basketball

Rookie Gabe Dorsey(Patrioti Levice)t Has Held His Own In Slovakia And The BCL And Is Keen On Becoming A 2 Way Player

Gabe Dorsey (198-G/F, college: William & Mary) is a 198cm forward from Pennsylvania playing his rookie season with Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He began his basketball career at the Hill School. He then played one season at Vanderbilt (NCAA) before finishing at the College Of William And Mary (NCAA) where he played from 2022-2025. In his last 2 years he averaged 14.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.0% and : 13.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 81.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

Thanks Gabe for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season overseas for Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

It’s been a great experience overall. Of course there are always peaks and valleys with every season, but I’ve gained a lot of valuable experience and played in multiple important games in just the last few months. I’ve enjoyed playing on the Champions League stage the most. It’s been great playing in and having an impact in so many high level games in just my first season as a professional.

How have you adjusted to the Slovakian way of life? What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture?

I’ve adjusted pretty well, and the one thing I truly appreciate about the culture which has helped me adjust so well is the love and support from the fans in Levice. I’m very appreciative.

Patrioti Levice are the top team in the Slovakian league. The team is looking forward to winning it´s 5th league title in a row. How huge is the winning culture within the organization?

The winning culture is very important within this organization, and everyone from top to bottom recognizes that the ultimate goal is to continue to win championships.

How much fun is it playing on a team that is winning? What exactly is your role as a rookie?

It’s been very fun to play on a winning team, and this incentivizes continuing to win at a high level. My role as a rookie has been to do what I do best, and that is to make shots when the ball is swung to me.

How key has veteran Andre Wesson been for you? Has he been like a mentor for you? How has he helped your game most?

Andre has been very helpful for me as a veteran. He’s mainly reminded me to stay solid through the highs and lows of the season. He’s more so somebody who leads by example, and through watching him, I’ve picked up on a few tricks that he uses in order to score more and draw fouls. He’s very skilled at using his frame in the mid post and drawing contact in order to get himself to the free throw line, especially when his shot may not be falling as much as usual. I would like to incorporate those things into my game in the future.

Your playing a very strong rookie season in both the SBL and BCL. What has been your secret to adjusting so quickly to overseas ball?

I think my main focus which has helped me is to keep the main thing the main thing. I try to play to my strengths and not get outside of myself. My strength is my ability to shoot the ball with range, and I know that with such a skill, I can utilize it to open up other areas of my game. I have to continue to improve all around, but I think that has helped me to have the mild success I’ve had. However, I know I have plenty more to give.

Let´s talk some more about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

Klay Thompson. He is obviously a deadly three point shooter, and he has always utilized the threat of his long range ability to open up other aspects of his scoring repertoire. That is how I aspire to be.

Your shooting over 40% from outside in both competitions and shot over 40% in 2 of 3 seasons at William & Mary. Are you more than just a shooter? What other strengths does your game have?

I am more than just a shooter. Teams have focused more on running me off the three point line as of late, and I believe that I’ve shown flashes of my ability to be accurate in the mid range with floaters and other shots in that area. With the speed and physicality of the professional game, it’s obviously a lot different from college, so I recognize that I need to continue to get reps with every skill in order to become the player I aspire to become, which is not solely a three point shooter.

You’re a great shooter now. Is consistency your biggest goal now as a shooter. You have proven that you can shoot at a high clip in many seasons. How else can you continue to become a better shooter?

Consistency is an important goal of mine as a shooter, but also being quicker and more efficient with my release and as a movement shooter with or without the ball. I have to continue to improve as an off the dribble shooter, while also having the ability to fly off of screens, catch, and shoot quickly.

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

This is the area in which I would like to improve the most. I am a decent team defender and an average one on one defender, and I need to be better at having active hands on the ball and in passing lanes. I also need to get stronger in both my upper and lower body in order to absorb bumps better and stand my ground defensively. I ultimately want to become a two way player.

Your also credited as having an amazing work ethic. On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

I’ve been working the most on my floaters. With the way that defenders lunge out at me at the three point line, I can drive past guys with one or two dribbles and get to a comfortable runner in the lane over taller secondary defenders. I am continuing to improve at reading closeouts overall, recognizing when to shoot the three and when to attack or move the ball.

You played your freshman season at Vanderbilt (NCAA) but played only 21 games and averaged only 0,7ppg while getting only 6,6 minutes per game. This was a real learning experience for you. What positives could you gain from it?

That year definitely taught me a lot. I learned how to deal with adversity, and it led me to realize how much of playing basketball is a mental battle rather than physical. That year ultimately taught me that true confidence comes from within. You can’t look externally for something or someone to pick you up when you’re down. You have to have an impenetrable mentality and belief in yourself as a basketball player even through the lows that come with playing the game.

You credit your dad for transporting the love of the game to you as a kid. How vital was he after your growing pains at Vanderbilt? What advice do you remember him giving you?

My Dad and I are very close, and he has always allowed me the ability to talk to him about anything I’m going through. The main advice he continued to give me throughout that year is that in order to become a man, you have to fight through adversity with everything you have.

You then moved to the College of William & Mary (NCAA) averaging 10.9ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 76.9%, 14.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.0% and 13.4ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 81.3%. Was this the best basketball decision in your life?

I definitely believe transferring to William and Mary was the best basketball decision of my life. I developed into a high level basketball player there, and one of the best shooters in the country, just like I always believed I could become. More importantly I built relationships with many great people at the school and in the basketball program, which I will certainly cherish forever.

After being teammates in high school, you and brother Caleb were reunited again at William & Mary. He is a rookie in Slovenia. How has he helped your game most over the years?

Caleb has helped my game tremendously because he has always motivated me to become a better player. He’s older than me by more than a year, and he’s always been a talented all around player, so seeing him dominate ever since we were young always made me want to follow in his footsteps. He’s always been a very selfless player as well, so when we became teammates in high school, he was always setting me up for open looks and easy shots, allowing me to shine, and this carried over into our time at William and Mary.

You had many great games in the NCAA like hitting Hampton for 30 points and 7 three´s. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

I would say that game against Hampton that you mentioned is my fondest on court memory in the NCAA. Not only did I have 30 points with 7 threes and 7 rebounds, but I also reached the 1,000 point mark for my college career in that game as well. In addition, all of this took place while my parents, Grandmother, mine and Caleb’s oldest brother Josh, and many of my aunts and uncles were all in attendance, and the game was broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network.

How did head coaches Dane Fischer and Brian Earl groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I have a lot of love and respect for both Coach Fischer and Coach Earl, and I learned a lot from a great basketball mind in Coach Stackhouse at Vanderbilt as well. I deeply appreciate Coach Fischer because he really gave me a lot of confidence and support in my transition to William and Mary, when I needed it the most. He allowed me to play my game and he appreciated my skillset and who I was as a person. Coach Earl continued that but in a more subtle way, and I believe I also learned a lot more tactical and strategic things about the game in my year playing for Coach Earl. I’m able to think the game at a much higher level now because of it. I’ve carried these things forward, because confidence and basketball IQ are the two most vital attributes to have at the professional level outside of physical skill.

Who won a 1-1 in practice your or brother Caleb?

Caleb used to beat me all the time growing up because he has been taller and stronger than me our entire lives. But as we’ve matured, my shotmaking abilities have allowed me to counter his physical advantages, so our matchups are much more even. Nowadays neither of us solely beats the other every time.

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

I would say Jabari Smith Jr. My freshman year at Vanderbilt, we played against him at Auburn when he was also teammates with Walker Kessler, and he scored 30 points against us on mostly jump shots.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Caleb Dorsey, Xavier Mayo, Chase Audige, Matteus Case, Noah Collier (I apologize if I’m forgetting anyone)

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I actually have never seen Coming to America unfortunately, but that’s a movie that my teammates make fun of me for not having watched yet.

Wisdom Uboh’s (DBV Charlottenburg) Height Has Made It Challenging Getting In Certain Doors But Once In The Door He Proved People Wrong

Wisdom Uboh (178-PG, college: Columbus St.) is a 178cm guard that is playing his rookie season overseas with DBV Charlottenburg (Germany-Regionalliga) currently averaging 24,2ppg, 5,5rpg, 4,6apg and 1,5spg. He began his college career at Chattahoochee Valley Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.2apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 84.1%. He then played at Columbus State University (NCAA2) from 2021-2025 and in his last 2 seasons averaged 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 86.5% and 13.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 82.7%. He got his first pro experience with the Georgia Spartans (UBA) averaging 11.3ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-5 (2.5apg), Steals-5 (1.3spg), FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 35.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball last summer.

