When you think about the most famous NBA twin towers, the state of Texas comes to mind right away and I am thinking about the cities Houston or San Antonio, where the two tall duo´s of Ralph Samson and Akeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets and David Robinson and Tim Duncan of the San Antonio Spurs who all have long dangling arms that for many NBA defenders felt like they were being bombarded by nasty and annoying octopuses all night long on the glass. Of course these NBA legends of Hall of Famers and future of famers aren´t worthy of being compared to, but if you walk down the long and after loses unseemingly endless hall way between the Fraport Skyliners locker room and mesh area where you are greeted with clapping after big wins when each player walks in, you are transformed into a magical world between Frankfurt and airport as the Frankfurt skyline by night is plastered on the wall and sometimes by request one can witness a flashing light over the picture of the skyline giving one a sense of being on the runway at Frankfurt airport courtesy of the airport operating firm Fraport. So it is fitting when the Fraport Skyliner hulking youths Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann exit the locker room that suddenly two extra twin towers have arisen to brighten up an already sparkling Frankfurt Skyline. Sometimes this Skyliner twin tower duo are joined by point guard Konstantin Klein as they march down the catacombs in the Fraport arena as their point guard side kick the same way that John Lucas was in the 80s in Houston and Avery Johnson was in the 90s in San Antonio. Barthel and Voigtmann may only be at the start of their career, but in a careful sense one could name them the Fraport Skyliners own version of The twin towers as they continue to develop more and more and gain extensive respect and also will be teammates for the first time at the 2015 Beko BBL Allstar games playing for the national team.

Danilo Barthel will be taking part in his second Allstar game while his teammate Johannes Voigtmann will be making his debut in Ulm. When you look at each Beko BBL roster, you mostly find a big forward and center, but not each team has the luxury of this height advantage especially a Phoenix Hagen where a Keith Ramsey is the tallest player at 205cm. For example in the last years top teams like the EWE Baskets Oldenburg had a type of twin towers with German Chris Mcnaughton and Serb Luka Bogdanovic or Bamberg back in 2008 having future NBA player Tim Ohlbrecht and ex NBA player Alexander Johnson roaming the zone area or more recently in Freak City as Chris Fleming had a brutal inside presence of twin tower capacity with Germans Tibor Pleiss and Philipp Neumann. However but where does that description with the twin towers fit best other than in Frankfurt that has the only real American style of Skyline in Germany whereas in Bamberg and Oldenburg the cow pastures are only a blink away. Barthel and Voigtmann are the only twin towers duo in this years competition that are coming from the same team. Both Germans are more than worthy of their nomination and despite the up and down of the Fraport Skyliners this season, both guys have continued to develop in their own right as in the first 10 Beko BBL games they carried a team that was still searching for their identity and had massive injury woes while in the last eight Beko BBL games and three Eurochallenge games as Beko BBL rookie Justin Cobbs came on board helped lead the team to a 10-2 record and grow further with the calm and stable floor general play of the American. A prime example of their dominance was the twin towers combining for 38 points and 17 rebounds against cellar team Crailsheim Merlins. Their dominating inside presence right of the bat laid the foundation for the Fraport Skyliners getting their offense going and never giving up the lead and getting the comfortable 88-71 victory even if it didn´t always seem so easy. “Barthel and Voigtmann both played very well and were aggressive on both ends of the court. I know how good they are since I see them play each day in practice”, smiled St Petersburg Florida native Mike Morrison. “We did a good job leading the team today. I had some easy baskets early which helped me get into the game better. Joe had 12 rebounds and did a good job down low. We worked well together and when we are both present then we make space for the others”, stated Heidelberg native Danilo Barthel. “The German big men led their team today. They are athletic, physical and skillful and played great”, added ex Giessen 46er Jannik Freese. “I am looking forward to my second allstar game. I hope that I will get some minutes on the court with Joe. We will see what happens”, stressed Danilo Barthel.

Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann have been teammates now for two and a half years and they have continued to develop each season and have improved in their stats each season. Only this season Barthel has been down a bit with his scoring average to last season as he is still looking to find his consistency which he had last season. Barthel has scored in double figures eight times this season including a 22 point effort against Braunschweig while Voigtmann has scored in double figures nine times including two 18 point efforts against Bayreuth and Bamberg. Both guys also have been major contributors and forces in the Eurochallenge play as they have been in the shadow of Americans Justin Cobb and Sean Armand slightly, but been very consistent as combined they have scored in double figures in nine of 12 games. Especially Voigtmann has been a giant force as he is averaging 13,5ppg, 7,5rpg and 2,2apg. Voigtmann did a great job holding his own against more experienced big men like John Tofi and Christoph Maraker in Eurochallenger play. With the versatile play of Voigtmann, he seems to be all over the court, but still has the finesse to get to the board whenever possible and is showing immense physicality something that has definitely grown with time. His biggest strength seems to be his passing as he belongs to the top passing big men in the league no matter who you ask the German gets a thumbs up if its from Adam Waleskowski, Pro B player Jermale Jones or his own teammate Danilo Barthel. The game IQ of him is amazing and it is scary to wonder where his passing qualities could be in 3-4 years. The mid distance is his bread butter, but his put back work has also improved. Barthel on the other had come into the season with a lot of expectations and had some problems reaching them. After a good start where he scored in double figures in three of his first four games, he then had a lull in the next four games where he was forcing a lot and was 0/6 from downtown. He then scored in double figures against Bamberg and The Walter Tigers Tuebingen, but still had problems with his three pointer going 1/5 in those two games. However since the arrival of Justin Cobbs and the game against the Mitteldeutscher BC in Leipzig he has been like reborn from outside shooting 10/13. He is shooting overall 46% from downtown now in the Beko BBL and 41% in Eurochallenge play. His brute physical play inside also is paying dividends in his game even if he seems to be getting a few more elbows thrown his way. He isn´t unstoppable down low, but he is a very annoying player to stop and if he doesn´t score he more than often will draw the foul. Both guys also have picked up their defense in the last month as the twin towers torment opponents inside with their body wall. Barthel sparkled in a hard fought loss in Berlin with three blocks while Voigtmann was a monster on defense against BG Goettingen swatting away four balls. The duo twin towers continue to understand each other blindly on the court and it will be exciting how they will continue to develop this season as well as in the next years. “I think that we both have developed individually in the first months this season. We help each other on and off the court”, stressed Danilo Barthel. “We have been together now two and half years, practice each day together, haven´t been injured and just know what each other guy does on the court. We have a good flow on the court, compliment each other well with my passing and his athletic ability. We also can get on each other and scream, but after two minutes all is good again”, added Johannes Voigtmann. The blind understanding that the twin towers have is something that everyone can see. “They are very good players that obviously spend much time together off the court and talk about where the other likes to catch the ball or where to shoot it. The good communication that they have results in their good play on the court”, added Jermel Jones. If Jones will continue to ball in Germany the next years is unknown, but his interest in the Fraport Skyliners is evident as he is almost at every home game when Lich isn´t playing and he will continue to follow the twin towers as he sees a big future in them. “I think that they will continue to get better. They bring the same intensity in every game. They are so big and their hands are so active. I see them having a good career in the national team. They are young and just have to battle for their places in the team”, warned Jermel Jones. Even if Konstantin Klein has the Avery Johnson type of part with the Skyliners German version of the twin towers, he has seen them operate from a different perspective the last weeks as he has been injured and been watching from the bench. “They find each other well on the court and have a great understanding of the game. It is a lot of fun watching them get better each game”, said Berlin native Konstantin Klein. It will be an interesting second half of the season for the Twin Towers starting in Ulm this weekend at the Allstar game. Continuing to help the Fraport Skyliners reach their goal playoffs, possible new horizons coming in Eurochallenge action and just getting better each day adding more self confidence to both Germans with each new success will help them when they most likely will take part at the German national team training camp this summer battling for spots in preparation for Euro 2015. This weekend the Frankfurt German Twin Towers Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann will be looking to spread some flair to skyscraper less Ulm at the 2015 BEKO BBL allstar game

