Devonte McCall (198-F-1998, college: Post) is a 26 year old 198 cm forward that was born in Amherst Mass and is playing his second professional season and second in Germany and first with Phoenix Hagen (Germany-ProA). He played his rookie season with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (Germany-ProA) averaging 12.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 68.5%. He began his basketball career at Westminster and then played a season at Franklin Pierce University (NCAA2) averaging 5.0ppg, 3.5rpg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 41.2%. He then moved to Post University (NCAA2) averaging 12.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 50.0% and in his last season averaged 19.3ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 66.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Devonte for talking to germamnhoops.com. You have played 40 games this season with 7 playoff games and 11 more than last season. How is your body holding up?

All are a bit sore. No one is 100%. As a professional we all know it´s a long season. I worked hard during the summer to be ready for the whole season. I run every day and take good care of my body so I can sustain a high level during the season.

Phoenix Hagen is 1-1 in the semi-finals and have won many on the road and lost many at home. How do you explain that?

It´s crazy. We had something like only 2 home loses during the regular season. It has been a real adjustment. We are head strong and are always confident that we will win at home. We always go into our game with the attitude to give the home fans a win.

The 5 game series against Kirchheim was wild. Many had Kirchheim favored. How vital was this tough 5 series win for the mentality of the team?

It was big. They are a tough team with great individual players. We have the attitude that we always try to improve after every game. We go into each game with the same mentality no matter if it´s 2-1, 0-0 or 1-0.

What did you personally learn from that series?

This was my first playoffs. It showed me the value of every possession. Every game is a dog fight. I´m never comfortable. It always feels the same. The series felt like 1 long game.

Phoenix Hagen did win game 5 by 24 points, but how key was it keeping Michael Flowers to 8 points in game 5?

It was huge for us. He is a hell of a player, but at the same time, I feel like we have the best guard defenders in the league. Even if we didn´t show it in all games, we know other team´s tendencies and nobody wants to get scored on. We know we can´t slip up or a Miller or Flowers are capable of scoring 25 points.

What is the most challenging thing in slowing Flowers down?

We just try to make it as difficult as possible to score and to facilitate. We just tried to wear him down as best as possible and throw as much bodies as possible at him.

The series with PS Karlsruhe is tied at 1-1. PS Karlsruhe is a very annoying team. Is their fight and grit their biggest strength?

That is one of their biggest strengths. They have a lot of dog in them and like to play fast and free. I like their pace. They have talented and athletic players that fit the system well.

What has been your impression of Bakary Dibba? He is one of many overseas that was off the radar and blooming now.

He has a lot of talent and you can see his talent. He moves really well and it is a lot of fun to play against him.

So far both teams have won on the road. What will be key in getting that home win?

We need to have a strong first quarter. The games that we lost, we struggled coming out of the gate. We need to find a rhythm and come out of the gate with a bang and give the fans something to cheer about.

Phoenix Hagen got some late additions with Jamel Mcallister and Vincent Neugebauer. What have you appreciated most about their games?

They work hard each practice and always stay late taking shots after practice. Vincent wants to learn and asks a lot of questions. He has played great in the minutes that he has gotten. That has given him extra confidence. Jamel has been with us longer and needed no adjustment time. He became a part of the family quickly and fit in well.

Brock Mckenzie has been out for more than a month? How do you feel has the team compensated the loss best?

We miss him a lot and he was such an important piece of the team. There was a big load to pick up, but many stepped up in his absence. I felt we found a rhythm during his absence.

You have had sort of an up and down season in terms of scoring, how do you rate your overall play this season?

I feel like I improved a lot this season. My numbers may have been down to last season, but I think that I improved my facilitating, defense and understanding of the game. I´m worlds above with my defense as compared to last season. My offense has become simple. I give a lot of credit to the coaching staff.

Your scoring really picked up in the Kirchheim series. Was it just aggressiveness or was there more to it?

I was more aggressive and felt like I had to in the absence of Brock. There were some games where I just needed to score. I was able to score in crucial times as well. I also thank the coaching staff in having trust in my game.

Your shooting 3/16 in the PS Karlsruhe series. How confident are you that you will break out in game 3?

It´s a numbers game. It´s just a matter of time. I´m always confident in my abilities. I´m never too high or too low. I just try to make every shot I take. There is nothing like playing at home.

Who will win Frankfurt-Trier?

It will go 5 games and I like Frankfurt to win it all.

Who will win the Dallas-Minnesota and Boston Indiana series and who will win it all?

I have the Celtics in 4 or 5 games and Minnesota in 7 games. I have Minnesota winning it all in 7. They remind me of those Thunder teams with Westbrook and Durant.

Thanks Devonte for the chat.

The 2023-2024 season for the Dragons Rhondorf has been one to remember and the do or die games just don´t end. After thrilling series against Rostock and Wolmirstedt where Rhondorf had to go to the distance, they have to do it one more time against BG Berlin 2000 for their ticket to the Pro B final. After a disappointing 71-62 loss in game 1 in their living room, they were faced with a do or die game in Berlin, but withstood the pressure and a late Berlin comeback surviving for another day 86-82. The Dragons Rhondorf returned back home for another do or die affair and didn´t let down the home fans saving their best defensive performance of the season for almost last as they allowed only 21 points in the second half outlasting the Berlin Braves 2000 67-57 to reach the Pro B final against the Rhein Stars Cologne. “This is the farthest that I have ever gone in my pro career. It´s a great feeling. It is a blessing to finally have gotten here, but were not done yet. To be able to achieve our lowest scoring half with points allowed in such an important game is the best thing. We were all locked in”, warned Dragons Rhondorf guard Kelvin Omojola. The Berlin Braves gave it all they could, but in the second half were just completely stifled by the Rhondorf aggressive defense and their lethal on ball defense. “We weren´t always able to do what we wanted to on offense. Perhaps they had a bit more luck at the end and wanted it more than us. Despite the loss, I´m really proud of this team and their hard work”, stressed Berlin Braves 2000 guard Andrii Kozhemiakin.

Andrii Kozhemiakin at the FT line

The 2023-2024 season for the Dragons Rhondorf has been one to remember and the do or die games just don´t end. After thrilling series against Rostock and Wolmirstedt where Rhondorf had to go to the distance, they have to do it one more time against BG Berlin 2000 for their ticket to the Pro B final. After a disappointing 71-62 loss in game 1 in their living room, they were faced with a do or die game in Berlin, but withstood the pressure and a late Berlin comeback surviving for another day 86-82. The Dragons Rhondorf returned back home for another do or die affair and didn´t let down the home fans saving their best defensive performance of the season for almost last as they allowed only 21 points in the second half outlasting the Berlin Braves 2000 67-57 to reach the Pro B final against the Rhein Stars Cologne. “This is the farthest that I have ever gone in my pro career. It´s a great feeling. It is a blessing to finally have gotten here, but were not done yet. To be able to achieve our lowest scoring half with points allowed in such an important game is the best thing. We were all locked in”, warned Dragons Rhondorf guard Kelvin Omojola. The Berlin Braves gave it all they could, but in the second half were just completely stifled by the Rhondorf aggressive defense and their lethal on ball defense. “We weren´t always able to do what we wanted to on offense. Perhaps they had a bit more luck at the end and wanted it more than us. Despite the loss, I´m really proud of this team and their hard work”, stressed Berlin Braves 2000 guard Andrii Kozhemiakin.

