The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have been known in the past few years as being one of those Beko BBL teams that doesn´t have the biggest budgets, but still have the power to haul in talented and interesting players within their budget that offer themselves to better teams with strong seasons in the Swaben city. In the past years, players like AJ Moye, Michael Haynes, Branislav Ratkovica or Jermaine Anderson have used The Walter Tigers Tuebingen as a place to tone their skills while also enjoying some juicy meat at the OX US steakhouse after practice or games. Tigers head coach Igor Perovic came on board in 2009 and has done a fine job keeping the team in the middle pack of the standing and sometimes grazing on the boundry of the playoff places like a famished cow on the pasture always hungry for more while having talented players according to their budget. Perovic was responsible for bringing in somewhat established players like Romeo Travis, Michael Jenkins, Chris Oliver and Dane Watts who have all moved on to bigger and better things on the basketball map. Especially last season, the Serb head coach had the right feeling bringing in Josh Young from the PRO B, Vaughn Duggins and Tyrone Nash from the NCAA and Reggie Redding from Cyprus and all four players eclipsed expectations and didn´t follow the trend of past years and fleeing to snatch the bigger bucks somewhere else, but already got contract extensions during their rookie seasons. American boy Reggie Redding had his breakout season in Tuebingen after a stellar season at Villanova where he played with NBA player Dante Cunningham and Beko BBL players Dwayne Anderson and Corey Stokes. Before coming to Tuebingen, Redding played his rookie year in Cyprus for Intercollege Etha Engomis. He had a solid season in Cyprus, but there was no real guarantee that he would explode in the higher league Beko BBL. However the American had little difficulty being a force in the German league averaging 13,2ppg, 5,8rpg and 3,3apg while shooting 50% from the field and 41% from downtown. He was awarded three eurobasket.com awards and sent Igor Perovic into summer vacation with a smile and being able to whisper the words “I told you so” to possible critics. Redding has been fighting his whole career with failed recognition, but doesn´t let it bother him. “I have been dealing with this all my life being under the radar. Many people don´t know how good I can be, but that doesn´t matter. I just try to do whatever it takes to help my team win. People not knowing this isn´t going to change the way I play. I think that I am a lot better shooter for what people give me credit for. Last season opponents really let me shoot. I worked on my shot last summer. I think that I can do many things great and not just one. This has helped me become the complete player that I am today”, stressed Philadelphia native Reggie Redding. In his second season in Tuebingen heightened his stats from last season and it wasnt only offense that does the talking on the court, but his defense. “He is one of the best defenders that I ever played with”, warned ex BBC Bayreuth American Corey Stokes. His teammates know what his worth was two seasons ago. “He was so value to us with his defense, passing and rebounding”, stressed Indiana native Vaughn Duggins. Against Frankfurt in 2011-2012, Redding had nine points and six rebounds in a loss in Tuebingen and then exploded in a win in Frankfurt with 24 points, eight rebounds and five assists. In his second season with Tuebingen, he improved his stats more as his responsibility grew playing 34 games: 14.0ppg, 5.4rpg, 4.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.1%. After two seasons in Tuebingen, it was time to say goodbye as he moved to 8 time Beko BBL champion Alba Berlin. He paid his dues with Tuebingen and this season won his first Beko BBL title the cup with Alba Berlin. Despite a much more talented and deep roster than in Tuebingen, the Philadelphia native has held his own and is the second top scorer behind David Logan and has shown that his skils and mind can work with a top level team. It doesn´t matter if he is mr everything in Tuebingen or a part of many in Berlin, he can fit into any system. His stats are a bit down from Tuebingen, but with so many scorers with Alba Belrin, that is only normal. Redding is averaging 12,2ppg, 4,2rpg and 3,5apg. He has scored in double figures 20 times including 23 points against Oldenburg. He was just as impressive in Eurocup play averaging 12,9ppg, 4,8rpg and 3,7apg and scored in double figures 16 times including 24 points against Valencia. Redding will be an instrumental part in the chances of Alba Berlin winning a second title this season. He already showed his worth with a buzzer beater against Bonn sending his team to the Cup top four.
Myles Hesson(Giessen 46ers) BG Goettingen Had A Healthy Roster And Ultimately Out Worked Us Down The Stretch
Myles Hesson is a 23 year old 195 cm forward from Birmingham, England that is one of the 12 best players in Great Britain and was selected for the 2013 national team playing in Slovenia at the Eurochampionships. He currently is playing in the German Pro A this season for the Giessen 46ers. Last season he played for Weissenhorn Youngstars (Germany-ProB, starting five): 20 games: 19.7ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 54.4%, 3FGP: 27.4%, FT: 65.6%, in Mar.’13 moved to Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany-BBL): 9 games: 4.2ppg, 2.8rpg. He started his professional career in 2009-2010 for Birmingham Aces (EBL2) averaging 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 33.3%. In 2010-2011, he played for the Essex Pirates Basketball Club (BBL): 11 games: 9.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 68.4%. Last season he played for Liverpool Mersey Tigers (BBL, starting five): 27 games: 15.1ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 61.5%. This past summer, he was a member of the British national team taking part in preparations for the 2012 Summer Olympics. He also took part at the British 3×3 Mixed and menTeam for World Championships in Greece in 2012. He spoke to German Hoops after being swept by BG Goettingen in the 2014 pro A playoffs.
