlin season leading up to the finals? They played a great Eurocup season, but fell short and didn´t win the cup. If they lose another final to FC Bayern Munich, will this be classified as a lost season?

It has been a great season so far. We’re able to witness some of the best basketball being playing in Europe. ALBA Berlins Basketball is a display of team sport and no matter the final outcome of the series it will be remembered as a great season. Sure, it wasn’t great losing the cup final in Bamberg but that will be forgotten by the end of the season, if it’s not already. A great Eurocup campaign with a final appearance which is way harder to do than to reach the German cup final will survive in the memories of the supporters and perhaps ALBA Berlin will be kings of Germany at the end of the season again. If not, so what!?  You can wish to win against Bayern Munich but you can’t expect it and the team secured a starting spot for the Euroleague next season. So it won’t be considered as a losing season. And remember Luke Sikma just signed a 4-Year-Contract extension. So maybe this season is just the beginning of something special.

What kind of series can we await? Alba Berlin has a stronger roster than last season and FC Bayern Munich have improved their offense as well. Is this a series that will go 5 games?

I guess we saw it in the first game that ALBA Berlin is fully capable of winning the series against Bayern Munich who still should be considered as the heavy favorites to lift the trophy. With the back against the wall in Game 2 ALBA Berlin needs to focus on maintaining their pace, to execute their early offense and to improve at the free throw Line. For ALBA Berlin it was the right thing to do not to focus on the officiating after Game 1 and to move on. I expect a clean fought Game 2 and an ALBA Berlin win this time. Then everything is possible despite ALBA Berlin never won a playoff series against Bayern Munich and has to win at least one game on the road.

I think that Luka Sikma could be the X-factor. He was a no show in the 2018 BBL final and didn´t have a good Eurocup final. How confident are you that Sikma will have a good series?

As far as being a dominant scorer against Bayern Munich Luke Sikma has a hard time as he needs to find ways to get past Barthel who’s physicality he hardly matches. On the other hand he is still the head of the team even if he’s not scoring 20 points. If ALBA manages to get open looks for Luke Sikma and he gets going from outside, I agree he could be the X-factor. I believe Sikma will play a solid series but I believe the spotlight will be on Peyton Siva. Siva is way harder to defend for Munich then preventing Sikma to score and Munich´s guard struggle to match Sivas athleticism. 

Talk about the development of ex NBA player Peyton Siva. He really has fought against injuries in his three years, but his game seems to be getting better. How have you seen his get better this season?

Peyton Siva is the key player on ALBA Berlins Squad, at least one of the two key players. Luke Sikma won the MVP last year while Siva battling injuries but ALBA Berlin needs both of them to perform to win close games.

While Sikma is the Head of the team, Siva is the Heart and Soul of ALBA Berlin. You could argue who’s the boss on the squad but they get along pretty well. Siva played a wonderful Eurocup Season and really established himself as a threat from outside while also being able to attack the basket at will. Siva has the ability to switch between being a field general and true Point Guard and taking over a game as a shooter himself. You could see these qualities in Game 1 of the Finals. Sometimes one will say he has to control his temper on defense to not getting into foul trouble. On the other hand Siva can be a clutch player on the defensive side of the ball which sometimes comes with the risk of committing a foul. One thing is for sure, he’s not the one to back down.

The only thing stopping him from being ready for the next level maybe his size. I hope he returns to ALBA Berlin for another season or on a long-term deal like Luke Sikma but I wouldn’t be surprised if Siva returns to the big League or a European Heavyweight in the Euroleague. Everything else will be beyond his level.   

What is your prediction for the 2019 BBL finals and how will Alba Berlin get by FC Bayern Munich?

I strongly believe Bayern Munich is the heavy favorite, as I said before, but I could see a change of momentum after Game 2 and ALBA Berlin winning the series in 5 Games. How this could be done? ALBA needs to stay out of foul trouble. You could see the difference in ALBAs game in Munich with Nnoko and Siva getting in foul trouble. Nnoko is a force under the rim and Bayern needs to work hard on the glass to keep him from rebounding. As long as Nnoko can stay on the field he is a huge challenge for Munich´s big men. Also ALBA Berlin needs to keep its pace on offense. Locked On Set play possessions ALBA can hardly win against a physical Munich team. Also if Sikma starts to find ways to score on Barthel it can decide the series but I don’t have great hope this will happen.

Please list your top three favorite Alba Berlin moments from your book?

Every Alba Fan remembers or heard about the game against Olympiakos Piräus in 1996 at the Max-Schmelling-Halle. I was lucky to be there and witness history. ALBA Berlin defeated the European Heavyweight in the very last seconds of the game and turned the place into a mad house. One of the greatest games I have ever seen live.

While I wrote the book I realized how good Henrik Rödl has been as a player. This guy had success at every stage of his career beginning with his high school days in North Carolina. I tried to cover his career and I think it’s a interesting read especially for the younger fans getting to know the legend a bit.

Besides other great ALBA Berlin Moments, like defeating a great Bologna Team with Dominique Wilkins or winning the Korac Cup in 1995, I decided to tell the readers about DTV Charlottenburg, the predecessor of ALBA Berlin. It was important to me that the story was told how the great history of ALBA Berlin really started.

 What was the last movie that you saw?

Actually at the moment I prefer to watch shows on Netflix so it’s the second season of “The Rain”

Thanks Benjamin for the chat.

Chris Frazier is a 28 year old 182cm shooting guard that hails from Heidelberg, Germany, but also has the American citizenship and finished his fifth professional season and second with the Rostock SeaWolves averaging 2,5ppg, in 6,8 minutes per game. Last season he helped them reach the Pro A averaging 9,9ppg,1,2rpg and 1,6apg. He started his basketball career at TV Schwetzingen (Germany-2.Regionalliga) before moving to the States to play at Dubuque (NCAA3) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 107 games and as a senior played 26 games averaging 13.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 88.0%. He came back to Germany in 2014 and played with the Otto Baskets Magdeburg (Germany-ProB) playing 20 games averaging 16.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 80.6%. In the 2015-2016 season he made the jump to the BBL playing for the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-BBL) playing 13 games averaging 2.3ppg. In the 2016-2017 season he played for the Artland Dragons (Germany-ProB) playing 25 games averaging 13.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 79.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the 2018-2019 season.

