baseball

Marc Friederici Achieved 2 Promotions In A Row With Wolmirstedt And Essen But The Second Was Most Special Because He Achieved The Gold Medal

pic credit: Shot by Frogg

Marc Friederici (188-PG-2001) is a 25 year old 188cm guard that completed his first season with Pro B team ETB Miners Essen averaging 11.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 74.7% and helped them move up to the Pro A. He played from 2023-2025 with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt (ProB) averaging 10.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 82.5% and 7.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 76.6% helped them move up to the Pro A in 2025. He also has had further experience with WSG Koenigs Wusterhausen, Dresden Titans and Lok Bernau. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the Pro B season 2025-2026

Thanks Marc for talking to eurobasket.com. This was such a special season for the ETB Miners. Why was this team so special?
I think it started on the very first day, with the very first meeting we had as a team, where Rafi made it very clear how everything works and how things are supposed to function. And then all the people we are as individuals just fit together really well. A few who were already in Essen, Niklas, who brought a lot of experience as a veteran. And then, you really have to say, Rafi and Lars did an incredible job finding the right characters who fit together, while also bringing the motivation every single day in training to improve individually and as a team. I must say it was already special in Wolmirstedt, but Essen definitely topped it in that regard.

The team lost only 5 games during the regular season. Was their a game during the season where you then knew, we will win the whole thing?
I think there were only four losses during the regular season, and the fifth was the loss against Ulm. Setting that aside, I came from Wolmirstedt with the mindset of wanting to get promoted again this year and this time finishing the season with a gold medal around my neck. With that mindset, I went into every training session. I wouldn’t say I knew it from the very beginning, but I consciously told myself every single day that we were going to win.

How vital was head coach Lars Wendt for the success? What was his biggest ability as a coach to be able to help bring success to the team?
I think he was a great help. Ultimately, he is our head coach and tells us what we should and shouldn’t do on the court. We all implemented that, and in the end, everyone contributed their part.

How special was it sharing the back court with Mychael Paulo? What part of his game will you always remember best?

The guy just has an incredible skill set – the way he gets his shot off is unbelievable. Even with a defender basically glued to his face, he can still create his shot and doesn’t get rattled by anything. I found that incredible

How valuable were bigs Ben Uzoma and Niclas Sperber? What was each player’s biggest attribute for the success?

Beno had a tough start to the season coming out of the summer with his injury, but once he found his rhythm, he was a key factor in every single one of our wins. The rebounds he grabbed and how strong he was under the basket – basically no one could guard or contain him down low. Niclas, especially at the beginning of the season, immediately made it clear where the journey was heading. He had two or three games with almost 30 points and consistently helped us throughout the season. Even when he didn’t have great shooting nights and only scored 2, 3, 4, or 5 points, his experience and the threat he poses on the floor alone created a lot of space and made us much harder to defend as a team.

Which player was the most improved during the season?

In my opinion, definitely Gabriel Jung. In every aspect
You averaged 11/4/2/1 stats and shot 32% from outside. How content were you with your season?

I came to Essen with three goals. The first one was clearly set by Rafi and was stats-related: to average an efficiency rating of over 10. My personal goals were to earn promotion with the team and win the gold medal. The third goal was to grow as a person and as a leader, regardless of statistics. I think I made huge strides in that area. I was able to help guide the team in a direction that made it possible for us to win the championship. Of course, that wasn’t my achievement alone, but I accomplished what I set out to do. So even though I believe there is always room for improvement when it comes to stats, I am more than satisfied with the season.

You upped your scoring again this season. What steps did you make as a player again this season?

As I briefly mentioned in the previous answer, one of my biggest goals was to grow as a leader of the team. I believe I achieved that, and I think that growth, combined with the trust of the coaching staff, put me in a position where I was able to play freely and embrace my role as one of the team’s leaders. That also allowed me to make a bigger impact on the court and help the team succeed.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer so you can continue to improve your game?

Ballhandling against pressure, scoring in the paint, Shooting

Are you ready for the Pro A in 26-27 or will you remain in the Pro B?

I’m ready for the Pro A.

Thanks Marc for the chat.

