In my basketball relationship with Fraport Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwas, there is only one predicable thing where I always know what will happen when he approaches me in the Catacombs of the Fraport arena after a game and that is the standard phrase “servus” and after I have said congratulations on the win, he mutters thanks. Other than that he could easily form a Blues Brothers 2 combination with Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert not in necessarily having a gag show act at the local comedy club, but in their constant same mode during games in that they both display an expressionless demeanor off the court in which you mostly don´t know really what the outcome of the game was at first glance. The only difference between both men is that Herbert will most likely wear something black, while Perwas doesn´t and Herbert will most likely answer back during the standard tough loss or nice win, while Perwas might not answer back during a loss as he is most likely still somewhere in that deciding crunch time play in his thoughts that was the difference costing Frankfurt the win. In game one in Munich, it was Perwass having that seldom opportunity to coach the team while Gordon Herbert stayed in the hotel in Munich nursing a virus having to watch the Fraport Skyliners consistency phobia once again exhibit it´s ugly presence while his virus illness might have been temporally replaced with a splitting headache in the fourth quarter. For Perwas, he also showed a moment of weakness in the fourth quarter as it was obvious in which the game had gone as he showed one of those expressions where his cheeks and lips came together with a slight nod of the head that it seemed apparent that after a good fight, Frankfurt wasn´t caving in with a lack of effort or fight, but that the game was going it´s normal course as Frankfurt just couldn´t keep up with the first three quarters as fatigue was setting in, the inside presence of Johannes Voigtmann was absent as he had been injured shortly before halftime and German national player Heiko Schaffartzik did was he does best hitting ridiculous bombs from anywhere from downtown and FC Bayern Munich just had an offensive answer for every Frankfurt connected shot thus slowing down the opponents come back.

If one looks back at the first two games against FC Bayern Munich, this was the best played game of the Fraport Skyliners in terms of consistency as they played with FC Bayern Munich for 30 minutes while in the first game it was 20 minutes and in their only win this season in Frankfurt where they staged an impressive comeback in the fourth quarter as it was only a very potent 10 minutes where Frankfurt played well. If there was a cheeky journalist who might have asked Perwas after the loss in Munich in game one if he would of perfered to rather have had a similar game in performance from Frankfurt like in the massive comeback in Frankfurt a few weeks ago, the ex German national player Perwas most definitely would have answered with “I only prefer 40 minutes of consistent basketball”. When looking back at the game, there were many factors that cost Frankfurt the victory and if one really listed all these factors, one probably would have been surprised that the Fraport Skyliners were trailing only 54-53 after three quarters instead of 15 points where the game most likely have been in the books. In the first 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners defended well not great, but still very commendable as FC Bayern Munich is the best scoring team in the Beko BBL. Offensively they also played sound basketball as it was many guys that led the charge as their ball movement was sound and Frankfurt was able to bounce back during runs from FC Bayern Munich then making importnan buckets. Guys like Sean Armand showed his typical scoring in bunches ability while Canadian Aaron Doornekamp hit big three pointers and Mike Morrison was the only real bright spot on the boards. FC Bayern Munich on the other hand weren´t at their best on offense as they missed many easy shots especially a John Bryant who wasn´t necessarily defended that hard, but he still left shots close to the rim and 15 footers on the rim as they didn´t want to roll in. The biggest blow to the Fraport Skyliners was in the last minute of the second quarter as German national player Johannes Voigtmann stepped on a Munich player and most possibly tore his anterior cruciate ligament and never returned back into the game. In the second half his expression said it all on the sidelines as he was expressionless as he most likely was thinking why me? Whyan injury now in this crucial time of the season. Despite no Voigtmann and FC Bayern Munich controlling the offensive glass in the first half as if they owned a patent on it, the Fraport Skyliners played their best basketball of the game in the third quarter limiting FC Bayern Munich to their fewest quarter points with 15. The game was close as there were seven lead changes and Frankfurt was believing they could win this game. However the game of basketball has four quarters and not three as in the last quarter, the Fraport Skyliners had to accept reality as FC Bayern Munich shifted into high gear and just played the way they know how scoring 29 points and making the 83-72 result at the end not really explain the closeness of how the game was for the most part. Some of the key factors in the fourth quarter as to why FC Bayern Munich came to life again was simple. They disallowed Frankfurt to get off on a good start which they despertately needed and went on a 8-0 run to motor their self confidence. Heiko Schaffartzik stepped up making back to back three pointers and later on John Bryant also nailed a three pointer which has been a mainstay in his game for years. This put a damper in their self confidence of the Fraport Skyliners, but they never gave up as they continued to fight and claw back making shots, but just couldn´t get under an eight point deficit down the stretch. In the post game summary the absence of Johannes Voigtman really hurt Frankurt and their biggest menace on the night was their inability to clear the paint being able to secure the rebounds as FC Bayern Munich seemed to have the height and position on almost every missed shot. FC Bayern Munich ended the game shooting 42% from outside as that was only determined with a strong fourth quarter shooting wise as they did a heck of a job making key decisions from the parking lot where no one better to give the ball to than Heko Schaffartzik when one needs the big shots. Frankfurt shot a dismal 29% from outside as consistency was a big factor there. All in all FC Bayern Munich made better use of their individual qualities as their budget is four times greater than the Fraport Skyliners and that becomes a big factor in any game. Another huge factor was the continued downward curve in the play of Justin Cobbs in the last two months. It is no secret that his gas tank is running on empty after a long rookie season where in the last four years in the NCAA his season had ended pretty much when this inconsistent period started in Bonn at the beginning of March. Teams also seem to have his number as they know what he will do. The Frankfurt pick and role game has become nonexistent with Cobbs at the helm which limits his opportunities and more than not gives him the option to finish more himself which also isn´t working as well anymore. His outside shooting also has faltered as he is 7/32 in the last 11 games and his usual masterpiece pull jump up balance jumper also hasn´t fallen as he has been 32/77 in the last 11 games. For the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance to win this series, they need a potent Cobbs and that wasn´t the case in game one in Munich. Cobbs had an average day in the offensive stats with 11 points and seven assists, but when you add his five turnovers, that will change the grade from a C to a D. Taking care of the ball is the most important duty of a point guard, but in this 11 game span, the Los Angeles native has coughed up the ball five times in six of the 11 games. Cobbs needs to have consistent games for the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance of playing at least close to consistent ball over the 40 minutes. Game two now is only 72 hours away and even though this isn´t technically a do or die game, it is because if Frankfurt loses, FC Bayern Munich will most likely close out the series in Munich on Thursday. Hopefully Gordon Herbert will be healthy again for game two and maybe the best medicine for his team is to edit together the first three quarters of game one and the last quarter of the miraculous come back in the 76-73 win a few weeks ago in Frankfurt and keep showing his team nonstop until Tuesday what his team is capable of. If Frankfurt loses Tuesday and the series soon after, then Gordon Herbert and Klaus Perwas could really perform a Blues Brothers basketball act, because they then will have the time for it and could try their hand at basketball comedy even if though it won´t work, because that expressionless demeanor will be too depressing for anyone wanting to laugh.In my basketball relationship with Fraport Skyliners assistant coach Klaus Perwas, there is only one predicable thing where I always know what will happen when he approaches me in the Catacombs of the Fraport arena after a game and that is the standard phrase “servus” and after I have said congratulations on the win, he mutters thanks. Other than that he could easily form a Blues Brothers 2 combination with Fraport Skyliners head coach Gordon Herbert not in necessarily having a gag show act at the local comedy club, but in their constant same mode during games in that they both display an expressionless demeanor off the court in which you mostly don´t know really what the outcome of the game was at first glance. The only difference between both men is that Herbert will most likely wear something black, while Perwas doesn´t and Herbert will most likely answer back during the standard tough loss or nice win, while Perwas might not answer back during a loss as he is most likely still somewhere in that deciding crunch time play in his thoughts that was the difference costing Frankfurt the win. In game one in Munich, it was Perwass having that seldom opportunity to coach the team while Gordon Herbert stayed in the hotel in Munich nursing a virus having to watch the Fraport Skyliners consistency phobia once again exhibit it´s ugly presence while his virus illness might have been temporally replaced with a splitting headache in the fourth quarter. For Perwas, he also showed a moment of weakness in the fourth quarter as it was obvious in which the game had gone as he showed one of those expressions where his cheeks and lips came together with a slight nod of the head that it seemed apparent that after a good fight, Frankfurt wasn´t caving in with a lack of effort or fight, but that the game was going it´s normal course as Frankfurt just couldn´t keep up with the first three quarters as fatigue was setting in, the inside presence of Johannes Voigtmann was absent as he had been injured shortly before halftime and German national player Heiko Schaffartzik did was he does best hitting ridiculous bombs from anywhere from downtown and FC Bayern Munich just had an offensive answer for every Frankfurt connected shot thus slowing down the opponents come back. If one looks back at the first two games against FC Bayern Munich, this was the best played game of the Fraport Skyliners in terms of consistency as they played with FC Bayern Munich for 30 minutes while in the first game it was 20 minutes and in their only win this season in Frankfurt where they staged an impressive comeback in the fourth quarter as it was only a very potent 10 minutes where Frankfurt played well. If there was a cheeky journalist who might have asked Perwas after the loss in Munich in game one if he would of perfered to rather have had a similar game in performance from Frankfurt like in the massive comeback in Frankfurt a few weeks ago, the ex German national player Perwas most definitely would have answered with “I only prefer 40 minutes of consistent basketball”. When looking back at the game, there were many factors that cost Frankfurt the victory and if one really listed all these factors, one probably would have been surprised that the Fraport Skyliners were trailing only 54-53 after three quarters instead of 15 points where the game most likely have been in the books. In the first 30 minutes, the Fraport Skyliners defended well not great, but still very commendable as FC Bayern Munich is the best scoring team in the Beko BBL. Offensively they also played sound basketball as it was many guys that led the charge as their ball movement was sound and Frankfurt was able to bounce back during runs from FC Bayern Munich then making importnan buckets. Guys like Sean Armand showed his typical scoring in bunches ability while Canadian Aaron Doornekamp hit big three pointers and Mike Morrison was the only real bright spot on the boards. FC Bayern Munich on the other hand weren´t at their best on offense as they missed many easy shots especially a John Bryant who wasn´t necessarily defended that hard, but he still left shots close to the rim and 15 footers on the rim as they didn´t want to roll in. The biggest blow to the Fraport Skyliners was in the last minute of the second quarter as German national player Johannes Voigtmann stepped on a Munich player and most possibly tore his anterior cruciate ligament and never returned back into the game. In the second half his expression said it all on the sidelines as he was expressionless as he most likely was thinking why me? Whyan injury now in this crucial time of the season. Despite no Voigtmann and FC Bayern Munich controlling the offensive glass in the first half as if they owned a patent on it, the Fraport Skyliners played their best basketball of the game in the third quarter limiting FC Bayern Munich to their fewest quarter points with 15. The game was close as there were seven lead changes and Frankfurt was believing they could win this game. However the game of basketball has four quarters and not three as in the last quarter, the Fraport Skyliners had to accept reality as FC Bayern Munich shifted into high gear and just played the way they know how scoring 29 points and making the 83-72 result at the end not really explain the closeness of how the game was for the most part. Some of the key factors in the fourth quarter as to why FC Bayern Munich came to life again was simple. They disallowed Frankfurt to get off on a good start which they despertately needed and went on a 8-0 run to motor their self confidence. Heiko Schaffartzik stepped up making back to back three pointers and later on John Bryant also nailed a three pointer which has been a mainstay in his game for years. This put a damper in their self confidence of the Fraport Skyliners, but they never gave up as they continued to fight and claw back making shots, but just couldn´t get under an eight point deficit down the stretch. In the post game summary the absence of Johannes Voigtman really hurt Frankurt and their biggest menace on the night was their inability to clear the paint being able to secure the rebounds as FC Bayern Munich seemed to have the height and position on almost every missed shot. FC Bayern Munich ended the game shooting 42% from outside as that was only determined with a strong fourth quarter shooting wise as they did a heck of a job making key decisions from the parking lot where no one better to give the ball to than Heko Schaffartzik when one needs the big shots. Frankfurt shot a dismal 29% from outside as consistency was a big factor there. All in all FC Bayern Munich made better use of their individual qualities as their budget is four times greater than the Fraport Skyliners and that becomes a big factor in any game. Another huge factor was the continued downward curve in the play of Justin Cobbs in the last two months. It is no secret that his gas tank is running on empty after a long rookie season where in the last four years in the NCAA his season had ended pretty much when this inconsistent period started in Bonn at the beginning of March. Teams also seem to have his number as they know what he will do. The Frankfurt pick and role game has become nonexistent with Cobbs at the helm which limits his opportunities and more than not gives him the option to finish more himself which also isn´t working as well anymore. His outside shooting also has faltered as he is 7/32 in the last 11 games and his usual masterpiece pull jump up balance jumper also hasn´t fallen as he has been 32/77 in the last 11 games. For the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance to win this series, they need a potent Cobbs and that wasn´t the case in game one in Munich. Cobbs had an average day in the offensive stats with 11 points and seven assists, but when you add his five turnovers, that will change the grade from a C to a D. Taking care of the ball is the most important duty of a point guard, but in this 11 game span, the Los Angeles native has coughed up the ball five times in six of the 11 games. Cobbs needs to have consistent games for the Fraport Skyliners to have any chance of playing at least close to consistent ball over the 40 minutes. Game two now is only 72 hours away and even though this isn´t technically a do or die game, it is because if Frankfurt loses, FC Bayern Munich will most likely close out the series in Munich on Thursday. Hopefully Gordon Herbert will be healthy again for game two and maybe the best medicine for his team is to edit together the first three quarters of game one and the last quarter of the miraculous come back in the 76-73 win a few weeks ago in Frankfurt and keep showing his team nonstop until Tuesday what his team is capable of. If Frankfurt loses Tuesday and the series soon after, then Gordon Herbert and Klaus Perwas could really perform a Blues Brothers basketball act, because they then will have the time for it and could try their hand at basketball comedy even if though it won´t work, because that expressionless demeanor will be too depressing for anyone wanting to laugh.

