Josh Bone is a 26 year old 190cm guard from Nashville, Tennessee that will be starting his European basketball career in Germany with Gotha and will be playing for their Regionaliga 2 team. He started his basketball career in 2006 with S.Illinois (NCAA. After two years, he transferred to Tennessee(NCAA) where he played from 2009-2011 and played a total of 91 NCAA games for both schools. He played as a professional rookie for the Clarksville Cavaliers (ABA) and Tennessee Dragons (UBA) in the 2011-2012 season. After not playing for two seasons, he was picked up by Gotha. He talked To German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Josh congrats on being signed to German Pro A team Gotha. Just reading your words after signing this deal could even have made the not most sensible people shed a tear. How good is life for you right now?

My life is great. I can’t complain at all, I have a beautiful family and I am about to play ball in Germany after going through so much to get here.

You haven´t played professional basketball in the last two years? I have interviewed so many players that have been looking for teams and then found one, but apparently the basketball God just didn´t want you to play the game that you love? How difficult have the last two years been for you? How often did you doubt yourself and besides family, which friends or players were always there on your side?

Great question, even though I’ve been through a lot, I’ve never lost faith. Mainly because I knew that I was too talented and worked too hard to give it up being this young. There’s always some form of doubt as to why you hadn’t made it as a professional yet, but when you play the game as hard as I do and as good as I do the confidence doesn’t leave I guess lol. Honestly my family went through the struggle with me every step of the way. Especially My fiancé, my mom, and one of my little brothers Jordan Bone, a top junior guard in the USA. They’ve been the people that kept me going this whole time. My father and middle brother also played a big role in me continuing my dream by providing me with tough love and ultimately it made me work harder. Some of my closest former teammates and friends that are playing overseas also knew how much I loved the game and saw my talent and never gave up on me as well. JP Prince, Jeronne Mayman, Gerald Robinson, Brandon Woods, Jordan Mcrae, Ryan Westbrooks and KC Anuna. Everyone else probably laughed at me and wondered why I hadn’t given up yet. I’m very thankful that the Gotha organization are giving me the opportunity! It’s the perfect time, if you ask me!

 

Now you waited so long to finally play again. Do you feel some pressure now coming into a situation where many eyes will be on you or will you let God and your skills do the job?

You answered it! I’m letting God and my skills do the job! I’ve worked very hard and know even though I haven’t played professionally in a while, I’m prepared and more than ready to make an impact.

 

What do you know about Germany the country and basketball? Your friends Jamaal Tatum or John Fields have played here in the past.

I know very little about Germany but my mentor, Rainer Meisterjahn is from Germany and has let me know a little about the culture! He’s also been a person that believed in me from day one and very honored to play for the country where he was raised. I heard it was a great place to play ball and I’m excited to be greeted by some of the best fans in the world!

 

Besides helping Gotha win games what will be your personal goal as a player as a rookie in Germany?

My goal is simple, it’s to do everything possible to get Wins and ultimately get a title! As a player I want to stay in the gym and continue to get better every day!

 

You are a 190cm guard that didn´t get much playing time at Tennessee. In high school at Brentwood academy one could see that you could fill up the stat sheet like a Monta Ellis does. What is a strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away? It seems like taking care of the ball is something that gets unnoticed as a freshman at S Illinois you had only two turnovers in 188 minutes of action

Yes I pride myself in taking care of the ball but what has gone unnoticed the most since UT, was my ability to score. I’ve always been a scorer but in order to get minutes at UT since we had great players at the time, I had to do whatever it took to get on the court. So I became a defensive specialist and one of the best defenders in the country! But ultimately I’m a play maker and scorer and ready to prove it!

 

After helping Brentwood Academy win 4 straight high school titles, you enrolled at S.Illinois and had a solid second season averaging 8.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 34.5%, 3Pts: 33.7%, FT: 67.6%. However you decided to transfer to Tennessee. Why did you make this move?

I decided to make the move to UT to gain more exposure.

 

You couldn´t play in the 2008-2009 season as you were red shirted. You belonged to the scouting team. What kind of experience was this and how did you see the game of basketball different off the court from head coach Bruce Pearl?

 

Yes, I learned a lot being redshirted but me and Jeronne Maymon definitely got better and proved that we were supposed to be a part of the team. We killed them some days. Most days hahahahaha

 

 

However at Tennessee, you didn´t play much either. The club was stacked with very good players at all positions. This was another hard ship that you had to endure. How did these two years make you stronger that has helped you make the person/player today as giving up is not an option?

It was great playing with such talented players but it has definitely made me tougher and made me a better player. It made me a better player because we went hard every day against each other and they will tell you that going against me wasnt easy because I’m very relentless and giving up is never an option.

 

 

One of your best games as a junior with Tennessee was being the hero in a win over Ole Miss where you hit three three pointers and made three steals. Can you still walk through this game and your big plays as if it was yesterday?

And yes the Ole Miss game was my breakout game for UT. I stopped a tremendous guard from Ole Miss, and gained a lot of confidence through the staff and fans at UT. My job was to stop Chris Warren because they were killing us the whole game, and that’s what I did. I knew in order to play I had to shine and make my mark on a game, so I shot it every time I was open, and played defense. I wanted to do everything I could to help my team win and make a mark, and honestly playing defense and making wide open shots is pretty easy if you ask me. Although this was a breakout game for me, while I was at UT I wasn’t given the opportunity to truly show my talent so to the fans this might have seemed like a great game for Josh Bone, but for me it was a great win for the team and what I do!

