Thanks, Javontae, for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on scoring 45 points in a game in Switzerland. You scored the most points last week in Europe. How does that make you feel? Thank you very much! It feels amazing to have scored that many points in a game. I am truly blessed. Unfortunately we could not pull away with the win, so that kind of hurt but scoring 45 was awesome!
Was 45 points the most points that you ever scored in a game in your life or did you eclipse that in high school or AAU?
Yes! 45 points is the most points I’ve scored in a game in my career. I scored I believe 38 points in my last high school game and that was the highest until now.
Was it tougher to be able to enjoy this feat since Lugano lost the game in OT 107-103? It was definitely tough to enjoy it because regardless how good you play in a game, you still always want to get the win. Winning is more important to me than my performance. I am still very grateful to have played that well in the game though.
What was key at the end for not getting the victory in OT? Honestly with a game that goes into overtime, a lot of mistakes happen. We got called for 5 technical fouls as a team which is a huge game changer in a close game like that.
What can the team learn from the loss for the next game?
I would say as a team we definitely can learn that small mistakes like 5 technical fouls can really hurt the team in the long run.
How quickly did you know in the game that you would have a good scoring day at the office?
I could tell late in the first quarter that I was going to have a good scoring day because when I was knocking down all of my shots early in the game, I got this confidence boost that made me feel unstoppable.
You have had a great scoring season as a rookie. Do you feel like your scoring has been boosted by more self-confidence knowing you can lite it up on a regular basis? I can say yes because having self-confidence definitely helps me play better throughout the game, but my teammates and coaches being confident in me is the game changer. I owe it all to them for believing in me every game.
Were your teammates telling you at the end that you were over 40 points or did you first find out after seeing the stat sheet? I actually noticed when I checked the stat board to see how many fouls one of their good defensive players had. I was like wow that is crazy, but more importantly I was focused on trying to get the win.
You shot pretty well and could have had 50 with one more three pointer and 2 more free throws made. Is 50 points a realistic goal for you as a scorer now after achieving that?
I would love to score 50 points in a game. Now that I have achieved scoring 45 points, I believe I can get to 50 one day throughout my career.
Thomas Jurkovitz found you a lot. How blessed do you feel to have a guy like that finding you?
Truly blessed to have someone that believes in me and tries their hardest to get me the ball to score and help the team.
What was your favorite bucket of the night?
My favorite bucket was during OT when the other team went on like a 7-0 run to put them up 7 points and my teammates and I were losing the confidence that we would win. So I came down and shot a deep 3 pointer that put us down 4 with about 50 seconds left.
It is always a delight to watch 2 organizations that put a lot of effort, passion and love into their youth programs as the Frankfurt Skyliners and MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg do. Both currently have great young players looking to make the next step. However both teams the Juniors and Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg have struggled as of late having lost 2 of 3 games and 3 of 4 games. A few years ago, Juniors fans were shocked as Sebastian Schwachhofer hit a buzzer beater in Frankfurt to secure the win while this season, Frankfurt won an exciting 82-80 game in Ludwigsburg. On a untypical Wednesday evening Pro B game, Frankfurt welcomed Ludwigsburg and fans were able to see Junior newcomer Chrysostom Chukwuma from Finland for the first time. He was reeled in because German Philipp Hadenfeld is taking another semester abroad. The Finish guard exploded for 28 points in his Pro B debut in Cologne a few days earlier. On this night Chuku Chukwuma didn´t need another explosive evening as he finished with 13 points, but Frankfurt had enough other scoring options on this night including Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007) who had a career high with 29 points leading the Skyliners Juniors to a 95-86 victory over Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg. Frankfurt didn´t play their best game as they had a lot of depth compared to Ludwigsburg who had only 8 players for the game. “It wasn´t a great game from us. It was way to close of a game considering we had a full roster and they had 8 guys. But I feel we handled them well. Even if it´s a ugly game, you have to be able to win the game. It wasn´t a great team performance, but we had good ball movement”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. Ludwigsburg fought for 40 minutes and were led by the duo of Feneberg and Baumer who combined for 53 points. “We fought hard and at times played real good basketball. We were a little unlucky at the end. I was happy though how we played despite the thin roster”, stressed Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg head coach Kheeryoung Rhee. Crnjac had his career best in the Pro B tying his brother Drago who also once scored 29 in the Pro B. “It was a very good game performance from me. I´m sad I didn´t make more points. I missed some easy lay ups, but I´m still happy to be tied with my brother”, stated Ivan Crnjac. “I´m a bit mad that he tied my 29 points. He shot very well. He did a good job staying in the game after having 4 fouls in the third quarter. His teammates found him well and he was very effective. He didn´t do anything wild”, stated Drago Crnjac.
Ivan Crnjac at the FT line
The first few minutes of the first quarter were tight, but Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg then got away a bit only to see Frankfurt rally back and lead by 1 point after 10 minutes. In the first few minutes it was apparent to see that the guests were led by 2 guys Julis Baumer and Simon Feneberg who were the main guys running the offense. The U-18 youth national player Baumer added 5 points while Feneberg made a lay in. These guys would prove all night long that they were as good as unstoppable on the drive. Frankfurt on the other-hand were also executing well on offense as the new Skyliner Chuku Chukwuma added 5 points and Crnjac a trey, but Ludwigsburg had the slim 9-8 advantage. “Chuku Chukwuma isn´t only a classic scorer, but also a good passer. He made some nice no look passes. He calmed the team down when we needed it and also showed his strong 1-1 play on offense”, said Skyliner big man Florian Dietrich. Ludwigsburg then went on a 7-2 run to lead 16-10 as Sebastian Kuhn made a lay in, Baumer free throws and Feneberg a three pointer. Ludwigsburg were very aggressive on defense getting in the passing lanes well and causing turnovers while Feneberg was finding his spots well and Baumer was being an energizer and getting into the paint. However Frankfurt found out of their funk and finished the first quarter with a 13-8 run to lead 23-22 after 10 minutes. In the run, Frankfurt let it rain three´s as Crnjac found the hot hand early nailing 2 three´s while Philipp Hadenfeld also connected from outside. Athletric Lukas Modic gave good energy getting in the lane and scoring twice. “It is never easy playing against a team that is without some of their key players. We started slow, but once we realized that we could play well against 8, we executed better. It was also important that Chukwuma d to get integrated as he played well”, stated Florian Dietrich. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44% from the field and 57% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 6 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 47% from the field and 25% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 4 turnovers.
Simon Feneberg from down town
The second quarter was a real dog fight for the most part, but in the waning minutes of the quarter, the Skyliners Juniors were able to spring free and lead by 10 points at half-time. Frankfurt kept the momentum from the end of the first quarter getting some easy baskets in the first minutes as they went inside. Dusan Nikolic who had a great 20/9/10 game against Nurnberg in NBBL play this season made a lay in while Malik Kordel made 2 dunks including a pretty alley-oop dunk with the prefect feed from Hadenfeld for the 30-25 lead. Modic hit a trey as Ludwigsburg was opting for the outside shooting. Ludwigsburg kept executing well staying with Frankfurt as Marko Masic hit a trey and Baumer scored inside. Long injured Julius Messer also added a three pointer, but the guests were on their tail trailing only 35-34. Frankfurt then got hot again finishing the second quarter with a 15-6 run to lead 50-40 at the break. Nikolic began the drive with an incredible 2 handed dunk from the wing. So what dunk was nicer the Kordel alley-oop or the Nikolic dunk? “Kordel´s was nicer simply because he jumped higher”, said Florian Dietrich. “I think Kordel´s dunk was a little more special”, smiled Ivan Crnjac. Frankfurt got good production from many sides as ex Hanau guard Bruno Albrecht nailed a trey while Jamie Edoka scored twice inside as did Chuku Chukwuma. Kordel made a lay in at the buzzer getting the prefect pass from Chuku Chukwuma. “We played a lot better against their pick and roll defense. Kordel got more touches inside”, said Florian Dietrich. The Skyliners Juniors shot 54% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 11 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 42% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 8 turnovers.