Sam Griesel Knows That The Togetherness And Toughness Throughout The Season Was Key For Alba Berlin Winning the 2026 easyCredit BBL Title

pic credit: Alba Berlin

Sam Griesel (200-G/F-2000, college: Nebraska, agency: LUMANI 10.7) is a 26 year old 200cm guard that completed his third pro season overseas and first with Alba Berlin helping win the 2026 easyCredit BBL title averaging 6/2/1 stats and in the BCL averaged 7/2/2. He played his first 2 pro seasons in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn averaging 7/3 and 9/3 in the BBL and in the BCL averaged 8/3 and 6/2. 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 winning the 2026 BBL title.

Congrats Sam on winning the 2026 easyCredit BBL title. How good does it feel to win that first pro chip?

It´s really hard to put into words. I´m just insanely grateful for winning the title. I know how many guys not even reach a final in a career. So just to be able to say I won is a very special feeling.

How big was the incentive to win after losing the cup? Granted it was against Bamberg, but you showed during the whole season that the team could grow further and be successful.

I remember when we lost the cup to Bamberg, we as a team were talking after how we still had big ambitions and goals in the season. We kept grinding until we reached the final. I remember how we as a team stressed in game 1 in Munich that we weren´t going to feel heart break again like in the cup. It was a full circle moment.

That was just a exciting series against FC Bayern Munich. One could call Alba Berlin the game 5 king Do you feel like the experience against Vechta and Bamberg helped the team in game 5 again t Munich?

Yes it did in a way. We had a special approach. I mean we had done it before against Vechta and Bamberg so why not again? Even when we were down 20 points at the break, we were confident that we could come back. We never gave up. We spoke about going out and having fun and let me tell you we had fun.

It looked like FC Bayern Munich might win it at the end, but Alba Berlin always had an answer. Was your will just a bit more than them?

I can´t speak for Munich, but our will was always big. We had gone through so much adversary the whole season. Many had doubted us at the start of the season. I think that and all the adversary we went through the whole season brought us a lot closer. We always wanted to out work teams. Our togetherness and toughness through out the season helped us win the title

Andi Obst hit big shots at the end, but also missed big shots. Were you praying a bit at the end?

Yes I was. I watched the end of the game again, because I hadn´t seen it. I watched the 2 Obst shots at the end. I thought that first one was going in and the second one looked perfect from the motion. But then it bounced around a bit and we got the rebound and the rest is history. You just try to guard him as best as possible and of course pray.

How big was the will to win from Jonas Mattissek who is one of the identity figures of the team? He really stepped it up in game 5.

Not only was Jonas incredible, but Malte Delow as well. Jonas began well making some three´s early on and I´m just so happy for both of them. They are from Berlin and our identity figures. It was so special for them.

How was the train ride home? Did it feel like a long ride or did it go by rapidly?

I feel like it went by fast, but at the same time, it felt like it took long. The atmosphere was great. I enjoyed the moment. It was so hectic and hard to walk around in the train. There was a lot of music and beer. I apologize to the DB (German train association) for how we left our cabin.

The Vechta series was back and forth. What do you feel like was the difference in that series?

I think that key in all 3 series was our toughness and togetherness. Vechta ended the season strong and took that momentum into the playoffs. That helped them against us and they also have high level players. They punched us in game 1 and we could steal one there. It was very hot in Vechta in their small gym and they have good fans. We took momentum from game 4 into game 5 at home. We always believed in ourselves to win the series.

Jack Kayil and Martin Hermannsson combined for 39 points in game 5. Where would the team have been without them?

I think one could ask that question for the whole season. They were our main creators, but also scorers. Martin had so much experience from Euroleague and still plays at a high level. Jack is up and coming and a great athlete. I hope he gets drafted tonight. I´m really proud of his season. We relied on both of them very much the whole season.

Against Bamberg you led 2-0, but they forced a game 5. Did Alba Berlin feel to comfortable?

I guess one could say that, but at the same time, Bamberg was very talented. They played together just like us and the cup win against us also brought them better together. We knew that they would be tough, because they had swept Ulm. We always stayed with them. We won one on road. We knew game 5 would be a fight and stayed together and won.

In game 5 Alba Berlin won by 31 points. 6 guys scored in double figures. Was that one of the best team efforts of the season?

Yes it was. It was hard to top that one.

The team faced a lot of adversary this season. What made the team so special in 2025-2026?

