football

Versatile Marcus Azor(Raiffeisen Flyers Wels) Will Play Another Year In Austria To Help Him Make The Next Step To A Higher League

Marcus Azor (188-G-2000, college: UMass Dartmouth) is a 25 year old 188cm guard that will be playing his fourth pro season and first with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL). Last season he played with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.5%. He palyed the 2023-2024 season with Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.2%. He played his rookie season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-1Liga): averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 63.6%. He began his basketball career at Brockton high school and then played at UMass (NCAA) from 2018-2022 and averaged 17.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 7.9apg, 2.5spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 68.5% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Marcus for talking to germanhoops.com. You just completed your third pro season and first with the BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL). Did you go on any trip in Europe or did you return back home to Boston?

I Stayed for a bit in Austria then went back to Boston in May.

How blessed are you to be playing overseas. Not many former Division 3 players play at the level that you have played at. Do you pinch yourself each day reminding you about your luck?

It’s a huge blessing to be playing overseas knowing the percentage of making it professional from college. I wouldn’t say I’d pinch myself reminding me about my luck but view it as a reminder how far my hard work and dedication has taken me from past years and the years to come.

You reached the playoffs and lost a tough 4 game series to BBC Nord. You lost game 4 79-76. How tough was that loss and what was key for losing the series?

The game was tough because we had fought down to the wire to lose to such a shot like that hurts a lot. I think losing game one at home was key for losing the series because that’s supposed to be the opening game to show the energy that we will bring as well as us having the best home record in the league that’s just two ways we don’t want to lose a game like that.

You were close to a triple double in game 4. Did it bring back memories to your dominant senior year in the NCAA 3 where you achieved 5 triple doubles?

I wouldn’t say it brought back memories at that moment because of the circumstances of that game. I take it as I left off on that note that I want to get back into that way and impact the game best I can

You averaged 11.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.5%. How content were you with your personal season?

I was pretty content with it from the ups and down that had came with the season but definitely can do better and more room for improvements

You decided to remain another year with Wels. Is getting a second season of experience and upping your stats a goal for the future of reaching higher leagues?

I discussed it with the people around me and felt I made a right step in development here and that another year where really take me to the next step in my career in stats and higher leagues.

How blessed are you to have Drew Kelso of One Motive Sports working as your agent? What have you appreciated most about him?

Very much blessed to have the One Motive Sports around and working for me. I appreciate the trust and support they have for me and the belief in my basketball abilities to keep playing the game at a high level.

Let´s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 188cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I was to compare my game to an NBA player I think Dejaunte Murray would best fit the description because of how he plays both sides of the ball and uses his length and athleticism to his advantages.

You’re a guy that can fill the stat sheet with ease. Was versatility always in your game or did you develop that at The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (NCAA3)?

It was always in my game but it got better during college because D3 your not going to have much real centers so every position has to put more effort into the rebounding and defense than usual unless we was to have a shot clocking 7 footer.

What other strengths does your game have? Coach Brian Baptiste said that “The best thing yo do is get into gaps and create things for himself and for his teammates.

My hand speed on steals is another strength I have. I can get many steals on ball and in passing lanes

How do you see the development of your three pointer? You eclipsed the 40% mark twice in the NCAA 3, but as a pro hasn´t reached it again?

Numbers don’t show it, I’d say this year was my best shooting year just with the amount I have taken because at UMass I wasn’t taking that much.

You have always been a very aggressive defender. How would you describe your defensive game at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I have length to be disruptive in passing lanes and on ball. Being a guard in Europe I’m going to always have to be a hard nosed guard and pick up full court majority of the game.

On what area of your game are you working on most this summer so you can continue to improve your game?

This summer I’m really keying on shooting off the dribble tweaked my shot during the season so I got to get up a lot of reps to get accustomed to it

You played with 2 Germans this season Radii Caisin and Christian Von Fintel. Talk about each player and what you appreciated most about each guys game?

Those are two great guys I’m glad I got to share the court with. Chris is a great captain on and off the court and always makes sure I’m good. Radii is a hard worker who’s always in the gym and there was time I would try to beat him to the gym to get shots up early mornings. Both of their competitiveness and dedication is unmatched and something I will always appreciate.

In 2023-2024 you played with the Randers Cimbria Basketball (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 9.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 78.2%. The team had many ups and downs that season. What did you learn about yourself that season?

I learned a lot from that year. The one thing I take away most is just to keep the main the main thing and never try to fit in

You were teammates with Vin Baker Jr. What kind of an experience was it playing with him? Did he tell any nice stories about his dad?

It was a great time playing with him he became a brother to me from the time we spent playing together. He has many stories about his dad he would tell me about Y

ou played your rookie season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-1Liga) averaging 10.1ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 63.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call was that there’s hoopers everywhere in the world. Of course I knew that watching basketball but for my first time playing in Europe to see there was some Polish players getting 20-25pts with ease.

You were the only American on the team and you helped the team win the league title. What was so special about this group of guys?

That group was like family, there was no problem off or on the court with each other and there was so much veterans that had played in the top league and they shared so much of their knowledge with me.

Did you have a special role. You only averaged 18 minutes per game and not the usual more that Americans will get?

That league had a rule where an American can be on the court as long as 24yr old or younger Polish player was on the court and our team were mostly veterans so it was hard for line ups to be made in some games with having a younger player on the court with me being young as well.

You played at the The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (NCAA3) from 2018-2022 and improved your points, rebounds and assists average each season. As a senior you averaged an amazing 17.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 7.9apg, 2.5spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 68.5%How did your game grow especially as a senior?

Just grew all around from the work I would put in with the professionals and d1 players from back home during the summer.

What memories do you have of winning the 2021 LEC title and winning the MVP title`?

The whole season in general was the best memory because it was during Covid so we all had to make sacrifices and deal with the testing stuff just to compete to win

You had so many great games like when you reached 1000 points with a break away dunk against Western Connecticut, But what was your favorite game in the NCAA 3?

My favorite game was first round in the NVAA tournament vs Emerson. It was one of the greatest comebacks I’ve been a part of. We were down 20 with 3 minutes and I think I had 4pt in the first half then finished with 27.

How did head coach Brian Baptiste groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He helped me a lot with the professional mindset approach with being at a D3 school there’s not the same resources and rebounders as some d1 schools hve, that it’s up to me to put in the work with whatever schedule I have.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dhalyn Sanders-Dyer?

Haha I think we’re tied up

Who has been the toughest player that you have faced in your lifetime that reached the NBA?

Tremont Waters

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

It’s hard for me to choose 5. I played with a lot of great guys.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, LeBron, Kobe, Kareem, Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Jordan my Goat

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

No I didn’t not watch the sequel but I have heard that from others that it should’ve been left alone.

Thanks Marcus for the chat.

Viktor Ziring Hasn´t Reached His Full Potential Yet And Is Ready For A New Challenge In The Pro A With The Bayer Giants Leverkusen

Pic credit: Frank Fankhauser

Viktor Ziring (187-SG-1998) is a 27 year old 187c guard that began last season with Giessen and then moved to the bayer Giants Leverkusen helping them win the Pro b title averaging 8.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 64.3%. he began his career with the Giessen Pointers and Giessen 46ers youth teams and then played 3 seasons with Pro B team Iserlohn Kangaroos playing 58 games. He then played 2 seasons with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos Second Team (ProB) and in 23-24 played with the EN Baskets Schwelm (ProB) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 53.7%He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Viktor for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. Your averaged 8/2/1 this season with Leverkusen and shot 43% from outside. How content were you with your season with Leverkusen?

I think I contributed to a great Leverkusen season. At the same time there is always room for improvement. I don’t think that I reached my full potential as a player yet. I think I showed that I can be a dangerous threat from the outside this season. However, I know I can also be a better playmaker for others and I can´t only rely on my three – point shot. All in all, I happy with my season, but next season I want to be even better.

Leverkusen had a great guard rotation with Brach, you, Kahl and Djordevic. What exactly was your role on the team?

I think my role was to come off the bench and first and foremost keep the energy high. Depending on how the games where going my role would change. Sometimes it was about leading the second group and organizing the game. Then in other games I might need to score more. Or sometimes it was just to give the other guys who were in a great rhythm that day a breather. My personal goal was always to play great defense first and then let the game come to me. Our coaches did a great job coaching us during the games, so like I said there would be different roles in different games.

You had many great games with Leverkusen like scoring 18 points against Schwelm and Paderborn. What was your favorite game with Leverkusen?