Thanks Wisdom on talking with germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? Not many guys from Columbus State have come overseas.

I appreciate you for talking to me and thank you it is a blessing. I feel like my dreams of becoming a professional basketball player are coming true. I feel extremely blessed to start that first step as well. And yes it is not easy going professional especially from a division 2 so I will not take it for granted.

You have a cool name with Wisdom. How did you get that name?

Thank you. I love my name. My parents are originally from Nigeria, and some Nigerians like to name the kids that they have with meaning. For instance my sister’s name is Precious and my brother’s name is Divine.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?

I know Germany has well respected leagues across the world and also has a lot of great players in the NBA, and a lot of hall of famers came from Germany. Therefore, I know Germany is no stranger to basketball, and are really talented and competitive.

Have you had any former teammates, opponents or friends play in Germany?

Yes I had a couple of old teammates and opponents play in Pro B. Also had a teammate that plays in Regionlliga.

How confident are you that you can be a impact player in the Regionalliga? How special is your heart?

I am very confident. All my career I have been extremely competitive so I know I will put my best foot forward every time. I hold myself to a very high standard.

Your only 178cm. I’m sure you have heard it all about your size. How challenging has basketball life been the last years always having to prove yourself?

The only thing that has been challenging to me is getting in certain doors. However, when I get in the door I prove people wrong time and time again.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 178cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare myself to an NBA player I would say a little bit of Isaiah Thomas, Jalen Brunson, and Fred Van Vleet.

You fill the stat sheet well. What are your biggest assets on the court?

My biggest Asset is my shooting, and coming off ball screens to create plays for myself and others.

You have shot the ball really well from outside the last years in the NCAA 2. Where do you see the development of your outside shot and what level do you still want to reach?

Over the years I have been more consistent, and making shots in different ways. Off the dribble, off the catch and any other way. I am still looking to improve. I want to be as efficient as possible.

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

I think I am a good defender. I like to speed people up and cause a disruption especially when opposing point guards set up the offense. I want to become better on ball defender though, and its always room for improvement.

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

Scoring off the dribble mainly pulling up and floaters and other finishing.

You began your career at Chattahoochee Valley Community College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.2apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 84.1%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that JUCO was tough, but an experience they would have traded the world for. How was it for you?

Yes I did, My time at Chattahoochee Valley was great, and it was actually under the head coach Ben Hicks. Juco is tough and it is not easy at all. I loved the experience because everyone on our team was mature and all new what we needed to do. Which was win games.

How valuable was head coach Ben Hicks in your early basketball development? How did he help you most?

He was great for my development and believed in me since day 1. He made me feel at home at CVCC, and I appreciate him till this day for it.

You played 4 years at Columbus State University (NCAA2) averaging 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 86.5% and 13.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 82.7%. Your game made big strides. How did your game grow in those last 2 years?

My game took a leap every year because I am around the game so much. Naturally that makes my game improve and I love adding different things to my game every year to make myself better.

You had 2 great games against USCB as a junior. In one game you had 8 steals. What memories do you have of that game?

That game was one of the craziest games I have been a part of because it went into 4 overtimes. The game was an overall good game with talented players.

You had so many great games in the NCAA 2 including 24 points against GSW which you won 78-75 going 6/8 from the field and 12/12 from the ft line. What was your fondest memory there?

That game was fun for me, because it’s on the road and it is a rivalry. Therefore, it will always be a rowdy crowd. In that type of environment and still being great in it was a great experience for me.

How did head coach Robert Moore groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach Robert Moore definitely played a part by watching film with me, showing me other guards from Columbus state that’s currently playing and also having the gyms available for me to get in and to workout in.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Gary Rakeim?

Me and Rakeim Gary never played 1-1. However the battles we had in practice were intense and enjoyable competition we both sharpened each other skills.

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

In terms of affecting the game I would say Walker Kessler. He was in my region in high school, and it just felt like his presence alone affected everything we were trying to do.

Please list your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Roman Son, Jarrett Adderton, Jehloni James , Kordell Brown. Joshua Guilford

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

My personal NBA mount Rushmore people might not like it. I’m going with Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Stephen Curry.

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

Yes, they definitely could have left it alone or just made a better movie.

Thanks Wisdom for the chat

Versatile Will The Thrill Carius(Patrioti Levice) Will Never Forget His Laettner Like buzzer Beater Against The Bakken Bears

Will Carius (205-F-1998, college: W.Illinois) is a 28 year old 205 cm forward from Pleasant Valley, Iowa playing his fourth professional season and first with Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He played the last 2 seasons with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 18.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 75.7% and (21.5), 7.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 73.8%. He played his rookie season with Nunawading Spectres (Australia-NBL One) averaging 21.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 72.2%. He began his basketball career with Pleasant Valley High School and then played 2 seasons at Northern Michigan University (NCAA2) averaging 9.8ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2% and 12.3ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 77.0%. He then played 2 seasons at Monmouth College (NCAA3) averaging 25.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 76.4% and 27.2ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 87.9%. He then finished at Western Illinois University (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 76.1% and 14.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 75.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

Thanks Will for talking to germanhoops.comYour playing your third season overseas for Patrioti Levice (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about it?

So far it has been a great experience in pretty much all aspects. First off great teammates that found a way to play at a high level together very quickly. Great coaching staff that has given us the tools and confidence to be successful and a management staff and fan base that has been extremely supportive every step of the way so far.

How have you adjusted to the Slovakian way of life? What have you learned to appreciate most about the culture?

Being in a smaller town I can appreciate the quiet, I went to college at a few universities in similar sized areas and am accustomed to it. It is nice to focus on basketball and make the most of the opportunities given. The fan base is very devout as well and has been so supportive and shown us a lot of love thus far and you can tell they have been very passionate about their home team for years.

Patrioti Levice are the top team in the Slovakian league. The team is looking forward to winning it´s 5th league title in a row. How huge is the winning culture within the organization?

It is something I have never been a part of in my career. Such high expectations from the jump but that’s the reason you play the game. You want to play in those big games, games that mean something, so I am excited for the opportunity to play in those situations because they don’t come about often.

How much fun is it playing on a team that is winning? What exactly is your role?

Winning makes a lot of things easier but keeping that momentum going is a challenge all on its own. So far I can’t question anyone’s effort on our team. Everyone comes to practice and games with the same goals and intensity and that makes it such a fun group to be a part of. Everyone is locked in on the same goals. My role from the beginning has been to just make plays in all facets of the game and be versatile. Being able to guard multiple positions defensively, take advantage of mismatches in the post offensively, as well as being able to stretch the floor from 3 when possible. Really just taking advantage of any opportunity I might see on the floor on either end and it has been a very fun freeing way to play.

Your playing a very strong season in both the SBL and BCL. What has been your secret to adjusting so quickly to leagues other than in Austria?

I think I have a lot of experience changing levels from AAU and college. AAU in high school you go from playing local teams to playing top recruits from all over the country. Same with moving up from D3 to D1, certain things you can get away with at a lower level you might not be able to with bigger, faster, more athletic players on the court. That is part of the challenge and I enjoy finding new ways to score and be effective, making an impact no matter what level of competition.

You had an incredible 33 point game and hit the buzzer beater against Bakken for the 100-98 OT win. What memories do you have of the last play.? Was it designed for you?

The most vivid memory I have of that game is just seeing the ball go in. It was such a cool moment and probably the best moment of my career so far. People can say it was a lucky shot but if you see some of the workouts I do over the summer, tough shots are something we work on. I think I was maybe the second or third option on the play, we ran a similar play to get Ricky his 3 to send us to overtime and they did a good job of taking that option away the second time around.

Many have compared that shot to the legendary shot by Christian Laettner shot in 1993 that helped Duke get back to the Final 4. Did you know the shot was going in as it left your hands?