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

Hey Miles it’s nice to link up again. I am currently still in Rostock training and getting ready for whatever comes my way next season. The basketball life of course is always a blessing.

Congrats on a very successful season with the Rostock Seawolves. If you could describe the most special quality there is in the Rostock Seawolves culture what would it be?

Appreciate it. The quality that Rostock has more than any club that I’ve been apart of so far is that they really treat you like family here. If there is a problem it gets resolved ASAP.

The Rostock Seawolves played the Hamburg Towers tough, but lost 3-1 in the quarterfinals. How disappointing was this playoff series loss and do you feel like there was much more for the taking to have been successful than what the reality showed?

Hamburg beat us that’s that. We know and believe that we could have beaten Hamburg, they just had more experience in certain situations. At the end of the day they won fair and square!

In all three loses to the Hamburg Towers, Rostock was outrebounded and shot poorly from outside. What other factors contributed to not allowing you to get by this team?

It was nothing that they did that kept us from winning. It was all on us. Like you said shooting was a problem that series. If we make more shots we win those games. On the boards they just wanted it more than we did. Self inflicted

The club started up and down, but then had it’s best stretch from mid December to March winning 10 of 11 games. What was the team doing best there that allowed them to be so strong?

At that time we were playing our best defense. We went on a crazy run because we were just so aggressive on the floor. That just made certain teams uncomfortable.

You have seen a lot of arenas in your life, but there is only one Stadthalle Rostock. Describe a little why the atmosphere there made it so special to play there this season?

Our fans and the atmosphere is like no other in Germany. There might be a couple of Bundesliga teams that might be louder than our fans, but win or lose I’ve never seen the support that Seawolves fans give to the organization.

What do you feel was the club season highlight? Possibly sweeping Heidelberg or beating top team Chemnitz by 20 points?

To be honest I think it’s when we beat Hamburg in the playoffs. We might have lost that series, but I believe from that point on people will always have the Seawolves on their minds because this club is just getting started on building something special.

Let’s talk about your teammates. Yannick Anzuluni was back in Rostock for his second tour of duty and is one of those players that has had to climb the basketball ladder from the bottom. What made his game so special and was it easy to recognize that he lives and dies for the Seawolves?

Yannick is a special kind of talent. I say that because it seems half the time like he is not even trying, but at the end of that game has 28pts 9reb 4stls. Yannick will for sure go down as one of the best Seawolves player to come through here.

How much of a pleasure was it being teammates with Tony Hicks? What was your fondest memory with him and how much did you appreciate his playmaking?

Tony helped me in ways where I don’t even think he realizes it. Going up against players like him and Terrell Harris helped me find my old self in ways where I couldn’t have done it on my own. They both brought the best out of me every day in practice. Fondest memory too many he was our leader on the floor and took over when he needed too.

The club had three guys that averaged double figures in scoring including American Terrell Harris. How quickly did it take you to notice that there aren’t many more fierce competitors than him around?

Like I said above. Terrell brought out the best in me. We battled everyday and I can say that he hast brought my defensive level up to where it should be. He is easily top 3 shooting guard in the ProA .

How did you experience the development of German Tom Alte. He had played BBL, but had his Pro A break through with Rostock. What did you appreciate most about his game and can one define him as saying that he lives on the rim?


Tom is a talent that people need to watch out for. He is super athletic, he can score where ever. As soon as he finds that ‘dog’ in him and plays with an aggressive, but smart way, he will be a force to deal with. Great guy with a bright future.

Excluding Tom Alte, which other German player do you feel developed best from the German players?

Darian Cardenas. He is another young German talent that a lot of people overlook. He had a break through this season and I believe that he will only get better. Watch out for him in the near future!

Let’s talk about your game. After averaging 31 minutes and helping Rostock reach the Pro A, this season you averaged only 6,8 minutes. Was this the toughest season in your career?

I won’t lie. It was hard and head scratching. I know I could have helped the team more than I did, but I still appreciate the chance Rostock gave me. Coach gave me my chances and I took full advantage of every moment.

Did this season bring back memories to your BBL season with Crailsheim? You definitely deserved more minutes. What factors do you believe led to you not getting more minutes?

It reminded me a little bit of Crailsheim except in Crailsheim I broke my foot and it was hard to get into the rotation. This season I honestly don’t know why I didn’t receive more minutes. When I came in I actually did a lot for the minutes that I did play, but Coach had a different vision which required me to take a role that I had to accept and battled every day to get the guys ready.

How tough is it to develop in general when your getting less minutes. What positives can you take from the season concerning your game?

It was hard because I didn’t want to accept it and I battled every day to gain more minutes with little success. What I can say is that I am a way better defender now than I was last season thanks to Terrell.

In the summer of 2018 in our last interview you stated this would be a make or break season. How do you feel will you bounce back from your second Rostock season best?

I said that and I meant it, but the season didn’t break me. I saw and viewed the game differently this year and took a lot for myself to improve in the summer. I can’t remember the time where I’ve been this motivated to get started for the new season.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro A this season?

Toughest player I battled this season was Terrell Harris.

What is the next step for you? I can’t imagine that you will stay in Rostock? Would another Pro A team be a goal or possibly going to another country or would a top Pro B team with ambitious for the Pro A get your attention?

Haha a lot of people say they can’t imagine me staying here, but we will see how the future plays out. Everything is open for me. I would stay and prove that I belong, I’m open to any Pro A teams and Pro B teams that want to seriously do something. Wherever I can get a chance to prove myself all over again.

On what things will you be working on this summer to continue to keep improving as a player and keep moving up the basketball ladder?

My all around game and my body. I guess I’m to skinny to play in the Pro A so I guess it’s time to put on weight.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

PG (Matt Reid) SG (Terrell Harris) SF (Shy Ely) PF (Greg Graves) C (Adam Chubb)

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA?


If Luka does anything like his rookie season throughout his career he will easily be the 2nd best. There never be anybody better than Dirk.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time?