My favorite game was the second semi-final game in Bernau. We were down 20 in the first quarter and we made a huge comeback over the whole game to secure promotion to ProA. I think I gave the team a huge energy boost when I subbed in and really made some impact plays throughout that game. However, I also really enjoyed the game against Paderborn, because it was my first home game in Leverkusen and it felt really good to be appreciated by the fans this quick after I arrived here.

What is the next step for you? Will you remain with Leverkusen?

Yes I will stay with Leverkusen next season.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Sebastian Brach?

I think if I am honest Manni will probably win. I am not really the best 1 on 1 player. But it would be close.

You began the season with Giessen averaging 2,1ppg in 7.9 minutes per game. Do you feel like you got a fair chance?

Looking back at the situation in Giessen it is difficult to say if it was a fair chance or not. They had a really stacked guard rotation with only import ProA veterans. For me was most important that during my time in Giessen I kept working hard, tried to learn as much as possible from the other players and at the end of the day leave everything on the court that I had. The rest was not in my own hands.

How vital was it for your game going up against talented American guards Kyle Catlin and Kevin Mcclain? How did they make you better?

Kyle was like a big brother to me throughout the whole season. Already in pre-season we noticed quickly that we have a similar work ethic and just like to be in the gym and work on our game. Going up against him almost every day in practice helped my improvement a lot. He also gave me lots of advice in many different aspects which I appreciate a lot. From Kevin I also tried to learn a lot. Going up against him in practice was sometimes really challenging because on offense he has so many weapons. I tried to pick up some of his movements. Also his work ethic was really high, so I spent lots of extra hours with him in the gym as well.

You began your career with Giessen. Despite having to leave this season, will Giessen always be your home? How special is the organization?

I am originally from Giessen. So yes Giessen will always be my home in some way. It was a great honor and a dream come true to play for this club. Unfortunately, in sports not all dreams that become true stay like a dream. So it was difficult, but right to leave Giessen during the season.

You played in your youth with Lucas Mayer. Have you followed his career? He has evolved into a solid Pro A player. Is he in a way also a like a role model?

I am really happy for Lucas and the way things turned out for him. He is a great player and an even better guy. I hope he keeps progressing and I wish him all the best. To say he is a role model would be a little bit too much. Everybody has his own path and I am happy to see him during the summer in Giessen and next season.

You then played 3 seasons with Iserlohn where you played 58 Pro B games but never averaged more than 2,0ppg. How tough were these years? Did you feel like you would get a chance after every season ended?

My first 3 years in Iserlohn were filled with lots of learning experiences on and off the court. Looking back these years were definitely tough and challenging, because things didn’t turn out the way that I expected them to. But I am really grateful for all of these 3 seasons, because I met so many people like Donte, Chris, Nikita, Elijah and so many that the list would be too long now. On court, things didn’t go my way, but that is all part of the journey.

Do you feel like the Dahmen and Schwarz brothers were the reason you played so little? Despite that I´m sure the daily battles in practice made you better over the years?

I approached every practice during that time like I do today. Work hard and give everything I got. And that’s why I continuously improved. During that time the Dahmen and Schwarz brothers were ahead of me in the rotation and I had to accept that.

You had some great teammates in Iserlohn with Elijah Allen, Nikita Kharchenkov and Chris Frazier just to name a few. Was there a player that had a big impact on you in those 3 years?

Like you said, I met so many great teammates and a lot of them had an impact on me. However, the teammates I bonded with the most in these 3 years are Chris, Elijah and Donte. I am happy that I can call all these guys not just teammates but also friends. All of them had a big impact on me, because they were all trying to help me and make me a better player. Elijah for example still goes in the gym with me during the summer and works out with me. Chris and I talk a lot and he still gives me advice. Donte and I became teammates again and had a great chemistry, because we knew each other before.

You then returned back to Giessen. The first season was tough with Covid but in your second season you averaged 6.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 70.6%. How do you remember that season? You were reunited again with Donte Nicholas?

The second season back in Giessen with the Rackelos was really cool. I finally got a bigger chance to play on the ProB level. At the same time even though I wasn’t a double license player anymore I got the chance to practice most of the time with the BBL team. I really have to say thank you to Pete Strobl for this chance, because he allowed me to practice with them daily and showed me a completely new level on how to think about basketball and the IQ aspect of the game. After the season, I was happy that I could finally play more minutes and prove myself more. I knew I still had lots of work to do, but I finally felt like I had shown that I could be a useful player on this level.

You then played a season with the EN Baskets Schwelm averaging 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 53.7%. There you were reunited with Chris Frazier. You lost a tough 3 game palyoff series against Koblenz. What memories do you have of that season?

I mostly have good memories on that season in Schwelm. It was really cool to play with Chris again. However, I remember that we underperformed that season as a team and we had lots of injuries. If you just look at the roster with Chris and CJ and the import we had at the beginning of the season as our leaders, you would expect us to most likely finish in the top 5. I believe we kind of redeemed ourselves a little bit for really challenging Koblenz in the first round of the playoffs in pushing the series to 3 games, but overall I think we as a team never reached our full potential that season. For me personally, it was a really important season because I also gained more responsibility over time.

Last season you returned to Iserlohn averaging 11.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.8apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 75.0%. How good did it feel to return and have such a great season?

Personally that was my best season so far and I am proud that I developed into a player who can have an impact on the game. However, we as a team missed the playoffs which to me is always more important than individual stats. I am very grateful that I got the chance to play for Dennis Shirvan and Toni Prostran who both helped me a lot in my personal development as a person and player during this difficult season.

You saw a raw Malick Kordel who had his Pro B break through in Frankfurt this season and will play in the NCAA now. How good is he? Did you already see signs last season that he has a big future?

Malik is a natural force. If he keeps working hard and stays focused on the important things in basketball he really has no limits. The things he can do with his athleticism and height are incredible. I tried to talk a lot to him about work ethic and staying humble and hungry. I hope he stays healthy and if he keeps working hard we will see where ends up.

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

Isaiah Hartenstein.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Robin Benzing

Donte Nicholas

Elijah Allen

Chris Fraizer

Kyle Castlin

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

NBA: Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Steph Curry

Euro: Milos Teodosic, Mike James, Vassilis Spanoulis, Facundo Campazzo

German: Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Andi Obst, Franz Wagner

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Viktor for the chat.

Ivan Kharchenkov´s Fondest moments With Nicolas Kodjoe Were Winning The U-18 Euro Gold And NBBL title With FC Bayern Munich

Even if Ivan Kharchenkov (198-SG-2006) and Nicholas Kodjoe´s basketball paths now will most likely not cross again as teammates, they will always be linked in that their dads are well known public figures. Papa Kharchenkov Alexander was a well known professional basketball player that won the World Cup in 1974 over USA while papa Kodjoe Boris is a well known actor in Hollywood whom played in tv series Seattle Firefighters and Code Black. Even if Ivan and Nicolas won the U-16 and U-18 Euro titles in 2022 and 2024, they only played this season together with FC Bayern Munich. Ivan mostly was with the easyCredit BBL team showcasing his incredible skills in the BBL and Euroleague, but at times helped out playing 3 Pro B games and 2 NBBL games together with Kodjoe. They played their last game together winning the 2025 NBBL (U-19) title in Berlin. Ivan will begin a new challenge in USA playing for the University of Arizona (NCAA) with the hopes of being a first round NBA Draft pick in 2026. In all they won 3 titles together. “My fondest moments with Nicholas were winning the U-18 Euro in 2023 and the 2025 NBBL title in Berlin”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Kodjoe recently added a new medal to his collection helping Germany win the silver medal at the U-19 World Cup. Teammate Kharchenkov has maintained an eye on his development this past season. “I´m proud of his achievement. He was a good role player for Germany. He brought important energy to the team. He accepted his role to the fullest. Not every player can have the go to guy role or that of their NBBL team. I didn´t play so much with him with FC Bayern Munich. I played more with him with the youth national teams. He has made a big development. Now he needs to focus on details”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov.

The 2022 U-16 Eurochampion Kharchenkov was very busy the last few months especially in the winning department as he finally won his first NBBL title on his last try and also won his second easyCredit BBL crown in a row. Of course, he wanted to cap of the 2024-2025 season with a medal at the U-19 World Cup, but didn´t play on account of insurance reasons. “ It was tough not being there, but I quickly got it out of my mind. I didn´t want to be mad. I would have liked to have played against USA”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. In the first 6 games, team Germany played very consistently and clearly showed that they didn´t even need an Ivan Khrachenkov. “Yes they didn´t need me. I´m very proud of the team. They compensated my loss well. They played very concentrated. They had a tough opponent with USA. Team USA was strong and you have to accept the loss. They won the silver and were the second best team in world. They showed it. They stepped up as a team. ”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. You have to wonder how well team Germany would have faired against Team USA had Kharchenkov been in the lineup? “ That is hard to say. I definitely could of helped them”, said Ivan Kharchenkov.

