basketball

Tyler Cavanaugh(Bahcesehir) Will Never Forget Checking Into His First NBA Game And Realizing That Lebron James Was Guarding Him

In the 26 year history of the Frankfurt Skyliners, the club has won 3 titles. The first one I didn´t witness and the second one only the last few months, but the third one I did. In the 2015-2016 season the Skyliners won the Fiba Europe Cup led by future World Cup champion coach Gordon Herbert and point guard Jordan Theodore who had his break out season that year and would go on to higher leagues overseas including the Euroleague. The success of the team wasn´t only based on these 2 gentlemen, but all in all, that team was a collective that all played for each other and played their roles to the best of their abilities. All players from top to bottom including Max Merz did their share for the success. One player that was very special was Aaron Dornekamp, a player who had his awakening in Frankfurt and then went to higher leagues in Spain with the ACB. Doornekamp is 39 now and still balling now in his 9th season in the ACB. He is a guy that always gets lauded by former teammates. It isn´t any different for ex NBA player Tyler Cavanaugh (206-PF-1994, college: GWU) that was teammates with him early in his career in Spain. “ Aaron had a huge impact on me that year he made me feel welcome on and off the court and was a great role model for me in how to have a successful career overseas as a player and as a father. I am very grateful that our paths crossed especially when I was still a young impressionable player. My wife and I are grateful for the Doornekamp family”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. But it isn´t only Doornekamp that totally enriched his life during a season, but many others. Cavanaugh has had incredible fortune being on teams that have had high character guys like Luke Sikma and Niels Giffey that have impacted his life and also helped him continue to develop as a player and person. It is no wonder that a Philip Scrub is on his list of 5 best teammates of all-time. Scrubb was also on that Skyliners 2015-2016 winning team and had an instrumental role coming from the bench.

Tyler Cavanaugh who lists as Jabari Parker as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was born on February 9, 1994 in Syracuse, New York. He began his basketball career at Jamesville-DeWitt High school and then played 64 NCAA games at Wake Forest University.In those 2 seasons, he averaged 5.0ppg, 2.5rpg and 8.8ppg, 3.8rpg and saw his minutes rise from 16 to 21. “The summer between my freshman and sophomore seasons at Wake, I worked really hard to change my body and get into better physical condition to handle the physicality of the collegiate game and that helped me really improve the next year”, stated Tyler Cavanaugh. In 2013 he was named to the ACC All-Academic team. He then made the jump to George Washington University averaging 16.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 82.7% and 18.3ppg, 8.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 84.8%. He crowned his 2 year stay there winning the NIT title in 2016. “That was a very very special run of basketball for myself and our team! Winning the NIT Title was huge for our university and something that had never been done before. We missed out on the NCAA Tournament by 2-3 games that season and were very disappointed but after Alex Mitola hit the game winning shot in the first game against Hofstra we were very motivated to get the chance to play for the title in Madison Square Garden. It was a very special experience for me getting to cut down the nets in MSG since I was a kid from upstate NY watching so many of my idols play games in that arena”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He had incredible games in the NIT win like scoring 20 points or more in 4 of the 5 games. There were some close games like against Hofstra and Florida. “Every game was special in its own way but that first game against Hofstra was definitely the toughest”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. In the 2 years he played 73 games and scored in double figures in 70 of 73 games showing brilliant consistency. He scored 33 points against St Bonaventure and 30 points against Dayton and Duquesne. He made massive strides in his game due to the guidance of coaches Mike Lonergan and Maurice Joseph. “They really helped me grow into a more dominant player at the college level giving me opportunities to have a bigger role on the court which thankfully I was able to take advantage of”, commented Tyler Cavanaugh. He picked up numerous awards in his 2 year stay at George Washington including ACC All-Academic Team -2013, All-Atlantic 10 Second Team -2016, 17, Atlantic 10 All-Academic Team -2016, 17, NABC All-District 4 Second Team -2016
NIT All-Tournament MVP -2016, and Reese’s College All-Star Game East Team Perfect Player -2017

The 206cm power forward who lists Keenan Evans, Landry Nnoko, Axel Bouteille, Sasu Salin, and Philip Scrubb as his 5 best teammates of all-time played NBA Summer League with the Atlanta Hawks in 2017 and then signed a 2 way contract with them. He then split time with the Atlanta Hawks (NBA) playing 39 games averaging 4.7ppg, 3.3rpg, and with the Erie Bay Hawks (NBA G-League) played 14 games averaging 11.4ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 91.3%. He made his NBA debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers playing 3 minutes and losing a heartbreaker by 2 points. He didn´t have much time to be in awe as he faced the likes of Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, Derrick Rose and Kevin Love. “That first game was absolutely wild I think I was in shock. The previous 24 hours to get me to that game was crazy getting a phone call before a g league game in Maine and then taking three flights to get to Cleveland. The one thing I will never forget is my first offensive possession of that game I caught the ball at the top of the key and realized that LeBron was guarding me, just a surreal experience to live out your dream”, expressed Tyler Cavanaugh. He played his first game as a rookie in the G-League and 2 days later made his NBA debut and then would be with the Hawks for more than 2 months before playing a G-League game. He saw so much from the NBA in that span and like every player before him had that NBA Wake up call. “It took me awhile to digest the fact that I was in the NBA because everything happened so fast but it was a special experience playing against the best of the best and being treated like that too. I spent a lot of time with Josh Magette who was on a two way with the Hawks at the time. Other than that I wasn’t super close with any of the guys”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. In his rookie NBA season he scored in double figures in 7 games including 16 points against New Orleans. In his second pro season he played 11 games for the Utah Jazz and also played with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 17.9ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 82.2%. Despite only playing 11 NBA games, He saw the season as one in which he was able to develop further. “I really improved my game that season and took another step as a player even though I didn’t get much opportunity in the NBA since we had such a good team. Experiencing a playoff series was really cool and seeing the preparations that go into that”, added Tyler Cavanaugh. In Salt Lake City he was coached by the German connection of German Martin Schiller and Americans Bryan Bailey and Nathan Peavy who all played in Germany who had a big impact on him. “These guys all really helped push me to start my career overseas, I had never truly considered it until I started having conversations with them and knew that it was the best next step for me in my career. I learned a lot from them and Shawn James who was also a part of our staff that season”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. He also saw at close hand what kind of a business the NBA world is. “ I was told they had a plane ticket booked back to the G League the next morning for me but I had my best game against the New Orleans Pelicans and they told me that I would be sticking around a bit longer after that. Also the trade deadline is a a very interesting time as well”, added Tyler Cavanaugh.

