football

Chase Johnson Loves The No Quit Attitude In The EPG Baskets And Knows They Will Be Overly Prepared For The Giessen 46ers

Pic Credit: Angel King Media

Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career at the Word Of God Christian Academy. He then was one year at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 seasons at Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. He then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. He then added one more year at Boston College (NCAA) averaging 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the brutal 69-66 loss in Wolmirstedt

The EPG Baskets Sustained a very tough 69-66 loss to the SBB Baskets. How tough is this loss after playing 3 incredible quarters? Is it still hard to digest 2 days later or has it worn off a bit?

A bit of both. It is hard to digest, but at the end of the day the season continues and we have the next tough opponent with Giessen coming up. After today we have to crumple up the loss and focus on Giessen.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz were punched right away trailing 10-0. How can you explain a miserable start like that? It has happened all season on the road.

That is correct. We were down 14 points in Paderborn and came back to win and down 16 points in Wolmirstedt and lost. I really don´t have an explanation as to why this keeps happening. I will continue to watch and film and see how we can correct it and be better against Giessen.

They were scoring at ease in the paint. What were the main problems on the defensive end in that early phase?

We had problems with their drive and then switched up some things on defense which helped us get back into the game.

You guys were in a hole right away. How tough was handling their pressure? It is amazing how the team with so many young American rookies have been able to perform well despite adversary.

I personally haven´t bene handling the pressure well at all. I know that I can be a lot better. What I really like about this team is that we have no quit in us. No matter how much we are down, we are always trying to find a way to win. That is what I really respect about this team.

The SBB Baskets had the overwhelming 30-16 advantage after 10 minutes. What was going through your mind as one of the leaders?

I told the guys that they went on their run and now it´s our turn for our run. That is exactly what happened.

The EPG Baskets were in a hole in the second quarter, but the offense reached a flow. What adjustments did you make getting being able to execute better?

Nothing really except just starting to hit shots better which gave us a flow.

You were down 42-29 and then you finally made a big run of 10-0. How vital was showing them then that you guys still had game?

That run meant a lot at that time. I mean Wolmirstedt is really experienced. Maybe one of the most experienced in the Pro A. They beat Heidelberg on the road by 10 points. That means a lot. This game was definitely a learning experience for us.

Jannis Sonnefeld hit back to back three´s. Does one appreciate and love this kid more after every game?

We do absolutely. He is our X factor and a real game changer. We appreciate him so much.

How tough was containing Martin Bogdanov who had 4 points and 7 assists at the break?

He was my match up. I knew that he averaged like 7 assists, is a good playmaker, but doesn´t score so much. He had a great game.

In the third quarter the EPG Baskets took the lead at the end for the first time 54-52 and allowed only 10 points. How proud were you of the team defensive effort?

I was very proud of the guys. We showed resilience and didn´t quit. No matter how much we are down, we never quit. We always get up and fight. Doing that was like a moral victory for us.

10 minutes to play. What did coach Dohrn tell you guys to do for the last 10 minutes?

We were switching more often especially on their guards.

How do you describe the last three from Brock Gardner. Were you expecting a three? Dragos Diculescu was on him. Can one expect getting beat on a contested shot?

That play was more on me. We trapped and switched, but maybe if I had switched, the last shot may have been more contested.

What insights did you get from this game about the development of the defense?.

We got even more resilient on defense. We put in a new press which we had only practiced once before the game. I felt we executed that pretty well already. I think once we get more comfortable with it, we will be very dangerous

You had 9 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals,1 block and shot. The three still isn´t falling. What was your personal summary of how you played?

I wasn´t good enough. My shot wasn´t falling. I usually make those shots. I know that I have more to offer. 9/8 isn´t bad, that is almost a double double, but my playmaking has to be better. I will go back in the gym and continue to work hard on my game.

Will the team be even better in 10 days when you battle Giessen at home?

We will absolutely be better. We have seen Giessen play before in pre season. I will keep defending the other team´s best player in Zac Cooks. I am confident that we will eb overly prepared and get the job done.

Thanks Chase for the chat.

Mychael Paulo And The Dragons Rhondorf Defensive Wall Perplex The Fellbach Flashers Leading To 72-57 Victory

The last game day was a real catastrophe for the Dragons Rhondorf and the Fellbach Flashers. The Dragons Rhondorf controlled the game in the second and third quarters against Frankfurt and led by 13 points going into the fourth quarter, but then totally fell apart and lost by 3 points on the road. The Fellbach Flashers on the other hand lost their first game of the season on the road to Pro B newcomer Reutlingen 92-70 where they had a poor shooting day and coughed up the ball a horrible 24 times. Both teams were reeling for a win and the best news for the Dragons Rhondorf was that they were in their own cozy living room ready to begin a new winning streak. On a rainy early autumn day, The Dragons Rhondorf did an amazing job rebounding after a horrible loss in Frankfurt and came together as a team without Justin Onyejiaka playing one of their best defensive performances in more than a decade beating the Fellbach Flashers 72-57. It was a game where the Dragons Rhondorf didn´t hit shots well, so they responded with an incredible defensive performance where everyone was flying around and they formed a lethal wall in the paint perplexing the Fellbach Flashers time in and time out. “We began well and got out on transition. They then slowed us down when they went to zone. We didn´t hit shots well, but we defended very well. We pushed the pace in the second half and they couldn´t keep up with us. We stuck to the defensive game plan and formed a wall in the paint containing Zeisberger. We also knew that they would get tired. We were flying around at both ends of the court”, smiled Dragons Rhondorf guard Mychael Paulo (193-G-1998, college: McMaster, agency: 011 Sports). The Fellbach Flashers never found a healthy offensive rhythm despite defending well. A big flaw on this night were their 25 turnovers. “We had way too many turnovers and didn´t shoot the ball well. You will never win home or away scoring only 57 points. We need to stay positive and stick together and keep working”, stressed Fellbach Flasher head coach Kris Borisov.