The 3 level scorer Kharchenkov who hasn´t really played teammate Christian Anderson in 1-1 and would always take himself in a game over anyone else saw some of his teammates ball in the easyCredit BBL and seen their development especially Hannes Steinbach who has made massive steps in his game in the last 2 years. The giant will play at Washington (NCAA) in 2025-2026 and was the best center at the U-19 World Cup averaging 17.4ppg, Reb-2 (13.0rpg), 2.0apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 72.1%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 77.8%. “He has made big strides. I can remember before the U-18 Euro in 2023, he was the third center behind Johan Grunloh and Ben Defty. If you look where he is now and where he was 2 years ago, it is amazing”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Another player that also had a super U-19 tournament was Christian Anderson averaging 17.3ppg, 4.9rpg, Assists-2 (6.6apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 71.4% and was named to the first team just Like Steinbach. Does he have the skill set for a possible NBA career down the road? “Yes he could. He needs to work on his defense and physicality. He still gets bullied on the court”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. Kharchenkov would really have liked to have played in the Gold Medal game against USA, but in a few months he will see some of the best players in the NCAA. Then he will be able to keep assessing better how far USA and Germany are apart in the U-19 skill level. “I think if you look at the 2 rosters at the U-19 World Cup, there aren´t many differences, but if you take the 2 birth years of 2006 then there is a big difference. Basketball is a big tradition in USA. It is like soccer in Germany”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. The birth year 2006 had so much success in the last 3 years, but what does the future hold for German basketball? There is a lot of new talent coming up in the next years, but can a unique basketball year like 2006 come again in the next years and have as much success? “We have made strides the last years having success. The expectations are very high for the age groups after. Disappointment could happen in the next years”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. Kharchenkov made his mark in the youth ranks and now it´s time for new faces to keep the winning torch going.

Viktor Ziring Came In Midseason Giving The Bayer Giants Leverkusen More Depth And Adding To The Winning Culture

Pic credit: Frank Frankhauser

Viktor Ziring (187-SG-1998) is a 27 year old 187cm guard that began last season with Giessen and then moved to the bayer Giants Leverkusen helping them win the Pro b title averaging 8.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 64.3%. he began his career with the Giessen Pointers and Giessen 46ers youth teams and then played 3 seasons with Pro B team Iserlohn Kangaroos playing 56 games. He then played 2 seasons with the Depant Giessen 46ers Rackelos Second Team (ProB) and in 23-24 played with the EN Baskets Schwelm (ProB) averaging 8.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 35.2%, FT: 53.7%He spoke to german hoops.com about the magical 2024-2025 Leverksuen season.

Congrats Viktor on winning the Pro B title with Leverkusen. How does it feel coming in midseason from Giessen and winning the title?

It´s a great feeling. I never been in a situation like this before, where I changed teams midseason, but it was definitely worth it. It was a difficult step to leave my family and hometown during the season, but in the end it all worked out. This is my first title since I play on this level, so I will always remember this special season.

What a crazy season it was for you. In the first months you were focused on the Pro A with Giessen and then help win the Pro B title. How special was it accepting a role and succeeding?

It was very special. I personally think I did a good job adjusting quickly to my new role in Leverkusen. I am just happy that I could help the team and didn’t stop the development, because they were already rolling before I got here. Despite that I think in the end I played an important role in giving the team more depth and winning the title as group.

You never lost a game with Leverkusen. What kind of a feeling is it never losing a game in a season?

That is really crazy. It really is an addicting feeling. You feel so great after every game. On the other hand, you know it won´t stay like this for forever, so you just keep working hard to extend that run as long as possible. That we pulled it off, to no lose a game since I got here, is just an incredible feeling.

Did you feel a special winning culture when you arrived in Leverkusen? How do you remember that first practice`?

There was definitely already a winning culture here when I arrived. The guys had only lost one game all season and I could tell from the start that they were super focused on winning. My first practice was rather easy because it was the day before game day, but even during this easier practice I could already see that everyone was super focused and locked in.

The team went 6-0 in the playoffs. What was key in winning the Pro B title? How big was the mental factor going into every game? Do you feel like the opponent was at times intimidated before the jump ball?

The key to winning the title was our defense. Every player on this team was a willing defender. That is also something I never witnessed in all of the other teams I played with so far. It was always a “our defense will win us this game” mindset. In general I had the feeling the whole team believed if we do our job nobody can beat us in this league. We can only beat ourselves. To be honest I don’t know if opponents were intimidated or not. I didn’t really pay attention to thoughts like this, because I was so focused on us and what we had to do.

How do you remember the celebration in Leverkusen after the game 2 win over Wolmirstedt? What was your fondest moment during the celebration?

The celebration on the court was just overwhelming for me. So many emotions, but at the end it was just pure happiness. A moment I will always remember was after the ceremony. All of a sudden everybody was on the court. And in the middle of all that celebrating I got the trophy. The first thing I did was go to my parents to finally celebrate with them. They supported me so much during this whole journey and they have always been there for me. To raise a trophy with them after all the hard work and support they put in was my favorite moment.

What was it like playing for 2 legends like Mike Koch and Hansi Gnad? What does each guy give to the players that helps them perform at the highest level?

It is kind of surreal for me. I never thought I would get the chance to be coached by 2 legends like this. I really try every day to pick up as much as possible from them. Obviously both know what they are talking about when it comes to basketball. I tried to ask as many questions as possible, get as many extra workouts in with them as I could. And they were always ready to work with me. They not only give you great advice or put effort in to make you a better player, but they also give you so much confidence. That was for me the biggest key. If these 2 say you can do something you believe it.

How vital was Donte Nicholas? Is he the ultimate teammate and Mr. versatile? You were already teammates with him in Iserlohn

Without Donte we wouldn’t be where we are now. I know him now for so long and joked around with him about that he is a serious contender for being the ProB GOAT. He really does everything on the court. In addition to that he is just a great teammate off the court as well.

How vital was Dennis Heinzman, the anchor on defense? How many games were won by his play at both ends of the court?

Dennis changes the whole game. When he is in the game our defense is just next level. Like you said he really is the anchor on defense, but at the same time he was just a force offensively and when it comes to rebounding on both ends. I think him and Donte both deserve to be MVP this season because it doesn’t matter on which team you put these guys they will turn almost any team into a contender.

How important was glue guy CJ Oldham? He does so much on defense, does little things not seen on the stat sheet and is a great leader. What was his biggest attribute for the title?

CJ really was a X-factor. He does all the things you don’t see in the stats. He can guard every position, he communicates a lot, he is a great teammate. He really is the ultimate glue guy and his great work ethic motivated me every day to do more. I believe without CJ it would be very difficult to play such a season because he always did what the team needed from him and there aren’t many players who will accept that role like he did.

What have you appreciated most about Sebastian Brach on the court? How did you like sharing the court with him?

Playing with Manni was very cool. He really made a big step this season. I can´t even say what I appreciated the most about playing with him because he does so many things well. He can score, gets everyone involved and plays great defense. It really was a lot of fun playing with him.

How valuable has the experience of Luca Kahl been and what do you appreciate most about his game?

Luca was super important for this team. His experience that he brought from all his ProA years contributed a lot to the winning culture. What I appreciate most about Luca besides all his basketball skills is his leadership. He holds everyone accountable at all times and at the same time always leads by example. This also translates on the court. He plays with a certain calmness which helped the team to get organized and not to be in a rush in important moments. On defense he is always ready to defend the best guard of the opponent team.

Thanks Viktor for the chat.

Risto Vasiljevic Has Had Moments In His Career Where He Held His Own Against Deni Avdija And Ariel Hukporti

pic credit: Fiba

Risto Vasiljevic (195-SG-2001) is a 24 year old 195cm shooting guard that helped TV Langen win the 2025 South West Regionalliga title averaging 14/471 stats. He began his basketball career with BC Darmstadt and then played with the Frankfurt Skyliners youth teams and played with the Frankfurt Pro B team. He then played a season with the MLP Academics playing 18 games averaging 1,4ppg. He then returned to Frankfurt and played with the Juniors averaging 5.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 64.3%. He then moved to TV Langen (Regionalliga) and played 2 seasons avergaing 15,oppg and 3,0rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

You began your basketball career at BC Darmstadt. What memories do you have of the young years in your career?

