football

Caleb Bellach Remembers Harald Frey Being One Of The Most Supportive Teammates That He Ever Had

Caleb Bellach (201-F-2001, college: Montana Tech) is a 201cm forward from Manhattan, Montana that began his rookie season in Germany with Team Ehingen Urspring (Germany-ProB) but had to go after only 5 games averaging 5,6ppg and 3,0rpg in 18 minutes time. He began his basketball career at Manhattan Christian High School and then played 2 seasons and 28 NCAA games with Montana State University. He then finished at Montana Technological University (NAIA) playing 3 seasons and 82 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 75.3%, 17.7ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 79.4% in his second season and in his third season averaged 13.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 81.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball before signing with Team Ehingen last summer.

Thanks Caleb for talking to germanhoops.com. How blessed do you feel to be able to play overseas?

I feel extremely blessed to get the opportunity to continue to play the game I love overseas. It’s something I’ve dreamed about since I was in Highschool! I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the right people around me and help me with this journey to get the opportunity!

How aware are you that one doesn´t see many NAIA guys reach overseas. Does knowing that motivate to heighten your work ethic as a rookie to a new level?

I know NAIA players may often get overlooked in some areas because we may go to some smaller schools but at the end of the day it’s how you play the game. I think knowing that just pushes me to go out there and prove something. No other choice than to be the most confident player on the floor!

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

To be honest I don’t know too much about Germany or its basketball until the last few months! The little I do know comes from my former teammate and roommate from Montana State, Finn Fluete who is from Essen, and now plays for Duesseldorf. But I’m super excited to get over there and learn and experience a new culture and meet some great new people and play the game we love!

Have you had any friends, former opponents or teammates play overseas and in Germany besides Finn Fleute?

I also have multiple teammates from my playing career that are playing overseas! (Harald Frey, Jubrile Belo, Abdul Mohammed, Sindou Diallo, Dalton Hommes)

Ehingen is a program that has been known of developing young players well. What were the main reasons for you joining this organization?

Coach Hübner and I were able to chat for a long time and everything he was saying just sounded like a perfect fit for me! I feel like there’s always things to grow and develop regardless of age and I believe that I will be able to come in with a little bit of a leadership role!

How did the talks go with head coach Johannes Hubner? What did you enjoy most about his basketball philosophy?

Coach Hübner is a great coach and I’ve heard nothing but good things about him! He said that the style he likes to play was very similar to the style I was used to playing at Montana Tech, and he made it pretty clear the role he thinks is best for me!

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

I would say that my best play comparison is Demar Derozan? But I’m not sure lol! Maybe Gordon Hayward as well.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet well and seem to be a guy that can do a bit of everything. How well defined is versatility in your game?

I feel like I can score the ball at all 3 levels, when your game is well rounded and not 1 dimensional it opens up so many more opportunities on the floor for myself as well as my teammates!

You won 3 titles in the NAIA. How much of a leader are you?

I have had to lead by example since high school, my dad was my high school coach so there was no other choice! I feel ready to go and the best way to lead is by doing it first!

You shot the 3 ball really well in 2 of your 3 NAIA career and topped it off at 38% in your last year. How would you describe your shooting potential as you start your rookie season? What is your biggest goal with your shooting this season?

I feel like I have the potential to shoot above 40% but it all depends on the type of shots I’m taking, sometimes in college I would maybe take a lower percentage shot but I knew I could make the shot because I had before! My biggest goal for shooting this season is honestly just making enough to win games and taking the right shots for the team!

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

My defense has always been a weaker point of my game but the last 3 years I’ve really tried to work on it, I feel like it comes down to who wants it more.

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

I’m working on being more consistent with my finishing around the rim about 10 feet and in. As well as my ability to get down hill and then make adjustments as I read the defense, making the best play possible for the team!

You began your college career at Montana State University (NCAA) and played there from 2019-2021 and played only 28 games. How much did Covid hamper your time there? Could you take any positives from these 2 years?

Montana State and coach Danny Sprinkle were great for me, I was a young 18 year old with no experience. I grew as a person and player and there is no way I would be where I am today without going through the Covid years and without having to grind out 2 years. It made me have a new view on the game and honestly made me fall in love with the game again!

How much of a role model was upperclassman Harald Frey who played the last 2 seasons in Germany´s top league BBL and will play in top Spanish league ACB this season? What were you able to soak up from his game?

Harald was a leader for our team, he’s always been one of the most supportive teammates I’ve ever had. He never hesitated to help me with anything or give me any sort of advice. I literally could ask him for anything or any help and Harry would be there for me, that’s the type of guy he is. I’m super greatful that when I was a freshmen I had such a great teammate to look up to.

What was it like being teammates with Fin Fleute? You could have a reunion in Germany this season.

Finn was always down to do whatever. He was always excited to explore. He is one of the strongest and nicest dudes I know. I haven´t seen him in a few years but we will link up in Germany again.

After playing in the NCAA for 2 years you then too a big step back moving to the NAIA and playing for Montana Tech. Was this a tough step mentally and did you develop a chip on your shoulder?

I felt like taking that step “back” I had to go out and prove that I was the “man” at that level. I had no other choice than to be the most confident dude and the floor. I just tried to be an absolute killer.

You won 3 Frontier conference titles at Montana Tech. Which one was the most sweetest?

They were all sweet in their own way, I would say the 1st one just because the last tech team to do it before we did it the first time, my dad was a member of the team. My dad only got 2 however so now I got 1 up on him hahah

How did head coach Adam Hiatt groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Hiatt believed in me from day 1, he recruited my from my sophomore year of high school and told me then that I could play professionally one day. I truly owe Coach Hiatt so much for allowing and trusting me to come in and help him change the program. He will be family for life.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Asa Williams?

Probably about 50-50 but we will go with me

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

Paolo Banchero or Jaden McDaniels

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Harald Frey Xavier Bishop Sindou Diallo Asa Williams Chrishon Dixon

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

Micheal Jordan Kobe Bryant Kevin Durant Dirk Nowitzki

Who is your GOAT and why?

Micheal Jordan, he changed the game and it’s the driving reason we are where we are today

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

I did not!

Thanks Caleb for the chat.

Phillp Flowers(Bona Baskets Limburg) Is Grinding In The 2 Regionalliga But Has Game And Once Put Up 37 Points Against Jeremy Pargo In A Pro Am Game In Miami

Phillip Flowers (196-SF-1990, college: UWG) is a 34 year old 196cm small forward from Lauderdale, Florida and playing with the Bona Baskets Limburg (“ Regionalliga) this season. He has pro experience in Qatar, Brazil and in semi pro leagues in the States with teams Georgia Spartans (UBA) and the South Florida Gold (ABA). He played at : Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA) and the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after a 65-57 win over Eintracht Frankfurt.