Tyreese Blunt from outside

The Dragon Dome was sold out for the do or die game and witnessed the rainfall of three rapid three´s as Texas native Avery Sullivan (203-F/C-1999, college: Lamar) and ex Drake (NCAA) guard Antonio Pilipovic connected while Berlin got support from Philipp Daubner who had played 190 Pro A games in his career as Rhondorf led 6-3. But the Berlin Braves weren´t impressed by the quick Dragons start, but instead punched back hurling a 16-5 run into the face of the Dragons as Ukrainian guard Andrii Kozhemiakin began the explosion with 8 unanswered points as his shifty play and ability to chose his spots left the Dragons dumbfounded. “He is really crafty and knows how to change the pace well. It is difficult to stand in front of him. He does a good job attacking the mismatches”, stated Rheinstars Cologne guard Bryan Battle. The Berlin run continued as ex easyCredit BBL player Andreas Seifert made a lay in and ex EPG Baskets Koblenz sniper Marley Jean-Louis connected on 2 three´s for the 19-11 advantage. Andrii Kozhemiakin was ice cold in his play which seemed to shock the Dragons Rhondorf as they were fighting to construct an offensive rhythm. The Dragons Rhondorf got some fortune at the end of the first quarter as the guests got their 5th team foul allowing them to get 5 free points to trail 21-16 after 10 minutes. In the stat department the Berlin Braves shot 44% from the field and 45% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 30% from the field and 50% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers. “Both teams came out nervous. There was a lot on the line and both teams showed some nerves. The physicality of Berlin gave Rhondorf problems and Berlin is a team that profits off mistakes”, stressed Bryan Battle.

Martin Seiferth

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf fought back to retake the lead, but couldn´t hold it as the Berlin Braves 2000 led by 1 point at the break. Jean Louis began the second quarter with his third trey of the game giving the guests the 24-16 advantage. However the Dragons Rhondorf then got some massive support from their bigs as Fernc Gille added 7 points and Sullivan a bucket and a 11-1 run to grab back the lead 27-25. “This was the first time that I saw Gille play. He definitely passed the eye test. He is great close to the basket, but can also shoot”, added Bryan Battle. A flagrant foul by the Berlin Braves sparked Rhondorf as they stepped up their defense and just went inside and refrained on heaving the bombs from outside. It also helped Rhondorf´s cause that Andrii Kozhemiakin was on the bench in this phase as whenever he was out, their offense sputtered. However the Berlin Braves just continued to fight something they have done since their Regionalliga days and it was the powerful input by Andrii Kozhemiakin that helped them get the lead again at 33-32. Andrii Kozhemiakin kept attacking and got to the free throw line 3 times while Andreas Seifert also made a basket inside. Tyreese Blunt who had only had 2 points in this phase nailed a three, but Andrii Kozhemiakin closed out the second quarter with a lay in and 36-35 lead for Berlin. “Rhondorf made shots and momentum plays and open three´s killed Berlin´s run”, commented Bryan Battle. The Berlin Braves 2000 shot 38% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 9 turnovers and the Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 36% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Badu Buck at the FT line

In the third quarter both teams struggled to score in the first 5 minutes, but in the latter half, the Dragons Rhondorf were able to gain control of the game and lead by 4 points after 30 minutes. Pilipovic began the third quarter with a trey and ex Wusterhausen guard Simon Paul made a 20 footer to tie the game at 38-38. Then came the biggest scoring dry spell of the game for Rhondorf as they couldn´t get points for a little more than 4 minutes. In between, American Seth Compass made an off balance shot for the 40-38 advantage. Both teams couldn´t muster anything on offense as turnovers and sloppy play dominated their play. An untimely technical foul by Berlin head coach Achmadschah Zazai sparked the Dragons especially Avery Sullivan who responded with an offensive rebound and put back and then made a 15 footer and lay in for the 45-41 lead. He brought life into the team as they were able to overpower the guests inside with their length and physicality. Both teams were defending at a high intensity as one could see that the importance of the game was on every player´s menu. Ex Kronberg forward Noah Litzbach made a runner which was matched by a clutch three pointer on transition by Blunt for the 49-44 Dragons lead. Janne Muller followed with a free throw and Andreas Seifert closed out the third quarter with a pretty old school running hook shot, but the Dragons Rhondorf led 50-46. “I don´t feel like we had nerves. Rhondorf increased their defensive pressure and did a good job. We had enough open shots”, said Andrii Kozhemiakin. “I hate to admit it, but I did feel a bit nervous at the start of the third quarter. We knew how much was on the line. Both teams wanted it too much. Avery Sullivan really stepped it up. I told him this week that we needed him to dominate and he did”, smiled Kelvin Omojola. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 37% from the field and 29% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Berlin Braves 2000 shot 38% from the field and 29% from the parking lot and had 23 rebounds and 15 rebounds.

In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf continued to defend with passion and execute better on offense and never allowed the Berlin Braves to get over the hump. Rhondorf remained aggressive at both ends getting to the free throw line and getting a Gille lay in, but Berlin responded with buckets from Litzbach and Paul to trail only 55-50. However the Dragons Rhondorf didn´t let up with their defensive intensity and continued to allow only contested shots while they hammered the ball inside and got easy buckets from Gille and Sullivan to lead 59-52. 2018 NBBL champion Badu Buck then nailed a trey for the 62-52 lead with 2,32 to play. The Dragons Rhondorf had control of the game and now just had to overcome the crunch-time. Andreas Seifert added free throws, but the Berlin Braves hadn´t been able to get the big man the ball more and times was running down. Gille then added a furious alley-opp dunk which had the whole gym rocking as the Dragons led 64-54. “That was a nice dunk and such a great play. Everybody on the court touched the ball on that play. That just summed up our play as a team today. We all played as a unit”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Blunt then added a trey from the corner for the 67-54 lead as the Dragon Dome was on fire. Andreas Seifert closed out the game with a lay in, but it was too late too little. “We got stop after stop and we had our best 5 on the court. We were all focused, all were aggressive and rotating. It was a masterclass on defense”, warned Kelvin Omojola. “Rhondorf had more energy than us. That was the difference in the fourth quarter”, stressed Andrii Kozhemiakin. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Avery Sullivan with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Ferenc Gille added 15 points and Tyreese Blunt 11 points while the Berlin Braves 2000 were led by Andrii Kozhemiakin with 15 points while Andreas Seiferth had 12 points. e Dragons Rhondorf shot 37%from the field and 26% from outside and had 40 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Berlin Braves shot 35% from the field and 21% from outside and ahd 34 rebounds and 18 turnovers. 

J.J. Mann (198-SF-1991, college: Belmont) is a 32 year old 198cm forward that was born in East point Georgia and grew up in Chatham, Virginia. He is playing his 10th professional season and fifth in Germany and first with the Romerstrom Gladiators Trier. He played at the Hargrove Military academy and then played at Belmont (NCAA) from 2010-2014 playing a total of 140 NCAA games and as a senior averaged 18.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.6apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 39%, FT: 87.1%. He turned professional in 2014 and played his rookie season in Austria. He also played in countries like Belgium, Kosovo, Denmark, and Mexico. In Germany he played 2 seasons with Phoenix Hagen and 2 seasons with the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the game 1 loss to the Fraport Skyliners.