Dusan Nikolic with the dunk
In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors did a good job managing their lead, but got a little sloppy in the last minutes allowing Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg to get close again, but then kept them at bay leading by 5 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt got early support from Bruno Albrecht with another trey while Kordel and Hadenfeldt hooked up again for the dunk and dime. Feneberg continued to be all over the court finding his spots and dropping 2 three´s. Both teams were executing well as Frankfurt got a Crnjac three pointer and step back by ex Kronberg guard Felix Hecker as Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg just couldn´t make any serious ground as they trailed 60-50. After Crnjac made a trey for the 63-50 lead, Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg went on a massive 12-1 run to suddenly only trail 64-62 and it was a game again. In the run, Ludwigsburg got a nice tip in dunk by 205cm Daniel Mack and a trey by Masic while Julis Baumer led the charge with 7 points. “I have a lot of respect for Baumer. I know him since many years. He had made a great development this season and has seen BBL action. He has a lot of potential”, warned Ivan Crnjac. Baumer´s incredible energy sparked his team in this run as Frankfurt had lost intensity and had problems with their aggressive on ball defense. However Frankfurt kept their cool as utility guy Marvin Esser made 2 vital and clutch buckets to help keep the lead at 69-64 after 30 minutes. Esser had 5/4 stats in 6 minutes and couldn´t have been more efficient. “One could see that we were missing experience. Guys have had to take on different roles in the last weeks. Having guys out makes a difference, “added Kheeryoung Rhee. “We executed well and had important stops in key phases. They got too many easy baskets”, commented Ivan Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors shot 53% from the field and 41% from the parking lot and had 31 rebounds and 17 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 47% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Julis Baumer at the FT line
In the fourth quarter Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg kept fighting and cut Frankfurt´s lead down to 1 poins, but they just couldn´t get over the hump as Frankfurt prevailed and broke away in crunch-time. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg began with a 5-2 run to trail 71-69 as Simon Feneberg made all 5 points. Even if it was the fourth quarter, it didn´t seem like Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg was getting weaker. Their energy was still as high as the first quarter. Crnjac continued to execute making a back door lay in and trey while Feneberg hit a 20 footer as Frankfurt led 76-71. After a Hadenfeld 15 footer and 78-71 Frankfurt lead, it seemed like maybe this was the time for the guests to throw in the towel, but no Feneberg continued to execute and was a real one man wrecking crew. He made 6 points in a row as Frankfurt led only 78-77. Feneberg actually had made 13 points in a row. Frankfurt continued to execute well getting a floater from Chukwuma and a trey from Crnjac for the 83-78 lead. Crnjac made 4 more free throws for the 87-80 lead. Feneberg continued to do his thing making free throws for the 87-82 lead. Baumer then got his 2 flagrant foul and had to depart the game. Albert and Crnjac then sealed the win with 5 free throws for the 91-82 lead. Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg now was deep in the hole deep and wasn´t going to break free. Feneberg made a lay in and that was his 20th consecutive points. Kuhn then made free throws as did Kordel and Chukwuma to end the game. “We had some luck. Important that they had 5 team fouls early. That made it easy for me to get easy baskets. They had 5 teams fouls and we could still play hard”, expressed Ivan Crnjac. “We were too nervous and not disciplined enough. We had it in our own hands, but didn´t have enough self-confidence”, warned Kheeryoung Rhee. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Ivan Crnjac with 29 points. Chuku Chukwuma added 13 points and Malick Kordel 12 points while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg was led b Simon Feneberg with 33 points while Julis Baumer added 20 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 53% form the field and 44% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 22 turnovers while Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg shot 47% from the field and 31% from outside and had 26 rebounds and 15 turnovers.
Ethan Chargois (205-F-1999, college: Oklahoma) is a 26 year old 205cm forward from Tulsa, Oklahoma playing his third professional season and first with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he played with Cheshire Phoenix (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 61.7%. He played his rookie season with Aurore de Vitre (France-NM1) and Taurinos de Aragua (Venezuela-SPB). He began his basketball career atz Union High School and then played at SMU (NCAA) from 2017-2021 playing a total of 108 games. He then added one more year and played the University of Oklahoma (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Ethan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your third pro season and first with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most of the experience?
It has been a great experience for me to have such a warm welcome in Brno and I think the biggest thing that I’ve enjoyed experiencing is the city itself and the people within it.
After a solid NCAA career, you really have had to grind overseas. You have made steps each season. How tough has the journey been? What kind of sacrifices have you had to make? I think the biggest sacrifice for any overseas player is being away from family and loved ones for a long period of time. Other than that I think the strain that each season puts on your body is something to note as well
You broke out in England last season and continue to play well this season in the NBL and ENBL. What do you credit to having been able to adjust so well so quickly in different countries?
I think that’s what separates good players from great player is how quickly you can adjust and adapt year to year whether it be play style or off the court adjustments as well.
Your really filling the stat sheet well. Is it fair to say that your versatility has made another step this season? Your averaging almost 4 assists in the ENBL and averaging double double stats in points and rebounds?
Yeah I think versatility is a key selling point with me. I can guard and play multiple positions. I think that is really valuable especially in today´s style of play.
If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? PJ Washington, Tobias Harris, Paulo Bancureo
Your three pointer is still a work in progress. How would you describe the development of your three at the moment? I started off kind of slow from three but starting to find my spots more and knock the shots down with confidence
Would you classify yourself as a raw defender? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I can Guard multiple positions and my on ball defense is solid. I think my off ball defense could definitely use improvement though.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?
Athleticism and flexibility are key for me right now the rest of the game is like riding a bike for me because I’ve been playing so long. It comes naturally.
What kind of a teammate is Jordan Brown and how do you compliment each other best? Do you have a special bond since your the only 2 Americans on the team? He is a very skilled inside finisher. We complement each other well because we are both good passers and yes we bonded because we are only two Americans.
Last season you played with Cheshire Phoenix (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 61.7%. How vital was this season for your development and confidence? You reached the final and were an allstar. That season was very important for me to get back on track. I am forever grateful to Ben Thomas and James Bryce for giving me the opportunity to showcase what I can do on the international level after a not so great start to my career.
You lost a tough final to the London Lions 88-85. What memories will you always have from that game and battling ex NBA player Sam Dekker?
All in all, it was a very good season, but we definitely wanted that last game in the championship versus Lions. That is one that I think that will haunt me until the day I die.
You played your rookie season with Aurore de Vitre (France-NM1) averaging 3.3ppg, 1.6rpg. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
No comment
How tough was this season in general. It was your first time overseas. What did you learn about yourself? No comment
You then went back to the States and played with the Enid Outlaws (TBL) averaging 18.1ppg, Reb-4 (12.0rpg), 3.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 63.3%. Did this experience give you that ambition to return overseas?
I wouldn’t say it gave me the ambition to go back overseas, but it definitely showed me that I was a lot better than the TBL and that I needed to be tested at a higher level.
You had an incredible 31/26 game. How tough is a league like this where everyone is playing for their stats and hoping to be discovered? It’s hard but at the end of the day it’s Basketball and I had a really great team and group of guys around me that were focused on winning and getting numbers and I know a lot of teams were not like that. It was all about the numbers.
You played at Southern Methodist University (NCAA) from 2017-2021. In your 6th NCAA game, you beat Arizona (NCAA) 66-60 and scored 12 points. How important was a game like that early in your NCAA career? You battled against some future NBA guys like Deandre Ayton and Alonso Trier?
It was special especially playing against Alonzo Trier because he’s also from Oklahoma and in some ways I looked up to him growing up and how he played how he scored things like that so when I got him in the battle of Atlantis and ended up winning, it was a very cool experience for me.