Thanks Philip for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big win over Eintracht Frankfurt. The guests are filled with 80% youth players. Did it feel like men playing with boys?

Yes it did feel like that. Sometimes I have to get myself mad just to motivate myself to play. I´m bigger and stronger than those guys. You have to keep it simple when you play against young guys.

What was the key for getting the win at home?

We didn´t find an offensive rhythm. Only one guy was at practice yesterday. But we did give an overall consistent defensive effort.

You last played 5 years ago in the ABA. How did you land in Limburg?

I met a former Limburg player through my job in Wiesbaden. I´m a contractor in Wiesbaden and work for the government. I got a try out and the rest is history.

You live and work in Wiesbaden. Is the Limburg gig more a hobby or do you still have aspirations of chasing the pro dream?

Of course I still want to get to the next level. I won´t be able to get to the top, because of my job though. But I feel capable of playing in the Pro B or Pro A.

Did you have a 9-5 job the last 5 years? Did you continue to work on your craft or was the professional route on the back burner?

I worked as a contractor for the US government in different countries the last years. I played in Qatar, Brazil and in China tournaments.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Bona Baskets Limburg? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has been cool. I have gotten to know some of the guys. I´m proud to have been a mentor for some of the young kids and try to give them knowledge and help them get better. I really love how we always have access to the gym.

You aren´t the only veteran, but Elijah Allen is also here. What is it like sharing the court with him? Is one more the leader and the other have a different function?

I can be a vocal leader, but also leader with actions. Elijah is the same.

How enjoyable has it been being teammates with Justin Stallbohm? Isn´t his smile infectious?

His smile is very infectious especially when his shot is going in. I get a lot of assists from him. He is a good shooter and leader as our captain.

You played in countries like Brazil and Qatar, but was never in Europe before this season. What do you believe kept you away from Europe? Was it failed representation?

It wasn´t really failed representation, but he just didn´t have a network in Europe, but more in South America. I would have liked to have played here earlier in my career.

You played for the South Florida Gold (ABA) reaching the final. What memories do you have of this season? What was missing from getting that chip?

We just didn´t play very well as a team. It was a big moment and they just had more experience than us.

You played 2 seasons with Botafogo F.R. (Brazil-Liga Ouro) winning a chip. What was so special about this team that season?

We had a bunch of really good players. We had strong imports and a really good team. It wasn´t only great to win the title, but to contribute

You played your rookie season with the Georgia Spartans (UBA). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie?

My wake up call was realizing I had to get stronger. I always had the skills. I focused more on my body.

You began your college career at Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA). Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a grind, but an experience they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

I agree. What many don´t realize is that JUCO has a lot of good players. Guys usually land here because of bad grades. I learned that if I want to get somewhere, I have to work hard.

You then played a season with the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). You only played a season there. Why didn´t you finish there?

I stayed only one season, because I was ineligible for a second season.

What was your fondest moment on the court? Possibly your 23/13 game against Carver?

I don´t even think that that was my best game. Maybe on paper it was. My fondest moment was winning the dunk contest at midnight madness.

How did head coach Michael Cooney groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

He taught me discipline. I understood that if I didn´t do something a certain way, I would sit.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zac Taulien?

I won. Not too many beat me.

Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA?

I played against Bam Adebayo. I played against James Harden in a Miami tournament and did really well. He didn´t play defense. I put up 37 points against Jeremy Pargo also in Miami. I also played against Derrick Jones Jr.

Who are your 4 best teammates of all-time?

Kenny Boynton, Brandon Knight, Eloy Vargas, Keith Clanton

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

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

Who is your Goat?

Michael Jordan

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

Yes they should of left it alone.

Thanks Philip for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 15

Malik Riddle 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 eurobasket.com every week to talk basketball.

A tough 114-110 double overtime loss. It was the second OT type game loss in a row. Is the basketball God annoying you guys a bit at the moment?

No I just felt like we just didn’t make the right plays that we needed during the whole game.

Do you feel like teams are scouting the RheinStars better in the second half?

I think so but also we need to make adjustments during the game. We also did not get stops like we need to.

It was one of those games where one team would punch and in the next quarter the other would punch back. In the second quarter the RheinStars punched back. What was key for having the lead at the break?

We were getting stops and getting out and getting easy baskets.

In the second half they punched the RheinStars, but you fought back in the fourth quarter. Ruppert Hennen tied the game at 89 and you stopped them to force OT. How fortunate were you to reach the OT?

Very fortunate I feel we were locked in during that moment and showed how focused we can be as a team when we need to at times.

That first OT was very fortunate again for Cologne as Alston missed a second free throw with one second to play. What was missing from you guys just to finish them off?

We just didn’t finish on offense as well as not getting consecutive stops and rebounding.

In the second OT the RheinStars went on a 4-0 run, but allowed Ehingen to come back. Is it fair to say that the RheinStars would have won the game without having to battle Jaylen Alston?

Yeah he was having a great game probably one of the best I’ve been a part of and we let him go off this game.

You had 9 points and not your best shooting day, but had 3 steals. Was your injury still hindering your play a bit?

It has been difficult for me with the injury hopefully I can use the break to heal properly.

The Pro B now has a 2 week break. What do the RheinStars Cologne have to do better in the next games?

We have to lock in more on defense like we did the beginning of the season. We have to come out the gate with intensity.

It won´t get any easier as you paly Wurzburg who beat you in the first game. What will be key to getting win?

Defense is the key. We have to play better collectively and finish with rebounding. Our intensity and urgency need to be better as a whole.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Jaylen Alston Dazzles Basketball Germany Flirting With A Quadruple Double Of 47 Points, 32 rebounds, 8 Assists And 8 Steals

Jaylen Alston (193-G, college: WSSU) is a 193cm guard form North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with Pro B team Team Ehingen. He began his basketball career at Eastern Guilford high school. He then played a season at Gardner-Webb University (NCAA) and then played at Winston Salem State University and in his last 2 seasons averaged 11.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 74.5% and 18.1ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 74.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after scoring 47 points in a big win over the RheinStars Cologne.

Thanks Jaylen for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 114-110 victory over top team RheinStars Cologne. You played them tough in the first game. How motivated was the team this time to win?

The team was really motivated to get the win. We really need to get back on the right track so I think we started off the right way by taking out a top team.

was only your second win of the season with them as you came late to the team in December. What felt greatest being able to win this in front of your own home fans?

The greatest part was definitely being able to win in front of the fans. They come and support us at every game in regardless of the outcome, they still come back game after game to see us play.

This was the second loss in a row in OT for the RheinStars. Could it be that teams are scouting better against them now in the second time around?

I would definitely say teams are scouting them better. Coach had us watch some film on them this week so we were really logged in on knowing who was who and understanding the type of caliber each player brought to that team and take out their strengths.

What did the team focus most on going into the game? How much was taking care of the ball an issue? You had 18 team turnovers in the first game?

