germany

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

pic credit: Fiba

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

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

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

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

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

Jamie Edoka(Skyliners) Knew 100% That His Corner 3 Was Going In When He Released It For His First BBL Points Against Alba Berlin



Foto: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008) is a 195cm point guard that plays for the easyCredit BBL team Frankfurt Skyliners. He just completed his Pro B season averaging 10,oppg, 3,7repg and 2,6apg as well as leading the NBBL U-19 team into the playoffs. He played his third easyCredit BBL game against Alba Berlin and registered his first BBL points. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the loss to Alba Berlin.

Thanks Jamie for talking to germanhoops.com. Happy Easter. How did you spend easter?

Yesterday I was in Berlin with the team. Today I was home with my family. We all got together and had a nice Easter meal.

You suffered a tough 89-68 loss on the road to Alba Berlin. Did the team still have the Rostock loss on their minds?

I don´t think that the Rostock loss was still in our heads. That was a tough loss to Rostock where we fought very hard and should of won, but we were focused for Alba Berlin and wanted to compete and win.

What was it like entering the Uber arena? Was it as overwhelming as in Munich?

I actually think that Berlin was more overwhelming. My feeling when I entered the area was wow. I have never been in such a big and modern arena like that. It was shocking.

Alba Berlin took a rapid 8-0 lead. Did their aggressiveness going inside overwhelm Frankfurt?

A bit. They were very present from the start. They overran us from the start. They defended very aggressively and forced us to many turnovers.

Malik Parsons kept Frankfurt in the game with his overpowering individual qualities. Where would the team be without him?

That is hard to say. He is an incredible individual 1-1 player. He has helped us a lot this season with his 1-1 qualities. He is a very important building block on the team.

In the second quarter, Alba Berlin remained very aggressive on offense and Frankfurt didn´t execute well on offense. What was giving you as a team the biggest problems executing on the offensive end?

The Alba Berlin guards pressured us very well. We had problems getting into our plays. They denied well and their defensive awareness was excellent.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin continued to be overpowering and led as much as 21 points. How tough is it trying to come back by so much in an atmosphere like Berlin?

It is always a big challenge to play in Berlin. It is one of the toughest places to play in the BBL. The fans are loud and plus they are a Euroleague team that has good quality. Alba Berlin often had the momentum and it is hard to come back against that.

What was on your mind in the fourth quarter? The game was over. Did you think that you would get in?

I had played 3 minutes in the second quarter and had had a good feel of the game. I was supporting the team from the bench and was hoping to get back in. When I did go in again, I was very happy.

What was it like defending a player like Martin Hermannsson? What is most difficult in trying to slow him down?

He is a quick playmaking guard. He is high level that hits tough shots and also few up some alley oops. He can create for himself and others.

You got your first BBL points at the 1,42 minute mark. What did that feel like?

It was a good feeling. When I got the ball in the corner, everything felt good. I didn´t hesitate and shot it right away. At first I didn´t realize that it went in. I realized it when I was running back and saw my teammates clapping and shouting.

Did you know it was going in when you released it?

I knew 100% that it was going in

Do you get the green light to shoot from Klaus Perwas when your open`

I have the green light. He always preaches to not think about it, but make the right decision- I knew right when I got the ball that I would shoot it.

How much hunger do you have now to get the next basket?

I have much hunger. I know that I still have a long way to go to be able to play at a high level. I have been fortunate to play Munich and Berlin in only my third BBL game. I know what I have to do to be able to play at a high level and see how far I am from guys like Theodore or Parsons. With every new practice and game, My fire inside continues to grow.

What did you learn from the bench in the Alba Berlin game? I´m sure you learn something new every game?

I was impressed how Alba played the help defense. They always had an eye open. I watched how well Hermannsson reads the pick and roll and is able to make the right decision. I also try to learn from Theodore and Parsons how they make their hesitations.

Has Jordan Theodore been like a mentor for you? Did he take you under your wing?

I wouldn´t say that he has been a mentor. He is an older teammate that has taken me under his wing in a certain way. We don´t have the typical veteran/rookie relationship. I often ask him for advice and he is always willing to help me.