 

 

Elijah Allen is a 25 year old 195cm swing man from Columbus, Ohio that is playing his third professional season in Germany and first with Lich. He started his basketball career at NW Missouri St. (NCAA2) in 2007 where he played until 2011 playing a total of 103 NCAA games and as a senior played 26 games: 14.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.1apg, FG: 44.8%, 3Pts: 23.1%, FT: 74.8%. He came to Germany in 2012 and played his first two seasons for the VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Germany-Regionalliga) and last season played 26 games averaging 20.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 68.4%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball

 

 

You recently played your first time in the BCM in Frankfurt. Does a place like this make you jealous when you see what kind of practice facility players have?

 

Yes it makes me jealous. This is a beautiful gym. I was pleased to play my first time here.

 

The Licher Basket Baehren have been up and down this season. What has been missing for success?

 

I think that we haven’t gelled as a team yet. We are still learning to play as a team. We are starting to focus more on defense and not beings elfish. It seems like there is always a player injured each game. We have to all find our role and fit those missing pieces together.

 

You are playing your first season in Lich after two seasons in the German Regionaliga with 1900 Giessen Pointers. How do you like Lich?

 

Lich is a great organization. I have family and recently got married and wanted to stay close to Lich. I practiced last season with Giessen and the Lich coach was often there so it all fit together that I could play with Lich.

 

Your scoring from last season in the Regionaliga has been cut in half now in the German Pro B. What is the biggest difference from the Regionaliga to the Pro B?

 

The size of the players as they are bigger in the Pro B. I knew coming to Lich that my scoring would be cut down. I am the third American playing 18-20 minutes. I just do whatever it takes to help the team win. In some games it may be scoring while in other games my defense.

 

How much fun has it been playing with Jermale Jones?

 

 

I love to play with him. He can score in a variety of ways. I like how he always has the ball and I don’t always have to have the ball. He finds me on the penetration. I knew him form the last years because Lich often scrimmaged against us during the week.

 

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn’t always get noticed on the court?

 

 

I would say defense. I play out of position with Lich. I can play the position 2-4 and just adjust to whatever the team needs each game.

 

You are a very good rebounder at 195cm. What is your secret to getting rebounds often?

 

Boxing out and crashing the boards is my secret. Important for me before I get the rebound is just stopping my opponent from getting the rebound which means good boxing out.

 

Often players move up each year, but you played two straight seasons in the Regionaliga. How difficult was it for you not moving up after one season?

 

 

I had some offers after my first season, but I felt it was best for my situation to stay and it gave me something to play for each game.

 

Is the German Pro A your next goal?

 

Yes the Pro A is my next goal. I am working on getting a German passport. We will see what happens this summer and I also need to play a good season.

 

AS a rookie you played with Dominic Lockhart that is getting minutes for Beko BBL team EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Did you know he would go this route?

 

I always expected that he would make it. He may have been skinny then, but his size came. He really has become a good player. I really liked how he always wanted to get better and always asked me questions and how he could improve his game. He always stayed after practice to put up extra shots.

 

What was it like playing for Dejan Kostic in Giessen? It was your first Non American coach in Europe.

 

My first year was difficult since I had to make the adjustment to the country and style and the dialect. I didn´t know German and his English wasn´t great either, but it got better. But basketball is the same everywhere and it just depends on the different tactics of each coach.

 

You played at North West Missouri State with Deshaun Cooper. How much do you miss those duels with him?

 

I really miss playing with him. He isnt a shot first guard at all. It was always so hard to keep him in front of you as he was so fast. We played two years together and It is no surprise to me that he is playing so well for Herten.

 

How did Bob Mccallum prepare you best for s professional basketball career?

 

He taught me to always be tough on the court. He was big on sticking to the basics and was very old school. He didn’t like the flashy. It was A&B and nothing extra with him. When you watch Deshaun Cooper play you see exactly that on the court.

 

Why are so many amazing players bred in Ohio?

 

 

I think it has to do with the AAU circuit. It is so big and there are so many teams. You start at such a young age and keep playing against good players each weekend. I remember traveling to a different state each weekend with guys like Jon Diebler, Dallas Lauderdale and Nate Miles.

 

Where will the journey of the Cleveland Cavaliers end this season?

 

It will take time with them as it did with the Heat. I think once the playoffs roll around they will come together. Chicago will win the east as they are more focused and have a deeper bench.

 

 

Was the 3.5 year ban of playing in Germany too harsh against Filmore Beck?

 

You have to always control your emotions. If you hit a guy then you will have to pay the penalty.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Planet of the Apes 2.