The team focus is mainly on rebounding and playing under the correct pace at times the game can get a little fast and we like to be able to switch and make them play to our style. The issues with turnovers happen, but we do try to limit them. Coach always wants us to stay below 14 turnovers in the game because taking care of the ball is usually a pivotal point who wins the basketball game.

valuable is it having a guy like Finn Doentgens? He scored 3 of the first 4 team baskets?

A guy like Finn is really valuable. He brings great size and experiences. This is his second year playing pro B. He did help us get started scoring three of the four baskets and that’s what we need from him honestly every game because having a guy like him in attack mode puts pressure on a lot of other things big guys.

It took you a while to get going, but you had 6 points in the first quarter? Of course there were30minutes more of playing time, but did you feel like you could have a great scoring day after 1 quarter?

Yeah, I honestly don’t worry too much about scoring. I just tend to allow the game to come to me and whatever is taking place. I’m fine with as long as my team is winning so we won the first quarter of the game and I was happy with that result. I always feel like I can have a great scoring day just because I’m a volume guy and I can score different ways. I don’t necessarily need the ball in my hands for 40 minutes to score 30 or 40 points a lot of times my points are from second chance.

I totally love Travis Davis. He finished the first quarter with a lay in. Does his speed and quick finishes sometimes surprise you?

Honestly, Travis’s speed quickness does not surprise me just because I’ve been seeing it for a while since I’ve been here and I love that he has that to his basketball game and most guards tend to struggle staying in front of him and he’s also good with finishing at the room with his floater or being able to find the right team open, which gets our offense going.

In the second quarter the RheinStars punched back and held Ehingen to little points in the last 5 minutes. What was key for them coming back?

Key for coming back was for us to get back into what we did in the first quarter because being shot away from getting inside and making finishes at the rim and then we also had too many careless turnovers that lead to them gaining a little bit of momentum.

In the third quarter Ehingen fought back and you showed you’re a walking bucket scoring 9 points in a row. Did you feel that this was a time to take more responsibility or were you only doing what the defense was giving you

I honestly was just doing what the defense gave me. I tend to just see how they want to play me or other teammates so whether the opportunity is for me to score the ball or for my teammate to have the ball I’m fine with either option, but it was just great to have a little bit of momentum and scoring to push us forward with a little bit of a lead in the quarter

The RheinStars went on a little run in the third quarter and continued it going into the fourth quarter. How tough was it defending this RheinStars Cologne team that has a good mix of old and young legs?

Their team is very tough to defend. They have a great point guard along with a pretty good big man so that combination is tough when you’re in the pick and roll and they also do a great job of keeping the shooters inside the right spot so that way, you have to really decide what do you want to stop and be able to honestly switch to make yourself be there for every catch when the ball is being.

The fourth quarter was a real battle. Ehingen could of won the game, but allowed the opponent to come back and tie the game? Did Ehingen lose a bit of intensity in crunch-time to secure the win

Yeah, we definitely allowed them to come back inside the game. I’m honestly not too happy with the last possession in the way the ref called the valve for us but sometimes you have to live with those results and just keep playing so I feel like the urgency and intensity was there. We just simply gave up a bad possession for that moment.

the first OT you missed the second free throw. If you had made it, you would have won. Were you feeling some nervousness?

wasn’t feeling any nervousness. I honestly feel very confident whenever I’m shooting a ball even more confidence than I’ve ever felt in my career lately so it just simply was me missing a shot, but I know in my head I will make the next one.

In the second OT Simon Fransis made a trey with a dime from you and Jorke Aav made free throws to win.. Did Ehingen want it more at the end?

Yeah, we definitely wanted it more in the end. We honestly had a quote that we were saying the entire fourth quarter going into the overtime and it was “winners are going to win” and at the end of the day we do our job we know the results are going to favor us and that is what I felt like pushed us over the edge

How valuable is it adding a guy like 30 year old Simon Fransis from Sweden? What key element does he give the team besides experience?

Simon is very valuable. He brings a lot of experience and intelligence with a great IQ so having him on the floor all the time balances out what we have with younger guys on the team and he also is a threat and we can switch a lot of positions on defense so his versatility along with my versatility is something that can help with going into the future.

I don´t even have to ask you if this was your best career game. 47 points, 24 rebounds, 8 assists and 8 steals. I mean that´s crazy. How does that feel?

It feels pretty good. I was just really happy with the results because all those stats honestly don’t matter if we don’t win the game so it’s a great feeling seeing everybody happy for me even my teammates. They were cheering me on to go for 50 so that just means a lot for them being happy for me in every moment

Was that the most points in your career? You had a 35 point and 34 point game at Winston-Salem.

Yeah, they had to be the most. I had one game before where I scored 42 so I would say the 47 points is the most I’ve ever scored in a basketball game.

mean that isn´t in the same league as a Kevin Love. Your in your own galaxy. Did that stat line surprise you when you saw it?

stat line definitely surprise me. I was more surprised with the amount of steals along with the amount of rebounds since people look over every day so when they see the stats people are thinking I was joking about how many rebounds I had.

Does reaching 47 points give you that inner thought hmmm maybe I can reach 50?

No honestly reaching 47 doesn’t really give me the thoughts of 50. I just let the game come to me so whatever happens it’s fine with me as long as I see my team having more points than the other team.

You would have reached 50 with better three point shooting. Does knowing that give you that extra boost to go into the gym a little early on Monday or even on Sunday to work on your shot?

Yeah, I was saying the three-point shooting was something that gave me a boost regardless just because recently I haven’t put in some great reps inside of practice and I’ve seen the ball going in so for me I just want to pick up my percentage on shooting the three ball.

What was your personal favorite play of the game?

Honestly, my personal favorite play in the game had to be the last possession, seeing all of our guys ready to rebound and try to fight for the ball to seal the deal.

Did you get any special messages from people besides family and friends from people you may not have expected it from

I got some messages from old teammates, old coaches, along with new people in Germany that I wasn’t too familiar with but my most special message came from a couple of young fans and they were just so happy with the game yesterday and so things like that really make my day make me want to play harder and for the fans.

Thanks Jaylen for the chat.