Thanks JJ for talking to germanhoops.com. The Romerstrom Gladiators lost a tough 72-70 game 1 at home in Frankfurt. How bitter was this loss?

Game 1 was definitely not the way how we wanted to start the series. It was a very good game until the last 2-3 minutes. Despite the loss I feel like we could take a lot of positives out of it.

Is it fair to say that this is a game Trier never should have lost?

Yes I think so. It´s the playoffs and crazy things happen. You play 40 minutes for a reason.

The Romerstrom Gladiators led 68-58 with 5 minutes to go. Frankfurt hadn´t scored in more than 4 minutes until the 3 point rain fall came. Did you guys get to comfortable with the 10 point lead?

A little bit. We didn´t do a good job on closing the door and left it open. Once Frankfurt saw 1 go in, the hole got bigger for them. The next thing we knew they hit some more and the next time we looked up, they had won.

The Fraport Skyliners closed out the game with a 14-0 run and 4 three´s. From your stand point how could that happen to such an experienced team like Trier?

The way we lost was very uncharachteristic of us. We aren´t perfect. Anyone can have difficult stretches, even experienced teams. This happens to the best of teams. We have to make sure it doesn´t happen again.

What did the team learn from this loss? Frankfurt went minutes without scoring and then Trier did. But Frankfurt did make the last run?

You had 2 really good shot making teams. It came down to who made the last shots at the end. We can´t allow them to make a last run like that again.

What words of wisdom did Don Beck give the team after the win?

He gave us great words that were very inspiring. He gave us a good perspective for game 2 and got us ready.

The guard trio of you, Barnes and Yakhchali combined for 47 points. On any other night that would have been enough to win, but you and Yakhcahli only shot 8/20. How aware are the trio that you could still have scored more?

We are aware of the power that we have. We are more than confident that we can score more in game 2.

Even if Trier has that lethal guard trio, how vital will it be getting Zirbes, Krimmer (0) points and Bacak more involved?

We are a complete team and have weapons all over the place. We have to utilize their games more. They can bring their A games and are studs. One game does not define their ability. I expect them to have strong contribution the rest of the way.

The postgame got ugly as Skyliners and Trier fans mixed it up. Did you feel the emotions on and off the court in game 1? This is a game of 2 ex BBL teams?

This series is an intense situation where the emotions are flying high. I expect it to continue.

Game 2 is a must win for Trier. How confident are you that you can win again like in January?

I´m very confident that we will win game 2.

How important has the acquisition of Jordan Barnes been for the injured Marcus Graves? What new dimension does he give the team?

Jordan has been awesome from day 1. He has been a fantastic player in his 3 years in Germany. He is a big time player that can make the big shots and has a ton of experience.

I love the game of Moritz Krimmer. What steps has he taken this step and where do you see his future going?

Mo has been awesome as well. He is the definition of consistency. He works hard in practice and competes hard in games. There is a difference between a professional athlete and professional competitor and he is a pro competitor. Good things happen when he is on the court. He is young and I see no reason why he can´t have a long career and play in first leagues.

Your having another solid Pro A season stat wise. How much fun is it playing in an offense where you don´t have much pressure to have to score 20 every night?

It is nice to know that I don´t have to score 20 points every night. It is great to have many options and we trust and believe in each other.

Game 1 and 2 against Munster were tough shooting days for you from outside, but found your stride again in the last 2 games shooting 7/18. How much of a challenge is it starting from scratch every game looking to get the best shooting percentage possible in the next game?

I just shoot it when I´m open. I always think I´m open. I trust my work and my shot. I will keep letting it fly. I have shown consistency the last 10 years being around 40%.

Who will reach the NBA final and then win it all?

I pick Denver meeting boston and Denver repeating.

Thanks J J for the chat.

Victor Bailey Jr (193-SG-1998, college: GMU) is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Austin, Texas playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team PS Karlsruhe. He began the season with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 9.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 39.0%, 3FGP: 34.3%, FT: 92.6%. He began his basketball career with McNeil High School. He began his NCAA career with the University of Oregon playing a total of 73 games. He averaged 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 87.0% and in his second year 7.4ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 91.1%. he then played 2 seasons at the University of Tennessee playing a total of 60 games averaging 10.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 82.8% and in his second season averaged 2.6ppg. He finished his NCAA career at George Mason University (NCAA) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 80.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the game 1 win in Hagen.

Thanks Victor for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on reaching the semi-finals and having the 1-0 lead. PS Karlsruhe was already a good team in January when you came, but how has the team grown until now?

We have gotten closer and closer as a team. This is the first time that we have had a full roster. We are close on and off the court and it shows.

You had some ups and downs in March but came into the playoffs strong with a 4 game winning streak. What did the team tweak in that winning streak?

We didn´t tweak anything, but just continued to do what we did before. We got even closer as a team and got more connected which helped us play better.

I always said that PS Karlsruhe would be an annoying opponent for Frankfurt. The team defends really well and just plays hard. What is the secret to the success?

We have practiced hard since I got on board. The success is a testament of our hard work. We didn´t always see the results as soon as we wanted to, but the results continue at the end.

I guess you were also an annoying opponent for Giessen. Do you sense like they underestimated PS Karlsruhe after the blow out game 1 win?

It´s possible. We came in as a 7th team. Many figured Giessen would beat us. We are a good team and aren´t easy to beat.

Is there any fear that PS Karlsruhe may have peaked too soon after that Giessen series win?

There is no fear. It´s just basketball.

How important has head coach Alexsandar Scepanovic been? How much credit does he get for the success of team?

I think there has been an even distribution between coach and us players. He has prepared us well and we have worked hard and applied what he has given us. We push each other and he has put us in a good situation to succeed.

Talk about the exciting game 4 87-86 win over Giessen. Was that one of the greatest games that you have been involved in in your young career?

This is my first experience overseas and I will always cherish that moment. I will always hold it close to my heart. Beating Giessen was a very good feeling. I hope it continues for us in the playoffs.

Talk about the last minutes of the game and the play of Bakkary Dibba? Is he one of those guys that you could imagine climbing up the ladder in the next years?

Sky is the limit for him. He works very hard. He is very athletic and a special talent. He is always working on his shot and has improved it as well.

You beat favorite Hagen on the road and are in the drivers seat. Is there never worry that the thin rotation could tire out the starters as the playoffs continue?

At this point of the season everyone is banged up and tired. That´s part of the game. Guys are feeling it, but that is what we are paid to do. We need to fight through it and take care of our bodies on off days.

You took care of the ball really well in game 1 and hit 13 three´s. Is that and continued solid defense the recipe to the final?

Defense wins championships. The more stops we can get the better. We have always been a defensive team. We will continue to impose our will on defense

Your game really took off in mid March. How was the adjustment coming off the bench?

I have come off the bench in college so I know the feeling. It has never bothered me. I´m comfortable with it. I play if I get 5, 10 or 50 minutes. I´m always ready to play.