 

As a senior one of your best games was a 13 point effort in 23 minutes against power house Kentucky. There you were on the court with future NBA players like Doron Lamb, Terrence Jones, Deandre Liggins, Darius Miller, Brandon Knight, Josh Harrellson or Enes Kanter. When you look back at that game, which of these guys left you most impressed with their ability?

Only the toughest players can play against Kentucky and be productive. It was a great experience to play there and perform well for my team. I honestly wasn’t thinking about who impressed me the most from that team that year I just knew they were stacked with great players.

If one looks at the Tennessee roster when you were there, there were some players that obviously know what hard work and dedication is all about as a guy John Fields who has been moving his way up in Europe from lower leagues and now will play in the well established Belgium league for Liege. How much of an inspiration has he been for you? He also didn´t play much at Tennessee?

John Fields has always been a great player and I knew he would do great overseas and move up quickly. He has been an inspiration because he and myself would always go hard at practice and talk about why we weren’t getting more minutes, and we are both professionals now, and it’s great to see a person like him move up fast because of his hard work.

 

 

Scotty Hopson has been in Europe, played briefly for the Cavs and now got signed by the Pelicans is also a guy that has been working very hard to reach the highest level. He was an impact player at Tennessee and you also took over for him briefly when he was injured. What was the most important thing that you learned from him?

Scotty Hopson was one of the most talented players I’ve seen, but honestly he probably learned more from me than I did from him. Because what everyone didn’t see was that I played a huge role in getting him tougher and getting him better at practice.

 

Some years ago, you founded CKDO which stands for collegekidsdropout.com. How did this come about? You also were planning a printed magazine.

I am a founder of CKDO but no longer associated with the brand, but I do have other things in the works. So look out!

 

 

How does a normal summer work out day look like for John Bone in 2014 on and off the court?

Off the court I run stadiums, miles, and lift weights to keep my body conditioned well. On the court I have worked with some of the best trainers in Nashville to polish my game and ensure that I’ll be ready for opportunities like this. I work on ball handling a lot, strength and core drills and shooting!

 

 

What is your nicest memory with Renalo Wooldrige at Tennessee? Did he tell you any NBA stories about his dad?

 

Renaldo Woolridge is a great guy and had plenty funny stories about him hahaha. One of the funniest is when we lost to USC at Tennessee and he didn’t play one minute of the game, but because he was from there he was so pissed, and hit a door and said The F word really loud when it was extremely quiet. It wasn’t funny that we lost the game but because it was so out of character for Renaldo to do such a thing. His dad actually came to UT for a few games while I was there so I’ve met him and he seemed like great guy just like his son! I was honored to meet him and God rest his soul!

 

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

300 Rise of an empire was the last DVD I saw. I’m a big action movie guy!

 

Thanks Josh for the chat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Japhet Mcneil is a 29 year old 183cm point guard that has been playing professionally since 2008. He started his basketball career in 2003 with East Carolina(NCAA) where he played until 2006 playing a total of 81NCAA games. He then moved to  Bridgeport (NCAA2) where he played 31 games averaging 16.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.9apg, StealsNCAA2-1(4.0spg), FGP: 38.3%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 67.3%. In 2008-2009 he started his professional basketball career with  USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA,) playing 30 games: 14.8ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-1(7.9apg), Steals-1(3.5spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 63.3%- In the 2009-2010 season he played for  Kori-Konkarit Loimaa (Finland-1st Division) playing  5 games: 9.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.8apg, 3.4spg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 19.0%, FT: 50.0%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for  BG Karlsruhe (Germany-ProA): 3 games: 4.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg. In the 2011-2012 season he returned to the States and played for the  Connecticut TopBallerz (ABA). IN the 2012-2013 season he played for the BSW Sixers (Germany-ProB): 14 games: 4.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 4.1apg, 1.5spg. Last season he played for the Black Frogs in Luxemburg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball and Danilo Barthel.

 

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

 

Hey miles, thanks for having it’s always a pleasure. Currently I’m in the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas. Vacationing with loves ones. I will return to New York city shortly and pick up where I left off by putting that pain in at the gym, Summer has been awesome this is one of my better summers!

You played in Luxemburg last season and had a very strong season. After playing in countries like Germany and Finland, what kind of an experience was it balling in Luxemburg?

Hooping in Luxemburg was honestly a gracious period for me, I didn’t know what to expect. It was a unique situation that I made the best out of. I had some of the best teammates there they embraced me like I was family from day one, It’s something that I will always cherish.

You really had a solid season especially scoring the ball. How important was it for you getting minutes again something you hadn´t really had since your season in Finland and before that with Heidelberg?

This year was unique because all my career I was ask to be a leader, I’ve always been a true point, pass 1st shoot 2nd. But this year my role was to be all of the above and because of injuries and lack of scoring on offense I needed to score the ball a bit more than usual while taking on the leadership role. I believe I needed that. I needed to be able to prove that I can score the ball while being able to distribute and get my teammates in the game. Playing at Bsw Sixers ( German bundisliga 2) kind of hurt me because I wasn’t able to get a comfortable role to max out my potential. When your playing 13-14 minutes per game because of a set rotation, when you get in the game your focus is not to make mistakes and to stay in the game as long as possible. When you don’t have to look over your shoulder any good player performance will rise!

