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It Wasn´t Radii Caisin´s Break Out Year In Frankfurt Yet But He Played His Role Well Giving The Skyliners Instant Energy From The Bench

If you were to look at all the leagues in Germany from the easyCredit BBL to the Regionalliga 2 or even further down, it would be interesting to observe how many teams in all those leagues had that one question lingering in their minds for the whole summer, what if? What could have become of our season had certain things happened or not happened. An abundance of questions and questions filling players and coaches heads probably not any less than for many in the NBA wondering if a Jalen Brunson can steal the show of a Shai or Wemby in the NBA finals. It wasn’t any different for German easyCredit BBL team Skyliners who finished the season only in 15th place with a record of 12-22. It was a club that had a lot of potential and quality, but at the end of the season, the question has to be was it put together correctly? It probably wasn’t due to the record. But one is always smarter at the end of the season. The club had a ruthless scorer and rebounder in Jaedon LeDee who simply disappeared at the second Fiba break in February. The biggest question has to be how well would the Skyliners have played with LeDee there until the end. Another question was, where would the club have finished had they simply won more close games? It has to be fair to say that the Skyliners underachieved during the 2025-2026 season. ‘With this team I believe we could have achieved more. I think this season was something that we can build on for next year, even though we had a lots of up and downs’, stressed Radii Caisin (198-SG-2001).

Ups and downs is definitely a correct statement from the ex Vecta player. The Skyliners began 2-3 and then seemed like things would turn around with a 3 game winning streak, however that then followed 4 loses in 6 games. The team would only achieve one more 2 game winning streak and then finish the season with a bleak 7 game losing streak. ‘We couldn’t really learn from our mistakes and dropped some games that we should have won’, said Radii Caisin. After that 3 game winning streak, the Fiba break came. Did that halt the Skyliners momentum? ‘No, I don’t think so. We still had practice in that time too. It was just a tough schedule with good teams in one week only’, remembered Radii Caisin. A massive problem of the Skyliners was losing the close games. It really felt like they couldn’t get any brakes in any of the close games. The team lost 10 games out of the 22 by 5 points or less. Winning 5 of those could of put them in the playdowns. How tough was it to digest that now knowing what could of happened in the season? ‘Even though we achieved our 1 goal, it gives a bittersweet taste, because there was more possible’, added Radii Caisin. The team had a great scorer in Jaedon LeDee who won the Skyliners a few games and also other good closers, but why couldn’t the Skyliners win more close games? Was it truly missing that tough go to guy? ‘I don’t think so. We could not learn from our mistakes and specially in close games the same mistakes came up. Also we couldn’t just close out same games, even though we were controlling or leading that game’, commented Radii Caisin. LeDee was dominant as only could be averaging 17/8 stats and played his last game for the Skyliners on Feb 17 in the loss to Munich. Then he was gone and the team closed the season 3-10. How much of an effect did his absence and the way he left have on the team? ‘Obviously he was good player and playing well. Of course it’s a gap that had to be closed, but still I think the team had enough potential’, warned Radii Caisin. Another curious aspect to the season was the inability to play better defense under Klaus Perwas. Back a decade ago, the Skyliners always belonged to the best defensive teams in the easyCredit BBL under Gordon Herbert and Perwas, but why not now? The team scored 80 points per game, but allowed 86 points. ‘That’s a good question. I think again the problem was consistency’, said Radii Caisin. The team then had real misfortune as there were 9 injuries on the last game day against ratiopharm Ulm as the team’s absent spots were filled up by 6 Pro B players. Casin was also out. ‘I haven’t seen anything like that. Its very tough, but there was nothing we could do’, remembered Radii Caisin who had the Isaiah Swope buzzer beater against Chemnitz as his season highlight.

Despite missing the playoffs, Radii Caisin was able to build new relationships with his teammates and one he definitely won’t forget is Swiss army knife Will Christmas who always gave 180% on the court. ‘He was a cool dude. Very simple to get a long with. His transition game is something that’s something to learn from’, expressed Radii Caisin. Isaiah Swope dazzled with his incredible ball handling and scoring. He is probably one of the best iso players the Skyliners have had in the last decade. How big is his potential? ‘He has a lot of potential. He is still very young. His one on one and his step back is very good’, remembered Radii Caisin. Was there one player that improved the most during the season? ‘I think Jakob Knauf improved a lot and specifically in the last stretch’, said Radii Caisin. The German who played 63 games with the BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaged 5/2 stats with the Skyliners in 18 minutes of time and had never averaged more than 3,0ppg in the easyCredit BBL. Was this his break out season in the easyCredit BBL? ‘It was a good season for me, but I wouldn’t call it a break out year for me’, stated Radii Caisin. He was a player that came from the bench and always gave instant energy, hit clutch three’s and made big plays on the defensive end. ‘That was my role in that team and I think I did good playing that role’, stressed Radii Caisin. In his last 2 seasons in Austria he averaged 30% from the parking lot and with Frankfurt shot 31%. ‘The shot selection wasn’t bad I believe, but still there’s room to improve and make it better for next year’, warned Radii Caisin. He has one year left on his contract with the Skyliners and knows exactly what he will be working on most this summer so he can return in August an even better player. ‘I will still be working on my shot and also more with the ball. Also I will work on my body and try to improve it’, stressed Radii Caisin. In the next weeks the 2026 easyCredit BBL champion will be crowned. Could Bonn make an upset? ‘ I think it will be very interesting. The league is very tight, so everything is possible. Bonn is a good call. It’s going to be Munich and Bambergin the final if you’re asking me. Munich is going to win it all’, said Radii Caisin.

Thore Bethke Knows That Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners Displayed Mental Toughness Twice Already In The Playoffs And Will Have To Master It Again Against Alba Berlin

pic credit: Joshua Hoffmann

Thore Bethke is a German basketball coach with NBBL team Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners. He is currently in his 10th season with the organization. This season he helped the team reach the NBBL Top 4 in Berlin. He spoke to german hoops about the season.

Thanks Thore for talking to germanhoops.com. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners are back at the NBBL Top 4 after a 10 year drought. What does that mean to you?

For me personally this is a huge achievement. I remember when I joined the Skyliners organization in 2016, they had just reached the NBBL top 4 in Hagen. Now we are back again 10 years later. That was my first impression of what the Skyliners youth were capable of then. It has been a long journey the last years. I know so many of the current players since the U-10, U-12 and U-14.

What were your thoughts in November 2025 after your team started losing 3 of 4 games. Did you feel like it could be a long season?

We had injury problems and were at a severe disadvantage not having Ivan Crnjac who was injured. I still felt then that we had a certain quality. We had reached the playoffs last season. We had new players and they had to get adjusted. However our focus was always the playoffs.

How vital was the absence of Ivan Crnjac? Was it obvious then that his versatile play was missing?