Chris Randolph is a 27 year old 191cm guard that just finished his first professional season in Germany with the Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). He played college ball in the States with Washington Adventist University (USCAA) and S.Virginia (NAIA). He started his professional career with the Georgia Gwizzlies (ABA): 15games: 8.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.1apg, 2.2spg. He also played with the Chihuahua Vive League Tour (Chihuahua,Mexico). He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Chris thanks for talking to German Hoops Where are you now and what are you looking most forward to doing this summer?

Thank you for interviewing me really appreciate it, currently I am back home in Virginia and I am looking forward to working out. This is offseason so this is the time to get better and get ready for next season. Getting a lot of shots up, conditioning, and plenty of drills. Want to focus on getting faster and athleticism the most this offseason.

You played last season in Germany with two teams Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). How would you summarize your first season in Europe?

Yes and things just didn’t work out with the Mustangs so we parted ways but I appreciate them giving me the opportunity.

You started the season with Westfalen Mustangs (Germany-2.Regionalliga), in Jan.’15 signed at Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). What were the main reasons for having to change teams?

Yes absolutely I think the toughest part on the court was the style of play there, also getting used to the high expectations that European teams have for imports they don’t want any excuses just wins you are expected to be the man and set the example. Off the court adjusting to being places and nobody speaking English was challenging at first especially since German is such a tough language to learn. Also to it getting dark very fast in the winter time can be kind of depressing lol but it was a great experience.

You had played in Mexico before coming to Germany. You stated that your game is smoother in Germany. Is Europe a place you will concentrate on prolonging your professional career in the future?

Yes it’s a lot smoother I’ve learned to have more of an overall game and not just be known as a shooter and also my footwork has gotten a lot better since I have gotten a chance to work one on one with a few European teammates. Yes I think Europe will be a place I stay for the long run but I also wouldn’t mind going back and playing in Latin America again at some point. I actually would like to come back and play again in Germany in Regionaliga 1 or 2 if possible

Marler was on a good way of making the playoffs, but failed in the last month? What were the main reasons for the team not making the playoffs?

Yes we were I believe we just didn’t stay as hungry as we were at the beginning of the second half of the season. We had a very young team outside of us 3 imports so we had a lot of growing pains.

How much fun was it playing together with Kai King? What was the most important thing that you learned from the veteran?

It was a joy he is a hell of player one of the best guards I have ever played with and seen and an even better person. He is one of my best friends now. I consider him a brother we hung out every day while we were in Germany. I learned so much from him on and off the court just on how to be a better professional and change my game up. We battled every day in practice we were like Jordan and Pippen both of us hate to lose and we both talk a lot of trash so practices used to be really competitive when we would play against each other. I think the most important thing I learned from him was how this business is and how to stay consistent on the court and how to better take care of my body. We are hoping we will get to be a package deal somewhere and play with each other again for the upcoming season.

Your season stats at Marler were 7.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.2apg, 2.2spg. Were you content with your stats? What steps did you make as a player in Germany this season on the court?

I was content in the sense that the goal was to win a championship and we were winning and 1st place so that’s all that matters to me I’m a team player and love to win so coach asked me to be more of an overall player and do a little bit of everything which was a struggle at first but got easier as the season went on. I’m use to scoring a lot more but playing this way has really helped my game. So now I am able to effect the game in so many ways now.

You played college ball your last two seasons at S.Virginia (NAIA). How did head coach Bryan Pendelton get you prepared best for a professional basketball career?

He prepared me in the sense of the workouts we did in the pre season I have never worked that hard in my life even at my division 2 school prior to coming there so he prepared me to be able to go through any workouts and also how to appreciate the game.

As a rookie in 2012-2013 you stayed in the States and played for the Georgia Gwizzlies. What kind of experience in general was it playing semi pro ball? What positives did you take from this season?

I was so young at that point and used to getting spoiled in college with team stuff shoes, sweatsuits and it’s just not like that in the ABA. You are playing with grown men some guys go to work every day and have families. That’s where I first learned what it meant to be a professional and the ins and outs to the business with teams and agents. I had a great experience.

The best known teammate you had in your ABA season was ex Tennesse guard Ramar Smith. What things could you pick up form his game that season?

I didn’t get to play a lot of games with him but I learned just how to know when to let the game come to me and when to take over if need be.

In your second season you played for the Chihuahua Vive League Tour (Chihuahua,Mexico). How were you able to cope with the language barrier and style of play in general?

Yes I loved it in Mexico the fans were great and showed us a lot of love daily. I know some Spanish so it was a smooth transition for me as far as how they play they get up and down very fast pace.

What are your future plans? How excited are to get involved with the summer transfer process where finding a team is always an experience?

Future plans is to find a team between August and October. It’s always exciting and I love the recruiting process always have even when I was in high school with colleges. I have gotten 3 offers so far one in Germany,Spain, and in talks with Peru. More should come as the seasons are over and teams start recruiting between now and July. I’m excited though I’m hungry for a championship so I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next season.

How does a normal summer day workout look like for you on and off the court?

A normal workout day for me is getting shots up mid-day and lifting and then if my good friend Glen Dandrige who is a pro overseas also is back home then we get in the gym at nights and run and do drills. Other than that I work and I love to sleep lol.

Who will reach the NBA final this season and win it all?

Haha Cleveland no question I’m a big LeBron fan.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Goodfellas.