I think that besides our togetherness and toughness, we all had a chip on our shoulders including head coach Pedro Calles. His chip carried over to all of us. We all felt like we had something to prove. We all shared that feeling. Plus everyone was unselfish. All wanted to win.

I think that Pedro Calles was as good of a candidate to win coach of the year. How vital was his in game coaching especially in the playoffs?

His approach to each game was huge. His coaching was a grind for us players, but at the same time it was also very demanding mentally for the coaching staff. It was like a chess game. What could we change up each new game? But we didn´t really change so much, but we focused more on ourselves and imposed our will on them. We didn´t change anything in game 5, but just played with more energy, physicality and played our style.

Jack Kayil will probably get drafted. How did his game grow further so he can make the next step in the NBA?

I knew Jack for 10 months. I saw right away that he was an incredible talent that was very athletic. The way he was a floor general for his age was very impressive. I think that his IQ really improved and scouts began to notice. His confidence and mentality also continued to grow through out the season.

How valuable was Justin Bean at both ends of the court? What did you appreciate most about his game?

His energy was so big for our success and hard to match from opponents. It was really fun to play with him. His versatility is also a huge part of his game. I appreciated his rebounding the most. His knack to get key rebounds the whole season was huge.

How valuable was Norris Agbako´s presence each day in the paint? How did his game grow?

He was a big tall presence no matter what. He was a hard worker with a high IQ. He had already played for Pedro before and knew his system and that helped his game. He was a great teammate.

Malte Delow has been with Alba Berlin since the youth and won titles with Franz Wagner at the youth and pro level. How valuable was he on a daily basis for your game? What could you learn from him?

Malte and I have similar games. We are both versatile. He is a very hard worker that was always in the gym. He loves basketball. I learned a better feel for the game and soaked up some of his IQ as well.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malte Delow?

We never really went 1-1, but I would call it a tie.

Let´s talk about your game. You averaged 6/2/1 in 19 minutes. How content with your effort?

I think I played my role well. I was content with my season. I wasn´t always so proud how I played, but I had some good games. I would like to be more consistent in the future.

You averaged 4 minutes more than in Bonn. How was your role different this season?

My role was pretty similar to Bonn. I was that guy that did a bit of all and is a solid defender.

How did you see your game grow further this season with Alba Berlin?

I think that my IQ really profited being around so many Euroleague guys. My IQ had always been decent, but I think it rose another level this season.

What was your favorite personal game of the season?

Game 5 in Munich.

Who was the toughest player that you faced this season?

Andi Obst without question.

What is the next step for you? Will you remain with Alba Berlin?

I will remain with Alba Berlin.

How do you rate the Giannis trade to Miami?

I´m very excited. It will be interested to see how they play.

Who will reach the World Cup soccer final and win it?

USA-Germany and USA will win.

Versatility Has Helped Finish Guard Aaron Ekwere(Pantterit Helsinki) Be Able To Adapt To Playing With Different Teams And Systems

Aaron Ekwere (190-G-2006) is a 19 year old 190cm guard from Finland playing this season with Pantterit Helsinki (1st Division) 25,6ppg, 8,3rpg, 5,6apg and 3,4spg and with Drive Academy Espoo U20 team (EYBL U20). He began his basketball career with Pyrinto Akatemia B Tampere (1st Division). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Aaron for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your career. Your from Finland. When did you began to play and was there a moment that you will never forget that brought you that early love for the game?

I started basketball at four but I have always been around basketball and I have always loved id so it is impossible to just pick one moment that made me fall in love with it.

Who were your early basketball players inspirations?

Russel Westbrook has always been my favorite player and somebody who I have always been inspired by.

Did you have any early basketball mentors in your career with Pyrinto Tampere?

I have tons of good coaches and older teammates who have guided me in my journey but if I had to name a few then i would have to mention my former teammate Kion Williams and coach Kari Kilpinen and Santeri Liljeberg.

You were 16 years old when you made your debut with PyrintoAkatemia B Tampere (1st Division) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 50.0% How valuable was that season playing with men already?

I feel like that season was very important for preparing me for playing more physical and against grown men

You gained valuable experience from 2023-2025 playing with theDrive Academy London U20 team (United Kingdom-EYBL U20) averaging 19.3ppg, RPG-5 (11.7), 4.0apg, SPG-3 (3.4), 1.2bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 54.7%. and 17.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.2apg, SPG-3 (3.3), FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 54.5%, played also at Drive Basketball Academy Black (U19 League, starting five) How did your game grow that season?