How vital was head coach Tim Jankovich in your early basketball development? How did he help you most with your game?
Coach Jankovich was very vital and I’m also forever grateful for him and giving me the opportunity as a freshman to really show what I can do and throwing me in the fire.
What will you remember from your battles in practice with Feron Hunt? Was he able to push you to the maximum? Yes, Mya and Feron are very good friends until this day. We always pushed each other and I think that’s what made us both successful in our professional careers..
You added a season with The University of Oklahoma (NCAA) averaging 4.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg. How tough was this season? You averaged only 12 minutes but reached the NIT Sweet 16. What positives could you take from it? I think that last grad year really taught me a valuable life lesson and that is goal where you’re appreciated not tolerated.
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that went to the NBA? Anthony Edwards
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Shake Milton, Jahmal McMurray, Jarrey Foster, EJ hearkless, Feron Hunt
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Lebron Kobe MJ AI
What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?
Bron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn ´t they have left it alone? I did not see that unfortunately
Jordan Brown (211-F-1999, college: Memphis) is a 25 year old 211cm center from Calirfornia palying his rookie season overseas with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). He began his basketball career at Woodcreek High School and also played AAU ball with Play Hard Play Smart and at Prolific Prep Academy. He played at 4 NCAA schools beginning with the University of Nevada averaging 3,0ppg and 2,1rpg. He then played a season at the University of Arizona (NCAA) averaging 9.4ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 59.8%. He then played 2 seasons at the University Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) saveraging 15.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 61.9% and 19.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 61.3%. He finished his NCAA career at the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.2rpg. he spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against Bamberg.
Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you? I’m in Brno, Czech Republic. Basketball is going well for me right now.
Your playing your first season with Basket Brno (Czech Republic-NBL). What kind of experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience? It has been a blessing, I’m grateful for the opportunity to play. I’ve enjoyed being able to play at a high level and bond with my team.
The team is holding it´s own and competing for the title in the NBL. What is special about the squad that you believe will help propel it to more success? I think the team is well connected both on and off the court, which Carrie’s over into the games.
How valuable has it been having Ethan Chargois on board. The guy has more pro experience and is a fellow big. How has helped you best with the transition? It’s been a blessing to have a fellow American who has experience already overseas. He helped me to adjust easier having someone who can also relate to being away from home.
You are putting up the same kind of dominant stats in the ENBL that you had in the NCAA in your last 2 seasons. What has been the secret to adjusting so well?
Keeping God at the front of everything, continuing to work and be hungry and competitive. Focusing on the goal and not the accomplishments along the way.
You began the season with KK Dubrava Furnir Zagreb (Croatia-Premijer Liga). Why was that stay so short? It was decided it was best for me and the team for me to play elsewhere.
What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? Being greeted in a different language by locals and not able to read the signs to buildings around the city.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 211cm big man. Are you more a 4 or 5 player? I can play both 4 and 5 You fill the stat sheet excellently. Is it fair to say that you’re a modern day big man? Yes I am a mix between a modern and traditional big man. Versatile and fundamental.
Your such a versatile player. What would you classify as your biggest strength? My fundamental, reading the game, and aggression
Your also an impact defender. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I am an active defender who enjoys the defensive end as much as the offensive end. I still want to be more consistent on stopping guards on the perimeter
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Continuing to improve on extending my range, as well as increasing my knowledge of the game
You played at 4 NCAA schools. How valuable was it getting to play at 4 schools instead of 1. Did that experience help you become so versatile?
It gave me a feel for different environments, cultures, and coaching styles. I think the experience helped me to mature as a player, as well as a person
played at the The University of Nevada (NCAA) from 2018-2019 averaging 3.0ppg, 2.1rpg. I think you experienced much that season. You reached the NCAA tournament and were teammates with the Martin brothers. What positives could you get from that time? I was able to see the leadership a team needs and the consistency of great players.
Your minutes stat line looked like an NBA stat line for some players. Some games you played 20 plus minutes while other games maybe 4-5 minutes. How tough was this fluctuation mentally? It was a challenge for me in my freshman year, but it also taught me to have to strive through adversity.
You then were at the University of Arizona (NCAA) from 2019-2021 during Covid and played one season averaging 9.4ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 59.8%. How important was this season in your development? You were efficient in 19 minutes of time. How did Sean Miller help develop your game better? He allowed me an opportunity to develop and grow into a more consistent role going into college while playing at a high level being in the pac 12. Blessed to receive 6th man of the year in the pac 12 conference.
You then moved again this time to the University Louisiana at Lafayette (NCAA) averaging 15.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 61.9% and 19.3ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 61.3%. Was this one of the best basketball decisions in your life going there? It was a great decision, and I think it helped me improve and expand my game.
You made a big jump in your game in your last season. How did your game grow under Bob Marlin? Coach Marlin allowed me to play my game. He put faith in my playing abilities, leadership, and what I could do to help the team win, and I’m glad it was able to work out well for everyone.
What was your fondest moment there? You always played great against Texas State and had great games against LCU and Arkansas State. What was your best game in those 2 years? My best memory was winning the Conference tournament, earning us a spot in the NCAA tournament.
You have played so many games in your career, but is the 58-55 loss to Tennessee State, your last game there one of those games you haven´t forgotten? It’s a game that I wish would’ve went the other way, but still enjoyed the experience of getting there with my team.
You then added on another season with the University of Memphis (NCAA) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.2rpg. How tough was it coming from Louisiana where you were Mr dominnat to having a smaller role at Memphis? What positives could you get out of the situation? It was a lot, but once again, it taught me to be strong in times of trials
What was like learning from Penna Hardaway? What kind of a coach was he and did he share any classic NBA stories with Shaq?
It was great seeing the passion of a former nba great. He talk edabout how Shaq would demand the ball in the paint, and how Penny made sure him and shaq had a great relationship.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Naeqwan Tomlin? We didn’t play or match up
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Kenny Lofton jr
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Enjoyed all of my teammates
Who is your goat?
Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Tre Mitchell (206-F-2000, college: Kentucky) is a 24 year old 206cm forward that was born in Bamberg and grew up in Woodstock, Conn. He is playing his rookie season in Germany with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig. He had the fortune to get early basketball experience at Elizabeth Forward high school and Woodstock Academy while also playing AAU ball. He then had the advantage of playing at 4 NCAA schools starting with the University of Massachusetts (NCAA) averaging 17.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 72.8% and 18.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 76.8%. He then played a season at The University of Texas (NCAA) averaging 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 80.0%, at the West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.9% and finished at the University of Kentucky (NCAA) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 74.4%. Last summer he played with the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA Summer League in Las Vegas) averaging 6.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 28.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Tre for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. What does it mean playing in the country that you were born in?
It’s a unique opportunity for me. A full circle moment to be born here and then return much later in life and learn so much about the German lifestyle.
You beat Bamberg at home and will play in Bamberg in March 2025. Is that date marked in your calendar?
Not circled but I’m looking forward to it. Right now I’m focusing one game at a time trying to make sure our team stays on the right track and winning games to the best of our ability.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with the Basketball lowen Braunschweig organization. What have you enjoyed most about the experience so far? It’s been very different from what I’ve been used to. There was a lot of adapting I had to do at first but it has taught me a lot about myself and the direction I want my career to go in. So far I’ve enjoyed experiencing a new way of life in Europe, and building relationships with my teammates and learning about the way they’ve experienced life much different to what I’m used to.
Did you talk or meet owner Dennis Schroeder?
I’ve met him and had a short conversation. He seems like a very genuine dude that just wants to see the success of his program and those involved in it.
