football

Playing A BBL Game Against The Giessen 46ers In The Gym Where He Fell In Love With The Game Was The Best Feeling For Moritz Schneider(BSW Sixers)

Moritz Schneider (191-PG-1999) is a 25 year old 191cm point guard that us playing his third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (Pro B). He began his basketball career with VFB Giessen and then played with Science City Jena playing JBBL, NBBL and for the Regionalliga team. He played 2 BBL and 2 Pro A games with Jena. He then played with Iserlohn (Pro B) from 2019-2022. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization?

It is very special especially the special relationship to the fans is very rare. You seldom see that kind of fan support in the Pro B. Our fans go to all away games no matter how far away. Sandersdorf is very small, but the fascination for basketball is unique.

The team is having another great season after missing the playoffs last season. What is the secret to the success?

We have a collection of players that fit together well. We are also difficult to scout with our offense. Our players are all unique and our coach is always best prepared for every opponent.

How is the mind set going towards the playoffs? Can this team win a title?

We are going game by game. Our goal is to get past the first round of the playoffs.

On what areas of the game does the team have to tweak now to get the absolute best results in the post season?

We need to continue to win games. We have done a great job developing step by step the whole season. We are a totally different team now from the first Fiba break. The young players also have developed well. We have to keep moving forward.

What has it been like being teammates with Nike Salenieks. What have you been able to soak up most from his game?

He came from the Regionalliga. At first I didn´t know what to expect when he arrived. I remember playing against him last season and he didn´t stand out. But this season he has made a 180 degrees turn and totally exploded. He is one of the quickest and most athletic in the league. He has all the tools to be a great player in the Pro B. He is so hard to guard and always best prepared. I love playing with him.

Your leading the team in assists as your assists average has grown each season. How has your game especially your playmaking grown with the Sixers?

I have a bigger role this season than the last 2 seasons. I was always a pass first point guard my whole career. Head coach Lukas Vargas has done a great job to put me in the right position to be successful. I know what the strengths of my teammates are.

You have averaged 21-22 minutes a season which is considerably more than what you averaged in Iserlohn. What is your role on the team? Are you the classic back up point guard?

No, I´m captain of the team. I am a leader coming from the bench. I´m the second hand of the coach. He gives me a lot of freedom with play calling.

You were teammates for 2 seasons with Donte Nicholas. He is Mr triple double. What memories will you always have of him as a teammate?

Donte and I are close friends. He is still so difficult to guard even at age 38. He has such a high IQ and has great abilities. He is a complete player. I learned a lot from him and we harmonized well on the court. I learned so much about him about nutrition and stretching. I remember seeing him score 30 points. He is ice cold. He can fit with any team.

You played under Darren Stackhouse who was an assistant coach. Did he tell any Jerry Stackhouse stories?

No unfortunately not. He doesn´t coach us much since he is preoccupied more with the youth teams. I will have to ask him when I see him again.

What will you always remember from the 2023 Pro B playoffs? You beat Oberaching and Frankfurt and then lost to Koblenz?

I will never forget that first playoff game against Oberaching. We won by 40. The atmosphere was incredible. I remember winning in Frankfurt and dominating despite missing some key players. We played nice basketball. We then lost to Koblenz. That was like David vs Goliath. The difference in budgets was like night and day. That was the best season in our club history. Basketball was most fun that season.

After playing some years in Jena, you moved to Iserlohn in 2019 and played 3 seasons. After playing 2 BBL games, did you realize that having a BBL career would be tough?

I had torn my ACL in my last season in Jena. I knew that I would have no role in the Pro A as they were trying to move back up to the BBL. I was done with school and wanted to play Pro B. Iserlohn was the best fit.

You never averaged more than 2,5ppg with Iserlohn. How do you remember those years? Did you get a fair chance there?

I feel like I did get a fair chance. I had injury problems. I had just found my rhythm in my first season and Covid ended the season. Then a new coach came as well as Toni Prostran and I got less minutes.

You played 2 seasons with now Iserlohn head coach Toni Prostran. How do you remember those early years? What could you soak up from his game?

I learned 100% from Toni. I remember when I first saw him play, that he was small and not athletic. I didn´t think that he was better than me. The first few weeks, I dominated him, but he wasn´t in shape yet. But then he began to play and dominated me. I was his back up and learned how to read the game better and the pick and roll. He helped bring me to a new level.

You were teammates with Elias Marei for 3 years. How did you see his game grow?

Elias made big steps in Iserlohn. I remember that in the first season he was only a practice player. In the second season, he began to play games and in his third season got good minutes. I´m proud of his development. He is one of the hardest workers that I ever saw. He gives his all on the court and you can always rely on him. He is the ultimate team player. Even if he misses 2 three´s, he will still give is best. I´m happy how well his season is going with Leitershofen.

You played with Science City Jena from 2014-2018 from the youth to the BBL. What do you remember from this time. Was this some of the best times of your life?

Yes it was. Those years were amazing. I won the Pro A there in my first year. I couldn´t believe my luck when I heard that Immanuel Mcelroy would be my teammate. I also played with other great players like Wayne Bernard, and Guido Grunheid. I was coached by Bjoern Harmsen. He was such a clever coach. Later in my BBL year, I had more great players like Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins and Dru Joyce.

In the 2015-2016 season you played 2 Pro A games and was teammates with Immanuel Mcelroy. How did you experience him as a 16 year old?

It was crazy to be teammates with him. I remember when I was a kid that my dad was a huge basketball fan. I remember seeing Giessen play Cologne in the playoffs in 2005. I saw Giessen win a game against Cologne. 10 years later I would become his teammate. His daughter was older than me. I also learned so much from him.

The 2017-2018 season must have been like a kid in a candy store. You were teammates with BBL legends Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins, Dru Joyce, and Kyle Weaver. Which player had the biggest impact on you?

I don´t know where to start. Marcos Knight had a big impact on me as did Derrick Allen. Derrick was always the first to practice and last to leave. To see how hard he worked to age 40 was unbelievable. His will to win and work hard helped me grow as a competitor. He and all the rest of them always wanted to win every practice game.

You played 2 BBL games against Gotha and Giessen playing 4 minutes. What memories do you have of being on the court?

I was really excited to play in Gotha. It was derby game and 4000 fans were there. I remember when I came into the game in the first quarter, the fans chanted my name. We turned a 20 point deficit around and won the game. I remember playing against Daniel Schmidt. The game in Giessen was a big moment for me. It was the best feeling for me to play in the gym where I fell in love with basketball. I played against John Bryant. It is something that I will be able to tell my grand-children.

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

Deandre Ayton. I remember playing against him in Munich when I was with the Jena youth team. He was with an AAU team. It was crazy to see how athletic he already was for his age. Other tough players were John Bryant, Derrick Allen, Immanuel Mcelroy and Julius Jenkins.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Donte Nicholas, Marco Rahn, Derrick Allen, Julius Jenkins, Immanuel Mcelroy.

What is your personal NBA, Euro and German mount rushmore of past or present point guards?

Rajon Rondo, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, Steph Curry

Milos Teodosic, Vassilis Spanoulis, Nick Calathes, Tony Parker

Dennis Schroeder, Heiko Schaffarzik, Per Guenther, Anton Gavel

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Moritz for the chat.

Moritz Schneider(BSW Sixers) Will Never Forget Getting A Standing Ovation From The Fans As If They Had Won By 50 points After Playing with Only 5 Players

Moritz Schneider (191-PG-1999) is a 25 year old 191cm point guard that is playing his third season with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (Pro B). He began his basketball career with VFB Giessen and then played with Science City Jena playing JBBL, NBBL and for the Regionalliga team. He played 2 BBL and 2 Pro A games with Jena. He then played with Iserlohn (Pro B) from 2019-2022. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the historic loss to Leverkusen with only 5 players.

Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com. The BSW Sixers suffered a tough 108-57 loss to Leverkusen. This was a historic game as only 5 players played. How did this loss feel different than a regular loss when you have a full team?

It was tough playing with only 5 players against the #1 team in the league. We had never played together before and knew that we had no chance. We just wanted to play and not get injured and everyone get their chance in the game. We were glad at the end that the game was over. Leverkusen were very professional. Players came to me and said “ sorry this wasn´t your fault. Our 600 fans were amazing.

How did you prepare for the game. You knew on Friday that there would only be 5 players available? Did you do something different mentally or physically?

I went into the game knowing that I had to play. If we hadn´t played this game, the club would have gotten a big penalty. It is sad that we had to play with 5 guys. I think that if we would have had a full team, we could of won.

