Maurice Acker is a 27 year old 176cm point guard that was born in Kansas City, Kansas, but grew up in Hazelcrest, Illinois and is playing his first season for the Bakken Bears (Denmark-Ligaen). He started his basketball career in 2005 at Ball St and then moved on to Marquette (NCAA) where he played from 2007-2010 and as a senior played 34 games: 8.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 49.5%, FT: 72.7%. Concluded the season season ranked second in the nation and first in the BIG EAST in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.1). Led the BIG EAST in 3-point field goal percentage (.495). He started his basketball career in 2011 with Bucaneros de La Guaira (Venezuela-LPB): (Elimination Round) 15 games: 8.2ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, 2PT: 40.0%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 92.0%. In 2011 he also played for Quebec Kebs (Canada-PBL): 18 games: 8.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 80.0%. In the 2011-2012 season he moved to Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie) playing 31 games: 14.0ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-3(4.1apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 79.3%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Trefl Sopot (Poland-TBL, starting five): 4 games: 10.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, then signed at BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five): 37 games: Score-1(23.9ppg), 2.5rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 84.4%. Last season he played for Denain ASC Voltaire (France-ProB, starting five): 42 games: Score-4(17.0ppg), 2.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 88.8%. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurochallenge game against the Fraport Skyliners.

 

Thanks Maurice for talking to German Hoops. Is this your first time in Germany? What do you know about the country?

Before coming to Frankfurt yesterday, I once flew in to Berlin, but that has been about it. I know that basketball is huge in Germany and is respected in Europe. I have also heard that the BBL is one of the top leagues in Europe and that it is a good environment to play in.

 

 

You are playing your first season for Bakken Bears (Denmark-Ligaen). Your also playing your second international club game. You lost to Boras 86-79 and you chipped in with 16 points. How did it feel playing this type of basketball?

It was exciting to play my first international game against Boras. The result wasn´t to my liking, but I believe that we got better and will be ready for Frankfurt tonight.

 

 

You are playing in your fifth professional season, but for your seventh team. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter?

Yes I do feel sort of like a basketball globetrotter because I have been around. I enjoy this life style and have gotten used to the travel, learning new cultures and teams. It is part of the game.

 

You are playing your first season in Denmark for Bakken who are number one in the Danish league. You have been a scorer almost your whole professional career. What is exactly your role with Bakken?

My role is to do pretty much what I have been doing my whole career is first off getting my team involved and later if necessary do the scoring to help my team win.

 

You played in many countries like Canada, Venezuela, Holland,Poland, Slovakia and France. How difficult is it to get used to a new style and level?

 

It isn´t always easy to adapt to a new level and style and it can be frustrating, but at end of day it is part of game and you always find a way to adjust.

 

 

You are a scoring point guard, but can also set up your teammates as two seasons ago you led the league in Slovakia with 6,7apg. What is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away? Perhaps your assist to turn over ratio?

I think a hidden strength is getting my team involved. I feel that I get more credit for being able to score. I usually try to get my team involved early and later do what is needed to win the game with scoring.

 

You are a 176cm guard. Which smaller type NBA player was always your role model growing up as a kid?

As a kid, I really enjoyed watching Allen Iverson play. I liked how he didn´t back down against nobody even if they were bigger. He always played with a chip on his shoulder and I liked that.

 

You started your basketball career at Ball St and as a freshman played 28 games: 9.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.6apg, 1.5spg, FG: 32.6%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 79.6%. You then sat out due to NCAA transfer rules and finished at Marquette from 2007-2010. How difficult was this season not being able to play?

Sitting out my second year at Marquette was the most difficult time in my career. Just being at practice, but not playing games was tough. I got better in this year and I learned a lot from my teammate Dominic James. I did many extra work outs to get better. In the end it was tough, but worth it.

 

You played 102 NCAA games and as a senior played 34 games: 8.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 49.5%, FT: 72.7%. Concluded the season season ranked second in the nation and first in the BIG EAST in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.1). Led the BIG EAST in 3-point field goal percentage (.495). How did Buzz Williams get you prepared best for a professional basketball career?

 

He really did a lot for me. His practices were always very hard and pushed the players. He was big on team basketball and wanted us to be leaders and that we should help each other. Coach Williams was also big on life issues which I feel has helped me adapt to life better in Europe.

You played together with many future NBA players like Lazar Hayward, Wesley Matthews, Jerel Mcneil, Jimmy Butler or Dwight Buycks. Why do you think wasn´t Marquette able to make more noise in the NCAA tournament in those years?

I think that in the years that I was there that the level was so much higher in the NCAA than now. There were many good players that went through the NBA draft.

 

You played with many great players at Marquette that went to the NBA. Which player left the most lasting impact on you?

 

Wesley Matthews left the biggest impact on me. He was a player that really didn´t get as much exposure as he should of. I will never forget his work ethic which was unbelievable. A reason he got to the NBA is because he outworked everyone else. I tried to take as much as I could from his game.

 

 

 

You also played with Chris Otule who only has vision in one eye. How did you take that whole experience with him at Marquette and what was your fondest memory with him in school and on the court?

Chris was one of the most genuine guys ever. He was always happy and in a good mood. He worked so hard on the court and you would never have thought that he only had vision in one eye. He was so smart and picked up different traits that helped him work around his disability on the court. He was a tough inside presence as hardly any one could stop him. He was one of the toughest players that I ever played with.

 

You came to Europe in 2011 and played for Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie). What was your welcome to Europe experience in terms of basketball in Holland?

Just being away from home and being so far away in a different country. Off the court toughest was having to know words and phrases just to be able to buy groceries and on the court all the different systems. I recognized quickly that the game is more structured in Europe.

 

 

Two seasons ago you played briefly for Trefl Sopot (Poland-TBL)4 games: 10.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg, What memories do you have of German/polish talent David Bremblay?

I remember David as a very good shooter and play very hard on defense. He was a good kid.

 

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Semaj Inge?

We play almost every day and it goes back and forth.

 

 

Who was the best player that you had to defend in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

 

The best player that I played against was Kemba Walker. I played him a few times. One game I played ok scoring something like eight points and another time had 16 points and five assists.

 

 

Where will the journey of the Chicago Bulls end this season?

 

They will have a good season if they stay healthy.

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Friday.

 

Thanks Maurice for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Janek Schmidkunz is a 24 year old 183cm point guard that is playing his first season for the MLP Academics Heidelberg (ProA). He started his basketball career with Central Hoops Berlin (Regionalliga) in 2008. He then also got further experience at ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga). He then went to the states and played at Amer.Internat. (NCAA2) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 86 NCAA games and as a senior played 26 games: 10.9ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 61.5%. He spoke to German Hoops recently before the start of the season.

Janek thanks for talking to German Hoops. Where are you at the moment and how have you been enjoying your summer?

Right now I am in Berlin, my hometown, being with my family and friends. Its been a great summer so far. The transition from living four years on the east coast and now starting off a new chapter in my life has been hard but extremely exciting as well. Besides enjoying my time spent in the gym, weight room and running, I also make sure to catch up with first my family, but also my friends. Overall, I am happy to be back home in Germany.

You have been away in the United States for four years playing at Amer.Internat. (NCAA2) Now you are coming back to Germany to start your professional basketball career? Did time fly in your college experience?

First off, I can’t believe how fast time has gone by and I already know that I am gonna miss going back to AIC’s campus and get ready to work my butt off in pre season and seeing my friends. But I knew early on that my path will head back to Germany and therefore, I was somewhat prepared for the transition.

What were the main reasons for coming to the MLP Academics Heidelberg? What sold you on coming to this Pro A team?

What sold me was several reasons. For one, Heidelberg has such tradition as a basketball organization and it’s an established brand in Germany. I am confident that I will take my game to the next level under Coach Ignjatovic and his staff and I am grateful to be given this opportunity. Also, I fell in love with the city when I first visited in June and the addition of the perfect training and practice environment made the decision easy. It is for a reason that it is one of Germany’s Olympic bases. Last but not least I am rejoining a very good friend of mine, Nico Adamczak. I played with Nico for the first time when I was 11 or 12 and from then on we became close friends and continued playing for Berlins select team. It makes the transition much easier having Nico as a teammate once again.

When you came to the States you had just played for ALBA Berlin II (Regionalliga) playing 17 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 1.9apg, 1.5rpg. There your coach was NCAA champion Henrik Rodl and your teammate was future NCAA winner Niels Giffey. How has your game developed in the last four years in the States?

I have been able to improve as an overall player and because my coach, Art Luptowski, was a very defensive minded coach I made lots of improvements in that regard. Through lots of individual workouts I got better in shooting off the dribble and ball handling. Would one say that you are more a point guard or combo guard? When looking at your stats, one doesn´t notice very high assist stats? I definitely define myself as a combo guard. It makes me flexible in terms of where coach can put me and use me on the court. My assists have been down, but it’s definitely an aspect of my game I am trying to utilize more.

You shot over 40% from outside twice in your college career and if you were to describe that one quality in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away what would you say it is?