Carlo Schmid at the FT line

The Fellbach Flashers got the quick 4-0 start as it´s 2 top scorers Jonathan Zeisberger and D´Monte Brown scored in the paint. Rhondorf´s defense wasn´t warmed up yet. However Rhondorf reacted quickly as well as young German Carlo Schmidt scored back to back baskets with a dunk and lay in to tie the game at 4-4. However Fellbach could get the lead and keep it as D´Monte Brown was in instant attack mode and showed his inside out game making a trey and a lay in for the 12-8 advantage while the Dragons stayed on par getting an offensive rebound and put back from Ohio native Sahmi Willoughby and runner by German sniper Kenan Reinhart. The game would be a tight affair the rest of the first quarter as Mychael Paulo made a lay in and giant Daniel Mayr a trey to dead lock the game at 16-16. But Brown was a true one man wrecking crew as the Dragons couldn´t contain him as his scoring romp continued with another trey and lay in and the guests had the 20-19 advantage after 10 minutes. Brown had produced 14 points and was on his way of having another incredible scoring game. He had averaged 24,0ppg as a rookie with Aschersleben and 24,0ppg last season with Culture City and once exploded for 40 points against Regionalliga team Braunschweig. Would he be capable of another scoring explosion on this night? “Rhondorf came out with a lot of energy. They showed that their offense always looks best when everyone touches the ball. They were creating good shots”, expressed ex Dragons Rhondorf assistant coach KJ Sherril. The Fellbach Flashers shot 38% from the field and 33% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 5 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 35% from the field and 13% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Jonathan Zeisberger from outside

In the second quarter both teams almost carved half of the points away from the first quarter as only a total of 20 points were scored. Rhondorf stepped up their defensive intensity allowing only 8 points and led 31-28 at the break. A big turnaround in this quarter was the massive shutdown of D´Monte Brown who stayed scoreless and a lot of that had to do with 17 year old German Marvin Nduche who made his Pro B debut with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks. He was a real pest in the side of Brown who got nothing easy and scored nothing. “Marvin did a super job wearing him down. He was physical and was always bumping him. Brown also got the ball often late on the shot clock and was forced to taking bad shots”, commented KJ Sherrill. “If I could give a game ball away then I would give it to Marvin Nduche. He was a real spark off the bench. He played great defense on Brown. He was flying around, but that was no surprise as we always see that in practice. He also producers on offense hitting shots”, said Mychael Paulo. Fellbach kept the early lead getting lay in´s from Germans Jonathan Gerlinger who played JUCO ball at Santa Ana and ex Speyer forward Dennis Diala for the 24-22 Fellbach lead. The game remained tight and Rhondorf did a good job attacking the paint area and getting to the free throw line. Their three pointer wasn´t falling so they found other ways to score. They only had some bad luck being only 12/19 at the break from the free throw line. Carlo Schmidt was aggressive getting to the free throw line hit free throws and also made a put back for the 27-26 lead. “Carlo is a player where his body hasn´t caught up with his mind yet. He can become a very good player. He began to play the game late and has made a big development. That speaks for the amount of potential that he has. I could see him reaching the BBL”, warned KJ Sherrill. However Fellbach was able to punch back with a Zeisberger floater for the 28-27 lead. But Rhondorf closed out the second quarter strong getting a pull up jumper from Paulo and free throws from young German Tom Viehofer for the 3 point Dragons lead at the break. “Rhondorf boxed out and rebounded well. Their full court press also gave them problems to get into their sets. They also communicated well and helped each other”, stated KJ Sherrill. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 29% from the field and 7% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the Fellbach Flashers shot 36% from the field and 10% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Carlo Schmid to the rim

In the third quarter both teams were able to execute better again on offense and there were 6 lead changes. Fellbach came out of the break more focused and punched Rhondorf right away with a brutal 8-0 run to lead 36-31. Brown got back to his scoring ways scoring on transition and made free throws while German sniper Daniel Zacek hit a trey and ex New Haven (NCAA) forward Jason Edokpayi made free throws. Fellbach upped their defensive intensity once again and German Kenan Reinhart continued to be a mystery concerning his three pointer as nothing would fall and his season stat line stood at 2/24. But basketball is a game of runs and sometimes everything goes so fast as the Dragons punched back with consecutive three´s from Willoughby and Paulo to the Dragons the lead back again at 37-36. Nduche demonstrated that he could also do it at the offensive end sinking a trey which was followed by a Paulo lay in for the 42-38 lead. But the Dragons Rhondorf were unable to hold this little momentum allowing Fellbach to finish the quarter with a 9-3 run and 47-45 advantage. In the run the guests got key three´s from Germans Dennis Diala who had improved his scoring average each season in Speyer and Billinger also scored from the parking lot. Viehoefer also hit a trey for the Dragons. “There were many lead changes and no team gave up. We kept fighting and stuck together. Basketball is a game of runs. We did a good job never getting to high or low”, warned Mychael Paulo. “We wanted to make a run and play small ball. We couldn´t speed up the game. We had some good moments, but couldn´t take the momentum into the fourth quarter”, added Kris Borisov. The Fellbach Flashers shot 33% from the field and 20% from the parking lot and had 39 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 27% from the field and 18% from outside and had 30 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Daniel Zacek from downtown

In the fourth quarter the Dragons Rhondorf punched right away and the Fellbach Flashers weren´t able to recuperate allowing them sail into the moonlight with the win. The Dragons Rhondorf shocked Fellbach with a 12-0 run upping their lead to 57-47 and they would never look back. In the run they got two three´s from Nduche and Willoughby while Daniel Mayr added 4 points and Paulo free throws. The Dragons Rhondorf was at it´s best forcing 3 turnovers in Fellbach´s first 4 possessions hampering their mentality. Rhondorf showed incredible energy and on ball pressure. They were also fortunate to hit three´s better and could have led by 20 points had they not missed 11 free throws at that stand point. Best Otakho made a free throw to stop the run. Brown and Zeisberger made baskets, but couldn´t get over the hump as Dusan Ilic made free throws. Brown didn´t give up and continued to improve his personal stats with a lay in to cut the Dragons lead to 62-54, but time was running away. But the Dragons Rhondorf then put a lid on the win with a 10-3 run. Reinhart continued to find other ways to score when his trey isn´t falling scoring twice in the paint, Schmidt scored in the paint while Ilic found Benjamin Sadikovic for an alley-oop dunk as the big man finished with an incredible 5/16 game. Daniel Zacek closed out the game with a trey at the buzzer, but too little too late. “Our 12-0 run set the tone. We wore them out. We finish strong and never took our feet of the gas pedal”, stressed Mychael Paulo. “That 12-0 run hurt us mentally. We defended so well and then lose the ball 3 times in a row. It is hard to win when that happens”, added Kris Borisov. The Dragons Rhondorf were led yb Mychael Paulo with 14 points while Carlo Schmid added 10 points while the Fellbach Flashers were led by D´Monte Brown with 23 points while Jonathan Zeisberger added 10 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 32y5 from the field and 18% from outside and had 47 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the fellbach Flashers shot 32% from the field and 19% from outside and had 46 rebounds and 25 turnovers.

