Justin Stallbohm is a 31 year old 182 cm guard that has played for the men´s Limburg team since 2007. He began his career with Eintracht Frankfurt and this season finished with stats of 7,0ppg, 4,0rpg and 4,0apg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2023-2024 season.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. The Bona Baskets Limburg won 10 games, but will move down to the Regionalliga 2. How tough was this season for you?

We didn´t play well in the first half, but I feel like in the second half of the season we played very well against the top teams and beat the team´s that we had to.

How tough was this season. Since years Limburg plays with a very thin rotation? How do you deal with it mentally?

I have been used to it now for some years. The good thing about a thin rotation is that you don´t lose your rhythm with coming in and out often. But obviously with a deeper rotation we would have had better chances to win in games.

How has your role changed over the last few years with such a reduced roster?

I don´t think like my role has changed much. I have always been a team player and always try to make the right decision. That has always been my role.

Often Limburg played with 6 guys. How tough is it playing defense? Can you really give 100%?

I think over time you just learn how to play defense with a thin rotation. We play zone with a thin rotation to limit fouls. But I do feel like we would probably play better defense with a larger rotation.

What was it like playing with Americans Daniel Mcghee and Aaron Burt? What did you appreciate most from their games?

It was really fun to play with them. Both have different games, but they both helped us win games.

You have been teammates with Matej Kljaic for some years now. Are you guys like brothers now?

Yes he is like a brother for me. We know each other since 3 years. I really like to play with him. We are both players that always want to win. Practices with us are very intensive. No matter what happens we are always friends at the end of the day.

What was it like playing Milton Heckel? How much potential does he have?

He was my favorite teammate this season. He had a tough season with injuries and being sick. He had to change his game. It wasn´t easy for him as he had to change his game. He had many guards around him that needed the ball in their hands. He has a lot of potential and will go his way.

Who was the most improved on the team?

Aike Bemann. Last season he averaged something like 2,0ppg in the Regionalliga 2 and this season was close to a double double per game. He is a good defender and teammate. He will go his way.

You averaged 7/4/4 in 36 minutes. How would you summarize your season?

I wasn´t that happy with my season. I didn´t shoot the ball as well. We didn´t find a rhythm at the start and that effected my rhythm. My self-confidence went down. But I have no worries. I know what I can do.

You log many minutes. Don´t you feel like you should be scoring more?

I think I could of scored more. We had many changes in the team with players and we always had to get adjusted again. I don´t just take shots to help my scoring average. I´m a team player.

The most consistent part of your game is your defense as it stays consistent. How proud are you of that?

I´m very proud of my defense. I know our teams needs me to step up on defense.

Your free throw percentage continues to be a big work in progress. Is it just something that won´t get any better in your career?

That won´t get good anymore. It´s a mental thing. In practice I make 80% of my free throws. In games, I rather take three´s

You finished your 12 season in Limburg. What is the next step for you?

Limburg is my city. It would be hard to leave. I will always be a Limburger.

Who was your toughest opponent this season?

Herdie Lawrence of Haiterbach.

Will USA win the Gold this summer or will Germany be in their way?

If USA can handle Andi Obst then yes they will.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

Branden Maughmer (190-G-1999, college: Morehead St., agency: Helping Ballers) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Chillicothe, Ohio playing his rookie season with the Rostock Seawolves 2 team. He began his basketball career at / Chillicothe High School. He then played at Cedarville University (NCAA2) from 2018-2022 playing a total of 110 games. He added an extra year at Morehead State University (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 80.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a do or sie palyoff game against the Fraport Skyliners Juniors.

Thanks Branden for talking to germanhoop.com. Rostock 2 is down 1-0 to Rhondorf and face a do or die game. How excited are you for this game?

I’m super excited for it I feel like all players should want to play in big games and there’s no bigger game then elimination games because you have in the back of your head knowing it’s all over until next season if you lose.

Both teams were aggressive on the boards, but the poor three point shooting and many turnovers cost Rostock the win. Will these areas be corrected in game 2?

We’ve been getting lots of shots up so I feel it’s really just confidence when it comes to knocking down shots. As for turnovers, we have to be better at being strong with the ball and making harder passes so the defense has less time to react to get steals and keep them on their heels.

As a kid from Ohio what has it been like living in Rostock, Germany. Do you like the water? What has been your coolest off court experience as a rookie?

It’s been different. Not being able to read anything or talk to many people was a frustrating adjustment but as time went on I got more and more comfortable being here. The water is nice I just haven’t got to be on the beach much with it being cold. I went twice when I first got here, but then it started to get cooler fast. Coolest off the court experience was definitely the Hansa Rostock soccer game, the atmosphere both before and during the game was something I’ve never seen before. European Fútbol is something every American should experience once if they get the chance to travel to Europe.

What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was really when my dad left. He flew out here with me to get me settled in and once I walked him out the door it all hit me that I was in a country with nobody I’ve ever met before and everyone who I did already know was 6 hours behind back home.

You’re having a great rookie season averaging 19/5/4/2 and shooting 39% from outside. Despite the great season what has been the toughest adjustment to euro ball?

Thank you, my toughest adjustment would definitely have been some of footwork. Traveling calls are a bit different out here than back home in the States.

You had many memorable games this season, but how special was your 33 points in the 116-115 win over Rostock?

Yeah that game was something special no doubt. Obviously it was special due to it being the most points I’ve scored in my pro career thus far, but what made it really special was it all happening on a BBL court. My first time playing on a court that’s the level of where I’m trying to be soon competing at the highest level possible in Germany. So, for my first game on a future court I want to play on night in and night out, to have the most points I’ve scored and hit a game winner in double digits overtime was something I’ll remember for a long time and probably forever.

After having a stellar NCAA 2 career and NCAA career how big is the chip on your shoulder? How tough is it mentally dealing with having to play in the third division Pro B?

Every time I lace up I feel it’s always something to prove. To myself mainly, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t to prove everyone who didn’t give me the opportunity that they missed out on something special with me. Playing third division isn’t really in my head as me thinking I’m too good to be playing here. It’s my first year and I know I have to work my way up in this business and some guys start higher but I was just blessed enough to have an opportunity to show that I can compete and this is just the starting line to that.

What has it been like practicing with the first team Rostock. Do you feel like you could easily compete in the BBL?

I enjoyed it. Competing with guys that are a bit older and more experienced will only benefit me. Having to compete at a high level is something I haven’t done in a while in practice because my team is so young and inexperienced so I’m the old guy with experience for my team. Being able to go against guys my speed and my size or bigger is more challenging but that’s how you get better. I definitely know I can compete in the BBL easily. It’s not me thinking I’m better than what I am, it’s me knowing the work I put in and having that mindset as to where I know I can go do the same things on both sides of the ball in the BBL as I do in Pro B. I’ve played against high level talent my whole life and this isn’t any different than that, it’s just basketball for me.

