The most important thing that is known about Fraport Skyliner point guard Dawan Robinson is that he is a top penetrator that can get to the hoop quicker than Philadelphia native Rocky Balboa could utter the famous words Adrian  and could probably make a good figure if he and ex Skyliner Dashaun Wood were to battle to see who can score more when dealing and wheeling to the hole. However after the thrilling and huge win against five time Beko BBL champion Brose Baskets Bamberg one also learned a different musical side to the friendly Philadelphia native as he joined Fraport Skyliner captain Marius Nolte in the Humba chant with the fans after the thrilling 77-64 win against Bamberg. Maybe it was no coincidence that during halftime rap legend Kurtis Blow who had the first certified gold record rap song with the Breaks in 1980 preformed to the already very excited fans who were Bamberg having problems against the 17^th placed team. Perhaps somebody slipped Robinson some information before doing the Humba about how to do it the Kurtis Blow way. His teammates weren´t only impressed with his play on the court, but also his musical ability. “I should ask him for rap lessons. He will hear it all week about his humba effort. He is a perfect rapper and is in his own category”, smiled ex LTi Giessen 46er Ryan Brooks. However others rather keep him busy on the court than in the recording studio. “Dawan still needs some practice. I rather see him on the court than rapping”, added Skyliner guard Konstantin Klein. Larry Wright studied the Robinson showcase and was certain that he needs no assistance. “He can´t help me out. I think I can rap a lot better”, laughed Larry Wright. The play of Robinson on the court was no laughing matter. It was another solid performance where he led his team in scoring with 19 points having 12 at halftime and then making a huge three pointer in crunch time to seal the win. “Robinson is our leader on the court. He is a good shooter though. He doesn´t need to rely on his shot, because he penetrates so well”, stressed Michigan native Larry Wright. Robinson was all smiles when describing his humba debut and gave all the credit to captain Nolte. “Marius told me what to say, but it was nice celebrating at the end”, said Dawan Robinson.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg have been as active on the transfer market this second half of  the season seemingly like never before like an NBA team is always shuffling players back and fourth between the D-league. Jeremiah Massey came not too long ago as well as American Alex Rentroe and Matt Walsh. IF one looks back to the 2006-2007 season, Bamberg brought in highly touted NBA player Casey Jacobson for the stretch run helping win their second Beko BBL title. If one wants to compare the coming of Walsh to the coming of Jacobson 6 seasons ago may be unfair since Walsh only played two NBA Games, but the  30 year old 197cm swing man from Pennsylvania brings a lot of basketball experience who is a skilled offensive player who has the ability to make the players around him better. Bamberg is his 13^th professional team after having played in countries like Greece, Spain, Slovenia, France, Belgium and the Ukraine. His two NBA games in 2005 might be a long lasting memory where his teammates were guys like Shaq, Dwayne Wade, Gary Payton and Alonso Mourning, but in his professional career he has shown that he can win as he won titles in Belgium and Slovenia. Walsh who has a knack for other talents besides basketball like tennis and in high school competed in the long and high jump and got life experience dating a playboy playmate is all business on the court as he is a very versatile swingman that at times comes over as a point guard because of his ball handling and passing qualities that has given him unusually high assist rates in the last two seasons in the Ukraine and Belgium. His last team was  Belgacom Spirou in Belgium where he was a teammate of ex Skyliner Mr ballerina Derrick Allen and he put up big numbers in Eurocup averaging  17.6ppg, 6.0rpg, 4.6apg. From a distance, he looks like he could be the twin of Walter Tigers Tuebingen guard Vaughn Duggins with his white sweat ban across his fore head and wavy hair or have doubled for Will Ferrell as Jackie Moon In the basketball comedy Semi Pro. The ex Florida Gator was making his debut in the Fraport arena and was as focused as his home town Holland, Pennsylvania has been for  the last 30 years to finally bring back commuter train service again which has severely hurt the commute of people to Philadelphia and Trenton, New Jersey as Walsh had seven points, nine rebounds and one assist in 24 minutes of duty and despite the loss has ample praise from Bamberg manager Wolfganf Heyder. “Coach Chris Fleming stressed basketball culture and with Walsh we have  a guy that has an amazing way to get rebounds and his ability to pass the ball. He is very versatile can play the positions 1-3 and we need to give guys like Gavel and Jacobson a rest. He is a very good rotation player”, added Wolfgang Heyder. Alone in the first half, there were three instances where one could see that he thinks like a point guard at times. After snatching a rebound he made an incredible quick outlet pass to Bostjan Nachbar, made a fast lob pass to Philipp Nuemann before the Frankfurt defense could react and last but not least set up Maik Zirbes for an ally-op tip in. Bamberg scout Brendan Rooney also sees other attributes that the former Florida Gator has. “His versatility and basketball IQ standout for me. He sees the floor well, rebounds well and reads the ball well”, commented Brendan Rooney. Other Skyliner players didn´t want to comment on the Jackie Moon comparison, but Rooney did. “I didn´t see the movie Semi Pro, but all I know is that Matt Walsh is a lot better player than Jackie Moon”, expressed Brendan Rooney.