Thanks Chris for the chat.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn are celebrating their 20 year anniversary this season and recently fans were able to vote for their 20 legends and it is very difficult to believe that with all that vast talent that has put on a Bonn jersey over the last 20 years that the club has never won a title, but instead have been known as the German version of the NFL Buffalo Bills who only reached 4 Super Bowls in all, but never were able to utter the famous words after “I´m going to Disney Land which was first said in 1987 as New York Giants star quarterback Phil Simms had the honor of making this a standard phrase for Super Bowl winners. When you look at the Bonn legends over the years, guys like 1993 NCAA champion with North Carolina with TBB Trier head coach Henrik Roedl Derrick Phelps, sniper Hurl Beechum, 38 year old Rimantas Kaukenas who is still playing and won the Eurochallenge last season, old school style John Bowler who had his own way of scoring even if it hurt just watching him in the paint, German Alex King who went from Murat Didin´s doghouse to Alba Berlin captain and solid Euroleague player, ex NBA player Vincent Yarbrough that has those Steph Curry like piercing eyes, but had the misfortune of getting to know the Bonn seats more than the floor as he was injured so often, but gave his best when he was healthy, Chris Ensminger who was quietly proclaimed finished as a player in 2008 after he left Bamberg, but found a second life in Paderborn and then went on to continue his illustrious career and play four more years in Bonn and was second in rebounding in the BBL in the his late 30´s showing that he still had so much left in his gas tank or current Bonn sharp shooter Benas Veikalas who is the heart and soul of the team. All these amazing and skilled players, plus so many more have worn the Bonn jersey, but never been able to host a title in the air. Since coming into the BBL in 1996, the club has had a very strong run making the playoffs each season except for three and having the chance to win titles on many occasions, but always coming in second as they reached the cup final three times and five times second for the league title most recently in 2008 losing to Alba Berlin and 2009 to the EWE Baskets Oldenburg where they looked as good as the winner, but lost it in the last seconds in a hard fought five game series. There isn´t more that the Telekom Baskets Bonn can do than try try again each season. The good news this season is that they aren´t meeting Oldenburg who they lost two last season in a tough five game series as the 2015 cup winner Oldenburg seem to have their number in big games. This post season, the Telekom Baskets Bonn meet ratiopharm Ulm and can try try again to win that first title even if winning 9 games isn´t as easy as two in a cup top four, but in basketball anything is possible. After missing the Beko BBL playoffs the last time in 2011, Bonn has made it back four straight years and head coach Matthias Fischer has improved the team each season since coming in 2013 to a fifth place finish last season and a potent fourth place finish this season with a 23-11 record. The Telekom Baskets Bonn look back on a consistent BBL season having a six game, five game and two four game winning streaks. The biggest wins of the season was against the Brose Baskets Bamberg, FC Bayern Munich, Oldenburg and sweeping the always tough Artland Dragons. This season they had little problems with offensive firepower as they scored 80 plus points 20 times, but also knew how to give up many points giving up 80 points or more 19 times. In the Eurocup play they had a non-rewarding 4-6 record and three of the four wins were by not more than combines six points showing they had the nerves in crunch time, but also had some forgettable games like mustering only 48 points against Strassburg. Bonn has a solid 10 man rotation where no player averages more than 12 points a game, but the club relies heavily on their starting five for consistent production. The club is led by experienced 32 year old Lithuanian Tadas Klimavicius(12,8pp, 6,2rpg, 1,6apg) who is the work horse on offense. He scored in double figures in 23 BBL games including a 28 effort against Braunschweig coming mostly from the bench . Angelo Caloiaro(12,4ppg, 4,5rpg, 1,5apg) is playing his second season in Germany after a strong first season with MBC. After being the main focus in Weissenfels last season, the American had to adapt to a more talented scoring team and found his role quickly scoring in double figures 23 times. He is a hard working inside/out player that scored 26 points against Bremerhaven and Bayreuth. The heart and soul of the team is sharp shooter Benas Veikalas(11,oppg, 2,5rpg, 1,3apg) who has been with Bonn since 2011. Despite hitting never more than three three pointers a game nine times, he is shooting 40% from downtown and his leadership is irreplaceable. Ryan “Air” Brooks(10,5ppg, 3,4rpg, 2,0apg) is playing his second season with Bonn and is always dangerous on offense especially with his deadly mid distance shot. He had a lull in February and March not scoring in double figures in nine straight games, but finished strong scoring in double figures in the last four games including 20 points in the win against FC Bayern Munich. With Americans Eugene Lawrence(7,4ppg, 2,2rpg, 5,3apg) and Richard Mcconnell(8,8ppg, 2,2rpg, 3,9apg) the club may have the best point guard duo in the league. The team has the perfect mix between the physical bull like penetrator of Lawrence who can always draw a foul or find the open man to the strong shooting Mcconnell who is just as unselfish as he finds his teammates at ease. The team rounds out the roster with three experienced Germans with Dirk Madrich(8,3ppg, 3,9rpg), Andrej Mangold(3,8ppg, 2,2rpg, 21apg), Steve Wachalski(6,9ppg, 2,4rpg) and youngster Florian Koch(2,9ppg). Bonn is the 12^th professional teamfor Madrich and the physical big man has played in countries like Greece and France and his career seemed over in 2011 after he moved from BBL team Giessen to Pro B team Vechta. However his career was recharged under Pat Elze and he had a super season in the BBL last season and has been an important role player for Bonn showing he can play at the BBL level. Mangold is that trusty point guard who lives from his speed, penetration and defense while Wachalski is having best season at 31 years old. After six years in the Regionaliga and two in the Pro B, he finally made the jump to the BBL in 2010 with Bayreuth. He toiled two seasons in the Pro A with MBC, but got the trust from Fischer last season being a spark plug form the bench, but has an even more important role this season as he has scored in double figures seven times and who could forget his 26 point outburst against TBB Trier where he hit eight three pointers. Ratiopharm Ulm returned back to the German BBL in 2006 and have matured well into a top team in the league even if they have a type of final trend brewing like Bonn has with two cup finals in 2013 and 2014 and a league final in 2012. Mike Taylor got ratiopharm Ulm going in a positive direction and Thorsten Leibenath has continued to bring success to the team since arriving in 2011. After finishing second and third and sixth last season, the team had a solid fifth place finish this season with a record of 21-13. Ratiopharm Ulm beat the teams that they needed to and their biggest wins were sweeping the Artland Dragons and Telekom Baskets Bonn, but were unable to defeat any on the big three teams. They have the deepest roster after the big three and really could beat any one on a good day with their destructive offensive arsenal. Their best stint during the season was a five and six game winning streak. They scored 80 points or more 24 times, but like Bonn had even more difficulty keeping the opponent below 80 points as they gave up 80 points or more 21 times. The team had six guys averaging double figures in scoring showing that they can find many ways to score. The leading scorer is German national player Per Guenter(13,4ppg, 1,6rpg, 4,9apg) who recently signed an extension to remain in Ulm. Guenther is the best German point guard playing in the BBL as he has become such a complete player scoring in double figures 23 times and being a scorer if needed in crunch time and is the teams best three point shooter at the moment. Tim Olhbrecht(13,0ppg, 5,5rpg) is back in the BBL after a two year stay in the States that brought him 3 NBA games for the memories. He has become a consistent player in the BBL having scored in double figures 24 times and registering 4 double doubles. Will Clyburn(12,9ppg, 7,7rpg, 1,9apg) belonged to the most improved players in the league , leads the team in rebounding, steals, third in scoring and third in assists. He scored in double figures in 23 games and had a masterful 28 points against Ludwigsburg. He is the teams MVP this season. Greek Ian Vougioukas(11,4ppg, 2,9rpg) brought his 62 Euroleague experience in March and could really make this series a depth factor down low. Slovenian Jaka Klobucar(11,3ppg, 2,7rpg, 3,2apg) has been most valuable with his versatility and added scoring punch from the bench. Brion Rush(10,5ppg, 2,1rpg, 1,9apg) came in February and is another talented guard that gave immense support with his scoring in wins against Artland and BG Goettingen and is a pest on defense. Marten Leunen(7,7ppg, 3,7rpg, 1,7apg) is the glue that keeps the team together as the 2008 Houston Rocket NBA draft pick played the last five years in the Italian Serie A and shines with his experience, team play and is the teams current best three point shooter. Philipp Schwethelm(5,4ppg, 2,5rpg) already played his first BBL game at age 16 with Cologne and is still only 26 and is known for his aggressive defense, but can also be very effective as he showed scoring 22 points against the Fraport Skyliners with five three pointers. Isaiah Philmore(3,7ppg, 1,9rpg) is a rookie who doesn´t get many minutes, but plays effective for his 10 minutes per game and is another big body down below. Adam Hess(2,4ppg, 1,4rpg) is 34 and can still hit the three pointer and had strong games against his ex team Phoenix Hagen with 16 points and 12 against Crailsheim, but his worth is more his experience and vocal leadership as he gets limited minutes. Rookie Deonte Burton(1,8ppg) who had a stellar career at Nevada(NCAA) and played NBA Summer league with the Washington Wizards in 2014 has been lost in the roster mix with little playing time, but the experience he got playing with top players should help him with his career in Europe should he remain. He is another big scoring threat waiting to get on the floor. This will be a very exciting series and will go five games. When looking at the stats, there isn´t much that separates both teams as Bonn has the upper hand in scoring points per game 84-83, field goal percentage 48%-46% and assists 18-15 while ratiopharm Ulm have the slight edge in three point shooting 37%-35%, rebounding 34-33, turnovers 12-13. Ratiopharm Ulm go into the series having won their last meeting in Bonn 93-87 on the last game day securing this series instead of having to face FC Bayern Munich had they lost there. Ulm also won the other meeting at home 82-77. Ratiopharm Ulm obviously showed that in both games that they had the better nerves in crunch time. It is difficult to name one top duel of the series as there are so many to name, but Will Clyburn against whomever Bonn puts up against him as this is a huge mismatch in favor of Ulm as they already have a huge front court with Olhbrecht and Leunen, plus the other beasts from the bench with Philmore and Vougioukas. The point guard position is another big duel as Guenther and Lawrence make both teams go as both seem to rarely have a day off. ratiopharm Ulm won the rebounding duel in both games and have the big size and physicality edge in the paint as well as the experience and depth from the bench. Bonn will need to play transition as much as possible and rely on their outside shooting. Both are offensive power houses , but all in all defense will decide this series if a team finally decides to play defense.