The New York native who lists MJ, LeBron, Kobe, and Steph on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore came overseas in 2019 and after seeing how the NBA works. It was a no brainer for him to test the waters overseas. “It’s tough to continue in the NBA and G-League for more than a few seasons because you can get lost in the shuffle a bit with all the new players each season and it is such a grind not knowing and living on the edge of your seat all the time. Financially it made the most sense to start my journey overseas as well. I was ready for a new experience and a style of play that better fit my game”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. With Alba Berlin he right away won his first tile overseas averaging 9.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 90.9%; in the BBL and in the Euroleague averaged 6.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT-1 (97.0%). Despite having success on the court, it wasn´t always an easy experience. “That season was very difficult for me adjusting to the style of play that Aito implemented as well as adjusting to being so far away from home. I was definitely home sick that year but living in a major city like Berlin helped ease the adjustment”, stated Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored 14 points in the Euroleague against Anadolu Efes and Maccabi Tel Aviv. He had the great opportunity to have another great player as a teammate with Luke Sikma. He couldn´t have asked for a better teammate to have as a rookie overseas. “Competing with Luke everyday was instrumental in my adjustment to the FIBA game and I was intrigued at how differently he played and viewed the game. I learned a lot from him and how easily he was able to dissect a game without scoring the basketball. a great passer and tenacious rebounder but also someone hat just played extremely hard every time he was on the court”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He played his second season in the top country league in Europe with the ACB in Spain with Iberostar Tenerife CB Canarias (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 7.8ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 84.2%; and in the BCL averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 62.2%, 3PT: 52.4%, FT: 84.6%. He was able once again to make steps in his game. “ That was a very special season for me being a part of such a special group of guys and having a lot of success in both leagues. Personally I really started to understand the European game better that year and how I was going to have success as a player overseas. Playing with veterans like Marcelinho, Gio, and Aaron helped simplify the game for me so I could focus on my strengths as a player. Unfortunately we weren’t able to win any titles that year but I have a lot of great memories from that season and developed some great friendships along the way”, added Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored in double figures in 15 games in the ACB including 19 points against Gran Canaria and in the BCL scored in double figures in 5 games including 18 points against VEF Riga.

The 2024 Fiba Europe Cup finalist who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT then played 2 seasons with B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania-LKL) averaging 11.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 89.7%; and in the Euroleague 9.7ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 76.7%and in his second season averaged 7.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 84.4%; and in the Euroleague 5.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 76.9%. He won the league cup in his first season and league title in his second. “ Every season presents a new role and opportunity within a team and because of our struggles in my first year with Zalgiris I knew there would be big changes in year 2. We had a special group led by Keenan Evans and were able to accomplish some great things that season but for me personally winning the LKL Title was very fulfilling. After missing 4 months of the season with the back injury and being able to come back and contribute to the championship was very special for me”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored in double figures in 32 of 60 LKL games including 26 points against Siauliai and in the Euroleague scored in double figures in 15 of 44 games including 22 points against Anadolu Efes. Once again he was able to be teammates with another ultra teammate Nils Giffey who won 2 NCAA titles with UConn and he even battled him in 2012 in the NCAA and was coached by Tautvydas Sabonis who was an assistant coach and the son of legend Arivdas Sabonis. “Niels is definitely the ultimate teammate. He will do whatever is necessary for the team to win and is a very versatile player. I had the privilege to play with him in Berlin and in Zalgiris and was able to learn a lot from him as he helped in my adjustment to the European game. I spent a lot of time working with Tautvydas those two seasons and he helped me to improve my game a lot. Lots of early mornings and hours spent in the gym with him. We developed a friendship too and I think he has a brought future ahead of him as a coach”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh.

In the 2023-2024 season he went to Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 15.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 85.6%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 14.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 89.2%. He lost a real heartbreaker in the Fiba Europe Cup final to Chemnitz. Was this his strongest season so far overseas? “ Yes for sure. It was an important season for me after coming off of my back injury and the fit with Bahcesehir worked out perfectly”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. This season he is back with the Turkish team and going very strong in the Eurocup and battling for the playoffs in the BSL. “Living in Istanbul and playing for Bahcesehir has been a great experience for my family and I. Last season was difficult, coming up short in the FIBA Europe Cup Championship game and not meeting expectations in the Turkish League but we have enjoyed our experience here. The people, food, and culture in Turkey have been some of the best parts and we are very grateful to be with such a great organization”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) is holding their own in the BSL and reached the Eurocup semi-final. The interesting thing is that there are 8 new guys this season. “We have had a great start to the season because we have a great group of guys who have really come together and developed into a team. It’s always tough when you have a completely new team but we have gelled very well together which is easier when you have such high character guys like this team has. We still have a lot of goals to achieve ahead of us in the next few months”, warned Tyler Cavanaugh. He has had the luxury of playing with ex NBA player Marco Simonovic as both push each other to the limit each day to be the best they can be. “He is very valuable for our team because of his size and his ability to play inside and outside. It’s been great competing with him everyday ion practice and I feel like we are making each other better which is crucial in order for our team to reach our goals”, expressed Tyler Cavanaugh. It also seems like there isn´t 1 star on the team, but a collective of hungry guys playing for the team. My role is to be a leader on and off the floor and be a consistent presence on the court for this team. Playing smart, playing tough, rebounding the ball and knocking down open shots”, warned Tyler Cavanaugh. At 23-1 in the Turkish first division, it looks like Fenerbahce will run away with the title, but to Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul with Tyler Cavanaugh and other teams will do all they can to make this post season exciting.

Christian Hinckson(BG Hessing Leitershofen) Is A Swiss Army Knife That Wants To Grow Into A 2 Way Player

Christian Hinckson (201-G-1999, college: Binghamton) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Queens, New York playing his second professional season overseas with BG Hessing Leitershofen (Pro B). Last season he played his rookie season with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 13.1ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.3%He began his career at John Bowne high school and also gained experience at Tilton Prep school. He began his college career at Manhattan College (NCAA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.0apg and 7.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 35.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 72.1%. He then moved on to Binghamton University (NCAA) averaging 3.1ppg, 3.4rp, 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Christian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Germany with BG Leitershofen. What kind of an experience has it been and what do you appreciate most about the opportunity?

My first year in Germany has been a great experience so far, I am enjoying my time out here and love it. What I appreciate the most is that I’m able to play basketball everyday as my career and to showcase my talents in a well- respected market.

The club is in it´s third Pro B season and finished 9 and 11ththe last 2 seasons. This season the team is battling the RheinStars for the top spot. What has been the secret to the success?

Buying into the culture and embracing roles has been a secret to our success. It’s a fun brand of basketball we play and we have great players that compliments our run and gun style of play.

The team scores a lot of points with 93 per game, but also defend very well allowing 77 points per game. What is the team´s biggest strength on defense?

Our defensive versatility and aggressive style of play is our biggest strength on defensive. We have guards/wings who pressure the ball well and our bigs are athletic and agile so we can guard multiple positions with different matchups.

Leitershofen split with the RheinStars this season and the 2 games were decided by not more than 7 points. How hungry is the team to win the pro B South and be better than last season´s finalist?

We are really hungry, our as coach Richie would say we need “Saliva” meaning to be the hunters and killers as we perform. Our goal is to move up to Pro A so we are doing whatever it takes to make it there.

Your averaging 8/3/2/1 stats and shooting 36% from outside. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role on the team is to use my versatility on both ends to make plays. Defending, scoring, play-making anything that can be done to help the team win I do.

You were efficient in the NCAA. Your showing this season that your efficient. Did you develop that in the NCAA?

Yes the NCAA most definitely has helped my efficiency. Playing division 1 basketball humbled me and made me realize at every level there are roles on each team, so being efficient in your role and time played is very important.

Talk a little about the big man combo of Elias Marei and Ferenc Gille? How do they compliment each other best and what do you appreciate most about their games?

Elias and Ferenc have done plenty of good this season for our team. They do a great job being vocal on the defensive end and rim running in transition. What I appreciate the most about their games is their motors and how hard they play. Every game for sure you know you will get 100% effort out of them.

How valuable is in being teammates with fellow American rookie Asa Williams He played at 3 JUCO schools. Do you feel that chip on his shoulder??

Asa has made my journey here in Germany much easier. Coming from America, we had a few mutual friends prior to knowing each other and are able to relate. He’s also my roommate so we spend a lot of time together off the court. Without a doubt I feel that chip on his shoulder, he is a fierce competitor and we speak about it all the time about how much this opportunity means to him and the adversity he has faced playing basketball. He is having a special season, breaking records etc. and I’m rooting for him and his success.