A tough 83-71 loss to BG Goettingen in game three which ended the season for the Giessen 46ers. What ultimately led 2010 Eurochallenge winner BG Goettingen to be able to sweep this semi final series?
They had a full healthy team and ultimately out worked us down the stretch.
Was the BG Goettingen roster just deeper and more experienced that just ate away at Giessen?
Yeah they have a very good bench and don’t lose much fire-power when their second unit is in.
You missed the second straight game for Giessen. How good would the Giessen chances have been if you had been healthy in this series to advance?
Its hard to say, I could have played and not made much difference, or it could have gone the other way and I could have had great games against them.
Giessen stormed out hot in the first quarter with a 31 point explosion. What surprise effect did Giessen have on offense that seemed to baffle BG Goettingen?
We came out much more aggressive in game 3 and I think Goetingen were a bit shocked by this.
What adjustments did BG Goettingen make in the second quarter netting 23 points and trailing Giessen only by one point at the break?
Basketball is a game of runs, they weathered the storm at the start and stayed composed to bring it back on run of their own.
How proud were you of German Joshiko Saibou? He led the team with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Is his heart bigger than his body?
Joshi has played bigger than he is all season long, He has a good feel for the ball and is a good rebounder on both ends.
If you could choose one BG Goettingen player, who will make the most impact in the Beko BBL? Would you choose between Americans Harper Kamp and Alex Ruoff?
I think Ruoff’s game will transfer well to the next level, he has good size and skills for his position.
Now that BG Goettingen has reached the final and is moved up to the Beko BBL. Is the final against Nurnberg or Crailsheim just a formality for them to win the Pro A title?
Yeah I would think so, they’ve been the best team all season so its only right that they win in my opinion.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Cable Guy.
Thanks Myles for the chat.
The Fraport Skyliners GIve Captain Marius Nolte A 72-65 Victory In His Last Home Game
For a while, reaching that last home game for the regular season wasn´t the last home game for the Frankfurt Skyliners, because in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, the 2004 Beko BBL champion would have extended home games in May as they reached the Beko BBL playoffs four years in a row. In the last three years visiting the Fraport arena in May, one wouldn´t have seen any baskets on the court, but just a dark arena with the last basketball season already a painful distant memory. Especially last seasons last home game was nothing for weak nerves as the club had their second do or die game in their existence in terms of staying or possibly dropping down the league a sin 2006 they were saved on the last game day against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and last season won a nail bitter against Ludwigsburg. This season, the team had nothing to worry about as they were far away from the cellar to be at any risk of moving down and enough wins shy of reaching the playoffs as their dismal 2014 and crucial crunch time loses disallowed them extra games in May. So with the last home game of the season against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, there was really only one thing to look forward to and that was seeing ex Fraport Skyliner Derrick Allen battle in the zone and dazzle the fans with his ballerina moves. It seems ages since Allen last played in Frankfurt as the only two players left from the 2009-2010 season where Allen last played in Frankfurt were Quantez Robertson and Marius Nolte. Besides observing the Alabama native one could also watch Frankfurt legend Derrick Allen vs future Frankfurt legend Danilo Barthel. 33 year old Allen is in the twighlight of his career and 25 p 12 rebound nights aren´t present as much, but he still gives 110% and is consistent as he scored in double figures 15 times in his first 16 games. Barthel is on the verge of the German national team and wanted to finish his last home game of the season with a bang. Both guys know how to score and Allen can always catch his defender on the wrong foot with his ballerina moves. Allen was back in his old stomping ground and had a tough hard fought duel with Barthel, but he couldn´t come out on top as the Alabama native had to depart from the floor with a 72-65 loss. For the ex Alba Berlin player Allen it is always a joy to come home, but his presence was more of a side note in his eyes as his humbleness was there as always. “It is always good to come home and a joy to play for the fans, but the game was more for Marius Nolte than for me. It more about him than me”, smiled ex BG Karlsruhe forward Derrick Allen. Allen had his typical type of game finishing with 12 points and six rebounds and three steals as Danilo Barthel had eight points, three rebounds and two blocks. He may have been in the shadow of Darius Adams and his 23 points, but he got Bremerhaven going at the start with points and offensive rebounds. Bremerhaven Calvin Oldham couldn´t have asked for more from the 33 year old. “He is our captain and leader. He did everything that I asked him to do this season. I am happy that the Frankfurt fans greeted him so nicely. He really couldn´t have played better for his age this season”, stressed 1989 BBL champion with Bayreuth Calvin Oldham. 2014 Beko BBL best offensive player Darius Adams got big eyes when asked about the worth of Allen to the team. “D.A was the best leader that I could have been around. He taught me to be a leader. I am still learning from him. Even when we are losing he kept us together”, warned Darius Adams.