I can’t say it felt perfect out of the hand. They defended it so well I didn’t get a good look at the rim until the ball was almost there. I was having an awful game from 3 that day as well but that’s the beauty of there only being 1 second left there was no time to worry about the shot, just trust your muscle memory.

Let´s talk some more about your game. You’re a 205 cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I have a hard time finding a perfect comparison of an NBA player with a similar game. I like to watch all positions and take bits and pieces from various players’ games. I think that’s where my pride in versatility on the floor comes into play.

You’re a player that offensively fills the stat sheet very well. What would you classify as your biggest offensive strengths?

I would say finding a way to be a mismatch. Typically if I’m being guarded by a larger player I can set faster screens or ghosts and take advantage of speed. If I’m guarded by a smaller player I can go into the post and make plays as well. I’m still learning ways to be more efficient with these mismatches but regardless of the defense I have confidence that I have the skills to be effective in those situations.

You have always been a solid shooter but never reached the 40% level in college and now. What are you main goals as a shooter as you continue to move up the basketball ladder?

I am definitely still working to continue improving my shooting efficiency. I’m not afraid of tough shots when the team needs them late in shot clocks and that can make a difference in percentages but that consistency piece when I do get open looks I need to take advantage of those as much as possible. I am always working to improve that aspect because it is probably one of the most important to have moving up levels of competition.

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I would say I am pretty versatile because I have the strength to guard many bigs but can keep guards in front effectively as well. There is room for improvement laterally when guarding very quick guards but I have come a long way defensively. I think if you went back and told any of my high school teammates that I became a solid defender at the professional level and they would probably laugh at you. That being said, it has become something I have actively tried to improve since my jump to division 1 in college and I am really proud of how far I’ve come in that aspect and continue to work towards becoming a reliable defender that a coach can trust to guard anyone on the floor.

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

Efficiency on offense is one of the most important, coming from a role in Austria where I was required to take a lot more shots for us to be successful. I had the luxury of using extra looks to get hot in a game. Now with our current team that role has shifted, I still have a solid offensive role but have to be more selective throughout the course of the game just because we have so many offensive weapons.

You played the last 2 seasons with IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 18.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 75.7%
and (21.5), 7.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 73.8%. You won a cup last season. How did your game grow in Austria?

I think it was a great place to continue building confidence in my game. On the offensive end and the defensive end. We had a great coach who allowed us to play free and that gave me room to see what parts of my game can be the most effective at the professional level with his support and confidence behind that. Winning that cup was my first professional trophy I have been able to lift and really gave a taste of what it takes to win something at the professional level.

You played your rookie season with Nunawading Spectres (Australia-NBL One) avergaing 21.2ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 72.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

The biggest wake up call was probably my first day pulling up google maps and saying, ‘wow I am really on the other side of the world from everyone I know.’ It was definitely an adjustment but I loved my time in Australia, made some great relationships and could not think of a better start to my professional career.

You played 2 seasons at Northern Michigan University (NCAA2) averaging 9.8ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.2% and 12.3ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 77.0%. How vital were these 2 years in your basketball development playing for Bill Sall? How did your game grow there?

It was a real rough start due to injuries and getting adjusted to living on my own for the first time. It was an 8 hour drive away from home (a trip that seems short now), navigating college classes and the demands of college hoops was a lot at first. I slowly got into a groove, found out what worked for me, and by the end of my second year there I had grown a lot as a person and found better ways to balance life, school and high level hoops.

You then played 2 seasons at Monmouth College (NCAA3) averaging 27.2ppg, 12.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 87.9% and 25.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 76.4%. These were 2 very enriching years on and off the court. Was this the best basketball decision in your life?

I would say it was a great decision. I look back on that time being closer to family even more fondly now that I am away for 9-10 months a year. I accomplished some great things and really found a new love for basketball during that time. It was also when I started seriously thinking about playing basketball professionally. I always had the dream to go pro but after those two seasons it actually looked like a possibility.

How fortunate do you feel were you to be coached by Todd Skrivseth? How did he help bring your game to another level at Monmouth?

He was a coach that saw my talents and the talents of those on our team and found a system that would work for us specifically instead of trying to force us into a mold. It was such a fun way to play and I respect him a lot for it. He has been a very successful coach at Monmouth and it is not by accident.

You then finished at Western Illinois University (NCAA) averaging 14.7ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 76.1% and 14.3ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 75.2%. You needed absolute no adjustment time. What kind of a player did you become at Western Illinois?

I found out early I would have to be a big piece of the team for us to be successful. We were a complete COVID year rebuild and only had a few guys with any D1 experience. About a month into practice one of our coaches told me, ‘you need to have the same offensive mindset you had at Monmouth for us to win any games this year.’ From then on it was like all second guessing in my mind was gone and I just hooped. I had to adjust my game a bit and get used to the size and speed of the level but I used that same confidence in my ability that I built at Monmouth to find ways to be effective.

How did head coach Rob Jeter give you that last vital added push and help groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

Coach Jeter was a guy who played professionally himself and he also had a D3 background so I think we could relate to each other’s situations a little. He has also coached plenty of players that have gone on to play pro so just being around someone with that experience in coaching players went a long way. He also helped me a ton with my mindset defensively and growing that part of my game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Luka Barisic?

If it was in the post Luka had this left handed hook from the baseline that was practically unstoppable from 15 feet in but if we were out on the perimeter in space I’d say I would have the advantage there. I would love to play against him again some day just to see how far we’ve both come!

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

Keegan Murray was probably the toughest matchup. I have guarded a ton of players in all positions and it is rare where I feel out matched defensively but the way he was scoring what I felt were tough forced shots over my contesting hand consistently was really impressive. It is really cool to see how well he has played in the NBA first off being an Iowa guy and second off because it makes me feel a bit better seeing him do the same thing he did to me to other NBA level guys.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Top 5 is so tough, I’ve had so many teammates that are really important to not only my career but to me personally as great friends. I will have to go strictly off the dream team on the court. At the point I have to put my current teammate Ricky McGill, he’s too tough. At 2 Michael Weathers, one of the craziest athletes I’ve seen. At the 3 Trent Massner I wish I had his stepback. At 4 Isaiah Roby probably has the best resume out of anyone I’ve played with. Finally he’s not even a 5 man but he’ll kill me if he’s not on my list and I’ll never hear the end of it, Vali Bauer just because he’s him.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

1. Steph Curry 2. Nick Young 3. Vince Carter 4. Michael Jordan 5. Dwight Howard

Who is your GOAT?

As a Bulls fan it has to be Michael Jordan

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

Yes I saw it, I love the og movie and the new one is far from perfect but getting more Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall in those roles was still so much fun to see.

Thanks Will for the chat.

2 Way Player Malik Miller(Donar Groningen) Is Like A Football Safety With High Anticipation Skills And Quick Feet With Good Physicality

Malik Miller is a 26 year old 192cm guard from Washhington DC playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen(Holland-DBL). He played his rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. He began his basketball career at Friendship Tech Prep Academy. He then played at Morgan State University(NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.

Thanks Malik for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? 

It’s been really good. I love the city and culture. It’s really been fun to play here. My best experience has been the home games, the crowd is amazing!! They really are into the game as much as the players. 

Last season as a rookie you played in Denmark. What are the biggest differences between Denmark and Holland on and off the court? 

The biggest difference is the physicality on the court. The refs let you play a little more. And off the court it’s pretty much similar, the city just has more people and it’s more things to do. 

The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again? 

It’s extremely important, I have great teammates and coaches, none of us have egos and we all have one goal which is to win. We understand the history of this club and we want to help get back to where it once was. We have the team to do it! 

What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. As a guard how has he helped your game move forward this season? 

It’s been great, the fact that he is American makes it way better because we can relate to a lot of things. But the way he coaches and how he holds us accountable which is really huge for our morale. He’s been helping my game a lot which has been one of the biggest takeaways I have honestly, he always sends film on the moves he teaches me so I can study it and see how effective it is to use it. 

You’re a player that can do everything at both ends. What exactly is your  role on the team? 

My role is to impact the game on every level so that I can help my team get the win. 

Let´s talk more about your game. You’re a 192cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? 

I would compare it to Jrue Holiday who is a really great defender, who can do a little bit of everything. 

You’re an incredible versatile player. Where was your versatility born as a player? 