This season in German basketball there have been many things that went accordingly to plan and what many probably predicted like with the Crailsheim Merlins moving back to the second division, Ludwigsburg monster Jon Brockman winning the rebound trophy with the best per game average, the s.Oliver baskets Wurzburg returning back to the BBL, Fraport Skyliner Johannes Voigtmann following in the footsteps of teammate Danilo Barthel and winning the league´s most improved player award as the Skyliner coaching staff continues to believe in their youth and Braunschwieg forward Derrick Allen still not slowing down as the 34 year old can still ballerina to points and rebounds inside. However on November 19^th on a cold night around 21:15, the Fraport Skyliners had just experienced a bitter 72-70 buzzer beater loss in the Eurochallenge to Swedish team Boras in a foreign gym in Russelsheim only 23 kilometers away from their real living room Fraport arena and were 1-2 in the international competition and had a bleak 2-7 record in the Beko BBL and were living in the league cellar with little support as the club was undergoing a nasty injury bug as they had a walked wounded list as long as the weekly grocery list of Shaq. You never know exactly how head coach Gordon Herbert is feeling since his back problems is no secret, but one thing is for sure just how painful this period was was impossible to read on his face as he hides it as perfectly as Rajon Rondo tries his jump shot, but can´t when he has to attempt it. If anyone had predicted then on November 19^th that the Fraport Skyliners would reach the Eurochallenge final four and finish the BBL season in sixth place and reach the playoffs, one would have declared that person for mentally insane and given that perplexed look. However the team got many guys back healthy, turned the season around thanks to the break out rookie season of Justin Cobbs and Johannes Voigtmann who became a house hold name in Europe thanks to his consistent and potent play on the court especially in the Eurochallenge. With the Fraport Skyliners accomplishing so much this season despite having low odds five months ago, now it´s time for me to make the boldest of predictions and possibly most insane of the Fraport Skyliners somehow clawing, fighting and pushing themselves by FC Bayern Munich. The Fraport Skyliners played superb in three of the eight quarters this season against Germany´s most famous team and won one game and led at halftime of the other game in Munich by double digits before caving in in the third quarter. I am probably the only one to make this prediction, but someone has to do it even if the chances on paper for the Fraport Skyliners to get to the semi-finals is about as probable as Frankfurt Skyliner Mike Morrison ever being allowed to take a three pointer. The Fraport Skyliners finished the regular season in sixth place with a record of 20-14. After that horrendous start, they regrouped and had a 18-7 record. Had they started better, they may have been able to have competed with the Telekom Baskets Bonn for fourth place. They finished off the BBL season strong winning six of their last seven games despite losing both games at the Eurochallenge Final 4 in Turkey. Their biggest staple is their defense where they allowed 70 points or less 10 times. As stated so often this season, the turning point of the season came in November as the club had to react to the injury of starting point guard Richard Williams by bringing in rookie Justin Cobbs who had started the season with VEF Riga in Latvia, but didn´t find a rhythm and was scooped up by Frankfurt. Cobbs came and the rest is history as he led the team to a 17-6 record in the BBL and 10-2 record in the Eurochallenge which equates to a 27-8 record. Cobbs(14,1ppg, 2,6rpg, 4,5apg) brought a high basketball IQ with him and used his cleverness and calmness in crunch time situations more often than not to help the team to victory most importantly against Enisey Krasnoyarsk where he led a second half charge from 19 down to win 85-80 and get to the Eurochallenge Final 4. The club also got solid production form others like rookie Sean Armand(13,1ppg, 3,0rpg, 2,4apg). He proved to be a scoring threat in so many games scoring in double figures in 23 BBL games and 11 Eurochallenge games. His 22 points against FC Bayern Munich helped lead the charge to the win in the fourth quarter and his 31 points against Avtodor and 23 points against Enisey Krasnoyarsk despite being loses showed that he can score with the best of them at an international level. Third year man Johannes Voigtmann(12,5ppg, 6,0rpg, 2,5apg) had his break out year. When do you ever see a center be so high in assists as he was third on the team? In the Eurochallenge he cleaned up the Eurobasket awards as he was the top center in the competition averaging 16,0ppg, 7,2rpg and 1,8apg. He scored in double figures in 13 of 15 games and had five double doubles. His 26 points against Enisey Krasnoyarsk sealed the ticket to the Eurochallenge Final 4. Quantez Robertson(11,0ppg, 4,4rpg, 3,2apg) is playing his sixth professional season with Frankfurt and will be playing his third playoffs after reaching a final and semi early in his career. He was so often an extra point guard this season, best defender on the team and just does so much that isn´t seen on the stat sheet. Danilo Barthel(9,0ppg, 5,2rpg, 1,6apg) was having a productive season until he got injured in mid January which cost him two months to sit out. He was a solid performer in the Eurochallenge as well scoring in double figures in seven of nine games He was the teams best three point shooter at 42%. His return has been stalled a bit by more limited minutes as he is still finding his way back into a more developed rotation. The rotation is further aided by three strong role players in Jacob Burtschi(7,8ppg, 3,6rpg, 1,8apg) who came for the injured Barthel as is the ultimate warrior on the court that does everything from bringing leadership, Boris Becker diving qualities or nailing 10 three pointers in a game, Aaron Doornekamp(A6,8ppg, 4,1rpg, 1m5apg) has had an up and down season, but took on much responsibility the last few months bringing more support in the scoring department, but also being a force down low and Mike Morrison(7,1ppg, 3,3rpg) who is the bruiser down low and half his points this season are on dunks. He is an important presence in the paint especially on defense and is the perfect back up to Voigtmann. The club also has big man Johannes Richter that owned the Baaken Bears taking away their much beloved honey in both games leading the team to a big 74-64 win at home as he had 15 points. The team also brought back Max Merz who is taking a semester in Australia, but has a vacation break Kevin Bright, Mikko Koivisto and Stefan Ilzhoefer. FC Bayern Munich finished the season in third place as they had a record of 26-8 as they weren´t as dominating as last season as this season they had bitter and hard to believe loses against TBB Trier and BG Goettingen where they only mustered 59 points. They had a disappointing 2-8 record in the Euroleague and unsatisfying 5-3 record in Eurocup. Despite not having that dominant American point guard like in recent years with Tyrese Rice or Malcom Delaney their offense was their biggest strength as they scored 80 or more points 26 times and had NBA 100 plus type scores nine times including mastering 124 points against Phoenix Hagen.. They are also a strong defensive team when they want to be as they allowed 70 points or less 11 times, but then again allowing the Telekom Baskets Bonn get 107 points or BG Goettingen 95 points. FC Bayern Munich without a doubt have the deepest roster in the league and one would want almost each guy on your team as most would be starters on any other team in the league. The star of the team is John Bryant(13,5ppg, 7,9rpg) who played three seasons with ratiopharm Ulm and is the best center in the league as he is so difficult to stop, but the most valuable player on the team is Serb Nihad Djedovic(15,0ppg, 3,5rpg, 2,6apg) who is a high energy player that is so versatile that just does all on the court scoring in double figures in 19 of 24 games. After missing two months, he came back strong in April as if he had never been away. Head coach Svetislav Pesic has had his luck with picking the right Serb´s as Dusko Savanovic(11,6ppg, 4,6rpg, 2,1apg) was the hidden MVP as he is also a very mobile and versatile big man who is unselfish and belonged to the team´s best performers in the Euroleague. The guy with the biggest heart Bryce Taylor(9,5ppg, 3,1rpg, 1,3apg) was the team best three point shooter and as captain his team play was never missing. He came back slow from injury, but started going in February. Some just come and pay admission to see Anon Gavel(8,4ppg, 2,1rpg, 4,0apg) launch his line drive shots led the team in assists and can always haunt you with his bombs from outside. With Bryant taking a rest an opponent gets hit with the next bruiser with Vladimir Stimac(8,1ppg, 5,4rpg). There is nothing fancy about his game, but he gets the job done as Bonn witnessed as he poured in 19 points. The Serb connection continues with 2014 NBA draft pick of the Philadelphia 76ers with point guard Vasilije Misic87,6ppg, 2,1rpg, 3,7apg) who is like an energizer bunny and is just a pest to deal with from the bench. Just when you thought that that was the roster, you still have six Germans on the team. Heiko Schaffartzik(6,9ppg, 1,6rpg, 3,4apg) started only seven games, but was the teams second best three point shooter at 41% and can scare anyone with his focused look on the court at all times. Robin Benzing(6,5ppg, 2,2rpg, 1,3apg) is playing his fourth season in Munich, but his scoring stats have fallen the last three seasons. His scoring average obviously will suffer on a team like Munich, but he is always good for some unexpected big plays. Jan Jagla(5,3ppg, 2,8rpg)still going strong at 33 and is always effective in the minutes that he gets. Paul Zipser(4,9ppg, 2,4rpg) is a guy that needs to fight for his minutes, but showed what he can do scoring 20 against Tuebingen and 13 against Valencia in the Eurocup. Yassin Idbihi(3,5ppg, 2,0rpg) can always give support from the bench with points and rebounds, but this season is more a cheerleader. Most of the German basketball population will go with a 3-0 or 3-1 FC Bayern Munich win against the Fraport Skyliners so why am I doing the daring crazy 3-2 for the Fraport Skyliners? Well I love the underdog and just believe that the Fraport Skyliners have the ability to beat FC Bayern Munich even if it seems more unrealistic than anything in a five game series where the bench is the x factor. The question is how often can the Fraport Skyliners play consistent and strong for 40 minutes or near to it in a five game series against this Bavarian powerhouse? So far in the two games this season they showed up for only 30 minutes. They played a fierce first half in Munich early in the season leading 48-34 at halftime, but collapsed in the second half giving up a 14-0 run to start the third quarter losing 80-73 and in the return game stunk up the Fraport arena in the first 30 minutes being down 63-48 where there seemed to be no hope, but made a massive comeback in the fourth scoring 28 points and winning 76-73. FC Bayern Munich lead in almost every vital team statistical category this season scoring points 89-77, rebounds 38-34, field goal percentage 48-45, and turnovers 14-10, only with three point shooting does Franfurt have the edge 36%-35%. FC Bayern Munich also have the overwhelming bench edge. From the perspective of the Fraport Skyliners, in a series like this one can´t preach too much the statistical edge that the opponent has, but concentrate on the mental side and motivation something head coach Gordon Herbert can do. There is so much x and o´s in the game of basketball, but at the end of the day effort is a huge factor as Frankfurt showed in the fourth quarter of their last win. The other big factor will be playing up to their other strength of team basketball. They didn´t always show it this season, but principally Frankfurt is a team that focuses on team something that head coach Gordon Herbert has preached all season long. Sharing the ball making the extra pass on offense and on defense helping, helping and helping until the paint area looks worn out, clogging the lane and just trusting Quantez Robertson on the court with his leadership. FC Bayern Munich obviously has the experience factor and with Frankfurt the youth of Cobbs and Armand might just not be ready to make heroic after heroic feat as the first seems to have reached his limit as a rookie as his consistency has been lacking in the last weeks as fatigue and scouting from the opponent have caught up with him. The leadership and on court play of Aaron Doornekamp and Jacob Burtschi will be key for the younger players as they play their first BBL playoffs and will be as motivated as a Tez is every game. Of course FC Bayern Munich will remember their disaster from their last game in Frankfurt. The Fraport Skyliners need to steal game one in order to make this a long series. It is no secret that the Fraport Skyliners are an annoying team that won´t be a desired opponent for many teams and despite Gordon Herbert saying recently, he hasn´t seen the team develop since a late March training camp in Mallorca, it is May now, it’s playoff time and the season really starts now. Reaching the Eurochallenge final 4 may have been a big achievement this season, but the Fraport Skyliners won´t go out without a big fight against FC Bayern Munich and also need some unexpected help from their opponent not always playing up to their standards. This prediction may feel absurd for all, but Gordon Herbert has built a special squad this season and one thing is for sure, if there are any Skyliner fans that catch Gordon Herbert after game five in Munich approaching the team bus at the end having missed the game because of having lost track of time in a local Brauhaus, at least they won´t be disappointed at first glance of the Canadian, because win or lose with his usual expressionless look one can still dream at that moment that the most unlikely still did happen until the bitter truth is most probably revealed.