Every good thing always comes to an end, but for professional athletes retiring from the job they love comes a lot earlier than for the normal individual. Marius Nolte is a 33 year old 206cm center from Paderborn that played for Paderborn from 2001-2009 and came to Frankfurt in 2009. His best stat season was 2010-2011 as he averaged 5.1ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 71.4%. He was a guy that never played much, but was the leader of the team and was always there for everyone on and off the court and was the perfect role model for the young kids. Coming into his last home game, Nolte had played 246 Beko BBL games with 140 for Frankfurt and 106 for Paderborn.This season he was out for most of the year as he was coming off a knee injury and played only nine games scoring five points in Ludwigsburg and Vechta. Not too long ago he announced that this would be his last season. The game against Bremerhaven was very emotional as his parents and wife watched on as he said farewell after the game in a teary eyed speech. Gordon Herbert allowed him to start his last home game and he contributed four points in nine minutes. It seemed like this time his post game routine took a lot longer as he posed for every picture and autograph and granted every interview. Nolte was very emotional after the game, but was thrilled for the way his last game was received. “It was a great atmosphere in the arena. I am happy that we won and it couldn´t have been a better ending to my last game at home. Derrick Allen came to me before and after the game and wished me the best. Also throughout the game players from Bremerhaven came to me and wished me the best. I thought that this was great to see the togetherness that is present in the Beko BBL”, stressed Marius Nolte. Missouri native and injured Skyliner Dane Watts was in awe to be able to witness a game where he could feel the special atmosphere of having a Derrick Allen playing in his old living room and the farewell to Marius Nolte. “Allen has had a long career and great years in Frankfurt. He had a good game today, but Frankfurt got the win. The reception that Nolte got speaks for itself. It just shows how important and special he has been to this organization. Every player wants a farewell like that”, stressed ex Tuebingen forward Dane Watts. Nolte will move into Skyliner management and suit up for the Pro B farm club.
Besides the emotional Marius Nolte farewell at home, there was also a 40 minute basketball game to be played as 4540 fans found their way into the Fraport arena. The Fraport Skyliners entered the game in 11th place with a record of 13-19 and had a two game winning streak and were coming off a huge buzzer beater win in Vechta as Fraport Skyliner Kevin Bright displayed that light bright whenever he nailed three pointers. The Fraport Skyliners didn´t play a great game, but it was enough to win as they picked up their game in the fourth quarter. “This was a tough game, but nice to see familiar faces. We want to end the season on a good note. We didn´t do too much well until the fourth quarter when we got the lead up to 10 points and played the way we should”, stressed Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven entered the game in 13th place and had a 11-21 record. They weren´t having too much luck the last weeks as they were riding a six game losing streak and were coming off a tough 75-72 loss against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg. After the loss, Bremerhaven head coach Calvin Oldham was sullen, but was able to find the right words as too why his club had problems winning this game. “We simply don´t have enough deepness when we have this double weekend games. Both games against Wurzburg and Frankfurt were physical. We were without Philipp Ziwener and Nick Schneiders which hurt us. Frankfurt rebounded better and attacked at the right moments and kind of caught us on our heels a few times. Frankfurt was aggressive on offensive boards and we couldn´t handle it which was a sign of fatigue. However our guys fought hard”, stressed Eisbaeren head coach Calvin Oldham.
With the game being meaningless for both teams, Fraport Skyliner head coach Gordon Herbert inserted captain Marius Nolte and Max Merz into the starting lineup. Fraport Skyliner Kevin Bright had a huge game in Vechta with seven three pointers 48 hours ago, but his bright light from then wasn´t shinning yet as he made a bad pass which American Darius Adams picked off and went coast to coast for the lay in. However Bright made up for his mistake shinning some of that three point light hitting form the parking lot for the 3-2 Frankfurt lead. Allen then made his patent fade away jumper and despite his 33 years looked like it could have been something out of his BG Karlsruhe days. Both teams would swap leads as much society girl Paris Hilton does her hobbies as it would go back and fourth. Danilo Barthel then hit a three pointer with one second left on the shot clock after Merz had been denied inside and kicked the ball out. Bremerhaven then went on a quick 7-0 run to lead 11-6 as Allen scored via his patent ballerina movies and Adas Juskevicious hit a runner. This was probably the strongest phase of Bremerhaven in the game as they extended their lead to 19-10 as Darius Adams took over as offensive force scoring twice inside as his quickness was steering up big problems for Frankfurt, ex TBB Trier forward Brian Harper scored on a running hook shot and Adams tossed up the perfect ally-op pass that ex Giessen guard Anthony Smith dunked home. However Frankfurt collected themselves and hustled back into the game ending the first quarter with an 8-2 run to cut the Bremerhaven lead to 21-18. Burtschi and Quantez Robertson scored back to back coast to coast lay ups coming off Bremerhaven turnovers, and Jarred Dubois hit a runner. “Derrick Allen really got Bremerhaven going. I felt both teams had problems coming back on transition defense”, stressed Dane Watts. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 50% from the field and 0% form outside while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 47% from the field and 29% from outside. Bremerhaven had the big 12-5 rebound edge and both teams had three turnovers a piece.