How is your strategy now during the summer and your search for a team? Would you like to come back to Germany? How is the search coming along at the moment?

I always hate the business aspect for the off season. You here about openings for jobs and you think your qualified but they fall through for whatever reason. Sometimes it’s frustrating but that’s the name of the game! I would return to Germany most definitely without a doubt. Playing for Heidelberg was fun. The league is competitive, good talent and they have playoffs! Currently I’m still a free agent available taking inquiries. Hopefully not for too too long

After your successful season in Luxemburg, your confidence level must be very high this season. You are 29 and at the best basketball age. Do you see yourself still being able to develop as a professional basketball player?

Yea miles after a successful statistic season my arrows are up! I know it wasn’t the most competitive league but it wasn’t the worse on the flip side. At the end of the day the ball has to go in the hoop. I was asked to help a team that was down due to unfortunate injuries etc. To come in and help the team remain in the league. The odds was against as usual but I took on the challenge and it all worked out. I’m the guy that can get the job done. Every day I learn. Everyday. I am always going to be a student of the game. Learning and getting better will never get old to me. That’s the beauty of this game. Your always able to grow. Mentally, physically, emotionally etc.

Now lets go back to your rookie season Japhet. You played for USC Heidelberg where you led the German Pro A with 7,9 assists. You played together with American Jibril Hodges where you guys made everything look so easy. The team had talented players and also a 17 year old kid named Danilo Barthel that now just finished 2 weeks of NBA Summer League in Orlando and Las Vegas. How crazy is that when you remember his start in Heidelberg?

I’m so proud of Danillo. But honestly I’m not surprised at all. Sometimes when you see a kid and he has the goods you know he got that “IT” Danillo Barthel had it. He worked extremely hard, he was always humble, had good foot work with good outside touch while being able to display athleticism. What surprised me was his growth spurt! He was 6 ‘6- 6’7 when we were teammates, I’m not sure, but I’m guessing now he is 6’9-6’10 easy. When you combine all of that, along with youth and a high basketball IQ, I think we have yet to see the best from Danilo. He will only get better.

When you look back at your season with Danilo Barthel in Heidelberg and see where he is now, would you ever have predicted that he would make it to the NBA Summer League?

I didn’t know exactly where he would end up but I knew he was going to be successful if he stayed with it and continued to take his approach that he took as a basketball player. It just goes to show that the sky is the limit when you continue to believe in yourself while putting the pain in!

You met up with him a few months ago. What do you think has been his biggest attribute that has brought him this far. Has his hard work outweighed his talent?

1st and foremost his size ( pause ) and he’s agile. He was never your typical power foward. Danillo had great hands, one thing he did well was pick up on the speed of the game. He was able to make adjustments at a young age. When we played back in 2008-2009 he wasn’t the Danillo he is now but you’d see characteristics and potential on how good he can be. Now look !!

Back as a rookie in Heidelberg, you were a leader at age 23 while he was 17. What 1-1 memories do you remember having with him on and off the court?

Hmmm what memories do I remember that we shared?!? Throughout the season we had plenty of good memories but I guess it was the time when I knew he was “ready” ready. Coach Torsten Daume put Danillo in a clutch game, I think it was against MBC when they had that amazing run with Wayne Bernard, Chavis, Gilbert etc. Danillo wasn’t scared at all he played extremely well to be 17-18 years old. Had a two hand dunk off of my assist and all, we ended up crushing them by 20 points. That day our fans of Heidelberg came out. Gym was rocking! That year MBC lost 1 game and it was to the hands of us. That was one of our best on court experiences I’d have to say!!!

He had a very impressive NBA Summer League totally being able to compete with the young and talented future NBA players. Where do you see his career still going? Could he make to the top level in Europe or even possibly the NBA some day?

Sky’s the limit for DB. I really wish the best for him and his family. His mom is amazing, he has a good support system I’m sure, I think the only person that can get in the way of Danillo is Danillo. Proud to say he is an ex teammate as well as a friend.

How does a normal Japhet Mcneil work out day look like in the summer of 2014 on and off the court?

My workout consist of different elements that helps my game. I have a trainer and he is a genius. A basketball guru. He actually just finished his career playing in pro (a) France, Ettiene brower. The beauty of basketball is when you compete against these players growing up and throughout your career you gain good relations and that’s one thing that I love about my job. My job as a player is to work hard with a clear mind and intentions to get better. He does the rest.

Where will the journey of the Cavs end this season with Lebron, Irving, Bennett, Wiggans and co?

I’m hoping they do well. My extended family is really good friends with Kyrie. I was fortunate to hang out and share some laughs with the big homie d. Irv that’s Kyrie’s dad. He’s an awesome dude, so without a doubt I’m pulling for the Irving family.

When you look back at all the great short stops in the history of MLB where would you put Derek Jeter?