You had never been in a situation like this in your career where you would play so much. How tough was it starting the game knowing you won´t get a break? Did you have to find a routine how to conserve your energy?

Our warm up was shorter than usual to conserve energy. We began 30 minutes before the game. Coach made it clear that he would call a timeout at the 5 minute mark of every quarter as well as focusing on tactical fouls.

What was the defensive game plan from coach? You couldn´t not just not play defense, but on the other hand couldn´t be over aggressive either in the fear of getting fouls.

We wanted to play a lot of zone to conserve energy. They also hadn´t shot so well in the last game. We figured maybe we could frustrate them. They shot well against our zone. Our young guys simply didn´t have the experience of a Donte Nicholas.

Was the feeling going in that you would lose the game anyway? What was it like playing as hard as you could, but knowing the chances to win were as good as 0?

You go into every game to play hard. Our focus was not to concentrate on the score, but on positive things that happened in the game. We wanted to stay positive and not sink our heads.

Leverkusen led quickly 18-2 and 30-5 after one quarter. How quickly did you sense that they were there for business and not to play?

I noticed in the first 5 minutes that they were the number #1 team. They hit shot after shot in the first half. They took their foot a bit off the gas pedal in the second half. They didn´t practice the full court press as much and worked on things on defense.

The BSW Sixers scored 19 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the team make to generally play better basketball?

We played better as there was less pressure. We hit more shots and our zone worked better.

The game was decided by the end of the third quarter as Leverkusen led 91-37. In the fourth quarter the Sixers actually won the quarter 20-17. How proud were you of yourself and the other 4 teammates?

I´m really proud of my teammates. We showed character and fought until the end. We stuck together and never gave up. I think that is a reason why we have been so unexpectedly successful this season.

How were you feeling in the fourth quarter? How do you explain be able to win the quarter? What was key for getting the quarter win?

They took their feet of the gas pedal. We found a flow and just played better together after gaining experience in the first 30 minutes. We hit more shots and were more successful inside as Dennis Heinzman was on the bench.

You dished out 9 assists which was a career high. How proud were you of yourself that you survived 40 minutes and didn´t foul out and gave all you could?

I´m the captain of the team. I´m not proud of myself, but my team. I´m so proud to be a part of this team. The fans support was so special. Fans hugged me after the loss.

Leverkusen were very professional and everything worked out well for everyone despite the loss. What will you always remember most from this game?

I will remember the moment when the game was over. We got a standing ovation from our fans as if we had won by 50 points. I know that I will never be a part of a game like this again in my career.

How did your body feel after 40 minutes? Was it as bad as you thought it would be or not?

It was tough. I expected it to be bad and it was. But I feel better now 2 days later.

What was your favorite own assist of the day?

My bounce pass at the end to Max Nwokedi for the dunk.

What did you learn about yourself after experiencing a game like this with only 5 guys?

I had never played 40 minutes before. I learned that in order to play 40 minutes, you have to be in great shape. We showed what we are capable of when we fight.

Thanks Moritz for the chat.

Jamie Edoka´s 34 Points And Ivan Crnjac´s Game Winner Powers Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners Over Ratiopharm Ulm 89-88 IN NBBL Playoff Action

Whenever it starts to get warmer and it´s March, you have March madness in the United States where all the young talented players battle, while in Germany, the youth playoffs also start. Eintracht Frankfurt had a solid season starting 8-0, but lost the season series to FC Bayern Munich and finished the season at 11-3. In the first round of the playoffs, they had a real real tough best of 3 game playoff series with ratiopharm Ulm who had an unbeaten season at 13-0. They are a explosive scoring squad that scored over 100 points 5 times including a 136 points destruction of the Rhein Neckar Metropolitans and never scored less than 82 points in a game. But one had to remember that ratiopharm Ulm played in the B division which had weaker competition. Eintracht Frankfurt had the big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog and 2 great role players with Maximilian Peters and Julius Messer, but the big question was could they overcome the deeper roster of ratiopharm Ulm who have so much talent that they have 2 starting 5 teams equally as strong. On a mild Sunday afternoon, ratiopharm Ulm came to Frankfurt despite 8 of the 10 NBBL player that played in Frankfurt were coming off an incredible upset win the day before in the Pro B over top team RheinStars, but despite having played 24 hours earlier were ready to compete for 40 minutes, but lost a heartbreaker on a game winner from Ivan Crnjac. This contest truly deserved no loser. One could observe quickly after the game that ratiopharm Ulm head coach Florian Flabb wasn´t overjoyed with losing such a tight game. “Congrats to Frankfurt to the win. We weren´t able to bring the defensive intensity that we wanted. We will try to do better next weekend”, stressed Florian Flabb. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners weren´t the favorite on paper, but they played with so much heart and always stuck together during all lows of the game. “We played a good game. This was a classic game of runs. We never hung our heads and always stayed together. The most important thing in this win was that we always gave our best when we needed it most”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners forward Ivan Crnjac. “This was a great youth game. There were many great individual performances and team play. We stuck together until the end”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners head coach Thore Bethke.

Namori Omog at the FT line

The experience factor that ratiopharm Ulm had over Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was overwhelming as they had over 140 Pro B games experience just in this season. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners came out punching as the guests weren´t able to match their intensity in the first 2 minutes as Frankfurt led 6-3 with attacking the rim and aggressive defense. Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008) made 2 big blocks and made a lay in while Namori Omog supplied 4 points. However it didn´t take ratiopharm Ulm long to find a groove as Croatian player Niko Jerkic and U-18 EM gold medalist Jordan Mueller dropped three´s to dead lock the game at 8-8. Both teams had a sound offensive rhythm as they traded 4 lead changes, but Frankfurt would regain the lead on Ivan Crnjac´s lay in on transition to lead 15-12 and never lose the lead again in the first quarter. Both teams stayed away from the bomb from outside, but rather stuck to the drive and the mid distance game. Frankfurt got a 20 footer by Edoka and a runner from Crnjac while ratiopharm Ulm got a 25 footer from Oliver Kullamae who is the son of Bamberg legend Gerd Kullamae, but Frankfurt led 19-16. German Jervis Scheffs who loves the shifty game made a lay in and Edoka an off balance shot to give Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners the 21-18 advantage after 10 minutes. “I sensed after one quarter that this would be a game at eye level. They are a deep and strong team. We had some problems with the pick and roll defense, but we took away their three pointer”, stated Ivan Crnjac.

Chris Widmer to the hole

The second quarter saw 3 runs with ratiopharm Ulm gaining 2 of them and the slim 41-38 advantage at half-time. Omog began the second quarter with a off balance shot to give Frankfurt the 23-18 lead, but ratiopharm Ulm then punched back with a lethal 13-0 run stealing the lead back and leading comfortably 31-23. In the run, ratiopharm Ulm was led by Jordan Mueller who supplied 8 points. He hit a trey and added 5 free throws. His ability to read the defense and pick his spots and quickness helped him be successful. Young German Milo Murray also added a lay in while Dutch big man Endurance Aiyamenkhue also made a lay in. This could have been a time where Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners would continue to cave in, but no they kept their chests held high and rebounded with a 10-2 run to dead lock the game at 33-33. In the run, Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 5 points who never looked back and was always in attack mode as he drew a foul and scored while Ivan Crnjac made a lay in and German Julius Messer a tip in. Frankfurt presented a zone that gave ratiopharm Ulm problems with their offensive execution. However the run party of the second quarter wasn´t over as Ulm responded on a 8-2 run shortly before the break to lead 41-35. In the run the guests were led by Kullamae who is a pass first point guard, but in this phase showed that he could also lead a team with his scoring. He added 5 points getting to the free throw line. With a few seconds left Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had to inbounds the ball in their own end and somehow got the ball up to Ivan Crnjac a little past center court and he heaved up an acrobatic shot that looked like a Nikola Jokic shot from last season and saw it bank into the net. The BCM gym was rocking and Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners trailed only 41-38 at the break. “My shot felt good when I released it. I knew it would be short or go in. That shot gave us an added push going into the break. It helped us mentally as well”, commented Ivan Crnjac. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 41% from the field and 27% from outside and had 22 rebounds and 4 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 17% from outside and had 16 rebounds and 1 turnover. “We didn´t communicate well on defense in the second quarter. We got away from our defensive principles”, stated Ivan Crnjac.