Jamie Edoka(Skyliners) Goes From An ICE Train Ride To The Sap Garden For His First easyCredit BBL Minutes Against FC Bayern Munich

pic credit: Steffen Eirich/Matthias Stickel

On Sunday night 17 year old Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008) was ending a successful weekend by having led the Skyliners Juniors to a massive Pro B win against the TSV Oberaching Tropics. He scored 21 points and as usual did a fantastic job as playmaker running the offense and hit big shots in many phases of the game. 48 hours later Edoka was standing on the court in Munich in the state of the art area Sap Garden and made his easyCredit BBL debut for the Frankfurt Skyliners. Playing in the BBL is the dream of so many young German players. The opportunity to do this came mainly because the Skyliners had many key players out and they had to bring reinforcements. The call to Edoka surely helped that he isn´t only a main contributor for the clubs NBBL U-19 team, but also a key player for their pro B farm team. He is a starter on the team and deserved to be given this incredible opportunity. It is definitely an experience he will never forget. “I came into the game in the 6th or 7th minute of the game. Going on the court in the Sap Garden was an indescribable feeling. I knew at that moment that I might be defending the best shooter in the world with Andi Obst or ex NBA player Carsen Edwards or young talent Ivan Kharchenkolv. To be able to witness this was unbelievable”, stressed Jamie Edoka. “I´m very proud of him and am happy that he got this opportunity. I hope he will get more opportunities like that”, said teammate Ivan Crnjac. He got many nice congratulatory messages from family and friends and after the game German national player Ivan Kharchenko congratulated him on a good game and wished him good health. “I think that this was a huge step for the youth department of the Skyliners. He totally deserved to get this opportunity with his good play in the NBBL and Pro B. I hope that there will more chances like this for talented players”, stressed teammate Maximillian Peters.

The pass first guard who enjoys watching basketball video´s of Maodo Lo actually first was informed on Monday night between 10-11 pm that he would be able to suit up against euroleague team FC Bayern Munich. “I was very overjoyed to have gotten the call informing me that I could play. I never expected it. It is always something you hope for, but getting the chance from one day to the next was like a dream come true”, expressed Jamie Edoka. The game was less than 24 hours later. Tuesday was a very wild day. He began Tuesday by going to school like any other day. He left at noon time and went hone to pack his bags for Munich. The ICE train departed Frankfurt at 1:30 and arrived around 5:30, two and a half hours before game time. What does a 17 year old kid do to pass the time on the train before the biggest moment in his basketball life? “At the start of the trip, I was doing homework, but in the last 1-2 hours, I focused on the game. I was reading our playbook which was given to me before the trip and I also watched some clips from the first game against Munich while listening to music”, stated Jamie Edoka. He didn´t go to the team hotel when he arrived in Munich, but right to the Sap Garden arena. His teammates arrived at about the same time to the arena at 6.00pm.

The Frankfurt Skyliners came to Munich missing 4 key players with guards Jordan Theodore and Trey Calvin as well as forwards Einaras Tubutis and Patrick Heckman. FC Bayern Munich was also missing some key players like Devin Booker, but overall FC Bayern Munich was the favorite on paper. But instead of steamrolling Frankfurt in the first minutes, it was actually Frankfurt that totally surprised Munich taking the rapid 12-3 lead. Did FC Bayern Munich underestimate Frankfurt and was Frankfurt playing on Adrenaline? “I don´t think that Munich underestimated us, but seemed a bit asleep at the start. We came in very focused, but they weren´t”, remembered Jamie Edoka. The turning point of the game came in the second quarter as FC Bayern Munich poured it on exploding for 28 points and showing what kind of a brutal offensive arsenal they have. At half-time the Frankfurt Skyliners trailed 42-35, but were still in striking distance. “They had lost to Vechta unexpectedly last weekend. They took us seriously. They still played with a good rotation. I think the players got some fire from their coach. It is only a matter of time when guys like Edwards and Obst begin hitting shots”, said Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich went into the second half with some momentum and then shifted up a few gears and totally stifled the Skyliners holding them too only 21 points. “You noticed in the second half that we were missing key players and that is tough to compensate when you play a top team like Munich. I think we were trying to save our strength for the BBL Cup weekend. We didn´t give them the game. We fought until the end”, warned Jamie Edoka.

Edoka who lists ex Skyliner Alvin Onyia as his mentor the last few years was extremely nervous before checking in, but that is expected when you turned 17 only a few weeks ago. He was very fortunate to have his Pro B coach Sepher Tarrah on the sidelines who functions as an assistant coach for the easyCredit BBL team. Tarrah helped him lessen some of the jitters that were swirling in his head. “It was very important that Sepher was there. The most important thing he told me was that at the end of the day it is all the same. It is just basketball. The only difference is that it is a higher level. These words really helped against my nervousness. He was helping me the whole game with constructive feedback”, commented Jamie Edoka. He has practiced with the BBL team in the past and already knew the guys and also got advice from them to also help him with the big challenge. How difficult was it getting used to the BBL level? “It was like worlds apart. Coming from the NBBL, it was so so different for me. It is so much quicker the play than what I was used to. I honestly didn´t get used to it. I just wanted to survive. I was trying to understand what was happening”, stressed Jamie Edoka. A massive moment for him was guarding 2 so talented players with ex NBA guys Carsen Edwards and Shabazz Napier. “I didn´t think that Edwards would be so small. To see how he moves and how he is able to create his own shot was unbelievable. I had never seen something like that before. I did notice that Napier has gotten older, but he still uncorked something like 3 behind the back passes and no look passes. He also was able to find teammates so quickly. That is something that I won´t forget so quickly”, warned Jamie Edoka. He played 24 minutes going 0/3, but had 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal. He definitely knows what he has to do to keep playing at the BBL level. “I need to get that game IQ, work on my ball handing and shot. I just have to keep working hard. I want to play at this level”, stressed Jamie Edoka. So what was his favorite own play of the game? “My assist to Lorenz Breneke on the pick and roll. That was the first time in the game where I read the defense well”, stated Jamie Edoka. Ex Skyliner Isaac Bonga was in attendance as he was on a little break from Partizan Belgrade. Bonga like Edoka also began in the Skyliners organization going the route of NBBL-Pro B-BBL-NBA. The only difference was that Bonga was hyped already at this age and Edoka not. “I didn´t know that he was at the game. I found out after the game. It is a good feeling to know that he also played with the Skyliners in young years. It motivates me that a great career is possible”, stressed Jamie Edoka.

Justin Onyejiaka(Rasta Vechta) Is Always In Grind Mode As His Biggest Motivation Is Sky Is The Limit

Justin Onyejiaka (195-SG-2004) is a 20 year old 195cm guard that has returned back to Rasta Vechta for the 2024-2025 season. He couldn´t play his first game this season until January 3, 2025 due to a tough injury. Currently he has played 8 games in the Pro A averaging 5,6ppg, 2,1rpg and 1,3spg. He played the last 2 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners. In his first season he played 6 easyCredit BBL games and in the Pro B averaged : 13.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 23.2%, FT: 57.1%. Last season he played 41 pro A games averaging 7.0ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 72.8%, and in the Pro B averaged 23.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 58.0%, 3PT: 47.8%, FT: 60.0%. He began his basketball career with BBC Osnabruck and then played 2 seasons with Rasta Vechta in the JBBL, Regionalliga and Pro A. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the U-20 European championships.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Last summer Germany finished the U-20 Euro at 12th place. What was your summary of the tournament?