I think it was born when I was around 8/9 years old and I played with all the older kids at the park. In order for me to get picked up I had to do whatever it took to impact my team winning and not be a liability. 

What stands out at first is your high rebound totals for a guard. You averaged 8,0rpg in your last 3 years at Morgan State and 7,0rpg as a rookie. What is the secret to your good rebounding and what are your goals with rebounding in the next seasons as you move up the basketball ladder? 

I wouldn’t say I have a secret, but I just have a knack for the ball. I’m also always in the right spot a lot of the time as well. My goal is to continue to keep being effective with being a rebounding guard especially since I know a lot of guards aren’t rebounding at this rate. 

Your also a guy that does it at both ends of the court. Would you classify yourself as a 2-way player now? 

Yes I would definitely consider myself that. I take pride in being that. 

How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become? 

I would describe it as being as being a safety on the football field, regarding to the fact that I have high anticipation skills and quick feet with good physicality. I am a good one-on-one defender and a very good off ball defender as well. However I would like to become a defender that knows how to use my physicality without fouling. 

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

I’ve been really focusing on improving my 3pt shot and ball handling. Also becoming a better pick n roll player.  

You played your rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home? 

My wake up call was me not being able to see my daughter. That was and still is the toughest thing for me. 

You lost a tough final series against Bakken, but won a exciting series against Randers where the last 2 games weren´t decided by more than 4 points. What will you always remember from that series? 

I’ll always remember how one of their players posted something on instagram about us and we took that as the utmost disrespect. So we stuck together game by game, we never got too high or too low because we knew they had some good players but we also knew how good our team was. 
 

You played at Morgan State(NCAA) from 2018-2023. How valuable was playing that fifth season? How did your game grow that one last step there? 

It was extremely important that was my breakout season where I gained the most confidence from my game. It made me grow a lot. I had to step up big time for us. I worked on my weaknesses day in and day out and it showed. 

You had many incredible games in the NCAA like having a buzzer beater against Temple, having a triple double against PS Wilkes Barre, almost having a triple double against PS Gtr Allegh and having a 32/12 game against SC State. What was your fondest moment there on the court? 

Those were some great moments, however my best moment was when I scored my 1000th career point at home. 

How did head coach Kevin Broadus groom and prepare you best for a professional career? 

He always held me accountable and pushed me to be better. Coach Chretch really prepared me though, he did so many little things for that took my game to another level my senior year. He challenged me off the court as well and he always made me be  

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Isaiah Burke? 

Unfortunately we never really played with just us 2, we would do king of the court with a couple other teammates. 

Your biggest influence is Lebron James and you have a engineering degree. How would you like to give back to the community one day? 

I would love to do a lot for my community, I would like to host annual Christmas giveaways, thanksgiving food drives, back to school events, and free basketball camps. I pray I’m able to do those things in the future! 

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

I’m not sure if he made the NBA or not  but he was really tough, I’ll say Phil Booth from Villanova. 

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? 

This a tough one I had a lot of great teammates but I have to go with the teammates I grew up with so I’m going with Derrick Love, Taron Oliver, Isaiah Burkes, Lagio Grantsaan, and De’Torrian Ware 

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore? 

This is my Mount Rushmore in no specific order but Steph Curry, LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Shaq 

Who is your GOAT? 

LeBron James 

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Ex Jimmy Mckinney Student Phillip Russell(Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim) Loves Sharing The Ball And Seeing Everybody Eat

The first thing that really stood out when I examined the career of overseas rookie Phillip Russell (178-PG-1999, college: VCU) was that he had balled at not 1 not 2 and not even 3 NCAA schools, but at 4. That is something that is extremely rare. But then after closer inspection, something else became rather interesting to me right away and that was that he had balled at Vashon High School in St louis. Since I have covered thousands and thousands of players in my life, remembering high schools isn´t actually simple, but with Vashon it was. Simply because I covered former Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney very closely for years when he balled in Germany and I just remember him being a stand out player there. The school´s most famous sports alumni has to be the boxing brother champs Michael and Leon Spinks and ex NBA player Elston Turner. Mckinney was never as famous as them, but he had a great career there and overseas as he began his overseas career almost 19.5 years ago. Russell not only won a high school title at Vashon like Mckinney did, but also played for him and will never forget him. “I have a close relationship with Jimmy McKinney. He was my high school coach he’s a wonderful role model for me. I was not aware that he began his career in Germany that’s sweet”, stressed Phillip Russell. Ex Jimmy Mckiney student Phillip Russell is playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim and loves sharing the ball and seeing everybody eat.

The guard who lists Muhammad Ali as his GOAT and current Phoenix Sun Jalen Green as his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on Feb 2, 1999 in St Louis, Missouri. As a senior at Vashon he averaged 15.7ppg, 4.5apg, 2.8rpg and won a HS MSHSAA Missouri Class 3 title in 2019. He began his NCAA career at Saint Louis University (NCAA) averaging 2.1ppg, 1.1apg during Covid. He only played 8 games. Even if he hardly played, the experience was a part of his journey that prepared him for his next steps. “The experience was wonderful I learned a lot just sitting down & watching. And it also brought a hunger to me that will never go away”, warned Phillip Russell. His journey then continued at Southeast Missouri State University (NCAA) where he played 2 seasons averaging 13.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 73.3% and 18.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 5.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 79.9%. He made a big jump in his game. He was so fortunate being able to play for Brad Corn. “He was the main key just trusting me allowing me to make mistakes my first year not giving up on me. And just trusting me in running the show. He saw the work that was put it in during offseason and we just had that sit down before the year & came to an agreement”, remembered Phillip Russell. He turned into a lethal NCAA scorer scoring in double figures in 53 of 63 games and had 37 point explosions against UALR, 35 points against SIUE and 30 points against Tennessee State. He also went to the bIg Dance for the first time beating Tennessee Tech to win the OVC title. He continued to be hungry for new challenges and then played a season at the University of Texas at Arlington (NCAA) averaging 14.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 4.4apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 84.6%. This was another huge step in his basketball development. “It built my character & helped me look in the mirror”, remembered Phillip Russell. There he scored in double figures in 16 of 22 games and had 30 points against SF Austin and 28 points against the Air Force. He wasn´t done yet as he moved on one more time and played a season at Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA) for Ryan Odom averaging 10.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 81.3%. He won the Atlantic 10 title beating GMC and then played at March Madness losing to BYU. “It was a great season. I had so much fun and it showed me what winning can do for you. Coach Odom told me he can trust me & bet on myself”, said Phillip Russell who remembers beating Joe Bamisile in daily 1-1 battles. He scored 26 points against St Bonaventure and 25 points against Loyola, Il.

The 178cm point guard who lists Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Kyrie Irving on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim. Even if he is a rookie, he has brought so much experience having played at 4 different schools in the NCAA. “I do not feel like a rookie. I’ve been playing this game my entire life I know that I’m ready to make an impact right away & lead to the best of my ability”, stated Phillip Russell last summer. He found eye to eye last summer with players coach Igor Perovic when he first had contact. “The talks went wonderful with coach Igor Perovic. He told me what it was straight forward and what he needed from me in the offseason I appreciate most of him taking a chance on me as I start my rookie career”, said Phillip Russell. Currently Kirchheim is battling for a playoff spot as it is resting in 7th place with a record of 9-7. Despite being a rookie, he has displayed his leadership skills early on. He also has needed no adjustment period as he is averaging 17,1ppg, 2,6rpg, 3,6apf and 1,1spg while shooting a very respectable 40% from the parking lot. He is a player that loves to create and compares his game to defensive minded NBA player Jose Alvarado and can just do so much at both ends. “Versatility is huge in my game. I’m big on winning & I feel sharing the ball seeing everybody eat brings a team closer”, expressed Phillip Russell. This season he has scored in double figures in 14 of 16 games and struck 20 points or more 5 times including 29 points in a win against Artland and 23 points a piece against Cologne and Turbingen. Another big part of his game is his three point shooting. He averaged 36% in his last 3 NCAA seasons and wants to continue to develop overseas. “I will continue to put my trust in God & also getting up a lot of reps on my downtime”, said Phillip Russell. He also sees a lot of potential in his defense and knows exactly what needs to be worked on most in the lab. “I feel I’m a good defender I take pride in my defense. I can always improve & I will. I have to become dead eye from 3 & take care of the ball better”, warned Phillip Russell. It will be interesting to see how Kirchheim´s quest for the playoffs and how Russell´s game will continue to develop. One thing is for sure Jimmy Mckinney will continue to be proud of him.