BC Darmstadt is where it all started for many of us. It’s the place where we first discovered our passion for the game. Back in our U14 days, we had an exceptional team with players like Maxi Begue, Len Schormann, Leon Fertig, Niklas Kessler, Leon Kakarigji, Eren Küpeli, Tim-David Schrädt, Isaac Obanor, and several others whose names I may have forgotten.

With that group, we experienced a great deal of success throughout our entire youth basketball journey. In test games, we beat the Hessenkader by 30 points. Even later, when we transitioned to Frankfurt, many of us from the Darmstadt team were still together, reaching the JBBL finals. We also won the tournament in Vienna as a team and shared countless great moments that we all still remember fondly. Our coaches, Tobias Willmesmeier and Carsten Schönhagel, played a key role in shaping us and making that time so memorable.

That’s why my brother and I now coach the U12 and U14 teams at BC Darmstadt, We want to pass on that same joy and passion for basketball to the next generation. Doing so in the very gym where I first started playing makes it all the more meaningful to me.

You then played in the Skyliners organization from 2016-2020. How do you feel did your game grow further there?

Moving to Frankfurt was a big step for me. The first year was a very instructive period. I played with the older age group, which had just won the U14 national championship, and that experience really helped me grow as a player. Olaf and Dubi are well-established figures in the JBBL. They know exactly how to guide and develop a team during this crucial stage.

The opportunity to play on multiple teams while also being connected to the professional squad was extremely valuable for me. Sebastian Gleim had developed a very strong and well-structured program. Over the years, I had to take on different roles in various teams. I always embraced those roles and used them as a chance to grow. At some point during that period, I gained confidence in my shot and began to develop it into a real strength. Over time, it became the foundation of my playing style.

Looking back, I have very positive memories of my time in Frankfurt. It was a formative period in my life. We trained hard, constantly pushed each other, and supported one another. The team spirit remained strong throughout the years, and I had the chance to develop both on and off the court.

You played in the 2017 JBBL final. What memories do you have of that run?

The team that year was particularly interesting because we had a deep roster with a wide range of players, each with different playing styles and personalities. That gave us a lot of versatility. Olaf and Dubi appointed me as team captain that season, and I took that responsibility seriously. Looking back, I think I served the role well as a glue guy who held things together. We had a strong team and ended up winning tournaments in both Lund and Vienna.

Over the course of two JBBL seasons, we didn’t lose a single home game! Something I’m still very proud of. Unfortunately, we fell short in the final against Alba. They were more prepared that day, and we simply didn’t have our best performance. That loss still stings. We had won the JBBL championship the year before and were determined to defend the title, which made it even harder to accept.

You were a solid player in the JBBL. Was having guys like Len Schoormann and Maxim Begue a blessing in disguise as there seemed to be more focus on their games?

I was able to learn a lot from Maxi, especially in the early stages. At the time, he was a step ahead of everyone else and one of the best players in Germany. Playing alongside him gave me confidence, knowing that we had someone like him on our team. He was always encouraging and genuinely happy to see the rest of us improve. What came naturally to him eventually became second nature for the whole team, and that helped all of us grow.

Len’s physicality in the JBBL was clearly above average and a huge asset for our team. Seeing what he’s accomplishing now in the BBL makes me really happy for him.

I don’t think any team particularly enjoyed playing against us back then. Being the team captain of that group is something I’m truly proud of.

What memories do you have of Isaac Bonga? He was on the NBBL team. Did you ever practice with him?

At that time, Bonga was already mainly involved with the BBL team, so unfortunately I didn’t have much direct contact with him. I did train with him once, but beyond that, I can’t say much. He’s had a great season with Partizan, and I really hope he continues like that.

You scored 6 points in 10 minutes against Maccabi Tel Aviv as future NBA player Deni Avdija exploded for 30 points. What memories do you have of that game?

Yes, that was at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament in Munich. Unfortunately, we lost that game, so I don’t have the most positive memory of it. Deni Avdija played incredibly well that day. He scored 30 points with a level of ease that I’ve rarely seen before.

In the 19-20 season Covid came. Do you feel like had Covid not came you would have remained in Frankfurt or was Heidelberg then the best option?

No, I don’t think I would have stayed in Frankfurt. After five years in the youth program, it felt like the right time to look for a new challenge, learn something new, and get to know a different place. I also don’t think I would have had the chance to really play and grow in Frankfurt’s ProB team back then.

That’s why Heidelberg was the best choice for me at the time. Especially during the COVID period, when many things were uncertain, it was good to be with Frenki Ignjatovic in Heidelberg. I already knew him, and that gave me a sense of security.

You scored 20 points against Ludwigsburg in an NBBL game and future NBA player Ariel Huckporti had a 24/12 game. What memories do you have of that game and how does it feel knowing you and him were the best players on the court?

Yes, I remember that game very well. We were dealing with injuries, and I knew I had to step up and take on more responsibility in offense. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to win the game.

Ariel and Ludwigsburg had a strong team and played really well.

It’s unfortunate that the season was cut short because of COVID. We had a solid group, and I would have really liked to see how far we could have gone that year.

You then made a big jump to the MLP Academics. You only played 18 Pro A games. You only averaged 3,5 minutes. Was this move to early?

I do think it was a bit too early for me at that time to get minutes in the Pro A. However, that year as a professional still helped me a lot. Training twice a day with the pros gave me valuable experience. I was by far the youngest player on the roster, and I was able to learn a great deal from that environment.

What positives did you get from the experience. Was there a teammate that had the biggest impact on you? Maybe a Shy Ely?

That was my first full season training with a professional senior team and not just any team, but a ProA team with clear ambitions for promotion.

As the youngest player on the roster, I had the chance to learn something from everyone. I’m really grateful for how Coach Frenki integrated me into the practices and for the way my teammates welcomed me. Over time, I gained more and more confidence. I also built a strong relationship with Albin, our assistant coach, and Serena, our athletic trainer. They constantly encouraged me, which meant a lot.

It was also my first time living away from home, which was a completely new experience for me.

The team was built with the goal of moving up a league, and for a young player like me, there was something to learn from each teammate. I tried to observe and absorb as much as I could.

Of course, I have to mention Shy Ely. He’s without a doubt the best player I’ve ever played with. His work ethic and the way he executed every drill perfectly really left a lasting impression on me.

I’m really grateful to have had that experience in Heidelberg.

You then returned to Frankfurt in the 21-22. Season and averaged only 5.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 64.3%. Looking back now were you disappointed that you didn´t have a bigger role? You were also injured.

After we were promoted to the BBL with Heidelberg, it became even less likely that I would get any playing time. However, since there were plans to start a new professional 3×3 team in Heidelberg, the idea was that I would train with the BBL team over the winter and then transition to the 3×3 team.

At some point, though, it became clear that the 3×3 project wouldn’t happen after all. That left me with the question of whether I wanted to go through another season without any game experience.

I decided to reach out to Sepehr in Frankfurt, and I’m grateful that he welcomed me into the team. That was the first time I realized how challenging it is to join a team mid-season and find your place. Still, I’m satisfied with how the year turned out.

You then returned to Langen. Has Langen became like a second home for you?

I started training in Langen back in my U14 days. At the time, I was part of the Basketball Part-Time Academy (BTI), where we trained twice a week. Frank Müller was the head coach of the BTI back then. He came from the old school of coaching and ran incredibly tough practices, something I’m very grateful for today. That experience created a strong bond between me and the Georg-Sehring gym.

On top of that, I’ve known my teammates for many years now, so I can honestly say that Langen feels like a second home to me.

You have had some big games in the Regionalliga against Stuttgart and Lich. What has been your best game at the Regionalliga level?

If I had to choose one game, it would be the semifinal against Lich. That was one of those days where everything just seemed to click. I had never played a first half like that before. It was a lot of fun.

Who is the best player you ever played against that reached the NBA?

I think it’s pretty clear that Franz Wagner has gone the furthest by far from our age group. What he’s doing is truly exceptional. He’s already accomplished a lot, yet still has so much ahead of him.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Alvin Onyia, Maxi Begue, Leon Fertig, Calvin Schaum, Jordan Samare

Name your NBA Mount Rushmore. Your 5 best players of all-time?

Steph Curry

Nikola Jokic

Dejan Bodiroga

Michael Jordan

Lebron James

Who is your GOAT?