After getting their three game winning streak snapped in Ulm last weekend and despite playing an incredible first half last weekend, the Fraport Skyliners went into the game with the Brose Baskets Bamberg as if it was a game five in the finals of the playoffs and gave a strong spirited effort for 40 minutes and even when the opponent rallied in the fourth quarter, didn´t loose their cool and slammed the door shut on the five time Beko BBL champion. “This was a total team effort. We needed everything from everyone. We got key rebounds at the end, eliminated any second chance shots and just executed on offense and defense when we needed it”, stressed Dawan Robinson. The Brose Baskets Bamberg were coming off a bitter overtime loss in Turkey 72 hours early and at times looked heavy on their feet and just couldn´t find a fluid offensive rhythm and hit important shots and be best friends with the loose balls something they didn´t have a handle on all afternoon long. “We found no rhythm at the start and let up too many offensive rebounds. We had good start into third quarter, but Frankfurt went on a run and that just broke our back and we couldn´t come back”, expressed ex LTi Giessen guard Anton Gavel. Giving the excuse that Bamberg was tired from the season and Euroleague travel wasn´t used as a sufficient reason. One can say that we were tired, but we can´t give that as an excuse for losing in Frankfurt. We lost because we didn´t defend well, not hit our shots well and just didn´t go aggressive to the hoop”, explained ex TBB Trier center Maik Zirbes.

Despite horrible weather outside, it didn´t hinder 4,840 fans from making the trip to the Fraport arena. The fans were rewarded right away as the 2004 Beko BBL champion raced out to a 5-0 lead as Ryan Brooks hit a fade away jumper and Quantez Robertson nailed a three pointer over Karsten Tadda. Zach Peacock then grabbed an offensive rebound and hit a pretty two foot jumper over Zirbes as Frankfurt led 7-1. The solid ball movement and aggressive work on the boards were paying dividends. After Gavel scored inside, Peacock got his second foul and had to sit down. However Frankfurt had enough other good weapons to compensate Peacock as Marius Nolte scored on a lay up and Robinson nailed a three pointer. Nolte then scored again running hard to the hoop from the free throw line like well fed race horse taking its rounds at the Belmont. The Fraport Skyliners led 16-7 as Chris Fleming took a time out. Bamberg came out of the time out focused and hit Frankfurt with a 5-0 run cutting the lead to 16-12. American Alex Renfroe from Savannah, Georgia who could pass as a shorter version of TBB Trier forward Brian Harper with his skinny legs dropped a three pointer and ex Phoenix Sun Sharod Ford hit a fade away jumper. Two years ago it was Dashaun Wood and last season it was Jermareo Davidson who would help the team when the opponent was getting closer and this season its usually Peacock or Robinson who can score in bunches as the latter made a fade away and lay up as Frankfurt led 20-12. Ex New Jersey Net Bostjan Nachbar then hit a three pointer in the face of Danilo Barthel, but at the end one quarter, the Fraport Skyliners led 22-15. “It is always tough for top teams, because every opponent is hungry to beat you. Bamberg seemed a bit lackadaisical and just very slow. They were outrebounded badly 18-3 and one could see that they missed blocking out assignments and missed many long rebounds. Despite having their hands on them, they couldn´t get the rebounds”, added ex Telemotive Munich guard Calvin Wooten. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 47% from the field and 33% from outside while Bamberg was shooting 31% from the field and 40% from outside. Frankfurt had the overwhelming 18-3 rebound advantage, but two turnovers while Bamberg had zero turnovers.

The scoring rampage continued in the second quarter as the Fraport Sklyiners continued to display calm offense with their shots sitting pretty. Devin Gibson nailed a three pointer and made free throws and then set up German center Johannes Voigtmann for an easy lay up on the pick and role as Frankfurt led 29-19. Robertson then tested his 27% three point shooting nailing from outside, but was quickly matched by a Gavel bomb as the Brose Baskets Bamberg trailed 32-22. Laquan Prowell then hit a mid distance jumper as Frankfurt led 34-22. However one can never be too secure when playing Bamberg as they rushed out on a 6-0 run to cut the Frankfurt lead to 34-28. Gavel hit free throws and then as did Walsh and the American then dropped a three pointer. Bamberg had stepped up their defensive pressure forcing Frankfurt to some quick shots as well as low percentage shots at the end of the shot clock. Frankfurt then had some fortune as they nearly lost a loose ball, but Dawan Robinson scooped up the ball and hit a three pointer for the 37-28 lead. Bamberg then tallied a mini 4-0 run as Zirbes made a tip in ally-op and Sharod Ford scored inside. Robinson came up big again as he hit a last second off balance jumper sending the Fraport Skyliners into half time with a solid 39-32 lead. “Bamberg played more aggressive and started to knock down shots better and just pushed the ball better. They also switched up on the zone frustrating the flow of the Frankfurt offense”, stressed Calvin Wooten. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 43% from the field and 42% from the three point line while the Brose Baskets Bamberg were shooting 35% from the field and 33% from the three point line. Frankfurt had the massive 25-14 rebound edge. Frankfurt had five turnovers and Bamberg had four turnovers.