I feel like I became a more well rounded in my game improving on my weaknesses

You won the U-19 Finnish title twice. Which title was sweetest?

Definitely the last one because the final was played in my home city and the game went to overtime

This season your playing with Pantterit Helsinki (1st Division) averaging 24/7/5/4 stats. Is it fair to say this has been your career break through?

Yeah definitely I feel like my game has developed to the next level and it has been nice to see my hard work paying off

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

I have grown since so I currently stand at 198 so right now I would compare my game to prime Ben Simmons or Russel Westbrook

If one views your stats this season, it looks like a Russell Westbrook stat line. How big is versatility in your game?

I feel like it is a very big part of my game and a big reason I can adjust to playing with different teams and systems

You’re a great rebounder for your height. Have you always had that special knack to grab rebounds?

Yea it´s just something I have always been good at even if I´m not the biggest guy on the team

What kind of a defender would you describe yourself? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I would describe myself as a very versatile defender and I can guard many positions and I can do a lot of positive things for my team in the defensive end. I definitely still want to improve on the quickness of my feet so I can apply even more pressure on the ball

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

Shooting is my biggest weakness and something I try to improve on so I can develop my game

You have been a junior national player for Finland. How is the state of Finnish basketball? What young prospects can you report about at the moment that we should look for?

Finnish basketball is definitely on the rise which you can see from the 4th place finish in eurobasket last year. Iwould definitely tell everybody to keep an eye on Joseph Tala and Luca Bah. They are very promising Finish young prospects

You had a solid showing at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket in Tampere (Finland) in 2024 averaging 9.1ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 40.0%. You had good games against Greece and Spain. What memories will you always have of that first big youth tournament?

Definitely the memory I´m most fond of is our upset win against Lithuania on opening day

You poured it up a notch with your game at the FIBA U20 EuroBasket in Heraklion (Greece) in 2025 averaging PPG-5 (16.9), 5.7rpg, 2.1apg, SPG-2 (2.6), FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 66.0%. You had a great game against Germany scoring 25 points, but lost a heartbreaker 82-81. What memories do you have of that game?

I still think about that game weekly because I missed the tying shot in the last second so I tend to blame myself for that loss. Definitely something that has given me motivation though

Who is the toughest player that you ever battled in your life that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

In a game the toughest has to be either Hugo Gonzalez or Neoklis Avdalas but in practice Lauri Markkanen is the best player I have battled against.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Okku Federiko, Olavi Suutela, Elmeri Abbey, Abdullah Amzil, Eetu Heinonen

Please name your NBA, Euro and Finnish Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time for each category?

NBA: Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Kobe Bryant

Euro: Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Dirk Nowitzki and Gannis

Finland: Lauri Markkanen, Hanno Möttölä, Petteri Koponen and Sasu Salin

Who is your Goat?

Lebron James.

Thanks Aaron for the chat.

Toru Dean Wants To Continue To Move Up The Professional Basketball Ladder After Winning His First Chip Overseas With The TSV Bargteheide Bees

That the German Regionalliga showcased real American winners in the 2025-2026 season is no understatement. The South west had Miles Mallory who had won numerous titles in the NCAA 3 and as a rookie in Karlsruhe and did it again in his third professional season in Reutlingen. But not only the south boasted a winner, but also the north with Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston). The Florida native had won 2 SAC titles with Langston University, OK and just missed winning a NAIA title as well. He came overseas in 2025 and joined the TSV Bargteheide Bees and bang cranked out his first pro chip. He showed his leadership qualities right away overseas as a rookie as his winning qualities transformed over from the NAIA level to the Regionalliga. “Winning my first championship as a professional definitely means a lot. You work your whole life to compete at the professional level, so to win in my rookie season is something special. It validated all the hard work I put in over the years and showed me that I belong at this level”, stressed Toru Dean. But how was it different winning that first pro title in comparison to winning at the college level? “Winning in college was amazing, especially at Langston University because we built a strong culture there. But winning as a pro feels different because everybody is older, more experienced, and basketball becomes your job. There’s more pressure and more sacrifice involved. It just hits differently because you know how hard it is to win professionally”, stated Toru Dean.