The team had 22 turnovers. What do you believe did the team learn from the loss?

I think that the Alba game was a good test to see where we stand now at the end of the season. We had a way better second half taking care of the ball.

What was your impression of Alba Berlin? Will they make the playoffs?

I think so. They had a tough start to the season, but have recovered. They belong to the better teams in the last months. They are fine now.

Frankfurt next plays Rasta Vechta who they beat 80-74 on the road. What will be key to getting the win?

Important now is that we can recover from the double week. We will strive for good practices this week so we will be ready for Vechta.

Who will reach the NBA final and who will win it?

I have Oklahoma City vs Boston with the Thunder winning.

Thanks Jamie for the chat.

The Dolic And Volf Guard Show Power FC Bayern Munich Past Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners 84-72

One of the big showdowns for any club in German football or basketball or even other sports is playing FC Bayern Munich. It´s no different at the youth U-19 level. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners met Munich for the first time this season, but for one Skyliner, he hadn´t already played against many today, but had been teammates with many only a week ago. Recently universal genius Ivan Crnjac had the big honor to suit up with FC Bayern Munich during the 2025 Adidas Next Generation tournament. But on this time Crnjac was an opponent again. Frankfurt came in sporting a 8-1 record while FC Bayern Munich came in with a 5-2 record. Despite Munich´s record, they have an unbelievable strong and deep roster that will challenge all team´s the rest of the way and possibly continuing in the top 4 in May. Frankfurt isn´t too shabby either and last weekend won on the road in Ludwigsburg without their big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog. On a mild Sunday afternoon FC Bayern Munich rolled into the BCM gym and showed a strong and consistent game for 40 minutes forcing Frankfurt to play catch up basketball all afternoon long. Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump as they got a bit fatigued in the fourth quarter. FC Bayern Munich was led by the lethal guard duo of Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) and Ivan Volf who combined for 29 points and added big shots in the fourth quarter for the victory. ”In the end we found a way to fight through it. We gave up too many easy baskets 1-1 in the first half. We changed our game plan in the second half. We switched a lot to close the zone. We got steals and got out on transition”, stressed FC Bayern Munich guard Dominic Dollic. The Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought hard, but just couldn´t get over the hump. The guard duo of Dolic and Volf were simiply too much for them, “I felt like this game was at eye level of the 2 top teams in the division. They both know each other and have played together for years and know exactly what their doing. I think we were a bit tired in the fourth quarter. When Ivan Crnjac went down, everyone was shocked. Munich got too many easy rebounds and offensive rebounds. I think the load was too much on the shoulders of Edoka and Crnjac”, stressed Skyliners Juniors head coach Sepehr Tarrah.

Jamie Edoka at the FT line

In the first quarter FC Bayern Munich found to their game rapidly and took the commanding league and Frankfurt had to already get used to playing catch up basketball early. FC Bayern Munich led quickly 12-4 and showcased beautiful inside out basketball and surprisingly only 2 points were scored by the duo of Dolic and Volf as Dolic made a nifty lefthanded lay in. Desmond Yiamu scored 5 points including a trey and Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis who averaged 20,0ppg at the recent ADNE also added 5 points as he also dropped a three pointer. Munich was playing aggressive on ball defense and also getting quickly out on transition while Frankfurt hadn´t found a rhythm. Frankfurt then finally found their rhythm as the big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog scored, but Frankfurt still trailed 20-13. Frankfurt couldn´t get consistent stops as their guard play executed and they also had problems with 213cm big man Killian Dueck who was a mismatch everytime he touched the ball. He also scored twice and was pulling down offensive rebounds at ease. Frankfurt weren´t able to spread the offensive love around as much as FC Bayern Munich as they only had Edoka who added 9 points and Crnjac 4 points. Edoka is about as unstoppable as you can get at the NBBL level. Every drive seemingly is either a lay in or he draws a foul. Down the stretch of the first quarter Jamie Edoka tested his 6,7% three point shooting and dropped one and also made free throws. Serbian Andrijia Sussic and Dolic added lay ins with their lethal speed as FC Bayern Munich led 25-18 after 10 minutes. “Frankfurt didn´t play particular good defense, They had little defensive intensity and had problems with pick and roll, close outs and rotations. Edoka did a good job getting to the rim”, stated former Skyliner Junior Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 53% from the field and 50% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 47% from the field and 50% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Dominik Dolic with the drive