 

Thanks Elijah for the chat.

 

Chase Griffin is a 31 year old 188 cm guard from Sammamish, Washington that is playing his eighth professional season and first with SC Rasta Vechta. He played college ball at Pepperdine in California from 2002 to 2007. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 15.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.3%, 3Pts: 37.3%, FT: 80.7%. He joined Phoenix Hagen in January 2008 and finished the season playing 14 games averaging 15.7ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 41.5%, FT: 76.1%. In the 2008-2009 season, he helped lead Phoenix Hagen into the BBL playing 28 games and averaging 16.9ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.. He played a third season for Phoenix Hagen in 2009-2010 playing 33 games averaging 13.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 83.5%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for the LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 22 games averaging 8.5ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 42.5%, FT: 86.7%. In the 2011-2012 season he played for Torpan Pojat Helsinki (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 47 games: 16.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 86.5%; VTB League: 2 games: 7.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 100.0%. He palyed the last two seasons for the BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProA) and last season played 33 games: Score-5(18.0ppg), 3.7rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 45.8%, FT-2(91.6%).During the first half of this current season, he spoke to German Hoopsabout basketball.

 

 

 

 

 

After two seasons in Gotha why did you decide to join SC Rasta Vechta?

 

 

 

Vechta is a great organization and have big aspirations to move back to the BBL. I saw this as possibly my last shot to help lead a team back to the BBL. Plus Vechta is a basketball town. They are so excited here in Vechta and that got me excited. I had two great years in Vechta.

 

 

What was it like going from one rookie coach with Chris Ensminger to another PRO A rookie coach and Stephen Arigbabu?

 

 

It has been very different, but both have showed that they can go their way. Both are good coaches in different ways.

 

 

You played against Chris Ensminger as a player and then you had him as a head coach. What really amazed you about him as coach?

 

 

He is as hardnosed as a coach as he was a player and his tenacity is amazing. He is always fired up. I remember going hard to the hole and he would foul the heck out of you. He is no different as coach as he busts your but. I have really learned a lot from him especially tactical things as we had some 40 plays last season in Gotha. He taught me always to keep my head in the game even in the tough times.

 

 

SC Rasta Vechta let Ahmad Smith go and hauled in Derek Wright. What has been your impression of him so far?

 

 

Wright has been great. He is so quick, can score, kick out the ball to the shooters and is a great defender. With time he will really help us.

 

 

You played in Giessen in the 2010-2011 season and last season won with Gotha in OT. What memories do you have of your playing time in Giessen?

 

 

 

There were high and low points. We had more low points though. That year we almost went down. It was a learning experience for me.

 

 

You are 31 now. What do you do better now than when you were 26 and playing in Hagen?

 

 

I am an overall better player now. My mind is very well conditioned. I may have lost a step, but I know where to be on the court. I am not as athletic anymore now, but I know how to play the game better. In Hagen I was a crazy player and now I play the game right.

 

 

What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

 

My passing is unnoticed. I have worked very hard the last years to get my teammates more involved and my assist rate has gone up.

 

 

How much does your experience help a younger guard like Kevin Smit?

 

He already has a lot of experience. I hope that he can take something from my game. He can really play, is smart and quick and the great thing is that you tell him something one, he listens and learns it then.

 

 

You played three seasons for Ingo Freyer in Hagen. Do you ever see him being able to coach another team and style?

 

 

Ingo is a good coach. He plays gimmick basketball, but it works. He might get blown out at times, but then again is able to beat top teams like Alba Berlin numerous years in a row. He made a nice playoff run a few years ago. It took a while, but he is respected now.

 

 

I really loved the basketball documentary Phoenix in der Asche. How many times did you see it and should Michael Jordan have received a basketball Oscar?

 

 

I watched it once and will never watch it again. It didn´t portray the real Phoenix Hagen season. There’s so much that goes on during an entire BBL season, it’s hard to capture the whole story in a 90 minute documentary or however long it was.

 

 

 

The next season you and Michael Jordan played together in Giessen. How did that work? Was that the clash of the ego´s?

 

 

I mean it’s all water under the bridge, what was it 4 years ago? I can honestly laugh about it now so I won’t get in to depth about it but I’ll first say there’s definitely a false perception out there of what happened the previous year in Hagen. Only the guys on that team and in the management know what exactly went down. Again, movies and even documentaries don’t portray reality. I’m confident that I handled Mikes Jekyll and Hyde personalities the best way possible. I am naturally a very quiet, easy going guy–ask anyone I’ve ever played with. Maybe he didn’t like that or the way I played which made him act out. I can agree with him there, back in my Hagen days, I played with less discipline than I do today, But still no reason for some of the things we saw out of him that year. I can honestly say I have never seen anything like it in my 20+ years in basketball. He got released 2 weeks before the end of the season and I thought I’d never see him let alone play with him again. 8 months later, he came to Giessen with our new coach Steve Key. I was a little shocked Giessen would bring him in knowing that he had it out for me from the start.

 

 

 

In the 2011-2012 season you played for Torpan Pojat Helsinki (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 47 games: 16.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 86.5%; VTB League: 2 games: 7.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 100.0%. How did your game develop further in Finland?

 

 

I liked the style there as it was up and down gun and gun. The league kept me athletic. It was a great year living in Helsinki.

 

 

Could you imagine staying in Germany until the end of your playing career?

 

 

I am thinking about keeping my family here. I could also imagine living here after my playing career.

 

 

Who won a one on one in practice in Gotha you or Gary Johnson?

 

 

Me always.

 

 

 

When you came to Hagen in 2008 your teammate was Per Guenther. Did you know then that he would become such a great player?

 

Yes I knew that he would develop the way he did. He was a raw talent that was smart and worked hard. He has a lot of experience and am happy that he has developed the way he has.

 

 

Where will the journey of the Seattle Sea Hawks end this season?

 

Super Bowl.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Pulp Fiction.

 

 

Thanks Chase for the chat.