Ivan Crnjac with the half time buzzer beater

In the third quarter ratiopharm Ulm controlled the lead for a few minutes and led by as much as 9 points, but Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners never gave up and struck back going on a 20-5 run and get their lead back at 68-66 after 30 minutes. Ratiopharm Ulm came out pumped after the Crnjac buzzer beater and quickly went on a 9-3 run to lead 50-41. In the run the guests got 2 buckets on the drive from Jerkic and a 3 pointer from role player Barna Buglyo and another lay in by Aiyamenkhue. Frankfurt continued to have problems with the pick and roll defense and 1-1 defense. Ulm also slowed down Edoka better in the run. But Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners always had an answer for Ulm´s runs and this time unleashed a brutal 20-5 run to steal the lead back again at 61-55. Mr lightening speed Namori Omog led the charge with11 points as his quick first step and drive gave him good chances for the easy basket while Jamie Edoka added 9 points as he pretty much was successful with the same formula as Omog with his drive. There was a sequence where Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners scored 6 points in a span of 5-7 seconds. Edoka had a lay in and then 2 consecutive steals under the Ulm basket led to 2 baskets by Omog. “That was so important getting those quick baskets. It hyped our bench and gave us a lot of self-confidence”, expressed ivan Crnjac. However ratiopharm Ulm stayed strong and stayed with Frankfurt and rebounding from Frankfurt´s big run punching back with a 10-2 run as ratiopharm Ulm got lead back at 65-63. Jonas Zilinskas gave good support with 5 points getting to the free throw line. However Frankfurt stayed tough getting to the free throw line getting free throws from Edoka and Julius Messer for the 2 point lead after 3 quarters.” We began bad, but came back strong to end the quarter. Edoka was vital in helping us comeback”, added Ivan Crnjac. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 19% from the three point line and had 25 rebounds and 4 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 41% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Niko Jerkic at the FT line

In the fourth quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were able to build on their lead and lead by 10 points with 4 minutes to play, but the script in this thriller had one more run to give to ratiopharm ulm, but they couldn´t get the win on the last possession. In the first 4 possessions of the fourth quarter, both teams executed well as Frankfurt got baskets from Edoka and Finley Pruever while Ratiopharm Ulm got baskets from Jerkic and Danish youth national player Frederik Erichsen, but Frankfurt had the slim 72-70 advantage. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners then wanted to decide the game and overpowered ratiopharm Ulm with a vicious 14-6 run to extend their lead to 86-76. In the run Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Jamie Edoka with 7 points. As usual his drive was unstoppable, but he also sprayed in a three pointer. He finished the game with 34 points and was as humble as usual about his game. “Anyone on our team can score 34 points. Today it was just my turn”, said Jamie Edoka. Messer also added a tip in a thunderous 2 handed dunk. “I always could do a 2 handed dunk”, smiled Julius Messer. However ratiopharm ulm still had one punch in them totally shocking Frankfurt with a 11-1 run to snatch the lead back at 88-87 with 18 seconds remaining. In the run, the guests were led by Jordan Mueller who had 8 points including 2 three´s from each corner. “Mueller played very well. He is so quick and hit big three´s”, stated Jamie Edoka. “We made some defensive mistakes. We didn´t defend well on Mueller. We were already mentally secure with the win”, said Ivan Crnjac. With 18 seconds to play, Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had possession and Ivan Crnjac made the finger tip lay in for the 89-88 lead. “I broke out of the play. I felt good making that lay in with the spin. I actually tried that before from the other side during the Top 4”, stated Ivan Crnjac. “Ivan showed what kind of a great individual abilities he has. He was there for the team making that big basket”, said Thore Bethke. Ratiopharm Ulm had possession with 3,7 seconds to play, but Julius Messer made the big defensive game deflecting the ball to his teammate to end the game. “Julius had a great week of practice. He made a big steal. He had a great game and was mentally tough”, stressed Thore Bethke. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 34 points while Namori Omog added 20 points and Ivan Crnjac had 18 points and ratiopharm Ulm was led by Jordan Mueller with 22 points while Niko Jerkic had 14 pointzs and Oliver Kullamae added 11 points. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 49% from the field and 20% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 4 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 45% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 37 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Justin Anderson (FC Barcelona) Will Never Forget The Talks With Dirk Nowitzki On Plane Rides Or His Teammates Shouting Stay Down And Don’t Jump Against Kobe Bryant

Pic credit: FC Barcelona

Justin Anderson (198-G/F-1993, college: Virginia, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 31 year old 198cm forward from Maryland playing his 10th professional season and first with FC Barcelona Lassa (ACB) currently averaging 8,5ppg and 2,8rpg in the ACB and 6,8ppg and 2,8rpg in the Euroleague. He played parts of 6 seasons in the NBA with teams playing a total of 257 games for teams like Dallas, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Brooklyn, Cleveland and Indiana. Last season was his first overseas playing with Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-ACB) averaging 11.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 89.3%; and in the Euroleague averaged 6.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.8apg, 2.3spg, 1.0bpg, in Dec.’23 moved to Valencia Basket (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 8.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT-1 (91.9%), 2.2rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.2%. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian school and then played with the University of Virginia from 2012-2015.He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with FC Barcelona. What kind of an experience has it been? What has been the coolest experience you have had off the court?

I have to be honest that I don’t do much off the court. I’m very generic. I live close to the beach at home so I would have to say going to the beach.

In the NBA you saw all the cities and now in your second Euroleague season many historic cities. Currently your in Berlin. Has there been a city in Europe that has impacted you most?

This question makes me realize just how much of a basketball head I am. I’m used to the bus to the hotel to the gym routine. I enjoyed being in Greece, but also our trip to Bologna . I got some authentic food for my wife. It was enjoyable

It hasn’t been a great season for FC Barcelona. In the ACB and Euroleague fighting for the playoffs. What does the team have to do better in next weeks to get more wins?

We just have to continue to take the next step.

How talented is Italian player Dame Sarr? Are you like a mentor to him?

He is very talented, but already been a pro for 1-2 years. We all just try to be a good teammate for him. He has a very bright future. He has a great work ethic. He has to wait his turn.

You are playing at the highest level overseas in the ACB and Euroleague. Is the NBA still an option for you in the future?

You will have to ask some of the scouts. I’m really enjoying my opportunity overseas with FC Barcelona. My talent and experience got me here. I’m continuing my journey overseas and continue to be presented with good opportunities I’m a kind of focus on now guy.

Last season you played with 2 ACB teams. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I didn’t have a wake up call. I was already 30 years old. I think that I did a good job coming in and preparing for overseas basketball. I asked a lot of questions to legends who had played overseas. When I go overseas, I hit the ground running and was ready.

You played 3 years at the University of Virginia winning the ACC title and reaching the big dance. How did head coach Tony Bennet groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Bennett made me have to earn everything as a freshman. I came to Virginia as a very high recruited player. He told me already in high school that I would have to work hard for everything. I always had to prove myself. He also helped me go into the direction of coaching one day. He motivated so much to go that direction one. My dad was a coach. So in a way, I have 2 dads with my dad and Tony Bennett as a father figure.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malcolm Brogdon?

Malcolm used to destroy me in school. He was more the fundamental player and I was very athletic. I liked showing the highlight plays. He got the best of then, but in the pro’s it was a different story. I’m really happy how he has grown as a player over the years especially with his leadership going form team to team and being a great leader.

You played your first 2 seasons in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks playing 106 games. What do you remember from your first NBA game against the Phoenix Suns scoring a basket in 3 minutes of action?

I remember sitting at the end of the bench and just waiting for the most part of the game. I remember making a lay up in transition. It was then that I realized wow this just happened.

You were teammates with German Dirk Nowitzki. Everyone who played with him have their special story. What is yours?

There isn’t just 1 story. He is a legend and the whole globe knows it. I just call him 6 as the sixth all-time leading scorer. He had a strong appeal on me especially with his work ethic. He had so much humility and was always available to me. I remember sitting next to him on the plane and I would try to soak up so much from him. I learned so much from him and also his trainer Holger especially about the art of shooting.

In your 8th pro game, you lost to the Lakers 90-82 and witnessed Kobe Bryant score 19 points. It was the only time you would play against him. Is that one of those games that will always stick with you?

He gave a lot of points to Wes Matthews. I was only responsible for 2 points. I just tried to prepare as much as I could seeing how he moved and worked on the floor before I came in. That way I would be prepared. I remember my teammates telling me stay down and don’t jump. He was so calm. In the first possession he didn’t do much except pass the ball. I was like Ok that wasn’t hard. In the second possession, it was something different that wasn’t major, but then on the third possession he showed his game by picking and choosing his spots so well. He drew the foul on me and went to the free throw line so focused never looking at me. I remember the whole bench yelling at me, ‘Rook don’t jump. His aura is so great. I’m a Lebron guy, but you have to respect everything that Kobe did especially at the end of his career. He retired, then won an Oscar and did so much in the finance world. It was so sad to lose him.