In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners fought back, but were unable to get the lead as they trailed by 1 point at half-time. Frankfurt went on a 8-3 run taking advantage of 2 Munich turnovers to cut the guests lead to 30-28. The universal genius Ivan Crnjac added 2 three pointers while big man Lukas Brendal made a lay in. Frankfurt upped their defensive intensity and were more aggressive on the glass while Munich had up and down phases in their game. Ivan Crnjac got going in the run showing lethal production as usual. “It was strange that Ivan had so much freedom. There wasn´t really anyone assigned to him. But I did notice that Dolic was put on him at the end of the second quarter”, commented Dragon Crnjac. Whenever Frankfurt threatened, Munich always had an answer. It was either the great shooing guards or Killian Dueck. This time it was Dueck scoring back to back buckets including an offensive rebound and put back where Frankfurt trailed 38-34. Frankfurt put on the pressure in the last minutes closing out the quarter with an efficient 10-5 run to trail 39-38 at the break. In the Frankfurt run, it was 17 year old Jamie Edoka who took charge as he was a one man wrecking crew scoring 8 points. He continued to attack the paint area and executed. He always found ways to score or either draw fouls. Maximillain Petters also made a lay in as Crnjac made a beautiful touch pass. Munich got some good support from the bench from Isayah Marcin who made a lay in. Frankfurt´s defense was a lot stronger in the last minutes as Crnjac and Peters both made huge blocks. “You see really how good both of them work together. Ivan told me once that Peters is his best friend on the court. They have a really good connection on the court. Both are big wings that like to shoot, but also attack the close out”, stated Drago Crnjac. FC Bayern Munich shot 38% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 45% from the field and from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 12 turnovers. “Even Frankfurt had problems with the Munich press, I think they were strong in the half court and moved the ball well”, stated Drago Crnjac.

Ivan Crnjac to the rim

In the third quarter FC Bayern Munich had their best scoring quarter as they erupted for 27 points and led by 8 points after 3 quarters. The lethal guard duo did their magic nailing back to back three´s to extend Munich´s lead to 45-38. Both love to have the ball in their hands and harmonize so well together. They have been playing together for many years and that shows on the court. “I know him since the U-12 and we have been playing together since the U-14. We have great chemistry because we are together 24/7. We know how to bring each other into rhythm”, explained Dominik Dolic. Both teams would have their mini runs with FC Bayern Munich keeping their head ahead. Omog scored 4 points in a row, but Munich punched back with a 4-0 run and Yiamu and Susic scored on drives and Frankfurt trailed 49-42. FC Bayern Munich had a good groove while that team play by Frankfurt had disappeared as too much 1-1 play was creeping out of the wood work. Frankfurt never gave up and had a positive phase going on a 12-6 run to trail only 55-54. In the run, Frankfurt continued to use their brilliant individual qualities as Ivan Crnjac made an offensive rebound and put back and also connected on another trey. Edoka also supplied another lay in while young German Ehiozogie Idemudia supplied great support from the bench hitting a three pointer. But as usual this was as close as Frankfurt would get as Munich would always slap back with a clutch three pointer by the guard duo of Dolic and Volf. This time it was Ivan Volf for the 58-54 advantage. This was the start of a 12-6 run for FC Bayern Munich as they got more support from Caspar Vossenberg with 4 points and Killian Dueck continued to be super efficient in the paint area with a lay in Frankfurt got to the free throw line, but missed way too many free throws and trailed 66-58 after 30 minutes. “We were good on the pick and roll defense and got some steals. We work on this twice a day with the pick and roll and zig zag. We want to be the best defense in Germany”, warned Dominik Dolic. “We had problems on defense. They got too many easy baskets. We couldn´t stop their transition. We dribbled the ball too much and had too little ball movement”, added Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich shot 40% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 8 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt shot 44% from the field and 44% from the parking lot and they had 31 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Andrijia Susic at the FT line