How valuable is Dragos Dickulescu? Is he the motor of the team?

Dragos is extremely valuable to our team and has been our go to guy. He’s a very smart player and is talented. He has been a great leader and motor for us and his resume as a pro speaks for itself.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I was told by prior teammates I play like Khris Middleton or Kawhi Leonard but I’ve never been able to compare myself.

You have always been a guy that can fill the stat sheet well. Would you call yourself a Swiss army knife? Your game reminds me a bit of Pro A player Cam Henry of Kirchheim.

I would definitely call myself a Swiss Army knife! Versatility has been my game for most of my life and I have played several different positions all throughout my career. I do not know of Cam, but I’m interested to look up his highlights now

Your shooting the three pointer very well at the moment. What do you still have to do to make the next step as a shooter?

To make the next step as a shooter I would love to start taking and making deeper shots.

How would you describe your defensive game? You were a star defender in college. 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 a smart and versatile defender. I know how to use my physical gifts to my advantage. I know I am a pretty good defender but there is still room for growth for me in every aspect of defensive. I want to be known as a two way player.

You played at Manhattan college from 2018-2020. What kind of an experience was that for you? You made a big increase of minutes to 13 more in your second season.

I enjoyed my time at Manhattan college and played a different style of basketball than I was used to. My first few year I got used to the speed and physicality of the college game. The year after that my minutes increased because I had a productive summer and worked on my weaknesses.

You had some big games at Manhattan including 16 points in a 57-53 win over Fairfield. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment at Manhattan was off the court. The bond I built with my teammates was like no other and I still keep in touch with most of them.

You then played at Binghamton University (NCAA) from 2020-2023 averaging 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. What memories do you have of these 3 years? You scored 20 points in a 81-79 win over Columbia.

What was most memorable through those years was the atmosphere we played in. Loved playing in front of about 2 to 4 thousand people every home game.

How did head coach Lavell Sanders who played 14 years in the Czech Republic groom and prepare you for a professional career?

Coach Sanders helped me a lot and I am thankful for him. He prepared me for Europe by teaching me a lot of the terminology and reads I see here in Germany and simplified my game a lot. It was an honor learning from him since he was once a professional and knows the ins and outs of the European game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Miles Gibson?

Miles and I had many battles 1-1, I would say it’s an even split.

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

Ex teammate Hamidou Diallo

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There are too many to name.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James

Michael Jordan

Kevin Durant

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

Haha I may get some hate for this but I have never seen the sequel. I watched the first one and it was great but had no idea there was a sequel.

Thanks Christian for the chat.

The NBA Offense Style At Florida International Has Helped Tevin Brewer(with Kipina Aanekoski ) Average 10 Assists Per Game As A Rookie Overseas

Tevin Brewer (173-PG-1999, college: Duquesne) is a 173cm guard from Arkansas that played his rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A) averaging 29,3ppg,4,6rpg, 10,1apg and 2,2spg. He began his basketball career with Northside high school. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. he then played 3 years at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 76.7% in his second season and 15.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 82.9% in his last season. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

You’re playing your rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about being in Finland?

Finland has been a different experience. They play more physical over here and don’t give you a lot of calls that you are used to getting in the states. But how they move the ball and shoot a lot of threes I´m very used to it. I think I have enjoyed learning how they play basketball over here adapting to their style of basketball this year.

You had to pay your dues in college playing 2 years in JUCO, but then had a solid NCAA career at 2 different schools. Now you’re paying your dues again. How big is the chip on your shoulder and how do you cope with it?

There always a chip on my shoulder. Everybody thinks I’m too small but I played at the highest levels in high school and college so I always had the confidence and know I could excel playing basketball. The way I cope with is by working hard and knowing I put in the work that most people don’t put in and it will always show.

How big of a challenge has it been being a basketball player at 173cm? Is your heart bigger than most players out there?

I don’t think it’s a challenge for me because I know I out work a lot of people. I definitely have the biggest heart and some the best IQ in the game.

Your averaging 29/4/10/2 stats. How content have you been with your game? What was the biggest adjustment coming overseas for you?

I feel like this a great start to my career but I’m not content I feel like I could shoot even better then what I have been and it showed last game in my eyes im 45-50% from the three point line. The biggest adjustment is just how physical they let us play. Some calls I don’t get that I usually would.

How cool has it been being reunited with ex NCAA teammate Victor Hart? Are you guys like brothers?

I think it was great to reunite with my teammate. I knew he would be a great fit playing with me because he is versatile and I know with my playmaking abilities I could give him the ball where he likes to get his shot and help him excel.

Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 173cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would make the best description?

I think I would compare my game to Trae Young and Darius Garland the way they get their teammates involved and make the game easier for them. Also how good I shoot the ball like them and have a floater that makes them and me be a 3 level scorer.

You almost averaged 6,0apg one season in the NCAA and averaged10,0apg as a rookie. Do you feel your playmaking will continue to develop as you move up to higher leagues?

Yea I always feel like I have been a great passer and love making the game easier for my teammates so I feel more and more people real recognize my playmaking ability.

You are an above average three point shooter. You shot 40% one season in the NCAA and doing it as a pro. How vital is your three pointer in your game?

I feel like this a very important to my game because teams can´t leave me open on the perimeter or go under the ball screen when I have the ball. I don’t need much space so teams try to take away the space for the shot so that makes it easier to use my quickness to get my floater or layup.

You’re also a very aggressive defender. Where do you see yourself as a defender in your development? Where do you still want to go with your defensive game in the next years?

I feel like my defense is underrated. I don’t get beat off the dribble maybe once or twice during the game. I also read passing lanes and kind of anticipate where the ball is going next. I average two steals this year I see that part of my game getting even stronger in the future. I think I could’ve had more steals this year so I’m definitely going to improve on all steals and passing lane steals in the years to come.

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

The area of my game I’m working on the most will be my strength continue to get my body stronger and that will help me more aggresive on defense and my shot making ability you will always have a job if you shoot the ball well so I will work on this most to stay consistent and be dangerous.

You played at 2 JUCO schools Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. Every guy I interviewed that played JUCO said it was a grind, but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was definitely a grind especially at my first school Eastern. Coffeyville I loved it I played most with my friends in AAU and we were winning almost every game by 15-20 plus points and were top 5 all year so yea I´m glad I was a part of the JUCO grind.

What memories do you have of the Final 4 run with Coffeyville Community College? What was so special about that team?

Just enjoying the process with my teammates and friends. We all bonded together and that was what made us so good on the court. We played defense at a high level and could shoot the ball and run with any team we played that year. We went 31 -4 and did 5 out 5 in my number went down but the team was so good I didn’t have to score so much.

You played 3 years at Florida International (NCAA) improving your scoring each season. How did your game grow under Jeremy Ballard?

We played NBA Style offense so it helped me understand the ball screen read which slows the game for me and helped my playmaking ability grow. This offense is the reason I feel I’m averaging 10 assists my rookie year.

You finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. You played your first game against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky playing 14 minutes. What memories will you have playing against this top school and what Wild Cat player do you remember impressing you the most?

I really was not supposed to play this game because I got sick 3-4 weeks before and was in the hospital with appendicitis. But I wanted to just experience Rupp arena and playing against a legendary coach. Antonio Reeves was a player who impressed me the most with his shooting ability.

How did your game grow in your last NCAA season under former professional player Dru Joyce. Him being a ex guard must of helped your game?