Growing up how did you follow the career of Dennis Schroeder? Looking back how do you have him in your mind? Did he standout or was he just another of many great talented guards playing in the NBA? I wouldn’t say I followed him in particular but I was always aware of the presence he carried within the league. I always saw him as a tough nosed guard who can guard extremely well and has a dog mentality and competitive drive.
The Lowen is a very special team that gives Germans playing time and a very talented coach in Jesus Ramirez. How much potential does the team have and how far can it go? We have every piece we need to be successful in this league. We’ve competed with the top teams and we are getting better everyday. I think we will set our own limitations this season. I truly believe there isn’t a team we can’t beat in this league.
The team has so many talented German players. Is there one player that has stood out most for you?
Sanada Fru has stood out a lot to me, for being a young guy he’s been a great part of our team. Getting things done on both ends of the floor. He’s capable of playing 5 or 4, his versatility and ability to impact a game I think goes unnoticed sometimes but he really is a huge part of our success.
Let´s talk 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 say where my game currently is, it would be a player like Al Horford who can play 4 or 5 and do a little bit of everything.
You are a very agile and very elegant player. How much of a modern day big man are you?
Everyone has their own idea of a modern day big, I look at myself as a player who you can put into any situation and I’ll find a way to get the job done. Being versatile has always been something I’ve relied on heavily. You never know what situation you’ll be put into so why not be ready for anything.
You’re a very versatile player and can do so much. But besides being versatile, what would you say is your biggest strength on the floor? My basketball intelligence, the ability to read and react and get people to move into places I want them to in order to capitalize.
Your three pointer is still up and down. You shot 40% in Fiba Cup, but are under 30% in the BBL. What do you believe is missing to becoming a consistent shooter over 40%? Just extra work, I’ve been able to shoot my whole career it’s just a matter of getting it consistent everyday so I’ll continue to work and get to the breakthrough of the consistency I know I’m capable of.
Where would you describe your defensive game as being at right now? Are you still a bit raw? You averaged 1,0 block per game at UMass and Kentucky and are near that again as a rookie.
I think my defense is solid, but I still have improving to do. At times I’m capable of switching and guarding 1-5 but it’s a matter of getting that consistency to be able to do it every possession if needed. I still have room to improve laterally to reach my full potential. My basketball iq keeps me in the right position majority of the time, so it’s just a matter of understanding my opponent and using my size to my advantage.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Conditioning. I think is the biggest piece for me right now, just being able to impact every possession I’m out on the floor. With the right conditioning, it will bring about the consistency I need to continue to produce each game.
You had a very rare experience of playing at 5 NCAA schools. I can´t remember ever interviewing a guy that played at 5. I know I did guys who played at 4. How did this experience shape you as a player and man? Well, I played at 4, but each place brought about new experiences and new learning opportunities. It helped me understand coaches and players at different levels and be able to interpret how they understand and see the game. I was fortunate to play for two hall of fame coaches so learning from them has equipped me with another level of understanding the game and what it takes to be part of a great team.
How beneficial were your first 2 years playing for Matt McCall? You were thrown into cold water as a freshman and led the team in scoring. That doesn´t happen often for incoming players. They were extremely beneficial for my experience and confidence. McCall trusted me with the keys and allowed me to come in and make an immediate impact. He saw the value in me as a player and ultimately it worked out on the court.
Especially that first season you had so many great games, but in losing causes. What did you learn about your self in that freshman season? I learned my ability to compete at a high level with guys much older than me, but it also reinforced the idea that scoring isn’t everything, basketball is a team game and without the right game plan and execution by players, games are still won as a team.
In your third season you played at the University of Texas (NCAA) averaging 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 80.0%. You came the year after many guys reached the NBA. How did your game grow under Chris Beard? Playing for Beard helped me realize the game away from the basketball, putting yourself in the right position to score and impact games while moving without the ball, creating actions for your teammates and making defenses make multiple adjustments.
In the 2022-2023 season you made another move going to West Virginia University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 78.9%. You reached the big dance losing to Maryland while scoring 13 points. What memories do you have of that season?
It was one of my favorite seasons, I was surrounded by a lot of good people and great coaches that I really enjoyed playing for. I created a lot of relationships I still carry with me today and will for the rest of my life. The state of West Virginia showed a lot of love to us and I thoroughly enjoyed playing for them. Most of my memories involve me with my teammates and competing at the coliseum with the infectious energy of the crowd.
You had the great pleasure to play for legend Bob Huggins. How did your game grow under him?
Huggs instilled a lot of confidence in my game, after a rough season at Texas, he stuck his neck out for me and gave me another chance to show everyone what I was capable of. He taught me a lot on the defensive side of the ball, being in the right position, and really pushing the idea of team defense. When you know your team has your back you become a better defender. My skillset grew under him as well, I spent a lot of time developing my perimeter game and becoming even more versatile.
You then played a fifth season at the University of Kentucky (NCAA) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 74.4%. You reached the Big Dance again losing to Oakland 80-76 but producing a 14/13 game. Was this one of the tougher loses in your NCAA career? Definitely one of the more heartbreaking losses of my career, I knew it was my last chance to make a run, and I just didn’t get to. Especially when I felt like the team we lost to had no business beating us. I felt like I could’ve done more on the offensive end of that game, but obviously with younger guys it was harder to get everyone on the same page in order for us to win.
You were teammates with 3 very special guards with Antonio Reeves, Reed Sheppard and Rob Dilligham. So far none have had their NBA break though. What guy do you feel like will make it this season? I believe all 3 of them will succeed, they’re very skilled and talented players willing to play on both ends of the ball. They have everything they need to be successful, it’s just going to be a matter of time when they get their opportunity to show what they can do.
How did legend John Calipari give you that last boost and help groom and prepare you for a pro career?
Cal helped me grow as a leader, understanding what it takes to get everyone on the same page. Sometimes I had to be the mediator between player and coach and get messages across to both sides. He also helped me mentally, he challenges you everyday and tries to get you to break preparing you for the next stage of your career. One of the things I remember vividly was him saying to me “I love coaching you because no matter how hard I try, I can never get a reaction out of you”
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Justin Edwards? I’d say it would depend on what part of the court we got the ball on. He’s talented and capable of making some tough shots, but so am I.
You played NBA Summer League with the Oklahoma Thunder. How cool was that experience? How big is the NBA a focus for you? It was an okay experience I’d say, unfortunately I picked the only team to take extra guys to the summer league so I didn’t feel like I really got a chance to showcase my abilities. However it was cool seeing many of the guys I grew up playing with and against. Obviously the NBA would be my dream destination, but I have to keep working hard and everything else will fall into place exactly how it’s supposed to.
What was the coolest meeting or sighting you made in Las Vegas concerning an NBA legend? I don’t really think there was anyone particular who stood out to me, but it was cool playing some pick up games with the top guys from the Thunder’s main team.
Who were some of the best players that you battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Other than the guys on my Kentucky team last year, I would say guys like Obi Toppin and Chet.
Please name your 5 bets teammates of all-time?
In no particular order
Erik Stevenson
Emmit Mathews Jr
Reed Sheppard
Rob Dillingham
Noah Fernandes
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Lebron
KD
Paul George
Larry Bird
Who is your GOAT? Lebron
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I actually haven’t seen the sequel, the first one was good and I heard some bad reviews about the second so I never watched it.
Bodie Hume (198-G-1999, college: N.Colorado) is a 25 year old 198cm guard from Sterling, Colorado playing his third season and second in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn currently averaging9,1ppg, 3,6rpg and 1,3apg and is shooting 35% from outside.Last season he played with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) averaging 12.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 66.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 64.1%;and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 5.7ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 52.9%. He played his rookie season with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 68.3%. He began his basketball career at Sterling high school and then played at the University Of Northern Colorado (NCAA) from 2018-2022 playing a total of 122 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops,com about basketball.