You had massive games against Giessen and have really shown your ability to score. Has your role changed since the start?

It´s still the same. Coach and my teammates have encouraged me to be aggressive and shoot the ball. The difference now has been that I have made more shots.

Frankfurt also upset the favorite Trier in game 1 on the road. Could we see a Frankfurt-PS Karlsruhe final?

It´s very possible. Frankfurt is a very good team. Any team can win in this league. You have to be ready to play every night.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

I was born in Dallas. I want the Mavericks to win.

Thanks Victor for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Johan Gruenloh

My biggest highlight of my basketball broadcasting season is always the JBBL (U-16) and NBBL (U-19) top 4 that is held every year in May. This small tournament features Germany´s best teams and youth players battling to win the titles. I enjoy it so much, because you can witness how young men compete and then years later be able to remember this time when they continue to move up the basketball ladder into the pro ranks. Guys that I had seen in the last years that have made a name for themselves were players like Franz Wagner, Bruno Vrcic, Nelson Weidemann, Benjamin Schroeder, Jonas Mattissek and Nils Machowski. I also enjoy being able to do the play by play even if it is very challenging calling 4 semi-finals on Saturday and 2 finals on Sunday. The 4 semi-finals is the biggest challenge of the season for me simply because I´m in nonstop action from 11:00 am to about 22:00 am with very little time for breaks and small talk with people attending the great event. Being able to remember all the names of the players is the biggest challenge. Making mistakes and here and there mixing up players happens every time. Preparation is a big part of being able to be as successful as possible in describing the action on the court. This was my sixth top 4 after having been in Frankfurt 3 times, in Quackenbruck and in Jena. This year it was in Berlin and I would have my longest road trip so far covering this illustrious event.

Dirk Bauermann and Steffen Hamann

I had some real misfortune this time around as on that weekend where the top 4 was scheduled for, I had some personal business as well that I couldn´t realize. My Aunt had a massive family get together on Friday night and my town had the annual kirmes activity. But what one doesn´t do for the love of the game? My journey to Berlin began on Friday afternoon as I took the ICE train to Berlin. I don´t travel much by ICE anymore these days so much, so being able to take in the pretty landscape was something I enjoyed. Besides reading notes for my broadcast and reading some basketball literature, I was able to sit back and rest a bit before the stress would start on Saturday. It may be stress, but, but stress I love. There is a big difference there. I arrived in Berlin on Friday night around 21:30 and still had to take a tram and subway to finally reach my destination. A big non basketball highlight occurred at the Berlin main train station. I was searching for the tram and first asked 3 women who gave me that feared famous line “We aren´t from Berlin, we can´t help you”. Then I moved to my right and observed a well dressed lady who was just standing there minding her own business and then I asked her if this track was where the train went to Charlottenberg. She said yes. Then I just blurted out. “hey I know you”. She respondes “No you don´t”. Yes I do. You played on the Soap opera “Unter Uns. You see I did watch your show”. The lady was Petra Blossey a German actress who was one of the stars on Unter Uns between 1994-2019. She smiled and it seemed like she didn´t really want anyone to know. We got on the train and mingled briefly and I told her my story. I asked her for a selfie and she just said. “Let´s try to make it as discreetly as possible”, she smiled. Well everybody saw it, but no one cared. I finally arrived my hotel at 22:15. There I checked in and met with journalist Jan Finken and some of the employees of the NBBL and DBB who were chatting. Later I arrived in my room and went to sleep. I needed enough rest for the big Saturday with 4 games.

Yanu Slingerland

Over the years I had had many side kicks, guys that had done play by play with me and this time it wouldn´t be any different. I was assigned a who´s who of the best known German basketball figures that one could only imagine. I would have the pleasure calling games with legendary ex German national team coach Dirk Bauermann who had won 9 BBL titles and led Germany with Dirk Nowitzki to the Silver at the Euro 2005, Steffen Hamann an ex player who had been on that 2005 national team and played most of his career with Bamberg, current U-18 youth national team coach Alen Ibrahimagic and ex player Jan Jagla who had had an illustrious career playing at the 2008 Olympics and winning the 2008 ULEB Cup with Spanish ACB team Joventut and Ricky Rubio. The first game was at 11 am and pitted the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg against Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg. It was the Oldenburg Cinderella story of the season against Ludwigsburg that had won the JBBL title before in 2015. Oldenburg had come into the season as a team that probably wouldn´t even make the playoffs, but in the end had an incredible 18 winning streak. The players developed time by time and the self-confidence rose as well. This was a game where Oldenburg was never in danger of losing. Oldenburg began quickly scorching Ludwigsburg for 29 points in the first quarter. Ludwigsburg did find an offensive groove in the second and third quarter scoring 46 points combined, but couldn´t damper Oldenburg´s offense much as they also scored at ease. In the fourth quarter, Oldenburg showed once more their heart allowing only 8 points and easily sealing the win. Oldenburg´s 2 stars Yanu Slingerland and Djordje Klaric combined for 50 points showing their incredible game as a potent duo. I got the ultimate compliment as Dirk Bauermann said as the game began that it was an honor to call a game with me. He was an incredible analyst who gave insightful information about the players. I was able to call the second game with Steffen Hamann who is coach of the German U-15 team. He as well was a great side kick giving his knowledgeable insights about the young boys. This game was between Alba Berlin and Ratiopharm Ulm and belonged to the most exciting game of the weekend. This is a game that deserved 2 winners. Both teams gave it their all, but Alba Berlin eked out the exciting 86-83 victory in overtime. It was the duel between the 2 stars Anton Kemmer and Teo Millic and nobody disappointed as they combined for 56 points. Alba Berlin trailed with 24 points at halftime, but made an inspiring comeback in the second half. It was a total team effort and it was Anton Kemmer that tied the game at 73-73 with 13 seconds remaining to send the game into OT. In the end it was the deeper bench of Alba Berlin that prevailed. Ulm was exhausted and star Millic had cramps. Kemmer made the big shot for the 84-83 lead and win.

Djordje Klaric

One wondered if one could top the Alba-Ulm game, and the first NBBL semi-final proved to be another very exciting game as FC Bayern Munich battled the Young Rasta Dragons. I called this game with German U-18 head coach Alan Ibrahimagic. He also gave insightful facts about the top players and game. For me this was the real final that really was only a semi-final. It was a game that showcased the top guards in youth basketball with Ivan Kharchenkov and Martin Kalu and Jack Kayil (191-PG-2006) and Joshua Bonga. A big factor in the game was Vechta being able to insert top German prospect Johan Gruenloh who had played only 1 NBBL game and had concentrated his season with the easyCredit BBL. Munich came out strong and had the 20-14 advantage after one quarter, but Vechta fought back and led 34-33 thanks to their strong guard duo. The Young Rasta Dragons took control in the third quarter once again thanks to the dominating play of Kayil as well as Gruenloh who hit 2 three´s to lead by 8 points after 30 minutes. In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Minuten made a last run under the watchful eyes of Marko Pesic who was there to watch son Luca play. But in crunch-time the guard duo of Kayil and Bonga was too much as they sealed the win with clutch three´s to win 78-71. Johan Gruenloh was the X-factor with his 23/14 game. I was able to call the last NBBL semi-final game between the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg and Porsche BBA Ludwisgburg with ex player Jan Jagla. He also displayed informative facts about the game and the youth players. Ludwigsburg went into the game as the favorite, but trailed 20-15 after a quarter. Ludwigsburg found better to their game and heightened their field goal percentage and were led by athletic freak Esli Edigin that supplied 12 points. Oldenburg took control of the game in the third quarter to lead 60-43 as the three point accuracy of Milan Evin was massive. Ludwigsburg fought and trailed only 60-57 thanks to a big 3 from Marko Masic, but in crunch-time, Oldenburg had the better nerves winning 81-74. Milan Evin led alls corers with 20 points.