We were really at a disadvantage simply because he is such a versatile player. His strong leadership qualities were missing on the court. But then again on the other hand, this phase allowed other guys to get established and others had to step up. Ivan also knew that he had to be fit at the end of the season.

Was the turning point of the season the 2 game series against FC Bayern Munich? You lost the first game badly 106-74, but then won 115-88.

Ivan was back then. We were finally complete in the second game and played a lot better. We understood that we had no problems to put points up on the board, but suddenly in the playoffs it got more difficult. We realized during the Munich games how much potential was in us.

What do you believe did the team learn from that loss?
We learned that we couldn’t take possessions off. We had to play hard. We knew that if we didn’t, we would get punished. The quality was simply too good with the other teams.

The team then won twice and then played IBAM 5 times in a row. How crazy did that feel?

I think being able to play IBAM 5 times in a row was really unique. I don’t think that has ever happened before. Jamie was in the states with the Basketball Without Boarders camp and we also had to reschedule a game. It was a really interesting stretch. We also had injuries, but these games were a real defining moment for the team.

In the playoffs you lost a nail bitter to IBAM 77-74 and then had 2 do or die games. How vital was this playoff series for the growth of the team?

That series was really huge for the team growth. We had our backs to the wall. That game 2 win was so vital. That win really brought the team together. Everybody played for each other. It was fantastic. We all realized then that we could be successful.

What do you believe did your team learn after the first loss to IBAM in the playoffs?

We knew IBAM well after playing them so much. We changed up a few things on offense. We began to play post up. We were able to use our strengths and played with a lot of courage in extreme tough situations. You always want to play at 100%, but that isn’t always so easy. Every player played to the maximum.

Then came the exciting series against Jena. Frankfurt won game 3 in incredible fashion. How draining was that for you as a coach?

We had some tough injuries. I don’t think that we were ever complete in a practice. Jena played an incredible series. They switched in all games and were very disciplined on the defensive end with Biel and Grau. It was really difficult to beat them. We gave Ivan the chance for more off ball sequences. That helped him get advantages to score better.

What did the team do better in the come back?

We defended better in the second half. Everybody was more brave and we got out on transition better. We didn’t hit any three’s the first half. We told Lukas Smazak to keep shooting.

Both teams fought like crazy, but did your team still want it more?

Jena had an incredible season. They moved up from the B group and upset Ludwigsburg. They had experienced many positive things this season. They played at their maximum. They weren’t afraid and played their game. I think that both wanted it equally, but our experience and individual qualities made the difference.

How has the team grown this season?

We became more versatile and consistent on the defensive end. We also did a better job sticking to details and executing.

How special is Rephael Edward of a player? He had 7 offensive rebounds in game 3 against Jena. Have you ever seen a player with a bigger heart?

I don’t think so. I don’t know any other player like him. He is so unique. There is only one profile like him. Players underestimate his IQ. He does such a great job defending the pick and roll, setting blocks and boxing out. I remember we were playing in Heidelberg and were up 20 points. He dived for a loose ball and lost a tooth. He did that despite leading by so much. He is always so focused. All profit from his game.

How have you seen top players Jamie Edoka and Ivan Crnjac grow this season?

Ivan developed a post up game this season. Guys can’t switch on him anymore. He also has become an even better team player. He never has an ego. He always has team first on his mind. Jamie has become even cleverer in his game. He can do it all. His decision making has also improved. He finds solutions even better now and can influence the game better.

Maxi Peters is a bit in the shadow of Edoka and Crnjac. How vital is his play for success?

Maxi plays the 4-5, but is more a position 4 player. He also has undergone a great development this season. He can defend more positions now. He switches better, and rebounds better. On offense he is able to showcase many offensive qualities. He also doesn’t shy away from defending bigger players.

You open up in the NBBL Top 4 against Alba Berlin. The team will be without Jamie Edoka who injured himself against BBL team Chemnitz. How hard is this to digest?

It is a shame that Jamie can’t play. This would have been another highlight for him. Not having him is a big loss for us. He will be able to digest it. It will be very cool to paly Alba Berlin in Berlin. We have experience this season dealing with adversary. We have been in this type of situation before. We aren’t going to Berlin just to visit the arena.

Could this loss hurt the team mentally? How will you deal with it as coach?

It will be tough mentally. But we have showed mental toughness before in the playoffs and will have to show it again. I feel like we have a deep roster. Others will have to step up. Alba might feel some pressure having to win. Some guys from them may hold up. We go in with no pressure. Perhaps we will get quicker to 100% than them.

What will be key to reaching the final?

Alba Berlin always have a high standard. We had a test game against them around Easter. They are a big team, that play with a high intensity, have depth and play team basketball. Rebounding will be key. We will have to find a way to get easy baskets. We also have to play fast, because it will be tougher to get to the rim in the set play.

Thanks Thore for the chat.

2026 Regionalliga Champion D’Monte Brown(Culture City Weimar) Watched Film Of His 2 SAC Titles 4 Times For Extra Motivation Before Beating TS Jahn Munich

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who played his second season overseas with Culture City Weimar 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 spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Congrats Dmonte on helping Culture City Weimar move up to the Pro B. Some have said it was a fairy tale season, but the team lost only 3 games. Did the club have different expectations going into the season?

Yes, the club needed an American to do everything. To be a leader on both sides of the court there was missing that type of person for many many years until they got me and everything changed.

When you arrived in training camp last summer, did you sense something special with the team? Would you have predicted 14 wins in a row until January 31th 2026?

Not at all, it surprised me for sure, because we had a young group of guys

The team showed in that 14 game winning streak that it could score a lot and give up little. Did the team buy in to head coach Farsin Hamzei from day 1?

No, we had to adapt and understand what coach wanted, but the toughest thing was this is was my first year with coach so everything was pretty difficult from the start.

What do you feel was the team´s biggest strength this season?

The biggest strength was needing an experienced player leader giving leadership.

The team had 7 players born in 2007 or earlier and many other players born in 2006. How vital was the overall input from the young players this season?

I’m going to say the type of thing probably was getting the young players to be comfortable of being there self on a court)

You lost twice to Ansbach this season. They seemed to have your number. What made it so difficult playing against them?

I think they had better experienced players than us and talent wise. I still feel like we were the better team.

In the playoffs you met Breitengussbach and won an exciting 3 game series? In game 3 you exploded for 41 points. What will you always remember from that game?

I remember that the import has to take over when needed.

You had 40 points against Braunschweig last season. Was the 41 point game one of the biggest games in your career?

Of course, making 41 points in playoffs is impressive elite level.

You then swept TS Jahn Munich to reach the Pro B. What was key in the TS Jahn series to getting the chip?

Just be us and play our game

How big was big man Lukas Passarge for the success? How did his game grow further?

Lukas has been here for three years and the growth came from it. It was just time for him to step up and be a leader as well.

Did you watch any film on your 2 SAC titles before playing TS Jahn Munich to possibly give you some extra motivation to get the job done?

