After a good start by Germany with a victory over Italy into the 2026 U-20 Euro in Slovenia, they returned back 24 hours later and had to put up with the feisty Turkish squad, but in the end came up a bit short losing 83-76. Germany had to play catch up basketball the whole game and even trailed by as much as 19 points in the third quarter. However they didn´t wilt like a flower or sink their heads in the sand like a terrified animal, but instead showed real character, grit and toughness staging a massive comeback in the fourth quarter. They were a possession and three pointer away from forcing overtime, but couldn´t pull out the miracle. A day after dominating Italy on the boards, Germany had less luck on the rebound as they were totally dominated on the glass. Germany couldn´t compensate from the 21 Turkish turnovers as Germany only coughed it up 11 times. Germany´s top scorers against Italy Daniel Biel and Nicolas Kodjoe only combined for 4 points while the latter put up the dreaded goose egg. The team was led by the duo of Davi Remagen and Bruno Loll who carried the load scoring 24 points a piece while Turkey was led by Salih Altuntas (208-F-2006) with 19 points while Kaan Onat supplied 17 points. Turkey scored the first points of the Game by Altuntas and from then on Germany was always trying to punch back. Germany was led by Bruno Loll (Rostock) early who added 7 points showing his inside out game with 2 lay in´s and a trey while Ludwigsburg´s Julis Baumer was his aggressive self like an energizer bunny scoring 4 points. Turkey was playing good team basketball and finding their spots well while many guys produced points. Omer Kutluay of Real Madrid added a trey while Kaan Onat was aggressive scoring inside twice as Turkey led 22-17 after 10 minutes.
In the second quarter Turkey totally stunned Germany going on a big run to start and then had total control of the game and led 42-34 at the break. Turkey didn´t waste anytime taking their momentum from the first quarter and stepping it up an extra notch by letting it rain three´s. Turkey exploded on a 9-0 run to lead 31-17. Turkey got three´s from Ege Akay from Darussafaka Lassa Istanbul (TBL), Onat and Kutluay. However Germany didn´t completely fall apart, but were carried by their two top scorers of the game Davi Remagen and Bruno Loll. Loll showed his leadership qualities stepping up and producing 7 points. His inside out game continued to be present. The always quick Remagen was always a threat with his drive as he added 6 points. 4 points were on free throws while the other was a lay in on the drive. Turkey kept the comfortable lead while still executing well on offense and keeping a strong hold on the boards. Turkey also remained very aggressive always finding easy ways to attack and get easy baskets while the German 1-1 defense wasn´t on par. Lars Lenke from the Nurnberg Falcons who had a potent 2025-2026 NBBL season averaging 22.6ppg), 5.6rpg, 2.6apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 65.9%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 73.2% closed out the second quarter with a put back after an offensive rebound.
In the third quarter Turkey continued to control the game and even led by as much as 19 points. But like in the second quarter, Germany was able to face adversary and still fight back and stay in the game somewhat as they trailed 63-50 after 30 minutes. Turkey blasted off out of the break going on a 18-7 run to lead 60-41. Turkey continued to play smart and used their speed attacking the rim scoring 3 lay in´s to start the run with Onat dropping two of them while they also displayed their range again from the parking lot getting three´s from Yavuz Selim Kara from Cedi Osman Basketbol Spor Kulubu Istanbul (TBL) while Kutluay also scored again from outside. Germany however once again showed their comeback abilities again closing out the third quarter on a 9-3 run. Remagen as usual led his team with 5 points getting to the hole with ease while Daniel Biel scored his first field goal of the contest with a thunderous dunk on transition. Germany also got vital support form the bench with NBBL champion Noah Isichei with a bucket inside. Germany continued to show their valuable togetherness and weren´t out of the game with 10 minutes to play.
In the fourth quarter the comeback attempt of Germany continued as they kept taking it one possession at a time and slowly seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Germany had more fortune with their three pointer as Bruno Loll continued to be a type of one man wrecking crew dropping two three´s while Remagen took a short break with his drive and also stepped outside for 2 three pointers as Germany trailed 68-62 with 5,34 to play. Germany had momentum now and didn´t stop in their comeback. Ex Orange Academy guard Jordan Muller also gave vital support from the bench with 2 lay in´s as Germany did a good job subbing in quick guard after quick guard who were able to produce in tough situations as Turkey´s lead got smaller and smaller at 71-66 with 3,38 to play. Turkey would execute here and there, but not as well as earlier as Germany continued to get support from their bench as Alba Berlin forward Amon Dorries scored as did Biel again who had a quiet afternoon as Germany trailed 75-72 with 2,01 to play. Germany´s aggressiveness was spot on on defense forcing Onat to a turnover which led to Davi Remagen completing the 3 point play to dead lock the game at 75-75 with 1,38 to play. After a Kutluay lay in, Baumer then made one of two free throws to trail 77-76. Kutluay then hit 2 free throws for the 79-76 lead with 19 seconds to play. Baumer then missed a trey to force overtime and Onat closed out the game with 4 free throws as Germany´s big come back effort fell a little short. Turkey shot 46% from the field and 30% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 21 turnovers while Germany shot 39% from the field and 29% from outside and had 28 rebounds and 11 turnovers. Germany next face France on Monday.
Germany needed no rude awakenings in Slovenia as the U-20 team came prepared for their first game at the 2026 Euro against Italy. After a tight first quarter, Germany then broke open the game in the second quarter to maintain a comfortable 49-33 lead at the break. In the second half, they maintained the lead well leading by more than 20 points to outscore Italy 36-33 in the second half to win the game. Germany had 3 guys score in double figures led by Jena forward Daniel Biel (195-F-2007) with a double double 17/10r, Nicolas Kodjoe added 16 points and Davi Remagen 13 points. Germany had a rapid start into the game taking the early 10-2 lead. Germany didn´t waste anytime letting it fly from the parking lot as Ludwigsburg guard Julis Baumer, FC Bayern Munich forward Nicolas Kodjoe and Rostock big man Bruno Loll all connected from downtown. Germany defended aggressively and secured the defensive rebound well. However Italy woke up getting their offense going sparked by Stefano Trucchetti from Carpegna Prosciutto Basket Pesaro (Serie A2) sparking a 11-0 run and 8 points including 2 three´s. It would be a back and forth until the first quarter buzzer sounded with a few lead changes. Germany was very aggressive getting to the hole well as Erfurt guard Musa Abra and Alba Berlin big man Amon Dorries scored lay in´s. Jena forward Daniel Biel used his explosiveness getting a bucket on transition for the 26-24 Germany lead after 10 minutes.
In the second quarter Italy came out hot getting consecutive three´s from Matheo Accorsi from Virtus Segafredo Bologna and Achille Lonati from AX Armani Exchange Milano for the 33-31 Italy lead. Germany´s head coach Mario Dugandzic then took a time out. This woke Germany up. Germany then totally ripped apart Italy going on a 19-0 run to close out the first hal to lead 49-33. Germany was super aggressive attacking the rim getting baskets or free throws. Daniel Biel began the attack with 2 lay in´s while ex RheinStar guard Davi Remagen made 6 free throws and Wurzburg guard Jervis Scheffs hit a trey. Italy had their chances with offensive rebounds, but simply couldn´t buy a bucket. Germany was defending with authority not allowing easy looks while continuing to rebound well.