Lebron James is the best all around player of all time, but he isn’t the GOAT if that makes sense. He was brave to say it, but he saw what happens this year.

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?

Chuck is just mad that him And MJ aren’t friends anymore.

If Tom Brady does win a seventh Super Bowl where will he stand with the greatest athletes of all-time?

No. MJ would still Be the greatest athletes to ever play a sport.

What was the last movie that you saw?

Jurassic World

Thanks Chris for the chat.

Roland Nyama is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Frankfurt, Germany that has the German/Cameroonian citizenship and recently finished his second season with PS Karlsruhe averaging 8,5ppg, 3,3rpg and 1,3apg. Last season with PS Karlsruhe he averaged 6,5ppg and 2,2rpg. He started his basketball career with the FTG Frankfurt junior team. He then got further valuable basketball experience with Eintracht Frankfurt (2.Regionalliga) in 2008. He then continued to play with Eintracht Frankfurt (2.Regionalliga) from 2009-2011 while also playing for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt II (Germany-ProB) where he played 6 games in two years. In 2011, he came to the United States and played for the Holderness School. He came to Stony Brook in 2013 and in his first full season played 34 games averaging 7.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 69.2%. In his last season he played 32 games averaging 10,3ppg, 4,4rpg and 1,4apg He spoke to germanhoops.com after he finished the 2018-2019 season with PS Karlsruhe before joining his new team the Tigers Tuebingen.

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

Hi Miles thanks for having me again. I’m currently in the Stuttgart Area since the workout situation there is more favorable to me than in my hometown Frankfurt. I have been taking some time off of basketball to recharge but I’m keeping myself in shape with other forms of workout.

It’s been a year since our last interview. Has basketball time flown by in this time for you as you are approaching your third professional season? 

Yea definitely. Time during Basketball season, at least after the preseason seems to be going a lot faster than one notices.

It was another special season for PS Karlsruhe. How do you believe did the special basketball culture grow in the last season after it’s amazing Pro A debut in 2017? 

After a rough start to this season, we turned people into believers. People that thought that last year was a fluke were proven wrong and we established ourselves as a force to be reckoned with in the league. Hopefully the Basketball support in that area will grow since there’s a lot of hidden talent there. 

Last season the club reached the Pro A semi-finals playing a hard fought 4 game series against eventual Pro A champion Rasta Vechta, but this season the club reached only the quarterfinals. Considering the expectations that the club had did the team underachieve?

We definitely didn’t underachieve. After 10 games we were 2-8, went through a coaching change and still managed to reach the playoffs. It was a testament to our teams character and willingness to go through the grind. 

This season PS Karlsruhe was swept by top Pro A team Chemnitz. What is your summary to the Chemnitz series? Do you feel like you could have done more as a team to have had more of a chance?

At the end of the day, Chemnitz just made less mistakes and was never too impressed by our pressure. Throughout the majority of games we led only to relinquish that lead later on. Personally I could’ve been more aggressive on offense as I was struggling to find a rhythm all series. It came to down to defense.

In the regular season the club allowed 79 points per game, but in the playoffs against Chemnitz 87 points. What made it so tough playing them in this series? 

Chemnitz had a counter for every action we were trying to take away. Also their off the ball movement is incredible. All in all they execute their gameplay with great precision and play as a complete unit. 

How tough was it the game to game scouting? You never really could key in on 1-3 players, because they were a club that really had 7-8 guys that could light up the score board in any given game? 

It was tough having to respect the entire core and prepare for them. But also, the system was what made them successful and the willingness to share the basketball. So we didn’t spend much time looking at individual clips but more on how their team concept works. 

There was a great stretch in November, December and January where the team won 10 of 11 games. This was the best time of the season where the club was playing it’s best basketball. Did the team instill that ‘We are invincible feeling’? 

Good times. No coach kept telling us that we haven’t reached our goal yet and that we needed to respect every opponent. At first it was somewhat easier to win games since we didn’t have that much pressure and teams underestimated us. What that time taught us, though, was how to execute and grind out wins in the last minutes of games. 

Please sum up the team season for the club. What were the team highlights of the season and what made it special playing for this team? Was the win against Heidelberg at the end of the season one of the biggest wins of the season?

It was a rollercoaster of emotions. 2 key guys injured before the season started, 3 more guys signed, one of them had to go and then another Key German player injured. At one point we finished the game vs Nuremberg with 4 players. Heidelberg was a big win for us because it was a rivalry game but the biggest, in my opinion was away at Tuebingen in overtime where we basically secured our playoff spot in front of 5000 + fans. The crowd was amazing and the intensity of the game was elevated to another level because of that. It felt like the playoffs 

Let’s talk about your teammates. How special was it playing with Davonte Lacy? You have played with many pure scorers in your career, but where did his scoring ability rank with all the guys that you have played with in your career? 

Davonte is an incredible scorer because he gets to where he wants to go whenever he wants. He is deceptively quick and his high release makes it tough to bother his jump shot. Battling him in practice every day was fun. He’s probably up there with some of the best scorers I’ve played with. Another guy who comes to to mind when speaking of great (perimeter) scorers is Jarelle Reischel.

How did you see the development of Kahron Ross? He had an up and down rookie season. How did his game improve from the first day of training camp to game three against Chemnitz? 

His confidence grew throughout the season. Everybody knew he could be special but he had to believe it himself. He’s quick, has a good pull up and is a very willing passer. I think he’s going have a great career moving forward.

German Filmore Beck is a bonafide veteran that can when he wants to shoot out the lights. Is there anything that you could soak up from his game that was able to help you in parts of your game?

I mean I’ve know Filmore for 10 + years now from our Frankfurt days but in this season in particular I kind of adopted his confidence in his sho tmaking ability. Meaning it doesn’t matter if he’s 5-5 or 0-10 he’s still taking that shot with the same amount of confidence. 

You had many German players on the team like Pluskota, Kamdem and Johnson. Of these three which player do you feel made the biggest stride? 

Noah made the biggest stride. He was thrown into hot water by injuries and had to play more than we or even him expected but he did an excellent job and matured on the court but also off the court as a result. 