In the fourth quarter FC Bayern Munich closed out the game not losing their consistency. Ivan Crnjac had hurt his foot at the end of the third quarter and returned in the fourth quarter, but was no factor. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners got on the score board first in the fourth quarter as Lukas Brendal made a lay in as he was very efficient from the field going 7/8 but had his problems from the free throw line going 1/7. Frankfurt trailed 66-60, but this was as close as they would get in the game. Both teams executed well and went on mini runs as Dueck made a lay and Dolic free throws and Omog made an acrobatic lay in and lock down defender Rephael Edward also madce a lay getting the nice pass from Crnjac as Frankfurt was down 6 again. FC Bayern Munich was able to increase it´s lead again into double figures as Dolic made a trey and lay in a nd Dueck a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 78-66. In this phase Frankfurt missed free throws again as all in all they went 13/25 form the free throw line. Th game was as good as decided as the dynamic duo of Volf and Dolic added consecutive three´s for good measure as Munich led 84-70. Brendel closed out the game with back to back lay in´s as he had his best game in the NBBL with 15 points. “Crnjac gave us big problems in the first 3 quarters. I think him hurting himself hurt them a bit. I think both teams were tired. Many of us had played Pro B the night before. We got key rebounds and were calm on offense. We were also lucky at times making our three´s”, said Dominik Dolic. “We were a bit tired. Some of us also had played Regionalliga the night before. Their bigs hurt us. We were undersized and didn´t box out well. Lukas Brendel played very well despite going against mis matches the whole game”, commented Jamie Edoka. FC Bayern Munich was led by Dominik Dolic with 18 points. Killian Dueck added 15 points and Ivan Volf added 11 points as did Andrijia Susic while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 20 points. Ivan Crnjac added 16 points while Lukas Brendel chipped in with 15 points. FC Bayern Munich shot 41% from the field and 38% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 33% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 21 turnovers.

Jermale Jones Could Never Get Enough Of The Christmas Markets In Germany

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Jermale Jones at Quantez Robertson´s jersey retirement in Frankfurt 2024

One player I really enjoyed covering in Germany over the years was Jermale Jones (185-G-1986, college: Tuskegee). It is hard to believe that in his 14 year professional career, he only played in Germany for 6 seasons. Between 2011-2020, he played 6 seasons in Germany and 2 in Romania and 1 in Luxemburg. Since 2019, he hasn´t played in Germany anymore, but for me personally in a way it felt like he never left. I so him so often in Frankfurt watching his buddy Quantez Robertson play, that it never really felt like he was playing in another country, but he did. Last season he was playing in Switzerland, but somehow found some time in his busy schedule to come to Frankfurt and support Tez during his jersey retirement. He was never a baller who wanted to get to know one country better, but a guy who wanted to explore other cultures. It is no secret that the pay in lower leagues in Germany is not great. So since the 2019 season after paying his dues in Germany, he had had the great experience and balled in countries like Iraq and Thailand and this season is playing in Saudi Arabia for Al Khewaildia (Saudi Arabia-SBL). The pay is definitely better. They don´t celebrate Christmans in Saudi Arabia, but he has celebrated that time of year in other places like Germany, Switzerland, Romania and Luxemburg.

The explosive scorer played 1 season in Bernau and 5 seasons in Lich. One could say that Lich became like a second home for him. Last season he was in Switzerland in Luzern and took in all he could in this so festive time. He like so many other ballers that play overseas has really fallen in love with this time of year. “Christmas times in Germany are so amazing especially all the Christmas markets. It is so amazing for me”, stressed Jermale Jones. The Xmas markets are truly a unique experience in Germany. You have great food that can substitute for a meal as you just can´t stop going back for more. In addition the incredible hand made objects that are made by people can be great Christmas presents. He isn´t a fan of the Xmas markets, but a lover. “When I was in Germany I found myself in the Christmas market every other day. Frankfurt Christmas market was the best of them all to me. I couldn’t get enough of all the people being in the spirit of Christmas and all the food that was there”, remembered Jermale Jones. One can never go wrong visiting a Xmas market in Germany as you will always find something new. The Frankfurt Xmas market belongs to the best in Germany. It is one that has to be on everyone´s bucket list.