Thanks Bodie for talking togermanhoops.com Congrats on signing with ambitious easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn. You lost both league games against Bonn with BG Goettingen last season, but the team as a whole played a lot better in the second game despite experiencing the loud Bonn crowd. What stood out in that special atmosphere?
I think that when we played Bonn the first time we were still learning our way to play as a team. Once we played Bonn the second time we were a lot better as a team and that was a big reason for the difference between the two. It was very cool to see how many fans were there to support the Baskets and cheer them on. Overall the Bonn atmosphere was awesome to see.
You have made further steps in your career going from Sweden to a top league in Europe and now to a better known team than Goettingen. Was Bonn the most logical step for you? I’ve been very blessed to be able to play at such a high level only a few years into professional basketball. Bonn is a great step in the right direction. Not only for my career, but I believe I can really grow and develop as a basketball player and pro in Bonn.
What do you appreciate most about the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization besides it´s professionalism and fan support? I agree that Bonn shows amazing professionalism in everything they do. The coaching staff has really helped me out well before I get there, as well as the front office has been great in answering any questions I have and has been awesome with working on getting everything ready for my family. The fans have also been very welcoming and the community around basketball there is special.
How did the talks go with head coach Roel Moors? What did you instantly like about his basketball philosophy? The talks with Coach Moors went great. He was very open with what he would like to accomplish with me this year and what he sees for this team. Our goals are the same for this upcoming season and I am excited to get over there and really start working with him and his whole staff. His basketball philosophy is exactly how I want to play. We play hard, we play fast, and we really want to defend this year!
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game bets to an NBA player who would best fit the description? I personally would like to play basketball like Paul George, very fluid and smooth but a master of his craft. However I know I am not there yet, so the best comparison I could give is maybe a Gordon Hayward currently, athletic shooter that can fits a system well.
You’re a really good shooter. What other areas in your offensive game sparkle the most in your game besides offensive rebounding? I think you pretty much summed it up currently. I think I bring a great shooting presence and always want to rebound to the best of my availability. I think I do bring a shot blocking presence to our defensive end and want to be able to switch on anyone this year.
Coach Moors respects your offensive rebounding a lot. You averaged 6,6 rebounds per game in your last 2 years in the NCAA. Was rebounding always a strength or was it very much improved at Northern Colorado? I think Northern Colorado has helped me become a better rebounder, and and I also think that as I have grown and matured I have learned more ways to get rebounds then just trying to outjump people.
You made big steps as a shooter in your first 2 pro seasons. Is your biggest goal this season to be a consistent three pointer shooter and hold that 40% range? Yeah I think for any shooter consistency is key and I hope that I can have that consistency. Shooting the ball well is more than just repetition, it’s about having unlimited confidence in yourself and always thinking that ball is going in the basket.
You’re a tall and athletic wing. How would you describe your defensive game now and where do you want to be as a defender in the next years? I would say that I can hold my own for the most part defensively. I am always trying to get better at defending shifty guards as well as forwards that are bigger than me. I want to be able to help my team defend in any way possible. I just try my best out there.
You’re a really good shooter, but are still finding your mark at the free throw line. Is free throw shooting possibly a mental issue in your case more than anything else.
As I said earlier shooting isn’t all just repetition you have to be very confident in your ability to shoot free throws and I have actually been working on that a lot this summer with competitive free throws so that I can be more consistent in that as well.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game as a professional?
I’m trying to work on my ability to make reads off the ball and find the open guy more. As I grow I really would like to see the game better, whether it is making the right pass or looking to attack the rim instead of shoot. I also am working on developing a pull up 2 game because I have really struggled with that in the past.
Last season you played with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) averaging 12.2ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 66.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 64.1%; and in FIBA Europe Cup averaged 5.7ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 52.9%. You played a very solid BBL season, but struggled in the Fiba Europe Cup. What did you learn about yourself last season as a player making this experience? I think that I had a bad approach to the Europe Cup and overall realized that we as a team need to win and play well in all basketball games. So this year I’d like to focus on one game at a time and really work hard between each game.
You had some real memorable games last season twice against Heidelberg and once against Chemnitz. What game did you enjoy most? I think that we had a lot of exciting games this year. Heidelberg, Crailsheim, Chemnitz all were awesome games for me. I think that all the games against Vechta were extremely fun because we competed very hard against them. But I think my favorite game was the Braunschweig game in Göttingen. With it being a derby and us pulling out a win was very special.
You played your rookie season with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 68.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a pro player overseas where you knew that you were far away from home? Yeah I think for any American moving over to play basketball in Europe can be difficult. While at Boras I didn´t feel as though I struggled too much with homesickness because I had my wife there with me and was accepted quickly by my teammates. Those guys are some of my really good friends. They were a great team for me to start my career just because of all the things I learned on and off the court.
What was it like being teammates with Christopher McKnight? Was he like a mentor for you? Being teammates with Chris was awesome. He started his career in Boras the same as me so I would always pick his ear on how his career path went and what he would change. On the court he taught me how to use my athleticism and body against defenders in order to finish better. And in return I taught him how to finally shoot the ball. (Just joking he could shoot)
You got your first playoff experience winning 2 series and then losing a tough 6 game series to Norrkoping. What will you always remember most from that series? I’ll remember a lot of things about that series. They handed us our only home losses of the season in the finals. You can always look back and wish you had played better so that what I do most often.
You played at the University of Northern Colorado from 2018-2022. You had so many great games there. What was your most memorable moment on the court in the NCAA? I think my most memorable moment was giving the best team in the nation trouble. We got to play Arizona my senior year and we were able to be in a very close game until late in the second half. Now that was a fun game.
In your senior year your teammate Daulton Knecht averaged 8,9ppg and in the next season 21,0ppg and was drafted by the Lakers. Did you already see that future greatness with him when you were there? I think a lot of people knew Dalton was a special talent with his build and athleticism. He has always been a very good basketball player and has a great ability at getting to his spots. I’m really happy he got drafted and am excited to watch how well he does in the NBA.
How vital was it playing for 2 coaches at Northern Colorado from Jeff Linder and Steve Smiley? How did they groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Both coach Linder and coach Smiley helped me tremendously throughout my time at UNCO. They taught me so much offensively and defensively I am very thankful for them. They had always ran a European style of offense so it was relatively easy for me to make the jump.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dalton Knecht? I don’t think Dalton and I ever played 1-1 but we would go at each other constantly in practice. I’d say overall we were pretty level. I haven’t been around him in a while so I{ guess we won’t know really who would win today.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?
I’ve been able to play against so many great players that I can’t just name one. All those guys that have made it to the league have been successful.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?
That’s a really tough question because I have had some great teammates. I’ll have to say all my old teammates in Sweden are up there, but they count as one. I have become good friends with Osaro Rich so I’ll put him in there. I also got Zach Ensminger, Grant Antecivich, Fedor Zugic, and now my new teammates. There are just too many to give only five.
What is your personal NBA mount rushmore of past or present heads? Give me Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and give me Carmelo Anthony.
Who is your GOAT and why?
Michael Jordan is my GOAT, I just think what he was able to do on the court against the teams and players he played against was something very special and puts him over the top.
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I did see the sequel and I agree the first one was unmatched compared to the second one
Jesus Ramirez is a Spanish coach currently in his 4th season as head coach of the easyCredit BBL team Basketball Lowen Branschweig. He also has head coaching experience with Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) and King Szczecin (Poland-EBL). He was also an assistant coach for 6 years with ratiopharm Ulm and a season with RETAbet Bilbao Basket (ACB), He spoke to germanhoops.com after a 107-86 win over BG Goettingen.
Congrats on the 107-86 road win in Goettingen. How vital was this win stepping up again and winning again after the loss against Bonn? More than the win, was important to meet with the point of right energy that we had lost the days before.