Let’s talk about your game. You averaged 8,5ppg, 3,3rpg and 1,3apg and shot 36% from outside in your second pro A season. How content were you with your season?

It was alright. The first part of the season I was playing very well but then I had to sit out a few games because of an injury and never really regained my form and as a result my stats dropped.

You improved your stats in your second Pro A season. How was it easier playing Pro A this season for you in comparison to last season? 

Basketball is pretty easy if you don’t overcomplicate it. My coaches (Mai and Rudez) did a great job putting me into positions on the court where I could be effective and use my strengths. Also being able to deal with the physicality a bit more helped. 

You improved your outside shooting last season shooting 37% and was solid this season at 36%. Last season you credited 8am shooting sessions and just continuing to shoot the ball. How do you feel did your shooting overall develop in your second season in the Pro A as you got more professional experience?

Reps and confidence. Also, it helped that coaches pin pointed where my shots should be going from during our film sessions and developed practice plans based on my in game shot selection. 

How do you feel did your overall game develop further in the Pro A this season? How did especially your defensive game develop in your second successful season with PS Karlsruhe? 

I want to get more precise in my decision making offensively especially in creating for others. Defensively I feel like I’m pretty good on the ball but off the ball I have to be more alert and sniff out actions. Just be a little bit more alert at all times. 

You had some personal big games against Phoenix Hagen scoring 17 points and hit Nurnberg for 15 points. What was your personal best game of the season?

I felt like the first home game vs Hamburg was my best game that season. We unfortunately lost but I felt that I had a groove going pretty early and the home crowd energized me as well. 

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro A this season? 

Shy Ely.

What is the next step for you? Are you content with being a solid German Pro A player or do you have ambition to possibly give another country and culture an opportunity?

I’m pretty happy with being in Germany for the time being. I would love to help a team move up to the BBL and then stay there with that same team.

On what things will you be continuing to work on in the lab this summer as you continue to improve your game?

Athleticism, ball handling, decision making and going try to gain some weight.

If you had to pick your personal favorite starting five of teammates over the years which players would you chose?

Richie Williams, Filmore Beck, Jarelle Reischel, Orlando Parker, Cyrus Tate.

What is your personal opinion about the never ending debate of who is the greatest between Michael Jordan and Lebron James? 

Let Lebron be Lebron and Mike be Mike and enjoy greatness. 

What is your early opinion where Luka Doncic will end one day in the NBA? Could he be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA when all is said and done?

Luka will be a Hall of Famer when its all said and done. He represents modern basketball and plays the way it should be played.

What was the last movie that you saw?

I’m hoping to see Avengers End Game before this gets published. Besides that, The Movie US’

Thanks Roland for the chat.

is a 31 year old 204cm forward from Nassau, Bahamas that completed his second season in Germany and first with the Tigers Tuebingen. He was injured for most of the season and played only 8 games averaging 1,6ppg and 1,1rpg. Last season he played for the ROMERSTROM Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA averaging 4,8ppg and 2,6rpg. He has played most of his professional career in Canada with teams Halifax Rainmen (Canada-NBL Canada), Island Storm (Canada-NBL Canada), and Windsor Express (Canada-NBL Canada). He also gained experience with teams Maitland Mustangs (Australia-WARATAH) and Francavilla Fontana (Italy-Serie C Silver). He played four years at Dalhousie University (Canada-CIS) and as a senior played 21 games averaging 14.6ppg, 6.4rpg, FGP: 49.4%, FT: 61.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com at the end of the 2018-2019 season.

Robert thanks for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and what is on your agenda in the next months

Hi Miles, thank you for reaching out. I am in Toronto right now and plan on being here for most of the off season. I will do a lot of training and continue to study some German language courses in the next few months.

Has the NCAA Madness taken your mind off not reaching the playoffs with the Tigers Tuebingen?

The tournament was crazy this year, but nothing can take my mind of off missing the playoffs.

The club wanted to get back to the easyCredit BBL. How did you experience this season in Tuebingen with the team and fans? Is the disappointment high that the BBL won’t be back next season for the team?

The team and the fans were both great in Tuebingen. The fans supported us through both the good and bad times this season. The club operated like a family and did a good job of taking care of the players. I know that Tuebingen would love to return to the BBL and I believe that they can make the ascent happen.

One can say it was a tale of two seasons for the Tigers Tuebingen. In 2018 things didn’t go well, but with the arrival of Georg Kampf in mid January the team was reborn. What was your summary of the season of Tuebingen?

This season was one of highs and lows. However we did not break and we kept fighting until the end. We started with a completely new team and with many players who did not have experience in this league. The club, coaches and players were all adjusting to how things work in the Pro A. We took some time to build chemistry and to get into a flow. Once the team figured everything out, our confidence rose in our ability to finish games and the we went on a big run at the end.

Before Georg Kampf came on board the club had a disappointing record of 7-11. What do you feel were the main reasons then for the club not being able to have more success?

We had a completely new team and not much experience in this league. We had to learn how to play together and learn what it took to win in this league. Building chemistry can be difficult, it takes time and sacrifice from the players. 

Ex head coach Aleksandar Nadjfeji was a legend in the BBL as a player and had had coaching experience as an assistant. Last season he had misfortune of not keeping Tuebingen in the BBL and this season he was let go. Is he one of those classic examples of a guy that is simply better suited to be an assistant than a head coach?

Coach Nadjfeji really knows the game. He has played basketball at a really high level for a long time. He has a lot of knowledge and has potential to be a great coach. I think he just needs more time to develop as a coach. Being a head coach is a big transition and there was a learning curb. Coach Nadjfeji was definitely growing as a head coach and was really finding his voice as the season progressed. Experience is an important thing and being a rookie coach definitely proved to be challenging. With more grooming and experience he can become an excellent head coach.

Head coach Georg Kampf is one of those coaches that is very hard nosed, won’t take crap form anyone and has his own way of getting his message across. How vital was his presence for the turnaround of the team?

Coach Kampf has been in this business a long time. He has been coaching for many years and has his own way of doing things. He did a good job getting everyone on the same page. He had us focused on playing to our strengths and being in better shape than our opponents. He helped us believe in ourselves at a time when moral was low.