Milos Teodosic

Thanks Risto for the chat

The Words Don’t Ask Why It Happened To Me It Happens Already Build Your Days And Know You Will Come Back Stronger From TJ Shorts Helped Terrell Harris Immensely In Comeback

That a player contacts me out of the blue for some media exposure is nothing new. It happens every once in a while and I´m always very happy to help. And why not, I have been doing it my whole basketball life overseas. One of the greatest things for me to observe is that dark horse player who began near the bottom and made it to a high level. One of those great players that I´m talking about is Terrell Harris (191-G-1993, college: Georgia Coll., agency: Players Group). He is a guy that began in the Pro b and reached the easyCredit BBL. He contacted me recently asking if I could help get his name back on the map as he missed a season due to injury and I was very happy to. I remember giving him his first interview in the summer of 2016 as a rookie in the Pro B when he balled for Iserlohn. Since then the interviews have climbed to 16 and I have seen him become a valuable role player in Germany for Rostock, Chemnitz and Crailsheim. In the last 3 years he was in Turkey and Italy making a name for himself in the very much respected Serie A-2, but last season he didn´t play because of injury. He also had flown off my radar a bit as I had last interviewed him in 2022. It was time to catch up with the Florida native who has 62 easyCredit BBL games and 60 Pro A games under his belt. Did time fly by for him in the last 3 years as it did for me? “Time has been flying. I left the Germany league 3 years ago. Trying to make a playoff run with Crailsheim. Time is undefeated and doesn’t wait for anyone. Since our last interview I played in Turkey too and Italian A2. Grew a lot as a man personally and on the court. It has been fun playing outside of Germany against different countries etc. ”, said Terrell Harris. It is never easy to get on club´s radars again after being out for a while, but he is ready and raring to go again.

Virgil Matthews, Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Terrell Harris in Frankfurt in 2021

Before talking about the toughness of his injury and his road back to recovery, I had to shoot the basketball breeze about basketball the last years before the injury. The guard who feels OKC could have a dynasty should they stay healthy played the 2022-2023 season with Buyukcekmece Basketbol (Turkey-BSL) averaging 10.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 71.4%. He missed the playoffs, but the experience was amazing. “ Turkey is one of the best leagues from top to bottom. My first time outside of the German league. The competition was great and you had to bring it every night. I mean there was a 3 way tie for 8th place that kept us out on point differential. It made me a better defender and 3 point shooter. You have to play make and read the game at that level. I think my game grew the most in the area of running combo 1 and 2. But also defending 1, 2, 3”, stressed Terrell Harris. One of his fondest memories was having an explosive 17/7/3/2 game against top Euroleague team Efes, but he also had another great memory from that season. “We beat Efes twice that season was the best part of that season. But the game at home vs Turk Telekom was a good one. Great team good players and I played my best European game up to date”, stated Terrell Harris. He then took on a another new challenge going to Italy in 2023-2024 to compete with Gruppo Mascio Treviglio (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 14.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 68.7%. He played in one of the best second divisions in Europe and had bold predictions. “Italian A2 top teams will make the BBL playoffs easy. I was surprised at the competition level. It can be its own first league. It is an extremely physical league and smart vets who know how to play the game the correct way”, warned Terrell Harris. He reached the playoffs but lost a tough game 3 to Fortitudo BO 64-63. Unfortunately, his team couldn´t make a run in the playoffs and lost in the first round. “Fortitudo was a great team. I watched a lot of basketball and have friends all over Europe. They would’ve easily made the playoffs in France, Germany, and etc. They clicking on all cylinders. We were just out of it as a team. And it showed in the playoffs”, commented Terrell Harris. His last easyCredit BBL season was in 2021-2022 where he followed up his BBL debut season in Chemnitz continuing to show his consistent side averaging 13.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 75.5%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup: averaged 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 77.1% losing to Leiden. That season was instrumental in his development as he carried the team for a while with top player TJ Shorts being out. “That year was one of my best from a standpoint I had to step up once TJ went down. The last 13 games I averaged 18ppg and 5assists and 50/40 from the field. That was the start of being a true combo for me. It was amazing watching TJ and having him as a friend off the court”, added Terrell Harris. He witnessed the crazy rise of TJ Shorts in the last few years as he won the BCL in Germany, Eurocup in France and France Pro A and became a top Euroleague player. “I’m not surprised at anything he accomplished. He told me word for word. He will win champions league MVP, championship, Eurocup MVP/ Championship, and make it to the euroleague. He will soon be a champion and MVP, as he rightfully deserves. I will always be there for him off the court bigger than basketball with him along with Jaren from that team”, stressed Terrell Harris.

The last professional game that the ex Georgia College & State University (NCAA2) guard played was more than 13 months ago and he is beyond itching to get back into the pits. The basketball world has seen some tough injuries in the last few months to Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton and it´s always tough when a player is out for an indefinite time. “Unfortunately I had a cartilage and patella injury at the end of last summer. That sidelined me for this year. I could’ve returned in February at the deadline but I wanted to make sure my body and mind was sharp before rushing into a situation. I learned a lot from this injury and grew as a player and human from this injury. I’m grateful this is behind now and that I’m back to 100%. This was my first injury so it was tough for me the past 10 months. I had to learn how to run again and cut but most importantly to stay patient. Lower leg injuries take time and serious rehabilitation. You will for sure learn how to win the days 1 by 1 and continue to build from it”, remembered Terrell Harris. The rehab was difficult, but he had some special people in his corner that drove him to higher heights mentally. “I did my rehab in Italy at AD Maiora those guys did a great job. I reached out to a few people and had people in my corner who I can lean on. Some of the best advice I received was from a former teammate and friend TJ Shorts. “ Don’t ask why it happened to me, it happens already, build your days, and know you will come back stronger”, warned Terrell Harris. The mind games that a player must deal with during a brutal injury is vicious, but he gained from it. “I learned that I wasn’t as strong mentally as I thought. I always had patience. But this injury gave mentally strength. I felt like I was at my worse point 5 months ago. Now that I’m back healthy and strong doing what I love. It’s hard for me to have a bad day. I just think back 5 months ago I was struggling to get my strength back and had trouble walking”, said Terrell Harris. Is he 100% fit again? “I’m back fit running and jumping and looking to add to a team. My legs are stronger than ever and I’m currently training with no limitations getting ready for year 9”, expressed Terrell Harris. It may have recently been the Jaws movie 50th anniversary, but he isn´t in any shark tank at Sea World, but in the yearly shark tank concerning the transfer period. “I’m back available testing the market. I still have a lot to give. I’m refreshed, highly motivated, and forever grateful to be able to put a jersey back on. I still have a lot left in the tank. I’m sure someone will take a chance on me and will get rewarded. I contributed to the highest level and everywhere I went. I´m open to all options. Once teams see me they will realize I came back stronger, shoot better, and just as fast before. I will make an impact wherever I go”, stressed Terrell Harris. Despite his injury and missing a season, how is he a different player than last being a teammate with TJ Shorts in 2022? “I’m a better player from the standpoint of play making and reading the game better. I can call myself a true combo who can defend and in shoot the 3 ball more comfortable and more attempts a game”, stressed Terrell Harris. It will be interesting where Terrell Harris lands for the 2025-206 season. Who knows maybe back in Germany. No matter where he lands, any team will be more than grateful for getting the ultimate teammate and warrior.

USA Coast To 109-76 Win Over Germany Securing U-19 World Cup Gold

Pic credit: Fiba

It was the biggest game in the lives of German top players Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach as they were battling team USA for the U-19 World Cup Gold. It hadn´t even been 2 years since Germany won the 2023 Gold at the World Cup over USA. Could Germany pull a similar upset like Dennis Schroeder and Franz Wagner did then? Team Germany gave all they had in the first half to stay close to team USA, but on this summer night in Lausanne, they had to settle for a Silver which was an incredible accomplishment. Last summer Germany won the Euro U-18 Gold and now winning the silver shows just how well the German youth is still continuing to develop. “It’s a massive achievement—especially coming off last year’s European Championship win. To follow that up with a silver medal on the global stage shows real consistency and growth in the program. This run gave the players exposure to elite international competition, and they showed they can compete with anybody. Silver might not be the ultimate prize, but after winning Europe and now finishing runner-up to the USA, this marks another major milestone in the rise of German basketball”, warned ratiopharm Ulm U-19 youth coach Florian Flabb. Team Germany played well with Team USA for a quarter, but after that team USA´s deadly athleticism and transition game did them in. “Germany came out strong, responding to a 4-0 deficit with a 13-3 run, led by Christian Anderson’s early scoring and control in the halfcourt. They attacked mismatches, executed well in pick-and-roll, and slowed the tempo to keep the USA out of transition. But once the USA settled in, their defensive pressure, athleticism, and depth completely shifted the game. They began switching screens, speeding up possessions, and forcing turnovers that led to easy transition points. Koa Peat dominated the paint, AJ Dybantsa (206-G/F-2007) consistently broke down defenders off the dribble, and the USA bench added scoring depth Germany couldn’t match. By the second quarter, the USA had taken control. Germany struggled to generate clean looks, and their offense stagnated under increased ball pressure. Over 40 minutes, the USA’s physicality and relentless pace wore Germany down”, stated Florian Flabb.