Absolutely over four times in a row.

You averaged 22/6/4 stats and shot 40% from outside. How content were you with your season?

I was happy because I averaged way more points than last year season however but I wasn’t winning no games last year. This year being in the point guard position I manage to be a leader before anything.

How big was your drive this season to not only have a great personal season but also win more games? Was there a chip on your shoulder?

Absolutely really had to think about my family and my little son.

After having another season of Regionalliga under your belt, how do you feel did your game grow this season?

Finding a right team to build around.

You hit 40% from outside for the first time this season. Did you switch anything up on your mechanics or was shot selection better? What was key in just shooting the ball better?

Working on my game really hard in the summertime shot 1000 shots every day

How did your defensive game grow in a winning culture this season?

Because I want to win so bad

On what areas of your game will you be working on most this summer so you can continue to grow as a player?

Getting bigger

What is the next step for you? Will you follow Weimar into the pro B?

I haven’t decided yet, but a decision will be made on a perfect deal financially.

Thanks D´Monte for the chat.

Kenan Reinhart(Dragons Rhondorf) Loves Pressure But Needs It To Be Able To Reach His Full Potential

pic credit Maik Exner

A little more than 2 years ago German basketball fans in Germany witnessed an incredible JBBL (U-16) semi final between Alba Berlin and the RheinStars Cologne. It wasn´t Larry Bird vs Dominique Wilkins, but Matthieu Grujicic of Alba Berlin (35 points) and Davi Remagen of Cologne (41 points) that offered an incredible scoring battle that showed once again how much talent is in Germany. These two 16 youngsters played the game they love and showed absolute no fear playing as if they were all alone on a court. But there was one more player on the court who had just as much talent, but was a bit in the shadow with Kenan Reinhart (194-SG-2007) who supplied 16 points in the 84-79 loss to Alba Berlin. 2 years later both Grujicic and Remagen are playing in the NCAA and profiting from NIL while Reinhart is in Germany playing in the Pro B for the Dragons Rhondorf. All 3 guys have gone separate ways and are on a mission to continue to develop further. All 3 have some pressure, but for Kenan Reinhart it is a kind of pressure that he can live and deal with. Last season he averaged 3,0ppg in 10 minutes. I can imagine he will average 20 plus minutes this season and will have to step up as a teenager in the Pro B. “I make a lot of pressure for myself, because I have high expectations of myself. My season was unacceptable last season. I want to make the next step so I need to prove myself in the Pro B. I really like this pressure, because I need it to reach my full potential”, warned Kenan Reinhart.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Kenan Reinhart in the Dragon Dome 2025

Kenan Reinhart who is a mix of Andi Obst and Reed Shepherd on the court is very excited going into his second season with the Dragons Rhondorf. “I have mixed feelings. On the one hand, I´m very excited and on the other hand very happy. I understand that I will have a bigger role while having a complete new team. We will see what the season brings us”, smiled Kenan Reinhart. One of the biggest changes was bringing in a head coach with Max Becker. At first glance he looks like a kid and could be Reinhart´s teammate, because he looks so young, but he is already 26 years old and had done a good job with the Telekom Baskets Bonn youth department. His smile is infectious, but can he ever get mad? “He may look like a kid, but he can get mad. Then he definitely doesn´t act like a kid. He is still young, but I´m confident that he will do a good job”, stressed Kenan Reinhart. Becker has already stressed early in pre season exactly what his basketball philosophy will be. “Max wants us to push the ball and play as fast as possible. If that doesn´t work, then we will do the set offense. We want to play good defense and function as a team”, stated Kenan Reinhart. The question will be can this team be successful with a new young coach and young team? Will there be enough consistent fire power besides from Jorge Mejias and Juhwan Harris Dyson? “This season we are playing in the North which is tougher than the south. I feel like the hunger was missing a bit last season. This season we have a good mix of old and young and have hunger. I think we have other possibilities to score with Daniel Mayr, Duje Dujmovic, Lagi Diallo and myself. Vuk Scepanovic can also hit the occasional three pointer. We will see from game to game which scorers will evolve”, warned Kenan Reinhart.”, warned Kenan Reinhart.

The ex RheinStars Cologne guard who beats Vuk Scepanovic everytime in a battle of 1-1 in practice has many new teammates this season. He has been joined by 2 young big men with Benjamin Sadikovic and Duje Dujmovic. Can they be stable scorers at the Pro B level? “I thought that Sadikovic was older when he signed. He is a stable center that is great on the pick and roll. I was teammates with Dujmovic once already in Cologne. He is also hungry and continues to develop nicely”, said Kenan Reinhart. One player that will produce not only in the scoring department, but fill the stat sheet like Kam Taylor and Curtis Hollis from back in the day will be Juhwan Harris Dyson. “I really adore his physicality. He is always playing hard. He gives his all in each movement. His effort is excellent. He is simply a high level player”, warned Kenan Reinhart. Another player that will be watched with enjoyment is young player Dusan Iiic who had a great youth career with BBA Hagen. Last season he averaged 20,0ppg and 10,0apg in the NBBL. It seems like despite his young age of 17 could also play an instrumental role. Could he have a break through season like Janne Muller 2 years ago? “I think he can. This will be his first Pro B season. It will be interesting to see how well he can produce. He will be a vital player that we will count on”, commented Kenan Reinhart. The leader of the team will be Spaniard Jorge Mejias who has a lot of experience like Daniel Mayr and was walking around the Real Madrid training facility 8 years ago and bumping into Luka Doncic. “I´m really happy to play with him and against him in practice every day. I´m working on my court vision and passing. There is nobody better than to learn those things from than him. I´m learning fast. He does it all”, warned Kenan Reinhart. The team has many talented young guys like Schmidt, Volkers, Scepanovic, Boning and Dobiecki. Is there a player form this bunch that could make the biggest splash in the Pro B this season? “I think that Carlo Schmid will be the guy. He has only played basketball for 2 years. He has a good body for basketball. I believe he can play well at the Pro B level”, added Kenan Reinhart.