Sometimes misfortune plagues a team as long as Rajon Rondo takes apart defenses and it just doesn´t stop as the new Beko BBL team Crailsheim Merlins witnessed a little more than a week ago when they left for the 414 kilometer far away Hagen at 9:45 AM for a 19:30 game and still were unable to reach its destination and thus had to take an automatic loss. In the day and age where social media gives the world an up to date report about what is happening, basketball fans were informed what was happening by tweets and face book posts from players as for some the chic sunglasses of German center Jannik Freese was the big highlight during the team´s trek back to the last exit to hop into mini vans. That unforgettable experience has been just one of many this season for the last placed team who after many winning seasons in the Pro A have been losing as much this season as German soccer club Borusia Dortmund who have seemed to have forgotten how to win. Coupled with loses and players coming and going, it has been a season to forget and huge learning experience for the Schwaben team. After the calamity trying to reach Hagen last weekend, players might have had at the top of their 2015 New Years resolutions to try to reach their next destination or simply just leave even earlier or travel a day before game day. With their next away game against the Fraport Skyliners, they were a bit more than halfway as close at 217 Kilometers then they were traveling to Hagen. The whole Crailsheim to Hagen fiasco trip brings back memories to the Giessen 46ers who didn´t reach Ludwigsburg on time in 1996 as German national player Armin Andrers was on the team and then in 2008 were stuck in nonmoving traffic as the Hessen club once again didn´t reach their destination. However a new day and year and better weather conditions were on the side of the Crailsheim Merlins as they didn´t want to take the risk of leaving on game day and getting stuck in snow again as they left the day before and reached Frankfurt on time, but left their A game on the bus as the Fraport Skyliners came out smoking and with some ups and downs during the game easily won their ninth game in a row at home 88-71. After the loss, German Jannik Freese had no comment about the Hagen fiasco last weekend, but American teammate Garrett Sim did. “That was a very unique situation last weekend. I am just happy that we made it well to Frankfurt. We are going to take the break to get better. We let too many games slip away in the first half”, stressed ex Science City Jena guard Garret Sim. Fraport Skyliner center Mike Morrison who was idle on account of a one game suspension was doing his little dance in the catacombs which has become habit in the last few months with this winning streak intact and had his two cents for the Crailsheim Hagen affair. “I am happy that they made it safely to Frankfurt. It was misfortunate that you have to take a loss like that. You want to battle and then can´t even play. But that is a part of life. They can be blessed that there was no crash or something like that”, added Mike Morrison.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game with a record of 7-9 and it was difficult to know if having the last place team as guest right before the two week break was the best medicine as ups and downs in the game showed that possibly the team was already on vacation time. The Fraport Skyliners never trailed in this game, but allowed Crailsheim to cut their seemingly not endangered lead to four points in the third quarter, but the 2004 BBL champion wiped that little scare away as quickly as a snowplower does unwanted snow from the road. Especially the Frankfurt Mainhatten twin towers of Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann combined for 37 points and 17 rebounds making it for a long afternoon in the paint area. “Crailsheim is a good team and we let them score. We had many turnovers, but we cleaned it up in the second half. We should of pulled away in the first half, but found our stride in the second half. Barthel and Voigtmann both played very well and were aggressive on both ends of the court. I know how good they are since I see them play each day in practice”, smiled St Petersburg Florida native Mike Morrison. “We did a good job leading the team today. I had some easy baskets early which helped me get into the game better. Joe had 12 rebounds and did a good job down low. We worked well together and when we are both present then we make space for the others”, stated Heidelberg native Danilo Barthel. “The German big men led their team today. They are athletic, physical and skillful and played great”, added ex Giessen 46er Jannik Freese. Crailsheim was reeling off a bitter loss against the Telekom Baskets Bonn a few days earlier and once again no one could complain about a lack of effort or fighting quality, but at the end the score and difference in points told the story of the game. “Frankfurt beat us in every aspect of the game if it was rebounding, 50/50 balls or execution. We were always a step behind”, added Portland, Oregon native Garret Sim.

The Fraport Skyliners entered the game without Mike Morrison, Konstantin Klein and Kevin Bright. 5000 fans were on hand to witness this Sunday matinee as was injured Skyliner Max Merz who was back in the arena for the first time since his concussion against TBB Trier. The Fraport Skyliners exploded out of the gate going on a 9-2 run as Barthel scored five points as the club was making life very difficult inside for Crailsheim. The Frankfurt passing game was put into the forefront as Cobbs found Voigtmann and Quantez Robertson played some give and go with Barthel who found the Auburn alumnist for two quick points. Crailsheim took a time out and from that time on, the Fraport Skyliners would never find that flow again like in those first two minutes. Crailsheim came out refreshed and went on a 8-4 run to trail only 13-10. In the run, the Crailsheim Merlins got buckets from Jonathan Moore, Andriy Agafanov and Chris Otule. Frankfurt had lost their rhythm, but also weren´t playing calm basketball as turnovers and wildness was on their ball menu. Crailsheim gives up an average of 84 points a game and it was only a matter of time before Frankfurt would get more buckets again. Down the stretch they got big buckets from American rookie Justin Cobbs who really is deadly with his quickness and penetration last matched in Frankfurt by 2011 Beko BBL MVP Dashaun Wood. After one quarter the Fraport Skyliners had then 23-17 advantage. “Frankfurt came ready to play and were doing all the little things to get the job done. After the Crailsheim timeout they went away from what they were doing letting the opponent sneak back into the game. Crailsheim got easy buckets and Frankfurt had too many turnovers which was a result of a lack of concentration”, stressed TV Lich guard Jermale Jones. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 50% from the field and 0% from outside and the Crailsheim Merlins were shooting 29% from the field and 14% from outside. Frankfurt had the 12-8 rebound edge, but five turnovers while Crailsheim had four turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners continued to keep the lead despite the Crailsheim Merlins cutting the lead to four points and were down by nine points at intermission. Fraport Skyliners Finish guard Mikko Koivisto started the second quarter by nailing a wide open three pointer. Crailsheim center Jannik Freese kept his team in the game getting two buckets down low getting one in traffic and making a fade away jumper as Frankfurt led 29-24. Voigtmann then closed out the pick and roll perfectly with Justin Cobbs making a massive two handed dunk and Danilo Barthel was fed with a bullet pass from Armand which almost didn´t happen because he almost lost the ball making a fancy dribble behind his back, but luckily found the 2015 Beko BBL allstar. Crailsheim kept fighting back going on a 10-5 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 38-34. Ex Marquette center Chris Otule did severe damage in this phase as he made a put back, made a pretty left handed lay in and hammered down a crushing dunk. German Stefan Ilzhoefer connected on a three pointer that he threw down in line drive manner and Voigtmann made a put back. Voigtmann who is seen as one of the top big men passers in the Beko BBL wasn´t having a good day as he suffered his third turnover in the second quarter all resulting from bad passes. If my description to a colleague in the stands that top NBA passing big man Marc Gasol could learn a little bit from the passing qualities of Voigtmann when he is on left a curse in the Fraport arena air was unknown, but the big German took his bad passing day in stride. “There are games when this happens. I played more risk basketball. I need to reflect on this game and maybe next week I will play with less risk involved when making passes”, said Johannes Voigtmann. The Fraport Skyliners escaped out of the Crailsheim Merlins run going on a 9-4 run to go into halftime with the 47-38 lead. In the run, it was Sean Armand that connected twice, Cobbs turned defense into offense with a lay in and Barthel scored inside. “Crailsheim was able to cut it down to four late in the third quarter, because their offense started to work better which led to easy baskets and open shots. Cobbs once again was the reason for Frankfurt breaking away a bit at the end as he let his floor general tendencies go to work finishing himself or finding his teammates”, expressed Jermale Jones. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 56% from the field and 44% from the three point line while the Crailsheim Merlins were shooting 45% from the field and 9% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 18-13 rebound edge, but eight turnovers while Crailsheim had seven turnovers.