You played against so many great NBA players, but who was the toughest player that you battled at your position?

Jamal Crawford would dance with the ball. He was so unorthodox with his game. JJ Reddick was also tough.

Where do you rate the over the car dunk from Mac McClung at the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest?

Mac Is from Virginia like me. I have known him since his high school days. I think that dunk a few weeks ago cemented him as a top 3 dunker of all-time. He is undeniable in the top 3 if you were to put all his dunks together.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 16

Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats Malik on the huge 121-57 win. How important was this win going ino the last weeks of the regular season?

This win was very important, especially coming back from losing 2 in a row.

How proud were of the team that they didn´t underestimate the team who was missing some key guys?

I was very proud of the team. That showed a lot of character from us. We could’ve just messed around and took that team for granted but everyone played with energy and intensity from start to finish.

You didn´t play. How is the status of your injury? When can you suit up again?

Been doing rehab work on it past couple weeks so I’m trying to be ready for this coming up game.

The score was decided at the break as the RheinStars led 64-31. Did it seem at times like it was men playing against boys?

Well you could tell they had younger guys or guys who don’t play as much playing big minutes and we took advantage of that during the game by not letting them get too much confidence during the game.

Is it fair to say that the RheinStars played a consistent game for 40 minutes. The team allowed only 10 points in the fourth quarter and finished the game strong.

I think we did have a consistent game. I think everyone who played gave good minutes and brought great energy when they were on the floor.

The Rheinstars did so much well. They dominated the boards, had 30 assists and 16 steals. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night?

The defense was great. I feel we were disruptive with our on ball defense

Rower and Hennen combined for 9 points and Remagen and Michels for 41 points. What does that say for the team depth?

With this team it could be anyone’s night any game. We have multiple guys who can score the ball.

You next play Orange Academy who you beat 91-76 on September 28th 2024. What will be key to sweeping the season series?

If we play with the effort and energy we had this past game I think we should be able to take care of business.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

 It Was A No Brainer For Danas Kazakevicius To Join The Dragons Rhondorf As Leon Bulic´s Said Danas You Have To Do It 

Danas Kazakevicius (207-PF-2005, agency: Highlight Athletes) is a 19 year old 206cm power forward from Lithuania playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf currently averaging 11,9ppg, 8,2rpg, and 1,3apg. He came to Germany ín 2021 and played with the at Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10,2ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 67.6%. In 2022-2023 he continued to paly with the Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.8ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 59.0%, FT: 75.5% and also played with BBC Coburg averaging 3,4ppg and 2,4rpg. Last season his roles grew with BBC Coburg (Germany-ProB) averaging 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2% and with Brose Bamberg / Troester Breitenguessb. U19 Team (Germany-NBBL) averaged 21.7ppg, Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Danas for talking to germanhoops.com.. Did you sense a winning culture mentality when you arrived in 2024?

Yes I did. Many guys remained and they are hungry to win again. My goal is to win a title. First we win as much as possible in the regular season and then see what happens in the playoffs.

You came from a very well known program Bamberg to Rhondorf. It seems like a step back, but you don´t think it is. Why?

I really believe it´s not a step back, but a step forward. I want to keep improving my individual skills and think I can do it best in Rhondorf.

Ex Head coach Stephan Dohrn was very high on your qualities. What were the main reasons for signing with the Dragons Rhondorf?

I think the whole package fit for me. I like the communication between BBL team and Dragons as well as seeing how well the Dragons organization works and of course the great fan support.

How did the first talks go with coach Dohrn? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

I really like his mentality. For him the small details are very important. He always wants to make everything as perfect as possible. If anything is wrong, he always wants to explain and fix it. My playing style fits his coaching style.

Before we talk about your game, please talk a little about your childhood in Lithuania. Who were your basketball idols growing up?

Domantas Sabonas, Jonas Valanciunas and Kobe Bryant

How vital were the first years in Lithuania for your basketball? Was there a coach or person that influenced you the most?

I can´t name just one. There were many that influenced me and still help me with my game during the summers.

You came to the Bamberg program in 2021. How did the contact come to Bamberg and why did you chose to go there?

A Bamberg coach saw me play in Lithuania and I was invited to a tryout. I was there 3-4 days and they liked my game.

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

People compare me to Domantas Sabonis, but I´m a bit smaller.

You’re a big man that fills the stat sheet very well. Would you classify yourself as a classic modern day big man?

I´m not a typical big man, but play the 4/5 position. It really doesn´t matter if I play the 4/5, because in today´s game they do the same job.

You can do so much offensively and are very quick and mobile for 206cm. What do you think is your biggest strength on the court?

I´m a big man that likes to run the court and I like to pass the ball. I can pretty much do many things really well, but not one thing best.

You’re a very good rebounder. What do you still need to improve with your rebounding?

I need better timing and knowing where the ball will bounce off the rim. I can also improve boxing out and knowing where the ball will land.

You only attempted 4 three´s in the Pro B last season. Do you plan to implement your three more into your game?

I hope so. I have worked all summer on my three pointer. I have spoked to coach Stephan and they want to add my three to the game plan.

Do you feel like your defensive skills are still raw? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

You will have to ask coach what kind of a defender I am right now. In the future I want to be able to switch 1-5 and have no problems with mismatches. I want to become a very mobile defender.

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

I´m working on all areas of my game, but mostly on being able to make quicker decisions.

You came to Bamberg in 2021 and played NBBL. What do you remember being your wake up call to being in Germany where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was 15 years old when I came. The first months were tough. I was confused about how my life would work there. I was far from home and scared about the language problem. But after time, my teammates made me feel comfortable and it felt like a second home.

In 2021 you played in the U-17 World Cup and saw the massive talent Cooper Flag put up 5/6 stats in 17 minutes. What memories do you have from him them? He recently practiced with Team USA before the Olympics.

At that time, people were already talking about him. He was a silent boy and doing a lot of the dirty work on the court. It was nice to play him. He looks like he will be the #1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft.

In your second season and first with Coburg, you were teammates with Leon Bulic. How vital was he for you that season? How did he help you most to grow?

We were close. We had a type of bond in that he came from Croatia and I from Lithuania. We battled every day in practice. It was always difficult to paly against him. I surely annoyed him at times with my fouls and he complained. However we are still friends to this day. When I asked him if I should go to Rhondorf, he said Danas you have to do it.

Last season your game rose as in the Pro B you averaged 7.6ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP-3 (70.6%), FT: 79.2%, and in the NBBL with Bamberg averaged (21.7ppg), Reb-5 (9.7rpg), 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 66.3%. How did your game grow last season?

My game grew in the NBBL. I had a huge role in the NBBL while in the Pro B, I was a big fighting for minutes. When the NBBL season ended, I focused more on the Pro B and I was able to step up my game.

You had to incredible games against Rhondorf and FC Munich 2 scoring 25 points a piece and shooting combined 20/23. What game was better?

Well we did lose both games. I think my game against Rhondorf was the better game. I was playing against my old teammate Tyrese Blunt and a top team with Rhondorf.

Who is the toughest player that you ever played against in your life that reached the NBA?

There are too many to name. I played against many tough BBL players

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

All my teammates in the Bamberg youth teams.

What is your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Doncic, Nowtzki

Paul and Marc Gasol, Guershon Yabusele, Rudy Fernandez

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Danas for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola Knows That The Dragons Rhondorf Have The Talent For The Playoffs And Now Need To Come Together And Get It Done

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27year old 183cm point guard that is playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf helping them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 97-81 win over Team Ehingen.

Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?

Hey Miles, thank you for having me as always. The FIBA Break was very chill for me, I didn’t do too much. I stayed here in Bad Honnef just working out and enjoying the time off.

How vital was the Fiba Break for the Dragons Rhondorf. Did the team do some soul searching?

It was huge! It gave us some much needed rest and time off, while also getting a good amount of practices together with the entire team.

The loss in Speyer was very disappointing. Did the team have the feeling going into the Ehingen game that that can’t happen again?

Yes, we knew this game was a must win. We need to defend our home court and we want to make the playoffs. That started by us getting this win vs. Ehingen.

Congrats on the massive 97-81 win over Ehingen. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?

We knew we had to come out with high energy and intensity. The past few games we got out to terrible starts and dug ourselves huge holes. Trying to overcome a 15 point lead is extremely tough and gives you no room for error if you want to make a comeback. So getting out to a great start to set the tone for the game was our mindset and game plan.

Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. Jaylin Alston scored the first 10 points., You guys must have been aware that he scored 47 points in the last game against the RheinStars. What was the game plan on him?

Yeah he’s a tough cover. He has an extremely high motor and is very athletic, so we knew it would take a team effort to defend him.

What made it most difficult to slow him down? Is he the definition of an incredible walking bucket?

He plays extremely hard and his motor is second to none. Those attributes along with his athleticism, you see why he’s a great scorer. You just have to be ready to guard him as a team in order to slow him down.

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving the team the most problems on the defensive end?

Alston was the only issue. He had 27 at the half if I’m not mistaken, that’s too many points for anyone to have. Let alone in a half. We just have to be ready to box out, rebound, and protect the paint.

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second half. What adjustments did the team make?

We just continued to trust not only the gameplay, but each other. We were flying around defensively, had excellent ball movement, crashed the glass on both ends.

The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. How proud were you that the team had no let up down the stretch?

I loved it Miles, we kept playing until the buzzer said 0:00. We need to do that every game, no matter what the score is.

The team had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. What was the team’s biggest strength on the night?

Our biggest strength on the night was our continuity. We played together and as a team for the entire game. From the starters to the second unit, everyone came in and played with high energy and focus.

The Dragons Rhondorf had 6 guys scoring in double figures. The balance was there. How in sync is the offense now at this crucial stage of the season?

Our offense is starting to come together Miles. We implemented some new concepts under Coach Marko which is helping our offense. We just need to keep building and get more adjusted to the new system.

Kenan Reinhart had one of his best games this season with 14 points in 13 minutes being very efficient. Is he slowly breaking out of his shell? It must be tough always getting up and down minutes?

Yes Kenan had a great game! He’s a really good player who has a ton of potential. He’s always confident and I love it. It’s definitely tough for any player but everyone goes through it throughout their basketball journey. It’s only going to make him a better player as time goes on.

How proud are you of Tim Smith rebounding the way he did after his goose egg in Speyer with 16 points. His dominant game isn’t there like in the first 2 months. Do you help him with self-confidence?

Tim is a great player, he doesn’t need any help with confidence. He is extremely skilled, athletic, elite shot maker, I can keep going. He’ll be playing in higher level leagues very, very soon.

Antomio Pilipovic also had a solid game after a few tough games where he didn’t score in double figures. How has he grown in general as a person now having that double function as player and boss in the Dragons office?

Yeah AP is balancing the GM position and player position very well. He’s definitely grown as a leader, but he’s still the same AP which is great.

You had a strong game with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 8 dimes. How content were you with your effort despite 2 turnovers?

I loved how I played. I’m not even concerned about the stats but I loved how my energy and intensity was from the beginning of the game. I wanted to make an impact defensively and help us start the game strong.

Your minutes have been down a bit in the last months, but you had another 30 minute game. How is your relationship with new head coach Marko Zarkovic?

It’s good! Coach Marko is a great guy, professional, and I’ve really enjoyed being able to work with him. He’s doing whatever it takes to help us win games and make the playoffs.

What is your biggest goal now as a player in the last 6 regular season games? Your leadership will be crucial for the team to reach the playoffs.

The biggest goal Miles is to defend our home court, and try and steal a few road games. We need to do this so we can get into the playoffs. We have the team to do so, we just need to go and execute it!

The club next plays top team Leitershofen that beat you 115-105 in OT. How excited are you to see Ferenc Gille again?

It’s going to be great to see Ferenc again! He’s such a great guy, I love Ferenc and I loved being his teammate last season. He was a major piece in us winning the championship last season. And of course, us winning a championship gives us a bond that we’ll always have!

The Dragons Rhondorf can’t be up and down, but need a great performance. How aware are you that a win could really change the season around?

I’m very aware Miles. We have the talent to do so, we just need to come together as a unit and get it done! We all want to make the playoffs and that’s our goal. One game at a time.

What will be key to beating top team leitershofen?

They have a great team this season, we need to continue to play together and come out with an energy/intensity that will set the tone for the game.

Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk dunk by Mac McClung?

Mac is an elite dunker, you can see why he’s won the contest 3 times in a row. But I hope next year we get the NBA stars in the contest like Zion, Ja, etc.

Thanks Kelvin for the chat.

Tuukka Kotti Will Always Be Thankful For Gordon Herbert In Turning Around His Career And Getting Back To Working Hard And Focusing On The Right Things

One thing is for sure, I always knew that Gordon Herbert was an excellent coach. I mean I covered his Frankfurt Skyliners teams for more than a decade so I must know. I didn´t know in 2004 when he helped the Opel Skyliners win their first BBL title, but years later when he came back and continued to form winning Skyliner teams and help young Germans develop further, I knew that he was something special. That he became World champion coach in 2023 with Germany was no surprise to me. Herbert is a very special coach who simply knows how to develop team chemistry, let each player have a real special role and use it and most important helps players with the mental side. His players have come to appreciate his coaching ways the last 20 years. It is no surprise, that his name has often been mentioned in my interviews with his former players. Some of his former players remarks about him were so powerful that I used their words in my titles. I looked back in my article archive and found 6 players where I had Gordon Herbert in the title with guys like Mario Kasun, Justin Cobbs, Garai Zeeb, Jason Clark, Tyrone Ellis and Richard Williams. It wasn´t any different with his ex player Finish dinosaur Tuukka Kotti (205-PF-1981, college: Providence) who is 43 and still playing professionally in 2025. He played briefly for Herbert in 2009 before he returned to Frankfurt to take over for Murat Didin and lead the team to the 2010 final “I have always admired Gordie as a coach. He turned my career around in that half a season I was with him. He got me back to working hard and being focused on the right things. I will always be thankful for that. No surprise, that he has reached that level as coach”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He has had such an amazing career that has spanned 20 years that if someone had told him in 2006, that he would still be playing, it would have been difficult to believe it. “Even in 2014 after the World Cup I thought I only had a couple more seasons left. 2006 it would have been hard to believe for sure. There is really no other job I would rather do so I have decided to play as long as I am able to compete at this level. I am really humbled and grateful that God has blessed me with such a long career. I have stayed healthy throughout most of my career. Hard work, enough sleep/rest, and balanced diet. It is a simple recipe”, said Tuukka Kotti.

Tuuka Kotti who names Troy Bell, Caron Butler, Chris Paul, Ben Gordon, and David Lee as his toughest opponents in the NCAA and in Europe Milos Teodosic and Keith Langford currently plays for Tapiolan Honka. He began his career with FoKopo and then played with the Salon Vilpas (Korisliiga) averaging 15.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.7apg in 2000. He is content that basketball has changed so much in the last 24 years. “The game was slower and tactically not as advanced as it is today. Coaching in Finland has developed a lot and it shows also in Korisliiga. In all areas I think. Biggest thing that stands out to me is the spacing of the game. Outside shooting has improved and teams are shooting more threes so it opens up the game more”, commented Tuukka Kotti. He went to the States in 2001 and played 4 years and 116 NCAA games for Providence College. He never averaged more than 10,0ppg in a season and as a senior played 31 games and averaged 9.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3Pts: 30.3%. Back in those days, it was rare to see a Finish player play in the NCAA. “There were some players from Finland who had taken that route, for example Hanno Möttölä. Also playing in the US had for years been a dream of mine so it was an easy decision I did struggle my freshman year getting adjusted to the culture and the different style of play”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. There was a legend that he came to USA as a point guard and returned to Finland 4 years later as a center. Did he have extra Mcdonalds visits in those 4 years? Partly true, but the story has been exaggerated quite a bit over the years. I did play the different guard positions before college. Some PG as well. In college I was playing mostly in the wing and I developed in to a really good defensive player through those years. Defensively I was used in all positions but on offense I played more off ball than I was used to. I really moved closer to the basket when I turned pro and I had started to struggle with my outside shooting. That’s why teams wanted to play me first more at the 4 spot and eventually at the 5”, expressed Tuukka Kotti. He reached a NCAA tournament in 2004 and won´t forget it. “It was really fun! I had an opportunity to play against some really high level competition in the Big East. Also we practiced really hard which I enjoyed. And I got meet and build relationships with some people I cherish to this day. Were there things that I wish I would have worked on more or received more coaching with, absolutely. But overall, my college years were great. March madness was great, but it’s bitter sweet for me because we had an amazing season that year but got knocked out of the tournament in the first round”, added Tuukka Kotti.