The sniper who lists big man Andreas Seifert as the toughest player that he has ever faced on the court is more than eager to make the next step this season. His expectations and goals are high. “I want to help lead the team into the playoffs as a starter. I want to not only stand in the corner and shoot three´s, but be versatile. I want to be able to do it all and integrate, rebounding, passing, scoring and defense into my game”, said Kenan Reinhart. Last season he averaged 3,0ppg in 10 minutes of time. Can he average scoring in double figures this season? “I think I can. I won´t do it each game, but I feel like I will be consistent”, explained Kenan Reinhart. He only shot 23% from the parking lot in the pro B last season. It is only obvious that he wants to improve those percentages drastically. “My three pointer is one of my best qualities. I have high goals with my three pointer. My team is counting heavily on me. I have to have a good shooting season”, warned Kenan Reinahrt. But he doesn´t only want to make an impact on the offensive end, but also on the defensive end. His ex head coach 1993 Euro winner Stephan Baeck always told him that if he defends well than he will stay on the court. “I want to average at least 1 steal per game. My goal is not to let my guy score on me”, stressed Kenan Reinhart. He definately has the right mind set as he is getting up many shots every day and always trying to prefect his craft. “I think that if I add it all up, I get up about 300 shots on the machine and in total 500 shots a day. When I´m spot up shooting, I make around 80% with the first 100 shots, 70% with the second 100 shots and somewhere between 65%-70% with the last 100 shots”, added Kenan Reinhart. It will be interesting to see where the journey of the Dragons Rhondorf will go this season and how well Kenan Reinhart continues to develop. In the last few years, I was helping rebound for Janne Muller before games. I mostly heard only swish with his mid range shot. Maybe this season, I can rebound for Kenan Reinhart and then hear swish when he is firing away from down town before games.

Nate Watson(Panionios Athens) Can´t Be Content With His Game Now But Needs To Keep Working Hard And Improving To Reach The Euroleague One Day

Nate Watson (208-C-1998, college: Providence, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 26 year old 208cm center playing his fourth professional season and first with Panionios Athens (Greece-GBL). Last season he played with AS Karditsa Iaponiki (Greece-GBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 67.4%, FT: 47.7%, later signed with Casademont Zaragoza (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 52.2%. In the 2023-2024 season he played with KK FMP SoccerBet Beograd (Serbia- Adriatic League averaging 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 63.6%, FT: 58.5%. He played his rookie season with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 9.6ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 63.4%, FT: 63.9%. He began his basketball career at Bishop O´Connell High School and then played at Providence College (NCAA) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 154 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Eurocup game against easyCredit BBL team Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Nate for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your fourth pro season and second in Greece and first with Panionios Athens. What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization?

The experience has been nice. I love Greece and I love being here. Playing for this organization is great. The coach is good and I love my teammates. The chemistry is great and we can still get better.

After 2 seasons in the Czech Republic and Serbia you had your break out season overseas last season playing well in Greece and reaching the ACB in Spain. Is your confidence because of that on an all-time high?

I had my break out season last season and it definitely boosted my confidence, because the ACB is one of the best leagues in Europe if not the best. I played really well against Euroleague teams and it definitely gave me confidence. I hope one day to reach the highest level.

You averaged 14/7 in Greece last season. Do you feel like your game is specially well suited for the style in the GBL?

I think that my game is suited really well for Greece, but I feel like it also depends on the situation I´m in. Having chemistry with my teammates and coaches all matter. Fortunately I had so much chemistry last season. It was just me, but a whole collective effort that helped me be successful.

What is your biggest goal as a player this season besides winning games? Is becoming a well known big man in the GBL a goal?

My biggest goal is just to be the best that I can be. I want to win titles and just continue to grow as a player and become a better player every year.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 208cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I don´t really compare my game to any NBA bigs, but just try to pick up skills from many different players. I used to always watch Al Jefferson who was a really good post player. Sometimes I like to try to steal his moves like his up and under or ball fakes or bully ball to the rim. I don´t believe that I´m a one way 5 player. I can do many things like play 1-1 in the post or catch alley oops.

You demonstrated in the NCAA and Czech Republic that you can be a valuable shot blocker. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I want to become an elite defender and be able to guard all 5 positions. Sometimes late in the shot clock, you have to switch on the point guard and I want to be able to do that at an elite level. I showed that I could do that last year, but I want to be bale to do it consistently. I also want to become a better shot blocker. Not only blocking my man, but also other guys coming into the zone. I don´t want anyone to score on me or my team.

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

I´m working most on areas outside the paint. I´m working on shooting jumpers and also playmaking.

Last season you split time with AS Karditsa Iaponiki (Greece-GBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 67.4%, FT: 47.7%, later signed with Casademont Zaragoza (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 52.2%. You got a first tast of Greece and held your own against Euroleague team Panathinaikos and Olympiakos. Which player do you remember standing out most then from those 2 clubs?

The 2 players that stood out the most were Alexsandar Vezenkov who is an amazing player. He can get so many points without dribbling. He rebounds really well. He really just does everything so well. I remember my adrenaline being so high against Panathinaikos, because I was so excited, I don´t really remember so much from that game. All I remember is Omer Yurtseven. I had already played against him with Providence when he was with Georgetown. He really stood out the most, because he has a big body and played really well against us.

You then finished in Spain and had good games against Euroleague teams FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. Did games like these and in Greece give you confidence that you could be a Euroleague player one day?

Playing well against Euroleague players definitely gives me confidence that I could be a Euroleague player one day. But I can´t be content with how I´m playing right now. I have to continue to keep working hard every day and get better

You played your second pro season with KK FMP SoccerBet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 3.5ppg, 1.8rpg; and in the Adriatic League averaged 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 63.6%, FT: 58.5%. What memories do you have of this season. You had some growing pains. Despite that what positives could you gain from the season?

I definitely did have some growing pains in Serbia. I don´t know if the situation was bad or I was? I just didn´t work out. I went from having a bad season in Serbia to having a great season in Greece. It was a humbling season in Serbia. I wanted to get better so I got stronger and better in shape so I could be better. I took no days off. I was first in the gym and last to leave. I had a statement to make. I wanted to prove everyone wrong who had doubted me in Serbia. I think that I did that.

You played your rookie season with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL) averaging 9.6ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 63.4%, FT: 63.9%; and in the BCL averaged 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 58.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I knew that I was far from home when I was at the grocery store and I was asking for Mayonnaise and nobody knew what I was talking about. Nobody really knew what I was talking about and the village I was living in was called Podebrady and it was very small.

What was it like being teammates with legend Petr Benda who has won an incredible 27 titles with Nymburk? Was he like a mentor for you?

It was an amazing experience being his teammate as a rookie. He won so many titles for Nymburk and was also a big like me. He was always in my ear and how to become a better player. We always battled in practice. He was an old man, but very strong. It was definitely a good experience going against such an experienced player every day in practice.

You played at Providence College (NCAA) from 2017-2022 reaching 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Texas A& M and then losing to Kansas. What do you remember most from the second run at March madness?

In my second run at March Madness, it was a great time. It was a dream to get so far. It was really hard losing, because it was my last NCAA game. It really hurt to lose, but just a great experience to get that far. Even if we lost to the champions, it was cool being able to play against them.

You had 3 great games against Butler as a senior. Was one of these games your fondest moment in the NCAA?