Kai King is a 29 year old 182cm point guard from Rialto, California that just completed the season with Marler BC (Germany-Oberliga). He started his basketball career in 2005 with the Venice basketball league and played a few seasons with the Riverside Rainmakers (ABA). He then went to Africa in 2011 and played two seasons with Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1). In the 2012-2013 season he played for Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1)15.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 5.0apg, 1.0spg, then moved to ART Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) 10 games: 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. IN the 2013-2014 season he played for the Bobcats Basketball Club (Mexico-Oaxaca, starting five): 25.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. He recently spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

Kai thanks for talking to German Hoops. The first thing I notice is your name which is a German name, but you are American. How did you get this name?

My mother gave me the name, but actually she chose the name for its Asian meaning and not its German one. Kai is not only a popular name in Germany, but it is also popular in Asia, Finland, it also has roots in Greece, Basque country in Spain, Cornish, Estonian Scottish, to name a few there are lots of different origins for my name not only in Germany.

You are playing currently in Germany for Oberliga team Marlor BC that has aspirations of moving up to the German Regionaliga. How did it come about that you landed here? You played for RT Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) two seasons ago.

I was on the arts team, but had issues and had to return home.  Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to lace it up like I had originally hoped. I landed the Oberliga job because the team in Kosovo was not doing what they had initially specified.  I was playing for BKP Kastrioti but things didn’t work out as I had planned, so I came to Germany to play in the Oberliga after things fell through in Kosovo.

The team is currently in second place. How good are the chances of the club moving up to the German Regionaliga 2?

Our chances are very high, we have an opportunity to truly make some noise and move up into the Regionalliga 2 ranks. We just have to finish this second half of the season.  Injuries to key players have slowed us down a bit, but we are all now healthy.  We have a new addition to the team Chris Randolph ( D2 Washington Adventist ), he should help our team out a great deal with his defense, leadership and scoring. If we can continue to be healthy, keep our eyes on the prize and stay focused then I think Regionalliga 2 will be an obtainable task.

How do you handle your ego on a daily basis when you have to play in the Oberliga and can´t display your talent at a higher level?

Its a opportunity, a blessing.  No matter what league it is, what country it is.  I am blessed to get an opportunity to put my shoes on, put my jersey on and play the game that I love. Yes I think I have the talents to play on a higher level, I have the confidence in myself and the aspirations to play. If God wants it to happen it will.  Right now I am enjoying Marler.  I am enjoying being around my teammates and seeing the sights and sounds that Germany has to offer. My ego is fine, and I know that this opportunity can easily be taken from me at any time. I am happy and will continue to process no matter what country I am in.

Your teammate is American Dennis Mims who has played in Italy and for top Turkish team Besiktas Istanbul. Why does a 34 year old still need to play basketball for a sixth division German team? I can imagine it can´t be for any other reason than just total love of the game?

If you love something you’ll do your best no matter what.  I will continue loving it and enjoying it. Dennis, Chris and myself aren’t the same age, but we have a drive and passion for this game. Yes he is 34 but he is still athletic, still driven and motivated and despite him being long in the tooth he still can lace it up with anyone.  Age is not a problem. Its truly a blessing to play with a player of his stature and caliber. I learn something new from him each time I play with him and each time I sit down to talk with him. He has a love for the game, a passion for basketball, and he is also here furthering his education.  I look to him for a number of things.  He is a mentor on and off the court and I am thankful for guys like that whom can help out guys like myself.

You are a scoring point guard, but what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

My toughness, I think its something that is unnoticed especially coming from California. The misconception is that guys from Cali are soft, that we wear sandals all day, that we surf, that we ride skateboards.  That our play on the court is just like the weather nice, manageable, easy going. That is a huge misconception, there is a dog in me.  Ill mix it up with anyone, I’ll run through a wall, I’ll get dirty and do whatever is necessary of course. As long if its in the confines of the rules. I am tough, yes I am from Cali, yes we have nice weather, yes there is a Hollywood sign and movies stars all around. However I am tough.   Ill guard a center, Ill guard a power forward, Ill do whatever I have to win.

You are 29 year old and in your prime. What goals do you still have as a basketball player?

I want to continue playing ball.  I want to continue helping teams win, continue helping players develop and grow as players and also as people. My team requires that we give back to the community, so on certain days, we will coach the kids and help them develop as players and as people. I want to continue climbing through the ranks and showing people that I can indeed play, but I also want to help others and motivate them through this game of basketball. I have many goals and aspirations on and off the court, this game has brought me a lot of things and I am grateful for it. 

Marl is about 30 kilometers away from Recklinghausen who have a Pro B team. Do you ever catch any of their games. How confident are you that you could keep up with these guys or even players in higher leagues in Germany?

Yes of course, I saw them play last week.  I have also seen the ETB Essen team play and also the Hertern Lions and they are all great players in their own right. I am just confident in myself and the abilities that God has given me. I can keep up with them.  I just need a chance, an opportunity to show them that I can indeed meet the challenge. Mexico was wonderful.  Mexico was a beautiful country and the people are passionate about their sports. The problem is that unless you are in America, Europe, Australia, China.  Then you will always have contract issues and disputes.  Problems with management arise because they are not Fiba certified leagues. I was 

Last season you played for Bobcats Basketball Club (Mexico-Oaxaca) What kind of experience was that for you? Besides having the contract issues how was your stay there on and off the court?

I was excited to get another opportunity to play in a Fiba sanctioned league where I do not have to worry about the league going under.  Mexico was great, the weather was like California, the basketball and the fans were an absolute pleasure.  However the uncertainty and inconsistencies of the league was what presented issues for me and my family. If those issues were okay then yes I would have loved staying there.

Two years ago you played for ART Duesseldorf (Germany-2.Regionalliga) playing 10 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 7.0apg. After having a strong season in the German Regionaliga 2 did you expect some offers from Regionaliga or PRO B teams?

 

I wasn’t there the whole time.  I got a few games under my belt but had to leave for personal reasons. For the time I was in effect there.  It was great playing in Europe.  Playing for a pro team, playing against guys who in their own right have talents and can hold their own was great. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to stay there the entire time and had to go back to the United States. Hopefully a full season in Oberliga will garner some attention from other teams next season. However I am focused on Marler BC.  I am focused on helping them accomplish reaching Regional 2. If we do what we have to do on the court then it will be wonderful.  I like the coach, the players. We have a family here.  Thats what we preach before games, Marler BC, were family here.  Cliche I know but I’m comfortable where I am and leaving would not sit well with me one bit.

How much fun was it playing for head coach Robert Shepherd who like you was a point guard as a player and played at Arkansas(NCAA). What could you pick up from him on and off the court?