He was a real defensive minded coach so he always was hard on me about staying engaged on defense and just growing as leader.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dae Dae Grant?

We really didn’t play 1-1 in college but he always made me better and I always made him better.

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

I got a couple but I would have to say Trae Young, Malik Monk and Michael Porter jr were the best I ever faced.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Shai Gilgeous Alexander, Dae Dae grant, Isaiah joe, Daniel Gafford, Jimmy tre Clark

What is your personal NBA mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

I would say Michael Jordan. HIs dominance in the game I feel like no one has come close to his killer mentality besides Kobe.

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

I have seen the second movie but I definitely feel like they should’ve left it alone too much of classic and the made the second one too late.

Thanks Tevin for the chat.

The Goal Of 50 Points Is There For Tevin Brewer After Exploding For 45 Points In A Playoff Game In Finland

Tevin Brewer (173-PG-1999, college: Duquesne) is a 173cm guard from Arkansas that is played his rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A). He began his basketball career with Northside high school. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. he then played 3 years at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 76.7% in his second season and 15.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 82.9% in his last season. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball after scoring 45 points in a game.

Thanks Tevin for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

I’m in Finland right now playing in 1st division A. Basketball has been treating me good after sitting out of year because of passport issues I was ready to get back on the court as soon as possible and I think my play this year as shown that.

Congrats on getting by HBA-Marsky 3-1. You saved your best for last scoring 45 points. How draining was this series? They were all shoot out games.

This was great series between them I think they were a great test for us to go into the semifinals and be ready for JBA. The team getting healthy and I think we are ready.

Talk a little about the game. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think me being the point guard was a key and was just to the settle the team down when they made runs and being a great leader.

You have had many explosive games in your rookie season, but 45 points was the most so far. Was that the most points that you have scored in a game in your life?

Yes 45 is the most I scored in my life I had 43 and 42 a couple times. I have had a couple 40 point games this year.

Did you eat anything special for breakfast or was it the just normal pre game routine?

It was a normal day I didn’t do anything special.

How quickly did you know during the game that you would have another really good scoring game?

I knew it would be a good scoring game at halftime. I had 20 points at halftime and barely missed any shots. I had 20 a couple times at halftime this season but wasn’t as efficient as this game.

You weren´t far away from 50 points. Do you feel like some of your 2 point attempts could have been made?

I had like one of two that got blocked and yea a some of them where short because fatigue kicked in.

Now that you have hit for 45 points, is 50 points a goal?

I always feel like I could score 50 just like last game I took a couple plays getting denied and getting double teamed. So yes 50 is a goal if I get the chance.

What was your favorite own bucket and assist of the game?

I made a three in the third quarter where I shot it and turned around before the ball was halfway to the rim.

Did you get any special congratulations after the game from someone that you didn´t expect from?

Not really nobody special. People have seen me have a games like that through my high school and college career.

Do you get donuts or did the team take you out to dinner?

We got something to eat right after the game but nothing too special.

Thanks Tevin for the chat.

Adrian Breitlauch(Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) Enjoys The Unselfishness This Season And The Challenge To Always Find The Best Shot On Each Possession

Pic credit Dennis Green

Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 31 year old 193cm guard playing his 7th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win against Nurnberg.

Thanks Adrian for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big 92-78 win over Nurnberg. How good did it feel sweeping the season series?

Thank you. It felt really good. It was a big team win and we stuck together. It was a big win because our rest program is very difficult. This was a big step in the direction of the playoffs.

Bremerhaven had the slim 49-44 lead at the break. Jack Pagenkopf made it difficult for Bremerhaven to get away. What made it so difficult to contain him?

He is very versatile and very dangerous from outside. His team did a good job getting him good looks. He is also a very talented individual player. But we knew that if we would find to our team game again in the second half that we would win.

Bremerhaven led 71-59 after 3 quarters. What adjustments did the team make? You finally found to your team basketball.

Yes we did find back to our team basketball, but key was our defense. We heightened our intensity. We too often allow big runs again to the opponent to make the game exciting. We didn´t do that this time.

They made a run at the start of the fourth quarter, but the Eisbaeren closed out the game with a 20-8 run. Did the 6 straight free throws by you and Daniel Norl break their neck? How proud were you of the team character?

We showed super team character. We are young, but know to stick together in tough times. Different guys always step up. It can be anyone on our team.

You led all scorers with 21 points. You almost had a perfect game shooting 7/8. How happy with your efficiency?

I wanted to go 8/8. But I´m not at all disappointed by that. It was a fun game to play. My teammates did a really good job finding me. And as usual when the first few go in, you get that good feeling that more will go in.

The team missed the playoffs last season and this season are a top 5 team. What have you enjoyed most about this season?

I have enjoyed how coach Steve Esterkamp has put in new wind here. It is a relatively new team and we found harmony quickly. For us players, it isn´t only a job, but a commitment. We all push each other and everybody understands each other well.

What I think is so special this season is how well the team plays together. Could one give the team the middle name “Unselfish”?

Yes it could be. Esterkamp has really helped us with that team focus. After games we will watch film and he will ask us how we rate a shot and then asks us if we can find a better shot. He holds us responsible and always wants us to look for the best shot.

The last 3 games are tough with Jena, Giessen and Hagen. You lost to Giessen and Jena. How is Bremerhaven a different team than 4 months ago?

We grew as a team in the last months. We are a young team and have gone through lows, but we have become stronger. We are calmer now. We lost to Giessen and Jena at the end. The playoffs start for us now. We want to show what we are made of.

I saw a game in Koblenz and enjoyed the ball movement and unselfishness? How do you explain the development of that?

It was a big focus for us from the start. It is a big challenge for the guards Miller, Hemschmeier, Norl and Biss to make the right decisions. But they have grown in their challenge to bring team basketball on the court.

This team has no super star. Is team the superstar?

Yes that is exactly right.

How vital has head coach Steven Esterkamp been for the success? He had misfortune with Paderborn last season but this season has proven that he can rebound from adversary. What has been his biggest strength?

His biggest strength is that he has a clear vision and is a good communicator and tells us exactly what he wants. He is very strict is how we should execute

How much fun is it playing with Carlos Carter? Is he the ultimate Swiss army knife?

He can play everywhere and guard anyone. He has been a huge enrichment on the court and off the court he has been a lot of fun.

How talented is Peter Hemschemeier? Does he have easyCredit BBL potential?

In his mindset he has no fear of anything on the court. He has a very creative game and very far for his age. It is hard to believe that he is already in his 5th pro season at age 21. He has BBL potential.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Daniel Norl?

I win, but the rest will say that he will win because he is more creative,

Thanks Adrian for the chat,

Kenan Reinhart(Dragons Rhondorf) Was Able To Learn Mental Toughness from Legend Dirk Bauermann

pic credit: Martin Jung

Kenan Reinhart (194-SG-2007) is a 18 year old 194cm guard playing his second season for the Dragons Rhondorf. Last season he averaged 3,7ppg in the Pro B for the Dragons and in the NBBL for Bonn averaged 17.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 85.4%, In the 2023-2024 season for the RheinStars he averaged 3,1ppg in the Pro B and 24.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.3apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 80.3% in the NBBL. He also played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) in 2024 averaging 6.5ppg, 2.3rpg and at the FIBA U17 World Cup in Istanbul (Turkey) -2024 averaging 4.0ppg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Kenan for talking to ghermanhoops.com. You just finished the 2023-2024 season and it was a heavy load with, AST, NBBL, Pro B and the World Cup U-17. How was the season for you mentally and physically?

I feel strong! I love basketball and it’s fun. That always matter it easier no made how tough the struggle may be.