Karl Buehner

On Sunday morning, I once again was in the lobby at 9:30 and asked the Oldenburg coaching staff if I could ride the bus to the arena. The coaching staff just smiled. Of course you can. You are our good luck charm. You rode with us yesterday and gave us luck and will do the same today. Being their good luck charm was my other best personal experience at the weekend. I once again called the game with Dirk Bauermann. The first final was the JBBL final between the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg and Alba Berlin and this promised to be a classic. It had the same kind of course as the first game for Alba Berlin. The first half was a close battle, but in the third quarter like against Ulm, Alba Berlin struggled and trailed 65-52 as the dynamic duo of Klaric and Slingerland dominated. But Alba Berlin wasn´t about to lay down and wilt like a flower, but made one last run in the fourth quarter led by Anton Kemmer´s powerful game and key three´s by Fin Borczanowski and Sebastian Christancho dead locked the game at 70-70. Big man Bruno Walz made the game winning shot with 11 seconds. Alba Berlin had one more chance for OT, but the ball didn´t fall. Slingerland had a monster game of 23/18 and 8 steals while Djordje Klaric had 28 points and was voted Top 4 MVP. I had 3 hours time until the NBBL final as the girl´s final was in between. In this time, I was able to mingle with people I knew from the German basketball scene. People I saw and others that I mingled with included people like Paul Albrecht, Tyseem Lyles, Jannik Freese, Allan Ray, Gerrit Kerstin-Thiele, Darren Stackhose (cousin of NBA legend Jerry Stackhouse), Martin Funkele and Joe Asberry. It was especially sweet to see Asberry as he is a guy I talk to daily, but never see much because he lives in Berlin. The second final was at 5:00 pm and this was between the Young Rasta Dragons and the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg. Vechta was the massive favorite and showed quickly that for them this year would be three is a charm. After losing the last 2 finals, there was no way that they would lose this one. I called the NBBL final with Alan Ibrahimagic again. The Young Rasta Dragons controlled the game and were never in danger of losing the game. Their strongest quarters were the second and fourth where they combined for 52 points. The Young Rasta Dragons had the deeper rotation and were rewarded with 6 guys that scored in double figures and were led by Jack Kayil and Karl Buehner that had 16 points a piece. Jack Kayil was awarded the Top 4 MVP. I left the gym at 8.15 and took the train home at 9:15 and was back home at 4:30 am. All in all, it was another great Top 4 that had many exciting and down to the wire games. For me as well, it was another incredible basketball experience. Thanks to the NBBL for letting me be a part of it again.

Dejan Stojanovski is a coach from Macedonia that currently is head coach of the Juniors Baskets Oldenburg U-16 team. He had playing experience playing with clubs like Bremerhaven, SC Rasta Vechta, TSV Lesum-Burgdamm and BSG Bremerhaven. Before coming to Oldenburg, he coached Weser Baskets Bremen/BTS Neustadt. He currently helped the Junior Baskets Oldenburg win the 2024 JBB title and spoke to germanhoops.com bout it

Congrats Dejan on winning the 2024 JBBL (U-16) title. Was that the best basketball experience in your life so far?

Yes I can say so as a coach. I also had nice memories as a player. As a player you have no worries and just play but as a coach it´s different. I have had other nice memories as coach like being an assistant with Vechta when they moved up and also being an assistant coach with Phoenix Hagen where we reached the final in the NBBL- Fabian Bleck was my player. 50% of my players never played at a level like JBBL before this season. But I´m sure the Alba Berlin players will go their ways

How big can one rate the JBBL title? I mean you were the underdog since day 1?

You have to rate this very high. We were always the underdog. We lost many close games and had to enter the regulation round. We had to go step by step. When we beat Vechta by 30 points, I realized that this might be a special team. Then we just kept winning and took it one game at a time. When we beat Chemnitz, I knew that they were ready for more.

How was the bus ride home. Some of your players said that they would listen to music and sing. Was it really like that?

Despite the NBBL team losing, the guys still celebrated. The first hour there was a lot of music and it was loud. The NBBL guys were happy for our guys.

I rode the bus to the game with the team both games and you won. Was I the good luck charm?

Hey good, yes you brought us luck. It was all so positive. We had a lot of support from everyone.

If someone had told you in September 2023 that the Baskets junior Oldenburg would win the 2024 JBBL title what would you have thought?

I would of never thought that and declared that person for crazy. We had 2-3 talented kids and 5-6 guys that could play at the level. We thought we would play to stay in the group and we never had playoffs on our minds.

I had the sense on the second bus ride to the gym that your boys had that no fear mentality. Did you also feel that despite playing against the big name Alba Berlin?

Yes I did. I never felt like we had fear. I always told the guys that no matter who we play, just play our game for 40 minutes. Our goal was to play as hard as possible and see if they would be ready for our game.

In the first half Oldenburg were the more energetic and awake team. Did Alba Berlin play scared?

Alba Berlin definitely weren´t there. We were ready. We didn´t prepare anything special for them. We played the same way that we did against Ludwigsburg. It was really nothing special. We also defended the same way.

Oldenburg had control of the game in the second half, but Alba Berlin came back. Did you get tired as a team?

I told the guys not to be afraid to win. I told them to continue to play our game. Of course basketball is always a game of runs. They came back and hit three´s. But we made the last punch and stopped them.

Did Oldenburg want it more at the end?

I think we really did. We were very lucky to have an incredible duo with Klaric and Slingerland. Slingerland is a great motor that kept Klaric´s back free all season long.

Alba Berlin player Jona Drucker took the last shot. What was your feeling when he released it?

We lost him for a second on switch. The ball flew and the world stopped for me. I just thought please don´t go in now. But the game wouldn´t have been over. My players told me after that the shot would of only counted as 2 points.

Djordje Klaric was Top 4 MVP, but couldn´t there have been co MVP´s with Yanu Slingerland?

I think Yanu would have deserved as well. But that isn´t my job to decide. The MVP is only an individual title. For me the whole team was MVP. All his teammates helped him achieve this.

The worth of Djordje Klaric and Yanu Slingerland is indescribable. What do you appreciate most about their games?

Their worth is so big. They are together a big motor. But the others are also so important. We have so many guys doing dirty work. I appreciate their winning mentality the most. They show it in each practice and game. Klaric never wants to lose.

How valuable is Matti Oldiges? Does he sometimes get lost in the shadow of Klaric and Slingerland?