In the third quarter Germany continued to manage the lead well leading by as much as 20 points and leading 69-54 after 30 minutes. A 9-2 run by Germany allowed them to lead by 20 points early in the second half. Germany showed their versatility getting back to their long ball unloading 3 three´s in a row by Biel and two three´s by Kodjoe who continued to show that he had made steps with his shot now which was only at 29% in the Pro B last season. After a bucket from Theo Airhienbuwa from Dolomiti Energia Trentino (Serie A), Germany struck back again with their delicate scoring in bunches going on a 9-0 run to lead 66-39. In the run, it was the magic of 3 level scorer Daniel Biel who produced 7 points with a trey, lay in and free throws. It seemed like Italy was out of game for sure, but they never gave up going on a 10-1 run and outscored Germany 15-3 to end the third quarter. Accorsi, Lonati and Trucchetti once again found their range knocking home three´s.
In the fourth quarter, both teams took their feet off the gas pedal as there was less scoring produced. Germany buckled down on defense and defended until the buzzer sounded never losing focus and allowed only 13 points. A 9-3 run to begin from Germany pretty much sealed the win as Germany led 78-57 as Kodjoe showed again how lethal of a scorer he can be when he has to. When you had guys like Dominik Dolic and Marko Volf as teammates in Munich, it wasn´t always easy to get into a scoring groove, but with team Germany he can show his scoring qualities. Accorsi got hot in crunch time nailing home 7 points and displaying his 3 level scoring qualities, but it was too little to late as Germany rode home with the win. Germany was led By Daniel Biel with 17 points and 10 rebounds while Nicoals Kodjoe added 16 points while Italy was led by Matteo Accorsi with 15 points while Achille Lonati added 13 points. Germany shot 38% from the field and 33% from outside and had 53 rebounds and 15 turnovers while Italy shot 32% from the field and 32% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 13 turnovers.
Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Raleigh, North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career with Word Of God Christian Academy. He then played at 5 schools in JUCO and NCAA. He began with the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 years at the Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then added a season with Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%, then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2% and finished at Boston College (NCAA) averaging 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Chase for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome to the EPG Baskets. After a 5 team career in JUCO and NCAA, how blessed to call yourself a pro player?
I’m extremely blessed to be in this position to call myself a pro. As a kid I’ve always wanted to be at this level, so I’m proud to have finally reached this level.
What do you know in general about the country Germany and it’s basketball?
I know Germany is a great country with a lot of history and culture. I know basketball is growing there and the competition is good. I’m excited to be there, learn more about the country, and be part of German basketball.
Have you had any ex teammates or opponents or friends play in Germany the last years?
Yes, I have a friend who played in Germany. I grew up and played AAU basketball with DJ Horne, and he played for MLP Academics Heidelberg last season. I’ve heard good things about Germany and the basketball there, and I’m excited to experience it for myself.
What were the main reasons for joining the EPG Baskets Koblenz? What was most enticing for you to join with this club?
The main reasons I chose EPG Baskets Koblenz were the opportunity to grow as a player, compete at a high level, and be part of a team with big goals. I liked the vision of the club and the way they believe in me. I’m excited to come in, work hard, and help the team be successful.
How did the talks go with head coach Stephan Dohrn? What did you instantly appreciate about his basketball philosophy?
The talks with Coach Stephan Dohrn went really well. I appreciated his basketball philosophy because a lot of his principles are similar to how we played at the University of South Dakota. He believes in playing hard, being together as a team, competing every day, and doing the little things to win. That’s the type of basketball I enjoy playing.
Did the term defensive stopper ever come up in the conversations?
Yeah, the term defensive stopper came up in our conversations. I’ve always enjoyed playing defense, bringing energy, and taking on the challenge of guarding the other team’s best players. It’s something I take pride in and a role I’m excited for.
What kind of steps do you want to make as a player in your rookie season?
I want to keep improving and become an elite shooter. I want to be more consistent, keep working on my game, and do whatever I can to help the team win.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would say my game is similar to guys like Derrick White or Jrue Holiday. They can impact the game on both ends of the floor, defend at a high level, make plays for others, and knock down shots. I try to bring that same toughness, versatility, and winning mentality every time I step on the court.
You fill the stat sheet like no other. Could versatility be your middle name?
Haha, maybe. I just try to do a little bit of everything and help the team however I can. I’m not really focused on one thing, I just want to make an impact wherever I’m needed.
You were a top defensive player with South Dakota and Boston College. Would you classify yourself already as a 2- way player as you go into your rookie season overseas?
Yeah, I would say I see myself as a two-way player. I take a lot of pride in defending and bringing energy on that end, but I also know I can make plays and contribute offensively. I’m just focused on continuing to get better and helping the team win.
Your three pointer is still a work in progress. What steps are you taking so that you can gain more consistency with your shooting? I’ve just been putting in a lot of work and getting more reps every day. I’m focusing on being consistent with my shot, staying confident, and trusting the work I’ve been putting in. I know it’s something I can keep improving, and I’m excited to continue growing as a shooter.
Talk about your defensive game. After what NBA defender do you model your game and can you become a lock down defender at the pro level?
I’ve always taken pride in my defense and the way I can impact the game on that end. I like to watch guys like Jrue Holiday and Derrick White because of how they compete, guard multiple positions, and make winning plays. I believe I can become a lockdown defender at the pro level by continuing to work, compete, and bring that same energy every night.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve as a player? Right now I’m just focused on becoming a more complete player. I’m working on my shooting, being more consistent, and continuing to improve on both ends of the floor. I just want to keep getting better and help the team in any way I can.
You began your NCAA career with the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) but played only 1 game. What memories do you have of that season and what positives could you take from it?
That year was definitely a learning experience for me. I didn’t get a lot of time on the court, but I was able to learn from the coaches and the players around me. It helped me grow, stay patient, and understand what it takes to compete at the college level.
You then played 2 seasons with Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO has reported that it was a real grind, but one that they wouldn’t have traded the world for. How was it for you in JUCO? JUCO was definitely a grind, but I’m really grateful for that experience. The competition was a lot better than people realize. There were a lot of guys who were good enough to play Division 1 basketball. Every day you had to compete and earn everything. It helped me grow as a player and as a person, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything because it prepared me for the next level.
You made a huge jump in your game in JUCO in your second season. How key was head coach Phillip Gaffney in your basketball development?
Coach Phillip Gaffney had a huge role in my development. He believed in me, pushed me every day, and helped me become more confident in my game. He gave me the opportunity to grow and helped prepare me for the next level. I’m very grateful for everything he did for me.
You then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. How important was this season for you coming from JUCO? The team didn’t win as much as you wanted to. How did your game grow that season? That season was very important for me coming from JUCO. It was my first time playing Division 1 basketball, and it helped me adjust to the speed and level of competition. Even though we didn’t win as much as we wanted to, I learned a lot and my game continued to grow. I became a better defender, a better playmaker, and more comfortable playing at that level.