How have you meshed with veteran Chris Carter? Has he been like a mentor for you?

Chris Carter is actually probably the guy I grew closest to on our BBL squad. He always is helpful and always the first guy to ask if I have questions or just give me advice without me even having to ask which I appreciate a ton because I know he’s a veteran out here in Germany and I want to listen to every little thing he has to say. He knows how this business works and has obviously been very successful in it so it’s hard not to want to listen to a guy who has success, experience, and also shares the same journey as being an African American living in Germany. He’s only spoken highly of me and helps me both on and off the court with showing me how things work on the court and what to look for being a PG and also helping me with connections for next season off the court. Definitely a mentor for me and I’m grateful I got the chance to meet him this early in my career.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the bill?

I don’t like comparing myself to anyone because I’m my own player, but if I had to say anyone I’d say Darius Garland.

You can fill the stat sheet with ease. What is your biggest strength on the court?

I feel my biggest strength is being a scoring PG. Being able to not only pass and make the right read but to also give my team the option of me creating my own shot only makes myself and the team harder to guard. The versatility of my game is something I think can change a game on any given night.

You’re a very good three point shooter. You eclipsed 40% your first 2 seasons in the NCAA. What do you believe is missing for you to become an elite shooter?

I’d say just staying consistent in working on my spot shooting. As a PG I don’t really get too many catch and shoot 3’s so just stay working on that this summer and doing it everyday will help keep my numbers up and stay even consistently up for the remainder of my pro career.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I feel I’m a solid defender. I have great hands and anticipation on where the ball will be before it even gets there. I want to become even more of an elite on the ball defender. I feel I’m already there I just need to lock in a little more mentally at times and say to myself “this dude in front of me isn’t scoring” to really say I’m an elite lockdown defender. There’s times when I get lazy in help side defense but that’s just effort not a lack of ability or skill set for me personally. Defense is just positioning and effort anybody can be a great defender.

On what areas of your game are you working on most so you can still improve your game?

Being patient. Definitely my biggest vision right now. Just working on my reads more and this is something Chris Carter even told me in BBL practice one day that I needed to slow down just a bit and really read what’s going on out there to average 2/3 more assists a game. Also, catch and shoot 3’s is something I’m looking forward to getting to become more and more consistent with. I also want to develop more of a back to the basket game. Like a Kyrie Irving being a PG at his size in the NBA is something different and something not every PG can do so adding that to my game will only be beneficial for my future.

You played at Cedarville (NCAA2) from 2018-2022. You were very consistent in your 4 years. Was consistency and versatility something you learned there?

Yes, most definitely because being able to be consistent night in and night out was why I had such solid numbers at my time being there. Staying in the gym and working everyday because every other team and player was doing that too, but getting in extra work is what kept me consistent even longer. Versatility is also something I gained from learning from coaches and trainers being there. Them expanding my games and showing me moves and reads as a PG is what got me this far and why I had such a great career at Cedarville.

You reached 2 G-MAC finals in 2020 and 2021. Was the loss to Malone in 2020 one of your toughest loses?

Yeah, both loses were tough. Making it all the way to the last game and just falling short is never a good feeling for anyone, but I gained a lot from both of those games that I’ll carry forever. Knowing how bad it felt to make it all the way and not come out on top gives me extra motivation to go all the way again and never again want to be the one who’s saying “what if I did this instead” to win the championship game.

How vital was head coach Pat Estepp in your early basketball development. How did he help you best?

That dude is the reason I’m even here. He took a chance on me that nobody else in the country took on me. My only offer out of high school was given to me by him and even he didn’t know I’d go as far as I have and have the success in the way I did, but he still took a chance on me anyway. He taught me so much about basketball, but even more so life. I still talk to him constantly like I never left there. I still go back every year to help work the camps I used to work when I was a player there. Our relationship is beyond basketball and that’s what I appreciate about him the most is how he cares about basketball of course, but he cares more about me being a man and how he’s more excited for me to become a husband and father one day more than just a great ball player. Love Coach like my own blood.

You added a year at Morehead State University (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 80.9%. How important was it in your basketball development for taking the extra year? What did you learn about yourself as a NCAA player?

Having that extra year was a cool experience. It didn’t go the way I wanted to on the court by any means, but it taught me so much and I’m glad I went through the adversity and came out of it. It taught me not to take this game for granted, ever. There’s highs and lows to it all. I learned things about myself that I wouldn’t have learned if everything went the way I wanted it to and I gained some brothers from the team that’ll probably be in my wedding one day so I’m grateful for it all. The good, the bad, and the ugly.

How did head coach Preston Spradlin give you that last push best and groom and prepare you for a professional career?

He gave me an opportunity to experience my dream of playing Division 1 college basketball and I appreciate him for that. Being able to take another year to develop my game and get stronger in the weight room helped me with my mentality this year in Pro B. Being coached by him I learned what it was like to be on a #1 team in the league. Something I didn’t get to experience at the Division 2 level. My defense also improved because he was big on defense as is any coach, but his way of teaching it is one of the best ways I’ve seen a coach teach defense to their players.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mark Freeman?

If we played 10 games of 1-1, I think we’d split. He’s a great player and former player of the year in the league we were in at Morehead State. He’s quick, smart, and a walking bucket. It’s not rocket science being able to tell that can hoop with the best of them. That’s my guy I’m excited to see where basketball takes him in life.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

Tyrese Halliburton

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jayvon Maughmer

Jacob Drees

Simon Roderick

Kollin Vanhorn

Demond Parker

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore.

LeBron, MJ, Kobe, Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?

I didn’t, but I know how good the original Coming To America was so I doubt it could’ve topped it.

Thanks Branden for the chat.

Every Possession on the basketball court is a valuable moment. That isn´t any different for young German Jervis Scheffs (192-G-2007). Recently at the Albert Schweitzer tournament where youth players around the globe from different countries battled for the title, Jervis Scheffs played for the German U-17 team and at the start of the fourth quarter nailed back to back baskets against China helping his team stay with them. He had had the opportunity to have an even more special moment at the end where he took the last shot with his bread and butter the mid distance, but it just fell a little short. “I thought I played pretty well against China. I was really frustrated that I missed that last shot. I really thought it was going to go in, but it came up a bit start. I´m a competitor and wanted that last shot. I was really calm, but unfortunately I missed. I noticed after this 1 point loss that I have to work on my weaknesses, but the game also gave me strength, because it showed me that I could play well at a high level”, stressed Jervis Scheffs. These are the moments that will continue to help him in his development to become the best player he can be and get as far as possible one day as a professional player. There was one special moment 7years ago, where he realized basketball would be his calling forever. “I began to play in the U-8 for BG Bonn. At that time, I wasn´t serious about it, but really just played for fun. My father felt that I had developed well in one year and urged me to keep playing. I tried out for the U-10 team, but didn´t make it. I had to play for the U-10 second team. Since that day where I didn´t make the first team, I got very serious about basketball. My motivation and ambition was so big, because I wanted to prove everyone that I was good enough. From that day, I wanted to be a pro one day and make the NBA”, warned Jervis Scheffs.

Jervis Scheffs who lists Hugo Gonzalez of Real Madrid as his toughest opponent he has ever faced in his career so far was born on October 7, 2007 in Bonn Germany. His dad is from West Africa and played basketball and his mom is half Polish and was a professional tennis player. He began to play tennis, but at age 8 noticed that it wasn´t as fun anymore and switched to basketball. His dad knew a lot about basketball and was his trainer. After playing for BG Bonn, he played JBBL (U-16) for the Telekom Baskets Bonn and then moved to the Ratiopharm Ulm program in 2022. Last season he was part of the Pro B team and played 2 NBBL games. He also show his game at the U-16 averaging 7.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 81.0% where he hit Finland for 17 points and played Adidas Next generation tournament averaging 4,8ppg, 1,3rpg and 1,3apg and scored 16 points against Greek team Panathinaikos. This season he made another jump in the Pro B averaging 13 minutes per game and averaging 5,4ppg. Being able to battle guys like Maxi Langenfeld and Philipp Hecker have helped his development. “I always want to play at the highest level. Being able to play against them daily really helps me. They are leaders on the team and that is where I want to be sometime. When you play against guys like that you improve”, stated Jervis Scheffs. He has shown at age 16 that he can paly with the best at the Pro B level and scored in double figures 3 times including 17 points against Leitershofen and 21 points in a massive win against top team Rhondorf on the road where he took over scoring 21 points. In the Regionalliga, he was a top player averaging 13,3ppg, 2,6rpg, and 1,8apg and scored in double figures in 7 games including 25 points against Haiterbach and 24 points against Mannheim. “The Regionalliga is a place young players can get valuable experience. It is a great league to take those first steps in a league where grown men play. The league is physical and faster than the youth leagues and a good place to get prepared for the next level Pro B”, warned Jervis Scheffs.

The guard who lists Milo Murray, Janne Muller, Tom Bruggeman, Oliver Kullamaee and Endurance Aiyamenkhue as his best teammates of all-time so far in his career had the great opportunity to play at the well known Adidas Next Generation Tournament with Ratiopharm Ulm and win it averaging 13,8ppg, 5,0rpg and 2,5apg. Only a week later he was a member of the German U-17 squad that played at the well known Albert Schweitzer tournament, but didn´t have as much fortune there losing all 5 games. Playing so much in a short while as well as all the other teams is tough on the body, but he knows he has to pay the price. “This season has been tough and a big challenge playing so much. I´m a bit tired and you need to learn to adjust to it. But that is what the life of a pro player will be like”, warned Jervis Scheffs. So what was it like laying at the ANGT and Albert Schweitzer tournament?. “There wasn´t so much difference. At the ANGT, you have high level young players who play with Euroleague teams. I saw many of these players also at the Albert Schweitzer tournament. The only real difference was that at the latter, guys are playing for their country and play very hard”, said Jervis Scheffs. It was difficult losing 5 games and winning none, but it was a tremendous learning experience for him. Germany was missing 6 vital players and they gave it all they had. “I was unhappy about it, but at the end of the day the other players were a year older than us. I learned to play at a high level and I know now exactly what I have to work on for the next time”, commented Jervis Scheffs. Germany and he lost by more than 60 points against Serbia, a game that he won´t forget so quickly. “We knew it would be a tough game. We went into the game focused and with a good attitude, but began with many turnovers. I learned after that game that I have to work on my body and athleticism and being able to make quicker decisions. They overran us at the end and had better chemistry”, remembered Jervis Scheffs. He had many fine teammates like huge talent Ivan Crnjac of Eintracht Frankfurt/Fraport Skyliners who reached the JBBL (U16) final last season. Could he become one of the top players of that generation? “I think so. He is a modern 4 player that can do it all. He can shoot, drive and handle the ball very well. He is really talented”, added Jervis Scheffs. He also had the fortune to be coached by legendary coach Dirk Bauerman who won 9 titles with Leverkusen in the 90´s and some more with Bamberg after. Bauermann has proven that he can work with young players and has a heart for helping them develop. “He is one of the most successful coaches and a very good one. Off the court he is really cool and always in contact with us. On the court, he is very ambitious and always wants to win. Even if he is a hard coach, he always defends us. He is a great coach”, warned Jervis Scheffs.

The Bonn native who lists Mike James, Sylvain Francisco, Kevin Punter and Maodo Lo on his Euro Mount Rushmore and Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum, Shai Gillgeous Alexander and Steph Curry on his NBA Mount Rushmore is a mix out of Jordan Poole and Jaylen Brown as his teammates say. “I would say I play like Kyle Lowery, a shifty combo guard. I look up to these players and one day I would like to mix out of Damien Lillard and Paul George”, warned Jervis Scheffs. His biggest strength is being able to create his own shot off the dribble and being able to hit that mid distance shot at a consistent rate. However he knows if he wants to continue to grow as a player, he will have to continue to improve his playmaking ability. “I´m 193 cm and coaches have told me that later, I could be a point guard. I understand that it will be vital to be a very good passer. I want to be a scoring thrceat, but always being able to have that pass to be dangerous”, warned Jervis Scheffs. So what kind of a defender is he now at age 16? “My defense is good, but not where I want it to be yet. I want to be an elite defender on and off the ball. I need to practice more off the ball. My defense is what could help me get to the next level”, stressed Jervis Scheffs. Currently he is working most on his shot and ball handling. He knows that being able to take care of the ball consistently will also help him become the best guard possible. So back to his NBA dream. Not only has it been there since he was 9 years old, but it was strengthed one more time since he arrived in Ulm in 2022. Only 3 years ago a certain Jeremy Sochan was playing in the Pro B for Orange Academy as a 17 year old, only a year older than Scheffs. It is no secret that his NBA motivation is even more boosted when you know what the current San Antonio Spur was able to do in only 2 years via Baylor (NCAA). “Jeremy Sochan is a big name in Ulm. It motivates me so much, because I was already a member of the Orange Academy team at age 15. I know that if he made, so can I. It motivates me so much. I´m confident I will make it. I know I will”, warned Jeremy Sochan. At the end of the day, it will be his hard work, belief and a little luck that could help him achieve his goal. It will be interesting where his journey will go in the next years. One thing is for sure, his self-confidence is already where it needs to be to reach the top of the mountain.

pic credit: Basketball Champions League

Sam Griesel (200-G/F-2000, college: Nebraska) is a 24 year old 200cm guard that is playing his rookie season for easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn. He began his basketball career at Lincoln East High school. He then played for North Dakota State University (NCAA) from 2018-2022 averaging 14.3ppg, 6.6rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.6% in his final season. He added an extra NCAA season with the University of Nebraska (NCAA) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 68.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough game 3 BCL loss to Peristeri.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn lost a tough best of 3 series to Greek team Peristeri. Is this one of those series that will be difficult to digest?

I´m the type of guy that can move on quickly. It´s a part of life. There are more important things in life than basketball. We really wanted to win this game. But we know that it´s still a long season with much more basketball to be played. We want a top 6 seed in the BBL. We can´t dwell on the loss anymore.

After a strong win at home, Bonn was crushed by 28 points in Greece. With what type of mindset did the team go in to game3?

We felt that we had played well in the first game. I think that maybe we went into game 2 too overconfident. They smacked us early in game 2 and we never found our rhythm. They overpowered us in both games with their physicality.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn began well with a 7-2 lead, but then let the guests on a 25-10 run to close out the first quarter. Did that run kind of put the guests on the right path?

Yes I think so. We had to chase them the rest of the game. They have really talented guards and you can´t take everything away from them. They hit some tough shots throughout the game. You have to give them props. We feel like we did all we could on the defensive end. All you can do is tip the cap to them.

In the second quarter Bonn scored 26 points, but also allowed 24 points. What was the biggest team defensive flaw on the night?

We did a pretty good job on the ball screens, but not on the closeouts and 1-1 defense. They did make some easy baskets, but also tough shots. We feel like we did all we could. That’s basketball.

Harold Frey was instrumental as he scored basket after basket in the second quarter. Does his three point shot overshadow his overall game too much?

Harold is one of the best shooters that I have played with. It was nice to see him hit big three pointers. But he is so much more than just a great shooter. He is one of our main creators and such a great passer. I really enjoy playing with him.

In the third quarter Peristeri managed the lead well, but Bonn still had enough energy for a comeback in the fourth quarter. What adjustments did the team make?

We did a really good job feeding off our crowd´s energy. We had had a tough game against BG Goettingen on Sunday and it wasn´t easy coming back 2 days later to play a big BCL game. We obviously came into the game with a lot of adrenaline, but the crowd really helped us. We came together as a group and have no regrets. We left it all on the floor.

But in crunch-time Peristeri was able to go on a 9-2 run. How vital was their aggressiveness and getting to the FT line. Did that win them the game?

Yes for sure. We wanted to speed up the game while chasing the lead. It makes it difficult coming back when they got to the free throw line so much and gave them extra opportunities to make points. Their scoring stopped our flow. We couldn´t stop them getting to the free throw line and when we did, they made tough shots.

The scoring with Bonn was balanced pretty well, but was a third main scorer missing on this night?

I think a few times yes. We feel like we have a very talented and balanced team where 3-4 guys can score a lot on any given night. We can´t dwell if we had a good or bad game, but just move on.

The 3 point shooting was terrible in game 2 and 3. How aware is the team that it has to find back to it´s groove as the fight for the last playoff spot continues?

We are Confident in our shots and sometimes they just don´t go in. We are aware that our shots didn´t fall in game 2 or game 3, but that´s not going to scare us away from taking them an d being confident in them.

Joe Ragland was a great floor general in the last 2 games averaging 21 points per game. What was so difficult in slowing him down?

He obviously has a lot of experience. His quickness stood out. He is still very quick for his age and at a different level. He has the ability to move left or right very well. He also did a great job being able to finish well with both hands.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn lost in the Quarterfinals of the BCL. How would you summarize the BCL season?

We think that we belonged in the Final 4. We have enough talent. But you can´t forget that this was a new team and there was pressure on us coming from last season´s success. If I look back to how we were last August to now, we have grown so much as a team. I feel like our BCL season was successful and one that we can look back with joy.

What did you learn from this series that will help you and the club move forward for the rest of the season?

I think what I learned most is that you have to really be able to bring physicality in these big games. We definitely didn´t bring it in game 2 and game 3. The physicality becomes so important in big games. You have to bring it from the jump to set the tone and we didn´t do that.

Thanks Sam for the chat.

Shawn Scott (185-G-1996, college: SW Christian) is a 28 year old 185cm guard playing his third professional season and first with BG Hagen. Last season he split time with TVO Biggesee / TV Jahn Lindhorst (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 31.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 6.1apg, 3.6spg, 2FGP: 56.2%, 3FGP: 30.4%, FT: 77.6%, in Jan.’23 moved to BG 2000 Berlin (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 14.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 64.4%. He began his career at Jenks High School and then played 3 seasons at Southwestern Christian University. He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats Shawn on winning the playoff series against Hamm. What did it feel like playing 2 big playoff games with in 48 hours?

Thank you. I hadn’t played games that close apart in maybe a year so I forgot how mentally prepared and focused you have to be especially after losing one game and going into a do or die one day later.

BG Hagen lost a close game 2 to BG Hagen 82-78. I guess that was a perfect example that despite being the better team in the majority of the stats, you can still lose.

Yeah I mean we knew exactly where we lost the game and we completely choked at the end of the game.

I can imagine the crunch-time is something that didn´t leave your mind until tip off on Sunday? What preparations could the team make within 48 hours?

Right after that game 2 loss I wasn’t able to sleep hardly at all and I was just ready to play asap. We had a short meeting as a team and laid everything out on the table and kept it real with each other that we have got play better together and did some shooting. As soon as we lost I knew everyone was already locked in and ready for the next game.

BG Hagen came back in the do or die game and whipped Hamm 92-65. How proud were you of your team? It was the least amount of points the team gave up since the Lowen game. How much motivation did the Hamm game on Jan 26 give you where you gave up 64 points?

To bounce back like that with a deserving win shows the type of team we have and how we’re able to come back within 48 hours with a dog mentality and play like we did. I couldn’t be more proud of the team and how we dominated the game from start to finish. Defense was the key and we asserted dominance defensively. We had no other game plan but to play defense the right way.

Was this do or die game one of those moments where the will and focus was able to carry the team to the win?

Most definitely. You could feel the seriousness in the gym from us that we meant nothing but business and we didn’t come here to play a close game. We wanted to win the game at half time and we never let up off the gas even a little bit.

How vital was it keeping Gilbert Gyamfi to 17 points average in his last 2 games? What adjustments did the team make on him?

We knew after his 41 point game in the first one that we couldn’t let him be that comfortable again. Everyone who guarded him kept him under pressure and contained at all times and didn’t really give him a chance to breathe. He was going to have to earn every single bucket and our guys couldn’t have done a better job really.

You left it all out on the court with 41 points. Did you have that mamba feeling going in?

I think I had never been more locked in for a game than this one. I knew what was on the line being that it was a do or die game and I refused to let us go out like this. No team practiced as hard as us and we gave Hamm hope after the game 2 loss and I just was determined to do everything on both sides of the floor to make sure we won the game.

Can you top your play in the next playoff round?

Honestly I’m not thinking about my play too much. In the playoffs, it’s about the team who sticks together through the worst and best times and does their part to win games. As long as I leave everything on the court and do my job and we win, I’m not worried about anything else.

Who do you play next and what will be key in winning?

We play DTV Köln next and the key will again be defense and being very disciplined. This team is very smart and has probably the best chemistry in the league which is the most dangerous so we really will have to focus on what game plan the coaches have for us and being able to execute it. It’s going to be a dog fight but we’re ready for it all.

Thanks Shawn for the chat.

Pic credit: Basketball Champions League

Elijah Mitrou-Long (185-PG-1996, college: UNLV) is a 27 year old 185cm guard from Ontario, Canada that is playing his fourth professional season and first with Peristeri BWin Athens (Greece-GBL). He also has played with other Greek teams AS Apollon Patras, PAOK Thessaloniki and Aris. He also played with Levski Sofia (Bulgaria-NBL) and the Niagara River Lions (CEBL). He played at 3 NCAA schools with Mount St Mary´s University, the University of Texas and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. He spoke to after Peristeri won a do or die game on the road against the Telekom Baskets Bonn.

Congrats Elijah on reaching the Basketball Champions League Final 4. How excited do you feel right now? What does this BCL Final 4 achievement mean to the organization? Only 5 years ago it was still in the Greek second division?

This means a lot but we haven’t done anything yet. We got 1 game at a time. But we are blessed and grateful for the advance in the BCL

Despite the tough game 1 loss in Bonn how was the mood of the team? Did you sense like you guys were still on a mission?

Yes we are always on a mission to be better until the season is over. No matter who we play. It is about us and who we are when we come to play it is not about anyone else.

After making a statement in game 2 with a 28 point win at home, you came back to Bonn and won. Did you guys just want it more?

Yes we wanted it more but Bonn is a respectful club and organization that is why we couldn’t come ready or else we wouldn’t be ready for the game. We didn’t care about the game at home because we knew that they are a good team.

despite down 7-2 in the first quarter you came back with a 25-10 run to lead by 10 points. How confident were you after 10 minutes that no matter what happened, you weren´t going to lose this game?

We are confident in the work we put in and the position we put ourselves in in the BCL. We need to just worry about ourselves and I didn’t know the end result about losing or wining but I know we were ready for a battle from Bonn.

In the second quarter the Telekom Baskets Bonn came back with 26 points. Especially Harold Frey was hard to stop with 9 points. What did Peristeri get away from on the defensive end?

Defense is the key to everything and weathering the storm of Bonn.

In the second half you did a good job as a team to manage the lead, but in the fourth quarter Bonn came back to trail only by 3 points. What was key to staying cool in a hostel environment?

We made the right plays down the stretch of the game and believed in the work you put in and also kept the Faith of God that everything will workout

In the end what was key for 40 minutes for the win? Was it the poor 2 point shooting of Bonn at 36% and the good Peristeri defense that got you the win?

The key was defense and staying calm when things got crazy. Yes, we wanted them to take tough 2’s and run them off the line.

As usual Joe Ragland was a real floor general leading the way with 21 points. What do you appreciate most about his play?

He is a true PG. Veteran who had been in every situation before. He knows how to control things and we have confidence in his abilities

You had a very solid game with 15 points in 21 minutes. What is like playing for a legend in ex point guard Vasilis Spanoulis?

It’s great experience playing for one of the greatest players to ever do it in this game. To see him want more than he has mostly everything is inspiring to us. Have to listen to what he says he knows what he knows, his knowledge is key.

You next will play the winner of Tofas-Tenerife. Do you have a favorite that you would like to have in the semi´s?

We don’t care who we play. They are both great programs but at this point it’s about us an nobody else.

Thanks Elijah for the chat.

Ivan Crnjac (201-F-2007) is a 17 year old 201cm forward currently averaging 17,2ppg, 6,3rpg and 1,2apg in the NBBL (U-19) and has played 10 Pro B games averaging 4,2ppg and 1,9rpg. He helped the Fraport Skyliners win the B League title at the U-18 International Cup in Tokyo, Japan. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 1 week experience at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament

You recently played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament. What kind of an experience was that for you?

It was a cool experience being able to be with the youth national team again and play against some of the best players in the world. It isn´t often that there is a youth international tournament in Germany. It was an honor for me to play there.

The German U-17 team went 0-5. Was the team better than it´s record?

I feel that yes we were better than our record. We had very young players and our chemistry wasn´t good simply because we had little time to prepare. For many guys this was the first national team experience.

Germany lost to Serbia by 65 points. What did you learn from the loss?

It was incredible to see that despite being only a year older than us, just how dominant the Serbian players were. After every loss we had, our mindset went down. We hit nothing that day. Serbia was at another level with their physicality, conditioning and mentality.

The game against China was very exciting. Germany lost by 1 point. How tough was it to digest this loss?

We could of beat them. It was a pity that I got hurt in the fourth quarter and missed the last 7 minutes. We made tough baskets in the fourth quarter and then lost concentration. It was just a dumb loss.

How special of a player is Jervis Scheffs? How big is his ambition?

He is very ambitious. He does a super job being able to create for himself. He is probably more a 2 than a 1. He competes very hard.

He said you could become one of the top players of the generation. How far could he go with his potential?

He also belongs to the top of the generation. I think we have like 6-7 guys that could be one of the top players of the generation. Each guy has a different role. Not every guy can be that guy.

There were so many talented players on the German U-17 team this time. Which player impressed you the most?

I think that Martin Petric impressed me the most. He has a lot of confidence and is already an adult player for his age. He has all the tools to become a great player. He showed how good he was during AST.

How content were you with your game? You had difficulty with your shooting percentage.

The first 2 games were my best scoring games during AST. However I didn´t have a good shooting week. Since the Rhondorf game, I had had an off shooting week. My shot didn´t fall that week. I drove well and represented myself well on defense. I had blocks. I would think that I left a lasting impression on defense. It would have been nice if my shot had fallen.

On what areas do you have to improve your game so you will be better the next time against older players?

I need to work on my conditioning and explosiveness. I don´t feel like I´m quick enough. I also need a more consistent shot.

How important was head coach Dirk Bauermann for your development during the week?

He is a very good coach. He gave us good tips on offense and defense. He told me that he likes my fighting mentality. He pushed me very hard to be more of a hustler on the court.

Who was the toughest player that you faced during the AST?

The toughest player I faced was a few days before AST in a test game against Australia. His name is Roman Siulepa. He was very quick and physical. He finished well and was an energizer. He was tough to defend and a real complete player.

Thanks Ivan for the chat.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and David Teague in 2010

David Teague (196-G-1983, college: Purdue) is a former professional player who had a stellar career from 2007-2014 playing in countries like Greece, France, Germany, Brazil, Italy, Argentina, Uruguay and Columbia. The Indiana native played at Purdue (NCAA) from 2002-2007 playing a total of 121 games and averaged 14,0ppg and 5,0rpg in his last 2 years. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the fantastic 2024 Purdue run to the NCAA final.

Thanks David for talking to germanmhoops.com. You have been retired as a pro player for a decade. You played at Purdue (NCAA) from 2002-2007. How has the game changed since when you played? How would a Purdue team from 2007 do in today´s game?

The game is more open and fast-paced than when I last played in 2007. I think our Purdue team would fair well in today’s game because we were already a smaller team with players being able to play multiple positions.

Have you stayed a diehard Purdue fan since you left in 2007?

Yeah man. Not just Purdue University, but both of my coaches in Gene Keady and Matt Painter, have always created a family-type atmosphere. So once a Boiler always a Boiler.

With what kind of a feeling did you go into the final playing against the defending champs UConn?

I went into that game with a lot of confidence for my guys because I felt we had the secret weapon plus the complimentary pieces to get it done.

Where did you watch the game? At home or in a bar or with friends?

I watched it at home with my wife and my youngest son.

Did you have any contact with former players leading up to the final?

Yeah I spoke to Zach Edey and Mason Gillis and told those guys just to continue to play hard, go through Zach, but stay confident.

Purdue lost 75-60. It seemed like one of those games where UConn was just a little better from start to finish. How do you summarize the end result?

Yeah UConn was just the better team. Their guys performed in their roles and our guys didn’t, besides Zach.

Zach Edey was a 1 man wrecking crew with 37 points and 10 rebounds. He had a great game but how much were those extra scorers missing?

They were missing tremendously. That was the difference in the game. If Braden scores his usual 14-15 points and Fletcher is able to chip in at least 10-12, we win easily.

Edey was a beast dominating every game at March madness and even had 40 points against Tennessee. Would Purdue have had any chance without him?

No way they have a chance without him.

You saw the championship game. How special is Zach Edey. How much stock did his game give him in the NBA Draft. How high could he go now?

I think his stock is high. His success in the NBA depends on the team he’s drafted to. Because so many teams play a smaller/stretch type of style, he has to go to the right situation.

Despite the loss how proud are you of being an ex Boliermaker?

I’m very proud of those guys. I love the way they dedicated themselves since last season’s first round exit. Zach returning to accomplish something special for our university and for his group of guys, shows his character. They are a special group!!

Head coach Matt Painter has been there since 2005. I can imagine he won´t hang it up until he gets that title?

I’m not sure if a title is Coach’s determining factor. I know for sure it’s an accomplishment that he wants to achieve, but I don’t think he’s ever going to “overstay” his coaching position just to win a title.

Matt Painter is such a special coach that has reached the NCAA tournament 15 times and won 5 conference titles. How special of a coach is he?

He’s very special. I think what sets him apart from most other coaches is the fact that he too was a player, a point guard at that, on championship teams. And with All-Americans like Big Dog. So he understands from a player’s perspective and he’s firm on the natural development of guys.

You played for Matt Painter when he arrived in 2005. How has he developed as a coach?

He’s developed in the sense of more younger players and even other coaches are realizing his method to success and that’s development and commitment. Coach isn’t and has never really been interested in the “1-and-dones”. I think he’s attracting and will continue to attract the best local talent.

How special is a guy like Braden Smith? He has 2 more years to go.

He’s the best PG in the country in my opinion, and of course I’m biased lol. But I do think he’s easily a top 5 PG this PAST YEAR, so I definitely think he will be at least top 3 if not the #1 best PG in the country. I think he’s going to be able to display more of his scoring and offensive abilities with Zach gone. He still has TKR that is also going to develop tremendously without the presence of Zach.

Where will the journey of the Boilmakers go in the next years. They lose Edy, Jones and Gillis to graduation.

I think they will still be at the top of the Big Ten conference. They still have players like the 7 footer, TKR, Caleb Furst, and the youngsters Colvin and Heid returning with Braden and Fletcher. Plus Paint will have a good class of guys coming in to continue to feed the system of development!

Thanks David for the chat.

With the regular season winding down in the Pro A, there was a battle going on between position 2-6 as only 1 game separated those teams. For the Fraport Skyliners, you can´t win them all at home in crunch-time as a few months ago they beat Koblenz in the last seconds with a game winner and last weekend fell apart in crunch-time getting plastered by 3 straight three´s from Jena. Their next opponent the Dresden Titans were focused and hungry because they were fighting for that last playoff spot. They had been playing inspired basketball lately having won 7 of their last 8 games. The Fraport Skyliners had won 5 of their last 7 games, but you still seemed to have this feeling that they weren´t consistent enough going into the playoffs. Frankfurt had to be wide awake against a high scoring machine and had to be ready to give their A game on the defensive end. On a very mild early spring day, the Fraport Skyliners showed once again why they are a potent home team in crunch-time as they stuck together as a team and got a key Booker Coplin (191-G-1997, college: Augsburg, agency: BIG) basket late to seal the win and 34th of the season and regain second place again in the standings. “We moved the ball well and shot the ball well today. I don´t think we defended as well today. We usually can lock up teams better. We let them move the ball too much and get shots. We gave a good team effort and got the needed stops when we needed to”, stressed Fraport Skyliner guard Booker Coplin. The Dresden Titans needed a win badly, but it was simply one of those days where shots didn´t fall the way they usually do. They had made some massive shots during the game, but at the end met Frankfurt´s defense at their best. “I felt we played well and fought the whole game. Frankfurt is a really good team. They had long arms and played in the gaps. I felt we had good looks. It was just one of those days. Sometimes you shoot 50% and other days 30%”, stressed Dresden Titan guard Grant Teichmann.

Booker Coplin from outside

3,480 fans came to witness the battle and were lucky to see 2023 World champion German head coach Gordon Herbert and ex Skyliner legend Pascal Roller watch the game. The Dresden Titans had a hot start taking the rapid 9-4 lead as they got their 3 point ball flying as Canadian Tanner Graham and Daniel Kirchner connected. Frankfurt got hoops inside by 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke and Minnesota native Booker Coplin. But Frankfurt reacted well and started their own run of 10-2 to take the 14-11 lead. Frankfurt also showed that at 36%, they can connect from outside just as well as the leagues best team Dresden as Coplin and ex Carleton great Aiden Warnholtz scored. The game was played at a fast pace and Frankfurt kept the slim lead as their bench stepped up as ex Indiana State (NCAA) guard Cameron Henry scored inside and ex South Alabama (NCAA) center Ife Ajayi scored on transition getting the pretty shovel pass from Florida native Kevin McClain as Frankfurt led 19-15. “Kevin is a great playmaker and does it all. It is fun to play with him and he brings everybody´s game up. He needs to keep his confidence up. When his playing well, he is really dangerous”, stated Booker Coplin. After a Grant Teichmann basket, Frankfurt kept up the pressure getting a three pointer from McClain and lay in from Henry for the slim 24-21 advantage after 10 minutes. “Playing that fast tempo was good for us. It may not look comfortable for us, but it will help us in the playoffs”, commented Booker Coplin. The Fraport Skyliners shot 71% from the field and 100% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 35% from the field and 23% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 1 turnover.

Tanner Graham at the FT line

In the second quarter the Fraport Skyliners continued to control the game, but couldn´t totally shake the Dresden Titans having only the 7 point lead at the break. The Fraport Skyliners began with a bang going on a 7-0 run as their bench continued to shine as Ife Ajayi continued to be efficient and executed scoring 5 points and the Swiss army knife Cameron Henry remained aggressive scoring with a lay in for the 32-21 lead. High pressure and good 1-1 defense helped Frankfurt´s offense go on the run. High energy guards Koen Sapwell who hails from Australia and ex Belmont (NCAA) guard Grayson Murphy made back to back baskets to trail Frankfurt only 32-25. After Henry free throws, Dresden unleashed another 4-0 run as Sapwell made a turn around shot and Tanner Graham who once had 10 steals in a college game in Canada made a lay in, but Frankfurt still led 36-29. The Dresden problem on this night was that they didn´t play defense with a high intensity as Frankfurt could always keep their lead as Warnholtz made a lay in for the 38-29 advantage. Dresden kept fighting and as usual were guided by their three ball at moments as they cruised on a 8-3 run late as Kirchner and Arne Wendler who played 91 Pro B games scored as Frankfurt led only 42-39. But Dresden just couldn´t get over the hump as Frankfurt usually had an answer. Canadian David Muenkat got hot scoring Frankfurt´s last 5 points of the first half with a three pointer and buzzer beater lay in as Frankfurt led 47-40. “We have so much talent and depth that anyone can step up. It really helps us when our second unit plays well and can stretch the lead. This helps wear down teams. We will need it in the playoffs”, expressed Booker Coplin. The Fraport Skyliners shot 60% from the field and 56% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 43% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Jordan Samare

In the third quarter both teams buckled down more on defense, but the Fraport Skyliners still had their nose ahead leading by 4 points. Frankfurt got a massive dunk right on the first possession from David Meunkat on the coast to coast sprint. “He is pretty athletic. He is always flying around. He needs that highlight reel. He deserves it”, stated Booker Coplin. The Dresden Titans didn´t let that authority dunk get to them as Tennessee native Grayson Murphy was a one man wrecking crew scoring 8 unanswered points including 2 wild step back three´s and a lay in as they trailed only 49-46. Murphy showed that he couldn´t only score buckets, but was the real work horse of the team. He produced a triple double in the NCAA against Tennessee Martin and this season was on a quadruple pace against Nurnberg. It wasn´t any different this game as his stat line after 40 minutes was 11/10/8/5. The run continued as Wendler made a lay in and Murphy supplied the pretty no look pass as Dresden stole the lead back again leading 50-49. Ex Artland Dragon Jacob Knauf answered with a trey, but Frankfurt´s lead was short lived as Tanner Graham responded from the parking lot for the 53-52 Dresden advantage. Sapwell took that Graham energy and made another off balance shot as Frankfurt trailed 55-52. However once again it was the Frankfurt bench that stepped up as Henry and Ajayi once again made big shots. Henry scored on the drive and Ajayi who compares his game to Zion Willamson made a tip in and three pointer at the buzzer for the 59-55 Frankfurt lead. “The Pro A has many great hoopers. If you let a guy like Murphy get going then he can be dangerous. When he gets confident then he can look like an allstar. We have to do a better job stopping them as a team”, said Booker Coplin. “Grayson willed us at the start to keep us in the game and soon after we found our rhythm. We played good basketball after that”, commented Grant Teichmann. The Fraport Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 39% from the parking lot and had 34 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 41% from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Grayson Murphy from downtown

In the fourth quarter it looked like the Fraport Skyliners would run away with the game early, but the Dresden Titans had enough gas left and made a comeback and let the game go down to the wire. Sapwell and Warnholtz began the last quarter with back to back three´s. Sapwell then added a lay in and Dresden trailed only 62-60. However the Fraport Skyliners then showed just how dangerous their offense can be as they smoked Dresden for 9 straight points with 2 three´s by Knauf and one by Warnholtz as Frankfurt led 71-60. “We began well. When we find our rhythm, we can be very dangerous and it´s tough to defend. When Warnholtz gets going, he can hurt anybody”, warned Booker Coplin. However Dresden was never out as they just chipped away at the Frankfurt lead. A Georg Voigtmann tip in and 3 Daniel Kirchner free throws began the comeback as Dresden trailed 73-65. Tanner Graham was instrumental in the comeback as he hit 2 key three´s and free throws. A Murphy free throw dead locked the game at 75-75. Frankfurt´s offense wasn´t particular clever in this phase as they made hasty decisions and didn´t take good shots allowing a team that always hung around to be there at the last minute. However Frankfurt just made the big play, shot and free throws to secure the win. Knauf made a huge block which led to the Coplin go ahead finger tip roll in and 77-75 lead. “My three pointer has been off lately, but it´s nice being able to get to the hoop with the drive. I had a good matchup and when I can get both feet into the paint, good things happen”, warned Booker Coplin. “In crunch time anything can happen. The difference was that Frankfurt hit tough shots and we didn´t. Graham had a good look and just didn´t fall”, said Grant Teichmann. Henry iced the win with free throws. The Fraport Skyliners were led by Cameron Henry with 15 points. Ife Ajayi added 14 points and Aiden Warnholtz and David Muenkat had 11 points a piece while the Dresden Titans were led by Tanner Graham with 15 points while Koen Sapwell had 13 points. The Fraport Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 37% from outside and had 45 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dresden Titans shot 37% from the field and 28% from outside and had 40 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

It was the best time of the year in the Pro B as it was finally time for the playoffs and the chance for 16 teams to battle for the crown and the possible climb up a league to the Pro A. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors Juniors secured the home court advantage in the playoffs thanks to a surprising loss of Erfurt to struggling team wiha Panthers, otherwise they wouldn´t have been in this position as Coburg had won their game and even jumped up the standings to position 3. However Frankfurt would have no cake walk as they met SC Rist Wedel. This was a battle of the farm teams of easyCredit BBL team Hamburg and Pro A team Fraport Skyliners. Wedel came into the playoffs playing great basketball having won 6 of their last 7 games while the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had won 3 of their last 4 games and totally destroyed Orange Academy on the last game day. On a particular very warm early spring day the Fraport Skyliners Juniors controlled the game for the most part, but got a little sloppy at the end allowing SC Rist Wedel to hurl a late come back run, but they ran out of gas as Frankfurt prevailed 88-82. “We did a good job in the game beating their press. We had good control of the game for 35 of the 40 minutes. We got a little wild at the end, but overal it was a good team performance. We prepared ourselves well for them”, stressed Fraport Skyliner junior Dusan Nikolic. SC Rist Wedel did a great job never losing focus and just fought for the entire 40 minutes, but in the end just couldn´t get over the hump. “We started slow. We allowed their offense to get comfortable. We didn´t apply enough defensive pressure for 40 minutes. They were a good shooting team. We have to start with more fire”, stressed SC Rist Wedel forward Camron Reese.

Trevian Bell from outside

Both teams found their offensive rhythm quickly as the guests got 5 rapid points from Swedish forward Daniel Johansson and a trey from German Linus Hoffmann to lead 12-6 while the Fraport Skyliners found to their three ball early as Germans Jordan Samare and Nils Leonhardt connected. Samare even entertained the fans with a bank shot. “I don´t know if he practices those, but he definitely called it”, smiled Dusan Nikolic. SC Rist Wedel did a fine job displaying team ball while Frankfurt didn´t have the needed defensive intensity early. Frankfurt just continued to heave three´s and found themselves on a 12-3 run to retake the 18-15 advantage. In the three ball of terror, Frankfurt was aided by Illinois native Trevian Bell (201-G/F, college: Lewis) who scored twice while Felix Hecker and Alvin Oniya also connected. After a runner by California native Cameron Reese who played at Akron (NCAA), the raining of three´s continued for Frankfurt as 2017 JBBL finalist Calvin Schaum scored as did Bell again who launched a deep in your face three. “That was a crazy shot, but we know he can make those. I have a lot of respect for him. He is a great player”, added Dusan Nikolic. After 10 minutes the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had the slim 24-21 lead. Frankfurt shot 47% from the field and 57% from outside including a hard to believe 0% from the two point range and had 7 rebounds and 3 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 57% from the field and 50% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 3 turnovers. “We practiced shooting a lot of three´s the last week. They were all confidence shots. We had that mind set that every three would go in”, stressed Dusan Nikolic.

Camron Reese at the FT line

In the second quarter there were three runs as the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had 2 and the guests one as they trailed by 10 points at the break. Frankfurt played top defense in the first 4 minutes halting the first 7 possessions in a row by SC Rist Wedel. Frankfurt upped their intensity and made great hustle plays stifling Wedel. The guests defended ok as Frankfurt couldn´t get more than 6 points in this phase as ex 2017 NBBL MVP Felix Hecker had a trey and Onyia added a lay in for the 30-23 advantage. However that basketball is a game of runs is no secret as the guests punched Frankfurt back with a timely 7-0 run as Johansson added 5 points again as he was always in attack mode and Reese who was a beast on the glass made a tap in to trail 32-30. But the tide changed again as Frankfurt showed their whole offensive spectrum closing out the second quarter with a lethal 11-3 run to lead 43-33 at half-time. In the run Frankfurt got 5 points from Trevian Bell who continued to lead Frankfurt´s offense with his dangerous play while Calvin Schaum and Felix Hecker also added buckets in the Frankfurt attack. Frankfurt supplied aggressive defensive pressure again forcing Camron Reese to consecutive turnovers and did a fine job getting in passing lanes. “We defended a lot better allowing only 12 points. We lifted our physicality and played hard on every possession on defense. In offense we continued to execute well and were able to build our lead”, stated Dusan Nikolic. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 53% from the three point line and had 13 rebounds and 8 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 40% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Calvin Schaum at the FT line

In the third quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors did a great job managing their lead and never allowed SC Rist Wedel to get closer than 6 points. Frankfurt got early production from Nolan Adekunle who supplied 2 baskets while Wedel got super support from young German Al-Fayed Alegbe from the bench as he scored 5 points, but they couldn´t get any closer trailing 50-42. Bell continued to be aggressive and scored while SC Rist Wedel received back to back baskets from ex Hanau guard Niklas Krause as Frankfurt led 54-48, but couldn´t totally shake the guests. How often had the Fraport Skyliners Juniors demonstrated this season that they have so many scoring options including the young guns like Dusan Nikolic who was extra motivated in the second half scoring 6 points in 2 minutes giving his team the 63-50 lead. “I was aggressive and just tried to use my chance as best as possible. I just always try to play my game and make the most out of it. I was frustrated after having 0 points in the first half, so I came out in the second half with the attitude that I wanted to show everyone I could help”, added Dusan Nikolic. Frankfurt closed out the third quarter strong getting some more production from their talented youth as Ivan Crnjac hit a trey and Oniya and Adekunle hit free throws to lead 69-55. “We can all score on this team. We have enough weapons and are very versatile. We continued to be physical on defense. We didn´t rebound as well. Reese was tough to control on the boards”, said Dusan Nikolic. “They have a lot of offensive weapons. Plus they had good size. We are very young and they were difficult to defend”, said Camron Reese. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 50% from the parking lot and had 16 rebounds and 10 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 45% from the field and 33% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 17 turnovers.

Daniel Johansson with the lay in

In the fourth quarter the Fraport Skyliners Juniors had good control of the game leading by as much as 17 points, but then got sloppy in the last minutes allowing Wedel to cut the lead down to 6 points to make it interesting again. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors offense continued to execute well getting some more vital baskets from their 2 top NBBL (U-19) players Ivan Crnjac who scored on transition while Dusan Nikolic made a dunk on transition. The Frankfurt aggressive defense and super on ball pressure made Wedel uneasy all night long and forced them too many turnovers. Jordan Samare added a second three point bank shot for the very comfortable 78-61 advantage. It looked like Frankfurt would easily glide into the sunset with the win as they continued to execute in fine fashion as Nolan Adekunle scored 2 tough off balance shots and Jordan Samare added a massive 2 handed jam for the 85-73 advantage. “That was a great dunk. I think that could have been his best dunk this season”, stressed Dusan Nikolic. The minutes were winding down, but SC Rist Wedel still had some gas left as they somehow kept clawing back and went on a 11-2 run to trail Frankfurt 87-82 with a minute to go. In the run the guests got superb help from Alegbe who added 5 points as well as 3 points from 17 year old German Darren Egbe as well as a lay in from Krause. However time was running out and Frankfurt closed out the game with 2 clutch steals by Hecker and Bell. “We were nervous at the end. We thought the game was over. We made dumb turnovers to let them come back. We made 2 big steals at the end to seal the win”, stressed Dusan Nikolic. “We never gave up. We had some games this season go down to the wire. We never roll over. We need to find a way to finish a game well”, stressed Camron Reese. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors were led by Trevian bell with 18 points. Nolan Adekunle added 16 points and Jordan Samare 12 points while SC Rist Wedel was led by Linus Hoffmann with 17 points while Camron Reese also had 17 points and 13 boards. The Fraport Skyliners Juniors shot 55% from the field and 44% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 18 turnovers while SC Rist Wedel shot 45% from the field and 29% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 21 turnovers.