Yes he does. He has made an unbelievable development this season. He is 3 days away from being born in 2010. He is playing already at a high level in the JBBL at his age. The stability he gave us was so valuable. If he hadn´t been able to bring the ball as much as he did then we would have had problems. Klaric can´t do it the whole time. He was one of our most important puzzle pieces in our success.

Talk a little about how valuable Bruno Walz was. How important was his game around the rim against Alba Berlin?

Bruno is very underrated. He has only played since 1,5 years. I remember when he came, he had no idea what he had to do and his shot was horrible. He also has made an unbelievable development this season. He worked hard for minutes and we gave him trust. He is also a great guy. He is like a bear to hug. It is also great to see how happy he is for his play. I remember during the Berlin game he came to me and said, did you see my block on Kemmer. He is so satisfied and happy with everything.

How do you feel did you grow as a coach this season?

There was so much turbulence this season. I knew many of the kids coming into the season. I set many impulses and grew as a coach. It is great that you get rewarded for your work. But it is so incredible how this season came together. When everything works, you really can reach the peak. I also learned a lot form Pedro Calles. I learned how a team culture should be. I´m from the Balkan and follow Serbian basketball. I took a lot form the Serbian U-18 Gold medal team into this season. They also had a Cinderella season like we did.

Djordje Klaric wants to return as JBBL player and thinks they can defend title. What is the next step for you? Will you remain as JBBL coach? It would be fitting wouldn´t it?

Yes of course. After winning the title, next season would be another big challenge. Just because you have the MVP, doesn´t mean the next season will be like the last one. We all have to improve and develop further. I don´t think that another JBBL season would be right for Djordje. The club will make that decision. I don´t know about my situation. Mladen Drjiencic is coming back to head the youth department. We will see what happens with my situation. I enjoy coaching at this level. I will enjoy a few days now and then get ready for the off season work.

Thanks Dejan for the chat.

Yanu Slingerland is a 16 year old 188cm guard playing his first season for the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg JBBL (U-16) team. He is originally from the Netherlands and helped his team win the JBBL title in Berlin. He was the most improved on the team and spoke to germanhoops.com after the 2024 JBBL title.

Congrats Yanu on winning the 2024 JBBL (U-16) title. How do you feel?

I feel great. Nobody thought that we could ever win this. We were always the underdog this season. But we showed that we could win the title.

If someone had told you in September 2023 that the Baskets junior Oldenburg would win the 2024 JBBL title what would you have thought?

I wouldn´t have believed it. Our coach thought that we could make the playoffs after the regulation. I never would have thought that we could reach the top 4.

I had the honor of taking the Oldenburg team bus to the arena on final day. I remember on the bus we are going to blow out Alba Berlin. Who said that?

I think that I said this. I always thought we could win. I had total faith in the team.

In the first half Oldenburg were the more energetic and awake team. Did Alba Berlin play scared?

I think that Alba may have thought coming in that we would be an easy match up and thus relaxed too much. I didn´t think though that we would play so well at the start.

Oldenburg had control of the game in the second half, but Alba Berlin came back. Did you get tired as a team?

Yes I think we were. I came out for 1 minute and then had to come in right away. We were tired as a team because we really played a lot of minutes.

Did Oldenburg want it more at the end?

Yes I think that we did. When they came back at the end we were able to stop their last run and close out the game.

Alba Berlin player Jona Drucker took the last shot. What was your feeling when he released it?

I had the perfect view and thought it would fall. We were lucky that it went in and out. But I think it would have only been a 2 anyway.

I think that Oldenburg wouldn´t have won without you. You were my MVP.

I come in and just try to do all I can for my team. I would have loved to have been MVP but Djordje deserved it. It´s ok.

What you do appreciate most about your teammate Djordje Klaric?

He is a very good player and very humble. He always knows when to score and when to pass. He always knows how to help the team.

You have made incredible massive strides in 1 year. How do you explain this rise?

At the start it was very difficult, because it was my first time playing and everything was so new to me. I had to change the mechanics on my shot and that was hard. I think that having very good court vision anyway has helped my game very much

How much does your ambition to continue to play basketball grow with this title?

This title gives the team and me a lot of confidence. I want to continue playing and hope I can play NBBL next season.

How will 14-16 year olds celebrate on the bus trip home?

We will listen to a lot of music and sing. Being together as a team after winning the title is the best.

Thanks Yanu for the chat.

Djordje Klaric (2009) is a 15 year old 190cm point guard that just completed his JBBL season with the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg. He scored over 50 points twice and registered an incredible 41 points and a triple double over Wuppertal. He won the 2024 JBBL Top 4 MVP and helped his team to the 2024 JBBL title. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the title win.

Congrats Djordje on winning the 2024 JBBL (U-16) title. How do you feel?

I feel great. It is 100% happiness.

If someone had told you in September 2023 that the Baskets junior Oldenburg would win the 2024 JBBL title what would you have thought?

I would of said that your crazy. We had a tough season at the start, but we continued to develop and believe in ourselves.

Despite being the underdog did you believe like you could win the title?

We came to Berlin to win. We didn´t think as a team that we could win, but I never gave up thinking that we had a chance. After the first quarter against Alba Berlin, I was 100% sure that we would win.

It looked like the team had no fear to lose.

Perhaps some of us had fear, but I never did and tried to take the fear from those that had it. We had nothing to lose.

In the first half Oldenburg were the more energetic and awake team. Did Alba Berlin play scared?

I think that we showed more fight at the start. We were diving for loose balls and forcing them to contested shots. They also missed easy lay ups while we didn´t

Oldenburg had control of the game in the second half, but Alba Berlin came back. Did you get tired as a team?

We should of closed the door on them, but let them come back. When I was on the bench, they came back. I was sure we would win when the game was tied at 70-70.

Did Oldenburg want it more at the end?

Yes I think that we did. We went through so much this season. We were always the underdog, but never gave up.

Alba Berlin player Jona Drucker took the last shot. What was your feeling when he released it?

I thought that it would go in. Even though I contested it, it looked so good. When he released it I was thinking please don´t go. I had that Kawhi Leonard feeling

Congrats on winning MVP, but wouldn´t have Yanu Slingerland also have been a good candidate?

I think so. His stats of 23/18 and 8 steals were crazy. He has developed very well this season and always helps at both ends. He always plays well when opponents try to limit me. He makes the right reads. I´m very happy with how well he played.

What you do appreciate most about your teammate Yanu Slingerland?

I appreciate his defense and hustling the most. He is quicker than his brother and God gave him great hands. It seems like he can deflect every pass.

10 minutes after the title win, I observed you in a silent moment with the trophy. What were you thinking in that moment?

I don´t really know. I think I just looked back at our season. We lost the first game to Vechta. I had something like 37 points and the next top scorer had something like 8 points. There was too much isolation in that first game. I thought oh no, this could be a difficult season. But we all developed well with time.

What does this MVP title mean to you?

I´m happy I won the MVP, but winning the title was way cooler.

What is the next step for you?

I could play NBBL, but I can imagine playing JBBL. We will have many back and be strong. It would be cool to defend our title.

How will 14-16 year olds celebrate on the bus trip home?

We will listen to music and sing. We are all friends. I think I slept over Yanu´s house around 10 times this season.