You then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. This was your break out season. How vital was Eric Peterson and Dwight Smith for your basketball development? How did they help your game most? Eric Peterson and Dwight Smith played a huge role in my development. They believed in me and gave me the confidence to show what I could do at the Division 1 level. They pushed me every day, held me accountable, and helped me become a more complete player on both ends of the floor. They helped me improve my decision making, leadership, and overall understanding of the game. That season was my favorite year of college basketball, and I’m really thankful for everything they did for me.
You had many great games that season, but how memorable was the 85-84 win over NDSU where you scored 28 points?
That game was definitely one of my favorite memories from that season. NDSU was a really good team, and we were down 7 with about 2 minutes left in the game. We stayed together, kept fighting, and found a way to come back and win 85-84. It was a great team win, and being able to contribute with 28 points made it even more special.
You then finished at Boston College (NCAA) averaging 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. You were the defensive stopper, but didn’t score as much as with South Dakota. Was it tough having a different role?
No, it wasn’t tough. I knew coming into Boston College my role was going to be different, and I embraced it. I’ve always been a player who does whatever the team needs to win. Being a defensive stopper and bringing energy every night was something I took pride in. At the same time, I know I can score the ball and I’m always working to improve that part of my game no matter what role I have. I just want to continue becoming a more complete player and make an impact wherever I’m needed.
How did head coach Earl Grant give you that last push to prepare you for a pro career?
Coach Earl Grant helped me a lot by teaching me how to embrace my role and be effective in whatever the team needed from me. He helped me understand that every role is important and how to make an impact even when things aren’t always going your way. Going through adversity and learning how to handle different situations helped me grow as a player and prepare me for the next level.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Fred Payne?
Haha, during the 1-on-1 drills Fred would win some and I’d win some. We were both competitive and it was always fun going against each other. But I’m taking myself though.
Who is the toughest player that you ever battled in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
The toughest player I battled wasn’t actually in the NCAA, it was during my NJCAA days. We played against Nae’Qwan Tomlin when he was at Chipola while I was at Gulf Coast State College. He was a 6’8 wing who could do a little bit of everything and was a really tough matchup. Going against guys like him in JUCO prepared me because the competition was extremely high and a lot of those players were good enough to play at the next level.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
It’s honestly way more than five, but off the top of my head I’ll go with: Dre Bullock Kaleb Stewart Justin Wilson Fred Payne Mayuom Buom I’ve been lucky to play with a lot of great teammates throughout my career. These guys stand out because of the relationships we built, the way we competed, and the memories we made on and off the court.
Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time? My NBA Mount Rushmore would be: Michael Jordan LeBron James Kobe Bryant Shaquille O’Neal Those four guys changed the game in different ways and are some of the greatest players to ever play.
Who is your GOAT?
LeBron James.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?
Yeah, I saw it. Honestly, they probably should’ve left the first one alone. The original was a classic and it’s hard to recreate that same feeling years later. It was cool seeing everyone back, but the first one is tough to beat.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Juhwan Harris-Dyson In the Dragon Dome Bad Honnef in 2026
Juhwan Harris-Dyson (198-SG-1999, college: California) is a 26 year old 198cm forward playing his sixth professional season and fifth in Germany and first with Pro B team EN Baskets Schwelm. Last season he played with the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 14.4ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg, Steals-3 (2.4spg), 1.1bpg, FGP: 67.8%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 51.7%. In the 2024-2025 season he balled with SV Hagen-Haspe 70 (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 20.6ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.9apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 57.0%. In the 2023-2024 season he played with BSV Wulfen (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 13.9ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 64.4%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 63.9%. He played the 2022-2023 season with CSM Galati (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 8.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.6apg, Steals-1 (2.4spg), FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 20.7%, FT: 50.9%. He played his rookie season overseas with BBG Herford (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 17.6ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-3 (2.9spg), FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 62.8%. He began his basketball career at Heritage Christian High School and then played 3 seasons and 70 NCAA games with the University Of California (NCAA). He spoke togermanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Juhwan for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is your summer going?
I´m in the Duesseldorf area now. I have been working out and also played some 3X3 ball. It is a really fun game. You have to be in a different type of shape. I think that it is a great addition to the sport.
3X3 has gotten so big in the last year. Why do you think it has blown up so quickly? It is a very competitive sport. People play 3X3 or 4X4 at the parks. The rules are different and it´s an exciting game. A lot can happen in 10 minutes.
How has your summer been? Did you take a nice vacation?
I went to Bulgaria and spent time at the nation´s capital Sofia. I also played some 3X3 there. The people were very welcoming. I will be visiting Paris on Thursday.
Is there a place you would like to visit in USA that you haven´t been to? I want to visit Disney Land in Orlando, Florida. I have been to Miami.
You could have been home sooner in May after the Dragons season ended, but you opted to remain in Germany and stick with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. What positives did that time have for your game?
I think being able to practice with BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn helped my game in many areas. I got used to the physical side of the game in the BBL. My decision making got better as well as I got better used to the speed of the game. It also helped me that I could practice against strong players like Grayson Murphy.
After training a season with an easyCredit BBL team, what do you feel is still missing from your game to reach that level? I think it´s really just shot selection and being able to take more three´s in rhythm and in the flow of the game. I need to expand my offensive game, because defensively I know that I can keep up with BBL players.
You won´t suit up with the Dragons Rhondorf. Wasn´t there a chance you could stay? I mean the chance to practice with a BBL team won´t be possible this season. There was a lot of consideration for me to return to Rhondorf. It was great working with Max Becker. But I just felt it was time to take a different step in my career and Schwelm was the best place for me.
Congrats on signing with the EN Baskets Schwelm. Did you not have some Pro A offers? I had no offers, but a little interest from some teams.
What were the main reasons for joining the EN Baskets Schwelm?
I joined this organization, because they have shown in the past that they are a consistent playoff team. They have experienced Pro B players. I also like the atmosphere in their gym.
What do you instantly like most about this organization the EN Baskets Schwelm?
It is a good place. I have only heard good things about them. I think I will be able to get better there and let my game grow to what I want it to be.
How did the talks go with head coach Falk Moeller. What did you instantly enjoy most about his basketball philosophy?
He gives a lot of freedom to the players and his focus is on defense. I will be able to paly my style which is up and down. I feel like I will become a better defensive player in his system.
You battled against Schwelm twice last season losing both games, but scoring 18 points in each game. What memories do you have from those games?
I remember the games being up and down and very physical. They played very good defense and I had tough looks. The atmosphere was great when we played there.
The EN Baskets Schwelm are a hungry club with high expectations. Is a title a realistic goal?
Every team I go to, my goal is to win a championship. If we can mesh well as a team and go through the ups and downs, anything is possible.
You had a potent season with the Dragons Rhondorf. What are your main goals with your game this season? I want to shoot better than last season. I think that my shot selection was good last season. I need to continue to take good shots and make them. I will continue to be in the gym and work hard on my shooting.
You belonged to the best defenders in the Pro B last season. Do you feel like you can make the next step on the defensive end this season?
I need to stay out of foul trouble. I played less minutes when I was in foul trouble and couldn´t help my team more. I have to be a smarter defender. I want to win defensive player of the year.