The big man who lists Petri Virtanen, Shawn Huff, Chris Anrin, Maris Laksa, and David Gonzalvez as his best teammates of all-time had many incredible games in the NCAA including a 16/7/6 game in a win against Georgetown that had incredible guys like Rudy Gay, Charlie Villenueva, or Marcus Williams and in other games played against Emeka Okafor and Ben Gordon. “That one was a big one. All the games against UConn were memorable. They had some amazing teams and we were usually able to get the best out of our team against them. One game that I always look back on was our game at Notre Dame at the end of my freshman year. I had not played a lot during that year, and having a big game there really gave me confidence going into my second season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. He had amazing teammates who later came overseas with Marcus Douhit, John Linehan and Ryan Gomes, all guys he won´t ever forget. “Marcus was amazing. Great player and great personality. He was really a big key to our success covering the middle of our 2-3 zone. Had quite a few of my shots blocked by Marcus too in practice. John set the tone for sure. He was a senior when I came in and I was really influenced by his leadership and how hard he worked. I have never played with a better defender in my career. Ryan was the same class and it was such a privilege to see him develop and become a star. He was an amazing player and just like John, he put the work in. All the greats do”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned to Europe and played his first 3 seasons in Italy with Ignis Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10/6 and 11/6 and Noi Sport Monte Terminillo Rieti (Italy-Serie A). “I fell in love with Italy right away. I have some great memories from there and would love to go back and visit soon. Basketball was really good. There were tons of talent in Serie A and LegaDue. Also, always loved the passion of the Italian basketball fans.”, said Tuukka Kotti, He reached the Serie A in his third season but only averaged 2,1ppg. It was tough breaking into the rotation with guys like Pape Sow and Wade Helliwell. “That was a difficult year for me. Playing behind those guys and Leroy Hurd, who had a monster season that year. I broke in the rotation and got big minutes after Pape Sow got sold to Poland. Unfortunately I broke my hand, pretty soon after and missed almost the rest of the season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. The Serie A at that time was already showcasing amazing players and you could always have a wow effect with a player each weekend. “My team mate Morris Finley was amazing throughout the season. And also Gianmarco Pozzecco. I remember them beating us at our place and him coming to our locker room after the game shaking everyone’s hands. That took a lot of courage”, stressed Tuukka Kotti.

The Finish native who names Luka, MJ, Kobe, Lebron, and Jokic on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore then played a season with Etendard de Brest (France-ProB) averaging 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 57.4%. “Pro B was very different from Lega Due. More up and down and athletic. Personally I had a difficult season there and didn’t play as well as I was capable of”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 2 seasons with the Honka Espoo Playboys (Korisliiga) averaging 12/9 and 16/10 winning 2 cups. “That second year our team was really good! One of the best that I have played in. We had size, great outside shooting and defensively we were really tough. After winning the cup we lost Coach Herbert for health reasons and Corey Belser left for Ukraine. After that the team wasn’t the same”, added Tuukka Kotti. He was teammates with so many interesting guys like Jamar Wilson, Carl Lindbom, Sasu Salin, Juka Matinean, and Tuomas Iisalo. Did he already notice that winning coach in Iisalo as something that could happen? “We had some great players for sure. Tuomas has always had a very curious and analytical personality. Also a real passion for the game. But yes, absolutely it has been surprising how far he has reached in such a short period of time. Amazing story. I am really proud of him”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Italy for 3 seasons and played with Naturhouse Ferrara (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10.9ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 43.5% and with Aget Service Imola (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 57.5%, FT: 46.4% and with Vanoli Cremona (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.0ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 48.9%. He finally got more of a chance in the Serie A and was teammates with special player Shawn Huff who also played under Gordon Herbert. “It was great to be back in Italy those years and in Cremona had an opportunity to play against some amazing competition. Shawn and I are really close and the Cremona year is only a small part of everything we have experienced together. He is an amazing player and a person”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Finland in 2012 and never left again except for a season in Germany. He played 3 seasons with the Nilan Bisons Loimaa (Finland-Korisliiga) putting up consistent stats as always and having a stellar Eurocup season. Did you become home sick? “Not really. There was a great opportunity to play Eurocup in Loimaa, which is right next to my hometown Forssa, and I felt like that was great situation for me. It’s really hard to describe these three years. I have so many great memories and I loved my time at Loimaa. At the same time we played the last two years in the VTB-league on top of Korisliiga, which totaled to about 70 regular season games plus playoffs. Needless to say those years were very demanding mentally and physically. The tough competition in Eurocup, VTB and also Korisliiga did help me to develop and I feel those years matured me as a player quite a bit”, commented Tuukka Kotti. It was never boring in the season that Jacob Burtschi was his teammate. “I love Jake! He made our taxing season so much lighter with his personality. We were constantly competing with him. Half court shots, playing cards on the road. It was real good times”, remembered Tuukka Kotti.

For the ex Finish national player who lists Jesus Christ and Michael Jordan as his GOAT then played a season with the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 62.3%, FT: 70.8% and played for Tuomas Iisalo. One would have thought it was a no brainer to play there. “It wasn’t a no brainer at that point. I was actually on my way to Joensuun Kataja, but ended up eventually in Crailsheim. I would say Tuomas was still developing his identity as a coach at that point. While he was already a good coach, I could not have predicted him succeeding that fast. One thing I noticed and appreciate in Tuomas is that he really insists on the things he believes in. And he will always give you a reason why”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 5 seasons with the Helsinki Seagulls (Korisliiga) winning 3 cups. He had his best stat season in his first season and another good season followed. Had he reached his prime at age 36? “There is for sure some truth to that. I think I played some of my best basketball those years and also in Eurobasket 2017. I hope it can serve as an encouragement to other players, that one can still develop at a later stage of their career”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played for the talented is Jussi Laakso as a coach. He didn´t follow in the foot steps of Iisalo in Crailsheim, but like him has a knack for finding guards off the radar like Trae Bell-Haynes and Kendale McCullum and helping them make the next step. “Jussi is a great coach and great leader. He did an amazing job recruiting and putting together some of those teams. Jussi is very humble and eager to learn more, and it’s been great to see how he builds winning cultures everywhere he goes”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then played the last 2 years with Tapiolan Honka and won the league title last season and will play there a third season. It seemed like he continued to be reunited with Carl Lindbom. Will he end his career there? “It’s hard to make any promises at this point. It’s totally in God’s hands, but I would love to finish my career here. This is a great organization with some amazing people, and I’m grateful to be a part of it”, stated Tuukka Kotti. Not too forget, he has been a member of the Finish national team over the years. He has seen Finish basketball take on a massive development in this period. “It has been like night and day. When I started with the NT we had no clear direction and we were lacking confidence. In the last 20 years there has been a big culture change in our programs and also what’s changed is that we believe in ourselves. The coaching in Finland has developed a ton and both players and coaches are more valued now around the world. We have a bright future”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played against USA at the 2014 World Cup and suffered a brutal 114-55 loss against USA where he had 6 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and a block. The Finish team was pretty talented then with guys like Murphy, Koivisto,Koponen, Salo, Huff and himself while Team USA had superstars like had Curry, Irving, Rose, Davis and Harden just to name a few. There was not one USA player that stood out for him most. “That was the most memorable game of my career! 10K Finnish fans in the arena and going against some NBA greats. It was a dream come true. Only a few years before that we were dreaming to play in the Eurobasket and all of a sudden we are here. I told the guys after the game in our locker room, that I have never before enjoyed getting my butt kicked. Not one player, but in general how fast they played, and the talent combined with speed and athleticism. It was really impressive”, remembered Tuukka Kotti who didn´t see the sequel to the classic Coming To America as the original can´t be topped. He has seen it all in the last 20 years and will always have enough stories to tell all.

Marco Rahn Played With Legends Allen, Mcelroy and Jenkins Against Berlin The Place He Had Watched Them As A Kid With Alba Berlin

photo credit: ochsenfoto.de

Marco Rahn (199-PF-1998) is a 26 year old 199cm forward playing his first season with German pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 8,9ppg, 6,7rpg and 1,7apg.. He began his career with BG 94 Schwedt and then played with the Jena organization from 2013-2018 playing 4 easyCredit BBL games. He then played a season with Essen and then 4 seasons with BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) playing 87 Pro B games and in his last 2 seasons averaged 10.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 82.3% and 12.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 68.1%. Last season he played with BBC Bayreuth playing 34 games and averaging 3.5ppg, 2.6rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks Marco for talking to germanhoops.com. You have a new challenge with pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization?