In the third quarter, the Crailsheim Merlins jumped on the Fraport Skyliners again going on a 6-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 47-44, but once again the home team had enough ways to build on their lead and get back to 10 plus points. Sim and ex Bremerhaven German Jonathan Moore burned Frankfurt on back to back bombs from outside. However Frankfurt reacted with a lightening 7-0 run to extend their lead again to 54-44 as the German twin towers went to work as Barthel scored inside and dropped a three pointer while Voigtmann made a put back. Crailsheim still had fire power as they continued to launch three pointers with some luck as Brooklyn, New York native Chad Timberlake and Moore connected to trail only 56-49. Soon after fans saw the most spectacular play of the game as Sean Armand made a steal and had Super Tez on the right wing and ally-op seemed tattoed on both guys fore heads and they executed the play to perfection as Frankfurt led 60-52. Down the stretch Frankfurt kept attacking and were able to hold the comfortable lead. Barthel continued to be active on the offensive glass getting a bucket as well as Cobbs finishing with a pretty lay up high off the glass. Crailsheim got some clutch buckets late Otule hit a runner and Sim made a three pointer. Cobbs ended the third quarter scoring somehow in traffic as Frankfurt led 71-59. “Coach told us at halftime that we should have been leading by more, but that our bad defense led to easy Crailsheim baskets. We executed better in the third and started to play better defense”, stressed Mike Morrison. “We should of played with more intensity, but we weren´t able”, added Texas native Chris Otule. “We came out strong hitting shots, but then fell apart. We took a step forward, but two steps back”, added Garret Sim. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 57% from the field and 42% from the parking lot while the Crailsheim Merlins were shooting 43% from the field and 35% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 28-18 rebound lead, but 12 turnovers while Crailsheim had 11 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners kept the lead and were never threatened again as the Crailsheim Merlins could not cut the Frankfurt lead to less than 14 points. Offense took a back seat in the fourth as the game was pretty much decided. Justin Cobbs helped his personal stat sheet with a three pointer and lay in as the Los Angeles native once again found the perfect mix for finishing and finding his teammates as Frankfurt extended their lead to 76-61. Frankfurt got some more production from Sean Armand who hit a three pointer, Robertson who had foul problems made a big offensive rebound and made the put back and Canadian Aaron Doornekamp nailed a three pointer who did a lot of the dirty work on the glass as he finished with five points and seven rebounds. Frankfurt led 85-66 with 1.52 minutes to play and Gordon Herbert inserted 2015 NBBL allstars 17 year old Niklas Kiel and 18 year Armin Musovic who breathed their first Beko BBL minutes. Frankfurt ended the game with four Pro B license players including Stefan Ilzhoefer and Johannes Richter while Quantez Robertson played point guard. “I was very excited to play and as the game moved on I had a feeling that I might come in. I knew that I had to be ready, play defense, give 100% and not let up. I wasn´t disappointed that I didn´t get a shot off, but more that I couldn´t play point guard, but overall I am very happy that I played”, expressed Armin Musovic. Ilzhoefer scored the last Frankfurt points with an open three pointer. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Danilo Barthel with 21 points and five rebounds. Justin Cobb contributed 17 points and dished out five assists. Johannes Voigtmann added 16 points and 12 rebounds. Sean Armand added 12 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. The Crailsheim Merlins were led by Chros Otule and Jonathan Moore with 12 points a piece. Joshiko Saibu chipped in with 11 points and Jannik Freese had 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 52% from the field and 41% from outside while Crailsheim shot 39% from the field and 33% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebounding battle 40-27, but had 15 turnovers while Crailsheim had 13 turnovers.

Vincent Bailey is a 23 year old 201cm forward that is playing his rookie season in Germany with Pro A club SC Rasta Vechta. He played at  Lincoln Memorial (NCAA2) from 2001-2014 and as a senior averaged 21,6ppg and 9,8rpg. He won the SAC Tournament in 2011 and 2014. He talked to German Hoops about basketball after the win against the Finke Baskets Paderborn..

 

Vinnie how was your first vacation back to the States over Christmas? What was your highlight besides seeing family and friends?

My first trip back to the states for Christmas was everything I thought it would be. Got a chance to re-juice myself for the second half of the season and also see my loved ones. Seeing my family was the only highlight of my trip home, that’s what the trip was for.

 

Congrats on the big 80-65 win against Paderborn. How good was it getting this win after losing that nail bitter against Hamburg shortly before Christmas?

It was a very good win for us. That Hamburg game left a bad taste in our mouths and we got it out tonight. Definitely not content with our first victory in 2015, we are hungry for more.

 

SC Rasta Vechta was on a 4 game winning streak before the loss to Hamburg. How difficult was it digesting this loss over the Christmas break?

It was difficult but we know we had a whole entire half of the season left so we had to come back focused and ready to work after the break.

 

How proud were you of this team win against Paderborn? The club controlled the game and started off the second half of the game in fine fashion. What were you most proud of that the team was able to do for 40 minutes?