Damian Forrest(Donar Groninigen) Loves To Surprise Guards On The Switch And Wouldn´t Be Where He Is Today Without The JUCO Grind

Damian Forrest (206-F-2001, college: N.Alabama) is a 24 year old 206cm forward from Colorado playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). Last season as a rookie you played with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. He began his basketball career at Poudre High School and then played a season at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. He then played a season at Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. He then played at the University of North Alabama (NCAA) from 2021-2024 averaging 5.3ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 44.4%, FT: 75.6%, 7.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 52.2% and 10.4ppg, 8.2rpg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.

Thanks Damian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

My experience with Donar Groningen has been great so far! I think we have a really great team and staff and thats why we are seeing so much success. The fact that this is basically a brand new team yet we are still so close and have such good chemistry with each other on and off the court has easily been my favorite part of this year.

Last season as a rookie you played in Germany. What are the biggest differences between Germany and Holland on and off the court?

I think that the biggest adjustment is physicality. To me, BNXT players and teams have been overall bigger and stronger than in the ProA, but luckily I like that kind of play and have really embraced it! Holland is great off the court, people are friendly and the city of Groningen is very lively and a nice place to live but I will say that I really miss Germany! This just comes down to personal preference because I grew up speaking German and always had wanted to live there, and it really had exceeded my expectations so I am very thankful for my time in Nuremberg.

The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again?

The hunger is huge! We have made it our goal to win the cup and the Dutch league, so despite some early success we come to practice every day knowing that our ultimate goal is still a ways away, and we need to work harder and get better everyday to reach it because we have the tools to do it

What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. How has he helped your game move forward this season?

Coach JD has been so huge for my development. Being relatively young and a former successful player means that he gets us and our team on a level that I have never seen before in my life. He has put ultimate confidence in me and my development and so I have seen leaps and bounds of my game getting better. I even hit my first in game three’s of my college and pro career because he really believes in me. Super thankful to play for him.

You’re a player that can score and rebound. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role is to be the anchor of the team. I have the capability to score and free up other guys by drawing attention to the post, but most of all being able to defend at a high level, screen, and rebound is central to my game and roll on a team. As well as being a leader with communicating and keeping everyone’s heads on the court and off.

Let´s talk more about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would compare my game to a Jalen Duren or maybe Jarrett Allen, it´s hard to compare myself because I have a sort of unique game.

You’re a player that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

Other than scoring and rebounding, I pride myself on my individual defense guarding 1-5, my screen defense, my communication, and my screening. Also although my assist numbers aren’t high I am certainly getting better with my pass game.

In school you took only 2 three pointers. In Nurnberg none and now already 6 in Holland. Is the three pointer a part of your game that you would like to incorporate more into your game?

I certainly want to incorporate the three into my game more, but not too much. I just want to prove the ability to make an open three or a low shot clock three to keep the defense honest and open up the floor for my teammates and myself.

You had have shown good glimpses as a defender. Would you still classify yourself as a raw defender overseas? What steps do you want to make this season with your defensive game?

I would consider myself a raw defender, I think I am a high level post defender and I have a really good ability for my size and weight to defend guards and outside the paint. I actually like the challenge of guarding and shutting down guys outside of my position and I love to play switch because I think I surprise guards that try and iso me, it always boosts my confidence when the guards stop trying to iso me because they can´t get past me.

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

My court vision and ability to pass are two big areas of my game that I am trying to improve on this season. I am also trying to work on the ability to knock down open threes occasionally as I think that will be huge for both me and my team.

You played your rookie season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was definitely a roller coaster of a rookie year. Being so far from home and dealing with a new team, new system, way of life, style of play, and coaches was a hard adjustment at first for sure. I think my wake up call was when my first coach and club parted ways. Made me realize how this was real life, no time or room to mess around because this is job. And being successful is a part of the job now, and of you can’t get the job done it can be over.

How do you summarize your rookie season in Germany and playing for Ralph Junge. How did your game grow as a rookie?

It was a roller coaster of challenges on and off the court but I am thankful to have had the opportunity to play for Ralph, he definitely helped with my adjustment to the differences of the game on the court and in everyday life off the court.

You began your university basketball at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. How vital was this first season playing for Taylor Langley? What could your game benefit most from that season?

I was under-recruited out of high school so going to play at UMD was a really pivotal year for me. I wasn’t sure if basketball was for me, or if this was sustainable, I wanted to be at a higher level and get more out of my experience. But I am thankful for how much of a grind it was because it made me realize I would do whatever it takes in basketball to get where I thought I should be.

You then took a step back to play with Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. Why did you make this decision? Was playing Juco a good decision? Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO reported that JUCO was tough, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? You were a NJCAA D1 Region VI Finalist.

You couldn’t have worded it better yourself, it was a tough year but I wouldn’t trade it for the world, and it is the reason why I made it to where I am today. I made the decision to go down because I wanted to have a great enough season to get recruited to play at an NCAA Division 1 school where I thought I should be playing. So I grinded in JUCO and it worked out.

How valuable was head coach Lou Cigliano in your basketball development? How did he prepare you best for a NCAA career at North Alabama?

Coach Cig, Coach Howard, and Coach Chop all gave me all the tools to succeed and I am eternally grateful to them for it. I am still in touch to them to this day and very thankful for all they did to help me be great, achieve what I wanted to achieve, and prepare me for the next level.

You then played at North Alabama (NCAA). You improved your scoring and rebounding averages each season. What kind of a player did you become there?

At North Alabama I really was able to find my identity as both a basketball player and a person. This is where I developed into a team captain, communicator, and defensive/offensive anchor of the team.

You played a season together with TIM Smith Jr who is in his second season in Germany. How special of a player and person was he for you there?

Tim Smith Jr is a hell of a ball player. We had a good season playing together and had a good run in the ASUN conference and tournament. Good guy on and off the court.

You had many great games like 2 14/10 games against EKU, or 2 great games against Lipscomb as a senior. What was your fondest moment there on the court?

I would say the ASUN tournament my final year we played against Lipscomb in the quarterfinals of the ASUN tournament, it was a rival school of ours and absolutely packed arena with both fans. We ended up beating them on a crazy buzzer beater to send us to the semi-finals. It was insane experience and win, and got posted everywhere from Sportscenter to ESPN.

How did head coach Tony Pujol groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Tony Pujol and Ahmad Smith from North Alabama both did a great job developing me and honing my skills as a player. They then allowed me to come stay at UNA over the past two summers to workout and stay in shape with the team and give the young guys advice, I am so thankful for them and how close we have become. They are instrumental in my success.

Who won a 1-1 on the court you or Tim Smith Jr?

He is a better shooter but I think I got him because I would be able to play bully ball in the paint haha.

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

The toughest that I had to guard was probably Chet Holmgren from Gonzaga

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My top 5 in no particular order are Jacari Lane, Austin Luke, Jack Pagankopf, Dane Erikstrup, and Sardaar Calhoun.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

My personal NBA mount Rushmore all time is MJ, Curry, Lebron, Kobe. Current players is Jokic, Giannis, Lebron, Steph.

Who is your GOAT?

I think basketball is too complicated to say flat out one player is the goat, but my GOAT in terms of most dominant is Giannis.

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

They definitely should have left it alone, I hate when they milk the classics and make sequels for a quick buck.

Thanks Damian for the chat.