It Was Only Logical that Fin Borczanowski’s First Alba Berlin Bucket Would Be His Bread And Butter Drive Against Basketball Champions League Team Igokea

Pic Credit: Flotograf

Getting those first first league or international competition minutes is always a massive joy for a young German player. Some guys get those first BBL minutes very young as Roy Krupnikas was 15 while ex NBA player Isaac Bonga was 16 years old and current University of Arizona (NCAA) guard Ivan Kharchenkov was 16 years old, one month and 30 days old. Bonga hit a trey in his first game against Ludwigsburg in a 65-63 win a decade ago while Kharchenkov scored 5 points in 4 minutes in his BBL debut in a victory over Weissenfels in 2022. Some guys have all the luck and score in their first game while others don´t. Recently it was time again for a young German player to absorb those first pro minutes. For Alba Berlin double license player Fin Borczanowski (204-F-2008) who also plays for their Pro B farm team Lok Bernau, it was a magical moment as he also was able to taste that feeling what it is like to get those first pro minutes and bucket. But his basket was a little different than that of Bonga and Kharchenkov in that he did it in an international competition match and not an easyCredit BBL game. Was it any more or less special that he achieved it in a Basketball Champions League game? “No there was no difference. I think the fans and atmosphere is the same. There was no big difference for me. It didn´t make me more happy that I did it in the BCL. I mean it was cool scoring my first points in the BCL, but it would also have been cool doing it in a BBL game”, stressed Fin Borczanowski. He is still waiting for his first BBL minutes and points. Alba Berlin came into the BCL game reeling off a tough loss against rising BBL team Trier. Alba Berlin played a lot better winning the rebound duel and taking better care of the ball while also being more efficient in the 2 point area. “This win was really important for us. We didn´t want to have a longer losing streak. We did a good job sticking to the game plan and carrying out what we did in practice into the game. The win was good for our confidence”, stated Fin Borczanowski. Alba Berlin is now 2-0 in BCL play and want to keep that winning momentum high in that competition. “We have to stick together and continue to play together. We have to also defend well. If we can keep up our pressure then we can stop many teams”, warned Fin Borczanowski.

Fin Borczanowski was sitting on the bench following the game when head coach Pedro Calles signaled for him to come into the game. For the German a dream was about to come true. He must have had some crazy thoughts just before entering the court. “I was excited and a little nervous, but when I got on the floor that was all gone. I was very happy I got in. I didn´t think that I would play. I was proud of myself that I was finally playing my first pro game. I just put away and nervous thoughts and played”, commented Fin Borczanowski. He stepped on the court and began playing, but seeing all those fans has to be overwhelming? “Yes it is. But I just set forth to give 100% and block everything out”, said Fin Borchanowki. Then came the extra big moment for the big foreward. He had played his first minutes, but his first points would also come. It was only logical that he would score his first pro points with his bread and butter the drive. It was a great play as he drove by 208cm center Djordje Topolovic. “The drive is my biggest strength. My first step and athleticism is also a big strength of mine. Jack Kayil took a trey and we got the offensive rebound. We then displayed some good ball movement and we ran the pick and roll. They switched the slower big man on me and I got by him and scored”, said Fin Borczanowski. His first minutes and points is something that he will never forget. “Being able to play and score my first pro points was really nice. It made me very happy. I watched so many Alba games as a kid and now here I was playing for Alba Berlin”, expressed Fin Borczanowski. Did he get many congratulatory messages and even perhaps some unexpected ones? “I got a lot of messages. Old coaches wrote me congratulating me which was nice. I didn´t get any unexpected messages from anyone”, added Fin Borczanowski.

This season the young German is also playing with farm team Lok Bernau and has made massive strides with them so far. Last season he played 8 games averaging 3.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg while averaging 10 minutes while this season his minutes have risen to 28,3 and he is averaging 16,0ppg, 5,7rpg, 2,7apg, 2,3spg and 1,3bpg, He has really become a reliable player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. ”My goal this season with Lok Bernau is that I want the team to play well and that we have to stay faithful to our fast style. I want to stay aggressive and be able to score and play good defense”, warned Fin Borchanoowski. After feeling that first pro experience, it is only obvious that he wants to feel that kind of atmosphere again, but it won´t be a cake walk to earn minutes for Alba Berlin. “It is hard to earn minutes, but I feel like Alba Berlin does a great job helping young players develop and just have trust in us young players”, stated Fin Borczanowski. Has the young German found a mentor with Alba Berlin. Maybe a player like Brandon Angel? “No he isn´t. But he is a really nice guy”, said Fin Borczanowski who believes that he would win 11-9 in a one on one battle against him in practice- How about the two German veterans Jonas Mattissek or Malte Delow. Are they mentors for him? “Jonas is a very important player of Alba Berlin. He is always bringing the spirit up”, warned Fin Borczanowski. It will be interesting to see how Fin Borczanowski will continue to develop his game and who knows perhaps he will achieve his first easyCredit BBL minutes in the cup game clash against Bamberg on Monday?

The Miles Vs D´monte Brown Basketball Conversation Volume 2

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who is playing his first Pro B season in Germany with the Fellbach Flashers, He played his second season overseas with Culture City Weimar helping them move up to the Pro B. He played his rookie season overseas with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 24,6ppg, 11,2rpg, 3,8apg, 2,9spg and 1,0bpg. He began his basketball career at Petersburg High School. He then played at 3 schools starting with Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. He then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7% and then played 2 years at Langston University, OK (NAIIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%. He teams up with germanhoops.com to talk basketball every week and bring insight to his overseas journey.

When I checked the Fellbach-Reutlingen box score after watching Frankurt nip Rhondorf, I was shocked you lost 92-70. Were you shocked as well?

Not Really. I feel like we need to lose to see how it feels as well as knowing what to work on. The best teams respond with high level and learn from their mistakes.

Reutlingen is a new team. Did Fellbach possibly underestimate them?

Absolutely. Every team is good. You have to be prepared to be able to come out and play hard. The toughest team is always going to win regardless of what happens.

After a high scoring first quarter where you led 25-23, Fellbach then caved in losing the second quarter 27-9. Reutlingen went on a major run and let it rain three´s, but also scored at will from the near area. Why did the Fellbach defense cave in?

We have to do more at becoming a better defensive team.

Fellbach were unable to come out strong in the third quarter. The offense got to the free throw line, but it was all to little. Fellbach didn´t get their first field goal of the quarter until the 1,25 minute mark. Fellbach trailed 70-49. Was the second quarter too much in your heads in the third quarter?

I think that it was tough. It was our first road game. We stopped attacking the basket.

The game was decided after 30 minutes. Did Fellbach have the same mentality in the fourth quarter. Fellbach scored better, but couldn´t get stops.

We stopped fighting. We needed this loss to become a better team.

This game was a wake up call. What did the team learn from the loss that they will have to do better against Rhondorf?

We have to play better defense and stay more disciplined. We also have to trust each other more. This loss should make us very hungry and respond in a positive way.