Team USA jumped out quickly leading 4-0 with Koa Peat and AJ Dybantsa buckets in the paint something that would plague team Germany all evening long. However it didn´t take Team Germany long to show that magical explosive scoring that they have shown all week long as they went on a 13-3 run to lead 13-7. In Germany´s massive run, it was as usual Christian Anderson who supplied the lethal punch as he scored 7 points while Hannes Steinbach, Declan Duru and Jack Kayil also scored. It was apparent just how focused Anderson was. He was playing his biggest game in his life and holding more than his own against potential 2026 #1 NBA draft picks Dybantsa, Brown and Peat. “His motivation looked very high—not just because he was facing three projected 2026 NBA first-rounders in Peat, Brown, and Dybantsa, but because a gold medal was on the line. The stage, the stakes, and the competition clearly brought out his best”, said Florian Flabb. But Team USA then bounced back and did it with their second unit taking a page out of team Germany´s book. Tyran Stokes added 6 points and Caleb Holt 4 points while pass first point guard JJ Mandaquit scored and giant Daniel Jacobsen also showed he owned the paint area. Team USA totally hurt team Germany with their quick passing and driving to lead 24-23 after one quarter. “Germany controlled much of the early first quarter through sharp halfcourt execution and disciplined tempo management. After falling behind, they went on a impressive 13-3 run by using early pick-and-rolls with spacing, and minimizing early turnovers. Defensively, they clogged the paint and forced the USA into contested jumpers, slowing down transition opportunities. Tactically, Germany’s early success came from controlling pace and forcing the USA into a halfcourt game, where their defensive structure held up well. However, in the final minutes of the quarter, the USA adjusted by increasing on-ball pressure, switching more defensively, and pushing the tempo off misses and turnovers. This shift disrupted Germany’s rhythm, leading to a few quick scores that swung the momentum”, commented Florian Flabb.

In the second quarter team USA took control of the game for good and never looked back again leading 56-47 at the break. Team USA came out with a swift 9-3 run to lead 33-26. Team USA played their game attacking the paint and running on transition as AJ Dybantsa and Jordan Smith Jr led the attack. Team USA remained very aggressive always getting to the free throw line. They continued to use their bench well as Morez Johnson Jr and Jasper Johnson combined for 6 points. Christian Anderson did all he could against an aggressive defense that was guarding him heavily. Anderson added 5 points to keep Germany in the game.” Germany struggled in three key areas. First, transition defense broke down—USA pushed the pace, and Germany couldn’t recover fast enough, leading to easy layups. Second, they lost control at the one vs one matchups. Once USA guards beat their man, help rotations were late. Finally, ball screen coverage was inconsistent—USA punished indecision with efficient looks around the rim. It was a tough stretch that turned the momentum”, said Florian Flabb.

The turning point of the final happened in the third quarter as team USA kept up their great offensive execution producing 28 points, but the big difference to the second quarter was that Team Germany wasn´t able to trade baskets as well and only scored 10 points as they were staring at a 84-57 deficit after 30 minutes. A big mistake by team Germany was that they didn´t come out of the break stronger. Once again they allowed a rapid run by Team USA that they couldn´t recover from. Team USA went on a 10-3 run to totally change the dimension of the game as they led 66-50 as they showed that they can also use the three as Brown Jr and Jordan Smith Jr connected. This swift run was like a new dagger into the hearts of team Germany that stifled their mentality. “It definitely hurt. Coming out of halftime, down nine, Germany needed urgency and cohesion—but their offense came out flat. There was little movement, ball circulation slowed, and USA immediately took advantage with a 10-3 run that pushed the lead into double digits. Mentally, that kind of start is tough to absorb, especially in a final. The third quarter has been a consistent weak spot for Germany throughout the tournament. Unfortunately, Team USA exploited that trend perfectly—upping the pressure, converting turnovers, and killing any chance for Germany to regain rhythm”, added Florian Flabb. Team USA noticed right away that team Germany was reeling and they didn´t let up, but just continued to be the aggressor and built their lead so high that team Germany couldn´t find an answer. They closed out the third quarter with an overwhelming 18-7 run. They didn´t just have a few guys that took over, but it was a whole team effort as the bench stepped up again. Stokes and Jacobsen showed what it means to score in bunches. “The third quarter was the decisive stretch. USA came out firing, hitting shots from multiple levels and pushing the pace. Their ball movement was sharp, and they capitalized on every defensive lapse. On the other end, Germany’s offense became too static—little off-ball movement, slow decision-making, and too much reliance on isolation or late-clock actions. This allowed the USA to impose their tempo fully. They turned stops into fast breaks. The energy shifted completely, and by the end of the period, the game had slipped out of reach. Tactically, it was the quarter where USA’s pressure, depth, and offensive rhythm overwhelmed Germany’s stagnation and fatigue. The game was over by the fourth quarter as all the damage had been done by team USA”, expressed Florian Flabb. Germany did give all they could scoring 19 points in the fourth quarter, but it was far than enough as team USA never let up, but closed out the game in style adding 24 points and winning the game fair and square. Team USA had 6 guys score in double figures as Morez Johnson Jr led the charge with 15 points. Mikel Brown Jr added 12 points and AJ Dybantsa had 11 points while team Germany was led by Hannes Steinbach with 19 points while Christian Anderson had another great game of 18/5/9/4 game and Eric Reibe had 18 points. Team USA shot 56% from the field and 33% from outside and had 50 rebounds and 10 turnovers while Team Germany shot 41% from the field and 28% from outside and 31 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Germany Dismantle Slovenia Again 84-72 To Reach U-19 World Cup Final Against USA

Pic Credit: Fiba

Is there any team that can stop team Germany? So far no one can as they just keep being triumphant 6-0 and beat Slovenia for a second time in this tournament 84-72 to reach the World Cup final under the watchful eyes of German basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki. The big difference to the second game against Slovenia was that this time, team Germany controlled the game from the first minute instead of having to come from behind to win like in the first game. Germany will face team USA in the final who easily knocked off New Zealand 120-64. Germany once again showed their excellent team play led by their 2 top guards Christian Anderson (188-G-2006) and Jack Kayil and under the boards the potent duo of Hannes Steinbach and Eric Reibe controlled everything. Once again team Germany also totally crushed their opponent on the boards. “Germany delivered a very mature and composed 40-minute performance. From an outsider’s perspective, what really stood out was their ability to control the tempo and adapt to the game’s momentum swings. They were strong on both ends of the floor—especially in the second quarter, where they built a double-digit lead through defensive pressure and smart execution in transition. Their rebounding, led by Hannes Steinbach, created second-chance opportunities and prevented Slovenia from gaining rhythm. Christian Anderson brought that offensive spark, showing great poise, while Eric Reibe´s and Jack Kayil’s clutch shooting down the stretch helped maintain control. Even when Slovenia pushed back in the third quarter, Germany didn’t lose their composure. That mental toughness, combined with depth and discipline, allowed them to close the game confidently. Overall, it was a well-rounded and professional effort”, stated Orange Academy head coach Florian Flabb.

In the first quarter team Germany wasn´t able to have a huge start like in previous games, but they still had the tight 19-17 lead after 10 minutes. It was a quarter of both teams having small runs. Team Germany was able to get away a bit leading 18-11 as Christian Anderson of Texas Teach (NCAA) as usual hurt team Slovenia with his lethal drive scoring 3 buckets in the paint. Ex Rasta vechta guard Jack Kayil also found his range dropping a trey.” Christian Anderson was absolutely central to Germany’s offensive success — not just in carrying the scoring load, but in orchestrating the tempo and spacing of their attack. While Germany established their inside game early through Hannes Steinbach, it was Anderson who elevated the offense. Importantly, he carried momentum from yesterday’s game against Australia, where he had a very strong start. That early confidence translated immediately today — he looked sharp from the first possession, aggressive off the dribble, and comfortable reading Slovenia’s pick-and-roll coverages. Tactically, he exploited Slovenia’s help schemes by using high ball screens to create separation, often drawing two defenders and making the right reads. His ability to attack gaps, and draw contact forced Slovenia to collapse defensively — which opened clean looks for shooters and created driving lanes. What makes him so valuable isn’t just his 27 points — it’s the fact that he makes the defense move. When Germany needed baskets during Slovenia’s third-quarter push, it was Anderson who settled the offense, slowed the game down, and got quality looks”, stated Florian Flabb. Team Slovenia didn´t hang their heads, but fought back in the last few minutes making good use of their bread and butter the three pointer and connecting twice as Mark Padjen and Urban Kroflic scored.