It has been a good experience. It was a little adjustment coming from the Pro A to Pro B, but I was welcomed with open arms and I have great teammates.

After being in the Pro B for 5 years, you last season played in the Pro A with Bayreuth. Now your back in the Pro B? Why did you take a step back?

I knew early on this summer that I wouldn´t have a big role in Bayreuth so we decided to cancel the contract. I didn´t have any other real offers from Pro A teams, so I decided to go to the Pro B and move to a team that had big ambitious like the Dragons had and maybe be able to move up.

You stated in the Dragons Rhondorf press release that your goals and vision were the same with head coach Stephan Dohrn. What else was really enticing about joining this organization?

We both understood each other very well. He felt like the Dragons would be a good opportunity where I could practice a lot and work on my game. The goal is the playoffs.

What have you learned to appreciate most about the coaching philosophy most of coach Dohrn?

I like his idea to play hard defense. I think this philosophy is vital for a team that have ambitions to win a title.

How important is having that big leadership role with the Dragons? You were captain of Sandersdorf and now have that chance to be a real leader.

I was a leader with Sandersdorf. I showed what I could do in Sandersdorf as a leader. It was brought up in the talks that I would be a leader with Omojola and Pililpovic. I want to be one of the guys that helps the team get as far as possible.

The team isn´t as big as last year. Does this put extra pressure on your game to be more physical and active in the paint area?

I played the 5 in Sandersdorf. Small ball can function in the Pro B. I think that small ball has it´s advantages especially when bigs make the game slower.

What has it been like being teammates with Danas Kazakevicius? Are you like a mentor for him?

No not yet. I try to help everyone with their game. I have a lot of experience having practiced with BBL teams. I think that having that possible mentor role with Danas will come with time. Players still have to find their find their games

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 199cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would bets fit the description?

I have never compared myself to another player. I see myself as a 3 and D player that can post up.

You are a very versatile player and are consistent. Are these 2 traits your biggest strengths on the court?

Yes I think that is accurate. I won´t ever be that 20/10 player, but moreover that player that holds a team together. I feel like I can fit in to many types of systems.

Your also a good three point shooter. Do you feel like you may take more three´s in the Dragons System or less mainly to help out more inside?

I think that will show with time. It is hard to say. It will depend on how our opponents play.

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

I feel like I´m a versatile defender. I think that I can defend 2-5 and some point guards in the Pro B. I want to become more consistent as a defender and also keep the good Americans under their averages. They have to realize that it will be no fun playing against me.

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

I´m working most on being able to finish better.

You played in the Science City Jena organization from 2013-2018. How important was this time for your early basketball development? Was there a coach that helped you most?

One of my favorite coaches ever was Torsten Rothamel. He was my U-16 coach and pushed me a lot. I am thankful for having played for Bjoern Harmsen. He gave me a chance to play BBL and he taught me what it meant to be a professional.

In the 2016-2017 season there were legends Julius Jenkins and Immanuel Mcelroy on the team as well as other great players like Wayne Bernard and John Little. What memories do you have of them and was there a guy that influenced you most?

They all influenced me. It was incredible to see how well Jenkins and Mcelroy still played at their age at a high level. Derrick Allen helped me the most. He would take me to the side and give me tips. I will never forget a practice where I had my absolute worst shooting day. I missed everything. We played a lot of 5-5 and in the last game, I hit the game winning shot. Allen then told me that is how you have to do it. Never be afraid to take that last shot. All that counts was making the last shot. Nobody will remember you missing all the shots before.

You played 4 BBL games and 12 minutes. Was there any particular moment that you won´t forget from those games?

I will never forget playing with Allen, Jenkins and Mcelroy in the O2 arena with Jena. I had watched them as kid as they played with Alba Berlin. Now I was teammates with them with Jena and playing in Berlin against Alba with them. That was a great moment.

You then played a season in Essen. How tough was it coming from Jena and not getting minutes? You had some really experienced Americans with Flomo and Calvin.

It was tough to lose so much, but I also learned a lot. It was important to see how a veteran like Flomo could handle defeat in such a long season.

You then played 4 seasons with Sandersdorf. How valuable was this time in your basketball development? You must of liked it because you remained in the Pro B. Was there no ambition for higher leagues?

Playing with Sandersdorf was one of the best times in my life. Of course I had ambitions to go to higher leagues. One has to remember that at time, it was Covid. But I was comfortable there and had security. At that time, nobody really knew how Covid would end.

You played a season with Mr triple double Donte Nicholas. He is one of those guys that never got a real chance in higher leagues. Shouldn´t he have deserved it?

Well he did play Pro A. He was a great player. I think that a lot of the time, it depends on if a player fits into a system

Last season you played with Pro A team BBC Bayreuth. You got 17 minutes and averaged 3,5 minutes. This was another tough season. You didn´t have freedom there? Weren´t you allowed to take more shots? There was a span during the season where in 6 games you took only 11 shots. That is little.

At the start my role was seen as getting 15 minutes. The system in Bayreuth simply didn´t fit my game. My role was to be a 3 and D player. I think that the team wasn´t put together well where each player could show their strength. It wasn´t the best season for me, but I also didn´t always show my best game.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life?

Robin Benzing

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There are too many to name.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Shaq, Jordan, Lebron, Vince Carter

Who is your GOAT?

Vince Carter was always my favorite player. Today my Goat is Lebron and back in day Jordan.

Thanks Marco for the chat.

Pure Scorer Scott Stone(TSV 1861 Nordlingen) Continues To Grind And Feels Like His Best Basketball Is Still Ahead of Him

Even if he goes by the name of Scott Stone (193-G-1995, college: St.Cloud St.), he is listed as Scott Stone on the world´s biggest basketball portal eurobasket.com and for some that special basketball bible as it currently has almost 1 million player profiles. If your looking for a baller no matter if in the NBA, the back woods of Europe or somewhere in Africa, you are sure to find him or her there. I had come across the name Scott Stone maybe a year or two earlier and had wanted to interview him, but for some reason had forgot. That happens with me when your interviewing players daily all around the world. It wasn´t until a few days ago where I was reminded about Stone in an email from a German basketball follower named Gerd. After getting some positive feedback for my work of covering all leagues in Germany and giving lesser known guys in lower leagues a platform, he preceded lauding Stone. His stats and play the last years in the Regionalliga in Germany more than warranted a look into his journey via the media. He is an American like so many overseas that is definitely way too good for having to grind in a fourth or fifth division. He has experience having played 3 seasons in Australia and 5 in lower leagues in Germany despite having a great NCAA 2 career. There are guys that didn´t have as good stats in division 2, but are playing in higher leagues overseas. As usual, he has a chip that is heaver on his shoulder than the burden the New York Knicks have had for more than 50 years to finally win a NBA title again. Some guys like a Shawn Scott and John Murry had to pay their dues for some years, but eventually moved up. How long can he still grind before moving up and does one have to love the game more than others to survive? “I mean I have a good agent now, and that is really the biggest thing is having an agent who is well connected and cares about your career so like I said I have my best basketball ahead of me and I’m just looking to enjoy the ride from here. I think a lot of guys love the game equally. We all grew up playing and it’s a kids game at the end of the day. I think to survive you need to have a great support system around you, and you got to have some luck with injuries and opportunities. It’s one of the most competitive job markets in the world and timing is everything. So being patient and staying healthy will take you a long way”, warned Scott Stone.

Scott Stone who lists former NBA players Matt Thomas and Deonte Burton as his toughest opponents in his basketball career was born on April 2, 1995 in Melrose, Minnesota. He began his basketball career at Melrose high school putting up explosive stats of 29.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg. He scored over 2,000 points breaking the school record held for 39 years by Mark Olberding. He also led Melrose to a 27-2 record and No. 1 state ranking during the 2012-13 season and also holds single game school record of 44 points. He picked up HS All-State Honorable Mention -2012, HS West Central Conference most valuable Player -2012, and 2013 and HS St. Cloud Times’ boys basketball Player of the Year -2013. But having a stellar high school career still wasn´t enough for the NCAA and he began paying his dues at St. Cloud State University (NCAA2). In his freshman year he averaged 6.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.8% and in his second season made a big jump averaging 13.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 82.4%. His game continued to take massive steps in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 19.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 82.4% and 17.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 93.2%. “My game grew with just more opportunity, and the coaching staff having more faith in me. The staff there during my time really helped me grow as a player and person and put me in situations that were perfect for my skill set at the time”, stressed Scott Stone. He had so many great games there like hitting Mary and Minn-Crookston for 32 points and Wayne St NE for 34 points, but there was actually another game that stood out most. “I would say beating Augustana my senior year on our home court. They were a powerhouse my entire career in college so it was awesome to sneak out a win against them my final season there”, remembered Scott Stone. In his last 2 seasons he scored in double figures in 45 of 48 games and scored 20 points or more in 22 games. All of his success wouldn´t have been possible without the guidance of head coach Matt Reimer. “He taught me a lot about being organized and being on a schedule and sticking to that schedule. He showed me the importance of producing night in and night out and put me in positions to do just that throughout my career. Our entire staff at the time there was great. Chad Welk and Mahmoud Abdelfattah both were also instrumental in getting my game to where it needed to be. Love all those dudes to this day”, stated Scott Stone.