The second quarter was very tight as there were seven lead changes and nobody could take advantage of it as both teams went into the break dead locked at 39-39. Frankfurt retook the lead as some role players took control. Aziz Ndiaye had some luck as a Jacob Burtschi shot was blocked, but reached the big man which he layed home and little used German Stefan Ilzhoefer nailed a three pointer from the parking lot as Frankfurt led 23-22. Then in a matter of minutes there were four lead changes as Adams took over showing his immense basketball talent hitting contested jumpers and then tip toeing between the two guards and then somehow sneaking home a lay in past Barthel and Ndiaye. Frankfurt got production via a Robertson three pointer and Burtschi runner, but Bremerhaven still led 29-28. Frankfurt retook the lead with the seventh lead change of the game as they went on a 8-0 run to lead 36-30 as Barthel and Bright dropped back to back three pointers and Dubois hit an off balance shot. However Frankfurt was unable to find consistency in their game and take the momentum into halftime as they allowed the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven to close out the second quarter 9-3. American Devin Searcy scored inside, hit free throws as did Juskevicious and Adams nailed a tough shot over Super Tez as he made a stutter step and fell back with the Skyliner in the face, but catching nothing but net. “Adams kept them going and we forced them too tough shots and they ahd problems getting back on transition defense”, stated Dane Watts. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 52% from the field and 33% from the three point line while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 47% from the field and 14% from the three point line. Bremerhaven had the 17-13 rebound advantage and both teams suffered six turnovers a piece.
In the third quarter, the Fraport Skyliners were able to break away from the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven leading 60-53 after 30 minutes. The Eisbaeren did get on the board first retaking the lead 42-39 with a Brian Harper three pointer. However Frankfurt responded going on a 5-0 run to lead 44-42 as Klein scored inside and Robertson nailed a three pointer. The lead was quickly erased with another step back jumper from Adams over Tez as the game was tied 44-44. Johannes Voigtmann then took matters into his own hands scoring five unanswered points scoring with a lay in and then on the fast break as the trailer and Klein added on to the run with a three pointer as Frankfurt led 52-44. Allen then converted a 15 foot jumper and Barthel scored inside as Frankfurt still led 54-46. Then came perhaps the prettiest play by Jacob Burtschi as he penetrated and found big man Ndiaye with the underhand pass for the massive dunk as Frankfurt led 56-46 having their biggest lead of the contest. However Bremerhaven continued to chip away at the Frankfurt lead as Harper connected on an open three pointer and Smith scored inside. Burtschi hit some free throws in the last minute as Frankfurt led 60-53. “We stopped attacking and started taking jumpers. When we did get inside, we had problems making free throws. We had problems executing without Adas Juskevicious who was hurt. We had problems with play calling and decisions”, stated Calvin Oldham. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 52% from the field and 37% from the parking lot while the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 41% from the field and 23% from the parking lot. Bremerhaven had the 27-21 rebound advantage, but nine turnovers while Frankfurt had eight turnovers.
In the fourth quarter, the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven had a little energy left in their gas tank at the start to make a run, but Frankfurt was too potent extending their lead again as the opponent had cut it down to two points. Bremerhaven came out roaring in the fourth quarter going on a 5-0 run as Allen scored inside and Adams and Harper made free throws as the Frankfurt lead had dwindled down to 60-58. Frankfurt then decided the game with a 8-0 run to lead 68-58 as they made two spectacular plays in a row led by German Johannes Voigtmann. On the first play with the shot clock at one second, he took an off balance three pointer that went in and then showed his passing qualities once again as Harlem Globetrotter basketball was in the house as he made a no look pass behind to Robertson who made the lay in. Adams then gave Bremerhaven a little more daylight with a bomb from outside, but Bright quickly erased any last hopes with an off balance shot as Frankfurt led 71-61. Searcy and Burtschi then made free throws and Smith made the last bucket of the game as Marius Nolte left the floor as a winner. “We had bad shot selection, Frankfurt rebounded better an dhit some last second shots and in the second half, they wanted it more than we did”, warned Derrick Allen. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Quantez Robertson with 15 points. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were led by Darius Adams with 23 points. Derrick Allen contributed with 12 points. Anthony Smith added 11 points and Brian Harper 11 points. Frankfurt shot better than Bremerhaven at 48% from the field and 33% from outside to the 38% from the field and 22% from outside for Bremerhaven. Frankfurt came back to win the rebound duel 35-34. Frankfurt had 14 turnovers and Bremerhaven 11 turnovers. Alba Berlin welcomes the Fraport Skyliners May 1st for the last game of the season.
Kris Douse(EVL Limburg) I Am All About Being Efficient
Kris Douse is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Toronto, Canada playing for EVL-Baskets Limburg (Germany-Regionalliga) this season. He played at Laurinburg (N.C.) Institute while Fraport Skyliner Quantez Robertson played at Laurinburg (N.C.) prep. He started his college career at Nebraska (NCAA) and then played two seasons at Delaware State. As a senior he played at Point Park (NAIA) playing 27 games: 20.1ppg, 12.6rpg. In 2011-2012 he started his professional basketball career at Liverpool Mersey Tigers (United Kingdom-BBL, starting five): 18 games: 15.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 13.6%, FT: 54.6%; then agreed terms with Keflavik (Iceland-Express League): 6 games: 9.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 44.7%, FT: 69%. Last season he played for Turi Svitavy (Czech Republic-NBL): 2 games: 0pts, left in Oct.’12, in Nov.’12 moved to BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) playing 17 games: 14.1ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.6%, 3Pts: 10.0%, FT: 50.4%. He spoke to German Hoops after season ending win against Mainz.