A trait in your game that goes unnoticed? Besides my low turnover ratio in the past years I think that my team player skills are not noticeable when looking at the stats. I am trying to keep my errors low but still take smart risks on the court. I think my feeling and understanding of the game is something my past coaches have always valued me for.

If you look back at your season with Niels Giffey at Alba Berlin(Reg) would you ever have thought that he would have developed so well in the NCAA?

Not all German players have had luck with their careers in the States. I would say I knew that he was going do well. Not saying I knew he was going win two championships but I knew that he would be valued highly as a ball player. Playing with Niels was amazing but playing against Niels (three times with AIC vs UConn) was rough. He shined a lot in his senior year but I thought he was a vital part for UConn all four years. It’s true that not all German players succeed in the states, but then not all German players are as gifted and passionate about the game as Niels. The guy worked hard and he got what he deserved.

How did Artur Luptowski help shape your game and made you into the player that you are now ready to attack the pro game? What was the most important thing he has given you on and off the court?

First, coach Luptowski shaped me a lot mentally. He made me “tougher”. I mentioned some aspects above but when trying to summarize his impact two things come to mind: defense and mental toughness. He trusted me on the court and thought of me as a leader of our team. Besides all the basketball, I had a good relationship with coach and he helped me through a lot of hard personal times and was always there for us players. I am grateful for that and happy that he made it to the next level now working as a head scout with the Detroit Pistons. Congrats to him at this point again.

Your ex teammate Bobby Harris had a very solid senior season. How did you guys make each other better on and off the court?

Bobby was a tough matchup in practice and for the opponent teams. It was tough that we had to play without him for the last few games. But with his transfer to AIC, I had another guy in practice that made me better and another teammate that helped us win games. But I don’t want to highlight one teammate, I had one of the best teammates in the world the past four years and I am sad that so few continued on playing. I miss those guys a lot. Bobby still has another year by the way and I am going follow them closely.

In your four years living in Springfield how often would you say did you visit the basketball Hall Of fame and what is your favorite exhibit to see in the Hall of Fame?

Three times to be exact. Sad thing was that it took me two years to realize how amazing it is that I played and lived in the city where basketball was created. The best exhibit was the historic part of the hall of fame, basketball’s first steps and the development of what is now one of the worlds most popular sports. It’s a must see museum for anyone that is in the area.

How does a normal Janek Schmidkunz work out day look like in the summer on and off the court?

I get up early, always! First workout is the lifting after a good breakfast. I added Pilates as a workout this year and it has been helpful. In the afternoon I hit the gym and work on my basketball skills. Every other day I go for a run or swim to improve my cardio. I am a big fan of doing other sports in the summer (tennis, beach volleyball or some soccer) because I think it is important to be diverse and try different things. Off the court, I am a big family guy. Spending time with them is the best. Seeing friends is a must for me as well, especially knowing that I am leaving town so soon.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

I watched “the life of David Gale” and it was a good flick. I am a huge Kevin Spacey fan.

 

Thanks Janek for the chat.

 

Jason Boone is a 29 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York That is playing this season for Torku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (Turkey-TBL) He played three seasons with the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and last season played 28 games averaging 8,4ppg and 4,1rpg. He played three seasons for BG Goettingen. He played at New York University(NCAA 3) from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 28 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.4bpg, 2.9apg, FG: 63.0%, FT: 64.3%. In 2007-2008, he played at Bernau(Regionalliga) before making the jump up three leagues to MEG Goettingen. In 2008-2009, he averaged 4.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FG: 53.7. In 2009-2010, he won the Eurochallenge playing EuroChallenge: 16 games: 10.7ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 53.8%; German League: 35 games: 9.1ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 60.3%, FT: 55.9%. He spoke to German Hoops about his new basketball experience in Turkey.

 

 

Jason thanks for talking to German Hoops You are playing your first season in Turkey for after 7 seasons in Germany. How strange was it leaving a country that was like a second home for you?

The decision to leave Germany didn’t come easy. I took a lot of time weighing the pros and cons. But I’ve always been one that needs to break out of my comfort zone to grow as a person. And that was definitely something I was going to have to do this year.

 

What has been the biggest adjustment for you on and off the court? Is English as widely known around the city as it was in rural Germany in places like Goettingen and Wurzburg?

Basketball is basketball. On the court the only real adjustment has been in the playing style of our head coach. He demands more of me than any other coach I’ve ever played for and his excitement about the game of basketball is contagious. Off the court, Konya is very different from anywhere I’ve ever lived. The biggest difference from Germany however is the traffic rules. Or lack thereof. It’s a free-for-all out here in these streets.

You are 29 years old and in your 8th season. Depending on who you talk to being in your prime can range from 23-27 years of age. Where do you see your self basketball wise now at age 29. Are you in your prime now?

I still feel like I can be a very efficient player out on the court. My knowledge of the game is higher than it’s ever been and I still can rely on speed and athleticism when I need to. Staying healthy is the key, but if I can manage that, I can see myself at the top of my game for a few more years.

 

How thrilled are you to be able to make this new basketball experience in Turkey. Without having played all the teams yet, but looking at the top Turkish teams of Efes, Besiktas, Galatasaray and Ulker where do you feel is more talent stacked among these teams and the top 4 in Germany?

 

I’m just excited to be able to play basketball every day. Far too often people don’t appreciate this career until it’s all over. I don’t want to be one of those guys. Like you said, I haven’t played against many Turkish teams yet but I got to watch a lot of them play during the Turkish Cup. And I can definitely say, without any doubt, that Turkey is one of the best, if not, the best league in Europe this year.

After playing mostly in Germany with Americans and Germans, now your playing with mostly Americans and Turkish players. What has been your experience playing for Torku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (Turkey-TBL)? How is the talent level for Turkish players?

 

We rely on our imports for a lot of minutes and production but the Turkish players that we have are extremely talented and hard working. We have a veteran group of smart players and it’s evident by how quickly we’ve gelled this season.

After three games you are averaging 8,3ppg and 3,3rpg. What exactly is your role on the team. You come off the bench for bangers like Sean Williams and RT Guinn.

My job duties haven’t changed much from my days in Germany. Bringing a sense of toughness on defense and a high efficiency on offense. I’m also playing minutes at the PF this year so I’ve had to really focus on defensive principles I wasn’t used to.

 

In the 88-81 win against Tofas you played against Dashaun Wood who played many years in the Beko BBL and played against you? The 2011 BBL MVP had 27 points. Is this a league that is suited for his game and could he be a scoring leader in the TBL?

He’s a very capable scorer but we were able to limit him getting other players involved and it worked to our advantage. This league is full of very good point guards so he’s going to have his hands full on a nightly basis. He won’t lead this league in scoring but he’ll have, on paper, a very good year.

 

Your teammate Sean Williams has been in beast mode so far averaging 14,7ppg and 11,0rpg. He made it into the NBA early and since then has been in Europe and always trying to get back. His work ethic has been questionable at times. Do you think that he has matured mentally and with his play with time and experience?

Sean is an incredible talent. Playing against him every day in practice, I’ve gotten to see his ability to take over on offense and his knack for perfect timing on defense. I don’t have an “immature Sean” to compare him to but like I’ve stated before, we have a veteran group of guys so we haven’t had to deal with any problems you run into with younger or immature players.

When Troy DeVries was a rookie with BG Karlsruhe in 2005, you were a junior at New York university. He has been a real warrior playing in 6 countries and even played in the (Spain-Liga Endesa). He seems to have gotten better with age. Is he a good example of how constant hard work is essential for having a long and successful career?

I can’t say enough about Troy. He’s one of the best teammates I’ve ever played with. He understands what it takes to win and really has fun out there on the court. He’s dealt with a few career threatening injuries but has always managed to bounce back stronger. He’s a real testament to what a true professional athlete should be.

 

Talk a little about the new Turkish culture you have been encountering. Konya has a population of 1,1 million people and is rich with history. How much have you been able to explore and what has amazed you about your new city where you live?

I’ve heard that Konya is very different than other parts of Turkey. It’s a very high population of conservative Muslims and maybe that’s why socially I haven’t found nearly as many things to do as in Germany. But the fans are great and I’m adjusting pretty well. I just started taking a few Turkish lessons and understanding the German language opened so many doors there, that I feel like learning some Turkish will do the same.

Your exteammate John Little is the only ex Goettingen player of the three amigos of you and Ben Jacobson that is playing for a third team with John Patrick. If all four of you could be reunited again on a team besides Goettingen or Wurzburg where would it be?

Your theoretical questions get better year by year. I would have to say that the best bet would be Ludwigsburg, although I don’t know how good I look in yellow. Wherever we ended up, we would be successful though. Our track record has proven that.

Where will the journey of the New York Knicks end this season in the NBA? How do you see their chances in the east?

I like Phil Jackson behind the scenes, I like the way Carmelo has looked thus far. They have a lot of improving to do if they want to be serious about competing but they have the tools to be relevant. I think they are still one or two pieces away from beating the Chicago’s and Cleveland’s on their way to a title.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

I’m currently watching the final season of HBO’s The Sopranos. I’m not sure why it’s taken me this long to watch this series. Very entertaining.