It was an absolute pleasure, I enjoyed every minute that was given to me. And even though it was short lived, playing for him was an absolute dream. What he sees, how he approaches the game, what he thinks and how he prepared us as a team spoke volumes. It was evident to me the very first day I was there when I spoke with him. He is definitely a first rate coach and a first rate individual. It was an absolute pleasure being there and I learned a number of things from him. How to be a pro, how to prepare myself both on and off the court. How to keep things in the proper perspective and mind frame.  As players we can get caught up in the wrong things. Feel that we should be treated a certain way and that often plays on our minds in decisions we make and decisions we don’t. He just showed me that this is a unique opportunity, that its a blessing and that in any moment it can be taken away. I owe him for that, I speak with him regularly and we remain friends to this day. I learned a lot from him and he is a great guy.

You played two seasons for Six Stars (Eqatorial Guinea-D1). What kind of experience was this? Sometimes players will stay many years in one country. Was this not an option for you since you would have been able to keep playing and be paid without having to worry about finding a new team?

Its a unique experience, people back home were a bit apprehensive towards the idea of me going to play basketball in Africa. I wont lie, even I was a little reticent on going myself. But I had a talk with my family and friends and also the man above and decided that this was a good thing for me. And that no matter what I wouldn’t be given a situation I couldn’t handle. Sure enough it was all love when I arrived, the people welcomed me with open arms. The league was very tough and competitive, having both great players from the African countries, Senegal, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Gabon, The Congo to name a few. There were also people there from the United States and also from Spain.  Since Equatorial Guinea was once a colony of Spain. It was a unique experience, unfortunately I was unable to return because the team had financial issues and couldn’t keep the Six Stars team going. I would have loved to play there.  Love to have seen my friends that I met in my time there, but unfortunately money issues with the team didn’t allow me that opportunity again.

You had a workout at the Bakersfield Jam Free Agent (NBA Camp Tryout): 10ppg, 5rpg, 4apg, 2spg, FGP: 45%, 3Pts: 38%, FT: 80%. This was the perfect stage for you to showcase your abilities. Did you ever get any interest from D-league teams?

Yes I actually did, but I always has dreams and aspirations to play abroad.  I did fairly well at the tryout and was told that I could play in the D League if I focused and devoted myself to the process of being a D League Pro. That was all I needed to hear.  Hearing that fueled my fire, and gave me the confidence that I needed to play overseas. It was from that tryout that I realized that I could play with just about anybody in the world. That D League tryout changed my life in many ways and it was the starting point.  The spring board that has gotten me where I am today. I am thankful that I drove four hours from my home, no sleep, getting right out of work to make the trip. If I hadn’t done that, who knows where I would be. I certainly wouldn’t have been playing basketball thats for sure.

You were a Venice Basketball Pro Am League Champion in 07, 08, 09, 10, 11. Which title was your sweetest?

Each one of them is sweet, each one is unique and different.  Its just a honor to play with guys that you grew up with. Also with guys in the area that you emulated and idolized. It was great going out there, and I had fun each and every time I went out there. So its really hard to narrow it down to just one title.  Each was sweet, each was unique, each was significant and important in their own way.

Could you ever imagine making a living in Europe after your playing days or will you go home again?

Absolutely, during the break here, I was able to travel to Italy. Yes you read it right Italy!  I was able to visit Venice, Rome and a nice beach city known as Porto San Giorgio. It was amazing to see Venice and the Gondolas.  To see all the beautiful churches and architecture in the city. Then to travel to Rome and see the Coliseum, the Vatican, and all of the many beautiful sights and sounds of Roma. To eat the pizza, to taste the Gelato, man it was an amazing trip. So when you ask this question, could I make a living in Europe I say. Absolutely!

What have you learned to appreciate the most in Germany since you have been here?

I appreciate the game of basketball, I appreciate friendship and family, because, when you are out here by yourself. You build bonds with people that may last for the rest of your life. I have learned to appreciate where basketball has taken me and I’ve learned that family and friends make it all the more while

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was Despicable me 2.

Thanks Kai for the chat.

It really doesn´t matter where Ludwigsburg head coach John Patrick has been, if it was in Japan with Toyota Alvark, with BG Goettingen or the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, he was always able to build winning teams and with the case of BG Goettingen make successful teams out of low budgets and sending unknown rookie players on to bigger and better teams after letting them develop in Goettingen. The only thing missing from the Resume of the American is getting that golden opportunity one day to coach a top team in Germany. Patrick is now in his second full season with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg and most likely has had the best budget to work with the last two seasons as he has brought that special NBA flair to the small southern German town with guys like John Stockton son Michael, versatile Coby Karl, 2015 top BBL scorer DJ Kennedy or the bearded beast 2015 BBL top rebounder Jon Brockman. Especially in the last few years, Patrick has had his experience with annoying top teams here and there as with the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg kicked out an arrogant Alba Berlin in 2012 to reach the semi-finals where ex Beko BBL MVP Dashaun Wood was given a clinic by ex Northern Iowa bull dog John Little as he played the offensive series of his life or last season as Patrick took a solid team against Germany´s most famous team FC Bayern Munich who surely had their best team ever and fought and clawed, but lost in four games. Even if they lost by a total combined point total of 83 points, this experience made FC Bayern Munich stronger as they had a few more unappetizing wars with Oldenburg needing five games to advance to the final and four games to win the 2014 BBL title against Alba Berlin. The opportunity to continue to annoy top teams and even or upset continues this season as Ludwigsburg have a best of five series against 6 time Beko BBL champion Brose Baskets Bamberg that promises to be a hard fought series as both teams split the season series as games were decided by only 16 points. Win or lose, one thing is for certain, John Patrick will surely get the best advice on trying out new Italian dishes as Bamberg head coach Andrea Trinchieri could be a premium cuisine tour guide for the American if he wished for it.

After toiling around in no mans land in the BBL standings the last years, it wasn´t until the arrival of the fireman John Patrick in January 2013 where he saved the team from moving down and then prompt in his first full season finally led the club back to the playoffs with an eighth place finish and did again this season. The club went into the season with a fine roster, but underachieved in the first few months and finally put it together shortly before the new year starting a winning streak and winning six of seven games. With a month to go in the season, they were involved in an intense fight with 4-5 other teams to catch that last playoff spot and did finishing with class winning three of their last four including games against direct competitors Braunschweig and BG Goettingen on the last game day. Their biggest wins of the season were against Bamberg, Alba Berlin and the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. The team packed with scoring power and top league scorer DJ Kennedy weren´t always able to convince all with their talent with consistent scoring power as they scored 80 or more points 16 times. They had some very good phases defending, but weren´t always able to be consistent as they relinquished 80 points or more 16 times. They had some top defensive showing keeping Alba Berlin to 55 points and MBC to 53 points. The club is led by American DJ Kennedy(18,0ppg, 6,1rpg, 3,0apg) who came in December, but needed no time to adjust as he scored in double figures in 18 of 23 games and scored 20 or more points 11 times. His versatility as a swing man is priceless as he was second in team rebounding and second in assists. American Kerron Johnson(14,4ppg, 2,7rpg, 3,9apg) also made a good adjustment coming from the lower league Australia NBL and took up much of the scoring bulk before Kennedy came on board, but also shone with his versatility. The BBL knew already on the first game day that he had game as he scored 38 points in 37 minutes against Bonn. Ex NBA player Jon Brockman(12,2ppg, 9,6rpg, 1,4apg) who played a total of 150 NBA games for the Bucks and Kings was an unstoppable beast in the paint registering 12 double double and in the last game where it counted most left a lasting memory for BG Goettingen as he powered his team into the playoffs with 22 points and 15 boards. Shawn Huff(10,8ppg, 3,8rpg) might be known as being a Finish defensive specialist, but his offense has always been exceptional. He was the teams best three point shooter and had his highest three point percentage as a professional this season He scored in double figures 20 times including a 23 point effort against BG Goettingen. Michael Stockton(9,0ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,6apg) is playing his second season with Ludwigsburg and his stats may be down from last season, but he remains a very controlled point guard that got really hot in the last two games netting 26 points against Artland and 21 points against BG Goettingen. Veteran Adam Waleskowski(7,3ppg, 3,4rpg, 1,4apg) is playing his 10^th professional season and second with Ludwigsburg and brings that strong inside out game each night. He scored in double figures 13 times including a potent 11 point 14 rebound game against ratiopharm Ulm. John Little(6,9ppg, 2,5rpg, 1,3apg) has played in only three places in Germany Goettingen, Wurzburg and Ludwigsburg and John Patrick was always his coach. Little has belonged to the top defensive guards in the league for years and is always a pest with his quick hands, but is also a solid offensive player He scored in double figures 10 times including a 15 point game against Crailsheim. Patrick Flomo(3,6ppg, 2,7rpg) may be 34, but can still bring energy from the bench and make the highlight reel with an ally-op dunk. Ex Bucknell(NCAA) center Chris Mcnaughton(2,0ppg, 1,0rpg) has been a journeyman in Germany and averaging only five minutes per game, but could be a starter for some other BBL teams. A qualified big man like this on the bench is a big plus should there be foul trouble at the big positions. Patrick also has Germans TIm Koch and Travis Warech to choose from from the bench if needed.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg finished the season with a record of 29-5 thanks to a win in Berlin on the last game day giving the team their fourth regular season title in the last five years. They had a 9-9 Eurocup season reaching the quarterfinal, but losing to Russian team Lokomotiv after losing by two points at home had all chances of advancing, but lost by 18 on the road. They lost in the final of the 2015 Beko BBL cup in Oldenburg 72-70 and now have only one more chance to win hardware this season if they can win nine games in the playoffs. Bamberg had a 16 game winning streak during the season which was halted by a loss against Ludwigsburg and then ended the season with a seven game winning streak. The team may be the deepest and most talented in the league and scored much whenever they wanted to amassing 80 points or more 23 times. Bamberg also belonged to the top defensive teams giving up 70 points or less 17 times. They had a span of six games where they averaged giving up only 58 points as they held TBB Trier to 44 points, and 57 points to scoring machine Phoenix Hagen and Braunschweig. The club has seven players that scored in double figures which shows how well they can share the ball and unselfishness is accepted. The club is led by American Ryan Thompson(13,8ppg, 2,6rpg, 2,4apg) who has had a great season after coming from the Belgium league has belonged to the most dangerous three point shooters on the team. He has scored in double figures 21 times including a 35 point explosion against ratiopharm Ulm. Brad Wanamaker(12,9ppg, 3,7rpg, 4,6apg) from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh(NCAA) is the teams MVP and has been the motor that has made the team so successful. He scored in double figures 23 times and was instrumental in the two wins against Alba Berlin scoring 21 points and 16 points. Ex Xavier player Josh Duncan(12,7ppg, 5,5rpg, 1,8apg) was troubled by injury this season playing only 18 games, but returned in April and will be key in the playoff run with his athletic inside out play. He had big games against FC Bayern Munich and Oldenburg with 22 and 21 points. EXMinnesota(NCAA) forward Trevor Mbakwe(10,5ppg, 7,0rpg, 1,0apg) who had 10 and 10 stats as a rookie with Virtus Roma has been a high flyer in the BBL and has been a regular on the highlight films this season as he is a beast on the offensive glass. He has scored in double figures 19 times including a 25 point 10 rebound game against Phoenix Hagen. Dawan Robinson(10,5ppg, 1,6rpg, 2,2apg) came in January and has been a vital spark from the bench giving his vast experience of 9 professional seasons as his physical stature gives him much advantage getting buckets inside while his outside shooting has been spot on at 48%. Latvian Janis Strelnieks(10,2ppg, 2,3rpg, 2,7apg) is the full package at the point guard position as he excels in pick and role and changing the tempo and has scored in double figures 20 times including a 31 point outburst against FC Bayern Munich. High energy player German Daniel Theis(10,2ppg, 5,2rpg, 1,3apg) who can play inside out with the best of them had a good start to the season then a lull in the middle and has finished strong scoring in double figures in the last five games including a 20 point game against ratiopharm Ulm. Ex NBA player Darius Miller(9,6ppg, 2,1rpg, 2,2apg)who played with the New Orleans Pelicans the last two years playing 97 games came very late to the team, but has been a reliable asset from the bench shooting 46% from outside. Ex Gonzaga(NCAA) player Elias Harris(7,0ppg, 3,2rpg) who played two NBA games with the Los Angeles Lakers forms the best power forward duo with Theis in the league. He has scored in double figures 9 times and has suffered a bit with the deep rotation, but he is always a dangerous player that can change a game. German Kartsen Tadda(3,5ppg, 2,1rpg, 1,1apg) has won the most of anyone on the team with 7 titles with Bamberg and is a real team player that is always capable of making a big play. Croatian Dalibor Bagaric(1,3ppg, 1,2rpg) who played three seasons with the Chicago Bulls is a 217cm 130 kilo center who doesn´t play much, but when he does no one really want to bump into inside. He adds to the vast depth on the team.