The explosive scorer who is a mix of Chris Paul and Patrick Beverly came overseas in the summer of 2025 and soon didn´t have the all around warm weather like in Florida, but felt the cooler weather of north Germany. On the court he quickly adjusted as he was able to play his game and help his team have a real magical season. But what was his first impression of the team when he arrived in August 2025? Would he have believed someone if they had predicted then that the Bees would win it all? “Honestly, I probably would have believed it after seeing the talent we had in training camp. We had a group that competed every day, and the chemistry came together quickly. I knew we had something special early on”, remembered Toru Dean. The Bees didn´t waste anytime starting the season on a 7 game winning streak and quickly taking control of the standings. “That winning streak was huge for us. It gave us confidence and helped us build trust in each other right away. Winning early created momentum and showed the league that we were serious contenders. I think that stretch really laid the foundation for our championship mentality”, said Toru Dean. The only 2 teams that had the Bees number during the regular season was Charlottenburg winning both games and Braunschweig who won once. What made it difficult playing these 2 teams? “Those two teams were tough because they were disciplined and very physical. They also had a lot of experience and could punish mistakes. Against teams like that, every possession matters, and during the regular season we didn’t always execute the way we needed to”, added Toru Dean. The Bees knew going into the playoffs that they had to present themselves differently as they would have to face both teams again in the playoffs. “We learned that details matter in playoff basketball. We cleaned up our turnovers, communicated better defensively, and trusted each other more in pressure situations. By playoff time, we were mentally tougher and more prepared”, warned Toru Dean.

The Bees arrived into the playoffs prepared winning 6 of their last 7 games, but had to be on their toes as they faced Braunschweig first who had beat them on a few weeks earlier. The Braunschweig series went down to the wire. The Bees buckled down and won an exciting 78-77 game 3 over Braunschweig. Was that a top 3 most thrilling games in his career? “Absolutely. That Game 3 against Braunschweig was one of the most exciting games I’ve ever played in. The atmosphere was crazy, and every possession felt like life or death. Those are the games you dream about as a kid”, warned Toru Dean. The Bees then lost game 1 in the finals to Charlottenburg 91-89 and then had 2 do or die games. The team really reacted after that showing that they could handle adversary with excellence. “After losing Game 1, nobody panicked. We stayed together and focused on what we needed to improve defensively. We started playing with more urgency and energy, and I think our toughness really showed in those final two games”, remembered Toru Dean. In the finals series he faced a real sniper in German Marley Jean-Louis who had showcased his shooting abilities in the Pro A. Did a competitor like that heighten his game to new levels? “Marley Jean-Louis is a very talented player and definitely somebody you have to respect. Competing against experienced players like that always motivates me because you want to prove yourself against high-level competition. Those matchups bring out the best in you”, stressed Toru Dean. The final buzzer sounded and 8 months of hard work had finally paid off. What was his first thoughts when the buzzer sounded in game 3 against Charlottenburg? “My first thought was honestly just gratitude. I thought about my family, my teammates, and everybody who supported me through the journey. The thing I’ll always remember most is celebrating with the guys in the locker room because we really became a family over the season”, added Toru Dean.

The team was a scoring machine and buckled down on defense consistently the whole season. Being able to shine at both ends and being able to buy into the system from coach Sukran Gencay was key for having success. “I think our biggest strength was balance. We could score in a lot of different ways, but we also took pride in defending. When you have a team that’s connected on both ends of the floor, you become very difficult to beat”, remembered Toru Dean. The American had a supporting cast that was also key for the success. One of those players was German Abulai Abaker who was another potent guard that filled the stat sheet like no other. Did he become like a brother to him? “Me and Abulai definitely became close throughout the season. He brought toughness, energy, and passion every single day. What I’ll remember most is how hard he competed no matter the situation”, said Toru Dean. German Marcel Hoppe proved to be a real walking bucket. How much easier did he make his life during certain phases of the game? “Marcel made life much easier because defenses always had to account for him. He could get hot at any moment and completely change a game. Having a teammate like that takes pressure off everybody else”, answered Toru Dean. 2 other vital players for the success were Simonas Paukste and Yngve Jentz. They were those vital role players that simply always did their jobs. “Simonas and Yngve were extremely important for us. They did a lot of the little things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. They brought energy, communication, and professionalism every single day in practice and games”, explained Toru Dean.