It took Bamberg very long to get back on the floor as they had a lot of matters to discuss with head coach Chris Fleming, but when they got back on the floor, they were all business. In the first Fraport Skyliner loss in Bamberg, it was Bostjan Nachbar that nailed three three pointers in the first quarter and in Frankfurt it was the start of the third quarter until the Slovenian motor got heated. Bamberg sprung out on a 8-0 run to take their first lead of the game 40-39. Nachtbar and Gavel hit consecutive three pointers and then the 309 game ex NBA player drove to the hoop and made a tough left handed lay up in traffic. “Bamberg came out with a lot more energy than we did and were getting too many open shots”, expressed Fraport Skyliner guard Larry Wright. However as quick as that offensive explosion came, it also lulled quicker than how Dawan Robinson can get from the free throw line to the hole as the Fraport Skyliners dominated the rest of the third quarter ending it with a 17-5 run. Frankfurt got production from everyone. Robinson scored inside, Peacock hit over Zirbes, Barthel scored inside and then it was Peacock again who made his money shot the mid distance shot as Frankfurt led 48-42. The Frankfurt offense was really rocking on all cylinders as Ryan Brooks connected from outside. Danilo Barthel then got a back door pass from Brooks for a crushing dunk.Jeremiah Massey then got a dunk, but was hit with a technical foul for too heavy celebrating. Peacock ended the third quarter with a free throw as the Fraport Skyliners led 57-44. “Frankfurt played very aggressive defense after that Bamberg run and got into the passing lanes”, added Larry Wright. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 40% from the parking lot while the Brose baskets Bamberg were shooting 33% from the field and 31% from the parking lot. Frankfurt still had the huge 45-36 rebound edge and only eight turnovers while Bamberg had 12 turnovers.

In the first five minutes, the Fraport Skyliners did a great jon never letting the Brose Baskets Bamberg get closer than nine points as they displayed consistent offense and just keeping any Bamberg comeback attempt at bay. Sharod Ford tested his 45% three point shooting percentage hitting from downtown, but Danilo Barthel returned the favor with a bank shot form the parking lot as Frankfurt led 60-47. The heart and soul of Bamberg Anton Gavel answered with a three pointer cutting the Frankfurt lead back to 60-50. Brooks then scored inside and Gavel hit from the free throw line as Bamberg trailed 62-52. Frankfurt was defending ferociously in the post and just annoying Bamberg in the set play. Robertson stole the ball from Walsh at center court scoring easily as Frankfurt led 64-52. With crunch time slowly approaching, Bamberg went on one last run scoring eight unanswered points to cut the Frankfurt lead to 64-60. Ex Clemson tiger Sharod Ford who led the Serie A in rebounds for three straight years hit a three pointer and then Gavel showed some quickness getting to the hole and scoring on a fingertip role as the Fraport arena was as quiet a turkey barn on Thanksgiving. Walsh and Renfroe then hit free throws. Frankfurt had been forced to bad shots and all of a sudden were up by only four points. However when you need a savior none better to call then Dawan Robinson who nailed a three pointer. Peacock then followed with free throws as Frankfurt led 69-60. “My shot put game away. I was so wide open. I was just waiting to get the ball. I couldn´t wait to shoot the ball”, smiled Dawan Robinson. With time running out, Bamberg only really had Anton Gavel who was trying to save the ship as he nonstop penetrated for points and to the free throw line. After Gavel cut the Frankfurt lead to 70-63, the Fraport Skyliners got closer to victory with free throws. Brooks put an explanation point on the win with a steal at mid court and dunk as the Fraport Skyliners beat Bamberg for the second straight year at home. “We can´t let teams get a lead like that on us. It just makes it a lot more difficult to get over the hump. Frankfurt played a very good game, but us losing had more to do with us than their aggressive defense”, stressed Matt Walsh. “We just buckled down on defense in the fourth quarter. We got stops limiting them to one shot and just executed on offense”, added Ryan Brooks.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Dawan Robinson with 19 points. Ryan Brooks contributed 13 points and eight rebounds. Zach peacock produced 12 points and 10 rebounds and Quantez Robertson had 10 points, six rebounds and four assists. The Brose Baskets Bamberg were led by Anton Gavel with 22 points. Bostjan Nachbar added 10 points. It was one of the seldom games where the Fraport Skyliners hit 40% from the field and from outside while Bamberg couldn´t find their touch shooting 33% from the field and 31% from outside. Gavel had the reason for their poor shooting. “We shot only 33% taking bad shots. We made them look good on defense”, stressed Anton Gavel. Frankfurt produced perhaps their best rebounding game of the season outrebounding Bamberg 45-36. “Our focus has always been rebounding. We know if we get the rebound then we can go out and run and just our athleticism. The key is always that first rebound to be successful”, added Ryan Brooks. “Bamberg was very physical on the glass, but we did a good job hitting glass and boxing out. I give a lot of credit to Marius Nolte. He played excellent”, stressed Dawan Robinson. The biggest strength of the day was keeping Bamberg to 64 points who usually average 79 points per game. “We stuck to our defensive principles. We knew that Bamberg would have  a lot of energy after the loss in Hagen, but we had double as much energy keeping our hands on the ball and setting good traps. Peacock and Barthel did a great job defending the penetration and helping”, added Ryan Brooks. The Fraport Skyliners look for their second win in a row Friday against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.

Max Merz is a 19 year old 183cm guard that was born in Regensburg. He started his basketball career at MTV Kronberg. He has been playing for the Fraport Skyliners juniors since 2011. Last season in the PRO B, he played  10 games: 6.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 31.0%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 53.8%, also had a license for Eintracht Frankfurt (2.Regionalliga) and plays NBBL where he led the team into the playoffs and leads the team in scoring. He has been a member of the U-16 and U-17 German national teams. He took part at the European Championships U16 in Bar (Montenegro) -10: 8 games: 2.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball recently.