We were able to play good defense for 40 mins. Coach talked about defense all week and I think we came out and had our best defensive game of the season tonight, it was a great feeling.

 

 

Chase Griffin was in the zone with 31 points. Is this the start of something very big in his game as he is the central figure on the team in the quest to move back up to the Beko BBL?

Chase has a great game and he can get going at anytime. He is a big part of the team for us to move up to the next level, everyone has their roles and knows what they have to bring every night.

 

You had a stellar game with 18 points. How great has it been having a guy like Dennis TInnon on the team when he takes some of the pressure off your game?

Its great having Dennis on the team. He brings a lot of energy to the court and he does take a lot of pressure off of me, makes it more easier to operate in the post.

 

 

Talk about how team really dominated the success tonight? The German trio of Franke, Friedel and Smit combined for 13 of the 20 assists as point guard Derek Wright was out?

Those guys had a great night and they are a big part of our team. It was great to see everyone step up with our starting point guard out tonight.

 

The German Pro A is as competitive as ever as 13 of 16 teams are currently in the playoff hunt. Vechta is 9-7 and I believe still haven´t played their best basketball yet. What goals does the team have in the second half of the season on the court to do better?

The goal for us to do better is definitely defensive, and I think tonight we showed we can be a good defensive team. We just have to keep working to reach our peak.

 

In the first half of the season you averaged 17,7ppg, 7,2rpg and 2,1apg. You scored in double figures in each game showing that consistency could be your middle name. How happy have you been with your game and what definitely has to get better in the second half?

I’ve been ok with my game. I know it’s many things I can do better so I’ll keep working everyday in practice to get there. My defense in the post can be a lot better I think, so coach pushes me to play better defensively.

 

How has the player coach relationship between you and Stephen Arigbabu grown in the last five months? Both of you are more or less rookies this season?

Our relationship has grown a lot. Him being a post in his pro career he has a lot he can teach me, so I try to take in as much as possible while on the court with him in practice.

 

How excited and how much revenge do you have for Cuxhaven and Nurnberg in the second half of the season? Which loss was more bitter?

 

I wouldn’t say one was more bitter than the other. Both losses left a bad taste in our mouths so we just want to go out and play hard to get a win.

 

If you had to choose three players on the team that stand for MVP, most improved and unsung in the first half which guys would get the Vinnie Bailey awards?

 

That’s a tough question! Everyone’s been working hard and developing day by day in the gym.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I saw was “I am legend”.

 

Thanks Vinnie for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Antonio Pena is a 28 year old 204cm power forward from Coney Island, New York who is playing his fourth professional season and first in Germany for rent4office Nuernberg. He started his basketball career at Villanova where he played from 2006-2011 playing a total of 138 NCAA games and as a senior played 33 games: 9.8ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.4%. IN 2011-2012 he came to Europe as a rookie playing for U.B. La Palma (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 34 games: 10.1ppg, 3.9rpg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 66.2%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Caceres Basket (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 35 games: 9.8ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 68.4%. Last season he played for C.B. Tizona Burgos (Spain-LEB Gold): 35 games: 9.3ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 73.1%. He spoke to German Hoops before the game against the Cuxhaven Bascats.

 

 

Antonio thanks for talking to German Hoops. You completed the first leg of a road trip to Cuxhaven for a game Saturday. How would you compare road trips in Germany to Spain in the Leb Gold league where you played the last three seasons?

 

There is a big difference. Today we had a 8 hour road trip to Cuxhaven, but those were usual road trips in Spain. In Germany we are able to leave often on game day whereas in Spain I remember only doing it once. In terms of comfort it is about the same.

 

 

 

You signed very late into the current season with Nurnberg. Were you surprised how long it took for you to find a club? How was your focus this off season in preparation for finding that right team?

 

I was disappointed that it took me so long to find a team, but very happy to have the chance to play for Nurnberg. After playing in Spain for three years I wanted a change. I always had wanted to play in Germany. I really like Germany and would like to continue to play here.

 

 

You played with current teammate Braydon Hobbs two seasons ago at Caceres Basket in Spain. Did he help you make the decision to come to Nurnberg easier?

 

Braydon helped me to make my decision easier as well as Josh Young who knows Reggie Redding. These two guys and coach helped me to make my decision easier.

 

 

You have played six games with Rent4Office Nurnberg averaging 12,0ppg, 7,0rpg and 2,0apg. It seems like you have had no real adjustment period as you have been coming to terms well with the style?

 

The German Pro A style is fitting to my game, but there is always room for growth. I continue to work hard and get better.

 

 

How would you describe the skill and player talent in the German Pro A in comparison to the Spanish Leb Gold league?

 

That is a tough question, but I would say that it is about the same. In the Leb Gold teams tend to bottom out more near the end while here all the teams tend to be good.

 

 

You are the second oldest on the team after American Dan Oppland. What exactly is your role on the team?

 

My role is to be as vocal as possible and bring it to the floor each game and play hard. Coach told me to leave it out on the floor each game.

 

 

Nurnberg is currently in fifth place with a record of 9-6 and battling to stay in the playoff range. ON what things does the team need to improve on in the second half of the season to get even higher in the standings?

 

I think that we know that we have to continue to bring it each day and just compete. We know that we are good and have to show that to the other teams in the league. I have only been here a short time and am still learning. I am embracing them and want to continue to play hard and take on my role.

 

You are a power forward that can fill up the stats sheet, but what is a hidden strength that isn´t always noticed right away on the court?

 

I like to run and play in the open court. If I don´t get the rebound then I am always trying to get out on transition.

 

 

What has been your early impression of head coach Ralph Junge? He belongs to the top German coaches in Germany for developing very young players.

 

He brings out the best in each player. I am learning new things form him each day and also he teaches us to leave it all on the floor and come back to the bench exhausted.

 

 

What has been your impression of German A-2 national player Stephan Haukohl who has been a big contributer this season like you filling up the stat sheet?

 

He has much potential. He can play and guard multiple positions. He is a good young talent and sky is the limit for him.

 

 

As a rookie you played for U.B. La Palma. What was your wake up call to being a professional your first season in Spain?

 

Taking care of my body. After morning practicing relaxing instead of doing too many other things. I also learned that basketball is having fun, but it is a job.

 

 

How did you and Lukas Sikma push each other as rookies and what NBA story will you never forget from him?