I thought it was a good tournament for us. We had some good wins, but also some tough loses against France and Italy. I think had we won those games, we would have been in a better position to have a better result at the end.

Is it possible to feel after the preparation how well the team could do going in? What kind of a feeling did you have?

I had mixed feelings. We had some bad results in the preparation. But I knew that we had good potential going in.

Germany lost a tough game to France 103-78. Germany shot out the lights with 15 three´s, but gave up 26 turnovers. What do you believe did the team learn from the game?

The biggest problem was their length which they had at every position. You don´t see that much at that level. We had problems playing switch defense.

It is always nice to see a well rounded scoring team, but was the team possibly missing 2 very dominant go to guys? Martin Kalu is one of those guys.

I wouldn´t say that. I feel like with all the talent we had, the scoring was evened out. Any player could have stepped up in any game.

You averaged 8/1/2 stats in 18 minutes at the 2024 Eurochampionships. How content were you with your game? Your three point and free throw shooting weren´t great?

One could see in the last games that we were all exhausted. I feel like I played a good tournament in the minutes that I got. I showed what I could do on the court.

What was it like playing for new Vechta BBL coach Martin Schilling? What did you appreciate right away from his coaching abilities?

I appreciated how structured his practices were. They weren´t boring at all. He had all kinds of drills from skill work to defense. I really like that. It was good to see what is to come with Vechta.

Did you notice anything in his coaching that he brought over from his G-League time?

I can´t really say. I did notice that he had many different plays. He was always ready with plays especially in difficult situations or with little time left on the clock.

The minutes were well defined, but how big was the competitive level for minutes, something that will be great again in Vechta this season?

It is always like that with talented teams. You always have to fight for minutes. It was similar like that in Frankfurt as well. I´m always ready for the Competitive fight for minutes. That is part of the basketball business.

You were teammates with so many great young German players. Was there a guy that had a big impact or influence on you?

I can´t pick just 1 player.

After 2 years in Frankfurt, you have returned back to an old stomping ground Vechta. Vechta has grown tremendously as an organization in the last years especially with developing young players. Did you see a bigger chance of getting minutes and developing further than remaining in Frankfurt?

Yes I do. That was a big reason why I returned to Vechta. The perspective for young players is better in Vechta. With Frankfurt the biggest thing is to win.

What are your biggest goals this season besides helping the team win? I´m sure you will get more Pro A minutes than in Frankfurt and in between get BBL minutes.

I will do whatever is asked of me. I will work very hard. My biggest motivation is always sky is the limit.

How excited are you to play with big German talent Johan Gurneloh before he leaves for bigger and better things? What do you like most about his game. His block shot strength and your athleticism and long arms could form a great duo on defense?

I have known him since a long time. He is a super big talent. It is crazy how well he has developed in the last 2 years. He is a great shot blocker and I like to paly pick and roll with him.

How excited are you to play for Hendrik Gruehn again? How have you seen him develop in last 2 years?

I´m really looking forward to work with him again. I´m so happy for his success. He has come such a long way with the NBBL team and then leading the Pro B team to the Pro A.

You played the last 2 years in Frankfurt. How did you grow as a player and a man in Frankfurt?

I became more mature and stable as a player. I learned a lot from Klaus Perwas especially on the defensive end. I learned effort over all. You can overcome mistakes with high effort.

You came to Frankfurt wanting to become a two way player. Did you achieve that?

Yes I think I have. I have gotten nearer to that goal and that will continue to be my card.

How tough was that first season in Frankfurt having to move down to the Pro A? What did you learn from that season?

It was a tough season. It was overburdening. I was injured and the overload with BBL and Pro B was too much for me. We practiced too much and that was a reason why I got injured. There was a lot of chaos. The second season was a lot better. There was more structure and rhythm that season.

You had the delight to be teammates with Quantez Robertson for a season. What is your nicest moment with him?

It was really cool to have a veteran like him around. I liked his motivational speeches most. He was always able to pick you up when we were down.

You helped Frankfurt reach the Pro A final. What was so special about this team?

We had a great bond. Everybody understood each other really well. I hadn´t really ever seen that before. We always had fun and were motivated. We were really together.

Last season in the pro A you averaged 7,0ppg and 1,8rpg in 15 minutes. I personally would have liked to have seen you have a bigger role. How do you summarize your season?

I saw my season as positive. I was really happy how I was able to come back from an operation and get integrated so well and play well. I would have liked to have a bigger role, but that is how it happened. I wouldn´t have changed it for anything.

Head coach Denis Wucherer stress defense. How did he help you become a better defender?

I got my minutes because of my defense. I had to give full energy and shut down the opponents best player

You had many wonderful games like against Paderborn, Jena and in the 2 final games against PS Karlsruhe. What was your fondest moment on the court?

My favorite moment was winning game 5 in Trier. That was a crazy game and just an unreal feeling winning the game. I also liked my game against Paderborn. Coming back from an injury and little practice and playing that well was a big moment.

How well will Germany do at the Olympics?

I obviously support Germany, but I don´t see them winning a medal. USA will win Gold. Canada Silver and France or Serbia bronze.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

Chrysostom Chukwuma Likes The Challenge Of Having That Responsibility And Leadership With The Young Skyliners Juniors

Chrysostom Chukwuma (190-G-1996, agency: Bell Basketball) is a 28 year old 190cm guard playing his first season in Germany with the Skyliners Juniors (Pro B) after starting the season with the Helsinki Seagulls. He began his basketball career with Vantaan Pussihukat. He then played 5 seasons with Jyvaskyla Basketball Academy. He then played 2 seasons with Lapuan Kobrat (Korisliiga) and a season with Pyrinto Tampere (Korisliiga). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over the TSV Oberaching Tropics.

Thanks Chuko for talking to germanhoops.com. Did you watch the Superbowl or is that not as popular in Finland?

It isn´t as popular in Finland, but I have friends that follow it. I never got into it.

Did some of your teammates watch or watch in groups?

I have no idea.

Congrats on the big 75-63 win over the TSV Oberaching Tropics. The team has a 3 game winning streak. How good is life now?

It feels great to be successful. It wasn´t easy for me to come to a new team in mid season. I have to learn the coaches philosophy, system and tendencies of the players. It was our first game without Hadenfeldt. I want that responsibility and leadership. We have a young team, but have a lot of potential.

The first quarter was won 19-17 by the guests. How tough was it getting the offense going with the pesky Tropics guards?

That was our biggest problem the whole game. They did a good job dodging the screens. We had problems getting open. We had too many turnovers.

The team had 7 turnovers in the first quarter and 23 in all. How big is it of a job for you to bring some stability to the offense?

Yes exactly. Hadenfeldt is away now and I have to bring rhythm into the offense and bring calmness to us.