Rookie Desmond Watson Sparks Late Run scoring 12 Of 15 Points To Power The Skyliners Juniors Past TV Langen 90-81

It wasn´t a great 2025-2026 season for the Skyliners Juniors as they finished the year in last place with a record of 3-10. They came into the new year with a lousy 5 game losing streak. They reacted by bringing in American rookie Desmond Watson (196-G-2003, college: Loyola, IL), a big guard that did his share of winning in the NCAA with Loyola Chicago and ex Pro A player Moses Poelking. The Skyliners Juniors had scoring punch, but it didn´t hurt to get some extra stability on the court. They faced the rising TV Langen that came to Frankfurt having won 4 of their last 5 games. TV Langen had defeated Frankfurt in Langen in the first game 70-61. The Skyliners Juniors obviously were hungry for revenge to start the new year off on the right foot. It was the home coming of ex Skyliners youth player Alexander Lagerman who played there a few years ago before departing for Schwenningen and Rhondorf as well as Drago Crnjac who wanted to keep his winning streak alive against brother Ivan who was 2-0 against him going in. The first game of 2026 for both teams was a close battle for the most part, but in crunch-time a deadly 21-0 run led by rookie and new Skyliner Desmond Watson sealed the 90-81 victory for the Skyliners Juniors. “We played really well as a team. We fought the whole game and never gave up. Every possession mattered for us. I have only been here 2 weeks, but the team is young, but has a real good chemistry”, stressed Ohio native Desmond Watson. TV Langen played a great game and controlled the game for long spans, but couldn´t finish the job falling apart in the last minutes. “We played so well for 35 minutes, but then to give it away really hurts. We defended so well for the longest time and then to fall apart at the end with giving up open three´s and dunks was unacceptable”, stressed TV Langen guard Drago Crnjac.

Lukas Smazak from outside

Basketball City Mainhatten was packed as many TV Langen fans made the 23 kilometer ride to Frankfurt to support their team. The Skyliners Juniors had a lightening start, but TV Langen finally found their rhythm and led by 4 points after 10 minutes as 46 points were scored. Frankfurt began furiously leading 9-2 as new Skyliner Desmond Watson wás instantly aggressive nailing a trey while German Jamie Edoka added 6 points including a trey. Frankfurt was playing at a high intensity while being very physical something that TV Langen couldn´t match and most importantly were able to play their game which is fast. However TV Langen finally found their rhythm and before Frankfurt knew what had hit them, TV Langen had gone on a 19-5 run to lead 21-14. TV Langen let it rain three´s as their team basketball was refreshing. They spread the love around getting three´s from rookie California native Jacob Washington with two while Drago Crnjac hit one as did ex Skyliner Niklas Pons. The heart and soul of TV Langen Henk Droste also scored twice on transition. TV Langen heightened their intensity and were able to execute in the set play as well as get out on transition while on defense flying around the court and forcing steals and getting in passing lanes well. Young Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak added a trey as did Niklas Pons as TV Langen led 25-21 after one quarter. “I was surprised it was so high scoring. Both teams were playing unorthodox which led to more scoring than usual”, stressed Drago Crnjac. TV Langen shot 47% from the field and 56% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 40% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Leon Fertig at the FT line

The second quarter remained tight as the Skyliners Juniors attempted to get away at the start, but TV Langen were able to punch back and the game was dead locked at 41-41 at the break. TV Langen began with a swift 4-0 run to lead 29-21 as German 3×3 world champion Leon Fertig made an off balance shot and Drago Crnjac made a lay in. Frankfurt was forcing too much and just weren´t calm. Frankfurt wasn´t rattled by this lightening start as they calmed down and shot back with a 10-0 run to dead lock the game at 31-31. Ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich was on fire scoring 3 times as he wanted to show that bringing in ex Pro A center Moses Poelking wasn´t about to hinder his game. He was aggressive and used his big body well getting easy buckets. Edoka also made a pretty floater, but the play of the game was the incredible flashy alley-oop dunk from Ivan the universal dimension Crnjac. He got a pretty pass from American Desmond Watson who made the perfect feed for the thunderous dunk. “I saw Watson pass the ball over my head and I turned my head and saw my brother in the air. I just thought look out. It was a great dunk maybe the best in his career”, stated Drago Crnjac. “I saw him running to the basket. He put his hand up. I was able to make the pass for him. We never practiced this”, stated Desmond Watson. Alex Lagerman then made a lay in while Ivan Crnjac remained hot netting a trey for the 34-33 Frankfurt lead. Lagerman continued to be in attack mode and would score 2 more lay in´s including a very acrobatic one for the 39-36 advantage. Frankfurt got a basket from Poelking to trail 39-38. Frankfurt continued to battle back and tied the game with a thunderous Dusan Nikolic dunk on transition as half-time arrived. “Both teams executed well on offense and got out on transition”, commented Drago Crnjac. TV Langen shot 46% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 26% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Dusan Nikolic with the dunk

In the third quarter TV Langen got the lead and led by as much as 6 points, but could never shake the Skyliners Juniors as they actually regained the lead by 1 point after 30 minutes. TV Langen got a big trey by Leo Fertig and continued to attack the rim well getting lay in´s from Pons and Lagerman while Frankfurt rallied getting baskets from Dietrich and Watson, but trailed 50-45. Henk Droste continued to be his versatile self, but had that one extra special dimension and that was taking charges. He took 2 in this span which resulted in 2 Frankfurt turnovers. Whenever TV Langen tried to get away, Ivan Crnjac came to the rescue with a trey as Frankfurt trailed 50-48. But TV Langen always had an answer as Fertig and Washington had lay in´s while Droste had his 3rd charge of the game and TV Langen led 54-48. But Ivan Crnjac continued to make clutch baskets as he dropped another trey to trail 54-50. TV Langen continued to get easy baskets as Lagerman and Pons scored on the drive for the 58-53 advantage, but Frankfurt also always produced an answer as Ivan Crnjac made an offensive rebound and put back and Leif Zentgraf nailed a key trey to tie the game at 58-58. It continued to go back and forth as Drago Crnjac and Smazak traded three´s to tie the game at 61-61. Edoka countered with a trey and Fertig with his typical off balance shot as TV Langen trailed 64-63 after three quarters. “Both teams continued to execute well. It was tough getting stops”, said Desmond Watson. “Our weaknesses began to come. Our intensity went down, we had too many turnovers and didn´t rebound well”, said Drago Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44” from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 36 rebounds and 16 turnovers and TV Langen shot 47% from the field and 37% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Jacob Washington from the parking lot

In the fourth quarter TV Langen came out hot and it seemed like they would ride home with the win, but as always basketball will always remain a game of runs as the Skyliners Juniors punched last with a massive run to win their first game in 2026. TV Langen slapped Frankfurt around in the first minutes with an annoying 13-3 run to lead 75-67. TV Langen continued to attack the weak Skyliners Juniors 1-1 defense as Drago Crnjac scored twice on the drive as did Pons and Washington. Frankfurt was erratic in this run not being able to run and didn´t move the ball well. But out of seemingly nothing, the Skyliners Juniors then totally turned the game around with a massive 21-0 run to steal the lead back at 88-75. Instrumental in the run was Desmond Watson who exploded scoring 12 of the first 15 points of the run playing more like a veteran than a rookie and showing he can score in massive bunches. He nailed 2 three´s, a mid distance jumper and hard dunk finishing with 29 points in his debut. “It was my first game in 6-7 months. I felt good, but a little tired at times. I was just happy I could play”, smiled Desmond Watson. Ivan Crnjac added extra insurance in the run with 5 points. Henk Droste stopped the run with a trey, but it was too little too late. After Alvin Onyia free throws, Drago Crnjac ended the game with a three pointer. “We played as a team in the run and stuck together. We heightened our intensity on defense and that sparked our offense”, expressed Desmond Watson. “We played bad defense and had horrible decisions at both ends of the court. We also had bad communication and they punished every mistake we did”, stated Drago Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Desmond Watson with 29 points. Ivan Crnjac added 19 points and Jamie Edoka had 11 points while TV Langen was led by Drago Crnjac and Alexander Lagerman with 15 points a piece while Niklas Pons had 14 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44% from the field and 31% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 19 turnovers while TV Langen shot 48% from the field and 38% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Isaiah Swope´s(Skyliners) Recipe To Making Consistent Clutch Shots Is Playing Off Momentum, Instincts And What He Practices

,Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

When one looks back on the last 8 easyCredit seasons of the Skyliners, success hasn´t been etched in their name. The last time they reached the playoffs without help of the 19-20 Covid season was 2018 where a certain formula of success in the name of Gordon Herbert was coaching the team. In the last 8 years the club has brought in many talented players young and old including some very special players that could produce those unique highlight films in terms of scoring. If I had to chose 3 guys that were the most dominant 1-1 guys the 2004 BBL champion had in the last 8 years then it would have to be Matt Mobley, Malik Parsons and current explosive rookie Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis). Both Parsons and Swope scored in double figures in 12 of their first 14 games including cup games for Frankfurt. The only real distinct difference is that Frankfurt is winning more with Swope then they were with Parsons and Swope is also only a rookie. The current Skyliners has been refreshing as winning is happening again. Both Parsons and Swope have that exceptional quality of creating their own shots and making difficult shots. Swope has done it over and over this season hitting massive shots. He pulled his biggest trick so far this season scoring 11 points in a row in Jordan esc manner and propelling the team to the victory over Jena and 2 days ago in Heidelberg nailing a crunch-time trey with under 2,00 minutes securing the win and registering a season high 29 points. His recipe of success is simple and it simply works and he sticks to it. “I just try to do what I practice. That is where I´m most comfortable. I play off momentum, instincts and what I practice”, stressed Isaiah Swope.