The Fraport Skyliners  are on a good way to reach the playoffs. How realistic do you see the chances?

I see it as very realistic. If we keep playing the way we have in last weeks, then we could.

How difficult is it to play sometimes with Konstantin Klein, Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann and sometimes not?

There aren´t really any problems. When they are with us, they help us very much. With them on the court, we are one of the best teams in the PRO B. When we don´t have them, then we really see the differences. When  we don´t have them, we just try to make the best of it. We are happy when they are playing and just make the best of the situation when they aren´t with us.

How does your role change when they aren´t there?

When they are there, I am the 6-7 man off the bench and when they aren´t there, I am with Falko on the guard position. I have more responsibility and can score more.

How happy are you with your development in the PRO B?

I am happy with it and it is moving along good.

On what things do you still need to work on on your game?

I can work on many things like being more calm on the court on offense, reading the game better, shooting off the dribble and on defense.

Konstantin Klein once said he thinks that someday you could be a solid Beko BBL player. Is that your dream?

I think it is the dream of any player. But I am not thinking about that now, just trying to establish myself in the PRO B. If I make it one day then I would be very happy.

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

My defense gets overlooked. One doesn´t read about it in the stats.

I like your eye for your teammates. Who is your favorite passer in NBA?

Rajon Rondo is the best passer.

What is the most important thing that you have learned from Eric Detlev?

I worked a lot with him last summer. He helped me a lot on defense especially how to defend well against bigger players as well as reading the play on the pick and role.

What is the most important thing that Konstantin Klein has given you?

Just to practice, practice practice and believe in your goal.

Who was the best player that you played against in the NBBL 2013 Allstar game?

The MVP Kenneth Ogbe. He was very versatile that bring the ball or score. David Taylor also was tough.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

I liked Ben Wallace because of his good defense and Kobe Bryant.

You played a season in the states at Rabun Gap high school. That sounds like a mix of temple and designer store. Did you ever ask where the name came from?

It is the name of the small town in Georgia in the hills named after by Indians.

What did you learn in the states that amazed you?

I found that the people are very friendly there different than in Germany. They are always trying to help you.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row without missing?

46.

What was your most crazy shot you ever made in a game?

I made a hook shot over two players from the three point line.

Who wins a one on one you or Konstantin Klein.

He still wins, but I would win maybe twice in 10 tries.

What do you like most about your teammate NikolaJ Vukovic?

I know him since many years. He is a very good friend of mine. I can´t even list all the good things about him.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Jungle.

Thanks Max for the chat.

Miro Todic is a 28 year old 205cm forward from Serbia that just joined  Khimik-OPZ Yuzny (Ukraine-Superleague) after playing for  LeGamberi Foods Forli (Italy-Lega2) where he averaged 15,8ppg and 9,9rpg. He started his basketball career at Radnik Bijeljina. In 2003-2004 he played for  Krka Novo Mesto (Slovenia-1A), then joined Union Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia). H ethen played three seasons for the Deutsche Bank Sklyiners from 2004-2007 reaching the Beko BBL final in 2005. He then played for  AO Kolossos Rodou (Greece-A1) from 2007-2009. In 2009-2010 he played for  Gymnastikos Olympia Larissas (Greece-A1): 12 games: 4.9ppg, 2.5rpg; in Feb.’10 moved to Sundsvall Dragons (Sweden-Basketligan, starting five): 8 games: 15.1ppg, 8.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 45.7%, FT: 61.3%. In 2010-2011, he played for Achilleas Kaimakliou (Cyprus-Division A): 2 games: 0pts, 3.0rpg, in Nov.’10 moved to Ilysiakos Athens (Greece-A1): 24 games: 6.4ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 21.6%, FT: 54.9%. Last season he played for  Ilysiakos Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): 11 games: 10.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 55.9%; left in Jan.’12, later that month moved to Politekhnika-Halychyna (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five): 17 games: 13.2ppg, 7.4rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 67.6%. He spoke to German Hoops before the Eurochallenge game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Tonight a big Eurochallenge game in Oldenburg. How excited are to be in Germany again?

I am very excited. I miss Germany very much. I love Germany. This is a big game tonight and I hope that we can do well.

How do you see your chances against Oldenburg?

They are a real good team with very good Americans and Germans. They are very strong at all positions. I remember playing against Adam Chubb and Ronald Burrell. They also have very good guards with Julius Jenkins and Rickey Paulding and the kid Chris Kramer is a very good player. Each player always gives the maximum and we will have to be ready.

What will be the first thing that you will ask Dominik Bahiense De Mello when you see him on the court tonight?

I already spoke to him at morning shoot around. The first thing we did was smile at each other. It was so nice seeing him again. We talked about our days in Frankfurt. We were so young then. My time in Frankfurt was one of my best years. It was so much fun playing with the Skyliners.

What do you remember from Malick Badiane kicking the chair in Oldenburg in 2005?

I remember that a little, but don´t really remember what happened. It didn´t surprise me that he did that. When things aren´t going well, then players tend to get emotional. These kind of outbursts can always happen in sport. Malick was a very good guy.

How will you beat the unbeaten EWE Baskets Oldenburg in the Eurochallenge tonight?

We have to stop their Americans and transition game. They have good shooters and inside presence. We will have to give a full team effort to win.