In the second quarter the Skyliners Juniors did a better job on the pick and roll after not getting the side pick and roll going in the first quarter. How much fun is it playing with Malik Kordel?

I love Malik. I watched some games before I signed. I have never played with a 7 footer that has such good hands as he does. He is super young and has a bright future. I love playing with him.

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to lead by 12 points after 30 minutes. What adjustments did the team make?

We just turned up the intensity and got more stops and ran the court and pushed the pace. We made one pass to the wing and attacked.

In the fourth quarter the Tropics punched back with a 9-2 run to trail 56-52. What was key for the guests coming back?

We made small mistakes. We have to learn to be consistent for 40 minutes.

The Skyliners Juniors came back with a run to get their lead back to double figurers. How developed is the cohesion of the team?

I think that we have good energy. When we have hard moments, it tests us. Then we can see how well we can stay together, but that happens with young teams.

Malik Kordel made a massive poster dunk on Maxwell Dongmo Temoka. What were you thinking when you saw that?

That is what he does. He is a great athlete that can run the court well. I have never seen a player that tall that can move so well.

When you look back at the 40 minutes of the game, what was the Skyliners biggest strength in the game?

We kept fighting and where physical even if it was ugly.

You had a 15/4/2 game in 28 minutes. How content were you with your game?

I made some three´s that gave us some release. You can never be satisfied. I´m looking forward to the next games.

What was your favorite play of the game besides Kordel´s poster dunk?

I liked how we played the third quarter. We began with good energy. That is how we should start every game. Make the first hit and make the opponent call a time out and put pressure on them.

Thanks Chuko for the chat.

Jamie Edoka Powers The Skyliners Juniors to the 75-63 Victory Over TSV Oberaching Tropics

The seventh placed Skyliners Juniors continued to play good basketball in the last weeks having won 3 of their last 4 games including a 87-61 on the road against the always pesky Ehingen team who like Frankfurt have many talented young players. With the regular season going into the last stage, every game is important for the jockeying of the playoff places. Frankfurt didn´t have an easy opponent this weekend as they had the TSV Oberaching Tropics who despite being banged up for weeks and not having a full roster still had a positive 9-8 record and were in fifth place. Head coach Mario Matic who was a easyCredit BBL player in 2008 with Nordlingen has done a great job for years keeping players and developing a great team chemistry. Oberaching had a positive 3-2 record since the new year, but only 3-5 on the road. Frankfurt had to say farewell to veteran Philipp Hadenfeldt who for a second time in the last 2 seasons took a semester abroad this time in Italy. But they had hauled in Finish point guard Chuki Chukwuma who had been solid in his first 3 games including 28 points against the RheinStars Cologne. On a cold Sunday evening, both teams met in the BCM in Frankfurt and saw a very low scoring and tight first half, but in the second half the Skyliners Juniors found to their game better and took control and in the end won easily 75-63. “In the first half we didn´t really have a good offensive flow, but our defense was pretty good. We had a few individual mistakes and they over gambled a bit. In the third quarter we upped our defense allowing only 6 points. That helped us get good control of the game which we kept to the end”, stressed Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008). The TSV Oberaching Tropics as usual weren´t complete again as captain Janosch Koegler was sick and Jorg Dippold was injured. They stuck with Frankfurt for a half, but in the second half just couldn´t keep up their consistent defense from the first half as the Juniors executed well and played great inside out basketball. “We didn´t have the necessary energy, concentration and focus tonight. We were satisfied at the break that we were only down by 1 point. We didn´t play a good first half. We had a slow start in the third quarter and that carried over until the end”, stressed TSV Oberaching Tropics guard Omari Knox.

Chuko Chukwuma at the FT line

The first quarter was a back and forth battle with 5 lead changes where no club could get away from the other. Both teams were concentrating more on getting the ball inside. Ex IBAM center Fynn Fischer who played 3 BBL games scored twice while Frankfurt got a bucket from big man Malik Kordel and a basket by Jamie Edoka as the game was dead locked 7-7. 38 year old Omari Know who averaged 22,0ppg in 8 Regionalliga seasons showed he can score in bunches as he presented his deadly mid range game for the 11-7 Tropics lead. Jamie Edoka who turned 17 years old a few weeks ago continued to play with crazy self confidence hitting a trey to trail only 11-10. The Tropics continued to find Fynn Fischer as he made 2 lay in´s to keep Oberaching ahead 15-12. Three´s hadn´t been on the menu, but ex Hanau guard Bruno Albrecht nailed a trey to tie the game at 15-15. The guests had the narrow 19-17 lead after 10 minutes getting free throws from Fischer and a lay in from birthday boy Philipp Bode. TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 47% from the field while Frankfurt was at 33%. Both teams couldn´t hit the ocean from outside as combined they were 2/12. Frankfurt dominated the paint area 12-6 with 3-0 offensive rebounds while their plague of coughing up the ball continued as they had 7 turnovers and TSV Oberaching Tropics only 3. “We knew that it would be a hard game. They like to bump you a lot. We aren´t used to that. We had no offensive rhythm as their pick and roll defense was good as they slowed down our side pick and roll”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich.

Omari Knox with the step back

The second quarter continued to be low scoring as the TSV Oberaching Tropics led by as much as 9 points, but the Skyliners Juniors never stopped fighting and came back and had the 1 point lead at half-time. The TSV Oberaching Tropics came out with a lethal 9-2 run to extend their lead to 28-19. In the run The TSV Oberaching Tropics played aggressive defense and forced turnovers with their quick guards Bode and Jukic. Omari Knox added 4 points including a three pointer and Fynn Fischer and Jukic added lay in´s. Frankfurt´s offense was ok and had good looks, but they weren´t capable to hit open shots. But basketball wouldn´t be basketball without runs as now it was time for Frankfurt. Frankfurt buckled down and heightened their defensive pressure and finally started to hit shots as they escaped out on a 13-3 run to take back the lead 32-31. In the run the Skyliners Juniors got massive support from Jamie Edoka who led the offense with his leadership and scored twice while Chuko Chukwuma scored 2 three´s. “Jamie is a Pro B rookie, but plays like he has been in the league for 5 years. He just does the job and always finds a solution on offense. He reads the defense so well. Last year he had problems with the trap, but he has improved so much. He also played good defense on Omari Knox”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich. Maximillian Peters also added a step back jumper from the wing. Frankfurt´s high energy and aggressiveness on defense led to Tropics turnovers while the Tropics defense were a bit weak on the 1-1 defense. Fynn Fischer closed out the second quarter with an old school hook shot. “We played more pick and roll through the middle. They didn´t ice as well so we got more three pointers”, commented Florian Dietrich. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 35% from the field and 8% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Jamie Edoka with the step back