My fondest moments from these games was just how hard everyone plays. For some players, it is their last game as a college player, so they give all that they got. There is a lot of emotion on the court and you have people crying after the game. Everyone is my locker room were shedding tears. We knew it was over. We knew that we would never play a college game again. It is a bitter sweet moment knowing you have things after college most likely being a professional athlete or make money in the real world. There is this uncertainty that you don´t really know what will happen. That is why there is so much emotion.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

The toughest player I faced was Markus Howard who went far in Europe. He scored 50 points against us. He was a great player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

My teammates from Providence David Duke, Alpha Diallo, Aljami Durham, Noah Horchler, Jared Bynum

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, Lebron James and Nikola Jokic

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I didn´t see it, but like always sequels are never as good as the first one. It probably makes sense to leave it alone.

Thanks Nate for the chat.

Head Coach Max Becker(Dragons Rhondorf) Wants To Help Bring Excitement Back To The Dragon Dome

pic credit: Martin Jung

Only a couple of seasons ago, the Dragons Rhondorf were about to commence on their breathtaking Pro B title season that presented so many happy faces in the Dragon Dome that season. Germany had just become World Champion and Harry Kane was in the starting gate of his scoring mission and winning ways with FC Bayern Munich. Who can forget the players that season that featured guys like Kelvin Omojola, Avery Sullivan, Tyrese Blunt and Badu Buck. Those are memories that will last a lifetime. Only 1 player remains from that season with Lagui Diallo and from last season add on Kenan Reinhart. A lot has changed in this time, but if a Dragon fan becomes really sad and wants to relive those memories in another place, who knows it might happen only a short 49 minute 41 kilometer ride down the Rhine river to Koblenz. There you will see coaches Dohrn, Sherril and Schallenberg as well as Badu Buck. But that is in the past and the Dragons Rhondorf want to make new history this season. They made a house cleaning and inserted a new coach with 26 year old Max Becker . At first glance, he looks like a kid, but he definitely coaches like a man. ““He may look like a kid, but he can get mad. Then he definitely doesn´t act like a kid. He is still young, but I´m confident that he will do a good job”, stressed Kenan Reinhart. Becker did a good job coaching the Bonn/Rhondorf NBBL team and knows his new team well as he has guys from last season´s team this season. “I´m not nervous, but have positive joy. I have full confidence of all involved. I´m really motivated for the season”, stated Max Becker . Does he feel pressure taking over the pro B team? “Not really. I feel relaxed. I have incredible people around me from Bonn/Rhondorf and their full trust. The work ethic and communication of all is very positive. I mean there is always pressure, but that is why we do the job”, expressed Max Becker . His personal goal is straight forward. “I want to bring that fan excitement back to the Dragon Dome. We have had our ups and downs the last season. I was born into this organization. I know what kind of excitement has been here before. I want to help bring that excitement back”, warned Max Becker.

The organization hauled in a core of 3 very experienced players that will be share the responsibility of leading the team. With giant Daniel Mayr, they have a player that has Euroleague experience with FC Bayern Munich and was the best shot blocker in the Pro B 3 times. With Juhwan Harris-Dyson, their new version of a Swiss army knife who by the way is a scoring bucket having showed it in Herford and Hagen and Jorge Mejias who played youth basketball at Real Madrid at the same time as Luka Doncic was there a few years before his departure to the NBA in 2018. Mejias is a solid scorer and great playmaker who averaged 6,0apg with Iserlohn last season. With Lagui Diallo the team has a great team player and energizer that can get hot at times from outside and shut down the other teams best player. Ex RheinStar Cologne guard Kenan Reinhart has high expectations this season and would like to average 10,0ppg in the Pro B. Will he make the next step? “Kenan is very ambitious. He knows what he gets from me and I from him. He has worked hard. I feel like he has already improved his game this summer. I see him taking on a bigger role”, warned Max Becker . The club also hauled in talented big men Duje Dujmovic and Benjamin Sadikovic. Dujmovic made the next step in Neustadt last season averaging 10/4 and Sadikovic averaged 5/4 in Oberaching last season. “They both have a lot of potential despite their age. Both are really focused and alert in the BBL Bonn practices”, stated Max Becker . Another interesting pick up was Dusan “Mr quick release” Ilic who averaged 20,0ppg and 10,oapg with BBA Hagen in the NBBL. He is only 16, but has the potential for the next step. The team also has many young guys with Carlo Schmid, Remi Voelkers, Vuk Scepanovic, David Boning, Leonard Franzen, Fynn Dobiecki, Malik Idbihi and Tom Viehofer prepared to get minutes. “We have 10 of the 16 man roster that are NBBL players. They all will have a chance to play, but need to earn it”, warned Max Becker .

So what kind of a play style will the Dragons Rhondorf showcase in games? “We will play at a high pace with quick decisions and play very aggressive defense. We want to take the advantages that are presented to us on the court with our height, shooting or on the pick and roll”, warned Max Becker . Two years ago, the Dragons Rhondorf had 3 very potent bigs with Avery Sullivan, Leon Bullic and Ferenc Gille, but despite that were more of a shooting team. Last season, they had even less of a big man presence with only center Danas Kazakevicious. This season there are 3 bigs. Will there be more focus on the bigs? “Yes definitely. We will focus on the pick and roll and have more opportunities as well to get our shooters involved. Our bigs will be very much involved”, commented Max Becker . Will the team have enough scoring power? Will there be more go to guys than only Mejias, Harris-Dyson or Mayr? “I feel like we have a very balanced team. It will always depend on the game, opportunity and situation. I have the highest confidence that everyone will have the confidence to take the big shot”, warned Max Becker . On defense the name of the game will be being aggressive. That is something that each player will have plastered in their mind. “We will be aggressive at all times in all defensive forms. We will always be active on defense and not be passive and react”, stated Max Becker . Becker is very confident in his time so early in the season and also has an ambitious season goal. “We want to get the best positive result in the standings and in the development of the players. We believe in ourselves and want to reach the playoffs”, warned Max Becker . It will be interesting to see where the journey of the Dragons Rhondorf will go. They will have to find a defensive identity quickly as the Pro B North is never a cake walk. We know what we will get from the experienced guys, but getting consistency from young players will be vital for the team having a shot at the playoffs. I see the team landing somewhere between 7-11 in the season

KJ Sherril Starts A New Coaching Chapter With The EPG Guardians Koblenz

KJ Sherrill (203-F/C-1991, college: Augusta) is a 33 year old 203cm forward that enjoyed a 8 year pro playing career overseas. He played with the Bona Baskets Limburg, the SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga), Dragons Rhondorf, Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 team, Herten and the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA). He played college ball at Charlotte (NCAA) from 2009-2012 playing 75 NCAA games and also played a season at Augusta University (NCAA2). He was an assistant coach with the Dragons Rhondorf from 2023-2025 and now will be an assistant with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. He spoke to eurobasket about the 24-25 season with the Dragons Rhondorf and his future with the EPG Guardians Koblenz.

Thanks KJ for talking to eurobasket.com. It was a tough season for the Dragons Rhondorf. Was it still a minor success for reaching the playoffs?

Yes definitely was a tough season for us, but I take it as a learning experience. I’d say it was an unexpected accomplishment for us making it to the playoffs.