Kris congrats on winning your last game of the year at home against Mainz. What was key for getting the victory against the seventh ranked team?
We were ready for the fast tempo and it was to our liking. We are a very athletic team and with the addition of Antoni Miller, it really helped us to play fast. It was a lot of fun to go out and run when you have a guy like him on the team.
You were averaging 26 ppg coming into your last Regionaliga game and you put up 31 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Was this another day at the office?
I scored 40 against Giessen last weekend and was starting to get into a groove. It is only too bad that the season ended today.
What really caught my attention was that the majority of your points comes very close to the basket. You use your athletic ability to your advantage. Was this just the best way how you could get baskets in the Regionaliga or why didn´t one see more shooting from the mid distance or more of a variety to get points?
My game is suited to scoring and in this league I can use my basketball IQ best. It is simple for me to get to the rim and if I can do it each time then I will. In this league I do what works best and that is scoring at the rim. I am all about being efficient.
In the past you played in England and the Czech Republic and last year for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). How would you summarize your season and experience playing for VFL Limburg?
My experience playing for Limburg was good. Coach Danny Stahllbohm gave me a lot of freedom. I wanted to develop my game further this year and I feel I did. I played at 15-20 pounds lighter this season. I would have liked to have won more, but I felt as a player I achieved what was expected of me.
VFL Limburg had a very disappointing season landing in 13th place. What were the main reasons for the subpar season?
We had many injuries from the start and when you are in a situation like that you get that snowball effect on the whole team. However I commend the whole team, because it wasn´t easy, but we got through the season.
VFL Limburg lost American Ronald Howard mid way through the season. Would the club have had more success had he stayed on board?
I know we would have had a better season with him. We were missing that point guard to set up the scorers. We had a lot of scorers and not having that point guard took a lot from our game.
I was really impressed by Antoni Miller who played only two games. It looked like you had a lot of fun playing with him on the court.
I liked his game a lot. He was a rookie and you could see how hungry he was. I loved his energy and athletic ability. He really pulled up the speed of our game. When we run with him, good things happen. I feel that he can play at a higher level.
What is the next step for Kris Douse?
I will continue to train this summer and wait for the next opportunity. I won´t change anything. I think that with my training regime, I had my best season as a professional.
If someone had told you before the start of the 2013-2014 NBA season that Toronto Raptors would be one of the best teams in the east would you have believed them?
I always have faith in my team. They have good talent at the wings and at the center position with the Lithuanian player. I always root for the home team. We have a lot of pride in Toronto.
Were you surprised that UConn won the 2014 NCAA title?
I didn´t follow college basketball so much this season, but UConn has a great program. They have always had a winning tradition. They know how to win, so it didn´t surprise me.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Ride Along with Kevin Hart and Ice T. A very funny movie.
Thanks Kris for the chat.
Seven Kevin “The Light Is” Bright Three Pointers And His Buzzer Beater Send The Fraport Skyliners Into Basketball Heaven Over SC Rasta Vechta 76-75
The last time Max Weber had a Skyliner jersey draped over his sweat filled body while lunging for a loose ball over Darius Hall who was also on the floor battling, ex Fraport Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin was winning titles in the Czech Republic with Nymburk in 2009. Weber was always the quintessential role player no matter where he played, but had to fight for his minutes like any other player. In his last season in Frankfurt, Weber reached the playoffs losing to the EWE Baskets Oldenburg in the quarterfinals 3-1 as his teammates included Derrick Mr ballerina Allen, Konrad the professor Wysocki, Pascal Mr reliable Roller or Illian swishhhhhhhhhh Evitomov. However his time in Frankfurt was up and he moved on to Giessen where he helped the team reach their best position of 14th and best since the 2005-2006 season playing 28 games and often sparkling through his defensive prowess. The next season he took a step back going to the Saar-Pfalz Braves (ProA, starting five): 27 games: 11.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 60.0%. His solid season got him a ticket back to the big game to the Beko BBL with BG Goettingen. However in the last three seasons, his luck has changed as the teams that he has played for BG Goettingen, Ludwigsburg all landed in the cellar. Ludwigsburg only remained in the Beko BBL, because it paid for a wildcard. So often in life and in the basketball world, three is a charm, but not for the German Weber who once gained experience in Peru, who has had a season to forget in Vechta as this team is also in the cellar and will move back to the Pro A. Weber has played only 20 games averaging 9,5 minutes per game and 1.4ppg and 1,5rpg. He just hasn´t been able to break the rotation of head coach Pat Elzie the way he has wanted to. In the first loss in Frankfurt, Weber played nine minutes. In the return game in Vechta, there was no teammate on Frankfurt that had played with him back in Frankfurt in 2008-2009 and Weber was only younger than Quantez Robertson and Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. Weber was focused to play his old team again, but his mood was severely dampened after the buzzer beater loss to Frankfurt 76-75 which officially sent them back to the second Bundesliga.and reflected on his bad luck of being on Beko BBL teams that have moved down the last years. ”This was a bitter loss and we knew that the season would be tough. I came to Vechta, because I wanted to study at the same time. I didn´t even go to morning practices, but just evening practices. I had injuries and pain and never found my role in the team. I thought I wouldn´t break even with Wayne Bernard with three times having to depart the Beko BBL, but I did against my ex team Frankfurt. But it was still the right decision for me to come to Vechta”, stressed ex Fraport Skyliner Max Weber. His teammate Richard Williams had an expression of sorrow on his face after the loss while eating a dish of fish in the second floor in the Rasta Dome arena and was content that no player can really be responsible for a team moving down. “Max Weber had bad luck. You never want to be attached with moving down, but that is a part of the sport. It can happen to anyone. Max played quality minutes for us. There is so much to love about his game. He helped us so much on the court”, stressed California native Richard Williams.