What is your role in the team?

They brought me in, because they want to secure the third position in the league and go as far as possible in Eurochallenge. They want to have a deeper rotation than before.

Why did you leave Italy a week ago?

I had problems with getting the payments, so I searched the market and got offers in Italy division one and from Yunzy and they gave me an offer I couldn´t pass up.

How has your game developed since Frankfurt?

I was a kid in Frankfurt in the years 18-21. I got a lot of experience playing many years in Greece. I got stronger physically as a player and has helped my game on offense and defense.

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

I am a versatile player. The coach can use me in so many different situations like spreading the defense or letting me work in the post. It always depends how they guard me how I will be used.

How did Nino Garris get you to laugh?

Just seeing his face and reaction always got me to laugh. It was so much going to practice when I was a Skyliner.

Have you ever seen a better shooter than Jimmy Mckinney?

Jimmy was a rookie when I played with him and has developed since then. But I have seen many great shooters in Greece and Italy over the years.

How lucky have you been to have had Mike Kalavros as coach so many years?

It has been very important for my career having him. He has taught me so much. He really has helped change my game over the years.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Vitaly Kovalenko?

Well I have only been here one week so we haven´t played yet.

What do you miss most from Germany?

I miss all the food, people and life. Germany is so organized and it is the best country that I have lived in.

How often did Murat Didin eat Kebap each day?

I don´t know since I didn´t see him eat it, but maybe a lot. I just have good memories of coach. He was a good coach. Frankfurt was one of the best times for me.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

American Gangstar. I have seen it 5 times.

Thanks Miro for the chat.

Jason Boucher is a 32 year old 180cm guard from Menominee, Michigan that is playing his seventh professional basketball season in Germany and second with the Desden Titans in the Pro B. He started his basketball career in 1998 for  Grand Valley State (NCAA2) where he played until 2002. He played a total of 106 NCAA 2 games and as a senior played  28 games: 8.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.3apg, 2.4spg, FG: 40.4%, 3Pts: 39.8%, FT: 81.9%. He came to Germany in 2004-2005 and played for  TB Weiden (Germany-Regionalliga). From 2005-2007, he played in the minor leagues in the States for Grand Rapids Flight (IBL), Michigan Mayhem (CBA), Battle Creek Knights (IBL) and  Albany Patroons (CBA). In 2007-2008, he returned back to Germany to play for the Coocoon Baskets Weiden. From 2008-2010, he played for Heimerer Schulen Basket Landsberg (Germany-Regionalliga) where he tore up the league averaging 28,0ppg in those two seasons. In 2010-2011, he played for the  BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProB) playing 17 games averaging 15.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 60.7%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 84.5%. He spoke to German Hoops after the

How is the team approaching the playdowns?

We are approaching every game in the playdowns as its win or go home (down). We still practicing and working hard everyday in practice. Its not what we had hoped for this season as we wanted to be in the playoffs but we are gonna do our best to win these playdown games and stay in the Pro b.

You had a solid season with Gotha two seasons ago and this season as well. Are you hoping for Pro A offers this summer at age 32?

Yeah that would be nice as every competitive player wants to move up leagues. I know I’m not getting any younger, but I feel good and know I can play at that the Pro A level. If that opportunity comes then great if not I will play with what ever team wants me!

Are you a bit disappointed that after many good seasons that you haven´t got the call to the Pro A?

Dissapointed a little bit yeah, but I know its a business and teams are a little hesitant to take an older player over a young talent out of college. But my resume I think speaks volumes and would love to get the chance if the opportunity comes!

You tore up the German Regionaliga from 2007-2010. How difficult was it making that next step to the Pro B?

For me I approach ever season the same and play the game with passion. It wasnt difficult at all, I have prepared myself for any league. I have played in top leagues in the states(besides the NBA) and I can adapt my game to where ever im playing.

Guys like Josh Young and Jason Boone made the jump from Pro B and Regionaliga. Has to do more with talent, luck or connections?

Well I mean of course you have to be talented and know the game of basketball to play in higher leagues but with that being said I think it has a lot to do with connections and being in the right place at the right time.

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

I am a very smart basketball player and know the game inside and out. Like I said before I can adapt to any situation my team needs me too. If they need me to score I can score, if they want me to control the game and be a playmaker I can do that also. I have always been told I am too small to make it or to play at the levels I have played at. My hard work and determination has shown differently

How easy has it been working with coach Thomas Krzywinski who is near the same age as you?

Coach and I have had a pretty good relationship since I have been here in Dresden. He knows the game pretty well and puts in countless amount of hours to get us ready and prepared. He is considered a young coach at his age but to me it doesnt matter the age of the coach, its his team and we all have to respect that.

You tore up the Regionaliga with Landsberg. What are your fondest memories with that team?

My years in Landsberg were great, a lot of great memories there too many to mention them all. Our team was really close on and off the court and just the friendships and bonds I made with those guys is something I will never forget!

Who was the best player that you played against in the NCAA 2 with Grand valley that might be in the NBA now?

The best player I played against in college? hmm its been a while 10-12yrs ago haha. I really cant pick one out at the moment but I have played against a lot of NBA guys in other leagues.

Why do so many good players come from Michigan?

That’s  a good question, there are a lot of good players from everywhere in the states. I am not sure why Michigan produces a lot of good players, maybe its because there is not a lot of things to do in Michigan so all we do is play sports, haha

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Bjoern Blossey?