You had a solid 14/3/2/4 game and shot 67% form the field. But had 5 turnovers. How do you react after a game like this with that stat line in preparation for the next opponent?

I have to be better. I have to find a way in every situation like defending and rebounding and overall bring more to the table.

Fellbach next face Rhondorf who feel apart in the fourth quarter letting Frankfurt cruise to the win. What will be key for the win?

We just have to be us and play our basketball. Despite being on the road, we have to find way how to be comfortable and take care of business.

Thanks D´monte for the chat.

Niklas Pons(TV Langen) Doesn´t Worry About His Stats Much As Winning And Being Happy With His Teammates Is So Much More Valuable To Him

Pic Credit: Marina Schwarz

Niklas Pons (193-SG-1999) is a 27 year old 192cm guard that is playing his ninth season with TV Langen and last season averaged 11.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 5.3apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 63.5%. In the 2024-2025 season he averaged 12/3/5/1 and helped win the South West Regionalliga title. He also played 3 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors and was a member of the U-16 youth national team. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt.

Congrats on the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt. How big was this win after the first win against Munich.

That win gave us a lot of self confidence. Last season we started at 0-6 and this season has been different. We have realized it is different this season in that we can win. There was extra motivation the last games with Kventin playing against his ex team Munich and Noah against Erfurt. Carlos Hidalgo will play against his old team Speyer tomorrow.

The team is very different. It lost key guys like Paul Albrecht, Noah Kamdem and Musa Abra. Are they missing some pieces that will help them get over the hump?

Their import player was missing. I think that when he is back, they will be stronger. They just haven´t found themselves yet. But they also showed that they could play us strong. We didn´t destroy them.

Did you feel like the game was extra special for Noah Kamdem that played 4 seasons there? He told me it was just another game for him.

I think he had extra motivation. He always wants to win and I think that he wanted to prove to them that he has continued to develop.

He had a big 18/15 game. Could this be his most productive season especially having so many unselfish teammates?

I hope so. I would wish that for him. He always plays for the team. He sets great blocks, has good play in the post, rebounds well and is very vocal. Everything is fitting with him.

Why isn´t he a Pro A player? I never understood that?

I don´t know. For me he is a player that could play in the Pro A. He is dominating in the Pro B at the moment. He was player of the week and if he continues his good play, then he could be player of the month.

How good does it always feel winning a game where you almost always led?

It is great. It tells you that the team is doing something correct. It is always more difficult for the team coming back, because they have to invest more. We could play more free with less pressure.

With what kind of game plan did you go into the game? Erfurt was 1-2. You definitely didn´t underestimate them.

We didn´t underestimate them. They are a tough team and had won a close game against Ludwigsburg. We knew going in that they like using their guard play. We wanted to slow them down more, but at the same time have a good mix adding transition play.

TV Langen led 19-10 after a quarter. You had 7 points. Your first goal isn´t really scoring. Did you just take what the defense gave you?

Yes I did. I try to take over when my team isn´t scoring.

TV Langen set the tone in the second quarter with a 5-0 run. How valuable was it getting stops right away and showing who was in command?

It is always better to have that first run. That allows you to handle an opponent´s a run a lot better. It is just more stressful having to always to come back.

Erfurt went on their first run of the game in the last minutes to trail only 32-30 at the break. What did TV Langen get away from allowing them to get very close again?

We just didn´t hit shots despite getting good looks. We got out or rhythm.

The third quarter showed runs from both teams, but you still led 50-42 after 30 minutes. What did head coach Tobias Jahn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

Coach Tobias told us just to keep doing what we were doing well through the course of the game. That was keep the intensity up, gets guys in good position and to keep playing as a team. We communicated better on ghost screens.

Cooper Creek began the fourth quarter with a 5-0 run. How vital is his play for the team and what do you like most about his game?

He is one of our leaders and a great communicator. He also is a really good defender. He is always jumping all over the place. He hasn´t found his scoring touch yet. He has really long arms. People underestimate that.

TV Langen closed out the game very well never letting up. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?

Not giving up more than 70 points in the last 3 games.

The team is 2-1. Could the playoffs be realistic this season?

The playoffs are a goal like any other year. I think that if we keep playing well, then it could happen. But before that we have to remain in the league. The Pro B south has gotten a lot stronger the last years.

You had a solid 13/3/2/2 game. How happy were you with your performance? You haven´t found your shot yet?

I haven´t found my shot yet. I´m most happy when we play well together and win as a team. My stats are not as important, but more when we win and are happy together is most valuable to me.

Winning is always the goal, but what is your goal this season with your game?

I want to be the leader of the team and help the young players on the team get adjusted well with the league and help them develop further and help win games.

You next face weak team Speyer. What will be key for the win?

We have to play good team defense. They have many good individual players and imports. If we can solve solutions, then we will have good cards to win.

Thanks Niklas for the win.

Noah Kamden Has Found A New Home With TV Langen As All Are Burning For Success

Pic credit: Marina Schwarz

Noah Kamdem (198-C-1998) is a 28 year old 198cm center that is playing his 13th season and first with Pro B team TV Langen. He played the last 4 seasons with the CATL Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB). Last season he averaged 13.8ppg, Reb-5 (8.6rpg), 1.7apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 73.7% He has been a real basketball traveler in Germany having played with Troster Breitengussbach, Nurnberg, Herzogenaurach, Team Ehingen, Rolstock, PS Karlsruhe, Schwenningen, Coburg, Frankfurt and Elchingen. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 71-63 win over his ex team Erfurt

Congrats on the big win over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt. With what kind of emotions did you go into the game playing your ex team?

It wasn´t difficult. For me it was just like any other game. I want to win and that wasn´t always the case in Erfurt. We were only one season at the top. We were mostly in the middle.

The team is very different. It lost key guys like Paul Albrecht, You and Musa Abra. Are they missing some pieces that will help them get over the hump?

Their import is injured. With him they are a lot better. They still need to find themselves. They force a lot. They have to define their roles more. They took many crazy shots. We made the same mistake in the first game, but against Munich everything clicked for us. We like to share the ball. It is always better making extra passes than just one to get in a flow.

How good does it always feel winning a game where you never trailed?

It was super. This game was a lot of fun to play.

With what kind of game plan did you go into the game? Erfurt was 1-2. You definitely didn´t underestimate them.

We wanted to go into the game and play very hard from the jump ball. There is a big difference this season to when I was with Erfurt. We really go hard in practice with TV Langen and that wasn´t the same in Erfurt. If you practice hard in practice then it shows in games.

TV Langen led 19-10 after a quarter. You and Niklas Pons had 7 points a piece. How special is Pons as a player? He had a triple double last season.

It is great to play with him, but also with Carlos Hidalgo. They both move the ball, but also like to do it. They don´t force anything. They really help me be able to score. It is a lot of fun playing with them.