 

Thanks Jason for the chat.

 

It seems like ages when the well liked Canadian Jermaine Bucknor was wearing a Frankfurt jersey and nailing three pointers and presenting that wide smile that one could recognize even halfway to Hochst train station even when a Dashaun Wood snuck into the zone with another fascination penetration move for two quick points and then had to be careful not to slip on the latest jock strap that he had left behind from his man. However the presence of Bucknor back in the Fraport arena was a beautiful thing, but it seemed almost like it was a minor detail to the game as fans were too worried about the current situation of the 2004 German BBL champion. This season has been anything but easy as many had the 2010 BBL finalist as a team that would be fighting for the playoffs and ending games with more points than their opponent, but coming into the game with TBB Trier had a 1-6 record and it seemed were like a basketball team that was on a hiking trip on the Feld Hill outside Frankfurt had gone off course and had fallen into a hidden fox den with no ladder in sight. It wasn´t 10 to midnight in basketball Frankfurt, but 30 seconds before midnight as the BBL season of the 2010 BBL cup winner seemed to be on the line between a season fight to escape the BBL cellar or finding a start out of the fox den and back to their winning ways. The Fraport Skyliners entered the game not only having lost their first three games of the season, then presenting their best game of the season with a well deserved home win against the Telekom Baskets Bonn, but then losing three games on the road, and an embarrassing 94-59 defeat in the opening game of the Eurochallenge in Belgium against Aalstar where a bitter 38-11 second quarter by the host team sealed the loss for Gordon Herbert and his players. A day after the loss in Belgium, Skyliner forward Danilo Barthel was quoted as saying that head coach Gordon Herbert hadn´t lost his coaching magic and he was right as the Fraport Skyliners found back to their old self digging their own imaginary fox hole on the court and keeping TBB trapped inside as they stifled their offense and out worked them 65-57 and ending their four game losing streak. Injured Fraport Skyliner center Mike Morrison watched the game from the sidelines nursing an injury and one could see that he had gone through a lot on the bench cheering on the team as he was sporting wet sweat marks around his arm pits on his shirt. “This was a huge win and our home crowd was great supporting us. We have been focused all season long, but we just hadn´t been able to connect the pieces. Our offense still needs work, but defense wins games”, warned Florida native Mike Morrison. One could sense that Canadian and ex Skyliner Jermaine Bucknor had been missed as he connected with many from the Skyliner family after the game and his disappointment after 40 minutes was written all over his face even if his Mohawk haircut tried to shield his pain. “You know Miles this was a must win for both teams. It really doesn´t matter who you play in this league, anybody can beat you from top to bottom. Winning on the road is made even more difficult. I felt that we did a decent job on defense making Frankfurt take tough shots, but Frankfurt played as if their life was on the line. They battled so hard even though they had injured players and found a way to beat us. They hurt us with their rebounding”, stressed ex s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg forward Jermaine Bucknor.

The Fraport Skyliners came into the game with six healthy players and six Pro B players on the bench waiting for their chance to get their moment like Canadian Kyle Fossmann who made his Beko BBL debut playing 1.05 minutes and Stefan Ilzhoefer also found action playing 1.29 minutes. TBB Trier got on the board first as ex medi Bayreuth center Stefan Schmidt nailed a mid distance jumper and Bosnian Adin Vrabac hit a runner. Frankfurt got into their offensive sets well, but Quantez Robertson and Danilo Barthel missed easy shots. The Fraport Skyliners then got their first points as German national player Johannes Voigtmann showed his stellar big man passing skills finding ex Iona(NCAA) guard Sean Armand for the back door pass and lay in. Frankfurt did a good job keeping the two TBB Trier scorers and Canada connection Jermaine and Jermaine Bucknor and Anderson idle, but got sound production from Vrabac as he made a free throw and then scored inside as TBB Trier extended their lead to 7-3. However it was only a matter of time before the Fraport Skyliners would start hitting shots as the ball movement was there and they suddenly rushed out on a crushing 12-0 run to take the 15-7 lead. In this stellar run, Frankfurt got production from four different individuals. Voigtmann started the run with a difficult step back three pointer as the shot clock was winding down and would end the run with a lay in after getting fed by Robertson. Robertson made an amazing spin move so rapidly around Stefan Schmidt that he was looking where exactly he had lost his jock strap, Danilo Barthel made a running lay up and Richard Williams nailed a three pointer. Frankfurt did a great job being very aggressive on defense getting many hands on balls. The first quarter was the run quarter as TBB Trier didn´t back away and followed Frankfurt with their own run of 7-0 to cut the Frankfurt lead to 15-14. TBB Trier got some big three pointers from Laurynas Samenas and Adin Vrbac and Max Merz missing two free throws didn´t help the Frankfurt offensive cause. However Frankfurt halted the TBB Trier run and ended the first quarter with the momentum with a 6-2 run and led 21-16 after 10 minutes. In the run Frankfurt got buckets from Barthel and from Robertson who went coast to coast. “Frankfurt had the focus and intensity from the jump ball, but just didn´t hit shots. When they did find their rhythm, they went hard and found each other on offense. Frankfurt did a good job closing down Bucknor and Anderson and the lane not letting Trier penetrate”, stressed TV Lich guard Jermel Jones. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 62% from the field and 50% from outside while TBB Trier was shooting 45% from the field and 40% from outside. Frankfurt had the nine to five rebound edge, but five turnovers while TBB Trier had four turnovers.

In the second quarter, the Fraport Skyliners kept their nose ahead, but could never fully get away from TBB Trier as they hung around going into half time. TBB Trier got on the board first as German Dennis Kramer who was picked up a few days ago after starting the season with Baunach after a solid NCAA career at San Diego(NCAA) got his first professional points hitting a three pointer and finding nothing but net. After Barthel hit one free throw to give Frankfurt the 22-19 advantage, fans saw some blood as the court resembled a boxing ring more than a basketball court as Skyliner guard Max Merz got an elbow to the face from Marko Lukovic and had to depart, but came back in the third quarter. Lukovic was hit with an unsportsmanlike foul, but Armand missed both shots. “I don´t think that that elbow from Lukovic on Merz was intentional. Lukovic was playing and as he turned, the head of Merz was just there and his elbow moved and he got hit”, stressed Jermel Jones. The Merz blood motivated Frankfurt as they hit massive three pointers from Williams and Canadian Aaron Doornekamp, but TBB Trier retaliated with an Anthony Canty jumper and Vitalis Chikoko as Frankfurt led 28-23. Frankfurt was on the midst of an 8-2 run and got added production from Voigtmann with a lay in and thunderous Barthel one handed dunk after he made a quick steal and went coast to coast. TBB Trier continued to fight back always chipping away at the Frankfurt lead and went on a 5-1 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 33-28. Frankfurt continued to shut down Bucknor in the scoring department, but the ex Richmond(NCAA) player was so valuable in other areas. He made a quick feed to Mathis Monninghof for the lay in, then made two steals. Ex Bamberg guard Jermaine Anderson then made a crisp lob pass to Chikoko for the easy bucket. “We have so many scorers on the team. I don´t care if I score or not. I am happy if I can create for my teammates and just make the right plays”, stressed top assist man of the game Jermaine Bucknor who had six. Bucknor then would make the only bucket of the game hitting a very tough off balance shot that was helped by the back board. Anderson followed with a fade away jumper and Frankfurt led only 35-32. The Fraport Skyliners then closed out the second quarter in fine fashion ending it on a 6-0 run to lead 41-32 at the break. Sean Armand made an incredible jumper with one second on the clock and Richard Williams made a cross over then split the defense for the lay in. “TBB Trier was doing a great job staying with Frankfurt and just fighting back. Frankfurt was defending well , but TBB Trier made tough shots and there is nothing you can do. Williams really got it going. He got the team going on offense and transition. That lay up at the end where he split two defenders was nice”, added TV Lich American Jermel Jones. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 56% from the field and 40% from the three point line while TBB Trier was shooting 54% from the field and 50% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the 17-10 rebound edge and both teams had seven turnovers a piece.