You played at the U-17 World Cup and Germany finished in 11th place. How did you summarize the tournament? I guess you can’t make excuses with some guys not being there?

It was a really good learning experience to see where we stand against the rest of the world. I felt like we were competitive. We always gave our best to stay with the opponent.

Germany had some loses to Turkey and France. Did these games show that there was a big difference in talent and class?

I don’t think so. They had some really good players. We had already demonstrated in the preparation that we could stay with them.

What could you learn from games like these?

To always keep fighting and never give up. A game has 40 minutes and you should never give up early.

You averaged 4,0ppg at the World Cup U-17. How did you summarize your play?

My three pointer didn’t fall well. I tried to help my team as best as I could and just give my best in the minutes that I got.

You also played at the AST. I remember watching a tough loss to Serbia and then an almost win against China. What were you able to take from the AST?

We had a good mentality after the loss to Serbia and just looked ahead and prepared for the next team. We had no time to cry. We had a very young team. I felt we gave our best given the circumstances.

What is it like being coached from Dirk Bauermann. He is a legend and is lauded from his players for his work with the young players. What kind of a relationship do you have with him and how has he helped you most?

It was an hon0ur to play for a legend like that. I had a very good relationship with him. The most important thing that he taught me was mental toughness.

What has it been like being teammates with athletic Jervis Scheffs. Did anyone console him after missing key shots against China at the end?

It was nobody’s fault. We win and lose as a team. We pushed each other in practice no matter what.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 194cm shooting guard. To what pro player have you heard comparisons from other people about how you play the game?

I hear the name Andi Obst a lot and recently have heard Reed Shephard who recently was drafted. I’m shot dominated and play good defense. I give whatever the team needs.

You’re a great scorer and shooter. Are you more than just a 3 and D player?
I needed to do more in the NBBL and showed it. I do whatever the coach asks of me, but being a 3 and D player is a strength of mine.

Dirk Bauermann said he wants you to become like Andi Obst. Do you follow his game and watch his videos?

I watch a lot of his videos and his natural moves. I tried to copy his step back jumper for my game.

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

I feel like I’m a solid defender, But I know that if I want to play at a higher level, I will have to defend better. Stephan Baeck always stresses that you will stay on the court if you play good defense.

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

My main focus now is on my body and to get more athletic. I’m also working on my mid range game and trying to incorporate a small floater into my game.

You were a member of the RheinStars Cologne. What was it like being part of this great organization? What did you appreciate most from the experience?

We are like a family. I feel like I’m supported from everyone in the organization. You go into the gym and everyone knows you. If you have a good game, they congratulate you and after a bad game they push you.

You had a great NBBL season averaging 24/7/2/1 and played your last game in December. You concentrated more on the pro B. How do you summarize your NBBL season?

I had a successful season and was named rookie of the year. I’m really proud how far we went this season after not winning a game last season.

You made your Pro B debut at age 15 scoring 4 points against Wolmirstedt. What memories do you have of that game?
It wasn’t sure before the game if I would play. I remember thinking on the bus that if I do get in, I won’t be afraid of no one and just play my game.

Last season you played in the Pro B averaging 3,0ppg in 9 minutes. How did your game grow?

The biggest thing that grew was my self-confidence. I want to build off that season this year. Last season was important in that I was able to find myself in the league and understand what I had to do to be successful.

You had so many talented teammates in the Pro B. Which RheinStars Cologne player had the biggest influence on you.

I think that the guys that played at my position with Bryan battle and Tim Lang had the biggest influence on me. They got more minutes and I always pushed myself to be better than them.

You reached the 2023 JBBL top 4. What kind of an experience was it playing there? You and Davi Remagen carried the team.

Davi is a good friend of mine. It was great playing in an atmosphere like that something we had never seen before. It was an unforgettable moment. It was the first JBBL top 4 in the RheinStars history.

How important has Zoran Kucic for your basketball development the last years’? How did he help you most?

Zoran has been very important in my career. I do a lot of individual training with him. He is always ready to train with me when I call him. He really believes in my game.

Why did you leave the RheinStars Cologne to come to the Dragons Rhondorf? Were there too many talented players in Cologne?

I left Cologne because the Telekom Baskets are more professional as there are more chances to move up as a player.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Dragons Rhondorf? What do you like most of the experience?

It has been a very educational experience especially with the coaching change and it is preparing me well for the life as a professional player. I like the atmosphere of the fans the most.

Your minutes have been consistent since the coaching change and before that up and down? What have been the reasons for you being more a part of the rotation?

I think that I was able to prove I could play in the minutes that I got and always tried to help the team as much as possible in practice.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court?

Andreas Seifert.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ruppert Hennen, Bjoern Rohwar, Jannis Von Seckendorf, Davi Remagen, Ali Sow

Please name your personal NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Steph Curry
Shane Larkin, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Milos Teodosic, Luka Doncic
Kendrick Nunn, Dirk Nowitzki, Tibor Pleiss, Dennis Schroeder

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Kenan for the chat.

It’s An Almost Normal Day At The Office For Calvin Wishart Leading The Wurzburg Baskets Akademie Past The Dragons Rhondorf 82-70

The Dragons Rhondorf may be in the playoffs with one foot, but the regular season still had 2 games left. After convincing wins against Frankfurt and Coburg, the Dragons traveled to Ludwigsburg and really stunk up the gym and showed again just how unpredictable they can be this season. The fight for the last playoff places was fierce as there were 3 teams with 11 wins and Frankfurt lurking behind with 10 wins. The Dragons Rhondorf needed a win at home against Wurzburg who came into the game with 13 wins and in fifth place. Wurzburg has been playing good basketball as of late having won 3 of their last 4 games despite not always having full rosters as Hannes Steinbach and Calvin Wishart (188-G-1999, college: UCSB) weren’t always available. On a mild spring evening in Bad Honnef, the Dragons Rhondorf wanted to get back on the winning track while Wurzburg was seeking revenge after suffering a brutal buzzer beater loss on account of Alex Lagerman’s last second shot earlier in the season. However a basketball game has 40 minutes and not 30 as the Dragons Rhondorf were at eye level going into the fourth quarter, but a disastrous start and massive Wurzburg run paved the way to the 82-70 victory. Wurzburg saved their best defense for the end and it paid off as they allowed only 9 points. ‘We stuck together on the road allowing only 70 points. We played tough and we had some guys step up with Sokolov and Narvilas. We switched really well which messed them up’, stressed Wurzburg American Calvin Wishart. The Dragons Rhondorf really needed this win, but saved the most unwanted time of the season to totally collapse in the fourth quarter and now have a do or die game in Cologne against top team Rheinstars next weekend. ‘Our first 2 quarters were Ok and our third quarter was good. We moved the ball well, but Wishart hit tough shots all game long. We couldn’t execute against their zone in the fourth quarter and they hit tough shots which was the difference’, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Kelvin Omojola.