TV Langen set the tone in the second quarter with a 5-0 run. How valuable was it getting stops right away and showing who was in command?

That is really important. In Erfurt we always had our bad third quarter. It obviously helps if you set the tone right away in a game. You shouldn´t go out and play relaxed. You always have to go at the opponent right away.

Erfurt went on their first run of the game in the last minutes to trail only 32-30 at the break. What did TV Langen get away from allowing them to get very close again?

We played too soft.

Why do teams give up runs after having their own run?

Runs are part of the game. I mean when your up 10 points, you naturally tend to relax. Thinking the win will come is present. You have to always play hard and never give up. We play at the Pro B level and runs happen frequently. That won´t happen in higher levels.

The third quarter showed runs from both teams, but you still led 50-42 after 30 minutes. What did head coach Tobias Jahn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

We had to finish the game strong and rebound better and play with a strong will.

Cooper Creek began the fourth quarter with a 5-0 run. How vital is his play for the team and what do you like most about his game?

I think that his two biggest assets is his shooting and hustle. He is a really good shooter. He also has a really good mid range shot. He will make 40-45 shots on 50 shots on the shooting machine. He hit a lot of tough contested shots. We have to create better spacing so he can get more consistency with open looks. He is also a winner having winning records the last seasons. He also played a lot. He played in the UK and then down under and now he is with us. He played like 50 games last season. He is also a really nice guy. He is a real team player. He doesn´t look at stats, but only concerned about winning.

TV Langen closed out the game very well never letting up. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?

How do you get fun. Working hard isn´t always fun, but the goal is fun. When we get stops, we burn for it. I remember when I blocked Anthony Watkins, all were on fire on the bench and cheering. We burn as a team. Our defense and will makes us strong. We play with heart and give our all in practice. That is beautiful.

You already had your double double in the third quarter and finished with a 20/15 game. How happy were you with your performance.

It was Ok. The double double makes me happy. I missed too many shots though. I could have had 30 points. Then I would have been happy. I have played much too long in the Pro B. That isn´t my last stop.

Your averaging 18/11 in your first 3 games. Could this be your best season ever?

Yes it could be. I don´t want to revel too much now. I get so much trust from my teammates and coaches. Having so many unselfish teammates will only help my game.

You next face weak team Speyer. What will be key for the win?

We can´t underestimate them. Cooper Creek and I watched 1,5 quarters of their game against Leverkusen. They didn´t make it easy for Leverkusen. Speyer was present. They have many imports and legend DJ Woodmore. We will play our usual game which is paly hard with good aggressive on ball defense.

Thanks Noah for the chat.

Zakai Zeigler´s(Veolia Towers Hamburg) Height Was Never An Issue As His Mom Always Told Him That He Could Be Whatever He Wanted To

This season there is so much going on with the Skyliners that would invent excitement to watch them play in their living room than other seasons. I mean they have one of the best rosters in the last decade and being able to watch guys like Judah Mintz, ex NBA player Ryan Arcidiacono or Mr Iso Isaiah Swope is an enrichment. However for me, I also can get excited to watch guys from other teams especially this season with the vast talent in the Eurocup. But even in the easyCredit BBL, there are guys on each team that present you with that zeal to enter the Skyliners arena. When I checked the Veolia Towers Hamburg roster, It was a number that first tickled my interest. I saw 175 and was instantly excited. New Hamburg guard Zakai Zeigler (175-PG-2002, college: Tennessee) is only 175cm, but a player that can definitely ball. I have always adored short players simply because I´m short. Back in the day, the first short player I tried to imitate on the court was Boston Celtic Tiny Archibald. Back in those days I also enjoyed guys like Muggsy Bogues, Spud Webb or Piston great Isaiah Thomas. Overseas there have also been great short point guards like Facundo Campazzo, Shane Larkin or TJ Shorts. Being able to see a young and still some what raw player like Zakai Zeigler was exciting. In the third quarter he drove to the rim showing his impressive combination of speed, ball handling, athleticism and agility going underneath and finishing with an acrobatic reverse lay up high of the glass that had me reeling not to fall of my chair. It was that nice. Not only are talented players who are taller, but off the radar and paying their dues in lower leagues have chip on their shoulders, but usually small players have that weighty chip on their shoulders. For Zeigler, there is that chip, but he got the correct motivation, drive and confidence early on to strive for his goals no matter the so called adversary. “ Playing basketball is always what I did. My mom always told me I could do what I wanted to in life. I always wanted to be a pro player and that is what I am. I always liked watching Kemba Walker. I have a personal connection to him since my dad knows his dad. Kemba and I also have the same agent. I always watched how he handles the pick and roll. I also like watching guys like Trae Young and Fred Van Vleet”, stressed Zakai Zeigler.

The Veolia Towers Hamburg came to Frankfurt with a 1-3 record and played the Skyliners tough in the first half, but in the second half were unable to penetrate the walling up and packing the paint by Frankfurt who were able to really stifle the Towers offense. It also helped that they upped their shooting percentages. “We played well in the first half even if we were a little up and down. We didn´t respond well in the second half when they punched. We were unable to swing when they swung”, stressed Zakai Zeigler. Frankfurt were on a mission and never let up in the fourth quarter allowing their least points in the game with 16 and just buckled down like a good defensive team should. “They did a good job packing the paint. I feel like we were too hooked to play the correct way than being aggressive. I think that if we had been as aggressive like in the first half, then the game couldn´t of gone in a different way”, warned Zakai Zeigler. It also didn´t help Hamburg´s cause that they had to withstand a player like Judah Mintz who had the hot hand in so many instances when Frankfurt were on runs. Mintz proved that he was the master of the runs in this game. He finished with 27 points leading the Skyliners to the win. “He is a very good player. I knew him before the game as we had played against each other in college. We talked some smack. He shot the ball well. When he gets downhill, he is great”, stressed Zakai Zeigler. The American who was born on Long Island and played at Our Saviour Lutheran School in the Bronx had 13 points and 2 assists in 29 minutes and shot the ball well at 42% from the field, but felt like he could of done more in the second half after a good first half. “I began strong in the first quarter. I could have been more aggressive in the second quarter. I played Ok. I´m never satisfied”, stressed Zakai Zeigler.