It was the third road win in a row. How difficult is it always to play a last placed team? Every BBL game on the road is extremely difficult, and Goettingen being a derby is even more difficult, especially because of factors that might be out of your control like emotions and feelings
Braunschweig could have won by a lot more, but gave up 31 points in the last quarter. Were the first 30 minutes the kind of standard that you like in terms of how the team played?
As I said before playing with the right energy and the right mindset is key for us, and yes, in many moments of the game we showed that offensively the team was clicking.
7 Lowen scored in double figures. Was that some of the best unselfishness that you saw as a team this season Not in a consistent bases but YES, it’s absolutely something that we want and are working for because it is part of our identity: play as a team, share the ball and put as many players as possible in the right position.
Braunschweig led 30-24 after The first quarter. BG Goettingen was scoring too much. What was giving the Lowen the most problems on defense that allowed them to score 24 points. First of all Goettingen is a well-coached team. They know their strengths and play well there. For another hand we started soft in on- and off-ball defense, receiving points from the 1×1 that we expected to happen and also from off-ball cuts and backdoors.
The Lowen allowed only 15 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the team make? We increased our tension and the level of focus making Goettingen play longer and under way more difficult circumstances.
In the third quarter there was no let up as the Lowen scored 31 points again and allowed only 16 points. Sanada Fru gave great support and ended with 15 points. He has been playing consistently as of late. How have you seen his development? Sananda didn´t stop to improve since the first time I have met him 4 years ago. He is a smart kid who understands what the game requires to be played at the highest level. I ´m sure he will continue his development because he is still far of his best version.
In the fourth quarter the Lowen let up as BG Goettingen exploded for 31 points. Was this the classic example of a team leading by so much that they felt to comfortable? I don´t know, I only can tell you that it’s not what we want. We stopped to do the things in the right way and it was somehow sad to see.
Despite the win does the last quarter bother you as a coach? The team not finishing strong? Yes, it absolutely bothers me. Independent of the score I want my team to play the right way, I will tell you the same if we lost by 15 points and we stopped to play.
Was the scoring and sharing the ball the biggest strength of the team?
Those were 2 important points but I was happy also with the defense for 30 minutes, which gave us the opportunity to run and be in the open court.
Barra Njie continues to have a great season averaging 11/3/3. If this continues, he could be a candidate for most improved player. What has been key in his development for being able to continue to grow as a BBL player?
To me the key is the time. Every player needs time to adapt, and understand a new league. I think for Barra it was very important. I think for Barra this process was very important last season. And he never stopped to work and to believe. I’m really happy to see him playing well, but I’m even more happy when I see him smiling, it’s contagious and has a big positive impact in the team.
I have covered German Benjamin Schroeder since his U-16 years. Is he a guy that will continue to get minutes and make the gradual rise in the next year? Yes, Benny is a kid with a lot of talent who wanted to come to Braunschweig and came with the right mentality. I´m very happy with what I see and I ´m very positive with his development and future.
The team has made a big rise this season. What has been the secret to the success? Honestly, I don’t see any success. I see a positive progress of the team due to the hard work, good persons and very talented basketball players and staff.
The playoffs look very realistic this season. What does the team have to do better in the next months to achieve that goal? Don’t stop to progress.
You’re in your fourth season as a head coach. How vital were your 6 years in Ulm? How did that time prepare you best to become a head coach?
Yes, It was, the same like my times in Barcelona coaching all basketball categories chronologically and the same like my first 2 experiences as a HC with ALBA (Hungary) and Szczecin (Poland). That time prepared me in many ways but mainly in understanding a professional basketball club and team better from inside. Getting to know and study the BBL really deep and working with Thorsten Leibenath made me a better professional in many aspects of my job.
What do you enjoy most about being a head coach in Germany? You are carrying that tradition that Aito once had as a seldom Spanish coach. Aito is for me and many Spanish coaches a mentor, a mirror and an example how to do things. I follow and study him and coaches that had worked with him like Carles Duran all my career. But my journey in the BBL started earlier with my time in Ulm, than his time in ALBA and my time continued in Braunschweig. First of all, I enjoy my club, my organization and OUR project. Then I like the BBL because it is so competitive. There is so much talent out there that makes you feel that the preparation of your team must be excellent every single week.
Please name your 5 greatest Spanish players of all-time? Ricky Rubio, Navarro, Llull, Pau Gasol and Marc Gasol.
Fischer (208-PF-1999) is a 25 year old 208cm center playing his fourth season with the TSV Oberaching Tropics. He began his career with IBAM and also played with Regionalliga team MTSV Friendsfactory Schwabing. He then played 2 seasons with Wurzburg playing 3 easyCredit BBL games and also with the farm team averaging 7/3 and 9/4. He then played a season with the Nurnberg Falcons averaging 2/2. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 89-85 win over the RheinStars Cologne.
Congrats on the big 89-85 win at home against top team RheinStars. How big was this win? It was a big win for us. The Rheinstars are one of the top teams in the Pro B. Being able to annoy them and win was a huge success for us.
You got revenge after losing 90-86 in Cologne less than a month ago. How big was the revenge factor for the team? We were very annoyed with our loss in Cologne. We didn´t play well the last few minutes before half-time. They got out on a big lead. We had to play catch up basketball the whole second half. We fought hard and made it close, but lost. We shouldn´t have let it come to that.
Oberaching must still have been very confident going in. You hit 14 three´s and had 15 offensive rebounds in the loss in Cologne.
We feel very confident being an underdog. We have nothing to lose and like to play at home with the support of our fans. They do a great job pushing us.
What was the game plan going? What does one have to do to win besides trying to control the dynamic duo of Hennen and Rohwer? They are their key players. Hennen is a great point guard who carries them and leads them. Rohwer is big and a good rebounder. We wanted to control the rebounds and play together. We did a good job not getting lost with their pressure.
Oberaching had a great start leading 11-1, but then let up a bit to come back and trail only 19-18. Were you a bit surprised how well you started as a team?
I wasn´t surprised. Everything began perfect for us. Philipp Bode began strong making a few buckets. Getting a start like that against a top team is always a help, but they did fight back.
17 year old young German Davi Remagen began hot and finished with a Pro B personal high 26 points. How big was his 40 plus points in the NBBL last weekend for his self confidence? Having self confidence is always vital for young players. Having a strong NBBL game will help and the coaches notice. He went into the game on a high after his big NBBL game and just played and didn´t think much.
How talented is Davi Remagen? Where do you see his journey going to? That’s not easy to predict. He is a very good player. We will see.
The RheinStars had the slim 43-40 advantage at halftime. Ruppert Hennen gave them some good energy as did Jannis Von Seckendorf. How annoying is it playing against a player like Seckendorf?
It is never easy when he is on the court. He makes the game fast and aggressive.
In the third quarter the guests went on a run, but Oberaching punched back with a run to lead 62-60 after 3 quarters. How vital are the fighting qualities of the team and how have they grown this season? We are a team that have played together for years and are friends off the court. That chemistry shows on the court. We are always helping each other out on the court and fight for each other. We never worry about our stats, but play to win. The will to win is big for us.
Omari Knox and Janosch Kogler made big baskets. Where would the team be without these 2 ultimate warriors?
They have been the key players for us for years. They are key for helping the young players as well. We give them the ball when we need to win in close games. They have so much experience.
What did head coach Mario Matic tell the team to do going into the fourth quarter? He told us that we are in the game. He told us that he wanted us to fight until the end. We had a big chance to win. It wasn´t like in Cologne where we had to come back.
Did the quick Oberaching start in the fourth quarter and three´s by Schuler, Knox and Kogler seal the win? They never got over the hump? We didn´t think about it. That quick start gave us security. We knew that we had to react quickly, because they are a good team.
What was the biggest strength of the TSV Tropics Oberaching on this afternoon?
I think that our team play was our biggest strength. We did a good job playing inside out basketball. We defended well and didn´t get hurt by their pressure.