Still the Dragons gave all they had in their last home game. How proud were you of the team and how they played?

We knew the game was going to be a very tough one, Leverkusen was the best team in the league but the effort we gave that game was great! If we played the same way the whole season, we would’ve also been a top team. I’m very proud how we fought against them. We showed heart!

The second quarter in game 2 against Leverkusen was the best defensive quarter of the season for the Dragons. How special was it for you being a part of that?

It was great seeing our guys making consecutive stops and being very engaged as a team defensively. I believed at that moment we were very hungry and wanted to prove that it wasn’t going to be easy for Leverkusen as to what people were thinking it would be.

The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not?

Overall I think the season was a big learning experience for us all, even us coaches. We had a very young and talented team with great vets, but not practicing with a complete team daily was a bit frustrating for us all. Unfortunately, it showed on the court with the way we lost games.

Can one say the season was up and down? The team never had more than a 2 game winning streak. What do you believe hindered the team from winning more games?

The season definitely was a roller coaster but I think we were beyond a better team than what our ranking says. Our biggest problem was not playing as one unit, but also everyone not practicing with one another daily was the issue.

Defense was a problem. How did you see the development of the defense and the team overall this season? Was it able to develop further?

Defense is best when the whole team is on the same page. Communicating and making stops is what we lacked, but when we did show it, we could stop any team!

How did you see the development of the young players? Was there a player that developed the best? Perhaps Josh Behrend?

My relationship with the young guys was amazing! Josh, Dyami, Kenan, and Aurel all developed over the season in my eyes. Each one worked out their game daily, even when there were times neither guy played in games. They never complained and always came to practice ready to work. They all have my biggest respect!

How did you see the development of Tim Smith Jr? Is he ready for the Pro A?

Tim Smith Jr was one of the best scorers in the league. To see his worth ethnic was great and I know for sure he’s ready for Pro A. Really hope he gets the opportunity. I know he will succeed no matter where he plays.

How did you see the development of Alex Lagerman? He took on more responsibility in the second half of the season.

I would say Alex Lagermann was by far one of our best scorers. His ability to get to the rim but also knock down three pointers was phenomenal. Alex showed us that he could be one of our best scorers on the team, he definitely took on a great role in the 2nd half with his elite scoring.

Who was the most improved player on the Dragons team?

Most improved goes to Lagui Diallo. Even if he didn’t get the biggest opportunity and didn’t have a big role, he had the hardest work ethic and he practiced hard every single day.

Who was the MVP of the season for the Dragons?

MVP goes to Tim Smith Jr.

Welcome back to Koblenz. How happy are you to be part of the Guardians coaching staff?

Very happy and grateful for the opportunity to be back in Koblenz with a new role but I’m even more excited to be coaching with Stephan Dorhn and Kai Shallenberg. Excited to coach in the EPG Arena and make my coaching debut in Pro A.

How excited to be coaching in the Pro A? What will be your biggest coaching quality that you will give the EPG Guardians?

My biggest role will be player development. Training the guys individually as well as in practices. I also will help them become as comfortable as possible by building trust. The more comfortable they are on the court the better they will play.

In 2020, you played your last Regionalliga game there and 3 years later the club was in the Pro A via the Pro B. Did you see that coming?

I knew with the potential the Koblenz organization had, that they would strive to make it to the top leagues.

You played 2 seasons in Koblenz. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

My 2 years in Koblenz was very nice! We were successful on the court, but the relationship I built with my teammates was the best. Players like Yassin Mahfouz and Zaire Thompson made playing for Koblenz exciting. Best moments had to be winning games with them being apart of the success.

How much respect do you have for Thomas Klein? Is there a basketball manager in Germany that has more heart for their team than him?

My respect level is beyond high for Thomas Klein. His passion for the club is like no other. I am great appreciative for him allowing me to rejoin the club. Couldn’t be anymore happier!

You and Dohrn were very successful in Rhondorf. How confident are you that the EPG Guardians will also be successful now with you?

We are hoping that we can keep the same success while in Koblenz. We know things may get tough, but us coaches have a strong bond and we will get the guys in the right position to win. I’m very confident!

Unfortunately Kelvin Omojola won´t follow you, because he has retired and will seek his masters at UNLV. How proud are you of his decision?

Sad to see Kelvin retiring but the opportunity he has is great for him! When he told me the news I was happy for him and very proud! A lot of people don’t get that opportunity, so he deserves it!

I always sensed that you had a great relationship with Kelvin. What will you miss most from him?

Kelvin will definitely be the one who I miss the most. We’ve spent 2 years together and have built a brotherhood. Not seeing him or hearing his jokes everyday will be highly missed.

You had many great memories together. What was your nicest memory with him?

The memories Kelvin and I have are endless. Being with each other every day for the last 2 season has created so many memories. Maybe us having our German Lessons together will be the best memories and of course him playing the biggest role in us winning the Pro B championship.

It looks like OKC will meet Indiana in the NBA final. Will SGA be to much for Haliburton? Who will win it all?

I’m hoping SGA takes home the trophy! One of the best guards in the league.

Thanks KJ for the chat.

It Is Great To See That One Of The Pro B´s Big Identity Figures With DJ Woodmore Will Be Back With Speyer For A 9th Season

DJ Woodmore (190-SG-1992, college: VWU) is a 33 year old 190cm point guard that completed 10th professional season and 8th with the Ahorn Camp Bis Baskets Speyer averaging 16,8ppg, 4,9rpg, 3,5apg and 1,3spg. Last season with Speyer he averaged 17.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 4.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 82.9% and 2 seasons ago averaged 16.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.1apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 86.6%. Three seasons ago he averaged 15.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 81.0%. In the 2020-2021 season with the EPG Baskets Koblenz he averaged 13,3ppg, 6,0rpg, 4,3apf and 1,3spg. In 2019-2020 with the Morgenstern BIS Basket Speyer (Germany-ProB) he played 21 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 87.3%. In 2018-2019 13.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 71.6%. In his first two seasons with Speyer he averaged 14.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 40.1%, FT: 72.1% and 17.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 76.4%. he played at Virginia Wesleyan College (NCAA3): from 2010-2014 and as a senior played 31 games averaging 20.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3% (219/435), 3Pts: 46.0% (91/198), FT: 76.9% (93/121). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his 10th pro season and 8th with Speyer.

Thanks DJ for talking to germanhoops.com. A tough sweep by the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. Despite the sweep how proud are you of your team for reaching the playoffs again and for the first time the second round?

Extremely proud of this team. Bad luck that we ran into arguably the best Pro B team of all time. But I’m glad we were able to make it as far as we did.

Speyer reached the playoffs now for the fourth straight year. Is this a run a good reason for you to come back for a new season to keep this playoff appearance going?