The ex University of Tennessee (NCAA) guard who had stints playing in the NBA Summer League with the Pistons and Spurs and played his rookie season overseas with Nanterre 92 (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) is playing his second pro season with the Voelia Towers Hamburg. The BBL is in a way similar to the France Pro A, but also different and he is confident that his new team can do big things despite the slow start at 1-4 in the BBL. “I think that the biggest difference between both leagues is the physicality. The refs let you play more in the BBL. I feel like we can have a good season. The playoffs are the goal. We just still have things to figure out”, added Zakai Zeigler. He is also very fortunate to have some great teammates this season with young player Noah Thomasson and veteran David Muenkat who had a home coming on Sunday playing against his ex team Frankfurt. “I played against Noah in school. I love his game. He has that James Harden play style. He is great at scoring the ball and going downhill. David is amazing. He is our leader and rebounds the ball so well. He can get on your back, but then turn around and give you a high five”, smiled Zakai Zeigler. So far through 5 games, he is averaging 11/4/2/1 stats in 26 minutes. He has showed that he needs no adjustment time to being an impact player in the BBL. “My role this season is to be that point guard that is aggressive, makes shots and is a lock down defender”, commented Zakai Zeigler. This season the Hamburg Towers don´t have the double stress of Eurocup competition and only have to focus on the easyCredit BBL. The American has one big goal what he has to improve this season. “I have struggled my whole career on shooting and that is something I definitely will work hard on”, warned Zakai Zeigler. As a guy who grew up in the tough Bronx, it must be one of the biggest culture shocks living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world with Hamburg. I bet there are very few people from the Bronx that have been in Hamburg. “Hamburg is amazing. I´m really happy that my family is here with my sister at the moment. When I have some time, I really like to go sit and relax at the Alster lake”, said Zakai Zeigler. He also has found a liking to the great German food. “I really like the bread. I like going to the store and being able to get fresh bread”, smiled Zakai Zeigler. It will be interesting to see if the Veolia Towers Hamburg can dig themselves out of their little hole and how Zakai Zeigler continues to develop this season. I´m sure his dazzling exciting play will enrich other people in other arena´s in Germany this season.

Having Dad Yassin At Games Is Like A Gift For Malik Idbihi(Dragons Rhondorf)

When visiting games in the Dragon Dome in Bad Honnef, you are always bound to see some noteworthy basketball heads. Seeing players from easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets is nothing unusual when they have a night off. However sometimes you also see other basketball figures like a Kamil Novak, the Executive director of FIBA and who played with the Dragons Rhondorf more than 20 years ago or on other occasions seeing basketball 221 meter giant Rolf Bibo Mayer who is the father of current Dragons center Daniel Mayr and at a time was the tallest German alive. But there is also another well known German basketball player who is often seen in the Dragon Dome and that is ex German national player Yassin Idbihi. He is currently a scout for Europe for NBA team Charlotte Hornets and when his job isn´t occupying his time, he loves watching his son Khalid who won the German JBBL (U-16) title in 2026 and rookie of the year and 17 year old Malik whom plays for the Dragons Rhondorf and NBBL (U-19) team Bonn-Rhondorf. He isn´t at all games, but his presence in the ´Dragon Dome is very special for Malik. “Having my dad watching me play in the Dragon Dome is like a gift for me. He is very helpful and supports me like a coach and always tells me what I can improve”, stated Malik Idbihi (193-PG-2009). It was the second home game in a row where Yassin found time to observe his son. His dad who was born in Cologne Germany and also has the Moroccan citizenship played at the University of Buffalo (NCAA) and had a fruitful easyCredit BBL career in Germany with elite teams like Alba Berlin, Bamberg and Munich and won 4 titles was a 208cm center while his son is a 193cm point guard. Do the different positions pose a problem with the learning effect? “Not at all. My dad has so much experience and coached here some years ago. He knows how to coach all positions”, smiled Malik Idbihi. In the summers, they don´t only work on his game, but take family vacations to Morocco. “That is also a gift spending time with my family there. We never play basketball there, but may play some football on the beach”, smiled Malik Idbihi.

The second home game didn´t play out as well as the team win over Erfurt as BG Hessing Leitershofen smothered the Dragons Rhondorf 82-68. Rhondorf had an awful shooting day and didn´t come to terms with the aggressive Leitershofen defense despite dominating the boards 55-36. “We couldn´t hit our shots consistently and had no solutions against their defense. They switched all and we relied too much on our three pointer. On offense, they could do what they wanted. We also couldn´t match their physicality”, stated Malik Idbihi. The Dragons Rhondorf also had problems containing Leitershofen´s veterans Bobby Arthur Williams who hit very instrumental three´s as did ex easyCredit BBL player Joanic Bacoul. The club also got valuable support from young German Connor Anderson who had his Pro B break out with 11 points and also gave impulses on defense as did Jannik Westermeir who´s on ball defense gave Rhondorf´s guards fits. The club doesn´t have much time to think about the loss as they have the next game on Wednesday in Frankfurt and then are back at home against top team Fellbach on Saturday. They will have to be on their toes in the coming week. “We have to play better defense, be more aggressive and physical. We also have to find quicker solutions when our shots aren´t falling”, warned Malik Idbihi. As a young player, he has some veterans who are instrumental for the team and also his game like Canadian Mychael Paulo who can create a shot out of nothing or Sahmi “Dennis Rodman with a jump shot” Willoughby who once had a massive Kevin Love like game at Marietta (NCAA 3) against Baldwin Wallace of 22/24. “I love being teammates with both of them. Mychael is such a great player. He seemingly does everything right on the court. He hits shots and always makes the right decision. Sahmi hits shots and plays strong defense. It is a huge pleasure playing with both guys”, smiled Malik Idbihi. He is also teammates with many young guys. Last season it was Dusam Ilic, Carlo Schmid and David Bonning that made big strides in their games and this season, the club hopes it will be guys like Idbihi and Tom Viehofer.

Last season Malik Idbihi played with Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 83.3% and had good games against Giessen scoring 16 and 14 games while in the Pro B played 9 games averaging 1,8ppg and scored 8 points against Rostock already showing his talent at that level. This season his game really took off in the first 2 games as he came into the Leitershofen game averaging 11/5/4/1 stats. He had a solid 12/5/3 game against Erfurt and then upped his game against FC Bayern basketball with a very efficient 10/5/5/3 game in only 15 minutes and in the two games shot 36%. However against Leitershofen he was brought back down to reality as he had 2 points an 1 assist in 9,53 minutes and shot 0/6. “I wasn´t happy with my game. I missed all my shots and I rushed my shots. My shot release was too quick. I have to work on that. I have to make offensive decisions quicker. My defense was solid”, commented Malik Idbihi. His role is to play 15 + minutes coming from the bench, but his desire for more is huge. “I want to increase it. I´m very ambitious and want to play even better than what I have shown. My organizing got better over the summer., I´m playing the one more. It is all a learning process”, warned Malik Idbihi. Was his consistency in the first 2 games a surprise since he is still such a young player? “No not at all. Actually the way I played against Leitershofen was more surprising. I am super confident in my abilities. I had a bad game, but that is part of the game. I just have to jump back in the next game. I have that next game mentality”, warned Malik Idbihi. He will definitely have that chance on the weekend in the youth sector and this week when he battles many young talents in Frankfurt.