After having lost 3 of their last 4 games, the Skyliners wanted to leave 2025 with a win in Heidelberg. Heidelberg were also reeling to win again after a disastrous 100-67 game against Bonn in their own living room. As the doormat of the BBL, Heidelberg had to react and did with a strong performance against Frankfurt. Frankfurt came into the game prepared and never underestimated them. “It was urgent as always to win as every game is tough. Every team in the BBL is good. It doesn´t matter where a team is in the standings. You have to win every game. We also had a tough loss. It was a game with 2 teams coming off tough loses. I think the main focus of both teams was to perform better than the last game. That was why the game was so tight”, stated Isaiah Swope. It was one of those rare and unique games where it went back and forth for 38 minutes until mr Clutch Isaiah Swope did his thing. Basketball is a game of runs and for a team to go on a 8-0 or 10-2 run in a game is as usual as Wemby of the Spurs registering 2-3 blocks a game. But in Heidelberg, big rusn weren´t on the menu that night. Was a back and forth punching like in Heidelberg the first of it´s kind for him? “I have had multiple games like that in my career. Games where no team can really break away and where there are runs of 2-4 points. You need to figure out how to execute at the end and force them to as tough shots as possible”, said Isaiah Swope.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Isaiah Swope in Frankfurt 2025

The ex Saint Louis University (NCAA) guard whom would always take himself over current teammate Nahiem Alleyne in a 1-1 battle in practice made baskets early, but Heidelberg had the early 19-18 advantage after 10 minutes. Did Swope already feel like he was getting into the zone for a remarkable scoring game early? “It always depends how the game is going. I just try to go in and find a flow like I did in the last games and just build off it. I just do what I know”, said Isaiah Swope. Heidelberg had allowed an excess of 100 points in the last 2 games, but defended with more passion and authority against Frankfurt and only trailed 36-33 at the break. “We both had tough loses before and hadn´t been playing to our standard. The goal was to play as hard as possible. Sometimes a game won´t be pretty”, stated Isaiah Swope. Till Pape was back after missing the Munich game as his presence not being there was felt by the Skyliners. “When he is on the floor, his presence is really felt. He is a huge mismatch issue. He makes everything easier for us. I´m grateful that he could play against Heidelberg”, added Isaiah Swope. The third quarter remained a back and forth punch affair as no team could get away, but Heidelberg stole the lead back at 59-57. “The main focus for us as a group going into the fourth quarter was defense. We have had plenty of games where our offense eventually played well. If we play good defense then the rest will take care of it´s self. We did a good job taking away their second chance points”, commented Isaiah Swope. With less than 2 minutes to play ex MHP Riesen guard Radii Caisin made a big three as did Swope did for the 74-.70 lead and that was that as the Skyliners would never trail again. “Radii´s shot was off energy. This was the first point of the game that we were able to break away. The momentum swung in our direction and we built on it to get the win”, stressed Isaiah Swope. The Skyliners are back on the mat on January 3rd in Rostock. Rostock like Heidelberg will also be hungry for redemption as they suffered a tough 85-67 loss to FC Bayern Munich on December 31st. “We have to figure out what Rostock do well and then take it away or make it as tough as possible for them. We just have to believe in ourselves and we will be fine”, warned Isaiah Swope.

This season the ex University of Southern Indiana (NCAA2) guard is averaging 15/3/2/1 stats in 25 minutes per game. As a rookie he has held his own well and continuing to get adjusted while being able to shine playing his game. But most important of all, he is grateful for being able to play the game he loves. “I´m just really appreciative that I can play professional basketball overseas. I feel like I could be playing a lot better, but at the same time, I understand that it´s my first year and I´m still learning. My main goal is to win and if I can do that, then I´m happy”, expressed Isaiah Swope. As a rookie overseas he is averaging 11 minutes less than at St Louis, but only averaged 2 points more last season. What is interesting is that his game has gotten a big push not necessarily from on the court. “I feel like I have grown more these first few months off the court. It has been a big change going from all that I have been used to the last years. Going through that change on a daily basis has helped me the most with basketball”, stated Isaiah Swope. He had a consistent career in the NCAA and shot around 38% from outside the last 3 years. How difficult is it being consistent while taking many shots per game? “I just do what I do in practice. I´m ok with the results. I feel like my numbers will always average out to what they are supposed to be. I think that I have missed a few shots in each game so far where it had nothing to do with the defense, but it was on me. I think that I´m learning every game and the more we play together as a team and keep figuring it out, the more consistent we will get as a team”, warned Isaiah Swope. He surely could show some more aspects of his game then just clutch scoring, but for him it is all about having success as a team. “My main focus is winning. As long as we win, then I´m not concerned with personal accomplishments. That comes with winning. If we win, then I can automatically show who I am as a player”, stressed Isaiah Swope. 2026 is here and there is always that question. Did he have any new years resolution? “I do not. I live my life no matter what year it is. Every day is like a new years resolution for me”, said Isaiah Swope. It will be interesting to see how Isaiah Swope´s rookie season continues to progress and can he be that next rookie since Justin Cobbs to help the Skyliners reach the playoffs again?

Chuck Harris Supplies 33 Points And The Killer Instinct In Overtime Powering Kirchheim Past The EPG Baskets Koblenz 105-98

Basketball fans in general in Koblenz couldn´t have wished for a more exciting game to close out 2025 than the EPG Baskets battling Kirchheim. Only 7 weeks ago, both teams had begun slowly and had a combined record of 3-9 on November second. However since then both teams had experienced a special rebirth as the southern team from Kirchheim belonged to the hottest teams in the league having won 7 of their last 8 games while Koblenz also have slowly found out of their funk having won 5 of their last 8 games and in between had ridden a potent 4 game winning streak. Kirchheim was perched in seventh place with a 8-6 record while Koblenz was fighting to get in the top 8 playoff places having a 7-7 record and were in 11th place. Both teams wanted to close out 2025 with a bang and it was a game that was dominated for the most part by the EPG Baskets Koblenz, however they couldn´t finish the job as the Bozic Estriche Knights fought back forcing overtime and then had the killer instinct winning 105-98. Kircheim were powered by rookie Chuck Harris (188-G-2001, college: SMU) who supplied big shots all game long and then had the killer instinct making a big three supplying the last punch for the win. “We started off slow, but at the half-time talk, we stressed staying positive. We knew we could still make something happen in the second half. We stuck together as a team and always believed that we could win. We stayed disciplined and played with a lot of energy”, stressed Bozic Estriche Knights guard Chuck Harris. For the EPG Baskets Koblenz, it was their second bitter loss in a row as they continue to have difficulty closing out games. “We simply weren´t consistent enough. We had some good phases during the game, but we allowed them to come back twice. When your up by 16 points, you just can´t give it away the way we did”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz center Marko Bacak.