Many like myself had predicted this too be an ugly defensive orientated old fashioned basketball game played in the trenches with head coaches Gordon Herbert and 1993 NCAA champion with North Carolina Henrik Roedl working the whips, but after both teams were scoring in the first half, it seemed like it would continue, but instead the game became more defensive as less points were made, and Frankfurt still were in command of the game and had the lead. After the blow to his head in the second quarter, Merz was back in the third quarter and witnessed as ex Braunschweig forward Aaron Doornekamp hit a three pointer. Chikoko followed with a lay in after getting a perfect feed from Bucknor in traffic who could have finished himself, but opted to give the better positioned man the ball as Frankfurt still led 44-39. With seven minutes remaining in the third quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were hit with their fifth team foul. However the opponent didn´t use this to their advantage as TBB Trier only scored three more points in the third quarter. After Chikoko made one free throw, it was Robertson who made a lay in and then followed with a three pointer as Frankfurt extended their lead to 49-40. A few minutes passed with both teams missing tough shots as both sides heightened their defense and both teams were hit with frequent turnovers. Anderson then nailed a jumper with two seconds remaining on the shot clock as Frankfurt led 49-42. Frankfurt closed out the scoring with a Robertson free throw and Williams ended the third quarter with a lay in as time expired as the Fraport Skyliners had the 52-42 advantage. “After getting our fifth team foul early, we set up our defense so that they had to shoot over us and not letting them drive”, added Mike Morrison. “With Frankfurt getting that fifth team foul early, we had a great chance to get to the foul line often, but didn´t because we didn´t do a good job executing and utilizing the situation. In this league, it is vital to do that to be successful”, warned Jermaine Bucknor. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 46% from the field and 35% from the parking lot while TBB Trier was shooting 47% from the field and 36% from the parking lot. Frankfurt had the 24-20 rebound lead, but only 10 turnovers while TBB Trier had 15 turnovers.

The game remained a defensive combat, but the Fraport Skyliners hit the clutch shots while TBB Trier didn´t which was key in the end for the home team winning. It took both teams two minutes before either team scored as Anderson scored a bucket inside cutting the Frankfurt lead to 52-44. However the Fraport Skyliners then found some offensive spark going on a 8-2 run to lead 60-46 as this pretty much put the club near the winners circle as the only thing missing were some free throws at the end to seal the win. In the run, Robertson did what he does best using his athletic strength by scoring inside. He then hit a free throw. Williams followed with a perfectly timed San Diego style floater from the base line over an outstretched Chikoko and Doornekmap ended the run with a jumper and free throw. Williams and Doornekamp could have debated who had the prettiest shot of the game as Williams had had that beautiful penetration cross over splitting the defense shot in the first half, while Doornekamp hit an amazing off balance shot while falling to the ground backwards somehow getting the shot off. As he fell backwards hitting the ground, he did an incredible feat that perhaps only Canadians know how do since there is always an abundance of snow as he slid backwards as if the white soft stuff had been groomed on the Fraport arena floor especially just for him. “Aaron got a tough rebound and then made a shot falling back. Looked like he was going snowboarding as he was sliding backwards”, smiled Cincinnati native Quantez Robertson. With a few minutes left, TBB Trier made one last run ending the game on a 9-3 run, but it was too little too late as they ran out of time. TBB Trier got an Anderson step back jumper and Chikoko three pointer, but Frankfurt got insurance free throws from Williams and Armand putting the game out of reach for TBB Trier. “The second half was stressful to watch. IT was crazy how one half we hit everything and the second half nothing. We had the lead in the fourth quarter and our point guards did a good job dealing with the press. We didn´t get turnovers, got stops and used the whole shot clock”, added Mike Morrsion. “Key for getting the win was our team moral and having confidence. We got the win with effort and concentration. We weren´t perfect on offense or defense, but our intensity and aggressiveness made up for our lack of execution”, expressed Richard Williams.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Richard Williams with 17 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Quantez Robertson chipped in with 15 points, four rebounds and four steals. Johannes Voigtmann and Aaron Doornekamp added nine points a piece. TBB Trier was led by Vitalis Chikoko with 15 points. Jermaine Anderson added 12 points and Adin Vrbacc chipped in with 10 points. The Fraport Skyliners finished shooting 39% from the field and 26% from outside while TBB Trier shot 45% from the field and 31% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebounding battle 36-29 and had 15 turnovers while TBB Trier had 20 turnovers. After a slow start from American point guard Richard Williams this season who wasn´t totally healthy, he is slowly starting to find his old self. Last weekend he hit the Artland Dragons with 20 points and against TBB Trier one could see that the old Richie Williams is coming out of his shell as his offensive presence is greater than in the previous weeks as his confidence is rising with every new good game and hitting buckets is on the menu again. Williams knows now how to control his mind something he couldn´t do previously. “I have a new approach to the game. Previously I was too worried about what coach wanted to see and I was thinking too much on the court. Now I am thinking less and just being myself. I am letting my instincts take over”, warned Richard Williams. The Fraport Skyliners next entertain Danish team Bakken in their first Eurochallenge home game on Wednesday November 12.

 

 

You have those American players that love to globetrot in their career all over Europe fetching one year deals and learning a new culture while playing the game they cherish while there are those Americans that start in a country begin to love it there and never leave and just continue to ball until their body says no more. Guys like Immanuel Mcelroy of Braunschweig has played in Germany over 10 years for only three teams Cologne and Berlin or a Kyle Visser who has been in Germany since coming out of Wake Forest and is the heart and soul of the Braunschweig squad. Then again you also have a Chase Griffin who turned professional in 2007 and except for one season in Finland has played his whole career in Germany. He is starting his seventh season in Germany after having played for Phoenix Hagen for three years, one in Giessen and the last two in Gotha where his range from the parking lot was exceptional over 40% each season. The Washington native may be known for being a great shooter, but for the hardcore basketball fans remember his acting debut in the classic German basketball documentary Phoenix In Der Asche where the intense meeting between him and Michael Jordan displayed just what goes on behind the scenes of a basketball club where two ego´s are clashing. The two actually were teammates the following year after their basketball Oscar like moment playing for the Giessen 46ers and like their season in Hagen losing was the norm something that seemed to accompany them to Hessen. Griffin was back in Giessen last season with Gotha and celebrated a dramatic 91-89 OT win where he steered 25 points for the victory. Griffin returned back to Giessen for a second time in the Pro A and wanted to help snap the three games Giessen winning streak, but SC Rasta Vechta had tremendous problems having good starts in three of four quarters, couldn´t handle Cameron Wells and had to play come back basketball all night long which failed as Giessen won their fourth home game in a row 85-76 as SC Rasta Vechta remained winless on the road. “It is always nice to come back to paly ex teams and I can remember the OT with Gotha last season. It was always a great environment to play here, and tonight it was that again, but we had no flow, no rhythm and Giessen played good defense”, stressed Washington native Chase Griffin. The Giessen 46ers continue to play strong and high spirited basketball as they have won now six of their last seven games and are climbing higher and higher in the standings. “We did a good job focusing on the game plan and we played very good defense. We did a good job getting back, playing one on one defense keeping your guy out in front and also help side. Our good starts also were key. In the past when we have started bad, it usually took us 5-10 minutes to get into the game. When we start well, we move the ball better, are on the same page, execute better and the communication is there”, added Giessen 46er American Andre Marhold.

The Giessen 46ers were without Jonathan Malu who has knee problems and SC Rasta Vechta were without Amir Carraway. Giessen came out with an extra burst of energy as if they had extra Red Bull drinks before the game going on a 9-2 run. American Cameron Wells got going early scoring twice with a floater and lay in easily getting around German Fabian Franke and Cuban Yorman Polas used his athletic ability to score inside and Benjamin Lischka nailed a pretty running hook shot. Giessen got into rhythm fast and were making smart decisions while SC Rasta Vechta were getting good looks on offense, but just not getting their shots to fall. After SC Rasta Vechta head coach Stephan Arigbabu who played 7 seasons in Greece took a time out, it was Los Angeles native Derek Wright who took the coaches words to heart and rallied the team back into the game with a 8-3 run to cut the Giessen lead to 12-10. Wright nailed two three pointer and rookie Vincent Bailey grabbed an offense rebound and made a put back. The first quarter remained a quarter of runs as Giessen pull ed away again with a 7-2 run as Giessen continued to spread the ball around well getting scoring punch from Philadelphia native TJ DiLeo with a three pointer, A Benjamin Lischka lay in and Bjoern Schoo mid distance jumper as Giessen led 19-12. SC Rasta Vechta stayed on the heels of Giessen continuing to rally as Oliver Mackeldanz scored inside, and ex Oldenburg point guard Kevin Smit hit a timely three pointer. Wells set the exclamation point for the end of the first quarter with a last second shot as Giessen led 23-17 after 10 minutes. “We weren´t ready at all with our bad start. We wanted to be the aggressor, but Giessen was. We had good looks, but it was a law of averages as our shots weren´t falling”, stressed ex Chico State American Amir Carraway. The Giessen 46ers were shooting 67% from the field and 50% from outside while SC Rasta Vechta was shooting 43% from the field and 43% from outside. Giessen had the 9-6 rebound edge, but three turnovers while SC Rasta Vechta had two turnovers.