The EPG Baskets Have Best Start In Their Pro A History As Chase Johnson And His Teammates Are Playing For Tyren Moore The Rest Of The Way

Pic Credit: Angel King Media

Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career at the Word Of God Christian Academy. He then was one year at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 seasons at Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. He then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. He then added one more year at Boston College (NCAA) averaging : 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 88-86 road win in Paderborn

Congrats on the big 88-86 win in Paderborn. The team is 3-1 and have their greatest Pro A start in history. How good does that feel as a rookie?

It feels really good. We really expect wins like this. We have big goals. Obviously with Ty Moore out, it isn´t easy. We have to keep going. The league won´t feel sorry for us and we won´t feel sorry for ourselves either.

How proud are you winning the second game in a row without Tyren Moore. Do you guys have that “We are playing for Tyren Moore” attitude?

Yes we are. I remember last night when Badu Buck had us in a huddle before we all got on the bus, he said “We got this win done for him. We are playing for him”. We were all at a loss of words when it was announced that he was done for the season. In our last interview, I told you that we were all wishing him a speedy recovery before knowing how bad his injury really was. We didn´t expect it. It is just amazing to see how all stuck together with 16 down and battling back to win.

How was the bus ride home? Was it more relaxed or was there some celebrating?

It was relaxed. We did our celebrating on the court and in the locker room. On the bus, it was over. We can´t live in the past. We have that next game mentality.

What was the game plan coming in? The team was known as a three point shooting team. They didn´t disappoint heaving it 47 times?

Containing Worku was our biggest game plan. He was my match up. He can shoot the ball, but is also a great creator for their offense. I contained him well. He only scored 4 points. We elected to have other guys try to beat us.

You began the game again as main point guard with no Tyren Moore. Was there less pressure than against Artland or were you totally locked in?

I was totally locked in. I´m used to running the show. Playmaking is really my biggest strength. My shot still isn´t falling and when that happens, then I have to find other ways to impact the game and help my team win.

Paderborn led 23-15 after 10 minutes. They really began hit three´s toward the end, but also found the way to the rim getting easy baskets. What was defensively the biggest problem for the EPG Baskets in the first 10 minutes?

We played the drive a lot and they hit crazy shots. Silic hit some crazy step back three´s. We tried to contest them as best as we could. Gille tried to close out while staying on the side to force the drive. As a result we forced turnovers. We hit a buzzer beater at the end which helped us stay in the game.

In the second quarter a big strength was the fighting qualities of the EPG Baskets. The score was only 43-38, but the deficit could have been 10-15 if Camaron Tongue and Ferenc Gille hadn´t made timely baskets? As a rookie did a quarter like this help your leadership qualities grow?

Yes absolutely. We weren´t hitting shots, so I had to find other ways to get guys engaged. I kept telling my teammates that our run was coming.

What was it like battling against Jonil Fugett. He is another guy who is working his way up the ladder and has big potential. Did he feel your physicality at times?

He definitely felt my physicality. It wasn´t a problem guarding him for me.

How big was the energy needed from German Jannis Sonnefeld? He made a 7-0 run all by himself with 2 dunks. How big was that then at that moment?

Jannis´s energy at that moment was so important for us. My favorite play was his put back dunk in that phase. That really got us hyped. He gave us great support and that was the turning point of the game.

How much does the presence of Camaron Tongue benefit his game?

It helps a lot. Iron sharpens iron. They go at it in practice daily and that helps both guys. Both are key players for us.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz kept fighting and trailed only 68-67 after 30 minutes thanks to a big Jonas Niedermanner trey. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

He just told us to finish the game strong and that in no way did we want a copy of the Nurnberg game. We had to make sure that we stay together.

In the third quarter rookie Camaron Tongue scored 3 baskets in a row and after 4 games is the team´s most consistent player. Did you see this type of development when you arrived in August?

He has been awesome and we appreciate it so much what he does night in and night out for us. He has been playing like that since he got here and he is just healthy now and it shows.

In crunch time, Koblenz made a run to get the 88-83 lead, but they stormed back with a Fugett trey, but you then made a big stop on Eyassu Worku. What was key at the end for the win?

I think staying together and sharing the ball well at the end was key. Our stop of Worku at the end was big even if it could have been a foul. All in all though, we were a bit sloppy at the end of the game. We turned the ball over and let Worku go coast to coast, but Tongue made a big play and walled up. We can´t let that happen to a player like that at the end of the game. We still made big plays starting with a Gille offensive rebound lay up and mid range shots by Diculesciú and I and got 3 stops.

What was the key stat? Winning the rebound battle, 8 turnovers or having 74-49 more shots?

We did a good job with getting offensive rebounds and forcing 17 turnovers, but I think the key stat was having the extra possessions and having 25 more shots.

You had a 6/4/8 game but shot 2/10 from the field. What was your summary of your game?

Like I said in our last interview, if my shot isn´t falling, then I have to find other ways to help us win. I can´t cry about my shot not falling. I just have to get up more shots in the gym. I did my job leading the team to victory. I had 8 assists and 0 turnovers. I can be happy about that.

What will you work on most this week?

I will work a lot this week on finishing through contact. I also want to work on my mid range more. I used it at the perfect time yesterday. I want to use it more. I respect the league and continue to get up reps.

How will you spend your Sunday night? Will NFL football be on the program?

I will watch a little NFL. I couldn´t check the schedule much yet, because I was so focused on game yesterday. My team are the Colts.

But your from North Carolina and not Indianapolis?

That is correct. Most people in North Carolina like the Panthers, but I just grew up loving Payton Manning.

Thanks Chase for the chat.