Matas Narvilas at the FT line

Both teams played a high tempo game in the first quarter as it was back and forth at the start, but Wurzburg upped their energy a bit more and executed a bit better to have the 20-15 advantage after 10 minutes. The game went back and forth in the first minutes as there were 6 lead changes. Ohio native Tim Smith Jr scored 2 baskets while Wurzburg was aided by 2 three’s from Minnesota native Calvin Wishart and ex Ibam guard Jonas Maerz. The Dragons hat difficulty hitting the three, but scored inside leading 8-7. However the Bavarian squad coached by ex German national player Alex King then heightened their game and went on a stifling 13-4 run to lead 20-12. In the run, Wurzburg played super team ball sharing the love around as Calvin Wishart made an amazing acrobatic lay in, ex Speyer player David Pisic a lay in, Lukas Roth a trey and Matas Narvilas a lay in. The Dragons Rhondorf were sloppy with their 1-1 defense, but doing a great job on the boards despite trailing. Wurzburg defended aggressively and forced the Dragons to tough shots which allowed them to have the 8 point lead. Ex Orange Academy guard Marko Rosic made a smart play at the end reading the pick and roll well and nailing a trey as Wurzburg led only 20-15 at the end of the first quarter. ‘We knew it would be a long game, so we went in very focused. We went in poised and weren’t to hyped’, said Calvin Wishart. Wurzburg shot 31% from the 2 point area and 38% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 33% from the 2 point area and 20% from outside and had 15 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

Janne Muller from outside

In the second quarter the Wurzburg Baskets Akademie tried to break away, but the Dragons Rhondorf stayed with them and only trailed by 2 points at the break. Both clubs began with mini runs as ex Frankfurt player Alexander Lagerman scored back to back baskets with a lay in and then steal and coast to coast lay in spinning his way past an opponent as Wurzburg led 20-19, but the guests punched back with a 3 point play by Wishart and role player Eduard Ranz made a lay in as the Dragons trailed 25-19. But the Dragons didn’t let up, but struck back with a 5-0 run as they got a big trey by Mamadou Diallo and an offensive rebound and put back by ex BBL player Marco Rahn to trail 25-24. The Dragons got great support from their bench and worked extra hard on the offensive glass to preserve extra chances. But this time Wurzburg went on a big 10-2 run to lead 35-26 and didn’t allow the Dragons to punch back. In the run Wurzburg was led by their explosive walking bucket Calvin Wishart who supplied 8 points with 2 three’s while German David Gerhard also made a lay in. Wishart was the motor and his teammates followed his lead which increased the team energy while the Dragons Rhondorf got static in their offense and were missing that go to guy. But the Dragons woke up punching back with a 9-2 run to trail only 37-35. In the run, it was young Lithuanian Danas Kazakevicius who became that go to guy added 7 points as his energy and inside presence totally sparked his team as they defended more aggressively. In the last minutes, it was both teams bigs that dominated as Kazakevicius scored twice as did Clemons Sokolov including a pretty hook shot. 2024 U-18 Gold medalist Janne Muller ended the first half with a lay in as the Dragons Rhondorf trailed 43-41. ‘This was our worst quarter. We lost some energy. Coach was mad at us for making dumb mistakes’, stated Calvin Wishart. The Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 44% from the 2 point area and 36% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 41% from the 2 point area and 22% from the three point line and had 31 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

Clemens Sokolov with the lay in

In the third quarter there were 6 lead changes and the Dragons Rhondorf tried to get away as they led by 5 points, but Wurzburg remained tough and led 62-61 after 30 minutes. Wurzburg had the narrow lead after a few minutes. Smith Jr hit a 20 footer and Rahn a trey, but Wurzburg also executed getting a 20 footer from Narvilas and lay in and free throw by Wishart as the Dragons trailed 48-46. The Dragons Rhondorf then collected some momentum going on a 9-2 run led by Kelvin Omojola to lead 55-50. One of Omojola’s biggest strength besides his trey is his aggressiveness and he scored twice with pretty lay in’s as he found his spots and scored. Rahn continued to also be aggressive and display his inside out game as he made another trey and made another offensive rebound and put back. Wurzburg’s intensity dipped a bit while the Dragons intensity was sky high at both ends and they also worked collectively very well on the boards. But the Dragons couldn’t break away as Wurzburg found their offensive rhythm again thanks to Mr motor Calvin Wishart that punished Rhondorf twice inside as they couldn’t contain him for 2 lay in’s and later he connected on a trey as Wurzburg had grabbed the lead back. ‘It was a close game. We fought back after their run. We were getting stops, but just not stringing them together yet’, commented Calvin Wishart. ‘We played well on offense. Our ball movement was good as we were swinging the ball side by side and getting great looks. We were all clicking. On defense we forced tough shots and rebounded well’, expressed Kelvin Omojola. The Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 51% from the 2 point area and 27% from the parking lot an dhad 32 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 43% from the 2 point area and 31% from the parkin g lot and 42 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Alexander Lagerman at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the most important quarter of the season, the Dragons Rhondorf were unable to play their game as they allowed a 11-0 run and were stopped 12 times in a row which they couldn’t recover from and caused the loss. Both teams couldn’t execute well in the first few minutes as both teams were stopped 4 times, but then Wurzburg found out of their funk going on a 11-0 run to extend their lead 73-61 and putting them in great position to win. In the run, the guests were aided most by Matas Narvilas who added 7 points while Wishart made a lay in and Sokolov also scored in the paint. ‘Matas had been sick, but I’m glad he was back. I told him before the game that we really need him. We need his offense and he produced. I told him this is no warm up, but game time’, added Calvin Wishart. Wurzburg showed that they didn’t only need Wishart in the games biggest run. Wishart had a great game with 31 points, 8 assists, 4 rebounds, 5 steals and 2 blocks from him, but it was an almost normal day at the office. ‘It was a normal day at the office except for the 2 blocks. I had a nice Lebron chase down block. I just try to do whatever the team needs to win’, said Calvin Wishart. The Dragons Rhondorf couldn’t produce against the Wurzburg zone. When they finally did break through, it was at 4,26 minute mark as Lagerman scored and it was a 10 point game. In crunch-time, Wurzburg managed the lead well and just hurt the Dragons inside as Clemens Sokolov scored 3 times totally hampering their come back attempt. They got free throws from Janne Muller and a lay in by Kazakevicius, but they just couldn’t get over the hump. Omojola and Narvilas traded baskets at the end as the game finished. ‘We found the mismatches. We really didn’t have many plays. I was just told, ‘Calvin go downhill and create an advantage. We also strung together stops. I told the guys going into the fourth quarter that this game was ours’, warned Calvin Wishart. ‘We weren’t prepared to execute against their zone. Wishart has the ultimate green light. He is always in attack mode. That makes it really difficult to defend’, stressed Kelvin Omojola. The Wurzburg Baskets Akademie were led by Calvin Wishart with 31 points while Clemens Sokolov added 19 points and Matas Narvilas had 18 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Danas Kazakevicius with 14 points while Alexander Lagewrman and Marco Rahn combined for 12 points a piece. The Wurzburg Baskets Akademie shot 43% from the field and 23% from outside and had 45 rebounds and 9 turnovers and the Dragons Rhondorf shot 36% from the field and 20% from outside and had 52 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

It Doesn´t Matter Who D´Monte Brown(BG Aschersleben Tigers) Is Playing Against As He Always Wants The Challenge Like Kobe Bryant

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who played his rookie season overseas with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 24,6ppg, 11,2rpg, 3,8apg, 2,9spg and 1,0bpg. He began his basketball career at Petersburg High School. He then played at 3 schools starting with Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. He then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7% and then played 2 years at Langston University, OK (NAIIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%.He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks D´Monte for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

I am currently in Aschersleben, Germany Basketball is really treating me pretty good Trying to get a feel for overseas basketball definitely had some struggles from the start. But I am the top leading scorer in the league right now. I held the number one spot for four weeks averaging a double double and averaging 10 rebounds a game. I also was nominated to win player of the year this year. I´m ranked number five in the league and rebounds and ranked top 10 in scoring in the league Ranked number seven and steals in the league Ranked number two VAL in the league 7x double doubles in the season.