The second quarter remained tight and Giessen was able to lead by as much as nine points, but SC Rasta made a huge comeback in the last minutes to go into halftime trailing by one point. The second quarter was the only quarter where SC Rasta Vechta didn´t let Giessen go on a quarter starting run. It was 212cm big man Oliver Mackeldanz who reached the Beko BBL last season with SC Rasta Vechta playing 6 Beko BBL games via the German Regionaliga 2, Stahnsdorf and Cuxhaven scoring inside twice and once using the big mismatch of 9 centimeters over Johannes Lischka. Ex Ludwigsburg guard Besnik Bekteshi came off the bench testing his massive 63% three point percentage nailing a shot from outside as Giessen led 28-19. Giessen was trying to pull away, but it was German Mackeldanz who continued to own the zone scoring once over Wright and then making a put back over three Giessen players as Giessen led only 30-25. Giessen continued to get good offensive production keeping their healthy lead as Johannes Lischka scored on the penetration while slipping and DiLeo made a mid-distance jumper as Giessen led 36-27. Smit was a real force from the bench giving SC Rasta Vechta that needed push as he used his quickness to score inside as Giessen led only 36-30. With Giessen leading 39-30, SC Rasta Vechta went into the break with a furious 11-3 run to trail Giessen only 42-41. Vincent Bailey got the guests on the board with a nifty spin move and lay in, Wright hit a pull up jumper, Franke became aggressive and scored inside and Chase Griffin nailed a last second three pointer as all of a sudden SC Rasta Vechta was breathing strong down their backs. “We had a nice comeback at the end. Mackeldanz was huge off the bench and he has been doing it all season long. He gave us a huge lift. We did a good job coming back on transition defense and let them play to us”, added Amir Carraway. The Giessen 46ers were shooting 59% from the field and 43% from the three point line while SC Rasta Vechta was shooting 55% from the field and 33% from the three point line. Both teams had 15 rebounds and Giesen had five turnovers and SC Rasta Vechta had six turnovers.

It seemed like everything that SC Rasta Vechta had worked so hard to achieve at the end of the second quarter was rapidly lost in the first few minutes of the third quarter as Giessen threw SC Rasta Vechta and their breathing off their back and raced out to a 10-0 run to up their lead again now to 52-41. The Giessen offense was working like a clock work again as they set the tempo again, were more aggressive and gave the word intensity a new meaning. American Eric Palm came off the bench and did his job connecting on a three pointer, Wells snuck inside for two points and DiLeo hit free throws and sunk a three pointer. “This good start in the third quarter was key for us. We defended very well and hit shots which set the tone until the end”, expressed Giessen 46er Johannes Lischka. “Having these bad starts has been our Achilles heel this season. We need to have more intensity when starting a new quarter”, commented ex Phoenix Hagen guard Chase Griffin. SC Rasta Vechta didn´t give up, but kept chipping away at the Giessen lead and fighting back. Derek Wright connected on a three pointer and Vincent Bailey on a mid-distance shot as Giessen led only 56-49. SC Rasta Vechta continued to rally as Bailey continued to be a menace with his mid distance jumper and Smit nailed two free throws of three after Bekteshi had fouled him in the parking lot as Giessen led only 58-53. However another key element in this game was the ability of Giessen to hit big shots whenever SC Rasta Vechta was threatening. Giessen got support from everyone as Bekteshi scored inside and made free throws and in the last minute it was Cuban Polas who put a roar through the Giessen Ost Halle with a harsh dunk over Franke as Giessen led 66-56 after three quarters. The Giessen 46ers were shooting 53% from the field and 50% from the parking lot while SC Rasta Vechta was shooting 51% from the field and 33% from the parking lot. Giessen had the 25-20 rebound edge and only six turnovers while SC Rasta Vechta had 10 turnovers.

SC Rasta Vechta didn´t learn from their mistakes from the previous starts to quarters and allowed the Giessen 46ers on a 11-2 run extending their lead to 77-58 which was their biggest in the game and it seemed like that had clinched the game for the ex Beko BBL club. In the run, it was Bekteshi who dropped another three pointer and Wells showing his dominance with three buckets including a bomb from outside. SC Rasta Vechta then gave their last once of energy first going on a quick 7-2 run to cut the Giessen lead to 80-65 as Chase Griffin scored inside getting a nice back door feed from Bailey, Mackeldanz made a huge two handed dunk and Kevin Smit nailed a three pointer. After Marhold made a small distraction in the SC Rasta Vechta run with a lay in, the former Beko BBL team continued their massive comeback scoring nine unanswered points to only be trailing 82-74 as even with the clock winding down to two minutes there seemed small hope as all is possible in basketball. In the run, it was Franke that took control scoring a couple of buckets and scoring free throws. Griffin then also scored, but time was running out. Giessen got a few offensive rebounds and free throws from DiLeo and Wells which sealed the 85-76 victory for the Giessen 46ers. “We had a 9-0 run were down by 12 points, but key was simply that they executed down the stretch and we didn´t. We showed heart in this game. We fought back the whole game and lost by only nine points when it could have been 25-30 points”, added Chase Griffin. “We weren´t tired at the end, but just had some mental break downs on defense”, stressed Andre Marhold.

The Giessen 46ers were led by Cameron Wells with 20 points. Andre Marhold added 13 points. TJ DiLeo chipped in with 12 points and Besnek Bekteshi with 11 points. SC Rasta Vechta was led by Vincent Bailey with 17 points and nine rebounds. Derek Wright added 15 points. Kevin Smit contributed 13 points. Chase Griffin had 11 points and Fabian Franke and Oliver Mackeldanz chipped in with 10 points a piece. Giessen had a superb shooting night with 51% from the field and 5ß% from outside while SC Rasta Vechta shot 47% from the field and 32% from outside. Giessen won the rebound duel 37-28 and had only eight trunovers while SC Rasta Vechta had 10 turnovers. The Giessen 46ers are continuing to gel and ex German national player Johannes Lischka had a huge smile after the win. 2Our team basketball wasn´t working at the start and it was frustrating. We knew that we had to get better and we worked hard to get better. We are a good team and we are knowing our roles now. We continue to defend well and that isn´t a problem. Our offense has been our sore spot, but here we are also getting better”, warned Johannes Lischka.

 

 

Derek Wright Is a 28 year old 179cm point guard from Los Angeles, California that is playing his sixth professional season and first in Germany for SC Rasta Vechta. He started his basketball career in 2004 for Austin Peay St where he played until 2008 and as a senior played 35 games: 11.4ppg, 2.5rpg, AssistsOVC-4(4.7apg), StealsOVC-2(2.5spg), FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 40.2%, FTOVC-7(79.1%): Finished career ranked first all-time at APSU in steals (228), third in assists (487) and tied for first in school and conference history in games played (131). He came to Europe in 2009 and started his professional basketball career with BK Synthesia Pardubice (Czech Rep.-NBL) where he played until 2011. In the 2011-2012 season he played for Levharti Chomutov (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five): 14 games: 17.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 26.6%, FT: 85.5%; then moved to BK Nova Hut Ostrava (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five): 24 games: 11.6ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-4(4.6apg), Steals-4(2.1spg), FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 81.4%. In the 2012-2103 season he played for CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca (Romania-Division A, starting five): 32 games: 14.6ppg, 4.2rpg, Assists-1(6.8apg), Steals-1(2.9spg), FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 81.4%. Last season he played for the Lions de Geneve (Switzerland-LNA): 3 games: 11.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.3apg, 1.7spg, in Nov.’13 moved to A.G.O Rethymno Aegean (Greece-A1): 19 games: 10.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 80.5%. He spoke to German Hoopsbefore the game against the Giessen 46ers.

 

 

Derek thanks for talking to German Hoops. You got signed very late this season. Was the offers less than in previous years or just not the right ones?

 

I was just looking for a good situation. I recently got married and just wanted the best situation for my family.

 

SC Rasta Vechta needed a new point guard to replace Ahmad Smith. What sold you on joining SC Rasta Vechta?

 

I saw how professional the organization SC Rasta Vechta is. Head coach Stephan Arigbabu also convinced that coming to Vechta would be ideal. He told me that the team has a bright future and what its expectations were. He told me that he saw me as the right person that would help the team build.

 

The club is 2-1. You seemed to have made a rather quick adjustment to play. Has the many changes of scenery in the last years helped you in general have a knack for getting to know a new basketball environment better?

 

Yes I have played in a couple places the last years. However I have played for a long time and after awhile its always the same. You come into a new situation and you don´t know what to expect. Basketball is basketball so its just a matter of getting adjusted.

 

Offensively you have been scoring well, but have averaged 4,3 turnovers in your first three games. What has been the toughest adjustment for you so far on the offensive end?

 

I haven´t been myself yet, but that is because I came in late and missed preseason. I don’t have that game feel yet, but it is slowly coming back to me. My timing is off and fatigue sets in in certain situations and that effects you mentally. However my timing is slowly coming back.

 

SC Rasta Vechta is a very young team with two American rookies with Vince Bailey and Amir Carraway. You are the third oldest behind Chase Griffin and Max Weber. Do you see yourself being a leader type of guy as the season moves along and the team gets to know you better?

 

I have been vocal since I have been here. The young players have an ear open and are willing to learn. It is great to see that they take the advice. I also listen to them for advice. I hope that all will fall into place with this team. Everyone has their ears open and that makes everyone better.

 

 

 

You’re a very quick-footed PG, he’s an ideal quarterback for a run and shot game based on fast breaks. Defends very well on the perimeter, can steal lots of balls and has a good scoring range and accuracy, even from behind the 3pts arch. What is strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

 

A hidden strength is my ability to lead the team. I am like a coach on the floor that wants to help the team at all times. I first look to help the team be better and not myself first. I am a hard working player and feel that my effort to help the team get better on the offensive and defensive end gets overlooked.