Thanks Djordje for the chat.

It was a Kodak picture moment in Berlin Charlottenburg when Rasta Vechta Pro A coach Hendrik Gruhn was going down the line of Young Rasta Dragons players on the bench and giving each play hug by hug and flashing that incredible winners smile that is seen when there is total satisfaction. How tough had the last 2 NBBL years been for the Vechta junior basketball program as they had lost the final both years to Alba Berlin and last season on a buzzer beater by Nils Machowski. This season in their third final in a row, they wanted it to be 3 is a charm. And this season there would be no denying the Young Rasta Dragons as they came on a mission to Berlin and destroyed surprise team Baskets Juniors Oldenburg 89-54. Hendrik Gruhn wasn´t the head coach this season, but in a sense, it was his title as well as all the whole team were his guys. Guys that he had worked hard with the last years and had helped develop them further. Gruhn had worked closely this season with new NBBL head coach Horst Harm-Ubbo who had coached the JBBL team last season and it was a total club effort as everyone was in some way involved. The Young Rasta Dragons came into the final as the big favorite and didn´t disappoint as they led quickly from the start and never let Oldenburg into the game. German captain Karl Buehner had a giant smile on his face as he had suffered the last 2 years, but now was on top of the mountain. “The feeling to finally win the title is amazing. To lose like we did the first 2 times was tough, and we had to win it the third time. We were hungry from the start. We knew we had a big chance to win today. We defended well from start to end. I have to give a lot of credit to Hendrik Gruhn who helped so much and coach Horst Harm-Ubbo who prepared us so well the last 2 weeks”, stressed Karl Buehner. “Vechta is a really strong team with many junior national players. We didn´t show our best game. We just didn´t have enough to challenge their individual qualities. Our game plan was to try to close the zone and get rebounds. We weren´t able to accomplish that”, stressed Baskets Juniors Oldenburg guard Simon Kohlhoff.

Djairo Bernadina form outside

The Young Rasta Dragons didn´t waste anytime jumping all over the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg taking the rapid 12-3 lead. In the run the Young Rasta Dragons showcased their lethal inside out offense that especially focused big German talent Johan Gruenloh who scored twice inside. Give him the ball near the bucket and he will make you pay with an easy basket. Ex Fraport Skyliner Joshua Bonga (190-PG-2005)a also added 5 points including a trey as did Karl Buehner who sparkled as usual on the glass at both ends showing his incredible instincts for the ball. Vechta defended hard and aggressive and didn´t give anything simple to Oldenburg as they had to work hard for every shot. The Baskets Juniors then found some daylight and showed that they can explode in a short time as they made back to back three´s from Germans Johan Helwig and scoring ace Igor Jokic to trail 12-9. Oldenburg took advantage of Gruenloh being on the bench to get back into the game. However they couldn´t ever find a defensive identity in the game as they couldn´t slow down the immense individual quality of the Vechta players. Bonga added free throws and talented young German Moritz Gruess a mid distance jumper to lead 16-10. Collin Schroeder and Marko Petric closed out the first quarter swapping three´s as the Young Rasta Dragons led 19-13. “We begin well, but then our second unit came in and it isn´t always easy to keep the flow. Oldenburg also hit tough shots”, stated Young Rasta Dragon Karl Buehner. “Oldenburg did a good job to come back. They also have many weapons that are capable to make tough shots. Oldenburg did a good job slowing down Vecnta´s transition and didn´t allow easy points. Vechta remained cool despite Oldenburg´s comeback”, stressed German U-18 head coach Alan Ibrahimagic.

Noah Slingerland from outside

In the second quarter the Young Rasta Dragons continued to execute their offense well and were able to break open the game to lead by 23 points at half-time. 2023 NBBL champion Jack Kayil nailed a trey to open up the second quarter, but Jokic had an answer making a jumper as Vechta trailed 22-15. The Young Rasta Dragons continued to supply pressure and went on a 9-1 run to trail 31-18. In the run the Young Rasta Dragons demonstrated again that they have so many weapons as ex Iserlohn forward Linus Trettin supplied 5 points including a trey and massive alley-oop dunk as Kayil supplied the pretty pass. With so many great players on the team, is Trettin a bit in the shadow of Gruenloh and some of the other talented guards. “I don´t feel like Linus is in the shadow of others. He can do it all with defending bigger players, making three´s or dunks. We have so much quality on the team that not every guy can have a big scoring game each night”, stated Karl Buehner. Oldenburg responded with a Kohlhoff jumper to trail 31-18, but Vechta never stopped applying defensive pressure or in anyway to put their foot off the gas pedal. They were able to up their intensity a bit more and go into the break with a lethal 16-6 run to lead 47-24. In the run the Young Rasta Dragons continued to move the ball well and get as many involved as possible. Buehner drilled home another trey while 16 year old Marco Petric gave his usual energy from the bench with 5 points and 2 lay in´s as his speed and athleticism overwhelmed Oldenburg. Kayil continued to be his aggressive self as he just dominated the way a MVP should with 8 points showing his 3 level scoring ability with a lay in, three pointer and dunk after getting a steal. Jokic closed out the first half with a timely three pointer. “Kayil was key leading us. We had a lot of fast break baskets helped by our defense that we also were able to raise. Our guard pressure was outstanding and we helped each other”, stressed Karl Buehner. “Vechta was able to break open the game. They played smart defense, but not too aggressive. When Oldenburg closed the zone, Vechta made three´s”, commented Alan Ibrahimagic.

Karl Buehner with the block

In the third quarter the Young Rasta Dragons remained consistent and just continued to execute very well on offense and defend well as the Baskets juniors couldn´t make any ground what´s so ever. It was obvious that the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg needed to have a strong start into the third quarter, but the opposite happened as it was disastrous. Oldenburg allowed the Young Rasta Dragons on a 10-0 run to trail 57-24 after the first few minutes. In the run, the Young Rasta Dragons punished Oldenburg inside. Vechta used their height and physicality advantage getting 2 lay in´s from Buehner, while Trettin made a dunk, Grunloh a tip in and Bonga a lay in. It seemed like with every new basket, Oldenburg´s confidence went down more and more as they were falling apart. Vechta´s body language was incredible as the only thing on the minds of the players was team basketball. Vechta continued to execute the way they wanted to playing smooth inside out basketball as Bonga connected for a trey with 1 second on the shot clock and Kayil made another lay in to lead 64-30. High damage had been done by the Young Rasta Dragons and in the last minutes, they stepped off the gas pedal and allowed Oldenburg to close out the third quarter with a strong 10-1 run to trail 65-40. Miran Evan who had been a central figure in the semi-final win over Ludwigsburg with 20 points came alive with 6 points all in the paint. He changed his game a little after having misfortune from down town in the first half going 0-4. Little used undersized big Leander Nzume who began to play at age 14 gave immense energy from the bench scoring 4 points. “Oldenburg showed real character by continuing to fight despite being down by 30 +”, expressed Alan Ibrahimagic. “They defended very well and we had to take many contested shots. Their aggressive guard pressure and rim protection hurt us”, stressed Simon Kohlhoff. “We wanted to keep our intensity high right from the start so they wouldn´t have any chance of coming back”, added Karl Buehner.