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to take total control of the game and led by as much as 14 points and after 30 minutes led by 12 points. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got on the board first as ex Fc Bayern basketball 2 German Maxwell Dongmo Temoka made a lay in to give Oberaching the 33-32 advantage. The Skyliners Juniors then exploded for a 10-0 run to capture back the lead at 42-33. In the run Jamie Edoka continued to be in attack mode as he scored with 2 drives, Bruno Albrecht added 4 points and versatile German Marvin Esser made a runner. Frankfurt tightened up their defense as they would only allow 6 points. Their help defense was their biggest strength in the quarter. TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t match Frankfurt´s intensity and their 1-1 defense couldn´t contain the Juniors attackers. Fischer stopped the Frankfurt run with a hook shot, but Frankfurt punched back with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 49-35. In the run Frankfurt got 3 free throws from Bruno Albrecht, a massive dunk from Dusan Nikolic from the wing and a big 2 handed dunk by Marvin Esser who received the bullet pass from Namori Omog. “He has a special knack of seeing his teammates”, said Jamie Edoka. The TSV Oberaching Tropics closed out the third quarter with a lay in by Maxwell Dongmo Temoka to trail 49-37. “Our offensive flow was very good. We had one good situation which led to another good situation. That helped raise our self-confidence. We knew they would go inside. Our help defense was excellent. We know we have to help each other because we are all like family”, added Namori Omog. “We had a lack of focus and mis communication on defense. They did a good job hitting shots”, expressed Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 22% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 29% from the field and 5% from the parking lot and had 32 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Maxwell Dongmo Temoka at the FT line

In the fourth quarter both teams had their respective best scoring quarters in the game as both scored 26 points a piece, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t get over the hump as they couldn´t get stops. Fans also saw a few more spectacular dunks to go home content. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got good support from ex Tuebingen playedr Niklas Schueler with 2 baskets while Frankfurt received lay in´s from Albrecht and Chuwuma and a trey from Maximillian Peters, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t make any ground as Frankfurt led 56-43. Despite having only a 8 man rotation, the TSV Oberaching Tropics still had some energy left in their gas tank as they broke out on a 9-2 run to trail only 58-52. In the run ex BBL player Peter Zeis was aggressive scoring 5 points including a three pointer while Dongmo Temoka and Schueler made lay in´s. “We lost a little concentration. But the good thing about our team is that we are always able to catch ourselves”, stated Jamie Edoka. But the Skyliners Juniors fought back going on a 9-4 run to extend their lead to 67-56. In the run it was Jamie Edoka who made a lay in while Chukwuma also scored in the paint area and Bruno Albrecht hit a trey. Malik Kordel ended the run in massive fashion with a poster dunk on Dongmo Temoka. “Dongmo was hyped up I think. You should never try to jump with Malik. Nobody can stop him”, warned Jamie Edoka. Zeis stopped the run with a trey, but Edoka connected again with a trey as time in and time out, he hit big shots for the 70-59 lead. “With Hadenfeldt gone, I know that I have to show even more responsibility. I´m ready for it. I know that I have too many turnovers, but I´m working on it. I´m always ready to take the big shots”, warned Jamie Edoka. Knox did add a trey, but Frankfurt closed out the game strong with a Kordel alley-oop dunk and Chukwuma three pointer. “We pushed the ball and got the ball inside and got easy baskets in our run, but Frankfurt got their offense going again and hit three´s stated Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Jamie Edoka with 21 points while Bruno Albrecht added 16 points and Chuko Chukwuma 15 points while the TSV Oberaching Tropics were led by Fynn Fischer with 16 points while Maxwell Dongmo Temoka added 12 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 31% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 23 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 37% from the field and 11% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

The Dragons Rhondorf Explode In The Third Quarter Overpowering FC Bayern Basketball 2 98-77

The last weeks haven´t been easy times for the Dragons Rhondorf as losing has been the main course on the menu. Despite a new coach with Marko Zarkovic, the winning didn´t resurface as last week they lost to a hungry and team orientated club with the Fellbach Flashers and had lost their fourth game in the last 5 games. The Dragons might be losing but the team continues to give effort and fight. Their next opponent was FC Bayern Basketball 2, possibly the best opponent for them at this crucial part of the season as wins have to come for the fight for the playoffs. It has been a very tough season for FC Bayern Basketball 2 as they were in dead last place with a 3-14 record. The youth and inexperience continue and the departure of Ivan Kharchenkov and Martin Kalu hurt their offense. FC Bayern Munich came to Rhondorf having lost 4 of their last 5 games, but had some confidence having beaten the Ahorn Camp Baskets last weekend. On a cold Saturday night the Dragons Rhondorf finally began a winning streak again in their quest to reach the playoffs in 2025. The Dragons Rhondorf showed as usual that they can present their explosive scoring, but also showed that they can defend when they want to. It was the least points that they have given up in a game in 2025 as effort and teamwork was rewarded with success. “We didn´t have the best start. We scored well, but didn´t defend as well. We went in the game with the goal of allowing 72 points. Our offense was good for the most part with good ball movement. We woke up on defense in the third quarter. It was a good team performance where all played well and played for each other”, said Dragons Rhondorf guard Janne Muller.

Marco Frank at the FT line

The first quarter showed 2 teams that were executing solidly on offense, but didn´t find their defensive rhythm yet. FC Bayern Basketball 2 were led by Marco Frank and Dominick Dolic who were aggressive from the jump as they scored. The Dragons Rhondorf wanted to get their 3 ball going again and got a trey early from ex Drake (NCAA) guard Antonio Pilipovic as well as lay in´s from rookie Ohio native Tim Smith Jr and ex Coburg center Danas Kazakevicius (207-PF-2005, agency: Highlight Athletes) as the contest was dead locked at 9-9. FC Bayern Basketball 2 attacked the rim more than attempting three´s and were successful with a Nicklas Kodjoe lay in and 2 lay in´s by Marco Frank who kind of had that Ivan Kharchenkov role that led the club last season. The Dragons Rhondorf also preferred to go to the hole Kazakevicius and Las Vegas native Kelvin Omojola scored, but FC Bayern Basketball 2 had the slight 18-17 lead. In the last minutes there would be 2 more lead changes as Rhondorf got valuable support from their bench as young German Kenan Reinhart who last played for the RheinStars Cologne dropped a clutch trey while Pilipovic hit another jumper. FC Bayern Basketball 2 got big support from the bench from 16 year old Serbian talent Andrija Susic who scored 5 points for the 23-22 advantage. However the Dragons Rhondorf still had one play left and got a clutch trey from ex wiha Panthers guard Alex Lagerman who entered the game shooting a lethal 56% to give the Dragons the 25-23 lead after 10 minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 60% from the 2 point range and 43% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 70% from the 2 point range and 33% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 4 turnovers. “We didn´t have the right defensive communication from the first minute. We just didn´t find our rhythm. It was small things like not fouling to stop transition. If we can be consistent then we can be a good defensive team”, stated Janne Muller.