When inspecting the head to head team stats, the Brose Baskets Bamberg lead most categories including points scored per game, field goal percentage, three point field goal percentage, assists and turnovers while Ludwigsburg rebound a bit better. The teams split the season series winning in their respective arenas. Both games were close during the regular season as Bamberg averaged 69 points scoring and gave up 71 points. In the 65-59 victory for Bamberg, Ludwigsburg easily won the rebound battle 37-27 as Jon Brockman had a strong game scoring 21 points and grabbing 14 boards, but the team shot miserable from outside at 3/14. In the return game, Ludwigsburg won 83-73, but this time Bamberg controlled the boards 28-25, but had 18 turnovers ten more than Ludwigsburg. Bamberg also controlled Jon Brockman better as he was held to 13 points and seven rebounds while Ludwigsburg had Brad Wanamaker under control limiting him to seven points. This could become a long series if Ludwigsburg can steal game one in Bamberg, but that is easier said than done, but if not then it could end quickly. The two main players to contain for both teams are Brad Wanamaker who gets Bamberg going and Jon Brockman who infects his team with his energy and never ending banging. DJ Kennedy has never lost to Bamberg as he played only once against them this season, but then again he hasn´t yet been witness to how Bamberg always steps it up a notch in the post season. However in the end, Ludwigsburg will come undone to three components of defense, experience and depth which Bamberg all have more of. Not to forget, Bamberg also has a very good mix of old and young while the Ludwigsburg bench has less younger legs which could become a factor in a long series.

Preston Wynne is a 28 year old 184cm guard from Wellpinit, Washington that is a rookie playing for the Baskets Akad.Weser-Ems/Oldenburger TB (Germany-ProB). He started his basketball career at Spokane Community College. He then finished his college career at Vanguard (NAIA) and as a senior played 36 games averaging 20.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.9spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: NAIA1-1(90.7%). He spoke to German Hoops after winning the 2015 Pro B title over SC Rist Wedel.

Congrats Preston on winning the 2015 German Pro B title. How satisfying and great is it ending the season with some hardware in your hands?

It feels great, especially with the group of guys we did it with makes it all the better.

Oldenburg really came out from the start and played excellent basketball in Wedel having a very comfortable lead 45-27 at halftime. With the many fans that made the trip, how much did this game feel like a home game and how were you able to blend out the Wedel fans?

It was hard to block out the Wedel fans, they made their presence known. Our fans came through big time for us, they were cheering and chanting before the game even started, and did not stop until long after.

Oldenburg never let SC Rist Wedel get under double digits in the fourth quarter except for the last seconds where the Wedel Americans Diante Watkins and Brandon Spearman got some big plays and buckets, but ran out of time to do any further damage. What was key in the fourth quarter to preserve the win and title?

We just kept our composure throughout the game and especially the fourth quarter. Wedel would make little runs here and there, as soon as I would get on our guys a little bit they would come up with a big time play, whether it be on the offense or defensive side.

This was obviously a team win, but how vital was the big play of Luka Buntic who gave much support hitting four three pointers and chipping in with 14 points?

Luka has been huge for us all season with his abilities on spreading the floor, he makes it hard for the other teams four man to over help because of his three shooting capabilities. He came up at the perfect moments in the final game, I expected nothing less from a player like him.

SC Rist Wedel guard Diante Watkins left everything on the court hitting for 28 points and getting eight steals. Do you see him making the next step and playing at a higher level next season after two seasons in the German Pro B?

Yeah I’m sure there is a team out there that would love to have his heart and skill set on their team.

How special was it having ex head coach Mladen Drijencic cheering on the squad in the Oldenburg fan block in Wedel? How important was he to the success of the team this season?

I honestly didn’t even see him until after the game, it made me so happy to see the joy and jubilation on his face knowing he was a major part of our success. He was a major part of the success of our team more than he probably even knows.

It is never easy to defend a title, but Oldenburg did that this season. What made this team so special? You were the only American on the team filled with many talented young German players?

The thing that made this team special in my opinion was the fact that they would hardly ever talk about last season and trying to repeat as champs, I can’t recall even one time I heard it. that just shows the level of focus they had on the season in front of them not behind them. To me that showed a great level of maturity in such a young team. I personally think it was the perfect amount for this level, that way a lot of the younger German players will get the game experience that would be missed on a team with a lot of foreign players.

You finished your rookie season averaging 17,1ppg, 4,4rpg and 3,3apg. How would you summarize your rookie season and what is the next step for you as a player?

My first year here was a success. I came to this team to help the younger German players develop not to average outrageous numbers. Every practice I could see the younger players getting a little better, some of the stuff I would tell them in practice they would utilize. For me seeing the growth of our team while winning the championship trumps any individual accolades. The next step for me is just to keep playing, hopefully in Germany.

What is your prediction in the Cleveland-Chicago NBA series? Will Rose or Lebron move on?

I’m thinking the Cavs are going to pull this one off.

When you return back to Washington what will be the first eating place that you will visit after a long season in Germany?

I think i’m going to get a double cheese burger, some Cajun fries with a large peach sprite from Five Guys as soon as I land.

Thanks Preston for the chat.

The do or die games within the Fraport Skyliners organization continue to grow, but in the past the Beko BBL team had problems winning the big games as they were unable to win the Eurochallenge title where do or die was on the menu and their farm team Fraport Skyliners Juniors ended their season in Rostock as they went down fighting, but ran out of gas in the second half as deepness was missing in their roster. Beko BBL team Fraport Skyliners may have some do or die situations in the upcoming playoffs to pull revenge from their gloomy Eurochallenge weekend in Turkey, but as of now the young kids of Eintracht Frankfurt have displayed nerves and heart in big games as they had won their last two playoff games in do or die fashion first disposing of Team Basket Munchen Nord in game three 69-56 as Jules Akodo sparked the team with 32 points and last weekend the young guns of head coach Sebastian Gleim did it again going into an extremely hostile environment in Ulm and were powered by 2014 NBBL rookie of the year Niklas Kiel who manufactured 18 points and hauled down 16 rebounds as the Frankfurt club were victorious 71-65. In game one, Eintracht Frankfurt encountered an aggressive defense by ratiopharm Akademie Ulm that they had never encountered before this season losing 54-42 as they were clobbered down low 52-37, missed an unacceptable 15 free throws and were 2/21 from downtown helping in the loss. In game two, they rebounded winning 71-65 keeping their nerves under control and doing a better job in all three categories of outside shooting going 9!21, dominating the boards 61-36 and hitting 14/23 free throws for 60%. Having won their last two do or die games, Eintracht Frankfurt was searching for their third do or die win in a row and kept their nerves making a huge come back in the third quarter regaining the lead and withstanding a last run by ratiopharm Akademie Ulm in the fourth quarter to earn a ticket to the NBBL Top 4 in Hagen winning 58-55. Besides Niklas Kiel showing his beast mode inside with 13 points and 20 rebounds, the other hero was Brit Jules Akodo who came into the game shooting 6/32 from the field in the first two games and had a cold first half where nothing was falling, but in the third quarter got the team going finally hitting shots and getting four quick assists inside to his big men. “This was the biggest win of the season. It was tough being down at halftime, but we grinded it out in the second half. He played solid defense today and also the whole series, but not good offense. Today we put it all together. I know that I didn´t play good in the first two games, but everyone kept believing in me and told me to keep playing my game”, added Eintracht Frankfiurt point guard Jules Akodo. After the loss a dejected Carlos Cerdan was letting the last 40 minutes pass through his head as he was the last Ulm player sitting on the bench knew that his team had every chance to win, but just came up a bit short at the end. “We feel really bad now, because we wanted to win this game so bad and move on to Hagen. Frankfurt just played good basketball. They played good defense the whole series and played well enough to win today”, added Spaniard Carlos Cerdan.