How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? One doesn´t often see NAIA guys making it overseas?

It’s a real blessing to be able to play overseas since there are over 1 million around the world and college students in the United States, so getting a full roster for an overseas team is the toughest thing you can think about. Getting a contract is definitely a disturbing moment in your mind, but I always felt like I was chosen.

Your playing your rookie season for BG Aschersleben (Regionalliga) What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the basketball experience?

Yes, this is my rookie season, but I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder that says I’m not a rookie, I’m a pro. The best part was seeing different players from different countries and the fans treating you like a superstar.

What have you appreciated most about the culture and landscape of Germany?

Nice city Berlin.

Has the Regionalliga been like starting over as if you were in JUCO again?

Not really JUCO is really tough the hardest thing that you can play is Juco.

Aschersleben hasn´t had the best season. How have you experienced the season? I guess it´s hard to win when you make 73 points per game and allow 95?

While it’s not the best season in the world, winning it takes time and three years of experience with a group of guys, so this year we have a lot of new players working together for the first time.

Aschersleben have 2 lethal scorers with you and Braimoh and a sold scorer with Yannick Von Hain and that’s it. Is there simply too little scoring power to win?

Teams always try to have a scout report ready to stop me, but I tell my teammates to keep their guard up because all the pressures on me will pass to them. It is clear that we have players on our team who are capable of scoring more, but they just need to have confidence and step up when it is time.

What has it been like being teammates with Dion Braimoh? Do you guys share the keys to the team?

We both have ups and downs on the court, but we find a way to be together. I’ve never been on a team where a guy next to me averaged 20. Points Together

Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Mentality to crash the boards to grab rebounds like a Russell Westbrook, have swag on the court and confidence on the court something like Dwyane Wade. I don’t care who I am playing against I don’t care if the best player on the other team is a 7’0 power forward I want the challenge like Kobe Bryant.

You’re a 193cm guard that can fill the stat sheet with ease. What is your biggest strength on the court?

There is no tomorrow mentality, high vertical jump which is required for defense contesting shots, stealing passes rebounding at both ends of the court and shooting to elevate shots over a defender.

You have always been a great rebounder for your size. What is your secret to getting many rebounds?

I have always been a great rebounder because I did a lot of studying on Russell Westbrook always wanting to play just like him mentality go hard for more and his energy.

How would you describe yourself as a defender at the moment? Where do you still want to go with your game?

I describe myself always been a tough difficult defender and always had that mentality that I got anybody point guard through center.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

Probably shooting the three-shot.

You played at 2 JUCO schools that is rare. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that the grind was difficult but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

I agree playing JUCO. The talent was so amazing something like the NBA but different. I think it´s so competitive it’s because everybody is trying to get to a four-year college and it’s not no guaranteed.

You played 2 seasons at Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. You reached the JUCO final in 2021. What memories do you have of that run?

The memories that I can share with you was I hit a game winner with the shot to go to the final four.

How vital was head coach Dennis Gibson in helping you mature of high school to JUCO in the 2 years that you were there?

Yes, Dennis Gibson was always tough coaching me and he believed in me off and on the court.

You then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7%. Why did you take an extra JUCO year? Were you not ready for the next step then?

I took another year because I always wanted to play in Miami Florida.

You then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%. You won 2 SAC titles. Which one was sweeter?

It was definitely my first year at Langston University before I got there they only won one game 1-25 I came in and changed everything around At Langston University 66-5 Record – Back-to-Back Conference Champions – Back-to-Back Conference Tournament Champions – Ranked #2 and #3 in the country – History’s biggest college sports turnaround -4x rings& regular season champs conference champs running up and also played in a national championship team.. The best HBCU school in the world went 25-0.

In your senior year you reached the NAIA Final 4. You lost a tough game to FHU 61-57. What memories will you always have from that game?

We lost the game 45 seconds to go in the game and we was up by seven. We had four turnovers in 10 seconds then lost the game.

How did head coach Chris Wright groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

As a coach, he has always been tough and always made everything difficult for me, telling me to take everything seriously and not think of the next day shot.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Toru Dean?

Me of course he is too small for me but it will be a close game..

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

Frank Mason

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I don’t have a 5, but have more than that Anthony Roy Toru Dean Cortez Mosley Malik Whitaker Cameron Selders Robel Desta David Blanc

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James,Russell Westbrook James Harden,Michael Jordan

Who is your GOAT?

DMONTE BROWN “

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

I don’t have no answer for that.

Thanks D´monte for the chat.

It´s Not Cody Or Steph But Simply Duke Deen As He Is Looking To Make An Impact With The Skyliners In The Stretch Run

Pic credit: Bradley University

Even if the Frankfurt Skyliners won´t make the playoffs this season, they still want to close out the season with as many wins as possible. On account of an injury to rookie and ex Wright State guard Trey Calvin, they got active on the transfer market one last time and signed rookie Cody Deen. The odds will be very good that no one will ever call him Cody. Everybody calls him Duke and that has been like that his whole life. But seriously how could one even take the name Cody over Duke? “My dad would call me, ‘Dude,’ all the time, “A teacher heard it and thought he said Duke. People started calling me Duke and that was it, I’ve been Duke my whole life. I tell people, ‘Just call me Duke, stated Duke Deen (173-PG-2001) to the Journal Star”. I can already imagine how enthusiastic Skyliners MOC Mark Geberth-Hindermayer will yell Duke for the first time when he makes his home debut against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg next week. But who knows, if he starts making many three´s for the Frankfurt Skyliners and very very tough and crazy shots, fans might have a new name for him. “Duke is a shorter version of Steph Curry. He is a great three point shooter, makes the really tough shots and moves very well without the ball”, stressed Bradley (NCAA) special assistant to the head coach Pat Althof.

Duke Deen was born on December 17th, 2001 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He played football and baseball as a kid, but began to play basketball at age 5 and fell in love with the game. He played 2 seasons at Bossier high school and led the school to the 3A state title in 2020 averaging 15,5ppg, 4,0apg and 3,0rpg. He had to fight adversary right away and had to pay his dues in Juco playing with Panola College averaging 20.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 86.0%. He was ranked 19th in scoring and 47th in assists in the country. It is no surprise that he has had a chip on his shoulder his whole life. “Duke has never had an issue with his height. He always has found ways to get around it. Of course he has a chip on his shoulders, but he will always compete and make winning plays”, stressed Pat Althof. After his strong JUCO season, he was rewarded with his first NCAA gig playing at Troy averaging 9.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 82.3%. He made an impact right away winning the All-Sun Belt Freshman of the Year award. He displayed his winning mentality helping the team to 20 wins which was the team best league mark in 12 years. He scored in double figures in 16 games including 20 points against JSU and 17 points apiece against UT Martin and FAU.

He then made one more move and joined Bradley (NCAA) and played 3 seasons there playing a total of 79 games. In his first season he averaged 7.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 76.5%. He scored in double figures 3 times including games of 18 and 11 points against UNI. His game really took off in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 13/3/3 stats in 72 games. He scored in double figures in 54 games including monster games against Missouri State with 35 points and 31 points against Indiana State. 2 seasons ago he led Bradley into the NIT Sweet 16 and last week into the NIT Elite 8 losing a heartbreaker to Chattanooga 69-67 where he scored 13 points, and had 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. “Both runs were great. He was a big leader and a big part of the team. He took many big shots. It was really tough losing to Chattanooga. Duke hit a big shot to tie the game, but they then came back and hit the shot to win the game”, remembered Pat Althof. Deen had so many great games at Bradley (NCAA) in his 3 year career, but was there one that stood out most to Althof? “He had a number of big games that I will always remember. I remember him hitting 9 three´s against Missouri State and many game winners. I will always remember his game winner against UIC”, commented Pat Althof.