Karl Buehner 3 is a charm!

There was absolutely no let down by the Young Rasta Dragons in the fourth quarter as even their bench kept the play high and was able to execute and win the quarter 24-14. Both teams came out letting it rain three´s as Vechta got support from Buehner and Petric while Noah Slingerland had the hot hand twice, but the Baskets Junior Oldenburg still trailed 71-46. Vechta made one more run to completely slam the door shut on Oldenburg with 9 points while Oldenburg amassed only 1 point. In the run, Vechta was aided by 2 Gruenloh lay in´s, another three pointer by Karl Buehner and free throws by Joshua Bongaa. “I made some early three´s which boosted my confidence. I missed some easy lay ups, but my rebounding was solid as usual”, stated Karl Buehner. In the last minutes Leander Nzume contiued to give Oldenburg energy and was rewarded with 3 additional buckets. “Leander is a very hard worker and gives energy in every practice. He rebounded very well and all his baskets were hustle plays”, said Simon Kohlhoff. Vechta continued to move the ball well, find open players and execute until the end. Trettin added 5 points. Oldenburg had little energy as a team and had to accept defeat. German Tim Nocke closed out the game with a lay in for Oldenburg. “We put in our bench at the end and there was no let down. They did a good job and it was fun watching them”, added Karl Buehner. “We fought until the end and just wanted to finish the game as best as we could”, added Simon Kohlhoff. The Young Rasta Dragons had 6 guys in double figures scoring led by Joshua Bongaa and Karl Buehner with 16 points a piece. Jack Kayil added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and Linus Trettin 12 points and 9 rebounds while the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg were led by Simon Kohlhoff and Leander Nzume with 10 points a piece. The Young Rasta dragons shot 43% from the field and 29% from outside and had 52 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg shot 35% from the field and 26% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Dimitrios Polychroniadis is a head coach currently coaching the NBBL (U-19 team) for the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg. As a player he played for ASC Gottingen and the Osnabruck SC. He has much coaching experience helping the Osnabruck SC win the Regionalliga title and helped USC Leipzig reach the Pro B. He also coached BBC Magdeburg. He has been with the EWE Baskets organization since 2019 and spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2024 NBBL Top 4 in Berlin.

Thanks Dimitrios for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on reaching the JBBL/NBBL top 4 with the JBBL team. This is a massive achievement. How high can one rate this achievement?

This is a huge achievement for the organization. It is even more special that both the JBBL and NBBL teams made it. It is the first time that both teams have made it. We were honored before a BBL game against Tuebingen and got a standing ovation.

Oldenburg finished the regular season with a 11-4 record. How would you summarize the regular season? The team began slow but ended strong?

I was actually the coach of the JBBL team to begin the season, but then a change was made and I took over as NBBL coach on October 3rd. Our goal when I took over was to go game by game. The start was tough as we had 7-9 guys injured and we lost the first 2 games. But with the third game we began a winning streak. Injured guys came back and shortly before Christmas, we achieved a big win in Berlin against Alba. Something clicked with the team after that win. The team realized that there was potential. We then beat Vechta. Every new win gave us added confidence. We then won 2 playoff series against good teams Goettingen and Leverkusen. We had injuries once again in these series having 3-4 guys out. But we continued to grow together as a team.

You swept Alba Berlin. That is incredible. That is something that didn´t happen the last years. Did Alba Berlin have a weak season because they lost so many guys from last season?

I can´t comment about Alba Berlin. They still had 3 youth national players and a player that got BBL minutes. We don´t have that luxury. Even if Alba didn´t have the kind of season that they are used to, they are still Alba and a tough team to play. Winning in Berlin was a milestone. We were pretty healthy. We gained a lot of confidence. We then beat them again at home. Alba had all it´s players. We had a great second half where we were in the flow and were unstoppable. One has to understand that we don´t always play like that. There are some days in sport where this happens. If you were to compare team pics, we would be 5-8 centimeters smaller. We beat Alba Berlin because we had the right tactic and motivation.

Is it fair to say that defense is the team´s biggest strength. Is this a team that just plays with tremendous heart?

Yes we do. I got the greatest compliment from an ex Oldeburg player who said that he has never seen a team that dives on the floor as much as my team. We are successful because we play for each other. We do it game by game and not sometimes.

How exciting was the series against Leverkusen? That could of gone either way. How did you experience this fascinating 3 game series?

Leverkusen was a bit older than us, were more robust and athletic and played very hard. Important for us in this series was that we had the needed energy and effort to beat them in a 3 game series. We won game by 18 points because we had a strong fourth quarter and made the right run. We could of won game 2, but lost at the end because we couldn´t get the ball to the open guy under the basket. We then had a terrible practice week before game 3 because many were sick. But despite these problems, everybody that could play came together. We had a good lead, but they hit very untypical three´s to make the game close again. But we stuck together and won at the end. They missed the last shot to win.

Talk a little about Igor Jokic. Does he have to explode against Ludwigsburg for Oldenburg to have chances to win?

We don´t tell Igor to take the ball and score, score score, but his game flourishes out of the system we create. He takes the opportunities to create for himself and others. He is very good with his individual qualaties boosted through his 3×3 play with the Serbian U-18 team. It always depends how the opponent orientates themselves against him and how he and we react.

How vital are Collin Schroeder and Simon Kohlhoff? How have you seen their development?

Simon has made a big jump this season. He understood this season that he is valuable at both ends of the court. His experience in the Regionalliga really has helped him. He had problems at the start against older players, but adjusted well as time went by. He was cool against pressure and took responsibility and hit big shots. Collin also has developed very well. He is so athletic and rebounds so well. He plays with a lot of emotion and his IQ got better as well.

You won a Pro b title with Osnabrueck and helped Leipzig move up to the Pro B. What is the biggest challenge for you when coaching boys?

I have gained a lot of experience through the years. The most important thing for me is that the boys have fun and I try to prepare them as best as possible for the game on the court and in life. I love basketball and try to transport fun to them.

What is the biggest satisfaction that you get with boys that you don’t´ get with men?

I love basketball and really have always tried to transport that fun to all my teams. I try to prepare boys to get to the BBL or other leagues like the pro A or Pro B. For me the biggest satisfaction is seeing boys reach the next level and profiting from my guidance.

Is it fair to say that Oldenburg is the underdog against Ludwigsburg? What kind of game can we await?

I would call ourselves the underdog. We came from the B division. Ludwigsburg is a bit older and very athletic. I think that it will be a high level game. We will try to play our game and use our weapons as best as possible.

Ludwigsburg allow 65 points and Oldenburg 66 points. Will this be the ultimate defensive battle and will it be an ugly game?

Every player and coaches of both teams want to reach the final. I expect that both teams will play very aggressive to be able to reach their goal. I hope my team can do this from start to end.

The other semi-final between FC Bayern Munich and the Young Rasta Dragons is like a final. Who do you see advancing to the final?

Munich is a very strong team. One saw how important Kharchenkov was in the last game against IBAM. Vechta didn´t always play with all players because the players played pro A. I await a hot dance. It will be an open game. It will also be a high level game. The best team will win.

Thanks Dimitrios for the chat.