In the second quarter team Germany was able to heighten their game as they produced 26 points and had the comfortable 45-31 advantage at the break. After a few minutes of back and forth battle, team Germany absolutely exploded on a 23-9 run. Christian Anderson just took over in total brutal fashion scoring 12 of the 23 points. He has been a dog the whole tournament, but his game keeps growing with every new win. It seems like he is playing with a chip on his shoulder and has something to prove. “I don’t know Christian Anderson personally that well, but it definitely looks like he’s playing with something to prove. He didn’t win MVP when Germany won the European Championship last year, and maybe that’s part of what’s fueling him now. In that 23–9 run, he completely took over — 12 points, confident decisions, and real command of the offense”, said Florian Flabb. But it wasn´t only Anderson in the attack that sparkled, but as usual Hannes Steinbach contributed in his usual self adding 5 points while Eric Reibe and Keenan Garner also scored. “The turning point in that second quarter wasn’t just Germany’s offensive rhythm — it was the defensive shift they made that completely disrupted Slovenia’s flow. The most noticeable tactical adjustment was that Germany began switching more aggressively on ball screens, particularly on the perimeter. In the first quarter, Slovenia found ways to attack Germany’s show coverage by getting downhill off picks and forcing rotations. But once Germany started switching, it took away the driving lanes and neutralized Slovenia’s advantage in pick-and-roll creation. This forced Slovenia into more isolation-based looks, which played right into Germany’s hands. The switching also helped contain dribble penetration without over-helping, which kept their defensive spacing intact and allowed the weak side to stay home on shooters. Combined with more physical rebounding Germany turned stops into immediate offense. Their transition game kicked into gear off those defensive wins, fueling that 26-point second quarter”, commented Florian Flabb.

In the third quarter team Slovenia found back into the game as they trailed only 57-49 after 30 minutes. Team Slovenia attacked the inside better and got to the free throw line better. Kroflic and Bine made easy lay in´s, but they also got a key three from Zak Smrekar and free throws from Leon Zdravkovic. It was a quarter to forget for Christian Anderson who couldn´t hit shots and had 4 of his total 8 turnovers in the game. “In the third quarter, Germany lost a bit of their defensive sharpness — especially in terms of physicality in the paint. Slovenia made a clear adjustment by attacking the rim more directly, and Germany didn’t respond with the same level of interior resistance they showed in the first half.They were a step late rotating over, and the switches that worked so well earlier became less effective when Slovenia started slipping screens and cutting harder off the ball. Germany also didn’t protect the weak side as well — Slovenia capitalized with a few easy finishes around the rim and open threes. Offensively, Germany also got a bit stagnant, which allowed Slovenia to control the tempo and build some momentum”, expressed Florian Flabb.

Even if Zak Smreker began the fourth quarter hitting free throws to cut Germany´s lead down to 57-51, one never ever had the feeling that Germany would lose this game. Germany responded smacking team Slovenia with a crucial 8-0 run as Anderson made free throws and Reibe connected on consecutive three´s giving team Germany the 65-51 lead. Those three´s were like a dagger into the hearts of Slovenia. “Absolutely — those back-to-back threes from Eric Reibe were a real dagger. Slovenia had just cut the lead to six and had momentum on their side for the first time since the first quarter. Germany looked a little unsettled — and then Reibe stepped up and buried two huge shots. Tactically, it was a perfect response: spacing the floor, trusting the trail big in pick-and-pop action, and punishing Slovenia for collapsing into the paint. Reibe’s timing was huge — not just in terms of scoring, but in completely flipping the psychological flow of the game. From that moment on, Germany never looked threatened again”, expressed Florian Flabb. Team Germany had the momentum on their side again and now just played their game and found good offensive execution again. Steinbach and Declan Duru scored and Jack Kayil was clutch with 5 points as team Germany led 78-65 with 3,36 to play. As so often in this tournament, team Germany always had an answer. “That’s what makes this Germany team so hard to beat — they always seem to have an answer. Whether it’s Anderson breaking down the defense, Reibe stretching the floor in that game, or Kayil stepping up as a scorer, they don’t rely on just one option”, warned Florian Flabb. Team Germany closed out the game well as they got to the free throw line as Duru, Garner, Steinbach and Anderson made their free throws. Christian Anderson led team Germany with 27 points while Hannes Steinbach had a 14/16 game. Eric Reibe had another super game with 14 points and 5 rebounds while team Slovenia was led by Mark Padjen with 23 points. Team Germany shot 54% from the field and 36% from outside and had 42 rebounds and 22 turnovers while team Slovenia shot 35% from the field and 36% from outside and had 23 rebounds and 12 turnovers. Team Germany now face team USA: This game is the next big game in the history of German basketball since the 2023 World Cup final which team Germany won over team USA: The question is can Germany beat team USA at the youth level? “Against a high-powered team like the USA or New Zealand, the key for Germany will be controlling the tempo, protecting the paint, and staying disciplined defensively. Both potential opponents are very athletic and thrive in transition — so Germany can’t afford careless turnovers or rushed possessions. Rebounding will be absolutely critical. Germany has relied on Hannes Steinbach’s dominance on the glass all tournament, but in the final, it’ll take a full team effort to limit second chances and win the physical battles inside. Offensively, they’ll need to stay balanced and unpredictable. Christian Anderson will likely face more athletic perimeter defenders, so Germany’s ball movement and contributions from Kayil, Steinbach, Reibe and the supporting cast become even more important”, warned Florian Flabb.

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Germany Keep Rolling Defeating Australia 80-67 To Reach U-19 World Cup Semi-Finals

pic credit: Fiba

Team Germany keep rolling at the U-19 World Cup in Lausanne as they remained undefeated 5-0 knocking off Team Australia 80-67. Once again the team coached by Alan Ibrahimagic showed their fine team qualities as five players scored in double figures and they easily won the rebounding duel 58-38 and thrashed Australia with 16 offensive rebounds. Hannes Steinbach was a menace once again on the glass hauling down 16 rebounds while also netting 16 points. One guy who is following the action in Switzerland as closely as one only can is German coach Florian Flabb who recently led ratiopharm Ulm to the NBBL (U-19) top 4 in Berlin in May. “From the opening tip, Germany just looked locked in. They came out with great energy and really set the tone early—putting up 28 points in the first quarter and forcing Australia into some tough shots and early mistakes. That fast start gave them a cushion they never really let go of. What impressed me the most was their poise. Even when Australia made a strong push in the third quarter—cutting what was once a 19-point lead down to single digits—Germany didn’t panic. Credit to Australia for fighting back—they played a much better second half and made it a real contest—but Germany’s defensive discipline in the fourth quarter was the difference. They closed out possessions, rebounded well, and took care of the ball when it mattered”, stressed Florian Flabb.

One thing Germany hasn´t lacked in this tournament is getting out of bed on the wrong side as they continue to come out roaring and setting the tone with a 16-4 run. Team Germany was very aggressive as Texas Tech (NCAA) guard Christian Anderson (188-G-2006) continued to find his range hitting 2 three pointers while ex Real Madrid forward Declan Deru used his athleticism to the fullest scoring 3 buckets in the paint. His energy was vital in helping Team Germany get away from Team Australia early. “Declan Duru set the tone in those opening minutes — not just with his physicality on the boards, but with his overall activity. He got them extra possessions, created second-chance opportunities, and helped build that early lead that ultimately gave Germany control of the game”, said Florian Flabb. Team Australia then found some daylight going on a 10-4 run to trail Team Germany 23-14 as they found their way to the hoop with successful drives. However Team Germany closed out the first quarter with instant energy from the bench as Orange Academy guard Jordan Muller made free throws and Alba Berlin center Amon Doerries stepped out for a trey as Team Germany led 28-14 after one quarter. “That 16–4 run was massive — not just in terms of the scoreboard, but in setting the tone psychologically. Germany came out with confidence, they moved the ball crisply, hit shots, and completely dictated the tempo. Germany’s energy and execution in those first few minutes gave them an important spark, and even though Australia fought back later, that early punch put them in a hole they spent the whole game trying to climb out of”, added Florian Flabb.