 

 

The next opponent of SC Rasta Vechta are the Giessen 46ers that have won five of their last six games and are a very disciplined team. What will be key to winning the game?

 

Every team can beat each other in this league. We saw video on Giessen and they move the ball very well. We will have to play Vechta basketball. We have to communicate well on defense and just do what it takes to win.

 

 

What has been your early impression of Vechta head coach Stephan Arigbabu? Did you know that he played on the German national team with Dirk Nowitzki?

 

Yes I knew that before I came in. A teammate in Greece had played with him in Greece. He is a great guy and has a great personality. He really looks out for his players and is a guy that you can always talk to. He gives good advice and shows that he believes in you. I heard that he was a good player.

 

You had a stellar college career at Austin Peay State from 2004-2008. How did head coach David Loos get you prepared for a professional basketball career best?

 

Loos was very hard on me. I didn´t understand it as a freshman, but when I left I did. He taught me very much and how to lead a team. He always pushed me to the limit and he really helped me to understand the game better. He wanted me to go into games confident and just be the most consistent player on the court and just do what I do best. I actually spoke to him not to long ago.

 

 

How important was it for your start in Europe to play your first two seasons in the Czech Republic with Maurice Hampton for BK JIP Pardubice. How did your relationship grow from your college days into the professional years?

 

I met Maurice when I was 17 years old. When I visited Austin Peay St, he was my host. He went on to become one of my best friends. We still talk today. I came to the Czech Republic as a rookie and Maurice helped me so much. I didn´t know what to expect and it was hard to adapt from the American style of play to the European style. He was always there for me when I had tough situations. It was a great experience with him and I have the most respect for him.

 

You have played in many countries like the Czech Republic, Romania, Switzerland, and Greece. What style has fit your game most?

 

I think that the style that has fit me most was in Greece. There were many athletic players there that could shot and the game was in the open court that fit my style. It was great being able to find guys above the rim or being able to penetrate and dish the ball to the wings. I learned the most in Romania. My coach there really helped me to understand the point guard position best. I was able to use my quickness and passing best there.

 

 

You played last season in Greece for Agor. What memories do you have of the 103-79 loss to Olympiacos against Vassillis Spanoulis? You held your own scoring 10 points and dishing out eight assists in 22 minutes while he had five points and nine assists in 19 minutes.

 

Spanoulis is a great player. This was my first game in Greece. I was a bit nervous before the game, but when I got on the court I felt confident. It was like a dream for me to play against these great players and seeing an Acie Law who played in the NBA. Even though we lost, I hit shots and found my teammates. Spanoulis didn´t guard me the whole time though.

 

 

What was the craziest thing that you experienced in your short stay in Greece?

 

It was on the road. At halftime, we were walking back into the locker room and some fan threw a m-80 firecracker into the stands. It sounded like a bomb. You never knew what to expect in Greece. They had some crazy fans.

 

 

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA that is the NBA now?

 

When I was a senior, I played Derrick Rose who was a freshman. He wasn´t the best player on his team as it was Chris Douglas Roberts, but you knew that he would be great someday. When we played Memphis at the start of the season, Rose wasn´t as experienced as he would get towards the end. I was impressed how quick he was and how well he could finish for a freshman.

 

Where will the journey of the Los Angeles Lakers end this season?

 

It is tough. I don´t see them making the playoffs. They are rebuilding and missing some pieces. I hope they get those pieces. Kobe is old, but you can never count him out. I hope they can achieve something before he retires.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The Edge of Tomorrow.

 

Thanks Derek for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Abe Lodwick is a 26 year old 201cm forward that is playing his third professional season and first with Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-Scooore League). Last season he played for the Redwell Gunners Oberwart (Austria-A Bundesliga) playing 29 games: 11.6ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 83.8% In 2012-2013 as a rookie he played for Phoenix Hagen having the typical role come from the bench and give energy and helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time in their history. He played 36 games: 6.3ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 68.9%. He scored in double figures five times and had 20 points against Bremerhaven. He played at Washington State from 2007-2012 playing a total of 105 NCAA games. In his senior year, he played 21 games: 5.2ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 23.5%, 3PT: 45.1%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to German Hoops after the 92-59 win against the Fraport Skyliners in Eurochallenge play.

 

Abe thanks for talking to German Hoops. Congrats on the 94-59 win against the Fraport Skyliners. It was your debut in international play. How did it feel getting the first game and win under your belt?

It felt good to start off international play with a win. We work hard each week, so it is fun to see that hard work pay off. Other than the fact we were playing a German team, the game did not really feel that much different. We approached it with the same focus as any other game.

The first quarter was very even, but in the second quarter, Okapi Aalstar just blew the game wide open with a 40-10 10 minutes. It seemed like you guys were shooting at an ocean. Was this just one of those quarters that happen once in a season?

For sure it was a great quarter for us, but I really think we are capable of playing at that level consistently. We are lucky to have a lot of threats and unselfish guys who are willing to move the ball and find the open man.

Your teammate Thomas Dreeson led all scorers with 22 points. How proud were you of his game? He played for Phoenix Hagen a few years before you were in Hagen and only survived a few months there.

Thomas is one of the best shooters I have been around. When he shoots I assume it is in. Happy for him to have such a good game.

Did you notice that the game had been decided at this stand point just from the body language of the Fraport Skyliners in the second half?

Our big run definitely took a lot out of them, but they played us pretty even in the second half which means they didn’t give up. I’ve been in those shoes before in my career and it is tough to stay positive sometimes.

The Fraport Skyliners are 1-6 and in 17th place and really are begging for any kind of success on the court. You played in the Beko BBL and know how high the talent level is. How surprised are you by the start of Frankfurt?

I cant really speak to their start or anything like that since I do not know their team very well or what their schedule has been like. I am sure they will work hard to turn it around. The BBL is a very good league and you have to earn every win.

They kept the core of the big German three of Klein, Barthel and Voigtman who you competed against two seasons ago and these guys have developed well and are the future of the team and also captain Quantez Robertson who has belonged to the top defenders in the Beko BBL. The team is totally underachieving. From a neutral and outsider view point what do you think is wrong with this team?

Again, I do not have much of an opinion on the matter since it is not my team. They obviously have good talent and once their team is completely healthy I am sure they will be a different team.

In the win against Frankfurt you played 14 minutes scoring three points, grabbing two rebounds and registering two blocks. What exactly is your role on the team this season?

My role might change game to game. Some games it is defense, some games to hit shots, other games to rebound. I want to do whatever I can to help us keep winning. We have plenty of scorers, so if I can help out by scoring points, great, but I always look for other ways to contribute as well.

Is Okapi Aalstar a situation where you believe that you can achieve more minutes within time with continued hard work?

For sure. Coach has done a great job of communicating with me and letting me know what he expects from me but also giving me lots of freedom to play. Hard work always pays off.

How have you been enjoying the competition level? The club has much talent packed at the forward position with guys like Tyren Johnson and Ian Hanavan?

The competition is great. Teams in our league are good, very fun to play against. And in practice me, Ty, Thomas and John compete each day. It will be good to get Ian healthy and back out there.

Okapi Aalstar is currently 6-0 in the Belgium league. Is this a club where the team chemistry has already grown well and does it have player character that won´t get too over confident about the current first place in the division?

We have a mature team even though we have some young guys. We get along real well and guys are unselfish which makes it fun and easy to come to the gym each day and get to work.

How hits more shots from the corner blindfolded Lee Cummard or David Bell?

Both can shoot the lights out but I will have to give it up to my guy D Bell.

Where will the journey of the Portland Trailblazers end this season?

Western Conference SemiFinals

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Limitless.

Thanks Abe for the chat.

 

DJ Woodmore is a 190cm rookie from Virginia Beach, Virginia that is playing for the BIS Baskets Speyer. He played at : Virginia Wesleyan (NCAA3) from 2010-2014 and a s a senior played 31 games: 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He reached the NCAA3 Sweet 16 three times and elite 8 once. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

You are a rookie coming from the NCAA 3 and playing in Germany for the BIS Baskets Speyer. Is this like a dream come true for you?

 

Playing as a rookie in Germany is like a dream come true. I am a step closer to where I want to be. After college, I never thought that I would become a professional. But last summer some agents contacted me and told me that some teams were interested in me. I continued to stay in shape last summer and then I got a call from Speyer coach Carl Mbassa. I am playing the game I love and I am very happy. Of course I would rather be winning, but I am happy and thankful that Speyer gave me shot.

 

The BIS Baskets Speyer have had slow start. What have been the major reasons for the slow start?

 

I think that we haven´t been able to put it together for 40 minutes yet. We started first games hot, but then lost it in the fourth quarter. Recently we started slow, came back, but still lost. We have only played well for 30 minutes, but have to do it for 40 minutes. We have veteran Marcus Smallwood coming in who should be a boost.