On what areas of your game are you working on most this season? Perhaps your FT shooting? FT shooting and three´s will be key. I want to be able to shoot better all around the court. Also I want to work on my ball handling as well.
You won´t battle the Dragons this season because they play in the Pro B south. Will you still keep tabs on them? I will continue to keep tabs on them. I hope we meet in the playoffs.
Are you a football (soccer) fan? Have you followed World Cup? I looked at the scores here and there. I also watched some games at night. I´m getting more into the sport.
USA had a nice run, but lost 4-1 against Belgium. What impressed you most about their game? I watched them a little. It was impressive how far they got.
Who do you think will win the World Cup? I think Argentina will win. They have the GOAT with Messi.
As crazy as this may seem sometimes even an Andi Obst isn´t enough at the end to secure a title in a nasty game 5 atmosphere on the road for Alba Berlin who witnessed that recently. For shooting star Jack Kayil, he didn´t have his best game in game 5 shooting a dismal 2/11 from the field, but in the end all that counts is the chip. The 2 baskets he did make were important ones in the fourth quarter in the miraculous comeback from Alba Berlin. He also downed valuable free throws in the game to secure the 84-81 victory in Munich. The last weeks have probably been the best in the life of Jack Kayil. He won his first real pro chip with Alba Berlin after winning the NBBL (U-19) title back to back with Alba Berlin in 2023 and the Young Rasta Dragons in 2024 and then topped that by being drafted in the NBA in the second round and landing with the New York Knicks. He had an interesting path that had some adversary long the way, but in the end everything he did was right. One guy who was on his side for many years during his youth period as an assistant coach and the last pro season with Alba Berlin as a player development coach was affable Italian Emanuele Berti. Both were on the court in Frankfurt in 2023 celebrating after Nils Machowski dropped a buzzer beater to beat the Young Rasta Dragons and celebrated again recently in Munich after Alba Berlin won the easyCredit BBL title. They went through so much together and Berti had many fond memories with Kayil on the court, but nothing topped the win in Munich recently. “Being able to win the BBL title together was unexpected. I mean we fought through so many difficult situations during the season. Jack had so much pressure with college on his mind, then scouts, NBA etc. It was so much to digest, but he was still in the gym every day and worked hard to get even better. When we won in Munich, Jack was the first player I met on the court. I gave him a big hug. It was not normal for a 20 year old kid like him to play such a big role on a title team. Being able to hug him after the win was the moment where we closed the circle. It was the end of his development. Now he would become an NBA player. His nickname from me was always “El Nino (the kid), but now he had become a man”, warned Emanuele Berti.
Emanuele Berti joined Alba Berlin in 2018 when Jack Kayil was 12 years old. He saw him play for the first time in the U-13 and then was his coach for the first time in the U-15. “I remember him being a reserved kid, but he was always open to jokes. He liked to be funny. He was a kid you just liked right away. On the court, I noticed this special personality right away. He wasn´t shy with the ball. He saw things on the court that other kids did not see. He had fakes, could go full court, made great passes and had this smell for steals. He was a special player”, stressed Emanuele Berti. Kayil was always one of the younger players and one could see already then he really was a unique player that had a massive future in front of him. “I remember in his second JBBL year, he was injured in Feb and we had to play Rostock and prompt lost without him. One could see a huge difference in the team play when he wasn´t there. The team really struggled without him trying to find easy solutions. He had the best + – that season. One could see how important his game was for the success of the team”, remembered Emanuele Berti. Him being one of the youngest on the team continued in his first NBBL season with Alba Berlin in 2022-2023 and despite the team being filled with so much talent, he showed right away that he could be an impact player, but he also got vital trust from the coaching staff who let him make mistakes. “I will never forget the second game of the season in Vechta who was one of the best teams in the NBBL. We were without our top players Elias Rapique, Nils Machowski and Rikus Schulte who were with the BBL team. We had the next man up mentality and that person was Jack. Jack began with 5 consecutive turnovers. Usually the coach will take him out, but I have to give a lot of credit to Vladi Bogojevic who kept him in. He had to learn from mistakes and see what it felt like to struggle. He played 28 minutes and showed early that he had something special. He would show flashes of making flashy dunks or big baskets. The turning point was at ANGT in Munich. It was his break out. He was young and had no expectations, but he totally turned it on. He played unbelievably well creating for others and making key baskets. It was not normal for a young player like him to take over when there were older guys on the team”, stated Emanuele Berti.
Pic credit: Alba Berlin
Alba Berlin would win the 2023 NBBL title mainly because it had a deep roster that had great talent at each position. The club was especially talented at the guard position with Nils Machowski, Jack Kayil and Dorian Grosber. None of these guards were dominant, but instead there was a healthy balance between the three. “Our style then was a lot different to what Vechta did. We did a mix of isolation, finding our teammates and getting the big men more involved. Nils was in front of Jack and Dorian. It was good for them 2 to learn from him. Jack and Dorian played more transition. But already then Jack had a special knack of reading the game well and knowing how to make the right play”, remembered Emanuele Berti. How well were his leadership qualities already developed on a team that already had many great leaders? “At the beginning he didn´t speak so much, but led by example. He became more vocal later. Elias Rapique was the vocal leader then. But he showed that he was never scared to take over in important moments of games and put his body on the line. He was fearless and showed his teammates how it should be”, stressed Emanuele Berti. Kayil already had a potent drive in 2022-2023 and nice offensive game, but it was his playmaking that was still raw then and would develop nicely the last years and especially last season having a teammate like Martin Hermannsson around. “Jack already had the ability to read the pick and roll well and when to go by himself or create or to slow down the game when needed or look for the correct tactical solutions. His passing made big strides this season. Jack always has had good instincts and knew how to find that first scoring option. But this season Martin worked a lot with him reading the situation well when the opponent makes adjustments. He learned that it doesn´t always have to be that first pass, but the late pass can be just as important. Jack couldn´t have found a better person than Martin to help him with his playmaking”, remembered Emanuele Berti. But it wasn´t only his offensive game that got him to the NBA, but his physicality and defensive skills were big assets as well. “Jack has always been an athletic kid. If you were to see his brother, you would think a mountain is there. He is a bit shorter, but double the width. You notice right away that there is something special in the family in terms of body. His body mass helped him then already to slow down the game, change speeds and be in the air longer than others. His physicality came latter, but was in the making then. He did a good job the last years continuing to build on his physicality. In terms of his defense, he always had a knack to steal the ball. He didn´t have the habits yet when he was young, but it grew with time. He made his biggest jump this season on defense. Pedro Calles said it best when he said that Jack used his physicality every second. He understood to be physical on every possession”, added Emanuele Berti.