What do you feel changed with the arrival of Georg Kampf? The team defended better, but also had games where they gave up many points and the offense seemed to score more.

We played bigger with Coach Kampf. We had been playing small ball before and we moved Elijah to the 3 and Enosh to the 4 position with Robertas at the 5. That helped with our defense. Also we did a lot of extra running and conditioning. Playing bigger and being in better shape than many other teams helped us a lot in games. 

Do you feel like if Georg Kampf had been brought in a month earlier that you would have made the playoffs or did the late season loses against PS Karlsruhe and the Artland Dragons cost you the season.

We were in position to make the playoffs. Those late season losses cost us our chance to make the playoffs. We had the opportunity to win both of those games. We were up and made costly mistakes in the final minutes of both the Artland and Karlsruhe games. A single possession can cost you the whole season. 

Obviously the Tigers Tuebingen want to get back to the BBL as soon as possible. Despite not having been able to accomplish it this season, what positives did the season bring the organization?

I feel like this season was a turning point for the club. The team had been struggling for a while in the BBL. This season we were able to find ourselves again and figure out how to build a winning product. We finished the season at 15-15, with a strong final push. The club is definitely moving in the right direction.

Let’s talk about your teammates. American Reed Timmer had a great rookie season. After being his teammate for a season, does he have the talent and if so is he ready for the BBL or is another season in the Pro A or a season in Austria more beneficial for his development?

Reed is a very talented scorer. He is a great shooter and he has the strength and body control to finish with contact at the rim. His understanding of the European game definitely improved a lot as the season progressed. If he can find the right situation he could definitely play in the BBL. 

How important was a guy like Elijah Allen for the club and you? How important was his good spirit and up beat mood to keep the team calm at all times?

Elijah was a great guy for the club and probably my closest friend on the team. He is a great team guy who is always looking to do the little things and play the game the right way. He was great for us at the 3 position and really prided himself on locking up the opposing teams best player. He helped the team function better both on and off the court. 

Even if the team didn’t make the playoffs, how did the young guys profit most from 30 year old veteran Tyler Laser? What player do you feel gained the most from his presence?

Tyler has a great work ethic. He always gets extra shots after practice and takes a lot of extra time to stretch and maintain his body. He would always push the younger players to get extra shots and take time to stretch. Rookie Reed Timmer gained the most from Tyler’s example. Reed was Tyler’s shooting partner for the season, and he witnessed first hand what it takes to stay in this business for a long time. 

German Besnik Bekteshi has been around for ages, but is only 26 years old. How did his game develop further and is he still a guy that could make more of an impact in the BBL down the road?

Besnik was a great guy for us this season. He is a smooth scorer and playmaker who always plays under control. He has a veterans presence on the court and I believe he could have more of an impact in the BBL if he was placed in the right situation for his game. 

German Enosh Wolf had a very strong season. One could say his break out season as a professional. How did you see the NCAA champion develop further this season and is he a late bloomer and still talented enough for another BBL run?

Enosh had a great season. He was given an opportunity to show his abilities and he displayed them with a lot of confidence. He is a smart player who has great touch and mobility for his size. He continued to improve as the season went on and he still has room to grow as a player. He definitely has enough talent to get another opportunity at the BBL. 

How raw is Nemanja Nadjfeji? You saw him play every day. Did the absence of his father affect him or is he still on a good way as he continues to develop as a player?

Nemanja has a lot of potential as a player. He has great vision, footwork and is a very crafty player. He continued to develop even after his father left the team. He needs to continue to work on his body to develop his strength and athleticism. If he keeps working he will be great player.

Let’s talk about your game. You came to Tuebingen and got inured early and couldn’t play until February. How tough was this period for you? Was this one of your tougher injuries in your career?

I have been lucky to never have a surgery or a serious injury in my career. So when I broke my left foot the week before the first game of the season I was devastated. It was really tough because I could not do anything to rehab it for a long time. I am a very active person who loves to move and do things. Not being able to do what I love for a long period of time was really difficult for me. This was definitely the toughest injury of my career.

What did you learn about yourself and the game of basketball when you were out?

Not playing and working your butt off to get healthy must have been an adjustment. I decided to work on the mental and tactical part of the game. I am an energy player who outworks others. But learning to work smarter and more efficiently was big for my growth this season. I watched a lot of film and got to see the game from the sideline for most of the season. I asked a lot of questions to the coaching staff and the other veterans to see things from their perspective. I definitively became a more intelligent and tactical player this season. Being so active I usually do not have to get in shape, because I typically stay in good shape. But after sitting out for most of the season I had to completely start from scratch. It was a lot of hard work but I was able to rebuild my body and get back into amazing shape.

You didn’t get many minutes. How disappointing was coming back and not playing? What do you feel were the main reasons for not getting the minutes? Did you and head coach Georg Kampf not see eye to eye?

It was really challenging to come back and not play much. I think that Coach Georg had already set his rotation by the time I had come back. The team was winning with the way that he had set things and I don’t think that he wanted to mess with that. 

So you see this as a lost year? Did you get anything positive out of the Tuebingen experience?
Even though I lost a season playing, there were many positive things that I took from this experience. I learned a lot about the game, watching practices and film. This team had so many great guys and we were able to develop some real cool friendships. Tuebingen is a beautiful city with amazing fans and a great organization. I really enjoyed the way the club treated us. There was a real family environment, which can be rare in professional sports.

You stated in our last interview that you’re a late bloomer and have been playing catch up your whole career. How did the Tuebingen experience affect you mentally?
I believe that the Tuebingen experience has made me tougher mentally. You put in the work and prepare yourself for success. But things do not always go your way. I was sidelined by an injury for most of this season, and when I returned to the court I was not able to get into the rotation. Many players would be devastated by a season like this, but I focused on the positives. Tough times happen, but how you react when things get tough determine your character.

Who was the toughest player that you battled this season in the Pro A?
I am not sure. There are a lot of good players in the league.

What is the next step for you? Will you be doing some soul searching this summer about your future? Maybe playing in another country might do some good for you?