I’m not the biggest baseball fan but I know enough. Derek Jeter is a class act. 1st ballot hall of famer. I’m so happy I can say I come from a city that a player like Derek Jeter played in and became the player that he is. Greatness, leader, champion, skills etc are words that come to mind when you mention a player of his stature. I’d put him top 3 if not the best ever!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

My last DVD/movie I saw was the Lenny Cooke documentary. Great inspirational story of a basketball from Brooklyn, New York. Also a good friend of mine. I like to support my peers, keep it all in the family!!!

 

Thanks Japhet for the chat.

 

Miles thanks for having me wish you all the best! And as always it’s a pleasure buddy

Will Barnes is a 26 year old 185cm point guard from Tuscaloosa, Alabama that will be playing his second professional season and first with the Hamburg Towers. He started his basketball career in 2006 for Tennessee Tech (NCAA) where he played a total of 98 NCAA games. In 2012-2013 he played at  Lee (NAIA) playing 34 games: 20.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 77.7%. Last season as a rookie he played for the Finke Baskets playing 29 games: Score-3(18.8ppg), 3.5rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 75.8%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

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

 

Hello Miles! First, I have to say thanks for the interview. I am currently in Cleveland, TN. This is where my school Lee University is. I’ve been training here pretty much the entire summer. It feels good to be home though after the long stretch in Germany. I got to rest, visit family, and refocus on this upcoming season.

 

You signed with new German Pro A team Hamburg Towers. How were you sold best on joining this new team and being  a part of history as the club starts operation?

I am very excited about joining the Hamburg Towers. Coach Hamed was the person who reached out to me and we really clicked instantly. He was honest with me and we both share the same goals about this season. I really needed that in a head coach! Not to mention the great things that I’ve heard about the city of Hamburg. It is just an overall great opportunity for me.

 

Did you have any talks with their men in charge ex players Pascal Roller and Marvin Willoughby that played together with Dirk Nowtzki in the German national team? How important is it having these two basketball minds heading this new program as you enter a totally new experience?

No, I have not yet conversed personally with Mr. Roller or Willoughby but I definitely know who they and all about their impact in German basketball. The two were a major point that Coach Hamed mentioned. It means everything to have such people on your side. They’ve played the game at a very high level and provide unlimited insight on how to handle certain situations in the pro basketball world and life in general. I’m very excited to meet them and converse about our team!

 

How happy are you to be going to Hamburg with ex Paderborn teammate Vincent Kittmann? What is the most important thing that he will give Hamburg on the court?

Yes, I am very excited to play with Vince once again! It’s always a good thing to be comfortable with teammates and know how one plays. More than anything else, Vince will bring heart and leadership to our team. He’s from the city of Hamburg so he will put his heart on the line even more so this season because he is playing for his hometown. I’m excited for him.

 

You probably will never forget your 43 point explosion against Cuxhaven, but where does your 36 point game in the 90-88 win against NBC rank?

Haha, the Cuxhaven game was definitely special but unfortunately we lost that one by a close margin. The NBC game was a hard fought battle that ended in OT. We played very hard as a team and made some huge plays to get the win.

You stated in an earlier interview with me that you would have liked to have been more of a leader in your rookie season. Do you feel ready now to be the leader with the Hamburg Towers?

Yes, I definitely am ready to be the leader. Last year, I was figuring out the pro game and lifestyle. I will come to Hamburg with new experiences and I am very focused on a leadership role.

 

You and Ricky Taylor were both rookies last season and spent some years in Tennessee playing for different schools. How did you guys make each other better on and off the court?

Yes, Ricky is a good friend of mine. A great guy! He does a lot of camps and training with kids. I actually got the chance to help with one of his camps this summer. We challenged one another last year simply by competing in everything. We were both roomies trying to prove ourselves so we ALWAYS wanted to out-do each other in drills and scrimmages. It all just made us better and develop respect for each other’s game!

 

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

A normal work out day for me starts early in the morning. I get in the gym and get a shooting workout in. Come home and rest until the early afternoon. I then lift weights and work on my core. I then eat dinner and head back to the gym around 8. I do more agility, defense, and skills training then. Between the workouts, I make sure to stretch and get good meals in. Im trying to better myself as an overall athlete.

 

When you return to Germany soon what will be the first German food that you will be most wanting to eat?

There is no question that I will be getting a doner! I’ve literally been craving one since I left! Haha

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The last DVD I watched was “American Hustle”

 

Thanks Will for the chat.

 

 

 

 