I actually have never played Bjorn one on one, but I think he and I both know the answer to that  SYF Bjorn

Andrew Jones has had a solid season. Isn´t he on eof those players that could also reach the Pro A?

Drew has had a really solid season for us. He is one of those players in my mind that should get a chance to show what he can do in a higher league. Him and I have had to switch our games up a little bit this season for the better of the team and I think we did a good job of working together this season. Not only is he a good player, but he is an even better teammate and person!

What do you like most about Dresden? It is seen as a big city in Germany, but seldom have I seen such a small city center.

To me Dresden is a huge city 500,000 people I think and I come from a town of 10,000 haha. I really like people here and there is a lot to do and see here. Our fans are great as well, they stick by us no matter how the season is going and those are true fans!

Lebron or Kobe?

LEBRON JAMES, best player on the planet hands down in my opinion.

Who would win a slam dunk contest Lebron or Blake Griffin?

No props or anything I would have to say Lebron, I know all u guys been seeing those dunks in warm up lately from him, haha

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Chris Herron story, Espn 30 for 30, great story and a must watch.

Thanks Jason for the chat.

In the last game of the regular season of the PRO B south, the Dresden Titans visited the Fraport Skyliners as it was a more or less a meaningless game for both as the Saxony team already had a birth in the play downs while the Frankfurt club had already secured a date in the playoffs and the Titans were able to be only the second team in the league together with Weissenhorn to sweep the season series with a solid 88-80 victory. After a very tight first half, the Dresden Titans gave the green light to Andrew Jones who accepted and after netting eight points in the first halft totally crushed the Fraport Skyliners like ripe Grape fruit pouring in 30 points in the second half to stifle the Fraport Skyliners as they had absolutely no cure of how to stop the 29 American that was scoring from everywhere as if he had been put in a microwave. “We finally played some defense which hasn´t always been the case this season. The game was back and fourth in the first half and we had way too many turnovers. In the second half it was the Andrew Jones show who carried us and we did a good job getting him shots”, stressed Dresden Titans captain Jason Boucher. The Fraport Skyliners were without out their three German license players Konstantin Klein, Danilo Barthel and Johannes Voigtmann and Larry Wright who is with the Beko BBL team Skyliners until the end of the season, but despite being very undermanned, the club gave a very spirited effort never giving up. “I thought that despite missing many players, we played very well for the guys we had. I saw some good things on offense, but we lost the game on defense. We had problems with our one on one and help defense. I think that if we could of made more stops on defesne at the end, then the game could of gone down to the wire”, expressed American Taylor Brown.

Ex ratiopharm Ulm forward Alexander Heide who palyed four Beko BBL games in the 2007-2008 season hit a fade away jumper, but Nikolai Vukovic got going eraly testing his 48% three point shooting with a bomb and 3-2 frankfurt lead. Dresden Titans center Jared Bensen also got into groove fast making a turn around jumper and testing his 43% shooting form the parking lot as Frankfurt trailed 7-3. After a Falko Thelig free throw, Bensen took advantage of little help defense scoring inside as Dresden led 9-4. However the Fraport Skyliners juniors were on their game early as Vukovic hit his second three pointer of the game and Jan Novak iced two free throws dead locking the game at 9-9. However Dresden then jumped out on a lightening 8-0 run to lead 17-10 as young 19 year old German Daniel Pollrich and American Andrew Jones nailed three pointers and Patrick Ruelke scored inside. After a Tim Oldenburg and Falko Thelig free throws, Brown scored again inside cutting the Dresden lead to 17-15. Dresden closed out the first quarter with a mini 4-0 run as they continued to take advantage of the Frankfurt weak inside defense and Thomas Lienhard and Robert Zobel scored. Dresden led 21-15 after one quarter. “Both teams were still getting a feel for each other and we did a better job adapting to them than they did to us”, stressed Dresden guard Jason Boucher. Dresden was shooting very hot 75% from the two point range and 60% from outside while Frankfurt was shooting poorly at 13% from the two point range and 29% from outside. Dresden had the 11-5 rebound edge, but seven turnovers while Frankfurt had two turnovers only.

The game remained tight in the second quarter as no team led by more than six points. Taylor Brown got Frankfurt on the board first with a fade away jumper, but Jones responded with an easy lay in after he glided into the zone like a mal nourished golden bear from Miles(NCAA). German Benedikt Nikolay then dropped a much needed three pointer to cut the Dresden lead to 23-20. Boucher and Max Merz then traded three pointers and Brown scored again inside as Dresden led only 26-25. After a Ruelke jumper, it was Brown that hit a jumper after getting a fancy behind the back pass from Max Merz as Frankfurt trailed 28-27. After Boucher nailed a three pointer, the FRaport Skyliners stormed back as Max Merz found the hole and penetrated with his usual quickness finishing with a finger tip roll and Vukovic tied the game with another three point bomb 33-33. Boucher then made a steam and scored while Novak scored and Brown made a free throw and Frankfurt led 36-35. Dresden then escaped out on a 5-0 run as Ruelke and Jones scored, but Brown closed out the scoring in the second quarter as the Dresden Titans led 40-38. “We had a hard time on the boards as they rebounded better. Brown was very aggressive and they were always crashing the boards”, added Jason Boucher. Frankfurt was shooting 50% from the two point range and 31% from the three point line, while Dresden was shooting 63% from the two point range 63% and 38% from the three point line. Frankfurt rebounded a lot better as it was 16-16 on the boards and Dresden had eight turnovers and Frankfurt only four turnovers.