The versatile guard who lists NBA players Anthony Edwards and Scottie Barnes as his toughest foes ever on the court and the game 3 win over Braunschweig as his favorite game of the season had an exceptional rookie season averaging 20/4/7/3 and won awards at Eurobasket.com including player of the year and import player of the year. “Overall, I was very happy with my rookie season. Of course, there are always areas where I can improve, but I felt like I adjusted well to the European game and proved that I can impact winning in multiple ways. Those awards mean a lot because they reflect the respect people had for my season. At the same time, none of that happens without my teammates and coaches. Individual awards are great, but winning the championship is what matters most to me”, stressed Toru Dean. He scored in double figures in most games and had season highlights against Charlottenburg with 33 points, 32 points against Braunschweig and 31 points against Oldenburger TB. “I think my game matured overseas. I became more patient, learned how to read defenses better, and improved my ability to control the pace of the game. Playing professionally forces you to grow mentally as much as physically”, stated Toru Dean. He never averaged more than 4,0apg in the NAIA, but doubled that in the Regionalliga. He had multiple games where he dished out more than 10 assists in a game. What kind of a playmaker did he become in Germany? “I became more of a complete floor general in Germany. I learned when to attack, when to create for others, and how to make the right reads consistently. I took pride in getting my teammates involved”, remembered Toru Dean. But he didn´t only shine on the offensive end, but also showed his 2 way abilities making an impact on the defensive end. He almost averaged 4,0spg in the Regionalliga. How did his defensive game grow further overseas? “My defensive growth came from effort, film study, and understanding angles better. Overseas basketball is very tactical, so I had to become smarter defensively. I wanted to impact the game on both ends every night”, warned Toru Dean. He was an absolute menace getting to the hole, but shot only 25% from outside. Is shooting one of his main focuses this summer? “Shooting is one of the biggest areas I’m focused on this summer. I know improving my consistency from three will open up even more opportunities for me and make me a more complete player”, added Toru Dean. What is the next step for him? Unfortunately the Bees won´t move up to the Pro B, because of certain ramifications beyond the control of the organization. Could he imagine staying in Germany? The Pro B has to be a realistic goal for him. “The next step is continuing to climb and compete at a higher level. I could definitely see myself staying in Germany because I had a great experience there. Playing in the Pro B is absolutely a goal, and ultimately I want to keep moving up as high as possible”, warned Toru Dean. It will be interesting to witness where he will play next season. Wouldn´t it be beautiful to see Miles Mallory and Toru Dean battling each other in the Pro B next season?

Will Devonte McCall Remain In Germany As His Special Game Just Makes Fans Fall In Love With It?

Pic credit: Angel Media

It was the last game day in the German Pro A and the EPG Baskets Koblenz were on the road in Giessen. Having to hit free throws at the end where the Giessen fans are chanting is always a real challenge for the opponent. It was more than obvious going into the contest that the EPG Baskets Koblenz were the underdog and it showed on the court as they were destroyed 88-69. Koblenz lost the battle on the boards and at the free throw line. A little less than 2 months earlier, it looked like the turning point of the EPG Baskets season had occurred in Crailsheim where American Julian Larry won the game with a spectacular buzzer beater. Instead of taking that superb momentum and riding with it into the next games and having a winning streak, the team underachieved finishing the season mostly with loses. There were many factors why the team couldn’t finish the season strong. One player who was instrumental at both ends of the court was 2 way player Devonte McCall (198-F-1998, college: Post) who finished the loss in Giessen with 14 points, 5 boards, 2 steals and 2 blocks. He as usual gave all he had making an impact at both ends and was one of the leaders in the last weeks holding the team together as best as possible together with Julian Larry. ‘I just wanted Koblenz to remember me in a good way, hopefully I left a good impression’, warned Devonte McCall.