As an American, Christmas is a very important time of year for him as well. “It has been very special to me ever since I was a little kid. is very special time of the year because it feels like the spirit comes out of everyone. The giving, the loving and more happy times”, stated Jermale Jones. There is one tradition that he definitely kept overseas. Was it never tempting to undo the tradition and open presents on Christmas Eve the way they do in Germany? “I have never witnessed that”, said Jermale Jones. I can remember 20 years ago that the decorations on houses in Germany was minimal. In 2024, you can see towns in general being a lot brighter than then. But can you outdo the States in the house lights and overall advertisement that is generated each Xmas? “In USA they do it way bigger. People go all out for Christmas in USA. Lights all over there house and yards. I mean the decorations are so amazing and creative”, commented Jermale Jones. Xmas is also a time where the family gets together and share stories of how it was back in the day. He definitely has fond memories of Xmas when he was a kid. “Christmas as a kid was very very special because I knew I had so many gifts coming my way. As a family we got together to open gifts in the morning and then had breakfast and lunch”, added Jermale Jones. He also remembers exactly what his favorite present was as a kid. I´m very sure there weren´t many kids that had the opportunity like he did getting that special kind of toy every year. “My most cherished gift as a kid was every year I got a new bike to ride around the neighborhood”, said Jermale Jones. He definitely had me beat in that category. I definitely had to outgrow my bike and that didn´t happen every year the way I was growing as a kid. Jermale Jones just keeps coming back each year. At the ripe age of 38, he is still playing professionally. I hope he plays many more years. Who knows he might return to ball in Germany as a kind of farewell. If that does happen, he will definitely remember how to get to the Frankfurt Christmas market.

Kelvin Omojola Will Never Forget Begging His German Mom To Open Presents On Christmas Eve In The States And Feasting On Dampfnudeln In Germany

One of the benefits I had as a kid was being able to open presents on Christmas Eve. I was born in the States to German parents and I never ever in my life opened up gifts on the 25th in the morning. I always loved the time in school leading up to Xmas and I could tease all my friends in school that I would got to sleep with a big grin on my face while the other kids would be trying to fall asleep having the night be like an eternity. Dragons Rhondorf second year man Kelvin Omojola grew up in the States and also had German roots as his Mom was German. However he wasn´t as lucky as I was. That USA tradition was kept up for the Omojola family. “When you do it in Germany I prefer the gift opening on Christmas morning, it just feels nostalgic to me. But trust me, especially being a kid, I begged my mom for us to open gifts on Christmas Eve! Being an adult now, I don’t care at all on receiving gifts but rather giving gifts”, stressed Kelvin Omojola.

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27 year old point guard that is playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany. He played his rookie season with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. In his second season he gained experience with PS Karlsruhe Lions (Germany-ProA) averaging 3.1ppg. He took a step back last season to the Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProB)n averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. He led the team to the Pro B title and wants to repeat this season. He is a guy that has seen Xmas in Germany and a person that really believes in it´s values. “I would define Christmas as the season of giving as well as spending time with the people you love the most. Christmas has always been important to me. From the Christmas NBA Games to spending time with loved ones, it’s my favorite holiday by far”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Last season he was in Bad Honnef for Xmas and enjoyed it again this season there. “It was very calm and quiet which I enjoyed”, said Kelvin Omojola. It is no surprise that he has had a mainstay in Germany the last years. Who can resist the Christmas markets in Germany? “I’ve been very fortunate enough to spend Christmas with my fiancé and my family in Germany. The weather and the Christmas Markets are the best things about Christmas time in Germany. It’s a lot different than celebrating in Las Vegas. The Xmas markets are mandatory! That is easily one of the best things about Christmas time in Germany. The nicest gift I’ve seen at the Christmas Market would have to be the variety of food and drinks! The dampfnudeln, glühwein, the different crêpes. You can’t go wrong with any of it”, stated Kelvin Omojola. ´He has experienced Xmas in both countries and he sees a big difference to both cultures. “Christmas is a huge holiday in both the states and Europe. I’m huge on family. Christmas in Germany is a lot more family oriented due everything being closed. It forces you to spend time with your loved ones. In the USA, specifically Las Vegas, everything is open! You spend a couple hours with your family and then it almost another day. I enjoy both though”, commented Kelvin Omojola.