After Jack Kayil won the 2023 NBBL title with Alba Berlin, he surprised many by leaving the organization and joining rival Young Rasta Dragons. This move had 2 sides that one had to understand. Many people didn´t understand this especially Alba Berlin. “On the one hand, it was brave for him to leave his comfort zone and he gained valuable experience being away from home and taking on a new challenge. However on the other hand we as Alba Berlin tend to think that we do an excellent job with our youth. We think that he could of even become better had he stayed with us. He could of played with the BBL team earlier and been successful. Serbia was a tough experience, but all in all a time where he could face adversary and grow as a player and person”, said Emanuele Berti. He took another step this season with easyCredit BBL team Alba Berlin averaging 12.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 78.5% and in the Basketball Champions League averaged 11.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 26.6%, FT: 77.4%. “Jack became a very very reliable player this season. Pedro Calles said it best in preseason when he said Jack was like a 7th American. His strong physicality and mentality counted like a seventh American. His confidence also continued to grow within the season. The team began to accept quickly that he could make the big plays. His defensive presence was amazing. Jack had a big role on scoring passing and just being unpredictable. You never knew what you would get from him”, laughed Emanuele Berti. As Kayil departs for the NBA, the special working relationship between Berti and him has come to an end. It is a relationship that he will never forget. “We had a very open relationship. He was a very responsive kid that always wanted to understand and asked questions and was never short of having ideas. When I was an assistant during his youth days, we weren´t as close, but now as a player development coach we were closer. He was always nice to be around and was always focused about basketball, but could also be funny off the court. He is the example of how I would like every youth player in the Alba Berlin organization to come out to the pro´s. He was always in the gym and had the right mind set”, warned Emanuele Berti.
Kayil was drafted by the Houston Rockets at #39 and traded to the New York Knicks. “It was a huge achievement for him to be drafted. It was always his dream. Now we will see what happens. Him being drafted was a good representation of the hard work that the Alba Berlin organization put in. The coaching staff was huge for his big development this season. But really every person in the Alba Berlin organization have a piece in him being rewarded being drafted”, added Emanuele Berti. The German guard is coming to a team that just won the NBA title after 53 years again, have a German big man with Ariel Hukporti and incredible players like Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. “I think that Jack has all the tools to make it. He has proven in the past that he can overcome any challenge and get the best out of it. I´m very optimistic he will make it. The Knicks have an Italian player development coach and I hope that Jack takes advantage of it”, commented Emanuele Berti. With Jalen Brunson, he will have a top guard that could serve as his mentor. “I think that he will be perfect. They have a lot in common. Both were second round pics, have a nice mid range game and are physical. Hermannsson did a good job helping him become a pro in Europe and Brunson can do the same in the NBA”, stressed Emanuele Berti. The question now is will Jack Kayil be a role player or impact player in the NBA? “I think that he could be an impact player if the situation is right. When I see how well a guy like Hugo Gonzalez fit in Boston, I don´t see why Jack can´t do the same in New York. I don´t know how much time it will take, But he has the tools to become a high level player in the NBA”, warned Emanuele Berti.
Meissa Faye (198-SF-2007) is a 18 year old 198cm forward playing his first season in the ratiopharm Ulm organization. This season he has gathered duty in 4 competitions. He helped the Pro B team reach the pro B final averaging 17/471/1 stats and helped the NBBL (U-19) team reach the NBBL Top 4 tournament in Berlin averaging 16/4/2 stats and also played 6 Eurocup games and 1 easyCredit BBL game. He began his basketball career with Pole Paris France (NMI) and last season averaged 9.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 49.6%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.7%. He has played Angt and last summer played at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket in Belgrade (Serbia) winning the silver medal averaging 8.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 35.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
Thanks Meissa for talking to germanhoops.com. You played 1 easyCredit BBL game against Chemnitz. What kind of an experience was that. What do you feel is still missing from your game to play more minutes? A German passport, because I played more in Euro cup because there is no limit of foreigners
You had your Eurocup break through scoring 16 points against Trento. How cool was that experience? What did you learn about your game in that game? it was nice I just played like I know how to do. Coach gave me confidence and minutes so I just showed what I was capable of.
Ulm has many very talented pro´s. If you had to pick one player who has had the biggest impact on you who would it be? I would say Tommy Klepeisz and Nelson Weidemann by giving me advices either on the mental part or on my game. They have a lot of experience and they really helped me. It’s always good to receive advices from experienced players.
You began your basketball career with Pole France Paris. How do you remember your early years there? Did you have a mentor there? It was really impressive at the beginning to arrive in this campus where a lot of great athletes were before and you just inspired by all those NBA players who went there before. So you work hard to end up like them.
You were teammates with Nathan Soliman. How special of a player is he? He is like you also a big French prospect for the NBA.
He was great. He was ready really young and everybody knows he’s a top prospect and he will be great in the NBA. He always had that special thing that you cannot explain.
You won the Silver at the U-18 Euro in Serbia. What memories do you have of that tournament? Was the 82-81 loss to Spain one of the toughest in your career?
Honestly, it’s tough at the beginning but now I have only great memories because it was an incredible experience with great people. Great staff great players. And we can be proud of what we did. Yes, it is the toughest loss but I wasonly 18 so I know I will still win a lot of games and lose some as well. This is basketball.
Is the NCAA still a route for you? It can help but also be tough. Spaniard Guillermo Del Pino who scored 23 points against you in the U-18 Euro final went to Maryland this season and only averaged 1,7ppg. In your career, you have to make choices so for now staying in Europe is my priority, but I don’t close no doors to anything.
What is your biggest goal NBA or Euroleague? Some Europeans that I have interviewed actually have said Euroleague. Can you understand that? My biggest goal is the NBA, but of course I can understand it because euroleague is also a great competition with great basketball that can be more entertaining than NBA. Some players also think more of the Euroleague career than a NBA one.
How cool would the headline read Teo Millicic and Meissa Faye reach the NBA? How special of a player is Teo and how is your relationship with him?
Teo is really talented, but he is also a hard worker. He is very passionate and always try to give his best on the court. Of course it will be nice that’s a goal for both of us. And we have a nice relationship on and off the court and we always trying to get better.
You battled Boston Celtic Hugo Gonzalez once. What do you remember from that battle most? It was a big game, the final of the Euroleague Juniors against Real Madrid. We lost after overtime but those kind of games makes you want to become better because you can see that there’s a lot of good players in Europe.
Please name your 5 teammates of all-time?
Nolan Traoré
Adam Atamna
Hugo Yimga Moukouri
Nathan Soliman
Cameron Houindo/Noa kouakou heugue
Please list your personal NBA and French Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?
Leon Kalinic (206-F-2000, college: Park, agency: Starting 5) is a 25 year old 206cm forward from Croatia that helped the ETB Miners Essen win the Pro B title averaging 7,2ppg an d4,1rpg. He began his career in the KK Cedevita Zagreb youth program. He played 4 years in the States and 3 years with Ouachita Baptist University (NCAA2) playing a total of 73 games and in his last 2 seasons averaged 6.5ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 70.0% and 6.8ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 92.0%. He then played a season with Park University (NAIA): averaging 3.7ppg, 2.8rpg. In the 2024-2025 season he played with KK Velika Gorica (Prva Liga) averaging 10.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 82.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 Pro B title.
Thanks Leon for talking to germanhoops.com. Your 2026 Pro B champion. How good does it feel? Is this your personal biggest achievement as a player?
Feels great honestly I’m still riding the winner wave. It’s close, but I would say this would be my biggest achievement as a player in a professional league.
Essen lost game 1 by 36 points and won game 2 by 41 points. Many are saying this is the greatest comeback in German basketball. How special do you rate this massive comeback?
I might have to agree with that, I don’t know details about the history of German basketball but it has to be one of those which will be remembered and talked about.