Pic credit: Angel Media

The athletic forward who is a mix between Jaylen Brown/Kawhi Leonard came to the EPG Baskets Koblenz and observed how the team finished the season in 14th place with a record of 13-20. One also has to wonder what would of happened in the Koblenz season had the team had the services of Ohio native Tim Smith Jr who played his last game in Crailsheim in mid March. It was a season of what if’s. ‘I think every season has what if’s, the last 2 months were a whirl wind’, said Devonte McCall. After the incredible buzzer beater win in Crailsheim the EPG Baskets Koblenz finished the season losing 7 of 8 games. The team lost close games against Paderborn and Tuebingen. Could the club have reached the playoffs had they received a few more breaks? ‘ I think the team had a rough stretch, but there was a time in the season I thought we’d be in Playoffs’, remembered Devonte McCall. There were too many games during the whole season plus in the last 8 games where the defense was unacceptable allowing 90 points per game. Why couldn’t the team be more of a successful defensive teams seemed to be a mystery. ‘I’m not really sure, I think we were just an offensively minded team’, said Devonte McCall. The club was a great offensive team and really shone in that area averaging 85 points per game. It must have been really joyful playing offense for Stephan Doehrn? ‘It was a lot of fun. He gave us a lot of confidence offensively. Not too many bad shots in the offense’, stated Devonte McCall. The mental side was also an issue for the team. Too often when the opponent made runs, they couldn’t punch back as a team. Did runs get inside the players heads to a degree that it couldn’t be fixed? ‘BasketballI is a game of runs, I think it had more to do with letting calls get into our head’, remembered Devonte McCall.

The American who played 2 seasons at Post University (NCAA2) had already had great teammates with Phoenix Hagen and the wiha Panthers Schwenningen and it wasn’t any different with the EPG Baskets Koblenz. He won’t forget being teammates with team MVP candidate Calvin Wishart who’s play was infectious. ‘Calvin is a dog. He always came with heart. Would’ve been nice to play a whole season with him’, added Devonte McCall. American Julian Larry gave the team scoring, speed and added defensive pressure. ‘I loved Julian’s game. He is a hard worker and was a real gym rat. He is going to be a great professional’, warned Devonte McCall. Another player that was a real work beast was DJ Jeffries who scored in double figures in 16 games and left a real lasting impression on him. ‘DJ Jeffries was a real work horse. He is one of the best players I have ever played with, I think he was super underrated this year’, said Devonte McCall. The team had many talented Germans. Would a guy like Alex Moeller be a good candidate for unsung hero award? ‘Alex did a ton of dirty work that went underappreciated. Same goes for Marlo Bacak’, remembered Devonte McCall. Moeller didn’t only do the dirty work, but at times carried the team in difficult phases and scored in double figures 9 times. Badu Buck is a guy that could get hot at anytime as well as make big plays on defense. He is also a very jovial guy. Who could forget his 18 points in the big win over Wolmirstedt? ‘Badu always kept the energy up no matter what was going on. Great guy to have as a captain, jovial is a perfect word’, stated Devonte McCall. One guy who made big strides was German Jannis Sonnefeld who averaged 4,8ppg and 3,0rpg after averaging 1,7ppg 2 seasons ago with Pro A teamTrier. ‘I would say Jannis Sonnefeld was our most improved player. He’s going to be good’, warned Devonte McCall.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Devonte McCall in Koblenz

The ex Westminster student averaged 10ppg and 4,3rpg in 22 minutes per game. It was his third season where he averaged double figures in scoring after averaging 7,9ppg last season with Phoenix Hagen. ‘I thought I played okay. I could have finished better around the rim, didn’t have my best legs’, remembered Devonte McCall. It is never easy to fully show one’s offensive skills where any player on the team can score 15-20 points per game. Was he able to take full advantage of his opportunities on offense? ‘Yea I just took the opportunities that came to me. It’s always tough in Pro A, there’s always so many great scorers on a given team’, said Devonte McCall. He has always been a player that made a big impact on the defensive end and it wasn’t any different this season in Koblenz. ‘I could communicate better, be better off the court breaking down offenses, it’s a team game, not just individual’, expressed Devonte McCall who lists the buzzer beater win in Crailsheim ending their winning streak as his fondest moment this season. He knows exactly what 2 areas of his game he will work on most this season so he will be best prepared wherever he lands in 2026-2027. ‘My jumper always, and my off the dribble game, which I didn’t get to show too much of’, added Devonte McCall. It will be interesting to see where he plays in 2026-2027. It would only be logical that he remains in Germany. He will never forget the EPG Baskets Koblenz fans. ‘I loved the fans in Koblenz. I would love to see them be successful and be a basketball city’, stressed Devonte McCall. Any fans for any basketball team especially in Germany would appreciate the hard-nosed game of Devonte McCall at both ends.

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.