I will continue to put in work and get ready for my next opportunity. I know that I am a great player and a great teammate. I have prepared myself and I know that I will get another opportunity. I love playing in Germany and learning more about my German heritage, but I am always open to new experiences. 

You have a long summer ahead of you. On what things will you be working on most in the basketball lab as you get ready for that next opportunity?
I will be working a lot on my body this summer. I plan on increasing my functional strength, mobility and movement patterns. I want to ensure that my body will be completely healthy and that it will perform at an even higher level. I will be faster, stronger and more athletic after this off season. That should help me to continue to finish, rebound and defend at a very high level. Offensively I will continue to work on my pick and roll finishes, developing my post moves from either block, and to master spacing and making shots after penetration. 

Please name your five all-time best teammates in college and pro’s
These are some guys that I enjoyed playing with and had really good relationships both on and off the court. Ritchie Kanza Mata, Jermaine Bucknor, Elijah Allen, Mark St. Fort and Jaraun Burrows.

It’s still so early, but when all is said and done could Luka Doncic be one of the greatest Europeans that ever played in the NBA?
Luka is an extremely special talent. He definitely has a really advanced skill set and a veterans mindset at a really young age. He can definitely be one of the greatest European players to ever play in the NBA.

What was your reaction when you heard that Lebron James named himself the greatest of all-time?
I admire his confidence and self believe. However, I do not agree. I still do not think that he is greater than either Jordan or Kobe. Lebron needs to win a couple more Championships to be in the conversation. 

Charles Barkley recently proclaimed that Tom Brady Is more of a GOAT than Michael Jordan. Do you share his opinion?
That is difficult to know who is the greatest between Brady and Jordan. They are the GOAT’s of their respective sports.

Tom Brady won sixth Super Bowl. Where will he be if he wins a seventh next season?
Tom Brady is definitely the GOAT of the NFL. Another championship will only cement his legacy further.

What was the last movie that you saw?
I am a big superhero guy. I recently watched Captain Marvel, it was really enjoyable.

Thanks Robert for the chat.

                When May rolls around in Germany, the days are getting longer, the temperatures are getting warmer, there are longer visits at the outdoor cafes in the night and the basketball in the easyCredit BBL is getting heated up with the playoff battles between ambitious teams. With the weather a lot warmer, the arena´s get a lot hotter and everything is sizzling with competitive and exciting basketball. But what has been happening in the spring of 2019? The weather has been warm and the arena´s have had that summerly warm feeling, but the sizzle has been as nonexistent as the usual dominance of the Golden State Warriors in the NBA finals. Where Toronto Raptors and Kawhi Leonard have been the main attraction of the 2019 NBA playoffs so has the term Sweep in the 2019 easyCredit BBL playoffs. Where was that next Rickey Paulding buzzer beater or that brilliant Josh Mayo game winner or that rare quadruple double from Rashid Mahalbasic in the playoffs? Where was that game winner by Tyrese Rice or Nikolais Zisis?  Instead of seeing intense playoff battles going back and forth and games being decided in dramatic fashion, fans witnessed five sweeps out of six playoff series. In the last years there have been at least one five games series or even two or three, but none so far this playoffs. The 2019 BBL playoffs so far have been as unspectacular as France´s pathetic display in Turkey in a 2020 European Football qualifying game losing 2-0. The only refreshing and bright spot in the playoffs as well as the whole regular season was Rasta Vechta. The Cinderella story steered by head coach Pedro Calles wooed the whole league with their inspiring play and proving you can have success with a little budget. They faced off against Bamberg losing 4 tough games despite having a depleted lineup. Bamberg was the only team in this playoffs that was able to get a win while all other teams were swept in their playoff games. But maybe that spectacular series and ending will occur in the finals. The 2019 NBA playoffs saved it´s best for last as the Toronto Raptors totally surprised the Golden State Warriors and maybe now fans will get that spectacular five games series between FC Bayern Munich and Alba Berlin.

                FC Bayern Munich faced off against a very tired Rasta Vechta, but they never gave up. Despite having some of their injured guys back with Seth Hinrichs and Clint Chapman, FC Bayern Munich remained unscathed and easily sweep the Cinderella team. FC Bayern Munich knew exactly where to attack Rasta Vechta which was down low scoring 38 points and totally dominated the boards 33-15 in game one winning 98-88. Rasta Vechta did a good job using their strength shooting from outside nailing 17 three´s, but FC Bayern´s offensive attack was too balanced as four guys scored in double figures and Devin Booker and Vladimir Lucic combined for 45 points. In game two, Rasta Vechta couldn´t take advantage of their home court losing 89-71. The Bavarian squad dominated inside more than in game one scoring 48 points in the paint and stepped up their defense forcing Rasta Vechta to 24 turnovers. FC Bayern Munich had only three guys in double figures scoring, but their overall offense was better balanced and got solid input from everyone and got 42 points from the bench while Rasta Vechta got only 20 points. In game 3, Rasta Vechta played a solid first half, but FC Bayern Munich broke away in the second half winning easily 95-80. They dominated in the paint again and controlled the boards 28-24 while scoring 38 points inside. FC Bayern Munich got four guys to score in double figures led by captain Danilo Barthel and Vladimir Lucic with 17 points a piece. The Munich bench contributed 26 points and Rasta Vechta only 6 points. TJ Bray saved his best for last exploding for 38 points against his future team. It has been reported that TJ Bray has signed with FC Bayern Munich, but so far the club hasn´t made it official.