What was the team feeling after the horrible 107-71 loss at Orange Academy? How much soul searching did the team do the days following?
How can a team feel? Losing by 36 in the first game of the finals, against the younger team, and then having to drive home wasn’t great, but that’s where we stand above everybody else. Nobody had any doubt that we would come back in the next game, even on the bus ride home we started planning our revenge.
How key was head coach Lars Wendt? How did he help the team most in the days leading up to game 2?
Coach Lars did his job, not once did he say or show it was over. Everybody played their part and that’s how we came back.
How quickly did the team know that game 2 would see only half of Orange Academy as all the talented youth players wouldn´t play because they were attending the NBBL Top 4 in Berlin? Personally, the night before, but that didn’t matter. They could’ve come with the full team and we would’ve still become champions!
Any other team could have underestimated Orange Academy. Why didn´t Essen? That’s us, from the coaches to the players, everybody knew their role and every game was a championship game.
What was the focus of Essen going in? I mean did you have a plan how you would come back through out a 40 minute game so you would have more than 36 points?
From the first second, the first minute hit them hard. We knew we couldn’t win in the first quarter, so we put our heads down and worked hard every second of the game and the results shows.
The team began well and led 53-32 at the break. Essen was playing well offensively, but still had to do more on the defensive end. What wasn´t functioning as well so far on the defensive end through the first 20 minutes? Our plan was to be more than 18 points up at the half and we did more than that.
What did head coach Lars Wendt give the team for advice at half-time? He never forgot to praise us, but also he never let us forget the main goal.
In the third quarter Orange Academy actually played well for the first few minutes outscoring Essen, but then came a 14-0 run by Essen which changed the game. What was key in the run for Essen? We knew at some point they would go on a run, but we never let off the gas. Ben dominated the paint, but most importantly everyone who got in gave 100%.
Essen was up with 32 points with 10 minutes to play. Essen was in the drivers seat. Which player at this moment was a big motivator with words?
Marc Friederici was always there to bring us together and motivate us.
Essen began with a 10-2 run to lead 86-46. Now all Essen had to do was manage the lead to the buzzer. Essen then held Orange Academy minutes without scoring. Did you want it more than Orange Academy? All I have to say is, they showed up with seven players. It’s clear who wanted it more.
Essen outscored Orange Academy 41-21 in the last half. Was this the best defense the team played in the season? Certainly one of the best. As bad as it sounds, we had so many good defensive games I can only remember the bad ones.
Essen held their 2 best scorers Joel Cwik and Namouri Omog to 8/28 shooting and 25 points. How much of a focus was the defense on slowing them down? Of course they were our main priority, but we knew if we wanted to win we had to stop all of them.
Quarshawn Lane had an incredible 28/11/10 game. Did you sense going into the game that he could have a type of game of his life?
Since day one I knew Q had it in him, there were so many games where he nearly had a triple double and it is kind of poetic to have it on the last game and to win the championship.
What was your fondest moment in the final in Essen against Orange Academy?
Of course the final buzzer going off and us actually winning is awesome, but I have to say my poster dunk in transition was my favorite moment.
Zavian McLean (193-G-2001, college: FGCU) is a 25 year old 201cm forward that was born in Izmir, Turkey but grew up in North Carolina and played his rookie season overseas with at SC Vasco da Gama Porto (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging 25/4/3/2 and Entente Orleans 45 (France-ProB) averaging 3,0ppg. He played AAU ball with Team Wall and also played at Village Christian Academy. He played 3 seasons at Columbia (NCAA) averaging 7.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 71.1%, 7.0ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 77.3% and 9.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 68.2%. He then added a season at Florida Gulf Coast University (NCAA) averaging 11.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
You played your rookie season overseas with SC Vasco da Gama Porto (Portugal-Liga Betclic). You signed very late into the season. After a solid senior year at Florida Gulf Coast, why did you sign so late? I had a serious injury at FGCU and didn’t get surgery until the end of the season. I wanted to support my teammates until the season ended. I was also thinking of staying in college. Because of my injury and not having played basketball in a while, I had no offers. Teams didn’t want to take a chance on me. I was really fortunate that SC Vasco da Gama Porto did.
What kind of an experience has it been playing with SC Vasco da Gama Porto (Portugal-Liga Betclic)? As a guy who grew up in North Carolina, what have you appreciated most about the culture of Portugal? Portugal is really nice. Porto is a great mix of New York City that is super busy and Ft Meyers Florida that is smaller and more intimate, but has fun things to do. The club has helped me get integrated very well. The food is great and it is a lot cheaper than the States. Life is great.
Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I heard names like Russell Westbrook, John Wall and Kendrick Nunn. I just try to mold myself so other players can compare their game to mine. But I do try to take certain things from players for my game.
You’re a player that fills the stat sheet well. Talk about your biggest strengths with your offensive game?
I’m a competitor that will do anything for his team to win. I can shoot, go downhill, draw fouls, finish at the rim, and be efficient from the field. I think that my ability to create for others is an underrated part of my game. I try to use fundamentals to make the game easier for me. I always try to make the best decisions and not force anything.
Talk a little about the development of your three pointer. You have been shooting the ball well the last years. What kind of a shooter do you still want to become?
As a player I always want to improve my game. Steph Curry once said until I can shoot 100% from the field, I can always improve. I knew after my freshman year where I shot around 23%, that I needed to shoot better if I wanted to play more. In the Ivy league the best shooting teams win.
Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I always compete on defense. I see myself as a two way player. I take pride on offense but also on trying to stop my match up and make it as difficult as possible for him to score. I scout and watch film to improve. I understand that if you don’t play defense, you won’t be respected. Playing defense is a badge of honor for me.
On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to improve your game?
I’m always working on my three pointer, but I’m also working on my decision making and being a better ball handler. But overall I polish my whole game.
You played at Columbia University (NCAA) for 3 years and played 76 NCAA games. You improved your three point shooting percentage every season. What kind of a player did you become there under Jim Engles? Columbia was a great experience for me. I learned to play the game, be efficient and be a leader. In high school I was a scorer, scorer, scorer. There I could afford to take plays off but not in the NCAA. That was a no go. I learned that I needed to work on my game. I learned about coverages, triggers, scouting and watching film. I learned to implement the technical side of basketball.
You had many memorable games at Columbia and closed out your last season there strong, but in losing causes. What was your favorite personal game at Columbia? I think the win against Temple. It was the first major win for the school in a while.
You then added a season at Florida Gulf Coast University (NCAA) averaging 11.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 62.8%. How important was adding that extra season at FGCU for your basketball development? That last year there was super important for my game. Everything that I knew about the game to that point was validated there. I learned how to act as a pro there. Basketball was my life there. I flourished there. The coaches there had been players themselves as well as coached future NBA players. I felt like I was in high school again. I played with confidence and had a role.
You had many great games at FGCU like scoring 18 points in a narrow 60-59 win over FIU. What was your fondest moment at FGCU? Beating Jacksonville after being down by 24 points. I also cherished the back to back wins against N Alabama and Central Arkansas. It was a great atmosphere there.
How did head coach Patrick Chambers give you that push to help you be ready for a professional career?