Alex Ruoff (BG Goettingen) This Is Playoff Basketball Where Each Team Elevates Their Game
Alex Ruoff is a 27 year old 198cm guard from Spring Hill, Florida that is playing his fifth professional season and first with BG Goettingen. He played at West Virgina from 2005-2009 and as freshman was a roommate of ex German national player Johannes Herber. Ruoff started his professional career in 2009 with Belgacom Liege Basket (Belgium-D1): EuroChallenge: 12 games: 10.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 75.0%; Belgian League: 37 games: 6.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 78.4%. He then played the next two seasons with Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-D1). Last season he played for Canton Charge (D-League): 24 games: 7.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 84.0%, in Mar.’13 signed at Iowa Energy (D-League): 11 games: 11.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 67.6%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT: 72.2%, in Apr.’13 moved to Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium-Ethias League, starting five): 10 games: 9.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to eurobasket after the 74-65 game two win in Giessen.
Alex congrats on the game two win in Giessen. It didn´t seem as easy for BG Goettingen despite Giessen not having the services of Myles Hesson.
It was not an easy win. You have to give credit to Giessen as they hard and with heart. It was not a pretty win.
What was key for the big 14-1 start by BG Goettingen in game two?
We had a slow start in game two in Essen and ever since that game, we have keyed on trying to have fast starts like tonight in our games.
Ahmad Smith(Rent4Office) We Feel We Had A Chance To Win Not Playing Our Best Basketball And This Gives Us Confidence Going Into Game Three
Ahmad Smith is a 29 year old 194cm guard from Virginia that is playing his second season for the Rent4Office of the German PRO A. He started the season BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProA)12 games: 7.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.7apg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 72.2%, in Jan.’13 moved to Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProA, starting five): 19 games: 9.6ppg, Reb-4(8.5rpg), Assists-2(6.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 35.5%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 77.6% He played at St.Bonaventure(NCAA) from 2002-2006 and in his senior year played 28 games: ScoreA10-8(14.2ppg), RebA10-10(6.2rpg), AssistsA10-9(3.5apg), FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 59.8%. In 2006-2007, he played for Mardyke UCC Demons Cork (Ireland-SuperLeague): 9 games: 18.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 60.8%. In 2007-2008, he played for SVD 49 Dortmund (Regionalliga): 6 games: 30.2ppg. In 2008-2009, he played for : BSV Wulfen (Germany-Regionalliga) 23.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 6.0apg, 3PT: 35.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for Hertener Loewen (Germany-ProB)29 games: 18.2ppg, Reb-2(8.7rpg), Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA): left before the season started, then moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Germany-Regionalliga): 6 games: 12.8ppg, waived in Nov.’10, in Jan.’11 signed at Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProB, starting five): 15 games: 8.3ppg, 6.8rpg, Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 69.1%. Last season for the Kichheim Knights he played 35 games: 9.9ppg, 6.1rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 62.0% He spoke to German Hoops Before game three against Crailsheim.
A tough 82-88 loss in game two. How well have you digested this loss?
I try not to get too high or low during the playoffs because of the short turn around in games. So it’s on to the next one.
How bitter was losing this game at home? With a win, you could be up 2-0 and go back to Crailsheim to seal the series.
We always take pride in winning in front of our home crowd especially in the playoffs.
In the fourth quarter, the game was tied 57-57 and Crailsheim took the lead and would never trail again. The game stayed tight, but Rent4office just could regain the lead. What was key at the end for Crailsheim winning on the road?
We didn’t make key plays and they did. Our defense wasn’t good enough in the fourth quarter.
You shot better as a team from outside and had 18 team assists. Does this give the team added self confidence going into Crailsheim to get a second straight win on the road?
We feel we had a chance to win not playing our best basketball. This gives us confidence going into game three
X and o´s become second nature and effort and heart and what else will determine game three?
Minimizing mistakes and knowing your strengths and weaknesses and what got you to this point.
BG Goettingen lead 2-0. Do you see any chance of Giessen forcing a game four?
Goettingen hasn’t lost at home all season so it will be tough. But anything is possible.
There are five 1-1 series in the NBA playoffs. Which series has surprised you the most?
The two 8 seeds winning on the road surprised me.
Why did the New York Knicks have a poor season? Would a guy like Carmelo Anthony be good seeing a change of scenery?
They had some key injuries early and fell too deep in the standings. Yeah I feel Carmelo should leave if he wants to win a championship soon.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
Meet the Fockers.
Thanks Ahmad for the chat.