Janne Muller with the jumper

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf were able to get away from FC Bayern Basketball 2 and lead by as much as 10 points, but had to settle for the 7 point lead at the break. Lagerman took the momentum from his first quarter ending trey into the second quarter dancing into the zone and spinning past his opponent for the 27-23 Dragons lead. FC Bayern Basketball 2 then punched back with a mini 4-0 run to tie the game at 27-27. In the run FC Bayern Basketball 2 got a bucket from Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis and a lay in from Montenegro guard Amir Licina. The Dragons Rhondorf then finally were consistent at both ends of the court going on their first big run of the game of 11-0 to take the big 38-27 lead. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf got total team support as Janne Muller added 5 points, Lagerman made a massive dunk on transition, ex Jena center Marco Rahn made a lay in and Kazakevicius made a tip in. The aggressive on ball defense by the Dragons sparked their offense. Omojola was huge in the run getting 2 steals as the Dragons defense didn´t allow anything easy for FC Bayern Basketball 2. FC Bayern Basketball 2 also had problems getting into the paint as the Dragons had heightened their 1-1 defense. In the last minutes, FC Bayern Basketball 2 began to execute better, but couldn´t get stops to creep back as the Dragons also executed. FC Bayern Basketball 2 weren´t hitting three´s so continued to drive to the basket getting buckets from Dolic, Sermpezis and Frank. The Dragons Rhondorf got baskets from ex Orange Academy guard Marco Rosic with an off balance shot, a lay in by Pilipovic and 2 baskets from Kazaskevicius. “We did a good job pressuring their guards and forcing them to tough shots. We had good ball movement, used the pick and pop and ran our transition well”, stated Janne Muller. The Dragons shot 58% from the field and 36% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 7 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 63% from the field and 21% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Niclas Kodjoe from outside

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf exploded for 31 points and decided the game early. FC Bayern Basketball 2 got some baskets early from Kodjoe with a lay in and a trey from Dolic, but the Dragons Rhondorf also executed as Kazakevicius scored 3 baskets and totally dominated inside against Italian big man Alessio Calamita as Rhondorf led 53-42. “Danas was very aggressive on the court. He did a great job scoring and rebounding. I´m really happy for him”, stated Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf began to showcase their total offensive arsenal as now it was time for Tim Smith Jr to score 8 points in a row. The 3 level scorer who compares his game to NBA player Jayson Tatum hit a three pointer, 2 lay in´s including a reverse lay up and made free throws for the 61-44 advantage. FC Bayern Basketball 2 executed well getting more lay in´s from Dolic, Volf and Susic, but couldn´t make any ground as the Dragons Rhondorf continued to execute with ease. After the Smith Jr show, it was time for Janne Muller to show his scoring in bunches abilities as he scored 7 points including a three pointer, off balance shot and mid distance shot. Marko Rosic added a three pointer as the Dragons Rhondorf led 75-53 after 3 quarters. “At half-time coach Marko told us to be aggressive on defense and continue to play with confidence. We did that in the third quarter. We shared the ball well. Scoring has never been a problem for us, but our ball movement can be at times. We did a good job going from defense to offense”, added Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 61% from the 2 point range and 47% from the parking lot and had 33 rebounds and 10 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 62% from the 2 point range and 22% from the parking lot and had 21 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Tim Smith Jr at the FT line

In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Basketball 2 had their highest offensive scoring quarter with 24, but couldn´t make any ground as the Dragons Rhondorf scored 23 points. Kazakevicius began hot again scoring 5 points including 2 lay in´s as he controlled the paint area. On his 2 hand dunk, he got a nifty no look pass from Antomio Pilipovic who finished the game with 6 assists and once again proved he is like an extra point guard. “His assists and the way he passes the ball doesn´t surprise me. Even if he does make risky passes at times, he has a good eye for his teammates. He is like a magician”, smiled Janne Muller. FC Bayern Basketball 2 added a trey from Licina and a lay in from Calamita but trailed 83-61. Ex Red Deer (JUCO) guard Kelvin Omojola then scored two baskets in a row for the 87-61 lead as the energy level was still very high with the Dragons Rhondorf. After Kodjoe and Kazakevicius traded baskets, FC Bayern Basketball 2 then went on a 10-0 to trail 89-73. In the run FC Bayern Basketball 2 got key support from Dolic and Volf who nailed three´s and 16 year old giant Killian Dueck made a lay in. “We lost some concentration. We put in some of the younger players and we simply made easy mistakes. These mistakes can happen when your up by 26 points”, expressed Janne Muller. The Dragons Rhondorf closed out the game with a 9-4 run. In the run got another trey by Kenan Reinhart, a floater and free throws from Marco Rahn and free throws from Kelvin Omojola. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Danas Kazakevicius with 25 points and 11 rebounds and Janne Muller added 19 points while FC Bayern Basketball 2 was led by Dominik Dolic with 18 points and Marco Frank added 11 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 54% from tehf ield and 38% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 17 turnovers while FC Bayern Basketball 2 shot 42% from the field and 24% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 13

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 on the huge 81-77 win on the road against Ludwigsburg. The RheinStars won the first game by 27 points. How were they a different team this time?

Thanks. I feel that they made a lot more shots this game and came out with a bunch of energy. Can tell they really wanted to win this one.

Porsche BBA Ludwigsburg led by 8 points at half time. They broke away giving a mix of inside out basketball. Was it tough matching their energy?

Yeah we kind of didn’t have the energy they had in the first half and caught ourselves down at half. We also had to many unnecessary turnovers.

In the third quarter the RhenStars fought back scoring 29 points. What adjustments did you make as a team on the defensive end?

We picked up the energy and the intensity up the second half. Defense was a lot more aggressive that second half than the first and we locked in as a group and our defense led to easy offense.

Crunch-time was very exciting. Ludwigsburg was down 79-77 in the last minute. What was key then for getting the win?

We had to make sure we executed down the stretch on both ends of the court. We had some mistakes but still we ended up making it up in the end.

The RheinStars recently added Maxi Begue and Jonas Flakenstein. What do they bring to the team?

They both can take care of the basketball and run the show on offense. They bring good defense as Maxi had some steals during the game.

The team had 19 steals. How vital was the defense in crunch-time for the win?

The defense definitely showed a difference in the second half and during that crunch time we got stops when we needed them most.

You had a great game at both ends with 16 points and 4 steals and a block. Did your defense carry your offense?

I had good energy this game on the defensive end and that led to easy offensive baskets for me.

You next face the Ahorn Camp Baskets. Cologne escaped with a 86-84 road win despite 29 turnovers of the opponent. What will be key to getting the win?

I think we have to play with more energy this game. We fell behind this past game so we have to come out more urgently this game and not turn the ball over as much this game.

Thanks Malik for the chat.