The third quarter stayed tight until the end where the Dresden Titans could break away. Jones started the third quarter with scoring a pull up jumper, but Brown also was on his game as he scored being set up nicely by German Falko Thelig as Frankfurt trailed 43-41. After Heide made free throws, it was Brown again who this time scored shortly before the shot clock sounded as Dresden still led 45-43. The scoring makeup of the third quarter seemed more like a Jones-Brown show as both guys were keeping their respective teams close. After Jones made a steal and went coast to coast scoring where he really looked like a man weaving in and out of kids, it was Brown again keeping his part making a dunk as Dresden led 48-46, but then it was Jones again hitting a jumper as nobody could keep him in check. Next it wasn´t Brown again, but  ales likely player in German Lennant Okeke who is an NBBL player for Eintracht Frankfurt was left open in the corner and drooped a beautiful three pointer in best Jimmy Mckinney manner as Dresden led 50-49, but the next time down it was Jones again nailing a three pointer as Frankfurt trailed 53-49. After an Oldenburg lay in and Brown free throw where Frankfurt trailed 53-52, the game turned as Andrew Jones where there was once a baseball player under the same name that could turn games around with his hot hitting, the basketball player took Dresden on a back crushing 9-1 run scoring all points scoring a three pointer and three lay ins as Frankfurt trailed62-53. Jason Boucher closed out the third quarter with a bitter three pointer at the buzzer as the Dresden Titans led 67-55. “We gave Andrew Jones the green light and he was hot. Sometimes its him and sometimes its me. If he is feeling it then I run the point and sometimes when I am feeling it he runs the point. We did a good job getting him the ball”, added Jason Boucher. The Dresden Titans were shooting 63% from the two point range and 44% from the parking lot while the Fraport Skyliners were shooting 50% from the two point range and 36% from the parking lot. Frankfurt was leading the rebound duel 23-21 and both teams coughed up the ball  12 times.

The Fraport Skyliners open up the fourth quarter with a quick 5-0 run to cut the Dresden lead to 67-60 as Oldenburg made a lay in and Merz connected on a three pointer. “Merz played very aggressive and played very hard. When he plays hard, he gives his team a chance. He has a bright future”, warned Jason Boucher. The Fraport Skyliners continued to fight, but they just couldn´t get over the hump to cut the Dresden lead under six points. After an Oldenburg layup, it was Jones again that dropped a three pointer for the 72-63 Dresden lead. Oldenburg then cut the Dresden lead to 71-66 with a massive dunk, but Boucher scored inside and Novak hit a jumper as Frankfurt trailed 74-68. Jared Bensen who had been quiet for some time scored inside and Brown answered again inside as Frankfurt trailed 76-70. Jones and Heide then hit free throws something Frankfurt had difficulty doing consistently as Dresden led 81-73. Frankfurt made one last gasp as Novak hit a three pointer cutting the Dresden lead to 83-76. However with time running out, Jones made the last six points for Dresden from the free throw line helping seal the win. “I have to give Frankfurt credit, because they played hard for 40 minutes. It was a weird feeling tonight, because it seems like this season there were too many games where we forgot how to win. We played too much this season not too lose instead of playing to win. Tonight we did a better job playing to win”, stressed Jason Boucher.

The Dresden Titans were led by Andrew Jones with 38 points. Jason Boucher produced 15 points and five assists. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Taylor Brown with 28 points, 12 rebounds and three assists. Tim Oldenburg added 11 points and Nikola Vukovic contributed 10 points.  Max Merz hahd nine points and six assists, Jan Novak nine points and Falko Thelig eight points and nine assists.  Dresden shot 53% from the field and 37% from outside while the Fraport Skyliners shot 46% from the field and 35% from outside. Frankfurt won the rebound duel 31-30 and 18 turnovers while Dresden had 19 turnovers. It was Jones that decided the game in the second half for the Dresden Titans. “I was in the zone in the second half. I had been frustrated with my turnovers early, so I got more aggressive attacking the basket”, added Andrew Jones. “Jones got going and we let him get a groove. It seemed like there was no shot that he couldn´t make. He was very good at breaking down our one on one defense. He was simply deadly tonight”, added Taylor Brown. Brown seemed in the shadow of Jones, but had a strong game and had to produce more. “I have to protect the paint more when the Germans aren´t playing. I keep the fort down and get much needed points. All I have to do is get open, because I know that my teammates will find me”, warned Taylor Brown.