You had a solid 8/5 game in 26 minutes. Is that a performance you can live with?
To be honest, I´m most happy when we win. I personally was annoyed with 2 shots that I missed that I usually make. That annoys me more than anything.
Oberaching next battles Rhondorf. You lost a shootout at home where 223 points were scored. How bitter was that loss? That was a very bitter loss. We gave up way too many points in that game. We defended very well against the RheinStars and want to build on that performance and take that energy to Rhondorf.
Will guarding the three point line be a key to win? They made 17 three´s in that game. Yes that will be important. We have to be aggressive on the three point line, but also not forget to defend in the zone.
How excited will you be to play? You missed the first game? Do you see yourself having a big game? I may get more touches against them. I may see more double teams. I´m looking forward to the game.
Ronald Jackson Jr. (203-F-1997, college: NC A&T, agency: BIG) is a 27 year old 203cm forward from Florida playing his 5th professional season and first with Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-OBL). Last season he suited up with : Kometa Kaposvari KK (Hungary-A Division) averaging 11.2ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 77.4%. In the 2022-2023 season he played with Reale Mutua Basket Torino (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 9.9ppg, 6.2rpg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 84.8%. In the 2021-2022 season he balled with Rogaska Crystal (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM) averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-3 (9.3rpg), 1.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 73.2%; and in the Adriatic League 2) averaged 12.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.7spg, Blocks-1 (1.1bpg), FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 83.3%. He played his rookie season with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) and Instituto Atletico Central Cordoba (Argentina-La Liga) averaging 8.0ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 64.9%. He began his basketball career at Flemng Island high school and then played 2 seasons at Hillsborough Community College (JUCO) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 52.6%, FT: 64.7% and 13.0ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 83.1%. He then played 2 more seasons at North Carolina A&T State University (NCAA) averaging 7.5ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 73.8% and.0ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 76.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg.
Thanks Ronald for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your fifth pro season and have played for 7 organizations. Do you feel like a basketball globetrotter?
Yes I do actually. I’ve played basketball in about 3 different continents and experienced things I never imagined.
Your playing your first season with Anwil Wloclawek (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been playing for this club? The experience has been a good one thus far. Business is taken care of well and we are a strong team with good depth.
You will be facing German team Ludwigsburg soon. You already played them in Germany and lost 86-81. What is your overall impression of German basketball and have you had friends ball there? Though I had only a short stint in Germany, I have experienced the strength of the German league. A strong competitive and organized league with good talent. I made very good friends in Germany that I still communicate with to this day.
You have always been close to winning titles a pro but still seeking that first one. This season could be that golden opportunity as your in first place in the polish league. How big is your desire to win that first chip?
Winning a championship would be an amazing accomplishment. I’ve come close and I’ve got to see what it takes to be the last team standing. It is quite a desire of mine considering I’ve never won any type of team championship since I began playing basketball. Always very close.
As a pro you have averaged more than 19 minutes per season, but this season it´s at 10 minutes in the Polish league. Do you have a different kind of role than usual? Considering my situation this year and joining the team late being a replacement for an injured player, I was aware of my role being historically different considering the depth this team has and the success prior to me coming. However I’m always ready to compete.
The team is really stacked with a lot of bigs like Funderburk and Petrasek. How vital are the daily battles with them and others for your game? The competitive nature must be huge. I’m a competitor at heart and have always been an underdog since I got cut from making the high school team at 16. So battling against them week in and week out along with my other teammates is a nice challenge, as they are all good players. Iron sharpens Iron so it’s only making us better.
Let´s talk a little about your career. You have seen so much, lived in many cultures and seen many different brands of basketball. How do you explain your ability to really have been able to adjust anywhere and simply produce? I think my game is applicable to any style and any league of basketball. A guy who can do a little bit of everything, play and guard multiple positions, play defense, rebound and can make the right plays.
You played last season with Kometa Kaposvari KK (Hungary-A Division) averaging 11.2ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 77.4%. What kind of an experience was that for you and what was your fondest moment there? My experience last year was an interesting one. One where I really had to learn to just control what I can control and be ready no matter what adjustments or random changes may occur. My fondest memory would probably be the games we won when the odds were against us.
You played the 2022-2023 season with Reale Mutua Basket Torino (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 9.9ppg, 6.2rpg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 84.8%. Many say this league belongs to the best second divisions overseas. Was it the best league that you have played in?
A2 was certainly a really good league to play in and it was competitive on both divisions. It’s definitely one of the better leagues I played in for sure.
How tough was it losing to Pistoia in the final? You had played 2 very exciting series against Milan and Treviglio. Was that some of the most exciting basketball that you have encountered in your life? It was tough losing to Pistoia. Sometimes I wonder how things would’ve went if we won. But congrats to them they were a good team. The environment in the playoffs was very special.
You played the 2021-2022 season for Rogaska Crystal (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM) averaging 13.2ppg, Reb-3 (9.3rpg), 1.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 73.2%; and in the Adriatic League 2) averaged 12.8ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.7spg, Blocks-1 (1.1bpg), FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 83.3%. Was that one of your best seasons as a pro?
This was one of my better seasons. I had a heavier role on this team and my coach Damjan Novakovic did well with helping me adjust to the European style of basketball.
What will you always remember from the semi-finals against top team Cedevita? They had some big time players and Yogi Ferrell. Yes they had some big time players and a lot of depth. The city of Rogaska was proud of our efforts but Cedevita defeated us.
You split your rookie season with BG Goettingen (Germany-BBL) and Instituto Atletico Central Cordoba (Argentina-La Liga) averaging 8.0ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 64.9%; and in the BCL Americas averaged 9.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 58.8%. 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 being cut! That introduced me to another side of basketball. It made me realize how much a fit and situation really matters to a team. It was during Covid as well so to go to two different continents at that time was unique.
What was it like living and playing in Argentina? You lived in a nice city Cordoba. What did you enjoy most about their culture? I didn’t get to experience much because we were in a bubble during covid. But the weather and scenery was refreshing. Sometimes it reminded me of home and the meals were nice.
You had some well known names as teammates and coach. You played for Sebastian Ginoboli who is the brother of legend Manu and with Juan Brussino, the brother of Nicholas who played in the NBA. Did Sebastian tell any inspirational Manu stories? No Sebastian didn’t really talk to much. I was there for a couple weeks and then we had a new coach.
You played at Hillsborough Community College (JUCO) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.6rpg, FGP: 52.6%, FT: 64.7% and 13.0ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 83.1%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a grind but one that was very worthwhile. How was it for you?
JUCO for sure is a grind. I did 3 years there (walk-on redshirt freshman) and made it do the division 1 level. It was very difficult for me mourning the loss of my mother, trying out for the team for a month, tough workouts, balancing school and being away from home. It builds character for sure.
You made a massive jump in your game in your second season. How vital was head coach Derrick Worrels for your development? How did he help you grow best? Huge shoutout to Coach Worrels for giving me an opportunity. He was hard on me and he instilled disciplines and lessons in me that have gotten me to this point in my career.
You then played 2 seasons at North Carolina A&T State University (NCAA) averaging 7.5ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 73.8% and 15.0ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 76.5%. Again you made a big jump in your game in your second season. How did your game grow there?
The grind grew my game. I knew I wanted to play pro ball and I knew there were a lot of people ahead of me so I just worked on my craft on and off the court. I had good coaches and good teammates and especially my point guard Kameron Langley who’s currently on the coaching staff at Clemson.
How did head coach Jay Joyner groom and prepare you best for a professional career? Coach Joyner taught life lessons that can be used on and off the court.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Devin Haygood? I don’t remember playing Dev too much in 1v1 but we definitely had great battles playing king of the hill.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Pg- Kameron Langley
Sg- Jordan Stevens
SF- Aubrey Dawkins
Center – Tai Odiase
Jorge Gutierrez
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
Lebron Mj Kobe Shaq
What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?