For Danilo Barthel, the NBA Summer League in Orlando and Las Vegas must of flown by like the 2014 World Cup did for most soccer fans except for countries like England or Italy who were faster back home than anyone really had expected. Barthel has been stateside for more than two weeks and his Summer League experience is winding down as he played his biggest game tonight against the Washington Wizards to see if the Miami Heat continue to march to the title game or not. It has been a very solid NBA Summer League for Barthel who In Orlando played 4 games: 4.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, 0.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 31.6%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 75%. In Las Vegas, he has readily been as solid and really prospered from the absence of NBA player Justin Hamilton in the games against the Los Angeles Clippers and Washington Wizards earlier in the week averaging 31 minutes in the two games. He has been a team player and defended well at times with annoying fouls hampering him and his only real flaw on offense has been his three point drought ashis shot continues not to want to fall from the parking lot. In the last game against the Los Angeles Clippers, he played the least compared to any of the other games playing five minutes, but was still effective scoring five points and sat the entire second half. Dunking has been a speciality of Barthel the last two seasons in the Beko BBL, but so far in the NBA Summer League, he hasn´t really been able to showcase that dunking talent as his teammate 193cm guard Tyler Johnson from Fresno State has dunked at a Barthel rate would in the Beko BBL. One guy who has played with Barthel for three years for the Fraport Skyliners  Juinors is German Tim Oldenburg who explains that the invitation of Barthel from the Miami Heat is no fluke and he may know how to dunk, but is watching other aspects from the bench besides the spectacular dunks from NBA players. “I know Danilo since a while and since I know him his career has risen. His hard work ethic is a reason for this. It didn´t surprise me that he got an invitation. I am not a big NBA watcher and haven´t watched much NBA Summer League, but I understood what it meant when I heard that he had been invited. It doesn´t surprise me that he is doing well there. He isn´t only a great guy, but a great talent that continues to give his best to reach the next step. Danilo dunks because its easy for him. He has the athletic ability and coordination to bring the ball safely into the basket. When dunking is a safe thing for him, then it is always better than a lay up. I don´t think that he will try to copy the NBA players. The show dunks are those when you go 1-0 on the basket like on the fast break. Every other dunk is simply a basket that counts for two points, but still looks good. Danilo will decide against a dunk in a big game when he knows that he wont make it or if he knows he can score an easier way. Which coach wants a player that makes four spectacular dunks in 30 minutes, but gives up 20 points on defense and is nothing else except a passing station on offense and can only function when he is alone in front of the hoop and can jump? It is better to have  a player that defends his man well and is dangerous in many ways on the court and if there is a chance  then still has the ability to dunk it. I think that Danilo does a great job when dunking or not”, stressed Tim Oldenburg.

After a bitter two point loss a few days ago, The Miami Heat came into the game for revenge, but instead of playing like a team on a mission, they started similar to their first meeting Against Washington where they couldn´t hit the side of a barn door even if they were sitting on a horse next to the object. New York Knicks president Phil Jackson and the strong Washington Wizards back court of John Wall and Bradley Beal were on hand to check out the action. Danilo Barthel didn´t start the game, but would come in near the end of the first quarter. The Miami Heat just stunk up the house as they only had four points after seven minutes on 2/14 shooting from the field. Shabazz Napier had a rough start as one notices that the wear and tear of the game/practice schedule of the NBA Summer League can take a toll on rookies. Barthel came in at the 2.54 mark and that was when Napier started to get going scoring in bunches making seven consecutive points. Barthel tried to get into the offense through his defense and did  a good job contesting two shoots that didn´t fall. He also had some misfortune when he pulled down an ally-op pass with one hand  for a steal and looked like an NFL receiver who is reaching for an overthrown pass, but he fell so badly that he was called with a travel. Washington had the 17-11 lead after 10 minutes while both teams were shooting very poorly with  Miami at 23/20 and Washington at 26/20. In the second quarter, Barthel remained in the game and right away brought some light into a very sloppy game driving to the bucket and showing that a German basketball player can feel the basket putting up a shot in the lane. Ex ratiopharm Ulm forward Daniel Theis brought real energy to the game with two big defensive plays making two huge blocks. His block on a Honeycutt dunk attempt even had Wizard guard Bradley Beal showing reserved excitement “I don´t know who he is, but I think he is from overseas and that definitely would make the highlight film”.On the other end, Barthel made a pretty no look pass to the trailer James Nunnally for the basket. Theis then blocked two time NCAA champion Shabazz Napier and on the offensive end made a tip in as he was all over the court. Both players were out in the last few minutes. At halftime, Washington led 33-31. Both teams were shooting poorly with Miami at 28/25 and Washington at 28/10.

In the third quarter, both Germans were on the bench as the game remained low scoring and no club having more than a three point advantage. Miami did go on  a 7-0 run near the end of the third quarter, but couldn´t break away from the Washington Wizards. Miami had the 50-49 lead after 30 minutes as Napier ended the quarter with a three point bomb. Both teams were still shooting unsatisfactory, but were able to heighten their field goal percentage to 32%. In the fourth quarter, both Germans had sufficient playing time and Theis would help Washington considerably down the stretch. Barthel was aggressive getting an offensive rebound and kicking out the ball quickly to Suggs for the three pointer. Both Germans were matched up against each other and both fought to get the better of each other. Barthel controlled  a long high rebound over Theis and then the new Bamberg player came right back down the floor getting an offensive rebound of a missed free throw over Barthel and getting the put back. Theis continued to shine on defense staying with the quick Larry Drew and swatting away his shot as if he was an octopus that had escaped from the sea. Soon after Theis got an offensive rebound and found Rice for the bucket. Here and there he made a mistake getting  a traveling call, but the positives outweighed the negative sin the game. In crunch time, Barthel was out, but Theis remained in. Miami totally lost concentration at the end as Washington finished the game on a 12-0 run to win 78-67. There had been 14 lead changes and 10 ties in the game. Theiss finished with four free throws and some rebounds. Glen Rice finished with 22 points and 10 rebounds, Otto Porter contributed 14 points and Daniel Theis recorded 10 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and four blocks in 18 minutes. The Miami Heat were led by Justin Hamilton with 15 points while Shabazz Napier and James Nunnally had 14 points a piece. The final stat line of Danilo Barthel was two points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and turnover in 13 minutes. At the end of the game, both German big men gave each other a small hug. Washington play the Spurs next and Miami play in the consolation round.