Coach Chambers knew that I was ready for a professional career. He approached me as a man. We had a great relationship. He taught me to straight and always said that the most important thing that I can give you is the truth. We always had such meaningful conversations. He let me show my game and I was a part of winning.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dallion Johnson?
We never actually played 1-1. He is a close friend of mine. We had a lot of battles in practice and during the summers. He was a great scorer.
Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? Noah Kirkwood and Chris Ledlum.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time? My top 3 are Eddie Turner, Liam Murphy and Josh Odunowo
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads? Michael Jordan, Leborn James, Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? I saw a snippet of it a few days ago. I will watch it.
Sam Griesel (200-G/F-2000, college: Nebraska, agency: LUMANI 10.7) is a 26 year old 200cm guard that completed his third pro season overseas and first with Alba Berlin helping win the 2026 easyCredit BBL title averaging 6/2/1 stats and in the BCL averaged 7/2/2. He played his first 2 pro seasons in Germany with the Telekom Baskets Bonn averaging 7/3 and 9/3 in the BBL and in the BCL averaged 8/3 and 6/2. He began his basketball career at Lincoln East High school. He then played for North Dakota State University (NCAA) from 2018-2022 averaging 14.3ppg, 6.6rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 75.6% in his final season. He added an extra NCAA season with the University of Nebraska (NCAA) averaging 12.0ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 68.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 BBL title.
Congrats Sam on winning the 2026 easyCredit BBL title. How good does it feel to win that first pro chip?
It´s really hard to put into words. I´m just insanely grateful for winning the title. I know how many guys not even reach a final in a career. So just to be able to say I won is a very special feeling.
How big was the incentive to win after losing the cup? Granted it was against Bamberg, but you showed during the whole season that the team could grow further and be successful.
I remember when we lost the cup to Bamberg, we as a team were talking after how we still had big ambitions and goals in the season. We kept grinding until we reached the final. I remember how we as a team stressed in game 1 in Munich that we weren´t going to feel heart break again like in the cup. It was a full circle moment.
That was just a exciting series against FC Bayern Munich. One could call Alba Berlin the game 5 king Do you feel like the experience against Vechta and Bamberg helped the team in game 5 again t Munich?
Yes it did in a way. We had a special approach. I mean we had done it before against Vechta and Bamberg so why not again? Even when we were down 20 points at the break, we were confident that we could come back. We never gave up. We spoke about going out and having fun and let me tell you we had fun.
It looked like FC Bayern Munich might win it at the end, but Alba Berlin always had an answer. Was your will just a bit more than them?
I can´t speak for Munich, but our will was always big. We had gone through so much adversary the whole season. Many had doubted us at the start of the season. I think that and all the adversary we went through the whole season brought us a lot closer. We always wanted to out work teams. Our togetherness and toughness through out the season helped us win the title
Andi Obst hit big shots at the end, but also missed big shots. Were you praying a bit at the end?
Yes I was. I watched the end of the game again, because I hadn´t seen it. I watched the 2 Obst shots at the end. I thought that first one was going in and the second one looked perfect from the motion. But then it bounced around a bit and we got the rebound and the rest is history. You just try to guard him as best as possible and of course pray.
How big was the will to win from Jonas Mattissek who is one of the identity figures of the team? He really stepped it up in game 5.
Not only was Jonas incredible, but Malte Delow as well. Jonas began well making some three´s early on and I´m just so happy for both of them. They are from Berlin and our identity figures. It was so special for them.
How was the train ride home? Did it feel like a long ride or did it go by rapidly?
I feel like it went by fast, but at the same time, it felt like it took long. The atmosphere was great. I enjoyed the moment. It was so hectic and hard to walk around in the train. There was a lot of music and beer. I apologize to the DB (German train association) for how we left our cabin.
The Vechta series was back and forth. What do you feel like was the difference in that series?
I think that key in all 3 series was our toughness and togetherness. Vechta ended the season strong and took that momentum into the playoffs. That helped them against us and they also have high level players. They punched us in game 1 and we could steal one there. It was very hot in Vechta in their small gym and they have good fans. We took momentum from game 4 into game 5 at home. We always believed in ourselves to win the series.
Jack Kayil and Martin Hermannsson combined for 39 points in game 5. Where would the team have been without them?
I think one could ask that question for the whole season. They were our main creators, but also scorers. Martin had so much experience from Euroleague and still plays at a high level. Jack is up and coming and a great athlete. I hope he gets drafted tonight. I´m really proud of his season. We relied on both of them very much the whole season.
Against Bamberg you led 2-0, but they forced a game 5. Did Alba Berlin feel to comfortable?
I guess one could say that, but at the same time, Bamberg was very talented. They played together just like us and the cup win against us also brought them better together. We knew that they would be tough, because they had swept Ulm. We always stayed with them. We won one on road. We knew game 5 would be a fight and stayed together and won.
In game 5 Alba Berlin won by 31 points. 6 guys scored in double figures. Was that one of the best team efforts of the season?
Yes it was. It was hard to top that one.
The team faced a lot of adversary this season. What made the team so special in 2025-2026?
I think that besides our togetherness and toughness, we all had a chip on our shoulders including head coach Pedro Calles. His chip carried over to all of us. We all felt like we had something to prove. We all shared that feeling. Plus everyone was unselfish. All wanted to win.
I think that Pedro Calles was as good of a candidate to win coach of the year. How vital was his in game coaching especially in the playoffs?
His approach to each game was huge. His coaching was a grind for us players, but at the same time it was also very demanding mentally for the coaching staff. It was like a chess game. What could we change up each new game? But we didn´t really change so much, but we focused more on ourselves and imposed our will on them. We didn´t change anything in game 5, but just played with more energy, physicality and played our style.
Jack Kayil will probably get drafted. How did his game grow further so he can make the next step in the NBA? I knew Jack for 10 months. I saw right away that he was an incredible talent that was very athletic. The way he was a floor general for his age was very impressive. I think that his IQ really improved and scouts began to notice. His confidence and mentality also continued to grow through out the season.
How valuable was Justin Bean at both ends of the court? What did you appreciate most about his game? His energy was so big for our success and hard to match from opponents. It was really fun to play with him. His versatility is also a huge part of his game. I appreciated his rebounding the most. His knack to get key rebounds the whole season was huge.
How valuable was Norris Agbako´s presence each day in the paint? How did his game grow? He was a big tall presence no matter what. He was a hard worker with a high IQ. He had already played for Pedro before and knew his system and that helped his game. He was a great teammate.
Malte Delow has been with Alba Berlin since the youth and won titles with Franz Wagner at the youth and pro level. How valuable was he on a daily basis for your game? What could you learn from him?
Malte and I have similar games. We are both versatile. He is a very hard worker that was always in the gym. He loves basketball. I learned a better feel for the game and soaked up some of his IQ as well.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malte Delow? We never really went 1-1, but I would call it a tie.
Let´s talk about your game. You averaged 6/2/1 in 19 minutes. How content with your effort?
I think I played my role well. I was content with my season. I wasn´t always so proud how I played, but I had some good games. I would like to be more consistent in the future.
You averaged 4 minutes more than in Bonn. How was your role different this season? My role was pretty similar to Bonn. I was that guy that did a bit of all and is a solid defender.