I was going to come back regardless. Speyer is honestly hope now. The playoff streak is a bonus and shows that the organization is steady growing and staying consistent with that growth.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen were the big favorite going in. What was the series game plan and how much of it could the team do?

There was no game plan to be honest. We knew it was going to be tough. We were down a few key guys. We just wanted to go out there and compete. Try to make it tough for their guards, but Heinzmann put a stop to all of that.

Game 2 was pretty much already decided at the break. Did you just try to have some fun in the last half at home for the fans even if your shot wasn´t falling?

That’s all there was left to do. I had a good time watching some of the younger guys get in the action. Hopefully we gain some experience from it and can get back next year as well.

2 categories that were very apparent in both games was the rebounding advantage and 2% from Leverkusen.Are these 2 things that did in Speyer the most?

Yes basically. Heinzmann didn’t miss many shots. And they’re disciplined on offense. They won’t force anything that isn’t there.

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen are on a mission. They have only lost 1 game this season. Are they one of the best or the best team you ever saw in the Pro B in your career?

Easily the best. They had no holes in the team. 2 good players at every position. Bringing a 7 footer off the bench just shows how stacked they are.

There were 8 sweeps early from north teams over south teams. Is the North that much better?

No.

Another great season from the BIS Baskets Speyer. The fourth year in a row reaching the playoffs. Does the club need 1 more lethal scorer more to be able to make a run in the playoffs?

I don´t think it’s about needing a scorer. I just think we need to find a way to stay healthy going into the post season. Being down 3 key players when it matters most will affect any team. Just look at Iserlohn.

What was so special about this years Speyer team that made it so nice to watch besides the team chemistry?

Just a team that bounced back from adversity time and time again. We lost Carlos and guys stepped up. Lost Latrell and guys stepped up. Guys this season had heart. And I think the experienced guys took a lot in their shoulders and came through.

For guys like Djordevic, Rupp, Diala and Hidalgo, it was the second season in Speyer. It would be so vital for them to remain to keep the great team chemistry intact. Do you see a good chance of that happening?

I see a couple of those guys coming back. But not all of them. I would like to run it back with the same team, but we know that’s not show ports work. I’m curious to see what the roster looks like next season. But I can imagine it looks very different.

How vital was defensive specialist Latrell Grosskopf for the success of the team especially on the defensive end this season?

He was really vital. He had to play out of position this season. And he worked his tail off to be a factor at the center position. Especially towards the end of the season.

Was perhaps Benjamin Hoehmann the most improved player on the squad? He averaged 8/3 after playing 3 years in the 2 Regionalliga?

Benny did a good job for us. Would have liked to see him out there the second half of the season. Injuries really hurt his progress.

How key was new Austrian guard Felix Angerbauer in the second half of the season. He gave the team added scoring and playmaking punch at the guard position.

Felix was great for coming in and giving us exactly what we needed. At times this year our offense struggled. But he helped relieve some of that pressure off myself and keep the defenses honest because of his shooting ability. Great pick up for us and hope to see him again next season.

You had another great personal season of 17/5/3/1 and shot 43% from outside. How content ere you with your season at age 33?

Really content with how things went this year individually. Felt like I took some steps in my game. Hoping keep improving next year as well.

Your stats were similar to last season. Does the game really get easier with more experience?

Honestly it does. I think I’m really good at knowing which shots I can take and make consistently. And I focus on those.

You have shot 40% or better form outside in 4 of the last 6 seasons. Would you call your three pointer your biggest weapon on the court now?

I would actually say the midrange is the biggest weapon. I don’t like shooting the 3 as much as the pull up. But being able to shoot it at a high percentage, makes it easier to get to my spots.

Does your good three point shooting of the last years strive you to want to shoot even better down the road? Would added shooting and less conditioning be the route as you keep getting older?

I think the older you get, the more conditioning you need. Just to stay ready. I’m always going to get enough shooting in.

I can imagine your 40 points against Wurzburg was your most memorable game, but what was your second most memorable?

Honestly the 40 was probably the second most memorable. I think the away game against Iserlohn was my favorite game to play this season. Packed arena, season on the line, buzzer beater to send it to OT. That was easily my favorite.

Your ex teammate Kelvin Omojola surprisingly announced his retirement yesterday. What memories do you have of him?

Kelvin is one of the bets teammates that I ever played with and is still one of my closest friends. The league immediately felt his impact when he arrived. I wish that we would have had the chance to play a few more years together. He was and still is a crazy competitor. I´m sure everyone will feel his impact on whatever his next journey brings.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

OKC should win it all. But I’d like to see someone in the east make some noise

Is Nikola Jokic the MVP or will Shai Gillgeous-Alexander get it?

Shai will get it. But I think Jokic is going to struggle with voters fatigue like LeBron did.

Thanks DJ for the chat.

Watching Teodosic And Campazzo Video´s Has Allowed Nico Wenzl(BBC Coburg) To Dish Out Beautiful Passes On A Regular Basis

Nico Wenzl (184-PG-2001) is a 24 year old 184cm point guard that completed his second season with BBC Coburg averaging 9,1ppg, 3,2rpg and 6,6apg. He began his basketball career with DJK Neustadt. He then played in the medi Bayreuth organization from 2017-2021 playing 12 easyCredit BBL games. He also played a season with BBC Coburg in that span and with the TenneT Young Heroes U19 team (NBBL). In the last years he also played with the Dresden Titans, Trier, MBC and Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Nico for talking to germanhoops.com You had BBL experience in Bayreuth and last season with MBC. You r eturned back to the Pro B. Why did you take 2 steps back?

I decided to take a step back so I could get more minutes and responsibility.

Is the easyCredit BBL dream over for you now or is it still a goal?

I wouldn´t go as far as saying that it is over, because my goal is to play as high as possible as long as I have a role.

You returned back to BBC Coburg after being away for 5 years. How did it feel to be back? Is it like a second home for you?

I wouldn´t say that it is a second home, but everything is very familiar. I feel very comfortable here.

How are you a better player now than compared to 2020 when you left?

I´m more mature and balanced. My focus is more on the playmaking and I´m a better leader now. I also have a stronger body.

Tobias Rotegaard said that he enjoys the vibe on the road. Why is BBC Coburg so strong on the road?

We ask ourselves that question a lot. I think that when your on the road, you travel all day and are more focused on the task at hand. I think we are more preoccupied before home games.

What has it been like sharing the back court at times with talented German Adrian Petkovic? What do you appreciate most about his game?

He is very aggressive on offense and a great scorer. When we play together, I have more room. We compliment each other very well.

You were a scoring point guard in the NBBL and never averaged more than 3.8apg as a pro. This season your averaging more than 6,0apg. Did you always have that playmaking in you?

I have always had it in me. I just had a different role in the NBBL. We didn´t have many scorers so I had to do that. This season we have many scorers so I can focus on my playmaking.

Especially in the game in Frankfurt, you dished out some nice assists. At times you looked like Luka Doncic. Do you watch his passing skills?