The Las Vegas native remembers his childhood at Christmas in the states as well as I do stats of certain players and he has very special memories from then that still dance and swirl in his head today. “I remember spending time with my parents and sisters, my grandma, basketball tournaments, watching the NBA games with my Dad, everything. That quality time is the reason why I love Christmas so much to this day. What my family did special was on Christmas Eve started with having a light Christmas dinner and then Christmas Day we would open presents! After exchanging gifts we would watch the NBA games and just spend time with each other. I really do miss those moments”, expressed Kelvin Omojola. He is all about family and his fondest memory doesn´t have to do with presents. “The last time my Grandma came to Las Vegas and spent time with my family and I. She flew all the way from Munich so to be able to celebrate Christmas with her one final time before she passed was amazing”, added Kelvin Omojola. Every kid remembers their favorite gift. I remember getting a race track from Mattel toys and he also has a favorite. “A FIT BMX Bike! I’ll never forget it Miles”, stated Kelvin Omojola.

Basketball wise it hasn´t been the best of seasons for the Dragons Rhondorf. They have been very up and down and were sporting a losing streak of 4 of their last 5 games, but cleaned that up beating rising team Speyer shortly before Xmas. Hopefully for the club, this win was a wake up call to the second half of the season. They played as a team again and had their best defensive performance of the season. Defense had been their sore point. Maybe now they will develop a defensive identity. I asked him what would be the second best Xmas gift after that win. He misunderstood my question as I meant basketball related, but as Steve Harvey would say on Family Feud during fast money, “Good Answer”, I agree with him. “If my fiancé was here celebrating with me easily. Thankfully, I have my mom and younger sister flying in to celebrate Christmas with me, so that’ll be great”, said Kelvin Omojola. I would have picked Danas Kazakevicius as the best team Santa Claus. We both do lay on the same wave length with certain topics. “ Definitely either Danas or Antonio Pilpovic lol. Make sure you tell Antonio I said that”, laughed Kelvin Omojola. He had a great rookie season in Germany with Speyer and I remember him hitting Frankfurt in that season for 31 and 27 points. He had his break through season that allowed him the next step to the Pro A. In that last game against his ex team, he faced off against Virginia Wesleyan legend DJ Woodmore. He has had a major impact on his career. “I love DJ. Definitely a mentor for me both on and off the court. Everyone knows he’s a great player on the court with a high IQ and skill level. But off the court? He’s a genuine guy, hilarious, smart. DJ is of my top 3 favorite teammates I’ve ever played with in my basketball career”, warned Kelvin Omojola. I have 3 fun facts about them both. “Both have great smiles, both would pose greatly as Santa Clauses and both are great leaders. Merry Xmas Kelvin and DJ.

Calvin Wishart Will Be In Athens Greece This Christmas But Will Never Forget The Xmas Eve Dinners And Broom Ball In Minnesota As A Kid