 

 

 

 

Luck and success sometimes come and go like the scoring ability of a Thomas Mueller  that has been successful at the World Cup the last two years or the misfortune for a Wayne Rooney in 2010 and 2014 and that happens just the same in the game of basketball where teams go on winning and losing streaks. It isn´t known if every member of the Miami Heat Summer League team sat through the incredible World Cup win of Germany last Sunday, but if they did, the players were unable to transport some of the German winning vibe on to the court for themselves as the club hasn´t been able to get a victory in two tries since Germany won their fourth World Cup game. Miami lost to the Clippers on Monday and a nail bitter against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday. Barthel had the chance to get some revenge against his teammate from the Fraport Skyliners Aziz Ndiaje who plays for the Los Angeles Clippers. However the Senegal big man didn´t get inserted again this time after getting a DNP on Monday. He did play the night after in a 83-60 losing cause against the Houston Rockets. In that game N Diaye played 8,53 minutes scoring two points, hauling down three rebounds, blocking one shot and getting a turnover. His problem continues to be fouls where he had four and his inaccuracy at the free throw line(2/4). With the 2014 NBA Summer League slowly coming to an end , it was the perfect chance for the players on both squads to get in some more good plays and woo the coaches and men in high places. However NDiaye sat on the bench again and had to wonder if he would ever face Barthel again in  a game or a practice down the road.

Tournament time had arrived in the NBA Summer League at Las Vegas with a do or die game between the two teams. Earlier in the day it has been reported by media outlets that James Ennis had been signed to a contract by Miami. Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra was in the stands looking relaxed checking out the action and possibly looking to add some more talent to his NBA roster as was Sam Cassell. The Miami Heat were without 2014 number one draft pick Shabazz Napier who was allowed to have the day off as he was off at the ESPY awards, but the club did get a top team contributer back with Justin Hamilton who had been out a few days. Danilo Barthel didn´t start the game, but witnessed from the bench as Hamilton got off to  a quick start as did Tyler Johnson who was inserted into the starting lineup as the mini human highlight film is usually good for one or two memorable actions that are packed into a ESPN moment just as Rajon Rondo does with one or two major fancy passes per game. Barthel came into the game at the 4.00 minute mark of the first quarter and got going right away scoring on a shuffle move and soon after hitting a catch and pop shot as it seems like his rainbow shot is getting brighter and brighter as the tournament progresses. On defense, he didn´t always have an easy time against Keith Benson. Clipper Cameroun Clark hit a buzzer beater at the end of the first quarter as they had the 21-20 advantage. In the second quarter, Barthel was in from the start, but played only until the 8.34 minute mark. Barthel wasn´t a factor on offense, but played solid defense. Miami went on a 10-0 run early, but the Clippers came back with big shots from Suggs and Nunnally. At the break the game was dead locked at 41-41.

In the third quarter, Barthel was on the bench as he watched the pace of the game improve and get quicker. There had been 10 lead changes in the game and five ties, but overall in the third quarter, the Miami Heat were able to heighten their offense a bit more as it was even more fluid. Miami really did a great job getting everyone involved and Shabazz Napier fill in Larry Drew was doing a superb job running the point and was clicking nicely with Justin Hamilton who he played with before in the D-League. In the last minute of the third quarter, the Los Angeles Clippers got some key buckets from Benson and Clark and trailed Miami only 69-65. In the fourth quarter, Danilo Barthel kept his red Miami Heat practice top on and at that point it seemed like his day was over on the court and he could sit back and await the Tyler Johnson  “What highlight play do you want next” to finally commence. The Miami Heat continued to get unselfish play from Frank Gaines who chipped in with big baskets off the bench and the Miami Heat kept the lead and would never relinquish it. Towards the end of the game, it wasn´t one massive high light play that had fans with major topic material to converse about on the ride home, but three massive plays that keeps one wondering if it is early enough for the rookie to get a NBA training camp invite. The first highlight was when Drew found Johnson cutting to the hoop and finding him for the dunk as he floated to the hoop without problem. The second play, he wasn´t far from center court and he somehow riffled a bullet pass to Suggs for the easy hoop and the third play he found Hamilton back door for the easy connection. In the end, the Miami Heat advanced with a 96-87 win and next play Washington on Thursday. Miami was led by Justin Hamilton with 18 points. Tyler Honeycutt had a huge game with 11 points and 15 boards and Larry Drew had 10 points and 10 rebounds. The Clippers were led by Keith Benson with 18 points and Deandre Liggins with 14 points. The final stat line for Danilo Barthel was five points, one rebound, one block and one turnover on 2/3 shooting in 5.26 minutes.