 

He told me a few stories about his dad from the NBA, but that was some time ago. He is relentless on defense and was a part of each possession. He didn´t have to score, but at the end of the game you would always be amazed what he actually did accomplish in the game. He always got it done on the court.

 

 

Last season you played with American Taylor Coppenrath at Burgos in Spain. He is playing his ninth season in Spain. I guess he has some Spain stories to tell. How did you guys compliment each other best on the court?

 

 

I played mostly the three last season, but it was nice playing with him. He was relentless on the glass. He got all his points off the offensive rebound. He was always bumping and getting the dirty work done on the court.

 

 

You had a stellar career at Villanova. Reggie Redding once told me that Dwayne Anderson was like a big brother to him. How do you have Redding and Anderson in your memory. Where do they rack in all time best teammates for you?

 

Redding is my best friend. We just talked after Alba Berlin beat FC Barcelona. I actually got the most out of Dante Cunningham. He was my mentor.

 

How proud are you of your ex teammate Reggie Redding who was always off the radar to have gone from Cyprus to Euroleague team Alba Berlin. Can he still make the next step in his career?

 

I am very proud of him. He always finds a way to get better each season in terms of his shooting, ball handling or reading the game. He is still young and has much time to do what he wants. He can still find jobs in other countries and the NBA is always a possibility. He can do so much especially guarding multiple positions.

 

 

How did Villanova head coach Jay Wright prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

He taught me to own up to my mistake and then move on to the next possession. He also taught me to play hard on each possession.

 

 

Where will the journey of the Brooklyn Nets end this season?

 

The east is a scary division. I think they will do ok and scratch for the playoffs.

 

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Lone Survivor.

 

Thanks Antonio for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chris Otule may not have been on earth in 1982 when Milwaukee, Wisconsin proclaimed Cold Sunday as the city got as freezing as -40F where even Frosty the Snowman may have waddled over to the local Walgreens to snatch himself a heater, so cold weather and frustrating snow is something that the American has been used to since he has lived six years there. Last weekend he experienced just how brutal winter can be in Germany, as the rookie left in the morning for a game in Hagen 414 kilometers away from Crailsheim, but didn´t make it in time to the game as they arrived a hour late and thus the game was awarded to Phoenix Hagen giving them their first home win despite never playing a second. “We left at 9:45am. And things just happen sometimes for reasons that can’t be explained. We just have to deal with the unfortunate situation and move forward”, stressed Chris Otule. Nothing has come easy to Chris Otule who is a 24 year old 211cm center that was born in Houston, Texas and is playing his rookie season for the Crailsheim Merlins this season. Injuries like breaking his foot twice or tearing his ACL slowed his development as a college player and playing with a prosthetic left eye wasn´t easy either as well as breaking both feet and tearing his ACL, but the American was able to withstand all hurdles. Only one part of his body has been 100% it seems. “My heart has been 100% since I have always been breathing”, stressed Chris Otule. Despite having a prosthetic left eye it hasn´t driven him back and God has kept him marching forward like a warrior. “My prosthetic left eye never gives me issues because I was born with one so it’s all I know. If I was born with two and lost one that’d be different. I’ve kept faith in God and I’m a big believer. It’s helped me stay sane and get through. God gets all the credit”, added Chris Otule. As a senior at Marquette (NCAA) he played 30 games averaging 5.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 60.2%, FT: 54.8%. Head coach Buzz Williams at Marquette was a driving force in helping Otule get by all obstacles to reach the Beko BBL. “He always told me to take advantage of every day, never let a day pass you by where you felt like you didn’t do something to get closer to your goals  Other influences are Brad Autry and Jerry Wainwright”, expressed Chris Otule. This season with Crailsheim, the American has been losing a lot while getting a touch for the Beko BBL while averaging 6,8ppg and 4,4rpg in 16,5 minutes per game. He has scored in double figures three times including a 13 point effort against the Artland Dragons. His defense is also a big part of his game and he has registered two blocks against Goettingen, TBB Trier and Artland. As a rookie he is just trying to learn the ropes especially under the basket where German veteran Jannik Freese has won the starting job after being a journey and back up player his whole career. No matter how many more games Crailsheim win this season or how many buckets and rebounds Otule grabs, he will always be an inspiration for what he has achieved with all his hardships. For kids who suffer eye ailments, Otule always has time for and too listen to what they have gone through. “All the stories have a huge impact in my life  that’s one of the reasons I play  to prove to people that no matter your “limitations” and I put quotes cause that word shouldn’t exist, you can do whatever you want in life”, added Chris Otule.

If one looks back at the last 20 years of the Crailsheim Merlins basketball history, it has been a journey of changing the level of leagues similar to how Afghani-German Achmadschah Zazai has been changing teams the last 10 years. In the late 90s, the club made a rapid surge moving up from lower leagues like the Landes Liga to the Oberliga and to the Regionaliga in 1998. They reached the second Bundesliga in 2001 where they played until 2008 where they went down to the newly established Pro B, but stayed there only two years as they moved back up to the new established Pro A in 2009. After some years in the middle of the standings, they then finished at position six in 2013 and last season moved up to the Beko BBL thanks to a second place finish. In the German Pro A final, the ylost to BG Goettingen, but automatically moved up to the Beko BBL and were able to pass all ramifications to start in the highest German league. However their start into their first beko BBL season has been tough as before Christmas had arrived had already dismissed American head coach Willie Young and Americans Jared Newson and Justin Tubbs. They went into the season with the lowest budget in the league and were able to hold 4 players from the team from last season and mostly added players to the team from lower leagues. The club held Americans Steve Johnson and Joston Crow who were important parts to the club last season as well as German role players Jonathan Moore and Andreas Kronhardt. The club added interesting pieces to this seasons puzzle with scoring point guard Garrett Sim, swing man and explosive scorer Sean Mosley, center project Chris Otule and Germans Jannik Freese and Joshiko Saibu who have been big surprises showing that when given minutes can be solid players at the Beko BBL level. The team recently signed scoring guard Chad Timberlake who has BBL experience. Crailsheim is a team that likes to play fast and aggressive basketball, but so far teams haven´t been impressed by their hungriness as most teams have been able to devour them like helps chicks lost from their mothers. After surprising the Mitteldeutscher BC in their debut 73-71 winning in crunch time, nothing has worked for them since as they have lost 12 of 13 games. They were able to somehow shove the TBB Trier defense away winning 100-84, but also lost 11 games. Defense seems to be their weak point as they have problems not giving up many points as they have given up 80 plus points in 13 of 15 games and 100 plus points twice. If they give up many points, then a loss is usually more programed as they don´t tend to sc0re much either as they have scored 80 plus points only five times this season. On top of that consistency and BBL experience is something that the team lacks and have been holding them back form success.