Bobby Arthur-Williams Jr Hits Big Three´s And BG Leitershofen Lock Down Defense Smoothers The Dragons Rohndorf 82-68

There was a lot of excitement after the Dragons Rhondorf big win in their home opener over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt 96-74 and that didn´t change after they won again this time in their first road game in Munich against Fc Basketball 2. They had demonstrated in their first 2 games that they can rely on their potent offense, but this season´s team doesn´t seem to be one dimensional as they want to defend hard and well as a team as they have allowed only 78 points per game. Their opponent for game 3 in the Dragon Dome was the always powerful BG Leitershoefen as they have belonged to the top Pro B teams the last 2 seasons. This season they arrived in Rhondorf with a 1-1 record in their luggage. They were destroyed by top Pro B team Fellbach on the road and then answered well at home beating the weak Speyer team. They have as usual a very talented team, but are still finding themselves. On a cool Autumn evening, BG Lessing Leitershofen finally came together as a team and gave a great defensive performance for 30 minutes smothering the Dragons Rhondorf 82-68 as both teams moved to 2-2. The guests also had a solid offensive performance having 6 guys score in double figures in the attack. “We played great defense and had each others backs. Our philosophy was to play hard defense as much as possible and limit mistakes. We got the job done tonight”, stressed BG Lessing Leitershofen forward Bobby Arthur-Williams (201-F-1997, college: Pitt St., agency: Starting 5). The Dragons Rhondorf couldn´t repeat their fabulous offensive performance against Erfurt as they couldn´t muster any consistent offense against their opponent. “We didn´t play together and couldn´t generate defensive stops the way we wanted to. Their defense gave us problems which resulted us in playing 1-1 and 2-2. We ran our heads through the wall. We had some good moments where we showed signs of coming back, but it wasn´t enough”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf center Daniel Mayr.

Bobby Arthur-Williams at the FT line

In the first quarter the first half was a back a forth slug fest as there were 9 lead changes, but in the second half of the first quarter, the Dragons Rhondorf were able to get away thanks to a run and lead 25-19 after 10 minutes. BG Hessing Leitershofen did a good job getting German Leon Geissler involved early as he scored 6 of the team´s first 10 points. Young German Kenan Reinhart was aggressive in the early going scoring 7 points of the team´s first 12 points to lead 11-10. His trey wasn´t falling early, so he resorted to his drive which has been greatly improved in the last season. The three wasn´t falling for either team as the guests also had to resort to getting to the rim as ex easyCredit BBL player Joanic Bacoul made a lay in as did ex Lok Bernau forward Friedrich Feldrappe to dead lock the contest at 15-15. The Dragons Rhondorf then made the first run of the game ending the first quarter with a lethal 9-4 run to lead by 6 points after one quarter. In the run, Rhondorf did a good job attacking the rim getting lay in´s from ex Skyliner Justin Onjejiaka and ex Skyliner Daniel Mayr. Rhondorf were dominating the boards especially the offensive glass while the guests had 7 fouls. Bacoul made the last shot of the quarter count as he banked a jumper off the back board. “We executed well and played solid defense. They struggled with our pressure”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Josh Petteno. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 14% from outside and had 16 rebounds and 2 turnovers while BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 43% from the field and 14% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers.

Kenan Reinhart to the hole

The turning point of the game occurred in the second quarter as BG Hessing Leitershofen took a 180 degree turn and exploded for 31 points and led 50-36 at half-time. BG Hessing Leitershofen finally got their offense rolling by moving the ball better and executing better and went on a lethal 28-6 run to lead 47-30. In the run, they got support from many guys like Leon Geissler who added 6 points and was a wrecking machine inside that the Dragons couldn´t contain. The guests also got 7 points from Swiss forward Gael Barman who showed his inside out qualities, got 2 three´s from German Brendan Gregori and three´s from Bacoul and little used young German Connor Anderson. The guests came into the game shooting a miserable 23% from outside and it was only a matter of time where they had to break out. BG Hessing Leitershofen had better spacing and shot selection, but the Dragons also had lost intensity in their defensive game which allowed the guests to finally find that groove. Rhondorf was still getting open shots, but couldn´t execute and began to force more shots. The big Leitershogen run was stopped through a lightening 6-0 run in the last 2 minutes by the Dragons Rhondorf as Onyejiaka nailed a trey as did Ohio native Sahmi Willoughby, but the home team still trailed by 14 points at the break. BG Hessing Leitershofen stepped up their defensive intensity and a mix out of zone and switching was stifling the Dragons with their offensive sets. “They upped their pace and tightened their defense. We weren´t able to scramble the way we wanted to. They also made the right decisions and we couldn´t handle their pressure”, commented Josh Petteno. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 51% from the field and 35% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 30% from the field and 21% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Leon Giessler with the lay in

In the third quarter BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to manage their lead well and didn´t allow the Dragons Rhondorf over the hump as they won the quarter 17-16 and led comfortably 67-52 after 30 minutes. Arthur-Williams who came in the game averaging only 3,0 points got going making a trey while young German Dusan Ilic finally got his first field goal of the game after going 0/6 in the first half, but Leitershofen led 53-38. The Dragons Rhondorf then had their best offensive phase of the second half going on a rapid 12-5 run to get under 10 points again trailing 58-50. In the run, they found some cracks in the Leitershofen defense getting another trey from Reinhart, 3 points from German Carlo Schmidt and 4 points from giant Daniel Mayr who was put into better spots by his teammates. It looked like the Dragons Rhondorf might now have that momentum and make a new turn in the game, but then came the major dagger in the heart of the Dragons as BG Hessing Leitershofen closed out the third quarter with a 9-2 run led by two back to back three pointers by Arthur-Williams. Bacoul also made a floater as his experience was simply too much for the Dragons on this night. His facilitation skills as well as Jannik Westermeiers defense gave the Dragons Rhondorf fits. The Leitershofen defense didn´t allow any open three´s or penetration by the Dragons. “We knew that they would come out fighting. We did a good job limiting turnovers and got big shots from Bacoul and Anderson”, stated Bobby Arthur-Williams. “We couldn´t get stops and gave up way too many easy things. They kept punching back when we scored. When we had momentum, we would give it up”, said Daniel Mayr. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 44% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 29% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 45 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Malik Idbihi at the FT line

In the fourth quarter BG Hessing Leitershofen had no drop down in their game, but finished the game strong never leading by less than 10 points. BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to play exceptional defense and when the Dragons scored it was more on isolation as there was little team play to be seen. Reinhart and Onyejiaka scored with drives in traffic while the guests countered with three´s Williams and Bacoul and led 73-59. The Dragons Rhondorf continued to get good production from Onyejiaka and Willoughby, but couldn´t make ground on the guests as they always had an answer. German Connor Anderson had his break out game in the Pro B with 11 points and scored 7 points in the last 6 minutes, but also left an impact on the defensive end with a steal and block. Anderson scored the last two buckets of the game closing out the win for BG Hessing Leitershofen. “Even when we didn´t hit shots, we couldn´t find any solutions against their defense. We weren´t bale to get them tired after Gustrau and Geissler were out”, added Daniel Mayr. “We switched everything and were flying around. Our defense was the big difference in the game”, stressed Bobby Arthur-Williams. BG Hessing Leitershofen had 6 guys score in double figures led by Bobby Arthur Williams. Leon Geissler and Joanic Bacoul had 13 points a piece while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Kenan Reinhart with 17 points and Justin Onyejiaka had 15 points. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 42% from the field and 34% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 31% from the field and 17% from outside and had 55 rebounds and 19 turnovers.