 

Speyer is very young and you are a rookie. Do you feel like a leader?

 

I feel that I am a leader despite being a rookie. My role with Speyer is to be a leader which I was sued to in college where I was a vocal leader. Personally I feel that I need to be better. I think that when the guys see that you are getting better than they will respond also as we need to get on a winning trail.

 

You were a very strong rebounding guard in college. Who has been your role model growing up and how do you rebound so well?

 

I have always been a Lebron fan. I love how he plays and how he attacks. He is always at the top in scoring, rebounding and assists. Whenever my shot isn´t falling, I try to keep going as strong as possible and just do something to get into the game. Rebounding gets me going and keeps me involved.

 

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

 

I would say my passing. I consider myself a pass first guard even if one would not expect it from my stats. I have always been in a position to have to score wherever I have played. Coach was on me the last games as I didn´t shoot as much as he had liked me too. For me it is always most important to find the right play and not the tough shot. I love to pass the ball even if it doesn´t show in my stats.

 

Khobi Williamson is from Virginia like you. What do you appreciate most from his game?

 

He is a beast down low. I played him 10 times in college as we were in the same conference. He does everything get rebounds, go for loose balls and tries to dunk it each time.

 

At Virginia Wesleyan you played for David Macedo. How did he prepare you best for a professional basketball career?

 

He told me every day to go out on the floor and be the best player. He always put me in a position to succeed on offense and defense. He is the best coach that I ever played for and he is like a father figure. I always listen to his words. Coming from a winning program, I think it has helped other people understand that I know what it takes to win.

 

You reached four Sweet 16 in the NCAA 3 tournament. Which was sweetest?

 

I enjoyed my second year. I was an All-American that year. I thought that we had had the ebst team that season, but came up against a tough opponent Wisconsin-Whitewater and lost. The sweetest though was my senior year as there were no regrets and we laid it all on the line. I think that all were sweet.

 

I was very impressed with young 200cm German point guard Sebastian Heck. How much potential does he possess?

 

He is a big point guard. He really doesn´t know how good he is. He has a good shot, gets to the basket well and has good ball handling skills for a 200cm man. He is a huge match up problem. I think once that he comes into his own and gets more confidence that he will be a beast. I see him moving up to the next levels in Germany.

 

Your teammate Benajmin Kaufhold played two seasons with ex NBA player Elias Harris. Did he tell you any stories about him yet?

 

No he hasn´t told any stories yet. He is a good friend and we are always communicating. He is a great shooter and we look up to him as captain. He is simply a great presence on offense and defense. When he is on then he can shoot with the best of them.

 

You like the city Miami and if you could visit and meet Dwayne Wade what would you ask him?

 

I would ask him how he can be so effective despite not being a good three point shooter. He is always way up in scoring. He does a great job drawing fouls. I would like to add that to my game.

 

Where will the journey of the Washington Wizzards end this season?

 

I think that they will be a good team and end up in 4^th or fifth place in the East. They have some experience, but when they face the Cavs or Bulls in the playoffs then they will lose.

 

Who wins a one on one you or Kevin Luveye?

 

Me everyday, but he has skill.

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Remember the Titans.

 

Thanks DJ for the chat.

 

 

 

TBB Trier head coach Henrik Rodl has had an illustrious basketball playing career that not many from Germany can master besides a Dirk Nowitzki and new Alba Berlin forward Nils Giffey can compare which NCAA ring is more pretty. In German basketball circles he will be best remembered for helping Germany win the 1993 European title or in Berlin his 11 titles while on the hallow basketball grounds of Chapel Hill in North Carolina of his assistance in winning the school´s NCAA title in 1993 now one of surprisingly only 5 titles in their history. Even as a head coach The German has gained the ultimate respect having formed Alba Berlin youth teams where a guy like Giffey developed and made the next step to a role player with Uconn and since 2010 has been the man in charge with TBB Trier that last reached the playoffs in 2004 and won their last title of only two in 2001. At times it seems like Rodl has had to break out the food stamps to afford a player whereas a Marko Pesic can dabble with the Gold card with FC Bayern Munich. Rodl has had to scrape from the TBB Trier budget ever since 2010, but as always he has that rare talent of always bringing in the best possible players with the money that he has. As a result TBB Trier has always been somewhere in no mans land the last years and even were near the Beko BBL playoffs in 2011 at #10 in his first season. Rodl has brought forward German big men Maik Zirbes and Andreas Seiferth and this season has another very young roster and Mathis Monninghoff seems like his next project for further stardom. He has a majority of players that were born in 1991 or later and a few guys in the 87-89 year zone and of course two veterans on the team that are as vital for Rodl as Big Macs might have been for ex Tar Heel Sean May that tipped the scale at 270 pounds once. Rodl was already introduced to Canadian basketball at North Carolina in his first two years as Rick Fox who later played for the Boston Celtics was pivotal for the Tar Heels run to the 1991 NCAA Final Four as he averaged 16,9ppg and 6,6rpg as a senior. Rodl has incorporated two fine Canadian players that not only hold the team together but also help put some points on the board and not let the club lose their nerves in crunch time. 31 year old Canadian Jermaine Bucknor is playing his third season with TBB and 31 year old Jermaine Anderson his second. They have two similarities in that both have been teammates with the Canadian national team and also have Jamaican roots. Bucknor who played many years in France, but also found a home in Frankfurt and Wurzburg has improved his scoring, rebounding, assists, field goal and three point shooting percentage each season in Trier while Anderson like Bucknor also has had ample experience in the BBL having played for Bamberg, Tuebingen and Braunschweig. Both guys are exceptional players, have the right attitude and that special heart for basketball. For TBB Trier to function this season, they have to function and Rodl knows that. The only thing missing in Trier would be to have a reunion with Rodl and Fox and not only talk about the good old days but script a movie with Fox who has dabbled in cinema and add Bucknor and Anderson to the storyline. This could keep some boring days in the middle of winter more interesting and even if it doesn´t Bucknor and Anderson could entertain their teammates with good old fashioned Jamaican Reggae after a big TBB Trier victory.

It is always a challenge for Henrik Rodl to lead TBB Trier each season with the limited budget, but once again his team had no business staying at the end of the standings. They finished the season in 13^th place and they were incapable of beating one of the top three teams, but beat ratiopharm Ulm and swept the season series from the Telekom Baskets Bonn, Ludwigsburg and MBC proving they are able to have a teams number for the course of a season. A big problem was there defense which for many seasons was their bread and butter that part of the game that was holy for team and coach. The club started out well into the season holding teams to under 70 points in two of the first three games, but then only did it three more times. Their defense was too erratic coupled with the fact that they couldn´t put points on the board on a consistent rate either hurt their overall chances to win games as well. And in those games where they mustered offensive punch, their defense was their Achilles heel. Rebounding was also a problem as they had no real classic big man that can scoop down rebounds with ease the way the eccentric Dennis Rodman did back in the game. Their number one center German national player Andreas Seiferth averaged only 4,9rpg which is definitely too little for a guy like him. Seeing the quality they had last season coupled with the experience, it is kind of scary to imagine where the team will land this season as they have lost key players.

TBB Trier lost two of their key figures from last season with top scorer TreVohn Hughes who has moved on to medi bayreuth and Andreas Seiferth who has taken his talent on to the Artland Dragons. Despite losing these two figures the club did a fine job despite not having the biggest budget to keep an identity within the team holding 8 players. Even if the combination of these 8 players may not be equal to most other clubs in the Beko BBL in talent, sometimes a healthy chemistry will do wonders for a team. The two biggest and most important players held were Canadians Jermaine Anderson and Jermaine Bucknor. The overall success of their play, fitness level and staying healthy will be vital for TBB Trier between finishing in the middle or fighting to stay in the league .Anderson who is a 31 year old 188cm guard got his first real basketball experience at FordhamNCAA) and has played much of his career in Germany for teams like Bamberg, Tuebingen and Braunschweig. He also played in countries like Poland, Canada, Croatia and Russia. Last season for Tuebingen he played 34 games: 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT-1(96.9%). Never foul him in crunch time, because he is one of top free throw shooters in the Beko BBL. Bucknor is also 31 201cm forward and played at Richmond(NCAA) and then for the first four seasons as a professional in France before coming to Germany in 2010 where he played for Frankfurt, Wurzburg an dnow his third season with TBB Trier. Last season he played 27 games: 9.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 75.8%. It was his best statistical season in Germany and is the glue guy of the team.