                Alba Berlin also had an easy time with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg winning two shoot outs on the road and buckling down on defense at home allowing only 68 points. In game one, Alba Berlin won 100-93 in Oldenburg. Even if the EWE Baskets Oldenburg shot well from the free throw line with 25/28, they allowed Alba Berlin to the line 44 times as they committed a miserable 31 fouls. Alba Berlin controlled the boards 31-24 and forced Oldenburg to 16 turnovers while only coughing up the ball 9 ties. Alba Berlin shot well from outside while keeping Oldenburg at 6/21 form downtown. Alba Berlin got a super performance from ex NBA player Peyton Siva with 26 points, while the big three of Oldenburg combined for 45 points. Mahalbasic and Cummings did their job scoring 21 points a piece, but Paulding was cold scoring only 3 points. In game two, Alba Berlin defended their home court and played brilliant defense winning 79-68. Alba Berlin didn´t only defend well, but had their offense rolling and sharing the ball great as they had six guys in double figures led by Rokas Giedraitis with 13 points. Alba Berlin also controlled the boards 37-30 snagging 13 offensive rebounds. The Oldenburg big three combined for 51 points, but little came from the rest getting only 5 points from the bench. Alba Berlin closed out the series on the road 100-93 dominating all important aspects. Alba Berlin shot 41,7% from outside while the EWE Baskets couldn´t hit much at 28%. Alba Berlin won the rebound duel 33-28 and coughed up less balls. Alba Berlin showcased four guys scoring in double figures and were led by another very potent Peyton Siva with 26 points. The EWE Baskets Oldenburg got 42 points combined from Mahalbasic and Cummings while Paulding only had 3 points, but got extended help from Franz Massenat and Nathan Boothe who combined for 34 points,, but once again had little input from the bench.

                The easyCredit 2019 BBL finals is a dream matchup and is the first back to back finals with the same two teams since the 2004 and 2005 finals which featured Frankfurt and Bamberg. FC Bayern Munich swept the season series winning 83-81 at home and winning 85-75 in Berlin. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best basketball in the 83-81 victory being outrebounded 36-19, but forced Alba Berlin to 17 turnovers. Derrick Williams had a super performance with 26 points while Rokas Giedraitis hit for 22 points. In the return game in Berlin, FC Bayern Munich continued to have problems rebounding losing 29-22, but defended the three line better forcing Alba Berlin to 5/23 shooting. This could be a long series if both teams can play up to their potential. Unlike like last season where FC Bayern Munich wasn´t the lethal three point shooting team, this season they have proved that they have the ultimate inside out game. They shot over 40% from outside this season and 61% from the two point area. Alba might have the bit more beauty in their game, but stats don´t lie, they don´t shoot as well as the Bavarian team this season. A big weakness with FC Bayern Munich is their rebounding, but if they are hitting on all cylinders then rebounding isn´t as vital, but if they have an off night then the rebounding woes could be costly. Alba Berlin cough up the ball a lot and are shaky at the free throw line which could bs costly in the last seconds. Alba Berlin are a very good defensive team and now have a real challenge and will need to be consistent. The X-factor for Alba Berlin has to be Luke Sikma. He had a weak 2018 finals and 2019 Eurocup final, but maybe three is a charm for him and Alba Berlin if he can have an MVP type series. FC Bayern Munich have the better offense and when defending well will beat Alba Berlin in a four or five game series. But if Alba Berlin can scare and steal game one, then it could be a very tight and exciting series.

Chris Miller  is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Brooklyn, New York that is playing his first season with Club de Baloncesto Cojute (El Salvador-Liga MB). He finished his second season recently with the VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 26 games averaging 18.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-2 (2.8spg), FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 78.1%. He completed his rookie season in Germany with VfL Bensheim (2.Regionalliga). Before coming to Europe, he got semi-pro league experience in the states with the Jamestown jackals. He played college ball at Salem international University and graduated in 2015. He spoke to germanhoops.com recently about his season with the Giessen Pointers.

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

Thank you for taking the time to talk to me. At the moment I am in Cojutepeque El Salvador. Basketball life is treating me good. I finished a good season in Germany, played for a month in Dominican Republic, and now I am part of a playoff push in El Salvador.

After playing in Bensheim Germany as a rookie in 2016-2017 you played in El Salvador in the summer of 2017 and this summer your playing in El Salvador for Club De Baloncesto Cojute Cuscatlan. How do you feel is getting that extra professional experience more beneficial than remaining at home and working on your game in the lab?

Yes Cojute is a nice place with genuine people. I feel great to have any chance to continue my career. For Me personally, my goal is to play All year round like I am now. I get my work done anywhere I go, so I am not worried about that. I love to travel and play basketball so I will jump to the opportunities to do so as they come.

In your first game in El Salvador you scored 34 points, had 10 boards and 6 rebounds. How good does it feel being back in El Salvador? What do you enjoy most about playing in El Salvador?

My first game was a good experience. I am in a position to play Point Guard and lead this team to a decent seed in the playoffs. Hopefully I can continue to perform like the first game and better. I enjoy a lot of different things here. The fact to continue my professional career is a blessing. This league allows 3 Americans per team so I am able to make new friends and network. This is a third world country so things are very different but it gives me an opportunity to experience another culture. The people here are not too fortunate but are the first to help. Truly genuine people we can learn a lot from.

How is your game more mature now in El Salvador than it was two summers ago?

My game has grown tremendously since my last season here in 2017. I played 2 more years Professionally. I led my team to a championship and found out what it truly takes to win. I am very comfortable playing point guard now. Also I have added a lot more to my game that I am very eager to show!!

After a very strong season in the Regionalliga with the Giessen Pointers, what is your main goal as a player now? Obviously you want to win games, but are you working on certain parts of your game or playing it safe and showcasing your strengths to help you for that next contract in Europe?

My main goal as a player is to grow my brand of basketball. Where ever I go I want people to know who I am and that I am a legit professional. Many times I get overlooked because of the leagues I have played in, but I have been doing this consistently for 5 years now without an agent. I only know how to play hard. For me to play it cool will be an injustice to the team I am currently on. This for me is a summer season so I am waiting to hear where I will land in Europe in the fall.

Talk a bit about the LMB league in El Salvador. How do you rate it to the German Regionalliga and Regionalliga 2 and are there any other well known players balling with and against you at the moment? I believe Marcus Faison is a guy that is one of the better known guys.

LMB is growing and becoming a respectable league. I think it is more competitive than the Regionalliga leagues because of the number of Americans alone. This league is exciting. They embrace big numbers and showcasing skills. You have to bring it every game!!There are some well established players playing here this season. I am excited to match up with guys like Christopher Blake, Anthony Brown and Marcus Faison.

Let’s talk about your Regionalliga season with the Giessen Pointers. You helped the team move up from Regionalliga 2. In the Regionalliga the team finished in seventh place with a record of 11-15. What was your season summary of the team’s performance?