Calvin Wishart at the FT line

Both clubs had massive difficulty finding an offensive rhythm in the first 3 minutes as both teams were stopped 5 times. Koblenz finally broke the ice as ex Schwenningen guard Badu Buck nailed a trey. Kirchheim also added a basket from unorthodox but efficient American player Nick Spinoso to trail 3-2. Both teams then scored with ease, but Koblenz kept the slim lead with a transition basket from ex G-League player DJ Jeffries who celebrated his 26th birthday while ex Rhondorf forward Tim Smith Jr hit a trey for the 10-8 advantage. Ex Koblenz guard Lucas Mayer stayed aggressive and made 2 buckets on the drive. However Koblenz then celebrated their first big run of the game scoring 13 points while the guests managed only 2 to lead 23-10. Koblenz got spirited play from their guards Garrett Hicks and Calvin Wishart who dropped three´s while their bigs also were efficient as ex Rhondorf German Alex Moeller made a lay in in traffic and ex Oldenburg center Marko Bacak made a pretty bank shot. Koblenz played nice team ball and defensively stayed disciplined and looked for the best shot on offense. Kirchheim got a clutch trey from young German Gian Aydinoglu and a jumper by Harris at the buzzer to trail 28-19 after 10 minutes. “Koblenz was playing a strong game. They had a good balance between offense and defense. The team also played nice inside out basketball and played aggressive on defense. They did have some problems with 1-1 defense”, stressed EPG Baskets Koblenz sport director Thomas Klein.

Jonas Niedermanner from outside

The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim fought back aggressively in the first minutes of the second quarter to dead lock the game, but Koblenz switched the lever 180 degrees and went on a giant run to get the big lead at the break. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim broke out on a rapid 9 -0 run to dead lock the game at 28-28. Koblenz fell into their typical lethargic play where they could find no rhythm and had mental lapses and were unconcentrated. Kirchheim received consecutive buckets from Spinoso, a trey by Harris and a lay in by Russell. Koblenz couldn´t play their fast game and were forced to the set play that hurt them. Koblenz head coach Stephan Dohrn was fuming on the sidelines and in lightening fashion subbed in 5 guys and that was the missing recipe. The 5 new guys sparked a 16-2 run that totally shocked Kirchheim as they trailed 44-30. The run was led by Calvin Wishart who was playing like a MVP player. He played more the playmaker up to that point, but in the run showed exactly what qualities he has. He continued to run the team adding 4 points and dazzling with no looks passes and made a steal. American Garrett Hicks added real energy with 2 three´s while Bacak made another basket and ex Hagen forward Devonte McCall added 3 points. Ee Texas State forward Tylan Pope then added his only basket of the game who had a cold shooting night at 1/6. But Koblenz continued to execute with ease as Moeller scored again inside as did ex Kirchheim forward Jonas Niedermanner for the 49-30 lead as the run had grown to 21-2. Kirchheim got free throws from Harris and a lay in by ex Virginia Commonwealth University guard Philipp Russell, but the Koblenz defense was consistent and aggressive making everything tough for the Knights. Koblenz had the overwhelming 58-39 advantage at half-time. “That was an incredible Koblenz run. Switching in 5 new guys really did the trick. We continued to defend very well, but we let up a bit at the end”, stated Thomas Klein. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 58% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim shot 45% from the field and 14% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Aenas Jung at the FT line

The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim made a swift comeback in the first minutes of the third quarter, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz staged another big run to get the big lead back again. Kirchheim began hot going on a 8-0 run to trail 58-47. Ex Butler (NCAA) guard Chuck Harris hit back to back three´s and Russell made a lay in. Kirchheim produced 4 stops as Koblenz didn´t play the team ball that made them so successful in the first half. Niedermanner finally stopped the run with a trey to lead 61-47. Kirchheim still had the momentum and continued to pour on the offense rolling out a 13-2 run to suddenly only trail 63-60. Russell was the man in the run as he produced 8 points including 2 three´s. Spinoso also added a nice old school left handed hook shot while German role player Nil Failenschmid made a lay in. Kirchheim´s on ball defense became more aggressive stifling Koblenz to bitter turnovers and Koblenz had too many mental lapses. But basketball is a game of runs and Koblenz reacted forcefully with a brutal 13-2 run to end the third quarter leading 76-62. Suddenly Koblenz was mentally sharp again and found back to their team game and controlled the boards one of their team goals for the game. In the run, Koblenz received 4 points from Smith who added a putback while Jeffries and Wishart made lay in´s and Hicks a trey. “We gave up easy rebounds at start, but then came back with more energy. Ín our run we ran again which led to easy baskets”, commented Marko Bacak. “We woke up in the third quarter at the start. However our bench wasn´t able to give us the needed energy in their run”, expressed Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim head coach Igor Perovic.

Nil Failenschmid from the corner

The EPG Baskets Koblenz managed their lead well in the first minutes of the fourth quarter, but the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim never gave up, but just kept chipping away and with time they slowly crept closer and forced overtime. The EPG Baskets Koblenz got some key three´s early as Jeffries and Wishart scored for the 82-66 advantage. However the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim just kept fighting raising their defensive intensity and rode on a lethal 19-2 run to take their first lead of the game at 86-85. In the run, the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim did a great job sharing the offensive love around as 5 different guys scored. Kirchheim got big support from Failenschmid with 5 points while ex easyCredit BBL player Nicolas Bretzel added 4 points. Harris added a floater and Russell a three pointer in the run rout. Kirchheim´s momentum heightened with every new bucket while the arena got quieter except for the little space where the Knights fans watched. Bacak gave Koblenz the lead back and a Smith Jr trey got the arena rocking again as Koblenz led 89-86. But the lead didn´t last long as Harris drained his next clutch three pointer to tie the game at 89-89. Harris then hit a free throw while Morgen got an offensive rebound and dished to Russell for the trey and the 93-90 lead. Bacak kept his nerves and forced overtime with a trey. “My shot felt good at first, but then I felt like it was going to far left, but luckily it went in”, said Marko Bacak. “We did a good job on defense and limiting them to 1 shot. We played free on offense and just made plays”, added Chuck Harris. “We had no structure. Our point guards were out. We didn´t know what to do”, stated Marko Bacak. In the overtime period, the EPG Baskets Koblenz had to play without point guards Wishart and Kovacevic who had fouled out and just couldn´t execute properly. Buck gave Koblenz their last lead of the game 98-96 with an off balance shot, but Kirchheim was ice cold and then closed out the game with 9-0 run. Morgan tied the game with free throws. Bretzel then made a steal which led to his free throws and the 100-98 Kirchheim lead. Niedermanner then missed which led to the Harris clutch trey and 103-98 advantage. “Anyone on the team can be top scorer each night. Tonight it was my turn. Guys kept me being positive and telling me to remain aggressive”, stated Chuck Harris. Harris and Morgan closed out the game with free throws. “We felt the momentum on our side. We dug in deep and didn´t want to lose”, said Chuck Harris. “They had momentum and smelled the win. We didn´t produce good looks”, said Marko Bacak. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim were led by Chuck Harris with 33 points and Philip Russell added 18 points while the EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Calvin Wishart and Garrett Hicks with 14 points a piece. The Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim shot 47% from the field and 38% from outside and had 46 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 44% from the field and 35% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 10

Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops..com to talk basketball.

How tough was it to digest that loss against low ranked Rendsburg?

Man, that was a tough one. Losing on a buzzer beater always hurts, especially when you feel like you had control of the game most of the night. Those are the ones that stay with you, but at the same time, you’ve gotta turn the page and get better from it.

Do you think there was any underestimating of Rendsburg?

I wouldn’t say we underestimated them, but you can’t look at records in this league. Any team can beat you if you don’t bring it every possession. They came in aggressive, played free, and we didn’t match that intensity for the full 40.

What was key in letting Rendsburg come back?

It came down to execution. We had some defensive breakdowns, didn’t get key stops, and on offense we had a few possessions where we didn’t get great looks. When you’re up like that late, every detail matters, and we slipped in a few areas.

How did you experience the last possession?

We knew who they wanted the ball in. Harvey made a tough shot — you’ve got to give him credit. From our side, it’s frustrating because you feel like one more stop and the game’s over.

Harvey scored 35 points. What was toughest to contain?

He’s a bucket-getter. What makes him tough is his confidence and his ability to score at all three levels. Even when you defend him well, he can still rise up and make difficult shots.

You had 27/6/4/2. How did you feel about your shot selection from three?

I felt good about it. The shots came within the flow of the game nothing forced. You always want to see them go down, but I’m comfortable taking those shots when the defense gives them to me.

What will be key against Wolfenbüttel?

Consistency and focus. We’ve got to play a full 40 minutes, take care of the ball, and defend at a high level. If we do that and stay together, we’ll give ourselves a great chance to get the win.

Thanks Toru for the chat, thanks very much Toru