Richard Williams (SC Rasta Vechta) The Promise Came From The Biggest Heart, But Reality Is Making It Difficult To Full-Fill It
There are always those enchanting stories of players coming from smaller schools that have to start at the bottom of the basketball league food chain and through strong performances and keeping stats consistent make the jump to higher leagues. This scenario has been displayed in the German basketball leagues with guys like Jason Boone, Devin Uskoski or Jacob Doerkson moving up from the Regionaliga and Pro B leagues to find their niche in the Beko BBL. Another guy who has done this is California native Richard Williams who excelled at San Diego State8NCAA) an dthen worked his way up the German leagues starting with UBC Hannover in 2011 in the Pro B where he averaged 18.3ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-4(5.7apg), Steals-2(3.2spg), FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.8%. Last season he was an instrumental part for SC Rasta Vechta moving up to the Beko BBL where he averaged 15.6ppg, 5.2rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), Steals-1(2.5spg), FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 79.9%. Williams came into the Beko BBL knowing that his hard work really had paid off. “I am not surprised at all. Its been a long time coming for me to get to this point. This is my opportunity to show what I am made of. Hard work, faith and patience have been good to me. I believe so. I am not the first to start from the bottom and I wont be the last. There have been guys before me that made this opportunity possible. Without those guys no one would look for talent in the lower leagues”, stressed Richard Williams. It has been a rocky season for SC Rasta Vechta as they were 3-12 in 2013 and in 2014 are also 3-12, but suffered an untimely 12 game losing streak which undoubtedly sealed their fate for the next season in the Pro A. They lost some close games to MBC and the Telekom Baskets Bonn in this 12 game losing streak, but the club and league knows that SC Rasta Vechta are a different team than their record translates. “We’re definitely better than our record shows. Our games prove it. We need to translate these close losses into wins. Knowing that we’re in every game is a positive thing but its frustrating to keep losing these close battles”, warned Richard Williams. This season Williams has proved that he belongs in the Beko BBL as he has been among the leagues top in scoring, assists and steals, but didn´t get an invitation to the 2014 Beko BBL All Star game. He battles the leagues top point guards each week and has held his own all season long. “I prepared for Per the same way I prepare for anyone else. Extra film and looking for tendencies. Per is a very good and crafty player so I couldn’t just take away any one thing and think I could stop him. I just wanted to keep him under pressure and make him work for everything. I definitely feel I belong in the All-Star game but I’m not. It is what it is and I have to move on. I’ll speak with the way I play. This is just extra motivation to show everyone I belong to be mentioned with the best in this league. Nothing I’m not used to. Two seasons ago I was told I wasn’t good enough and had to start from the Pro B. Look at me now”, warned Richard Williams. In the long losing streak, Williams did his best trying to help his club win each agme and was a leader scored in double figures in 11 of 12 games. Basketball is a team game an dthe blame is never on only one player. Williams has the heart of a Lion who is cornered by their enemy the buffalo and somehow has the will to escape, but can´t really and must go through hardships just like on the court. Shortly before the new year 2014, Williams made a promise, but reality just didn´t want to fulfill it. “We have a team full of confident players that will grind out every game to make sure it happens that we will remain in the league. We will survive because I will make sure we survive“, warned Richie Williams. Williams may have very confident words, but if there is one guys who lets his play talk then its Williams. He is the first SC Rasta Vechta player that will leave his jersey on the floor before he leaves in a loss. The club probably would have had even less wins had Williams not been on the team. His teammates support the effort of Williams. “Richie has played an important role this season, as he has the past three years we have played together. He is an extremely quick player, and brings a great intensity to the game. I don’t think that you can attribute our teams losing streak to any specific player. Basketball is a team game, and being so we should take the praise for the wins together, and the negativity of losses together”, stressed Jacob Doerkson.
Steven Bennett(Giessen46ers) We have To Be More Aggressive Than BG Goettingen In Game Three
Steven Bennett is a 25 year old 173cm point guard from Los Angeles that is playing his second professional basketball season with the Giessen 46ers. Last season he played for the Spot Up Medium Baskets Braunschweig. With Braunschweig he played 10 games averaging 22.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.1apg, 2.4spg, 2FGP: 57.5%, 3FGP: 34.2%, FT: 76.6% He is one of the few special players that has a tenacity and will to win that is unmatched; it is impossible to judge him based upon height alone because he can compete with anyone in the world. He has proven this in the Maui Invitational division I tournament in 2010, and was recognized as one of the top players (All-Maui Award) from a field of other top US point guards such as Kemba Walker, Kailin Lucas and Brandon Knight. Bennett is known for his great court vision and passing ability, and is able to get in the lane at will and finish against anyone with either left or right hand. Every team bases their defensive strategy around Bennett and is forced to take create his own shot and take his three point shots off the dribble. He is an excellent shooter, but wants to continue to improve his already respectable 40% three point percentage. Steven is known for having excellent leadership skills, and is highly respected by all of his peers and coaches. He played at Citrus JC (JUCO) from 2007-2009 and then played at Chaminade (NCAA2). Last summer he also found experience playing for the Rockingham Flames (Australia-SBL) He played three games with 2013 NBA draft pick Dennis Schroeder last season in the Pro B. He spoke to eurobasket after the 74-65 loss in game two against BG Goettingen.
A tough 74-65 loss in game two against BG Goettingen. Why does Giessen continue to start so bad into games?