 

 

It is always very interesting and intriguing to witness how the future new young professional athletes come on to the scene and commence to battle each other for glory and success like now in the NBA with top point guards ShabazzNapier and Marcus Smart or in professional tennis on the side of the ladies with Eugenie Bouchard (Canada) and  Sloane Stephens (USA), on the mens side with Gregor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) and Nick Kyrgios (Australia  and in men’s football Adnan Januzaj (Manchester United and Belgium), and Alen Halilovic (Barcelona and Croatia). However another really fascinating duel that should develop in the next years especially in the German national basketball team is Fraport Skyliner Danilo Barthel and new Bamberg player Daniel Theis. Both players have been more and more in the focus the last months and in many ways Theis had received more adulation concerning his talent and where he is at the moment in comparison to Barthel, but stats don´t lie as last season in the Beko BBL Barthel averaged  in 27 minutes 11.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 78.4% while Theis averaged in 20 minutes 7.3ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 69.0%. One has to add that Theis has received more experience the last two seasons playing playoffs and Eurocup, while Barthel did not. Both guys will play a role in the future of the German national team and one can be excited about seeing many more duels. A few months ago, none of them would have expected a rare meeting in Las Vegas on the court, but that is what happened in the NBA Summer League as Barthel and the Miami Heat met Theis and the Washington Wizards. So far Theis hasn´t played as of a major role with Washington as Barthel has been with Miami as he has solidly been getting minutes and in Orlando played  4 games averaging 4.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, 0.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 31.6%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 75%. If someone asks them in 10 years about what meeting they will remember most head to head then it is likely both will name the 3OT win by the Fraport Skyliners rather than this NBA Summer League meeting in Las Vegas.

When looking at the Washington Wizards roster, Barthel as always has the chance to look forward playing against some players with NBA ties like Kim English who played with the Detroit Pistons and last season in France for Chorale, 255 pound beast Daniel Orton who played for the Orlando Magic and with ex ratiopharm Ulm guard Edgar Sosa at Kentucky(NCAA), Otto Porter and Glen Rice Jr of the Wizards or Maalik Wayns of the Los Angeles Clippers. He also had the batch of lesser known players coming out of the NCAA or playing outside the NBA like Khem Birch, Ian Chiles or Charles Gracia that last played for Al Muharraq (Bahrain-Premier League). Another interesting face to observe was new Mitteldeutscher BC guard Frantz Massenat who is a rookie coming out of Drexel(NCAA), but he sat on the bench and didn´t get inserted.

The Miami Heat entered the game with a 1-1 record in Las Vegas while the Washington Wizards waltzed into the game with a 2-0 record. A disastrous first quarter broke the back early for the Miami Heat and despite winning the last three quarters, they suffered a tight and bitter 85-83 loss. Fraport Skyliner Danilo Barthel started very slowly and didn´t get going until the fourth quarter were he was  a big help in the Miami come back while Daniel Theis started off roaring, but finished with a discreet yelp. The Washington Wizards got going quickly in the first quarter and before the Miami Heat had fully realized what had happened, they were behind 28-6. Timely shooting from Glen Rice Jr and Otto Porter helped lead the Washington charge. Barthel started the game again and played the first 10 minutes, but had no real flashes in the game except for  a big block early. He coughed up the ball twice and had had two fouls while missing a shot. Barthel was the only player on both teams that played the full 10 minutes. In the second quarter, Washington inserted Daniel Theis who was aggressive off the get go and got to the free throw line and grabbing some rebounds while also being hit with two fouls. Theis would make four more free throws to go into half time with 6/6 from the free throw line with one turnover and Washington led 51-38 as the Heat had massive problems rebounding. The only bright spot for Miami were the 11 turnovers for Washington.

In the third frame, the Miami Heat continued to claw their way back into the game as Washington couldn´t find that spice that had carried them so smoothly through the first quarter. Barthel was back in the game, but quickly got his third foul and made his first two points form the free throw line. Theis came in and played five minutes, but wasn´t effective as he got a foul and still hadn´t attempted a field goal. Washington still had the 68-60 advantage, but had an unacceptable 23 turnovers. In the fourth quarter, both Germans were in the game from the start and Barthel got going rapidly as he finally stopped his three point drought in Las Vegas hitting a three pointer and soon after made a field goal as Miami were threatening and gnawing at the Wizards lead. Theis attempted his first field goal after 12 minutes in the game, but missed. Barthel also dished out two assists including feeding Honeycutt for the dunk. However Miami couldn´t withstand a big bucket from Otto Porter and free throws that helped seal the Washington win. Usually when you make 28 turnovers, you lose, but Miami still couldn´t make up for 15 extra possessions the yhad due to 13 turnovers. Wizard Glen Rice Jr led all scorers with 24 points while Otto porter produced 19 points. James Nunnally led Miami with 19 points and Tyler Johnson had another effective game with 17 points. Shabazz Napier continues to struggle scoring eight points and handing out four assists, but shooting 2/16. The final stat line of the German boys was Danilo Barthel scoring 7 points on 2/5 shooting, getting three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 28 minutes while Theis scored six points, had seven rebounds and three turnovers in 16 minutes.