How did you see your game grow further this season with Alba Berlin? I think that my IQ really profited being around so many Euroleague guys. My IQ had always been decent, but I think it rose another level this season.
What was your favorite personal game of the season? Game 5 in Munich.
Who was the toughest player that you faced this season? Andi Obst without question.
What is the next step for you? Will you remain with Alba Berlin? I will remain with Alba Berlin.
How do you rate the Giannis trade to Miami? I´m very excited. It will be interested to see how they play.
Who will reach the World Cup soccer final and win it? USA-Germany and USA will win.
Nelson Okafor (202-PF-2003, agency: PEPI SPORT) is a 23 year old 202cm forward that will play the 2026-2027 season with the Uni Baskets Munster. He recently completed his season with the SV Fellbach Flashers (Pro B) averaging 9,8ppg, 5,2rpg, 1,0apg and 1,0spg. He spent 2 seasons with pro A team Nurnberg Falcons playing 43 games. He also played in Italy with Farnese Pallacanestro Campli (Italy-Serie C) and Dinamo Basket Brindisi (Italy-Serie C). He began his basketball career with Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg U19 team (NBBL). He spoke togermanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Nelson for talking to germanhoops.com. When did you discover basketball and when did it become your love? I started to play ball when I was around 10 Years old. At that time I was doing lot of different sports like soccer and track & field. I was actually good at track but I decided that Basketball was my sport. From that moment on the whole journey started.
What basketball players were your early inspirations? Who did you like to watch and emulate?
I didn’t watch that much sports when I was younger. I started watching basketball when I was around 15. I was really into watching BBL games from Ludwigsburg. They had a player on the roster named Jon Brockman. I really liked the way he played and his physicality. Right now, I like to watch players like Naz Reid and Chris Bosh.
You played with the MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg youth program from 2019-2021. How do you remember those years? How valuable was it for your early basketball development despite Covid? I remember those days like they were yesterday. Every year was really important because I learned a lot from that program that I can still apply to my game today. We always had a stacked roster with very good players, so the competition was always there. On top of that, you could learn something from everyone, so I would say it was a great period in my life.
How key were the two David coaches with Mccray and Gale? How did they help you best with your early basketball development? They were probably two of the most important coaches I ever had. Like I said before, they taught me a lot when I was younger. During my first NBBL season, I didn’t get much playing time because we had a very talented roster. But in my last seasons, I improved a lot in my game and learned many new things from them. I’m really thankful that I had the opportunity to play for them.
You were teammates with a young Ariel Huckporti. How do you remember him as a young player? Did you always know that he would reach the NBA?
I remember a lot of situations with him. We were in the same school class, so we shared many funny moments together. In practice and in games, he already had a big impact as a young player.
The Ludwigbsurg NBBL team had so many talented players in those 2 years. Was there a player besides a Hukporti that impaced you most? I personally would say Dejan Bruce impacted me the most when he was on our team. He really impressed me with his physicality and basketball IQ. We played the same position, so we had some really good battles in practice.
In your second season with NBBL team Ludwigsburg you averaged 11.0ppg, 5.7rpg in 3 games. You only played 3 games. Do you sometimes wonder how your development may have been that season with a full slate of games?
I do believe I would have had a different outcome if I had been able to play a full season in the NBBL. Because of the injury, I only played 3 games and never really had the chance to show what I’m capable of.
You then made the very uncharacteristic move and went to Italy to play for :Farnese Pallacanestro Campli (Italy-Serie C and Dinamo Basket Brindisi (Italy-Serie C). Why did you make that move? I made that move because I wanted to try something new. I had spent my whole life in Ludwigsburg and wanted to experience something different. At that moment, I also didn’t have any better options to play professionally.
How was Italy for you? How did your game grow there? It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Great people and great guys. I was lucky to learn a completely different playing style with a really good team. We even made the championship and got promoted to Serie B
You then made the jump to the Nuernberg Falcons BC (ProA) averaging 2.6ppg, 1.9rpg and 2.0ppg, 1.6rpg. You averaged 10 and 11 minutes per season. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there?
To be honest, I don’t think so. The season started pretty well for me personally, but it turned around very fast for both me and the team. In my first season we had two big losing streaks (8 in a row and 9 in a row). In my second season I thought maybe it would change and that I could prove myself better, but then our coach got fired. I also didn’t fit into the playing style of our new coach. So basically, I was just in a bad situation.
How valuable was it for your game having a veteran like German Julius Wolf? How did he help your game best? Yes, it did. Not only personally, but also for the whole team. He gave us a lot of tips and showed us how we could execute better on both offense and defense. I believe it’s always good to have an experienced guy on the team, especially for rookies like me.
Your second season was cut short. How would you describe your 2 years in Nurnberg? What positives could you get from the experience?
Of course, it was a great experience. I came from Italy and had the chance to play in Pro A. I was able to learn a lot of new things and work on my game, even though we had two bad seasons. On top of that, I had the advantage of getting experience playing in Pro A at a young age something not everybody gets the chance to do.
This season you took a step back and joined Pro B team SV Fellbach Flashers. You had your break out season. How refreshing has this season been for you on and off the court?
It was a big change for me. Going from being a bench player for the starting 5 to getting major minutes is a huge difference. I personally think it’s important for me to play more, because sitting on the bench the whole time is not good for young players. There’s no way I can improve by doing that.
How blessed have you been to have had a head coach like Kris Borisov? He seemed to believe in you from the start.
It is great. He told me from the beginning what my role was going to be on this team, and I think I handled it well. It was a challenge for me, but I could handle it.at you would have a key role on the team?
You had many great games. What would you classify as your favorite own game this season?
Probably the Game against Leitershofen at their Gym. There was already tension between us and theri team/fans. The gym was packed too and I had a great Game there too.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Mark Golder?
Me.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 202cm forward. You’re a player that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game incorporate? I would say defending all positions and being physical. Specially being physical helped me a lot on different kind of moments.
You don´t shoot many three´s. Is the three ball something you want to incorporate more into your game?
Yes definitely. It would help me also get better 1vs1 situations. I strongly believe if I have more situations where I can shoot it, my percentage will be good enough to respect it.
How valuable is your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I think my defense is pretty okay to good. Coaches could switch with me from 1 to 5 so this was never an problem for me. My Goal is to be more a rim protector.
On what areas of your game are you still working on so you can continue to improve your game? I’m working right now on my shooting and Ballhandling.
Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the floor that reached the NBA or Euroleague? Probably its Ariel Hukporti when I played\practiced Nbbl with him.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Sam Mackiw – Farnese Campli
Caio Palmeri – Farnese Campli
Bautista Fouce- Dinamo Brindisi
Alfonso Di ianni- Dinamo Brindisi
Courtney Alexander- Nürnberg Falcons
Please name your personal NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore of 4 best players ever for each?
For the NBA, I’ll go with LeBron James, Wilt, Kobe and Steph. In the German league, I go with Tommy Kuhse, John Bryant, Per Günther and Andreas Obst. For the EuroLeague, I don’t have a Mount Rushmore. There are probably many more players that I could name, but these are the ones that stick out in my head.
German Hoops 