Ilian Evtimov is a 29 year old 201 cm forward playing his third season in France for Chalon. He has the French-Bulgarian citzenships and played at North Carolina State from 2001-2006. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 10.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FG: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT. After a short stint with Estudiantes Madrid in 2006, he played at VidiVici Bologna in the 2006-2007 season. He played FIBA EuroCup playing 15 games averaging 6.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 2FGP: 65.4%, 3FGP: 47.1%, FT: 72.2%; and playing15 games in the Italian league averaging 3.1ppg, 2.1rpg. In 2007-2008, he moved to The Deutsche Bank Skyliners playing 10 ULEB Cup games averaging 14.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 85%; and in the German League playing 44 games averaging 13.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 86.2%. In 2008-2009, he continued playing in Frankfurt playing 10 EuroChallenge:  games averaging 8.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.0%; and in the German League playing 34 games averaging 8.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 74.6%. In 2009-2010, he played for BC Levski Sophia (Bulgaria-NBL): 1 game: 6pts, 5reb, 2ast, 3steals; Balkan League: 1 game: 3pts, 1reb, 1ast, 2steals; in Oct.’09 moved to Proteas EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-Division EuroChallenge: 13 games: 10.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 45.6%, FT: 83.3%: FT-2(90.9%). In 2010-2011, he played for Chalon playing  33 games: 11.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 84.2%. Last season for Chalon he played French League: 35 games: 9.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.4%, 3PT: 42.0%, FT-1(94.7%); EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 9.0ppg, 1.5rpg; EuroChallenge: 16 games: 10.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 46.0%, FT-1(95.2% He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

You missed a month on account of an injury. How tough was this period for you?

It was difficult because we all came back after Christmas with a lot of energy for a fresh start in 2013, but then I got injured after a few days in practice. It was very frustrating for me, but these things happen.

When you look back at your career, you have had luck not having injury problems.

Yes that is correct. I missed a season at North Carolina State, but other than that I have been fortunate. In my 2.5 years at Chalon before this injury, I missed only one game.

What is always the most difficult thing for  a player during an injury?

Watching your team on the court and seeing things happen on the court and physically not being able to help them.

Was Chalon able to compensate your loss during your injury?

I think that they did a good job. We lost to Gravelines by 30 points and lost in the cup to a PRO B team, but since then have won three games in a row.

After winning the double last season, Chalon is strong again and are near the top of the standings. What makes them so strong this season?

I think that we have experience and have many returning players and that we have a good chemistry. We like playing on the court together. It is still a building process.

Talk a little about the players that Chalon have added and made you stronger.

We have Sheldon Williams who played at Duke and was in the NBA. I have known him for many years. He is a great guy on and off the court. We also added marcus DEnmon who is very athletic and Kevin Houston who is a point guard with PRO A experience. I played against him two seasons ago. All three guys are great and there is no negativity at all.

How important and difficult was it to keep Blake Schilb?

It was difficult keeping him. He was the PRO A MVP last season and was in demand before and during the season. His contract ends after this season and I am sure there will be even more demand for him.

How much fun is it playing with Sheldon Williams?

It is always fun with him. Recently his old school Duke beat mine North Carolina State and he came into the locker room with a Duke shirt and teased me. I then reminded him that we beat them a month ago. We like teasing each other about basketball and the good old days.

How did you play against Duke and Sheldon Williams with North Carolina State back in the day?

I remember beating them at home when they were ranked number one in the nation. All our fans ran on the court. It was a very special moment in my career. We lost too them in a ACC semi final where we were leading for most of the game. He and JJ Redick had great games. I believe we won only once in six games.

What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen Sheldon Williams do on the court?

He is an incredible player. His moves are most amazing. He just likes to go through the defense and somehow gets off a shot in traffic and it goes in. Along the way everyone else falls down, because he is so strong.

How much potential does a Marcus Denmon have?

He was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs. He is a two guard and we are trying to help him become a one. He is an unbelievable shooter and is still young and very gifted. He was injured for three months which has hurt.

Did it surprise you that a guy of Denmon´s skill played at Jimmy Mckinneys school Missouri?

No it doesn´t. I asked Him about Jimmy, but he never played with him, but had heard of him as he came the year Jimmy went pro.

You are playing another solid season. Has anything changed with your role?

Nothing has really changed. My role is still to shoot three pointers, be smart and make room for Williams and Schilb.

You are shooting over 40% from downtown for the second consecutive season. What is your secret to the Evti swish being so consistent?

Just much practice and having confidence. I am more confident than ever with my shot.

What has improved most with your game since you have come to Chalon?

I think that I have become a better shooter. I read the defense better which lets me get my shot off better. I alos am a better defender.

You played nine games in the Euroleague. What was your fondest memory of the Euroleague?

My nicest memory was beating Siena at home in overtime. We lost many close games and were so close to qualifying. The margin of error is very small in the Euroleague.

Who was the toughest guy you played against in the Euroleague?

Deon Thompson from Alba Berlin. It was hard adjusting our defense to his game. I know him since many years since we have played against each other each summer for the last 5-7 years. It was really hard to stop him.

How surprised are you that your friend Greg Jenkins is playing in the third league in France?

Wow I was not aware of that. I have not spoken to him since last season. Players sometimes go through hard times. Sometimes it is hard to get a job as there are many players and less jobs. Some players have less luck and before they know it end up in lower leagues.

Are you still making drawings?

Not as much as before, but every now and then I draw with my son.

With what ex Skyliners do you have the most contact to?

Derrick Allen and Koko Archibong.

Video´s of little boys making incredible shots have been popping up. When will your son be in a basketball video?

I saw that video of that two year old boy making incredible shots. My son saw that video and was jumping up and down and grabbed the ball. My son not as talented yet, but he is younger and practicing.

Who will win Oscar as best film?

I have no idea. I have been watching a great show Revenge.

When will you return to Frankfurt?

I don´t know, but maybe in the summer. I want to show my wife where I lived for two years.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Revenge.

Thanks Evti for the chat.