One of the great traditions in Germany are the Christmas markets. As a German/American and having lived in Germany now for 20 plus years, I have seen many incredible Xmas markets and it definitely never gets old. I have seen my share of pretty ones like in Frankfurt and Limburg and even got rid of some money for nice Christmas presents in an old castle named Arenfels. The place was perched high on a hill overlooking the Rhein River. The view was simply breathtaking even under the stars. For American ballers in Germany for the first time, visiting a traditional German Xmas market is something on every guys bucket list. It wasn´t any different for second year pro Calvin Wishart (188-G-1999, college: UCSB) who is playing this season in the Pro B for VR Bank Wuerzburg Baskets Akademie (Germany-ProB). But for him walking around in Wurzburg and taking in the great atmosphere, delicious food and hand made trinkets at a Xmas market wasn´t enough, he just had too experience so much more. “I have been able to visit a few of them yes I have been able to go to some in Munich, Frankfurt, Landshut and Würzburg.”, stated Calvin Wishart. The Christmas time for him like so many other ballers overseas is a very vital time of the year. “Christmas is a really important time to be with family and friends. I think that’s the most important thing. Christmas is a magical time of year full of spirit, gift giving, and love. Through the winter time, it being cold and dreary, it’s something to bring up your spirits and enjoy what winter brings with friends and family”, said Calvin Wishart.

The Minnesota native already witnessed Christmas last season as a rookie in Portugal and this season has a massive luxury. In the Pro B, he has a 2 week break. If he would be playing in the easyCredit BBL or Pro A who play during the holidays, he would have to remain in Germany which would still be nice, but this season, he will experience a new kind of Xmas. “I will be celebrating Christmas in Athens, Greece this year with my best friend Anders Nelson”, commented Calvin Wishart. But he will have some interesting stories to tell in Athens about the German tradition as well. For him the Christmas markets remain one of the nicer things, but he also witnessed other things. “I appreciate how people are still outside. The Christmas markets are a good time for people to congregate and share a warm mug and conversations. We had a Christmas party with the Würzburg organization with all the guys and families of the players”, expressed Calvin Wishart. In Germany one opens up presents on Christmas Eve and in the States on the 25th of December in the morning. Would he ever change the tradition if in Germany? “I’m a firm believer that presents should be opened on Christmas morning after Santa has dropped them off via chimney access”, added Calvin Wishart. He also believes that the marketing of Christmas is just as big in Germany as in USA, but believes that one thing is done better here than at home. “I think it’s more decorated here in Europe. Even in Portugal. The towns here do a good job of dressing the city up in Christmas! obviously I’m away from family here in Europe during the holidays so it’s a bit harder, and I have fonder memories of Christmas in Minnesota”, said Calvin Wishart.

I can imagine the American will tell some childhood stories in Greece when he meets new people. Every American has their special memories of how Xmas was as a kid and it isn´t any different for him. “Christmas as a kid was easily the best time of year. On Christmas Eve, my family would host both sides of the family at our home in Buffalo, MN. Mom and dad would put together a big spread of food and drinks for 20-30 people. My dad started the tradition, “Prime Rib Dinner at Wishart’s Tavern” when I was young and we did that every year. We would go to candle lit church service on the eve around 10 pm, come home and sleep and wake up on the morning to open gifts. Growing up my parents really spoiled us with the best gifts”, remembered Calvin Wishart. He also will never forget his favorite gift as a kid. “When I was in 1st grade Santa brought me a PSP, a PlayStation portable. I have it to this day and it’s my most prized possession”, said Calvin Wishart. But nothing is nicer than having the whole family assembled around the fire place on Christmas eve as the dinner is being prepared. There are so many special traditions in families and it isn´t any different with family Wishart. “The Christmas Eve dinners when the whole family would be at our house. We’d also play “broom ball” on our neighbors ice rink. Which is basically skate less ice hockey. With long paddles and a like a handball”, remembered Calvin Wishart. But he still has one order of business before he flies to Greece and that is playing one last game on December 21st. Wurzburg has had an amazing turnround after losing it´s first 6 games, it now has won 5 in a row thanks to the great leadership of head coach Alex King and the dynamic duo of Hannes Steinbach and Calvin Wishart. “A good road win at Bayern Munich going into the break bringing the streak to 6”, smiled Calvin Wishart who believes teammate Eddy Rantz would moonlight bets on the team as a Santa Claus. Unfortunately their winning streak ended in Munich. Now he and the team have a weeks to get their batteries recharged for the second half of the season.