When looking closer at the Crailsheim roster, it is led by Sean Mosley who is a 25 year old 192cm guard from Baltimore that is playing his third professional season. He is a very good scorer, with great 1-vs-1 skills and shooting range from outside the arch. Can become a star player at European league level. Last season in his second season he made a name for La Fortezza Recanati (Italy-Lega Due Silver) playing 28 games: Score-3(19.9ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.4apg, Steals-3(1.8spg), FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 80.6%. As a rookie he played for Kotwica Kolobrzeg (Poland-TBL) playing 32 games: Score-5(15.5ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-5(1.6spg), FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 71.7%. He started his basketball career at Maryland (NCAA) where he played a total of 132 NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games: 10.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 83.5%. Garrett Sim is a 24 year old 185cm point guard from Portland, Oregon playing his third professional season. Played the point in his last collegiate season, but he can play the SG position too without any problem. Has great scoring skills and a very good outside shooting range, with quick release and a clean shooting mechanic. A smart player, has a great basketball IQ and personality. He had a solid rookie season with Science City Jena, but really had his break out season last season playing 33 games: Score-1(20.8ppg), 2.4rpg, Assists-5(5.7apg), Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 89.5%. He started his basketball career in 2008 with Oregon and played a total of 133 NCAA games and as a senior played 31 games: 12.2ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 46.2%, FT: 85.9%.

Chad Timberlake is a 31 year old 194cm point guard from Brooklyn, New York playing his ninth professional season. He is a very talented point guard with good physical size (6’4″,208 lbs.) and toughness, he can play the shooting guard position, if that is what is needed for the team. Chad is the floor general with excellent court vision and he is a natural team leader. Last season he played for Falco-Szova KC-Szombathely (Hungary-A Division) playing 30 games: 14.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 62.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 63.0%. He has gathered experience playing three years in Hungary as well as in the Czech Republic and Israel. He played at Fairleigh Dickinson (NCAA) from 2002-2006 and as a senior played 29 games: 15.2ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.1apg, 1.4spg, FG: 49.3%, 3PT: 40%, FT: 65%. Jannik Freese is a 28 year old 211center that is playing his seventh consecutive season in the Beko BBL. Jannik is a big man, that plays with his back to the basket, but who can also step out and shoot the mid-range jump shot. He is an inside force, who makes it extremely hard for any big man to score inside. He is not the typical shot blocker, that blocks the shot into the third row, but due to his length and timing alters many opponents shots. Although he is 211 cm tall, he runs the floor very well. He started his basketball career in 2005 for SG FT/MTV Braunschweig (2.Bundesliga) and also played 6 Beko BBL games for Braunschweig. He then played for Giessen from 2008-2011 and with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg from 2011-2014. Two seasons ago he played 58 games for Oldenburg. Last season for Oldenburg he played Eurocup: 8 games: 4.0ppg, 1.4rpg; German League: 34 games: 1.7ppg, 1.7rpg. Joshiko Saibu is a 24 year old 188cm point guard playing his third season in the Beko BBL. He started his basketball career in 2008 for ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga). In the 2010-2011 season he played for Alba Berlin and their Pro B team playing 2 Beko BBL games and 2 Eurocup games. He played for TBB Trier from 2011-2013 and last season for the LTi Giessen 46ers (ProA) playing 38 games: 13.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 67.2%. He loves to penetrate and is a hard nosed defender at all times. Josten Crow is a 27 year old 193cm swing man from Spring, Texas playing his third professional season and third for Crailsheim. Last season for Crailsheim he played 39 games: 8.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 76.8%. He played at Sam Houston St. (NCAA) playing a total of 115 NCAA games and as a senior played 31 games: 12.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 70.0%. Crow is a guy that does a little of everything very well, but nothing perfect.

Steve Johnson is a 36 year old 198cm forward American playing his 14^th professional season and third with Crailsheim. He is a multi-talented athlete who can play a multitude of positions. Has an NBA body that can defend almost any player on the court. Can overpower opponents 1 on 1 scoring outside or inside. Gives 100% all the time and can carry a team with scoring and defensive abilities. Great at utilizing his strength on offensive and defensive boards. He played at Iowa State from 1996-2000. Since being a professional he has played in Spain for seven years and three years in Iceland and one season in Argentina. Last season for Crailsheim he played 35 games: 13.1ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 65.4%, FT: 61.9%. He won three titles in Spain. Jonathan Moore is a 32 year old 203cm forward playing his 10^th professional season and third with Crailsheim. He has Beko BBL experience with TBB Trier and Bremerhaven. He started his basketball career at East Carolina(NCAA) and then played two seasons at NC Central(NCAA2).Since turning professional he has had experience playing in the D-League, in Iceland and Sweden and for German teams Bayreuth and BG Karlsruhe. Last season for Crailsheim he played 38 games: 13.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 77.3%.He is a very athletic player that can hit the jump shot or take his man off the dribble. Andreas Kronhardt is a 25 year old 205cm center playing his second season for Crailsheim and last season played 36 games: 5.8ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 54.9%. He started his basketball career with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen in 2008 and played 6 Beko BBL games and stayed until 2010. Then he played for teams like Vechta, Leitershofen and Schwelm. He is a mobile big man that can dance in the paint. Max Rockmann is a 26 year old 198cm forward that started his basketball career in 2003 with Marzahn Basket Baeren (2. Regionalliga). He then played three seasons for TUS Lichterfelde Berlin. He got experience in the States with UMKC (NCAA) playing 34 NCAA games. He then came back to Germany and played for Phoenix Hagne playing 20 Beko BBL games and played for Cuxhaven and Kirchheim where last season he played 28 games: 11.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 82.2%. Young Germans Philipp Heilrath, Julian Gais and Alassante Dioubate round out the roster. The Fraport Skyliners host the Crailsheim Merlins on January 4^th.