After winning our championship there was a coaching change and new players added. We were a completely different team and were spending the year trying to figure it all out. We had our good games and some bad games. In the beginning of the season we were projected to be last place. We finished 7 out of 14. Its not the best year but I will take it.

The team had it’s best stretch in December and January with a 5-2 record, but finished the season losing 7 of 9 games. Why was the team so up and down? What kind of experience was it learning some Balkan basketball from Airosius Martynas?

When Marty arrived his intensity brought a new energy to the team. Some of our guys were going through the motions of a long season some were banged up. Marty came in with a lot to prove. We started off hot and were in the range of 4th place. The end of the season was tough, we were all playing banged up and some key guys were hit with season ending injuries.

You also played some games with 40 year old German Felix Rotaru. Was he a guy that had to hear the daily jokes about his age or did every one have full respect for the veteran?

Felix has my 100% of my respect. I am still trying to find his fountain of youth. At times he moves as if he is the youngest guy in the gym. He still has the ability to impact the game both on offense and defense. He has seen 20 years of professional basketball. I will like to accomplish that as well so when he spoke this year I was listening closely.

Let’s talk about your game. You had no adjustment period coming from the Regionalliga 2 averaging 18,9ppg, 4,2rpg and 2,8apg. How content were you with your season?

I am not at all happy with my last year. To some people that is a great year with decent stats. Leading in 4 different categories and getting an Honorable mention. The league is good but I feel I could of dominated more. Now I know what this league is about and I have all summer to plot my revenge for that Honorable mention. So beware of what I do next year.

You had another very good season at a new level the Regionalliga. How do you feel did your leadership skills improve in the Regionalliga?

With each year I add to my career I work on my leadership skills. I am not the most experienced player but if I know something I will let it be known. I learned how to communicate with my teammates to get the best out of each of them. I take pride in leading by example. I put the work in and do all the things necessary to be a successful player. If the top guys on the team are pushing this kind of attitude the rest have to fall in line.

In the Regionalliga 2 you were moved to point guard because of injuries. How do you feel did your game in the Regionalliga benefit most from having that playmaking role two seasons ago?

Playing Point Guard is very difficult. You are forced to control so many aspects of the game. At first I did not know how to get everyone else involved while keeping a scoring mentality. With time and the help from my coach Dejan Kostic I learned the balance which made me a more complete player. It didn’t happen overnight but now I am very confident in my ability to lead a team as a Point Guard.

You have very high standards as a player and surely know on what things you can improve on, but how do you feel did your game develop further in the Regionalliga?

Each level brings requires more from you. This year I played against some stronger players. The league was very balanced so 1 loss could drop you from middle to last place. So there is little room for error. I take these experiences and pay attention to what I could improve on. I am constantly studying my game and looking for better ways to play.

Did you ever benefit from being able to practice with the Pro B or BBL team of Giessen? How did these work outs help you most?

I was able to sit in on a few BBL and participate in Pro B practices. It showed me the level needed to be successful in those leagues. I took notes of the workouts and took advice from the players. I know I can play at those levels. I am just patiently waiting my turn.

You had many very good games in the Regionalliga, but was your 33 point explosion in the 92-86 win over Mannheim your most memorable game?

The game against Mannheim was a great game scoring wise. Most people would say it was my best game this year but I do not think so. The game I am most impressed with was the game at home vs Fellbach. I played 25 mins had 21 points missed only 3 shots added on 6 assists 6 Rebounds and 3 steals. I was impressed with the fact of having a complete game in a great team win.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Regionalliga this season?

The best matchup I had this year was against Ricky Easterling. Ever since I started in Germany I have been compared to him because we have similar play styles, we are both lefties and around the same height. He has been a good friend/mentor to me during this journey. The game played was tough because we both knew what the other would want to do. It was my version of the first time Kobe and Mj matched up. I hit the game winner so I got the best of that matchup that day.
I am looking forward to more battles with him in the future.

What is the next step for you? One guy who had a similiar path like you is Elijah Allen who played two seasons with the Giessen Pointers before making the jump to the Pro B Lich and now has become a good Pro A player. Do you feel like pro B teams have you on the radar?

Along With Easterling. I looked to Elijah Allen for advice. He has helped me along the way. Our stories are very similar and I would like to get to that level and more in the future. As far as next season I do not know what will happen. I am waiting for a call to see where I will go next. I would love to play Pro B next year. All I know is where ever it is I will be ready.

You have played in Germany most of your career. Would you like to remain in Germany or could you imagine getting to know a new culture and style of play in Europe?

I enjoy playing in Germany It is like my second home. I am also open experiencing other cultures and playing in other countries. Either way is fine for me.

Ron Howard is a guy that you remain forever thankful for helping you get your first professional contract with Bensheim. How often do you think about having made the decision to join Howard Hoops when you had the opportunity and what may have happened had you not?

One of the best decisions I made was to trust in Ron Howard. He has been a true person with me since day 1. Anytime I need him he is there to answer. I often think back to that summer of 2016. I went to a bunch of combines and was losing hope. I finally decided to take one last shot and go to Ron’s tour and 4 years later we are here.

On what things will you continue to work on in the lab this summer as you prepare for that next basketball gig?

I will continue to work on my overall game. I would like to improve in every aspect. The biggest part to me is the mental. Everything else follows.

Do you feel like Luka Doncic could one day become one of the greatest Europeans to ever have played in the NBA?

Luka Doncic has a great game. He is a big guard who is skilled smart can shoot and defend. He has a long way to go before being named the greatest European player ever but if he continues to have years like this one. He will have a strong argument.

Kahwi Leonard had a great season with the Toronto Raptors. How do you rate him overall with the best players in the NBA? Some say he is the best at the moment?

Kawhi is having a great season and I am very impressed with his improvements. He is a great player but I still do not think he is on the same level as Kevin Durant. In my opinion he is the Most complete player and is impossible to guard.

What was the last movie that you saw?

The last movie I saw was The new Avengers. Great movie and I am a Die hard Marvel Fan. I will not spoil the movie and give details. All I can say is That I have all the infinity stones!!

Thanks Chris for the chat.