I’ll take Lebron over Jordan. He can practically do everything and guard every position, and what he’s done, we’ve never seen anything like it before. But I like to think Lebron is the greatest basketball player of all time, but Jordan is the greatest to play the game if that makes sense.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Didn’t see it.
There were times in the history of the Frankfurt-Alba Berlin games over the past 20 years where both were playoff teams whenever they battled each other. They even had exciting playoff series where Frankfurt always gave Germanys capital city team a good run for the money. Then there were times also were Alba Berlin was still a top team and Frankfurt wasn´t a playoff team anymore where the games weren´t always exciting. But now there is a scenario where both are struggling teams, a concept that has never been seen before. The Frankfurt Skyliners are a team that has arrived in 2025 as a team that is fighting to stay in the league. Luckily for them, there is an even worse team then them with BG Goettingen who only have 1 win. In other years Frankfurt would currently be the door mat of the league. Alba Berlin hasn´t had a great year coming in in 13th place with only 2 wins more than Frankfurt. Their abundance in losing is something difficult to digest. They are 3/16 in Euroleague play and the only positive thing for them going into this game was that they had upset FC Bayern Munich last weekend. Alba Berlin was still a scoring club, but defensively were in another galaxy. If Frankfurt had some of their walking wounded back, then this could be a game where they could compete. Frankfurt had their chances in an overall poor offensive performance and when a Trey Calvin is missing and other walking bucket Malik Parsons gets held to 2 points and 1/8 shooting and 5 turnovers, you will have problems winning. Plus coughing up the ball 26 times didn´t help their cause either. “We missed many shots. You can´t have 26 turnovers against a team like Alba Berlin. They did a good job converting on our turnovers and Matt Thomas (195-SG-1994, college: Iowa St.) shot lights out”, stressed New Jersey native Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin didn´t have a great offensive game, but really sparkled on defense for 40 minutes. “We defended very well. Frankfurt was annoyed with our good 1-1 defense. Being able to hold Parsons to 2 points was a big step for us. We didn´t have a good offensive game. If we would have had a better offensive game, then we would of won a lot easier”, stressed Alba Berlin assistant coach Thomas Paech.
Yanni Wezell with the lay in
5000 basketball fans came out on a cold Sunday evening and rapidly saw a lightening start of Alba Berlin as they slapped around Frankfurt taking the quick 15-2 advantage. Alba Berlin had the correct body language and intensity while Frankfurt seemed passive and like they just got out of bed. Alba Berlin did a great job in the paint area dominating Frankfurt. Ex NBA player Matt Thomas scored with a lay in and connected with 3 free throws while NBA draft pick Gabriel Procida of Italy was aggressive and scored twice while German Tim Schneider had 2 dunks. Frankfurt couldn´t match Alba Berlin´s physicality and on offense had problems getting into their sets. Frankfurt finally escaped their funk going on a 12-6 run to trail 21-14. Einaras Tubutis hit 2 three pointers while ex Boston College forward Patrick Heckman and Alaska native Kamaka Hepa scored inside. Frankfurt was more aggressive and played good inside out ball. However Frankfurt couldn´t keep that intensity to the end as Alba Berlin finished with a 5-0 run to lead 26-14 after 10 minutes. Alba Berlin got production from ex LIU Brooklyn (NCAA) player Martin Hermannsson with free throws and a lay in and free throws by Australian center Yanni Wetzell. “We showed our presence on defense right away and had little mistakes”, stated Thoams Paech. “We had a bad start. I was trying to find my feel for the game. I picked up my game then and the team fed off me”, stressed Jordan Theodre. Alba Berlin shot 56% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 36% from the field and 29% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 3 turnovers.
Kamaka Hepa at the FT line
In the second quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners rebounded from their poor first quarter and began with a 11-3 run to trail 29-25. In the run Frankfurt began to defend more aggressively while Jordan Theodore and Booker Coplin carried the team. They did all the scoring while the team was getting no production from walking bucket Malik Parsons. “He is young. He had some really great games for us. Other teams defenses are starting to key in on him. He has to find ways around that”, warned Jordan Theodore. But even if Alba Berlin isn´t having a great BBL season, they still have enough offensive talent to get away fast. They went on a lightening 7-0 run as Matt Thomas had 5 points and Procida a pretty reverse alley-oop dunk with the nifty dime from Thomas. “I´m starting to find my rhythm again after my surgery. My team did a great job finding me in the right spots”, stated Matt Thomas. Frankfurt punched back with a swift 5-0 run as Theodore made a lay in and Tubutis another trey to trail 36-30. Thomas nailed another trey and 2022 NBBL champion Elias Rapique made a lay in while Frankfurt countered with another Theodore lay in and massive dunk from 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke, but Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump trailing 41-36. “We let them get too much in the zone and allowed them to create and make plays”, said Thomas Paech. “I played more pick and roll and kept the ball in my hands and found guys. We rebounded a lot better”, added Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin shot 48% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Jordan Theodore with the floater
In the third quarter both teams struggled offensively and Frankfurt cut it down to 3 points, but once again couldn´t get over the hump and missed golden opportunities. Canadian David Muenkat got Frankfurt on the board first with a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 41-38, but couldn´t get stops as Alba Berlin reacted with a 5-0 run to lead 46-38. Matt Thomas stroked home another three pointer and Hermannsson hit a 20 footer. Frankfurt didn´t give up and just continued fighting and chipping away at the guests lead as Tubutis made a lay in and Hepa a clutch trey to get close again trailing 46-43. Tubutis not only had his shooting stroke on, but he was on fire on defense as he kept making big blocks and steals and had 5 blocks and 3 steals after 40 minutes. “My defense stood out, but that’s how I play. I don´t think they expected that from me. I just did my job”, said Einaras Tubutis. Frankfurt just couldn´t get over the hump as Alba Berlin always found a way to hurt Frankfurt with 1-1 play. Procida made a lay and Wetzell a tip in dunk for the 56-48 advantage. Parsons continued to have the goose egg and was 0/5 and Alba Berlin led 57-48 after 30 minutes. “Our 1-1 defense stopped them. We kept Parsons and Theodore under control”, said Thomas Paech. “We had so many opportunities and missed open shots”, added Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin shot 41% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 40% from the field and 25% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 19 turnovers.
Matt Thomas at the FT line
In the fourth quarter Alba Berlin did a super job managing the lead and never let Frankfurt get closer than 8 points. Rapique and Muenkat traded baskets to begin, but Alba Berlin still led 59-51. After Schneider made a catch and pop shot, Malik Parsons finally made his first field goal at the 6,13 minute mark, but Frankfurt still trailed 61-53. This could have been a golden moment for Parsons to keep producing, but it just wasn´t to be. It was a just one of those days where nothing worked for him. Thomas then hit another clutch trey as did Schneider as Alba Berlin extended their lead to 68-56. Time was winding down as Frankfurt realized that they weren´t going to win this game. Wetzell made a floater down the stretch and Schneider a lay in while Coplin made a 15 footer and Muenkat a lay in, but Frankfurt trailed 72-60. Hermannsson then put an exclamation point on the victory with Alba Berlin´s 7th three pointer of the game and the win. “We stuck to our game plan tonight. We played great 1-1 defense, but also great team defense forcing them to 26 turnovers. Matt Thomas was the only good offensive player for us. He made the difference. He isn´t only important as a shooter, but also as a leader”, warned Thomas Paech. “It was my fault. I have to play better. I have to score more and get more assists”, warned Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin was led by Matt Thomas with 28 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Einaras Tubutis with 14 points while Jordan Theodore had 13 points and 8 assists. Alba Berlin shot 39% from the field and 23% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 20% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 26 turnovers.
German Hoops 