In the second Team Germany continued to have control of the game continuing to execute solidly on offense scoring 24 points and leading comfortably 52-33 at half-time. New Washington (NCAA) center Hannes Steinbach continued to be his lethal self in this tournament executing at a high percentage in the paint while also getting to the free throw line. However the story of the second quarter was Indiana native Kennan Garner of Indiana Univ-Purdue Univ-Indianapolis (NCAA). He hasn´t got many minutes at the World Cup, but in the second quarter demonstrated that he can score in bunches as he scored 8 of his 10 points sparking team Germany off the bench. This was another great example of how it doesn´t matter who is thrown on to the court, every player understands their role and perform. “First off, you’re absolutely right — Germany’s depth and clarity in roles has been a important asset of their success. The fact that someone like Keenan Garner can come in, stay ready, and give them instant defensive and offensive impact shows just how connected this group is”, stated Florian Flabb. Flabb´s ex player Jordan Mueller closed out the second half with a clutch three pointer to get Germany into the locker room with high spirits.

That basketball is a game of runs is nothing new. It was only a matter of time before team Australia would make their move and they did that in the third quarter. Team Australia stormed back executing a lot better on offense scoring 24 points while making adjustments on defense allowing only 12 points.Team Germany couldn´t close out the third quarter well as they led by as much as 21 points with 3,55 to play in the third quarter and at that point, it looked like Team Germany would easily roll to the win. However team Australia closed out the third quarter with a massive 15-1 run to trail only 64-57. Key in the run was Luke Fennell of BA Centre of Excellence (NBL One East) scoring 8 points including 2 three pointers. “Give credit to Australia in that third quarter. They came out of the locker room with a lot more defensive urgency. They started pressuring the ball higher up the floor, they switched more aggressively on screens, and they did a much better job closing driving lanes — which really disrupted Germany’s offensive rhythm. They also denied the wings and forced Germany into more isolation-type possessions. Germany’s ball movement slowed down, their spacing suffered, and that allowed Australia to push the tempo off stops. It was the first time Germany looked a little uncomfortable in the game. It wasn’t just tactical — it was also a shift in intensity and offensively producing from the three point line. Australia played like a team with its back against the wall, and it showed. That quarter gave them life, but ultimately Germany’s composure and team structure carried them through the final stretch”, commented Florian Flabb.

Team Australia threatened early in the fourth quarter being down only by 4 points, but team Germany didn´t panic, but just played their game and came up with big buckets and plays when they needed them Jacob Furphy of BA Centre of Excellence (NBL One East) scored 5 points keeping team Australia very close, but team Germany held their nerves closing out the game with a 10-3 run. In the run, team Germany displayed their all around fine team play getting key baskets from Garner, Reibe and Duru to seal up the win.” Germany’s depth and trust in every player really shined through. When the pressure was on and Australia had cut it to six, you could feel the momentum shifting. But instead of panicking or relying solely on their top scorers, Germany stayed composed, stuck to their structure, and guys like Eric Reibe stepped up in a huge way. Reibe’s baskets were big — not just in terms of points, but in breaking Australia’s momentum. He finished strong around the rim, made smart cuts, and gave them physicality inside when they needed it most. It was a perfect example of Germany’s ‘next man up’ mentality. But beyond that, what sealed the game for Germany was their execution. They got stops defensively, they slowed the game down offensively, and they made smart decisions with the ball”, expressed Florian Flabb. Team Germany was led by Christian Anderson with 18 points while Hannes Steinbach added 16 points and Eric Reibe 12 points. Jack Kayil had a horrible 1/13 shooting day, but helped in other ways dishing out 12 dimes and getting 3 steals. Team Australia was led by Luke Fennell with 18 points while Roman Siulepa added 16 points. Team Germany shot 43% from the field and 25% from outside and had 58 rebounds and 16 turnovers while Team Australia shot 34% from the field and 31% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 8 turnovers. Team Germany next battle Slovenia in the semi-finals. They beat them already in the first game, but had problems with them as they had to come back to win. How dangerous will team Slovenia be for team Germany? “Slovenia is absolutely dangerous — and maybe even more so the second time around. That first game against Germany was tight, and Slovenia actually had control for long stretches before Germany mounted a comeback. So you can bet Slovenia remembers that, and they’ll come into the semifinal hungry, focused, and with a bit of a chip on their shoulder. One of the biggest keys for Germany will be taking advantage of their interior presence, especially with Hannes Steinbach and Eric Reibe. Those two give Germany a real edge around the basket — whether it’s post scoring, offensive rebounds, or rim protection. If Germany can establish them early and play inside-out, it could open up the floor and really stretch Slovenia’s defense. They also need to stay composed, trust their depth, and control the tempo. Germany’s strength is their balance — anyone can step up. But this time, they have to combine that with smart decision-making and a physical edge inside. If they do that, they’ll put themselves in a great position to advance”, warned Florian Flabb.

Dorian Grosber Really Appreciated The All-Around Game Of Amon Doerries With Alba Berlin

pic credit: ellystro media

Dorian Grosber (197-PG-2006) is an 18 year old 197cm forward from Luxemburg that plays in the Alba Berlin organization. He primarily plays for the farm team Lok Bernau averaging 9/4/2 and and for the NBBL (U-19) team averaging 11/6/3/2. He also has played 2 Euroleague games. Last season he played 10 games for Lok Bernau averaging 2,8ppg, 2,0rpg and 1,7apg and with the NBBL team averaged 9/6/3. In the 2022-2023 season he helped Alba Berlin win the NBBL title averaging 5/3/1. He began his basketball career with BBC Sparta Bertrange U17 team (EYBL) and also played with the CFBB Luxembourg U16 team (EYBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his teammate Amon Doerries.

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

I´m still in Berlin. I´m training and spending time with friends. Next week, I will head to Luxemburg.

How quickly did you digest the NBBL Top 4 loss?

It took about a week. It was a strange feeling after the loss. But it´s a loss and you have to accept it. I was happy that my family was there.

You had a super season playing Euroleague, Pro B and NBBL: How would you personally rate your 2024-2025 season?

This was the most important season of my career. Before this season, I had hardly practiced with the pro´s or played Pro B. I learned a lot especially being able to play different roles. This season had a big influence on my career.

Will you remain with Alba Berlin?

No. I don´t know yet if I will play college in the States or play for another pro team.

Have you been following the 2025 U-19 World Cup?

Yes I have.

Have you been following Germany? What has been your impression of Team Germany?

I´m surprised that they have won their games so easily. I have a good feeling about them. I hope that they will win the Gold

How far can they go? Do they have the personal to be a USA or France?

I believe that they are better than every other team even without Ivan Kharchenkov. Australia could be tough, but they should be able to beat France, because they are without 2 key players. USA will be tough. They could win or lose.

How good is that kid Christian Anderson? How would you compare him in skill to a guy like your ex teammate Jack Kayil?

They are both different type of players. I only saw Christian play once at a camp. He is a very good player. He displayed good stats at Texas Tech. But I like Jack more as a player, but I also know him well. Both are really good players. They are hard to compare.

When you hear the name Amon Doerries what is the first thing that comes to mind?

Athletic.

You have been teammates with Amon Doerries for some years now. What do you appreciate most about his game?

I like that he is an allrounder. People really underestimate his athleticism and shooting ability. He began as a lefty and now shoots right. His shot is always getting better. Plus he is a very hard worker.

Team Germany has big talents Hannes Steinbach and Eric Reibe. How does Doerries fit into the big man rotation with his game?

He needs to get into the open court and run a lot. He just needs to play his game getting offensive rebounds and dunking. He needs to be a good teammate and help the team.

He started games in Pro B and NBBL. Is it tough for him coming off the bench for Germany?

He has always been a top player with Alba Berlin. I think that it isn´t difficult coming from the bench. He is used to it. It was like that with the U-16 and U-18. This nothing new for him. He respects it.

How much potential does he have? He seemed to get lost a bit in the big Alba Berlin big man rotation with Nufer, Schmitt, Bennefeld and Kemmer.

I think that all is possible with his potential. He is 211cm and very mobile. I think that going to college at Bucknell will help his game

Doerries had some big games in the NBBL against Berlin Braves and Rostock. What was your fondest moment with him on the court?

I think the 2 nicest moments was winning the NBBL title in 2024 and our last NBBL game this season. We realized it was our last game and that meant a lot.

What kind of a relation do you have with him? Just a normal teammate to teammate or does it go beyond that?

Our relationship goes further than just that teammate-teammate relationship. I think that especially this season, we built a very good relationship. I will stay in contact and support him this season.

Thanks Dorian for the chat.

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