There were many notable persons in attendance in the BCM like Eintracht Frankfurt president Peter Fischer and an array of Fraport Skyliners like Danilo Barthel, Jacob Burtschi, Johannes Richer, Mikko Koivisto, Marius Nolte, Stefan Ilzhoefer and Max Merz who was back from Australia and who will help the team in the playoffs against FC Bayern Munich. The first few minutes were back and forth until ratiopharm Akademie Ulm was able to take control of the game and end the first quarter with a 9-0 run to lead 17-8. 2014 NBBL rookie of the year Niklas Kiel got Eintracht Frankfurt on the board first with a lay in, but Ulm counter attacked as German/Austrian David Kramer hit a step back three pointer in front of his own bench almost falling into the lap of a teammate. Kiel then gave Eintracht Frankfurt the lead back with a step back jumper 4-3, but Cerdan erased that swiftly with a jumper and free throw and 6-4 advantage. The game developed into a defense battle from the get go as both teams were forcing the other to tough shots as the field goal percentages took a dip early. After Ulm guard Michale Dorsch scored in traffic to give Ulm the 8-5 advantage, Frankfurt clawed their way back as Kiel made a free throw and 18 year old shooting guard Lennart Okeke opted for the hard penetration sneaking in from the baseline for the 8-8 score. Ratiopharm Akademie Ulm then ended the first quarter with a late spurt going on a 9-0 run to lead 17-8. 16 year old Christoph Phillipps started off the run with a quick finger tip roll lay in, 17 year old 206cm forwad Bernhard Benke who only took three shots in game two made a trey and free throw and Kramer put up a prayer that found the back board and fell through the rim. “I enjoy watching the NBBL. These are the players that one may see in the BBL in 3-4 years. Frankfurt played a sloppy first quarter while Ulm did a good job against the pressure. Frankfurt did a good job rebounding, but couldn´t throw it the ocean”, stressed Fraport Skyliner forward Jacob Burtschi. Ratiopharm Akademie Ulm was shooting 38% from the field and 38% from outside while Eintracht Frankfurt was shooting 23% from the field and 0% from outside. Frankfurt had the 14-9 rebound edge. But five turnovers while Ulm had three turnovers.

In the second quarter ratiopharm Akademie Ulm was able to keep the lead until Eintracht Frankfurt closed out the second quarter with a timely 6-0 run to trail only 34-30 at the break. Eintracht Frankfurt got out on a lightening start going on a mini 4-0 run as the big men Kiel made a lay in and 17 year old 201cm Armin Trtovac made a bay hook after being fed perfectly via no look from Jules Akodo cutting the Ulm lead to 17-12. However whenever Eintracht Frankfurt seemed to be getting going Ulm always had an answer and made their own run of 5-0 as Benke scored inside and Kramer dropped a three pointer from the corner as Ulm led 22-12. The second quarter continued to be a game of runs as Eintracht Frankfurt responded with a 5-0 run to cut the Ulm lead to 22-17. In the run it was 18 year old 203cm forward Ivan Mihaljevic who battled inside finding the perfect position grabbing an offensive rebound and making the put back while Akodo made the play of the game dunking hard over Ulm forward Marvin Omuvwie and made the free throw as Eintracht Frankfurt trailed 22-17. “Marvin bumped me a bit which didn´t allow me to follow through as well. That was my second best dunk ever. My best was in Slovenia”, stressed Jules Akodo. Ratiopharm Akademie Ulm continued to be consistent on offense going on the next run of 7-0 to extend their lead to 29-17. In the run it was 18 year old 210cm center Daniel Woltering making a dunk as Kiel lost control of a loose ball and then made a lay in after getting fed from Cerdan. Phillipps then closed out a fast break with a lay in and free throw. Frankfurt made up some ground making free throws from Kiel and Musovic, but Woltering continued to do damage as he made a baby hook shot and then connected on a three pointer as Ulm led 34-34. With a minute to play in the second quarter, it was Lennart Okeke who finally started to hit shots nailing back to back three pointers to keep Eintracht Frankfurt in the game as they trailed only 34-30. “Ulm controlled the pace, did a good job on 50-50 balls and hit shots. Frankfurt continued to be cold shooting, but got a big confidence booster with the three pointers from Okeke”, stated Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi. Ratiopharm Akademie Ulm was shooting 38% from the field and 29% from the three point line while Eintracht Frankfurt was shooting 36% from the field and 18% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 26-19 rebound edge, but seven turnovers while Ulm had five turnovers.

The third quarter saw the Awakening of Jules Akodo who led a 19-4 run to get the big 49-38 lead after three quarters. It had been a tough 10 quarters for Jules Akodo in the first two and a half games, but a slump can only last so long and the Brit finally got going on the offensive end being involved in seven of the eight field goals in the third quarter. Akodo started off the third quarter testing his season 45% three point shooting percentage and hitting and then used his other strength the penetration and finding Trtovac back to back with the no look pass. Kramer made a little dent in the Frankfurt comeback with a step back three, but Akodo was in his own element as he had so much energy and intensity that one just had the feeling that his romp on the court would continue and it did. Akodo gave Eintracht Frankfurt the lead back 39-37 with a coast to coast sprint and lay in. He continued to be aggressive on offense as he made a floater from a tough angle finding nothing but net and then set up Trtovac for the third time in the quarter as Eintracht Frankfurt extended their lead to 44-38. Akodo continued to find his teammates now dishing a no look pass to Mihaljevic and 18 year old 190cm shooting guard Can Akbayir added salt into the wound by hitting a jumper as Eintracht Frankfurt totally turned around the game and went into the fourth quarter with the massive momentum leading 49-38. “I was too passive in the first half and just came out more aggressive in the third quarter. I was looking to create more for my teammates and looking for my shot”, stressed Jules Akodo. “Frankfurt played zone and their defense fueled their offense which got going. We couldn´t stop Akodo who always found his big men. Frankfurt made a good comeback”, stressed Carlos Cerdan. Eintracht Frankfurt was shooting 44% from the field and 25% from the parking lot while ratiopharm Akademie Ulm was shooting 30% from the field and 30% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 38-25 rebound edge, but 11 turnovers while Ulm had 10 turnovers.

The fourth quarter had two tales as David Kramer got Ulm back in the game and then Eintracht Frankfurt grinded out the win with hardnosed defense. Kramer was the only real offensive threat the whole game for Ulm and he came out on a mission in the fourth quarter as he was a one man wrecking crew taking ratiopharm Akademie Ulm on his own 9-0 run nailing consecutive three pointers and then connecting on three free throws cutting the Frankfurt lead to 49-47. Eintracht Frankfurt stepped up their defense forcing Ulm to tough shots and clogging the lane against the penetration while on offense they continued to bang the ball inside with success as Kiel found Trtovac for a lay in and the big man then got an offensive rebound and put back for the 53-47 lead. The game remained close as Eintracht Frankfurt continued to miss easy free throws as Trtovac and Musovic missed three and Joschka Ferner who didn´t hit his first field goal of the game until late in the fourth made a few free throws tying the game at 54-54. However despite the game being close, Eintracht Frankfurt had control of the game as their defense was at its best getting stops while getting to the free throw line. Akodo made the last three free throws of the game to seal the win despite Frankfurt being called for a technical, Ulm was unable to capitalize as Ferner missed the free throw and with three seconds left Kramer pull up a prayer that found only air as Eintracht Frankfurt was headed to the NBBL Top 4 in Hagen. “We were composed at the end, got stops, gave up no second chances on the boards and just executed down the stretch”, stressed Jules Akodo. “We went to zone at the end trying to stop their one on one play. Anybody could of won at the end. That is how basketball is”, added Carlos Cerdan. Eintracht Frankfurt was led by Armin Trtovac with 17 points and nine rebounds. Niklas Kiel added 13 points, 20 rebounds and four assists. Jules Akodo chipped in with 12 points. Ratiopharm Akademie Ulm were led by David Kramer with 21 points. Eintracht Frankfurt finished the game shooting 36% from the field and 18% from outside while ratiopharm Akademie Ulm shot 30% from the field and 29% from outside. Eintracht Frankfurt won the rebound duel 52-39, but had 15 turnovers while Ulm had 13 turnovers. Despite the tough loss in Frankfurt, ratiopharm Akdamie Ulm can look back at a great season. “We have a young team and will lose some guys with Ferner and Woltering, but we will keep going and come back next season”, warned Carlos Cerdan. Eintrach Frankfurt now have two weeks to prepare for the NBBL Top 4 and are ready to battle. “We are going into the Top 4 knowing we are a good defensive team. We know that we can stop anyone”, warned Jules Akodo.