 

 

 

Living in Germany, one could have observed the 2014 World Cup final between Germany and Argentina in so many places like the famous fan mile in Berlin, the Commerz Bank arena in Frankfurt arena on the big screen where one is on the pitch where usually soccer players give their all, in any bar or of course in the privacy of your own home where one could have had a loudness contest with the neighbor above as too who was more boisterous in their cheering. However if someone has asked Fraport Skyliner Danilo Barthel two months ago where he would be watching the final, he probably wouldn´t have known completely where he would be with the German national team, but he most likely would never have expected it being Las Vegas, Nevada. On a rare day off during the NBA Summer Legaue in Las Vegas, Barthel got a feeling how Americans cheer for the worlds most famous sport soccer at the Hard Rock café. With the support of some German tourists, Barthel must of felt right at home watching Germany pull out a nail bitter 1-0 winning their fourth World Cup. It almost must have been a nice change for the Heidelberg native witnessing a very hard fought match where the home team won in crunch time, something he so often had misfortune doing last season with the Fraport Skyliners.

After posting a win with the Miami Heat in their debut in Las Vegas against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, Barthel was back at work again Tuesday battling against the Los Angeles Clippers. An exciting occurrence from game to game is competiting against so many talented players and at times also known faces. Barthel had the pleasure seeing  teammate Aziz NDiaye, the big man from Senegal who was a rookie out of Washington(NCAA) last season for the Fraport Skyliners. It was learning by doing for N Diaye last season as he had some big games like against Phoenix Hagen and often came from the bench and gave  a big presence in the zone on the defensive end. As big men, both guys had their moments during the season, but one could of described Barthel as the heavy dunker and Ndiaye as the soft dunker. It was just a shame as that Ndiaye didn´t play. The Los Angeles Clippers also boasted other very talented players on their rosters like NBA journey man Delonte West, or guys like Deandre Liggins and Keith Benson. There was also Jon Brockman who has played in the NBA and last season in France for Chalon and Wil Clyburn who Barthel will remember from the thrilling three OT win in Ulm and from the NBA Allstar game where he was in the dunk contest.

Danilo Barthel was in the starting lineup again and would play the most minutes so far in the NBA Summer League and he played in front of the watchful eyes of new Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and ex Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers. The first good play by Barthel was finding the open man Roberts who came hovering in from the wing for the massive slam dunk. Barthel didn´t have it easy playing defense against the very athletic Amath M Baye who put some spin moves on the German, but the Heidelberg Native stayed on his toes and played good hard nosed defense on him not allowing him to score on one play. Barthel also drew a foul in the first quarter where he made  a nice pump fake getting to the line. The game was low scoring in the first quarter as the Miami Heat led 19-18. Ex ratiopharm Ulm forward Wil Clyburn also got some minutes while Barthel played the complete 10 minutes. Barthel stayed in the game in the second quarter and scored his first field goal scoring with  a left handed shot after stretching the defense with a pump fake. He then grabbed a defensive rebound and left the game at the 8.06 minute mark of the second quarter. An NBA Summer League game wouldn´t be normal without some highlights and who not better than Tyler Johnson who is slowly becoming the mini human highlight film. He soared in the lane with his 1.93cm and dunked hard over the 2.03cm M Baye and drew the foul. Johnson doesn´t disappoint and should continue to be in the note books of many teams. Honeycutt also added a hard ally-op dunk to the highlight film reel and M Baye got some revenge on being dunked on nailing home a massive dunk where Barthel had enough time to look up and get out of the way. Barthel continued to play solid on defense, but did make a turnover where his anxiousness seemed him to lose control of the ball. Since coming to Las Vegas his three pointer has been way off the mark and Barthel knows it, but he seems just not too have the confidence at the moment. He also missed two free throws. At halftime the Los Angeles Clippers led 47-45.

Danilo Barthel started the third quarter and started off right away with a turnover as his happy feet danced one too many steps. However he quickly made up for that mistake showing once again how well he can run the floor as he got ahead of the pack of the Clippers transition defense and laid in a left handed shot. The third quarter also was filled with big  spectacular plays starting with two Johnson plays where on one he drove by Delonte West and got to the hole falling to his left and somehow banking the shot in. Johnson then blocked West, but West made  a good recovery getting the ball and shooting over Johnson on the second attempt. Then came the best play of the game as it was M Baye getting the perfect ally-op pass from West and dunking the ball home as Barthel had a first row seat under the basket. Miami played their best basketball of the game at the end of the third quarter making a comeback and 15-0 run to lead 68-64 after 30 minutes. James Nunnally hit some big buckets leading Miami back into the game. Barthel was in the game again to start the fourth quarter and was aggressive on the offensive end drawing a foul and hitting two free throws. The game continued to be tight and Barthel left at the 7.30 mark. Barthel came in again at the 4.20 mark, but he nor his teammates could hold Lorenzo Brown in check as he hit some big shots including a jumper over Barthel for the 88-85 lead which sealed the win. There was absolutely nothing he could do as good defense was beaten by better offense. The Los Angeles Clippers beat Miami 91-85 as the Miami Heat fell to 1-1 in Las Vegas. M Baye led all scorers with 27 points while Brown chipped in with 22 points for the Clippers. The Miami Heat were led by Scott Suggs with 14 points and Tyler Honeycutt produced 13 points. The final stat line of Barthel read eight points, three rebounds, one assist and two turnovers on 2/5 shooting in 33,34 minutes. Fraport Skyliner Aziz Ndiaye didn´t get into the game as he sat at the end of the bench and was able to observe how  his teammate Barthel has improved over the last two months. The Miami Heat next square off against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday.