baseball

It Was A Very Special Moment For Lucas Mayer(Kirchheim) To Beat Giessen And Reach The Pro A Final In His Hometown

Pic credit: Nina Sander

Lucas Mayer (185-PG-1999) is a 26 year old 185cm guard playing his second season with Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim and helped lead them into the Pro A final. He began his basketball career with the VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (2.Regionalliga) and also played with the ROTH Energie Basketball-Akademie Giessen (NBBL). He then played 2 seasons with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. He then played a season with BG Hessing Leitershofen (ProB) making his Pro B break through averaging 15.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 74.8%. In 2023-2024, he made his pro A break through with the Gartenzaun24 Baskets Paderborn (ProA) averaging 11.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.8apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 62.7%. He joined the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (ProA) in 2024-2025 and averaged 10.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 73.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after defeating Giessen 89-85 in game 4 and reaching the Pro A final.

Thanks Lucas for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 89-85 win in game 4 against Giessen and reaching the Pro A final. How good did it feel last night when the buzzer sounded?

I was relieved when the buzzer sounded. I was really very proud of the team especially after our slow start into the season and our ups and downs that we had had. It was a very special feeling winning in my home town.

You have witnessed the incredible development of the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim the last 2 years. If someone had told you in August 2025 that the team would reach the Pro A final what would you have said?

That is a crazy statement. We really went through a lot. Last season we just missed reaching the playoffs. Our goal this season was to reach the playoffs and win the first round cup game. I mean the competition level is very high in the Pro A. We don´t have the biggest budget and there were many teams with the goal of reaching the playoffs and with higher budgets. I would have thought ok there is a possibility of reaching the final, but I would of seen it more as unrealistic.

Does this big success still have a different taste simply because the team will remain in the Pro A?

No it doesn´t. At the end of the day we are all competitors and want to win no matter what the circumstances might be. You never know how many chances like this will happen in a career. Our will to win the Pro A title is huge

What was the main focus of the team coming to Giessen? How big was the self confidence having already won there in game 2?

Yes we had a lot of self confidence coming to game 4. We were swept badly in the regular season, but it was under different circumstances. We developed very well as a team during the regular season and reached the playoffs. That built a lot of character. Beating Gottingen in the playoffs also built character. We had a lot of respect for Giessen and knew it would be difficult, but we had that special will to win.

Giessen began well leading 7-2. Kirchheim didn´t seem shocked. Does that calmness of Igor Perovic carry over to the team?

Yes he does. We did a good job as team all season long whenever we faced adversary to never get down on ourselves. Even when we began 1-5, we never got down. People were already writing us off there. We always knew that we had potential as a team and always trusted the game plan of Igor.

Kirchheim then responded with a 11-0 run. Kirchheim then hit three pointers well. What was key in that 11-0 run for the turnaround? Did somebody on the court or bench have the right words after the slow start?

We had a clear game plan. We predicted that Giessen would play zone and we were ready for it. We did a good job creating shots and took them with a lot of confidence. There wasn´t really anyone that used words at that moment, but key was sticking to the game plan.

Kirchheim who were somewhat undermined on the glass outrebounded Giessen from the start. It really felt like Kirchheim wanted it more than Giessen from that stand point until the end?

I think so. Igor said all season long that if we set the tone from the get go and are more physical at both ends and get rebounds, then nobody will stop us. We are very versatile and our goal each game is to dominate with our physicality. If we did that, then we had really good chances of winning.

Nicholas Bretzel made big shots, rebounds and big plays all game long. Where would the team be without him?

He is a very big difference with his presence under the glass. He makes it very difficult for the opponent to get to the rim and he rebounds very well. You really notice and how much of a disadvantage we are in those areas when he doesn´t play. He is a key player for us.

You also had that special fire in your eyes right from the get go. How big is the motivation to beat Giessen since you played NBBL for them?

It is always very special for me to play in Giessen. I played my whole youth here and as a boy would watch Giessen play. It is always special to see family and friends there.

How crazy is it scoring 48 points as a team at the break and Philipp Russell having 0 points?

That was crazy. He is such a brutal player. Even when he didn´t have a great game for say 35 minutes, he is still able to dig deep down and pull another lever and step up. He has a big character and giant will to win. He makes big plays in the clutch. We always know what we will get from him in crunch-time.

Kirchheim continued to manage the lead well in the third quarter. It seemed like Tylan Pope carried the team. Did he recognize early that he had to step up with Russell not on his game?

We have showed all season long that we don´t need to rely on just one guy to score. We have our main guys, but also 4-5 can score 10-20 points. Tylan really stepped up in the playoffs with big games.

Kirchheim was up 20 points in the fourth quarter and made a furious comeback and made it close. Did Kirchheim become to sure of the win?

That is hard to say. When you play in a gym like the Ost Halle where the atmosphere is incredible, one play can really get the crowd even more involved and turn a game around. I think the fans really helped Giessen stage that comeback. But we never lost our will to win. Even with 8 minutes to play, we always believed in getting the win. We were also ready for a comeback, because in a way we expected it.

Kirchheim kept their composure in crunch-time. What else was key for getting the win at the end?

We believed in ourselves and did the little things. They had the momentum in that run and at the start, we were a bit unsure of ourselves, but overal we had the confidence and knew we would win. We made big plays and shots and sealed the win at the end with free throws.

When you look back at the series against Giessen, what was the difference?

I think that our physicality was the difference. We weren´t ready in game 1 where they dominated the boards. But we really set the tone in the last 3 wins. We did a good job trying to slow down their main guys and dominating the rebounds. Even when Giessen played good defense, they weren´t rewarded, because we still executed well.

Giessen fans complained on social media after the game that some of the Kirchheim Americans had bad unsportsmanlike conduct after the buzzer sounded. How tough is it playing in the Ost halle? Can you understand that your teammates were dealing with high emotions after a win like that?

The Giessen fans know how to provoke the opponents players. In the playoffs, the intensity is raised a bit more with frustration. I didn´t see exactly what happened, but I can understand my teammates that they would react like that after having to put up with boos and being harassed for 40 minutes.

Is Kirchheim satisfied now or does it have the fire to win the Pro A title?

We aren´t Satisfied yet. We didn´t reach the pro A final to take it on the easy shoulder. We want to win it all now. We have never won a title in the history of the organization. It would be historic and a crowning end to the season.

How special of a coach is Igor Perovic? Doesn´t he finally deserve a easyCredit BBL job offer?

Igor has deserved a BBL chance since many years. But I think that he feels very comfortable in Kirchheim. It has been incredible how he has achieved success with the little means that he is given. He deserves a chance very much in the BBL.

How was the ride home? Was their partying on the bus?

We traveled in 3 vans. The atmosphere was great in my van.

Can Bremerhaven make the upset in Hagen tonight?

It is hard to say. The series is balanced. But I think Hagen has the edge, because they proved all season long that they are very hard to beat at home. I wouldn´t rule out Bremerhaven, but I see the odds at 51% Hagen and 49% Bremerhaven.

Thanks Lucas for the chat.

It Wasn´t Radii Caisin´s Break Out Year In Frankfurt Yet But He Played His Role Well Giving The Skyliners Instant Energy From The Bench


Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

If you were to look at all the leagues in Germany from the easyCredit BBL to the Regionalliga 2 or even further down, it would be interesting to observe how many teams in all those leagues had that one question lingering in their minds for the whole summer, what if? What could have become of our season had certain things happened or not happened. An abundance of questions and questions filling players and coaches heads probably not any less than for many in the NBA wondering if a Jalen Brunson can steal the show of a Shai or Wemby in the NBA finals. It wasn’t any different for German easyCredit BBL team Skyliners who finished the season only in 15th place with a record of 12-22. It was a club that had a lot of potential and quality, but at the end of the season, the question has to be was it put together correctly? It probably wasn’t due to the record. But one is always smarter at the end of the season. The club had a ruthless scorer and rebounder in Jaedon LeDee who simply disappeared at the second Fiba break in February. The biggest question has to be how well would the Skyliners have played with LeDee there until the end. Another question was, where would the club have finished had they simply won more close games? It has to be fair to say that the Skyliners underachieved during the 2025-2026 season. ‘With this team I believe we could have achieved more. I think this season was something that we can build on for next year, even though we had a lots of up and downs’, stressed Radii Caisin (198-SG-2001).

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Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

Ups and downs is definitely a correct statement from the ex Vecta player. The Skyliners began 2-3 and then seemed like things would turn around with a 3 game winning streak, however that then followed 4 loses in 6 games. The team would only achieve one more 2 game winning streak and then finish the season with a bleak 7 game losing streak. ‘We couldn’t really learn from our mistakes and dropped some games that we should have won’, said Radii Caisin. After that 3 game winning streak, the Fiba break came. Did that halt the Skyliners momentum? ‘No, I don’t think so. We still had practice in that time too. It was just a tough schedule with good teams in one week only’, remembered Radii Caisin. A massive problem of the Skyliners was losing the close games. It really felt like they couldn’t get any brakes in any of the close games. The team lost 10 games out of the 22 by 5 points or less. Winning 5 of those could of put them in the playdowns. How tough was it to digest that now knowing what could of happened in the season? ‘Even though we achieved our 1 goal, it gives a bittersweet taste, because there was more possible’, added Radii Caisin. The team had a great scorer in Jaedon LeDee who won the Skyliners a few games and also other good closers, but why couldn’t the Skyliners win more close games? Was it truly missing that tough go to guy? ‘I don’t think so. We could not learn from our mistakes and specially in close games the same mistakes came up. Also we couldn’t just close out same games, even though we were controlling or leading that game’, commented Radii Caisin. LeDee was dominant as only could be averaging 17/8 stats and played his last game for the Skyliners on Feb 17 in the loss to Munich. Then he was gone and the team closed the season 3-10. How much of an effect did his absence and the way he left have on the team? ‘Obviously he was good player and playing well. Of course it’s a gap that had to be closed, but still I think the team had enough potential’, warned Radii Caisin. Another curious aspect to the season was the inability to play better defense under Klaus Perwas. Back a decade ago, the Skyliners always belonged to the best defensive teams in the easyCredit BBL under Gordon Herbert and Perwas, but why not now? The team scored 80 points per game, but allowed 86 points. ‘That’s a good question. I think again the problem was consistency’, said Radii Caisin. The team then had real misfortune as there were 9 injuries on the last game day against ratiopharm Ulm as the team’s absent spots were filled up by 6 Pro B players. Casin was also out. ‘I haven’t seen anything like that. Its very tough, but there was nothing we could do’, remembered Radii Caisin who had the Isaiah Swope buzzer beater against Chemnitz as his season highlight.

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Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

Despite missing the playoffs, Radii Caisin was able to build new relationships with his teammates and one he definitely won’t forget is Swiss army knife Will Christmas who always gave 180% on the court. ‘He was a cool dude. Very simple to get a long with. His transition game is something that’s something to learn from’, expressed Radii Caisin. Isaiah Swope dazzled with his incredible ball handling and scoring. He is probably one of the best iso players the Skyliners have had in the last decade. How big is his potential? ‘He has a lot of potential. He is still very young. His one on one and his step back is very good’, remembered Radii Caisin. Was there one player that improved the most during the season? ‘I think Jakob Knauf improved a lot and specifically in the last stretch’, said Radii Caisin. The German who played 63 games with the BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaged 5/2 stats with the Skyliners in 18 minutes of time and had never averaged more than 3,0ppg in the easyCredit BBL. Was this his break out season in the easyCredit BBL? ‘It was a good season for me, but I wouldn’t call it a break out year for me’, stated Radii Caisin. He was a player that came from the bench and always gave instant energy, hit clutch three’s and made big plays on the defensive end. ‘That was my role in that team and I think I did good playing that role’, stressed Radii Caisin. In his last 2 seasons in Austria he averaged 30% from the parking lot and with Frankfurt shot 31%. ‘The shot selection wasn’t bad I believe, but still there’s room to improve and make it better for next year’, warned Radii Caisin. He has one year left on his contract with the Skyliners and knows exactly what he will be working on most this summer so he can return in August an even better player. ‘I will still be working on my shot and also more with the ball. Also I will work on my body and try to improve it’, stressed Radii Caisin. In the next weeks the 2026 easyCredit BBL champion will be crowned. Could Bonn make an upset? ‘ I think it will be very interesting. The league is very tight, so everything is possible. Bonn is a good call. It’s going to be Munich and Bambergin the final if you’re asking me. Munich is going to win it all’, said Radii Caisin.

2026 JBBL Champion And MVP Finn Wohlert Had No Special Breakfast Only Bacon And Fruit To Explode For 33 Points

Finn Wohlert is a 16 year old 190cm guard that plays for the Bonn/Koln JBBL (U-16) team. He has been with the team since the mini’s. The sniper and best 1-1 defender on the team spoke shortly to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 JBBL final in Berlin.

Thanks Finn for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on winning the 2026 JBBL title. What kind of a feeling is it for you?

I didn’t realize it at the start. It was such a nice experience to play with this team. Being together for a season and then winning the title.

If someone had told you in August 2025 that you would win the 2026 JBBL title, what would you have thought?

I would of believed it. I thought we had something special. I think after winning the title, I had the right feeling about the team.

Did your game winner against Oldenburg give the team extra energy?

Yes I think it did. Winning the game on a last shot is a special feeling. He stepped up big for a young player.

Both Ulm and Bonn combined for 48 points in the first quarter. Did the high scoring surprise you?

We have the potential to have halves like that. Ulm have really good 1-1 players who are hard to stop. We should of done a better job stopping them.

Bonn played nice team basketball in the first, third and fourth quarters, but got away from it in the second quarter. Why did that happen?

I felt like we did too much 1-1. We felt like we needed to do it. But at the end of the day we knew we could only win as a team.

What did head coach Tom Becker tell the team to do for the second half?

He told us that we have nothing to lose, but they do and have all the pressure. He told us to just play our game and we will win.

What was key for getting the win in the fourth quarter?

We hit more shots and played better defense and Ulm had more problems to score. We got more steals and did a good job getting in the passing lanes.

Kahlil Idbihi had a huge game of 18/15/5. How vital is his play for team?

He is a big part of team. He helps us so much at both ends of the court. He always pushes us and gives us the sense that we can win with team basketball.

You exploded for 33 points?. Did you have a special breakfast?

No I had bacon which I eat every day and also fruit.

How special was this performance for you getting MVP?

It means a lot, but for me team always comes first. I would always rather win a title than a MVP title. It is a good feeling knowing my impact helped the team win.

Is it fair to say that you stole the show from Marko Volf?

My team stole the show, but Marko is a great player as well.

I love the game of serge Ossai. He was your unsung hero. What makes him so special as a player?

He is a very versatile player on offense and defense. He does a lot of the dirty work. He gets key rebounds, defends the other teams best player and scores when needed.

What was the biggest strength of Team Bonn/Koeln this season?

We always stuck together as a team and always put team over everything else.

How special of a coach is Tom Becker. Dirk Bauermann said he belongs to the best German talents.

He always pushed us in every practice and game. He always stressed that team is always the most important.

Will you guys celebrate on the ride home?

We don’t really party, but I think we will now.

who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Oliver Papez?

It could always go both ways. We are both talented.

Thanks Finn for the chat.

2026 JBBL Champion Oliver Papez Believes The Secret To The Success Of Team Bonn/Koln Was That Family Feeling That Continued To Grow Through The Season

Oliver Papez is a 15 year old 189cm guard that plays for JBBL (U-16) team Team Bonn/Koln. He has been with the organization since the U-10 team. The vocal leader who has the German/Czech Republic spoke to germanhoops.com shortly after winning the 2026 JBBL title in Berlin.

Congrats Oliver on winning the 2026 JBBL title. What kind of a feeling is it for you?

It is a great feeling. We have all been together since the U-12. We are like a family. Our unity grew and got stronger through the season. Winning this title was the crowning point.

If someone had told you in August 2025 that you would win the 2026 JBBL title, what would you have thought?

I would of said that we definitely have a quality to be successful, but I would never have seen us as a favorite.

Did the game winner of Idbihi against Oldenburg give the team extra energy?

I think that shot showed what can happen, when you never give up through out a game of ups and downs. We just keep playing through adversary.

Both Ulm and Bonn combined for 48 points in the first quarter. Did the high scoring surprise you?

We have such offensive power that a high scoring half can always be a reality for us. If we have 4 guys hitting three´s, then we are tough to stop.

Bonn played nice team basketball in the first, third and fourth quarters, but got away from it in the second quarter. Why did that happen?

We got in a little hole in the second quarter. Ulm displayed better ball movement. We did too much 1-1. At half-time, we realized that we were in Berlin because we were a team.

What did head coach Tom Becker tell the team to do for the second half?

He remined us that we were a family and had to leave it all on the floor no matter what.

What was key for getting the win in the fourth quarter?

We did a good job hitting our three´s and also stepped up our defense a level. Ulm didn´t cover the 3 point line and didn´t rotate well.

How would you describe Finn Wohlert in a sentence?

He is an unbelievable and incredible player.

Is it fair to say that he stole the show from Marko Volf?

I think that he did. I knew he could have a game like that. He has so much potential. He had a great day. It wasn´t luck, but due to the work he puts in. Marko Volf also is an incredible player.

I love the game of Serge Ossai. He was your unsung hero. What makes him so special as a player?

He was injured a lot this season. He has been on team since the U-12. He gives a lot of offensive support. Finn, Kahlil, him and I lead the team. We have a deep rotation.

What was the biggest strength of Team Bonn/Köln this season?

No matter who played, everyone performed. If we lost, we always got up. We always gave all we had.

How special of a coach is Tom Becker. Dirk Bauermann said he belongs ot the best German talents.

He has coached me since the U-10. He knows what each player can do. We are like family. He fit perfect to the team and we accepted his style.

Will you guys celebrate on the ride home?

We will watch the rest of the games and just enjoy the day.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Finn Wohlert?

It would be a 50/50 chance.

Thanks Oliver for the chat.

2026 JBBL Winner Khalil Idbihi Never Thinks On The Court But Just Plays And Lets The Game Come To Him

Khalil Idbhi is a 14 year old 186cm guard that plays for the Team Baskets/Koln RAG. The competitive allrounder with ahigh IQ is the son of former professional player Yassin Idbihi and has been with the Bonn organization since the U-10 team. He spoke to eurobasket shortly after winning the 2026 JBBL title in Berlin.

Congrats on winning the 2026 JBBL title. What kind of a feeling is it for you?

I still can´t believe it. It is the best feeling in the world. I still haven´t realized it.

If someone had told you in August 2025 that you would win the 2026 JBBL title, what would you have thought?

I would of believed it, but not expected it.

Did your game winner against Oldenburg give the team extra energy?

I think it did. But we had energy every game even if we son by 20 points.

Both Ulm and Bonn combined for 48 points in the first quarter. Did the high scoring surprise you?

It didn´t surprise me really. We are both good offensive teams. We weren´t ready to defend yet in the first half.

Bonn played nice team basketball in the first, third and fourth quarters, but got away from it in the second quarter. Why did that happen?

We didn´t work together. Our play was static. It happens at times.

What did head coach Tom Becker tell the team to do for the second half?

He just kept motivating us and giving us the feeling to keep playing our game and that we could win.

What was key for getting the win in the fourth quarter?

We hit more shots and played good team basketball. You could see that Ulm didn´t have good body language.

How would you describe Finn Wohlert in a sentence who exploded for 33 points?

He is an unbelievable player. What he did today was crazy. He won us the game.

Is it fair to say that he stole the show from Marko Volf?

I wouldn´t say he stole the show from him. You can´t compare them. They are both great players.

I love the game of serge Ossai. He was your unsung hero. What makes him so special as a player?

He is so valuable for us. He can hit shots and is a great defender. He is simply a great player.

You had an incredible 18/14/5 game. Your game looks so calm. Did you get some of that from your dad?

I got everything from my dad. He has taught me so much. I also just let the game come to me also. I just play and don´t think.

What was the biggest strength of Team Bonn/Köln this season?

Our team chemistry.

How special of a coach is Tom Becker. Dirk Bauermann said he belongs ot the best German talents.

Coach is great. I have had him since the U-10. He is the best coach that I have ever had with my dad.

Will you guys celebrate on the ride home?

We will party later, but first watch the games.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Serge Ossai?

Of course I will.

Thanks Khalil for the chat.

2026 AST Champion Lucai Anderson´s Sniper Qualities Continue To Grow Not Through Quantity But Moreover Through Quality

Pic credit: Iamwosz

It was about 10 minutes after Germany had totally destroyed Bahrain in the opening contest at the 2026 Albert Schweitzer tournament. I wanted to interview Germany´s top scorer Lucai Anderson (190-G-2009). I stopped him and he said he would return back after coaches talk in the locker room. I waited and there were some kids shooting on one of the basket´s as well as also a young man that looked a bit familiar. I asked a young kid if that was Christian Anderson and he said yes. Anderson´s second season at Texas Tech had ended early and it was only logical that he would be in Germany on Easter supporting his younger brother at AST. Then after a few seconds, I recognized a man next to me and that happened to be the dad of Christian and Lucai. We rapped for a few minutes and it was nice knowing that he had read my work at Eurobasket for decades. That was very cool to hear from him. It was Easter in Germany and the Anderson men were all together. It just couldn´t be any other way. “It was pretty cool having both of them there watching me. We move together as a unit. We go everywhere together”, smiled Lucai Anderson. Brother Christian is 3 years older than Lucai and will be a projected 2026 first round pick in the NBA. Does Lucai feel any pressure having to follow in his brothers footsteps? “I don´t feel pressure. For me it is observing his path. I can see his mistakes and learn from them. I also get more opportunities watching his path. I´m always trying to learn from his game. I have learned how he plays on and off the ball”, stressed Lucai Anderson. Winning the AST title was a big title in his young career. “I had total joy and celebration when the buzzer sounded in the final. This was my first title with Germany and that was pretty special”, said Lucai Anderson.

The Anderson family with Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Mannheim Germany at AST

Germany played Bahrain first at AST and used it as a warm up destroying the Asian team 116-59. Germany totally controlled the boards 55-31 and had 6 players score in double figures led by Lucai Anderson with 16 points. “It was a good thing that we had an easier opponent like Bahrain in the first game. That gave us the opportunity to find our faults and then be able to fix them so we would be ready for more difficult opponents”, stated Lucai Anderson. Jamie Edoka had a solid first game scoring 11 points and filled the stat sheet and was on his way to becoming one of the best players in the tournament. “Jamie is a very solid player. He always plays hard no matter what. He has the ability to impact the game the way he needs to”, warned Lucai Anderson. Germany next faced Slovenia and had their toughest challenge of the tournament. Germany started slow and had to play catch up basketball for most of the game. Germany picked up the intensity in the fourth quarter at both ends and won it with the masterful game winner by Jamie Edoka. “We learned from that first Slovenia game to play more as a team. He also learned to move the ball better as well as playing better against ball pressure”, stated Lucai Anderson. Edoka closed out the game with a pretty step back jumper on the baseline where the basketball God let it bounce around on rim and back board before finally rolling in. “I knew Jamie´s shot was going in. It was crazy how it was in and out and then fell in”, said Lucai Anderson. Germany controlled the boards again 41-33 with 16 offensive rebounds and had 4 guys score in double figures. Lucai Anderson was top scorer with 16 points and nailed big three´s when Germany needed it in their come back. Caspar Vossenberg added 13 points and was one of those silent hero´s during the tournament stepping up in so many ways. “Caspar was really important for our success. He always brought a lot of energy. He always got us going with dunks”, remembered Lucai Anderson. Germany next faced Turkey where many Turkish fans showed up adding to a beautiful atmosphere. Germany was in control in the first half, but had a horrible third quarter being outscored 24-4, but retreated in the fourth quarter demonstrating that they can flip the switch at any time exploding for 29 points and winning easily 95-80. “We struggled a bit against Turkey with rebounding. We got a little laid back and lost our principles. That was our wake up call and then we got going”, remembered Lucai Anderson. Germany once again dominated the boards 44-26 and offensive rebounds 20-8 and shot a potent 46% from outside. Germany was led by Lucai Anderson with 26 points and had 4 players in double figures. Fin Borczwanoski had a solid game of 13 points, but was in the shadow of Lucai Anderson´s brilliant scoring game. “Fin was also a vital piece for our success. He always found a way to help us get rhythm on offense. He had the ability to score and rebound well”, remembered Lucai Anderson.

Germany then faced Sweden in the fourth game and won 91-56. After a tight first quarter, Germany then played consistent ball in the last 3 quarters averaging 22 points and allowing only 11 points on the way to a comfortable victory. Germany led by as much as 35 points and won the rebound duel 61-32. They also forced them to 6/37 shooting from outside. “We really dominated the boards at both ends. I think that the second chance points was a big reason why we won the game”, added Lucai Anderson. Germany spread the love around with scoring once again totaling 5 players in double figures led by Edoka´s 15 points. Not only did Kiehlneker have a dominant double double, but so did Alba Berlin talent Anton Kemmer. “Felix is a great rebounder and lob threat. He helped us a lot with his rim protection, presence and being able to alter shots”, remembered Lucai Anderson. The German domination continued against Japan winning 103-78. After a tight first quarter, Germany then exploded for 62 points in the second and third quarters paving the win. “They played fast like we did, but we had the size advantage. Mentally we were strong and didn´t take them for granted”, said Lucai Anderson. Germany was led by Caspar Vossenberg with 17 points and had 4 guys score in double figures and won the rebound battle again easily 61-32 with 20 offensive rebounds. Germany was 5-0 and now met Brazil in the semi-finals. Was any one going to stop them? Germany witnessed a tight scoring first half leading 51-50, but stepped it up in the third quarter exploding for 31 points and took it up another notch in the last frame with 39 points winning 121-98 “We had a good first half and then their defense put more focus on me. We didn´t let that hurt us. We got others involved and there was no stopping us”, added Lucai Anderson. Anderson and Edoka combined for 47 points as Anderson led all scorers with 26 points. Another key player for Germany at AST was Ludwigsburg guard Kenan Youdom who chipped in with 11 points vs Brazil, but was one of the team´s best defenders. “His defense always gave us energy and got us going. He always got all to play defense, but his offense was also vital”, stressed Lucai Anderson. Germany won the rebound battle again 40-24, shot 42% from outside and only coughed up the ball 9 times.

The final was a close battle against Slovenia. Germany led 46-38 at the break, but in the second half Slovenia led briefly until Germany got the lead back and never looked back despite winning the second half only 41-37. “I think that Slovenia rushed to much at the end and couldn´t hit shots. We sped them up more than they wanted to. We also wanted it more than they did”, warned Lucai Anderson. Germany was led by Edoka with 17 points and had 4 guys score in double figures and won the rebound battle again 49-36. ”I think our biggest strength during the AST was our ability to run transition. We wore out all the teams. Our depth also was really important in our success”, remembered Lucai Anderson. After the win, coach Alan Ibrahimagic was greeted with a massive shower in the dressing room. There was a team dinner and then most guys were on their way home except for Anderson and Dopfer who left Sunday to travel back to the states. The German who lists players Alessanco Vazquez Dos Santos of Brazil and Slovenian players Igor Stjepanovic and Lukas Bojovic as the playesr that impressed him most during the tournament had a solid tournament averaging 15/1/2 stats and shot 15/35 from outside. “It was a lot of fun playing against so many familiar faces that I had seen at the Next Gen tournament. I think that more team ball was played at AST, but the players were more talented at Next Gen. I think I played well, but could have been more consistent. I could of impacted the game more in 2-3 games. When shots aren´t falling then you try to do other things to help the team win. I´m just happy that we won”, expressed Lucai Anderson. He played against 6 different nations and against the best youth players on earth which helped his game make another step. “I struggled at the start with the ball pressure, but then it got better. I also learned to finish better against bigger bodies”, stated Lucai Anderson. All his teammates were impressed with his incredible shooting and it is something that helped carry Germany in so many times during AST. “My dad has taught me to shoot the ball a different way since I was 2 or 3. I think what separates me from other shooters is not focusing on quantity but quality. At the next level, shooters all have quantity, but it´s all about quality”, warned Lucai Anderson. It was the first time that he played for head coach Alan Ibrahimagic and was able to learn so much in such a short time. “Coach Alan gave me good tips like how to bring the ball up with less effort as well as challenging me on defense”, said Lucai Anderson. He had so many incredible moments on the court with his play, but what was his favorite? “I think my fondest moment was hitting the three´s against Slovenia after struggling at first”, remembered Lucai Anderson. It will be interesting to see where the career of Lucai Anderson continues to go in in the next years. One thing is for sure. The focus and hungriness to win the next Title with Germany will only continue to grow.

Jalen Harris(BC Nokia) Didn´t Feel Great In Warm Ups But Has Learned To Never Lose Confidence As He Exploded For 51 Points In A Game In Finland

Jalen Harris (185-G-1999, college: CS Fullerton) is a 27 year old 185cm guard from Los Angeles, California playing his second professional season and first with BC Nokia (Finland-1st Division B). He played his rookie season with the Manchester Giants (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 6.8ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 62.5%. He began his basketball career at Windward High School and then played 2 seasons at Casper College (JUCO) averaging 5.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 74.6% and 16.2ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 73.7%. he then played 3 seasons at California State University, Fullerton (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 71.4%, 9.3ppg, 1.0rpg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 81.0%, 12.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 73.7%. He spoke to eurobasket after scoring 51 points in Finland

Thanks Jalen for talking to eurobasket.com. You recently scored 51 points in a game and was the highest scorer in the world. You did it in second division Finland. What does this feat mean to you?

That feat means a lot to me as this is the most points I have ever scored in a game, and in winning fashion. I credit my teammates for continuing to find me when I had the hot hand.

You demonstrated good scoring qualities in Juco scoring in double figures one season and one season in the NCAA, but last season in England didn´t surpass double figures. This season your averaging 31,0ppg. How do explain that? Did you always know you were a walking bucket?

I have always had a natural ability to score the ball. The stats may not demonstrate it, but England was a great learning experience for me. Without that season, I don’t experience the success I am having now.

Did you have a special breakfast or do something different on this day to help you achieve so many points?

The one thing I did differently was get a lift in pregame. I normally like to do just mobility and stretching, but I feel like lifting some weight helped activate my body and my mind.

How did you feel going into the game? Do you sometimes know how your game may go after warm ups and how your shot is feeling?

Going into the game I actually didn’t feel great. In warm ups I was missing a lot of shots and felt out of rhythm. With that being said, I have learned to not allow warmups to affect my confidence and aggression level going into games. I put the work in so I trust it no matter the conditions.

How did you get into the game flow? How rapidly did you know that you might have a real good scoring day?

I feel like I got into game flow pretty quickly. I had 2 free throws to start the game, and my first two 3’s I was essentially wide open. Once that happened it did not matter what the defense did because I was already in the flow of the game.

The team had 23 assists in the game and you 6. How many of your buckets were made on the isolation?

I am not sure how many isolation buckets I had, but iId argue that many of them were assisted as I ran off a lot of pin downs this game.

You netted 12 three´s in the game something very little guys have ever done. How does it feel hitting 12 three´s one less than Steph Curry´s best total ever?

Making 12 three’s felt amazing – although in the moment I wasn´t aware of what was happening. I was just taking the shots as they came to me, and I happened to make 12 of them this game.

After scoring 50 plus points does that raise one´s zeal to do it again?

As much as it would be nice to score 50 again, I like to go into games with very little expectations. Those being to have fun, and compete at a high level no matter what happens in the game.

Do you give a special shout out to Darryl Jordan who had a monumental 25/21 game which is also extreme rare.

Yes I do! Shoutout to my guy DJ – awesome player who is deserving of recognition as well.

What was your favorite own basket of the 51 point game?

My favorite had to be the step back 3 I made in the corner in front of my own bench. My teammates were hyping me up and the energy was amazing.

Did you get any special messages from people that you might not have expected from?

That night my phone was ringing a lot, but I would say all of the people who reached out have always showed love and supported me.

Did you have to get your teammates donuts after game?

Unfortunately no donuts !

Thanks Jalen fort he chat.

Versatile Josh Harris Is An Underrated Defender Who Knows How To Win Titles

Josh Harris (196-F, college: Illinois Coll.) is a 196cm guard that was briefly overseas in Germany for his rookie season with the TuS59 Hamm Stars and team Nikola Tesla in Hamburg. He played at Illinois College (NCAA3) form 2021-2025 playing a total of 98 games. In his freshman season he averaged 5.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 61.1%. In his second season he averaged 12.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 60.8%. In his junior season he averaged 13.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.5%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 63.7% and as a senior averaged 15.2ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 74.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Josh for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? Not many former NCAA 3 players get a chance to become professional?

I am extremely blessed with all glory to God. And yes I know there aren´t many people from division 3 but there have been some and I always thought I was next.

Your playing your rookie season with TuS 59 HammStars (Germany-Regionalliga). What did you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

If you want to be honest before looking it up I knew not a lot but watching some youtube videos I found out that Germany along with some other countries is a good starting point to begin your career

Did you ever have former teammates or opponents ball in overseas?

Yes I have a bunch of former opponents and teammates that currently play overseas to name a few Troy Burrows is in China, Keenon Cole is in the Czech republic, and Duane Goodman is heading to Malta.

What were the main reasons for you joining TuS 59 HammStars (Germany-Regionalliga). What really stood out for you most about this organization?

I love how professional they are with things. When I talked to coach they had dreams on being champions and I like to compete for championships when I play.

How did the talks go with head coach Ivan Rosic? What did you appreciate instantly about his basketball philosophy?

I love my talks with coach Rosic. He let me know right away their expectations are to win a championship and let me know clearly what my role would be on the team when I got here. Love how he talked about offense will come, we want to be the best defensive team in the league.

You had a great college career. In the German Regionalliga it is the imports that usually have to carry the team. Do you feel any pressure?

I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel any pressure but I trust the work I put in to get to this point and the work I’m going to continue to put in throughout the season.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I play a lot like Austin Reaves a combo guard who can play on or off ball

Coach Ivan Rosic defines you as a great leader. How developed did you leadership skills get at Illinois College where you won 2 MWC titles?

I would say my last two years in school, I was considered one of the leaders so if I wanted to or not I had to be the one to push my teammates to be the best they can be every day.

You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. How much of a versatile player would you describe yourself?

I would consider myself very versatile I can move off the ball and play that way but I am also a bigger point guard who can control the offense and create for others

Is it fair to say that your 3 pointer is still a work in progress? What is your biggest goal this season with your outside shooting?

I would say just being confident in my shot. If you check I shot almost 40% from 3 my junior year of college and senior year I just lost a little bit of confidence in it but I know I can shoot the ball at a high level.

How would you describe your defensive game? Is it fair to say that your still a raw defender? What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I would say my defense is a very underrated part of my game. I would say yes I would love to improve to be better but I am not a liability on that end of the floor. If you check high school and college my teams are some of the best defenses in the state or nation and I am a part of that. I would say I can hold my own on that end but I want to get to a point where you don’t even want the ball around me.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so that you can continue to improve as a player?

I would say my strength the game here is a lot more physical and I want to get stronger to last over here. I want to get more athletic and also want to improve my shooting.

You played at Illinois College (NCAA3) from 2021-2025 playing 98 games. You improved your scoring average each season. How did your game grow in your 4 years? What kind of a player were you in 2021 and what kind now?

I would say the game slowed down for me throughout my 4 years and understanding how to play within the system picking my spots. I would say I was strictly a slasher in 2021 trying to beat people with my speed and that’s it. Now I am scorer that knows when to shoot or drive and get to my spots.

You won 2 MWC titles. Which one was sweeter?

I would say the first one was sweeter from my sophomore year because it was the first time in school history so that was a special moment.

You had so many great games at Illinois College including a 30 point explosion against Wisconsin-Lutheran. What was your best game in school?

I would say my 36 point game against Knox I just feel like I showed all parts of my game in that game and we won with a clutch shot made by me.

How did head coach Steve Schweer groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

I would say just prepared me as a man to be out on my own in the real world.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jake Mazrimas?

Aye he won’t tell you but I won

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

No one in the NCAA reached that I played against but in high school I played against Max Christie

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ben Vanderwal, Jake Mazrimas, Buzz Ritzel, Will Rogers, Jemari Moore

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

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

I haven’t seen this

Thanks Josh for the chat.

41 Year Old Billy Mcdaniel(Etzella Ettelbruck) Never Worried About Being The Best Player In Luxemburg But Just Wanted To Help His Team Win And Have Fun

Billy McDaniel (199-F/C-1984, college: UAM) is a 41 year old 199cm forward playing his 20th professional season and first with Etzella Ettelbruck averaging 11,0ppg, 7,1rpg, 1,0apg and 1,1spg. Last season he played with BBC Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 16.1ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT-2 (46.4%), FT: 88.2%. He is playing his18th seasons in Luexemburg and played one season in Iran and one season in Germany. He has won 6 titles in Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2)´playing a total of 120 NCAA 2 games. In his best 2 seasons, he averaged 20.8ppg, RebNCAA2-1 (12.8rpg), 1.0apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 76.5% and 20.0ppg, RebNCAA2-9 (10.9rpg), 1.1spg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 67.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Billy for talking to germanhoops.com. Your 41 years old and in your 20th season as a professional playing for Etzella Ettelbruck. You just don´t stop. How are your wheels feeling at the moment?

The wheels are still turning, so to say, of course I have the normal amount of body soreness that’s expected this time of the year, but I do what’s needed to take care of myself as best as I can.

Your in your 18th season as a pro in Luxemburg and have played more than 400 games in your career. How quickly did Luxemburg become like a second home to you?

It’s even funny reading that I’ve been here for 17 years, it’s amazing how fast time flies. My wife came over from Germany a year after I arrived in Luxembourg, 2008 for me and 2009 for her. So I would say around 2012, we kind of figured that we could see ourselves settling down and making Luxembourg our home. It’s a great place and I can’t imagine many other places in the world that are better to raise kids than in Luxembourg.

What 10 years went quicker? From 20-30 or from 30 to 40?

I would definitely say that the 10 years from 30-40 have gone by faster.

You began your basketball career in 2002 with University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2). If someone had told you in 2002 that you would still be a pro in 2025 what would you have thought?

Of course, if someone tells me back in 2002, that I’m still doing what I love 23 years, I wouldn’t believe it.

What memories do you have of college basketball from almost 25 years ago. It was a lot different than than today. What were some major differences?

What I remember most about college is never being sore from all of that practice time that was put in. Those college practices seemed like they lasted forever. I remember the shot clock being 35 seconds and the game being slower back then. I remember long bus rides to conference games out of state, getting back late and having to go to class the next morning. I really enjoyed my college basketball experience and it helped shaped me into the player that I am today.

You would of come out of school in 2025 and begun your pro career, how do you feel would your career have gone? Do you feel like you could have had a different kind of career?

It’s very possible that my pro career could have gone in a different direction, especially since year after year is just so different as to which country you play in and things that you sometimes can’t control. In all honesty, I think the style of game that I play is suited to adapt to any playing style, so whether it’s me coming out of college in 2006 like I did, or now in 2025, I think my career follows a similar trajectory.

You were a double double menace your first 2 seasons at University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2). How do you remember your game developing there? You got a good gripe on consistency early on didn´t you?

I remember having to be more physical stepping into the game, especially as a true freshman. Hitting the weights and learning about defense and schemes helped develop me as well. I did get a good grip on learning how to be consistent, because early on in my college career I was asked to be a scorer and a rebounder which was what I did best, so it was a good situation for me.

What was your fondest moment in the NCAA 2? You had many monster games. Which was your best game?

My fondest memory from school was definitely reaching the NCAA2 Sweet 16 my senior year. Being a small D2 school and playing schools like Fresno State, LSU, and Cincinnati were also great memories.

What memories do you have of Benas Matkevicius? He had a short pro playing career, but then went on to become a well known scout having scouted for CSKA Moscow and now the Boston Celtics. He also has a podcast.

My memories of Benas were of him being a great teammate and a fighter through adversity. He suffered a few knee injuries in school and he always fought back and found his way back to the court. It speaks volumes about the type of person that he is.

How did your head coach Mike Newell groom and prepare you for a pro career?

First off, Mike prepares you for life. After being in his program for four years, I feel like he had me prepared for anything and everything that life had to throw my way. As far as my career goes, he put the ball in my hands very early on and kind of gave me the green light, which gave me a lot of confidence.

Who won a 1-1 in practice back in the day you or Nate Newell?

I’d say the 1 on 1 battle with Nate and I was about even, he could score the ball pretty good.

Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?

The toughest guy that I ever matched up with was Joe Johnson, in the Dunbar league back in Arkansas. After my senior year he was home and came to play in the league. He gracefully cooked everyone that guarded him. Let’s just say it’s a good thing that the game wasn’t recorded, yea he was definitely like that and I got to see first hand why they call him Iso Joe!

Not many players from Monticello have landed overseas. Guys like Sharif Hudson and Derylton Hill played in Germany. Have you followed the paths of guys that came overseas that played at your school?

Yes, UAM is a small school and not many guys have gone on to play overseas. I did follow Sharif and I kept in touch with him during that time as well.

You began your professional career at Shahrdari Gorgan Municipality (Iran-Superleague). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My first Pro season was certainly an eye opener. The first and the biggest eye opener was actually during the flight over to Iran and thinking, man this flight is taking forever

What was your coolest experience in Iran? Did you celebrate any team parties in a palace?

My coolest experience in Iran was probably making the playoffs and winning the first round series. Just gaining that type of experience was nice, especially with being a rookie. We actually did have a teammates wedding that year, but not at a palace.

You played your second pro season with the Paderborn Baskets 91 (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 34 games averaging 4.1ppg, 3.2rpg. What memories do you have of that season? You had so many great teammates like the big 3 of Tim Black, Steve Esterkamp and Marius Nolte and others. Which player had the biggest impact on you?

Yes, second season spent in Germany, where I would eventually meet my wife. Great memories in Germany, probably the biggest were playing against teams like Alba, in Berlin, the atmosphere in there was amazing. Bunch of great teammates there, but just seeing the commraderie that Tim, Steve and Marius had on and off the court was special. The way they all prepared for each practice and never cut any corners was something that I always tried to emulate. They were literally the ultimate professional players and I was very lucky to spend a season with guys like that early on in my career.

You played against many great players in Germany that season like Rickey Paulding or Dru Joyce or Romeo Travis. Which player that season do you remember being your toughest cover?

There were so many great players that season, and the guys that you mentioned were certainly up there, but man, Jeff Gibbs at Ulm was unlike any guy I had ever seen on the court. I don’t remember his name, but Frankfurt also had a guy that season that was tough.

You then went to Luxemburg and never left again. What did you learn to appreciate the most about the country on and off the court that has allowed you to be there more than 15 years?

There was something about Luxembourg that immediately made me like it, maybe it’s because I’m from a small town in Texas, Hearne to be exact, and a lot of the places here remind me of that, small communities where everyone knows everyone. The Luxembourgish community has always treated me well, I appreciate how players and fans interact with each other after games.

You played the first part of your pro career in Luxemburg with Black Star Mersch. What was so special about this club?

Yes, my first four years here were spent with Black Star Mersch. It was a family type of atmosphere and they treated me well.I learned a lot about the league during that time. Our team was really young and we grew together. I will always think back to those days in Mersch because we certainly weren’t the most talented team, but we worked and fought for each other.

How vital was coach Mike Smith early in your career? He gave you the freedom for you to play your game didn´t he?

Mike had an unbelievable impact on my career. He actually just came and watched my game last week, and I bet he’s the person that knows my game the best. Depending on where I am on the court he probably knows exactly what I’m going to do with the ball once I get it. We spent so much time working on and refining my game it’s crazy. Four years that I will remember forever, I am very thankful for the impact that he had on me.

You then played 5 years at Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) and had your best years winning many titles. What was it like being part of a dynasty?

Steinsel was amazing! I’ve been very lucky to have been with some great organizations and they were certainly up there. We won 6 titles, 3 cups, and 3 championships in a row! Being part of a dynasty like that was without a doubt the best time of my career. Finally getting over the hump with losing the championship two years in a row and then winning three in a row was something special. Winning a championship is so difficult, but winning three in a row with almost the same guys is something that I’ll always cherish.

What title at Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) was your favorite title?

It’s way too difficult to say which title was my favorite. Certainly the first cup title of 2015 was nice, because it was my first title as a pro, and unfortunately it came against Mike Smith. The first championship in 2016 was like finally proving to yourself and your teammates that we were good enough to get it done. The last championship was bittersweet because we knew the team would be different with losing coach KD, but we finished it off right with two doubles in a row and completing the 3peat!

What was the secret to the success of the dynasty? Did guys like Samy Picard and Bob Melchor become like brothers to you?

There really wasn’t a secret to the success. Yes, we were very talented, but we went to work and practiced hard. Coach KD got the best out of us. Practices were always competitive and we wanted to be great! Our whole team was like a brotherhood, but certainly guys like Bobby and Samy were very close to me as we were maybe the only guys who were there the entirety of the dynasty! With a guard that pushed the pace like Bobby and a shooter and scorer like Samy, it made my job very easy.

You were a walking bucket averaging 21,0ppg and 11,0rpg in those years. How did it feel for you being the best player in the league? What was your secret to being so consistent?

When you have a team like I had in Steinsel it was a perfect fit for me to come in and be myself. I was immediately put into a role that I was very familiar with and that allowed me to be successful. I never worried or cared about being the best player in the league, I just wanted to play my best, help my team win and have fun doing it. The key to consistency for me was doing the things that had always helped me, which were to always practice hard, take care of my body and perfect the things that I was good at. I never went outside of my boundaries as a basketball player, I know what I’m good at and I stick to it.

You then played 6 years with BBC Mambra Mamer (Luxembourg-Nationale 2). How do you remember these years? You didn´t play in the first division anymore. How much of a challenge was it for you mentally? You still were a walking bucket.

I then moved on to Mamer in 2018. The year that I joined them, they promoted from the 3rd to the 2nd league. After the 5 years in Steinsel, I felt like I needed to take a step back and go to the 2nd league. I remember the years playing for Mamer as me still being able to enjoy the game of basketball. By that time I was already working as a PE teacher, so having to go to work during the day and practicing at night wasn’t an easy task. Two of the seasons were cut short due to the pandemic, but it was still at great time in my career. Going to a lower league wasn’t really a challenge for me mentally, it was more so a challenge physically, because by that time I was getting up in age and my body didn’t feel the same as it did during my younger years of course. All in all, Mamer was another good stop in my career. We did some amazing things there that I’ll forever be proud of, moving up the first league is certainly up there in my career as things I’ll never forget.

Mike Smith came back to coach and you were reunited again. Did he become like a second dad to you?

Yes, Mike came back and helped us make club history by promoting to the first league in his first season as our head coach. He is most definitely family to me, he cooked the food at our engagement party and his daughter, who is an adult now, was our flower girl for the wedding.

You returned to the first division with BBC Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-LBBL) and averaged 37 minutes and 16/8. That is amazing considering there are many other Americans on the team. How much longer can you still play?

Yes, back in the first league now. I wouldn’t mind cutting down on some of those minutes, but it is what it is. I’m not sure how much longer I can still play. I do know that I still love it, so as usual, after the season I’ll take time with my family and see what’s best moving forward.

You were 15-16 years older than some of the Americans on the team. Are you like a mentor to guys like Ayers and Green?

I have always considered myself a lead by example type of guy. I offer advice from time to time, but for the most part I prefer showing the way over talking about it.

What are you goals after your playing career? Will you go into coaching or do something else and could you imagine staying overseas?

My goals after my playing career are to definitely travel a bit more. I’m sure I will eventually get into coaching, but for now I’ll stick to teaching PE, I really want to spend more time at home with my wife and kids before I jump into something else. Luxembourg is home now, my daughters were both born here, so this is where we will be.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There were a bunch of really good teammates, but if the list has to be cut to 5 I’ll go with Tim Black, Leon Ayers, Nathan Peavy, Shavon Coleman and Greg Jenkins.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Magic, Jordan, Kobe, Tim Duncan and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

Yes, I saw the sequel and like most classics it should have been left alone.

Thanks Billy for the chat

Basketball Globetrotter James Eads(Sabah BK Baku) Shooting Has Helped Him Carve Out An Illustrious Career Overseas

James Eads III (193-G-1997, college: Tuskegee) is a 28 year old 193cm guard form Orlando, florida playing his sixth professional season overseas and first with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). He began his basketball career at Edgewater High School and then embarked on a 4 year stay at Tuskegee University (NCAA2) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 101 games and as a senior averaged 19.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 69.7%. He turned pro in 2020 and has played in countries like Romania, Poland, Hungary and Taiwan. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks James for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan[1]ABL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about playing for this organization?

It’s been a great experience. Sabah is a very professional club and it felt good returning to the same club for the first time in my career

Last season you won the league title with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). How big is the hunger to repeat? Is the team as talented as last season?

There is definitely a big hunger to repeat being that Sabah has won the last three championships so we just want to keep the streak going. We truthfully might be a more well rounded team this year the team mesh’s wellThere’s

The team has 2 really talented guards with Americans with Hassani Gravett and David Nichols. What exactly is your role on the team?

I would say my role is knocking down shots and using my athleticism to help the pace of the team, and being a good defender as well

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would have to say someone like a Jimmy Butler

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet well. What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength is my ability to shoot the ball/ physicality

You always have been a solid three pointer. Last season you reached the 40% plateau and now shooting near 40% in the BCL. What has been key for reaching the next level as a shooter?

I try to always remain confident in my shot and abilities. That even when I’ve missed a few shots in a row or had a bad game or two in a row I still feel like I’m a great shooter.

Your also a very good defender. How have you seen your development as a defender overseas. What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Coming overseas from college it was definitely a big learning curve of how to play defense in the European game but over the years I was able to get better and better. I still feel like there’s room to grow in pressuring 94 feet every game, every possession.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

The area of my game that needs the most improvement is rebounding, that’s something I’m trying to be more intentional about.

Last season you beat Neftci in a 6 game finals series. You had many good games. What memories will you always have from winning the title?

I enjoyed our ability to regather ourselves and come together as a group to finish out the series. It was very cool moment winning that championship

You played briefly with New Taipei CTBC DEA (Taiwan-TPBL) averaging 24.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, 1.0spg. What was it like playing in the far east? What was the biggest adjustment for you on and off the court?

I really enjoyed my time in Taiwan! It was a nice place to live and the league was exciting to play in. My biggest adjustment on the court was the 48 minute game instead of only 40 minutes. I don’t think I really had any big adjustments off the court

You played the 2023-2024 season with NHSZ-Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 78.4%. You won your first chip with the cup. How special was this title for you? The cup is such a special competition. How did you experience it?

It was really special winning the cup with all that the team went through that year. Even though we won the cup it would’ve been even better finishing out a real championship but we fell short in the finals to Falco

You split the 2022-2023 with 2 teams with King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 62.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 47.6% and with Rawlplug Sokol Lancut (Poland-EBL) averaging 13.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 73.9%. It was your second season in Poland. What did you learn about the business side of it that season?

That season taught me that not every situation or every season will be perfect but you have to remain professional and consistent in your approach.

You played your first season in Poland with Twarde Pierniki Torun (Poland[1]EBL) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT: 65.3%. You lost a tough playoff series against Anwil. What do you remember being the hardest thing to do as a team to try to win that series?

Trying to win on the road was the toughest challenge because Anwil’s fans give them a great home court advantage

You played your rookie season with CSM Galati (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 13.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 72.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Getting off the plane in Bucharest and then not having phone service on the 3 hour drive to Galati. I was a bit shell shocked. My first year overseas was definitely rough but it prepared me for the rest of my journey

You were teammates in the second half of the season with American Drew Brandon. How vital was it having a vet like that as a rookie. What could you soak up most from his game?

Drew was a great vet when he came the team and we did a 180 and was able to make it to the playoffs. I think what I took from him was his approach to the game. He was very sharp mentally

You played at Tuskegee University (NCAA2) playing 101 NCAA 2 games. You were able tó improve your scoring and rebounding averages each season. Your game really grew in your last 2 seasons averaging 16.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 71.9% and 19.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 69.7%. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons?

I think it was really just my approach to the game, I wanted to be the best player in the conference that year and I think I accomplished that

You had so many great games in the NCAA 2 against schools like Albany State and Spring Hill. What was your personal favorite game there?

I think one of my favorite moments was the game I reached 1000 points. I think I needed around 27-28 points and before the game I told my teammates I was going to get it.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Travis Flagg?

Love him to death but he’s too small so I’d say me lo

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

At the D2 level there’s not many people that reach the NBA but Rodnerius Lewis and Tyrius Walker were some of the better players I played against

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Maurice Watson, Anfernee Simons, Myles Thomas, Demajeo Wiggins, Trevor Thompson

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Jordan, Kobe, Steph

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron is the best player to ever touch a basketball!

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

I think I seen it once, and I honestly don’t think it was that bad. Definitely not close to the first one but it’s a decent movie.

Thanks James for the chat.