So what kind of player will German basketball fans witness from Duke Deen and what is his biggest strength? “He is a great three point shooter that will shoot from all over the court and from different angles. He is also a great leader and teammate that will always get all involved and try to help the program as much as possible”, stated Pat Althof. The Skyliners hopes that Deen´s three point shooting will leave a mark right away. He made massive strides in his shooting at Bradley. In his first season he was only at 28%, but in his last 2 years shot 38% and 39%. “His shooting has improved because Duke put in the continuous work. He was in the gym each morning and after practice and got more shots up. It was just continuous work that showed in the games”, expressed Pat Althof. He can also make an impact on the defensive end as he improved greatly at Bradley. “He worked very hard in the gym to get stronger. He became a very good defender being able to use his quickness. Nobody was picking on him in the zone”, warned Pat Althof. A hidden strength of his is moving without the ball and getting around screens and using the angles right, but there is one thing that he is working on most as he learns to adapt to the pro game overseas. “He was always a good passer, but he is working hard to keep growing as a facilitator. When you’re a small guard, you have to be able to score and pass the ball”, warned Pat Althoff. The Frankfurt Skyliners have 9 games left and Duke Deen will get enough opportunities to shine. Will his winning ways rub off on the Skyliners who are in 16th place? “ Duke is 100% motivated. He is coming from a winning culture and he wants to win a lot of games. He has a great personality and will be good with the fans and coaches. He will bring a lot of value to the Skyliners”, stated Pat Althof. A big luxury for the Skyliner players is that their training facility and office is situated in a big mall in Frankfurt. “I will always remember how Duke would always ask his teammates if they wanted to get a bite to eat. He would drive them there. He was always there for his teammates”, warned Pat Althof. Being there for his teammates will most likely continue in Frankfurt, but perhaps in the first few days, his Skyliner teammates will show him the best places to eat in the mall.

It Is No Wonder That Beyuan Hendricks(Seawolves Academy) Picked Something Up From Darius Garland´s Game After Battling Him For 3 Years During High School

Beyuan Hendricks (193-PG, college: Lee) is a 193cm guard from Tennessee that played his rookie season overseas with Basketball Club Batumi (Georgia-Superleague).He was supposed to continue his rookie season in Germany with the Seawolves Academy but health problems didn´t allow him to suit up. He began his basketball career at Baylor High School and then played 5 seasons and 134 games with Lee University (NCAA2). In his 5th year he averaged 16.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 70.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Beyuan for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to Germany. What do you know in general about Germany and it´s basketball?

I honestly don’t know much, other than the NBA players that are from Germany. Dirk, Mo and Franz Wagner, Dennis Schroeder

You came to a losing team. What were the main reasons for joining Rostock? Was the challenge enticing?

I joined this team because I liked the challenge. I am a winner, and want to help this team remain in Pro B and possibly make the playoffs.

How did the talks go with head coach Tom Schmidt? What did you appreciate most about his coaching philosophy? Will you also be able to practice with the easyCredit BBL team? That will be huge for the development of your game the rest of the season.

Tom is a great guy and a young up and coming coach! He was honest and told me exactly what he wants my role to be on this team and how much I can help. Tom mentioned that I will be able to practice some with them once I get settled in and adjusted to everything.

Is JeQuan Lewis a guy you will try to soak up as much as possible? He has unbelievable experience and is a true playmaker.

Yes, he is a veteran point guard, and I will try to learn as much as I can from him.

Has it felt like going back to school with so many young players on the Rostock Roster? Bringing consistency is a huge thing that coach Schmidt wants you to bring to the team. How big will playmaking be in comparison to scoring?

It’s a whole new team dynamic, much different than Batumi. But I am ready for the opportunity! playmaking season by season.

What has it been like having young German teammates like Mika Freitag and Sydnee Bijlsma? What have you appreciated most about their games?

I love playing with those guys. They are such hard workers and want to get better every day.

You began the season with Basketball Club Batumi (Georgia-Superleague). What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was definitely the first day I was there. I had little to no sleep and had conditioning the very next day.

What kind of an experience was the Basketball Club Batumi (Georgia-Superleague). You had solid stats with 7/3/4 in 28 minutes per game. The team lost a lot. Were you an escape goat or did they expect more from your game in the minutes you received?

I was no where near my best. But I also feel like they blamed me for a lot of the problems we were having. I will be much better here in Germany.

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

I compare myself to a Darius Garland. I’m a quick point guard who can shoot the ball and get down hill and able to make oaters and midrange shots. But also I’m a good passer with great vision and high IQ

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet well. What would you classify as your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength on the court would be my ability to really control the game. Some games I will need to score for us to win, other games I may need to facilitate a little more. I read the defense and make plays based on that.

You shot 44% once in the NCAA 2. Where would you describe is your three point shooting at the moment in your development? What do you have to still do to get to the next level?

That was my best year shooting statistically, but I feel I should shoot in the 40% range every year. I just have to keep shooting.

You’re a very ambitious defender. Where is your defensive game now as a rookie and where do you still want to bring your game in the next years?

I’m very solid on defense. I keep my guy in front and keep him out of the paint and contest every shot. I still want to get stronger so that I am able to guard multiple positions

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

I’ve been working on my ball handling a lot. I already have a nice handle, but I believe there is always room to get the handle quicker and tighter so that no one can stay in front of me.

You played at Lee University (NCAA2) form 2019-2024. You improved your scoring and assists per season each season in your last 3 seasons. How did your game improve at Lee?

Each year my confidence grew higher and higher, and that showed on the court.

In your third season you beat Delta State 79-64 and scored 29 points. What memories do you have of that game. That was your highest scoring game there until that point.

I remember that game vividly. I wasn’t having my best season, but that game I felt like myself again and led to me finishing the season strong and leading into my next two years

What memories of your amazing game winner against delta State in the 73-71 win do you have? You had 19 points and 9 assists.

That was my only game winner during my college career, so it is something I will definitely never forget. It was a back and forth game and I told my teammate Tylon Chatman during the timeout I was going to hit the shot, and indeed I made the shot. Legendary moment

You lost to UAH 115-109 in 5 overtimes and scored 31 points and had 11 dimes in 64 minutes. How tough was the loss, but at the same time how tough was it playing 64 minutes. What memories do you have of that game?

UAH was my college rival. That was the craziest game of my career, and will also never forget that game as well. That was a tough loss, but I was proud of my teammates and how hard we fought the entire game

Who was feeling better after that game you or JJ Barnes? You both logged 64 minutes a piece?

I think we both needed a few days o and some electrolytes lol.

You reached the NCAA 2 tournament in 2024 losing to UWG losing 75-61. What was missing on that day to get the win?

West Georgia was a tough matchup for us. They were very physical and we did not shoot the ball well from 3 especially me.

How did head coach Bubba Smith groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Smith showed me how to show up and give my 100% to basketball every day. He reminded us how blessed we are to be able to play this sport we love, and that we should never take it for granted.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tariq Daughton?

Me every time. He wanted to beat me so bad. I wasn’t letting it happen

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

I played Darius garland for 3 years in high school. He beat my team in the state championship game 50-44.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ashton Hagans, Ryan Montgomery, Jaylin Williams, Pjay Smith, Quay Kennedy

What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Kobe, Steph, Wemby

Who is your GOAT?

King James

Thanks Beyuan for the chat.

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