The club also held on to Vitalis Chikoko who is a 23 year old 207cm forward that is a talented, lanky forward/center who has a huge upside. Even standing almost at 6-10, he can spend yet time at the PF position, thanks to enormous athletic skills, versatility, and good feel for the game. He is playing his third season with TBB Trier after having Rodl notice him in the 2010-2011 season where he played for BG Goettingen. He has improved his scoring each season in Trier and last season played 34 games: 8.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 17.1%, FT: 52.0%. He raising his game to another level this season also will be beneficial for the teams success. Mathis Monninghoff is a 22 year old 200cm swing man that started his career with Leverkusen and played 52 NCAA games for Gonzaga having ex NBA player Elias Harris as a teammate. His shot is his big asset, but he isn´t one dimensional, but smart turns over the ball seldom and plays aggressive defense. Like Chikoko, he also improved his stats from his first season in Trier and last season played 30 games: 5.0ppg, 1.9rpg. Laurynas Samenas is a 26 year old 192cm guard from Lituvania that is playing his second season out of his native country and second for TBB Trier. Last season he played for  BC Siauliai (LKL) playing 22 games: Score-5(15.0ppg), 2.2rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 78.4%; Baltic League: 17 games: 14.2ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 50.7%, FT: 79.1%. He is known for his shooting and defense and can give the team energy from the bench. Last season for TBB trier he gave played 30 games averaging 8.9ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.7%.

After four seasons and 74 Beko BBL games with Bayreuth, Stefan Schmidt came to TBB Trier last season searching for a new challenge. Schmidt is a 25 year old 207cm center that was born in Schwandorf. He had the chance to play behind two ex NBA players with Jared Reiner and Brandon Hunter. Schmidt never was able to make his breakthrough in Bayreuth and in Trier will came from the bench last season to give Seifert rest. He always works hard and this could be his breakthrough season with Seiferth gone if he decides to use it. Last season the German played 34 games: 3.4ppg, 2.4rpg. Anthony Canty is a 23 year old 183cm guard that has had problems with injuries last season as he played 1 game: 0pts, played also at SG DJK/MJC Trier (Regionalliga)1 game: 25pts. He started his career in 2007 with  BSG Bremerhaven (Oberliga) and in 2009 to Beko BBl team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven where he played a total of 63 games in four seasons. He is another very big German talent that could shine in Trier this season if given the chance. His speed is his biggest asset and isn´t shy to take big shots if no one else wants to. . Andreas Wenzl is a 21 year old 201cm center that arrives to Trier as a big project and is playing his second season there. He started his career with ratiopharm Ulm and played at the 2011 and 2012 NBBL Allstar games. In the NBBL he has shown his scoring and rebounding ability, but knee problems have slowed him down. In Trier he will get a chance to get minutes with the Regionaliga team and Beko BBL club.

The club hauled in American Ricky Harris as he got a short term contract because the club has injury woes. Harris is a 27 year old guard 187cm guard from Baltimore that is playing his fifth professional season. He played at Massachusetts (NCAA) together with ex NBA player Tony Gaffney and turned professional in 2010. He played in countries like Lithuvania and the Ukraine and two seasons ago played for Biancoblu Basket Bologna (Italy-Lega2): 28 games: 13.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 77.3%. Last season he played for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg playing 20 games: 11.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 84.1%. It takes a lot of courage to have only a few slots open to choose players and then pick young ones from other countries. That is exactly what Rodl did bringing in 22 year old 207cm forward Marko Lukovic from Serbia. It is his first destination out of his country. He played for Mega Vizura (A League) Adriatic League from 2009-2014 and last season played 24 games: 4.8ppg, 2.5rpg; Serbian League: 12 games: 5.3ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.0%. He has played for the Serbian U 18 and U 20 teams and is a player that plays the positions 3-4 and presents huge miss match problems there and is agile and can shoot well. The club also brought in another young player that is more or less expected to perform as soon as possible with Adin Vrbac who is a 20 year old 204cm shooting guard and huge talent from Bosnia. He started his basketball career at KK Spars Sarajevo (D3) in 2009. Last season he played for KK Spars Sarajevo (Division I, starting five): 30 games: 10.7ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 21.6%, FT: 63.1%. Last summer he played at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) -14 (Gold): 8 games: 11.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 46.2%. He is a very athletic player that likes to create for his players, but his shot has to improve. The club also brought in Dennis Kramer. Kramer is a 22 year old 211cm center and rookie. His mother is German, his father Arvid Kramer is a former pro player (spent several years overseas playing in e.g. Italy and Germany) and NBA draftee, who worked as a general manager of German Bundesliga team Telekom Baskets Bonn for six years after his playing career. Kramer grew up in the States and played at San Diego (NCAA) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 123 NCAA games and as a senior played 31 games averaging11.3ppg, 6.8rpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 71.2%. “Dennis is a young talented player that fits well into our concept.He can play both big man positions. I am happy that we could find someone of his calibur now”, stressed TBB Trier head coach Henrik Rodl.

It will be interesting to see what Rodl can do this season with this roster as it is another gigantic challenge for him. If the club is as deep as last season is hard to say, but having many players on board for an additional season helps. There are a lot of question marks with the team. How well will it be able to fill the void of top scoring point guard Trevon Hughes and center Andreas Seiferth. The club has no classic big man so the whole team has to help out on the glass and have been doing it so far. The team is young has some experience and Rodl will need to keep the team hungry and focused. This is a team that can´t look to the future, but take it game by game. Getting back to the early Rodl defensive principles also will be vital to winning games. So far Lukovic has been a pleasant surprise as he may be overachieving a bit. The club started the season very solid with a 2-2 record beating Braunschweig and Goettingen, but since then the club has suffered a three game losing streak and in the last two games gave up 100 points to Crailsheim and 91 points against Alba Berlin. With last placed team the Fraport Skyliners as there next opponent this Sunday might just be right for TBB Trier to get back into their defensive ways as they have been struggling very much on offense, but they are due for a break out game. So far Frankfurt is 1-2 at home, but have fond memories of their last game as they had their only win of the season against the Telekom Baskets Bonn. This game should be a defensive game as usual between these teams as for the Fraport Skyliners it is a must win as it is 10 seconds before midnight.

 

 

In the last Six years, The Skyliners have a record of 11-7 against TBB Trier with 5-3 at home and 4-4 on the road. In 2008-2009, TBB Trier played a very energetic and spirited game winning 78-70 despite a monster game by American Derrick Allen who registered 29 points and 10 boards. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners lost the first game of the season in Trier 71-67 as Jimmy Mckinney and Qarraan Calhoun were missing due to injury. It was your typical season opening game as both teams were nervous and missing way too many shots. The game was tied at halftime 26 all. Frankfurt had fire power in the third quarter, but went down in the fourth quarter scoring only nine points as Frankfurt had no nerves in crunch time to win. Derrick Allen had 19 points and eight rebounds and despite TBB Trier was without top scorer Chris Copeland, the team got needed production form Jamal Shuler, Brian Brown and George Evans to conserve the win. In 2009-2010, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners lost the first game ion Trier 71-67 as Ex Skyliner Derrick Allen contributed 19 points and eight rebounds and Frankfurt won at home 71-69 winning the game with Pascal Roller free throws. Derrick Allen led Frankfurt with 17 points. In 2010-2011, Frankfurt swept the season series. They won at home 72-55 as Pascal Roller led the home team with 17 points. The return date in Trier was an exciting battle as Frankfurt clawed out a 69-61 win as they came from behind going on a 10-0 run in crunch time to prevail. Dashaun Wood led the charge with 18 points and Jimmy Mckinney added 11 points. In their first meeting in 2011-2012, TBB Trier came out with a 64-54 victory as defense played a key role. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jon Leuer and Jimmy Mckinney with 14 points a piece. In their second meeting that year, the Fraport Skyliners were riding the wave of a very strong second half of the season where they had beat top teams like FC Bayern Munich, ratiopharm Ulm, Bamberg, Artland Dragons and the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and came to Trier with a lot of self confidence winning 72-52 displaying another trademark top defensive performance as ex NBA player Jermareo Davidson steered 19 points to the win and Jimmy Mckinney added 18 points. This was also the game where Eisbaeren Bremerhaven forward Jacob Burtschi was on the floor as much as Boris Becker had dived on the hallowed lawn at Wimbeldon in his career. In the 2012-2013 season TBB Trier swept the season series won at home against Frankfurt 78-59. At halftime everything looked ok as Frankfurt trailed by only one point, but TBB trier exploded in the third quarter winning it 25-8 leading them on to the win. American Brian Harper proved too much for Frankfurt with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Skyliner Ted Scott gave his debut netting 20 points. In the return game in Frankfurt, TBB trier won 78-70 sending the Fraport Skyliners into a do or die game with Ludwigsburg as Jermaine Bucknor and Andreas Seiferth led the way with 14 points a piece. Frankfurt was led by Quantez Robertson with 14 points and Ryan Brooks added 13 points. In their first meeting last season, the Fraport Skyliners came out of Trier with a big 85-75 victory as Andrew Rautins smoked Trier for 30 points. Jacob Burtschi and Danilo Barthel added 15 points a piece. TBB Trier was led by Trevohn Hughes with 29 points and Vitalis Chikoko added 11 points. In the return game, The Fraport Skyliners won at home 67-56 as TBB Trier showed a good defensive effort, but Frankfurt buckled down a few gears better on defense. Frankfurt was led by Danilo Barthel with 15 points and American Jarred Dubois added 10 points. TBB Trier was led by Trevon Hughes with 18 points and Andreas Seiferth added 11 points.