The explosive scorer who lists Daryl Corletto, Josef Eichler, Jacob Gibson, Robin Seeberger and Andy Foley-my all-time favorite shooting partner, Connor Niehaus, James (Jimmy) Fort and Patrick Fischer as his best teammates of all-time came to Germany in 2020 and laced on his sneakers for Lich Basketball (Regionalliga 2). It isn´t always easy for Americans coming overseas and make the big transition and often players experience that wake up call where they realize just how far they are away from home. “That was a tough year because of Covid so I think everyone there was just doing the best we could with the options we had at the time. However, the lockdown was definitely taxing on the mind, but luckily I got to spend a lot of time with the strength coach at Lich, Michael Stephan. He spent hours of his own time helping me get my body where it needed to be, and that time really kickstarted my recent success so I’m beyond grateful for him”, commented Scott Stone. He then made the next step to TSV 1861 Nordlingen where he is currently in his fourth season. In his second season he helped the club move from the Regionalliga 2 to Regionalliga. “The very cool part about that team is that it is majority the same guys we have on the team today. Almost all our local players grew up and played for Nordlingen when they were kids. Guys like Robin Seeberger, Bene and Leo Schwarzenberger, Julius Kluger, Pascal Schöppel, Lukas Hahn, Jakob Scherer, and Thomas Hirsch were a part of that team and are still main pillars of the team we have today. The special part about the group we have is everyone has played with each other for years now. Everyone knows their roles and are stars in their roles which is hard for a lot of teams to accomplish. It’s why we are competing for playoff spots every season even with such a young team”, added Scott Stone. Over the years he has had so many great games, but nothing so far has beat his 51 point explosion against Haching where he nailed 13 three´s. “That was a crazy night. The entire team was sick with the flu including myself. We only had 7 players on the roster, but everyone that played in that game played with such heart. Robin Seeberger had a 20 and 20 night with points and rebounds as well, so just a massive group effort. Just one of those days I needed to have a good shooting day and luckily it worked out”, said Scott Stone. It has to be truly mindboggling for him knowing that Steph Curry´s NBA high in three´s is 13 just like his career high. “Well that’s the best shooter ever so if anyone can match the type of numbers he’s putting up I’d say that’s a major win”, laughed Scott Stone.

The Minnesota native who lists MJ LeBron Kobe 2004- NBA MVP Minnesota and Timberwolf-Kevin Garnett on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore certainly can call both Germany and Australia as second homes. “I’ve done 3 full seasons in Australia and 5 here in Germany. So both places have become quite comfortable for me to live in. Being familiar with guys, coaches, and teams in the league has made for some exciting matchups in both spots. However, above all the management and players here in Nordlingen have made it become like family so it’s a special place for me”, added Scott Stone. What younger basketball fans may not know is that Nordlingen actually played in the BBL more than 15 seasons ago. There is a special basketball tradition in Nordlingen. “I think what people don’t realize is how much the city and the people here love and appreciate good basketball. It’s been very cool to see the support especially for the local guys who grew up playing for the club”, said Scott Stone. Seeing Americans play for 1 Regionalliga team is rare, but the organization is just so special that leaving just isn´t in the cards. “It’s been a real honor to play for Nordlingen. They take gigantic pride in having played in the BBL and 2.Bundesliga and it shows with the management. It’s an extremely professionally run club. From our General Managers Moritz Pösl and Matthias Thienel who brought me in and gave me a real opportunity to build my career here in Germany and I’m forever indebted to them for that. We also have an extremely professional and highly respected coach in Ajtony Imreh. It has been an absolute pleasure playing for him. He knows the game at an extremely high level, but also knows how to manage guys and the players very much respect him for all he does. Both the management and coach have brought so much professionalism to the club so you can tell very quickly they appreciate the history of the club and want to continue the tradition here”, warned Scott Stone. A very big factor why he even came to Nordlingen was Josef Eichler who was on that BBL team in 2008 as a19 year old. “Josef is my brother. He’s one of the main reasons I wanted to come to Nordlingen in the first place. The guy is the ultimate professional in every sense of the word. Always shows up early, plays harder than anyone, and is consistent in his approach day in and day out. I’ve learned so much about being a professional from him both on and off the court. On top of that he’s genuinely one of the nicest guys you will find. I’m very thankful for his friendship and mentorship throughout the years”, stated Scott Stone. He won his first chip in Australia and played for 3 teams named Ringwood Hawks, Western Port Steelers and Hume City Broncos. “ It was a great experience down there. My first season I got to play with the best BigV dynasty of all-time the Ringwood Hawks. That 2018 team was some of the most fun I’ve ever had playing basketball. Veteran guys like Matt Fennell, Matty Snowball, Shaun Clarke, Nate Truman, Stefan Osborne and the young fellas Matty Roberts, Kaide Fittolani and Seb Lees made it extremely easy to play and win games down there. I also got to live with and learn from one of the best Americans to play there during that time Jacob Gibson. He taught me a ton during that year, and we had a blast both on and off the court together. I also had the privilege of playing with and under Daryl Corletto. One of the best shooters in Austrailan NBL history. He expanded my game more than anyone in my career. I tried to steal everything from his game, and pick his brain everyday together. He’s such an unbelievably skilled shooting guard, and I’m lucky to call him a friend and mentor to this day”, warned Scott Stone.

The guard who lists Kevin Garnett as his GOAT and believes that the classic Coming To America should have been left alone is a guard that compares his game to NBA legend Reggie Miller and Euroleague legend Sergio Llull. “Both guys are big time shot makers and play with some flare so I try to emulate that as best I can”, said Scott Stone. He is the ultimate walking bucket, but his game encompasses so much more than that. “I rebound well for my position, and I’m underrated passer. I can play out of the ball screen effectively and I would say finding guys out of the ball screen is one of my bigger strengths. I’ve worked to improve my defense as the years have gone by and this year I’m averaging close to 3 steals per game. I would say I’ve gradually become a more well-rounded player as I’ve gotten older”, stressed Scott Stone. He continues to be an incredible three point shooter and continues to grow as a defender. “I’ve always been a natural shooter. It was something that came very easy to me at a young age. I would say I’ve taken my game to a different level now with being able to shoot and make 3’s off the dribble at a high percentage, but I’ve always been a pretty elite catch and shoot guy from a young age. I would say I’ve just worked on my positioning and my anticipation has improved quite a bit. I’ve never been the fastest or quickest guy so defense has always been a struggle of mine but I’ve improved it significantly recently, and I think this will be a major impact on where my game goes in the future”, warned Scott Stone. Despite being 29 years old, he still has many years ahead of him to continue getting better and possibly making the next step up leagues. “I would say making the correct reads out of double teams. Whether that be in ball screen or iso situations just finding where the ball needs to be quickly. I’m a natural scorer so this has been an adjustment I’ve been working on improving lately”, added Scott Stone. He still has big goals and after winning a title in Australia, winning another in Nordlingen and moving up to the Pro B would be perfect for him. “I think that is on everyone’s mind here. We’ve had some injuries and roster movements that have made it tough at the beginning of the season but we’ve won 4 out of our last 5 and we are starting to play our best basketball at the right time”, warned Scott Stone. He won´t ever get a rest on his shoulder as his chip is always getting heavier. He has understood that every guy´s journey is different. His great teammate at St Cloud Gage Davis had similar stats to him, but has been balling in first divisions in Denmark and Finland the last years. “Oh Gage is a different animal. He’s a killer, and he’s deserved all the opportunities he had and will continue to have. For me I think I’ve gotten a lot better since college, and I needed to work on my game in the lower leagues to get to where I am now. But I have my best years ahead of me so I’m excited to see where basketball takes me here in the near future”, warned Scott Stone. Stone is a great player playing the game he loves for little in lower leagues. But even better than his game is his character. Being so humble and enjoying life can only be infectious to his teammates and people he touches in Nordlingen,