I feel that at times we lack that sense of urgency. Coach Wucherer has addressed this problem with us. Having this problem may be because we are one of the youngest teams in the league.
What led to the 14-1 BG Goettingen start into the game?
We lacked toughness and they came out like they wanted it more than us and that hurt us.
BG Goettingen impresses with their strong ball movement. How difficult is it to defend that in a playoff game that has meaning?
Their ball movement is so good and one of the reasons is that it never stops moving. It just keeps going and going. You can see that they really want to win the title. The good ball movement has a lot to do with the veteran play which really helps their system.
What was key in crunch time for BG Goettingen getting the win?
We didn´t get stops at the end. I thought that we pressured them well, but also were unlucky that we didn´t get wide rebounds or loose balls.
Giessen was outrebounded badly again. How do you want to rebound better in game three?
I hope that Myles Hesson will be back. We just have to play tougher as a team on the boards.
With Myles Hesson out, did you feel a lot of pressure having to step up?
I felt more pressure as did my teammates who had the need to step up. We had to be more aggressive as a team.
What was your impression of American Alex Ruoff who looked so calm in any situation where he ahd the ball?
You can tell right away that he understands game. He plays with a lot of confidence and that helps his team very much.
Giessen also has had problems with Harper Kamp who has scored 37 points and grabbed 18 rebounds in the two game series. Why is he so difficult to defend?
He is a very hard worker and probably one of the hardest workers in the German Pro A. His size and motor causes problems for every team in the league.
Your teammate Joshiko Saibou has showed so much heart in this series. Is there anyone with a bigger heart than him?
It is so big and he has a fire and passion for the game like I have never seen before. He plays his heart out in every game.
Giessen now has another do or die game in Goettingen on Friday. What will be key for forcing a game four in Giessen?
We have to start better. Once we are in rhythm, then we are ok. When we were in rhythm, we won both second halves against BG Goettingen. We have to be more aggressive as them as a team to be successful in game three.
Your ex teammate Dennis Schroeder and the Atlanta Hawks upset Indiana in game one. Where do you see this series going?
This could be a wild series. The Pacers confidence has been down as of recent. If Indiana doesn´t watch out, Atlanta just might get by. I see this series going six or seven games.
What is your take on your favorite team Los Angeles Clippers against the Golden State Warriors?
The clippers have to take it one game at a time. They have to put this game behind them. I see the Clippers advancing in six games.
What was the last DVD movie that you saw?
30 for 30 Bad Boy Pistons documentary.
Thanks Steven for the chat.
BG Goettingen Grind Out A 74-65 Victory Over Giessen To Take 2-0 Series Lead
As Myles Hesson went down with a toe injury in game one of the semifinals series in Goettingen one may not have seen it on the faces of his teammates, but they surely were feeling a sense of despair and some helplessness as their best player from England was being brought to a hospital for examination. How important had he been in game one and three against Science City Jena sealing crucial free throws and hitting for 29 and 31 points in game three and game four? Without the help of the important Hesson play, teammates like Steven Bennett may already have been home going to a Los Angeles Clippers game or Rob Chubb visiting his cousin Adam Chubb and new born baby in Oldenburg. Hesson was missing for game two and at times, one doesn´t know if his focused and stern expression is of happiness or sadness as his unchanging demeanor resembles that of ex Giessen fan favorite Florian Hartenstein. With Hesson on the sidelines and only real strength as a cheerleader and added assistant coach, Denis Wucherer could of really used the sudden arrivals of ex Giessen scorers David Teague or Chuck Eidson as they had been the type of players that had come up big in their time in Giessen, but instead the ex German national player was without his best player and had to make massive adjustments. After the game one wouldn´t have known if Giessen had won or lost with the expression of Hesson or how both clubs were celebrating their fans, but the absence of the Englishman really was felt as BG Goettingen grinded out a big 74-65 win. Hesson missed game two because of a toe injury and reflected on being on the sidelines. “I wish that I could of helped more on offense and defense and my points were missing. If I would have been healthy, I could of helped, but I can´t get upset about my situation, because it is something I can´t control”, stressed ex ratiopharm Ulm forward Myles Hesson. Teammate Steven Bennett was missing his partner in basketball crime and could of used the Englishman for support under the boards. “It was really tough without Myles Hesson. BG Goettingen is so physical and we were so small. There were quite a few times where we could of used him on rebounds and finishes”, warned Steven Bennett. BG Goettingen had a tremendous start and never looked back as Giessen were trailing the whole game. BG Goettingen played solid team basketball on both ends of the court. “Giessen fought so hard and really made us work for 40 minutes. They made runs and never went away. We played hard as well and just stuck together to get this win”, added ex California(NCAA) forward Harper Kamp. The Giessen 46ers continued to get wrapped up in old habits as they started off slow which has been a dilemma in the playoffs, fought the whole game, but just couldn´t get over the hump in crunch time as BG Goettingen outmuscled them for the win. “It was the first five minutes that hurt us. They had a big lead and it is tough coming back against a team like BG Goettingen. They had great ball movement and execution and did a good job crashing the boards and getting second chance points. We have to play for 40 minutes and limit their runs, but we didn´t”, stressed ex Temple(NCAA) guard TJ DiLeo.