I watch more Euroleague than NBA. I do watch Doncic highlights, but I watch more videos of Teodosic and Campazzo.

Your averaging 7,8ppg in 31 minutes. Would you like to be averaging more points in the minutes that you get?

I´m focusing more on playmaking because the team needs it more than my scoring. I just do what the team needs. I think my scoring would hurt the team more.

Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 11.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.9%. You also played 7 BBL games. What kind of an experience was playing for the 2025 BBL cup winner?

It was a very fun experience. It was fun especially during the home games. The arena is small, so it gets very loud.

You had talented American guards with Callison, Baldwin and Stove. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there? You only averaged 3,0 minutes in the BBL?

I knew before the season began that my focus would be more on the Pro B. I would practice mainly with the BBL team. I think that I did as good as a job I could of in the practices.

In 2022-2023 you went from Bayreuth to Trier, but averaged only 2,2ppg in 10 minutes time. How disappointing was this season? I´m sure you expected more playing time?

I think that the overall minutes that I averaged per game is deceiving. I played in some games where I started and played 25 minutes while in other games played 2-5 minutes. I feel like that when I did get the trust, I did a good job at that level. It is just difficult when new Americans come, you kind of slip down the rotation.

What was it like playing behind Garai Zeeb? What could you soak up most from him?

Garai is a very good defender and leader. I soaked up those 2 qualities the most from him.

What was it like playing for Jermaine Bucknor? The next season he was NBA champion with Boston. How crazy was that?

That was a huge step for him. I´m really happy for him. He was such a hard worker as a player and coach. It was a huge experience for him.

In 21-22 you played with the Dresden Titans (ProB) averaging 7.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 77.8%. You won the Pro B title. What was so special about this team?

I think that we had the most talented team in the Pro B that season. I think that our biggest strength that season was our chemistry. Most guys had been playing together for years and knew each other well.

Did you have some growing pains coming form the BBL going to the Pro B? How did your game grow under Fabian Strauss?

His playing style fit mine really well. He liked to play free and fast what I like. He liked us taking shots with confidence. That season was a lot of fun. He did a good job finding creative solutions on offense.

You played with medi Bayreuth form 2017-2021. You played your first BBL game at age 17 in May 2018 against Ludwigsburg logging 2 minutes. What memories do you have of him?

I remember that I was very nervous for the whole game. It was a blowout loss against Ludwigsburg in the playoffs. I knew I would play at the end. I was really happy to be able to make my debut in the playoffs.

Do you ever remember battling Gabe York in practice? He reached the NBA with the Magic Pacers a few years later?

I remember when I read that we had signed him, I had no idea who he was. Right away I watched his highlight videos on you tube. He was one of the most talented players that I ever played with. He was so athletic and could hit from all over.

You played your first season with BBC Coburg in 2019-2020 averaging 3,6ppg. How important was it for you having a teammate like Chris Wolf?

Everybody loved him. The fans would chat his name double as loud as everyone else´s. He was our leader and held the team together. He always made the big shots when we needed them most.

In the 2020-2021 season you played 11 games for medi Bayreuth. What was it like playing behind Bastian Doreth? What could you soak up from him?

His work ethic was the most important thing that I could take from him. He was always the first to arrive and last to leave the arena. He showed me what it meant to be a full time professional.

Your best easyCredit BBL game was netting 5 points and dishing out 4 assists against Alba Berlin. What memories do you have playing against guys like Lo, Sikma and Fontecchio

We had guys injured with Doreth and Jones and I knew I would play. I got in in the first half and then from about the 5 minute mark of the third quarter, I played until the end. I think that I used my chance well. I was very nervous, but as soon as I was on the court, it went away.

Who won a 1-1 back in the day you or Christian Feneberg?

If I had to bet, then I would say that I won more games.

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

Tyrese Rice.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

James Robinson, Gabe York, Nate Linhart, Demon Brooks, Andreas Seifert

Please name your personal NBA, Euro, German Mount Rushmore?

Kobe, Bryant Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Milos Teodosic, Nikos Galis, Nikola Jokic, Giannis

Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner, Pascal Roller

Who is your Goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Nico for the chat.

Working More On His Shot Has Helped Nevio Bennefeld Achieve Higher Shooting Percentages This Season

Nevio Bennefeld (212-C-2007) is a 18 year old 212cm center that is playing for Alba Berlin´s NBBL (U-19 team) averaging 8,3ppg, 6,4rpg, 2,0apg and 1,8bpg and also with Pro B team lok Bernau averaging 3,7ppg and 3,0rpg. Last season he averaged 1.8ppg, 2.0rpg for Lok Bernau, 8.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.5%, for the Alba Berlin NBBL team and also played ANGT averaging 9.0ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 51.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 57.1 %. He recently played at the U-17 World Cup averaging 2,8ppg and 2,8rpg. He also played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) averaging 4.3pgp, 5.2rpg, 1.2spg. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks Nevio for talking to eurobasket.com. You finished the 2023-2024 season and it was a heavy load with ANGT, AST, NBBL, Pro B and the World Cup U-17. How was the season for you mentally and physically?

It was a long year. It was my first season with Alba Berlin. I came from Heidelberg and was without my family in Berlin. It was a big change. But Alba Berlin did a great job to help me get adjusted.

Last summer you played at the U-17 World Cup and Germany finished in 11th place. How did you summarize the tournament? I guess you can´t make excuses with some guys not being there?

It was a very strong level. It was a new experience and we needed time to get adjusted. 11th place may not seem great, but we raised our play from game to game. We went from game to game and gave our best.

Germany had some loses to Turkey and France. Did these games show that there was a big difference in talent and class?

The French team was very good. They had very good team chemistry and had played together a lot longer than we did. We had a very short preparation time and were at a disadvantage against other teams.

What could you learn from games like these?

You can only learn playing against top level teams like that. We could see where we stand at. I thought we did a good job not hanging our heads after tough loses. We just kept going and won games after loses. We always stayed positive after loses.

You averaged 2/2 in 13 minutes. What do you believe was the major obstacle for you not getting more minutes?

I would have liked to have played more. It was still a great experience having been a part of it. I gave it all I had.

You also played at the AST. I remember watching a tough loss to Serbia and then an almost win against China. What were you able to take from the AST?

AST was also a valuable learning experience for all. We once again had a short preparation time and just didn´t play as well as a team. We also didn´t hang our heads after the loss to Serbia and then almost beat China.

What is it like being coached from Dirk Bauermann. He is a legend and is lauded from his players for his work with the young players. What kind of a relationship do you have with him and how has he helped you most?

It is enriching to be able to be coached by such a successful coach like him. He has such a vast knowledge of the game. He would always help me after certain situations on the court. I learned a lot from him.

What has it been like being teammates with other big man Clemens Sokolov? How do you guys push each other best in practice?

I like him a lot. He is a nice guy. We spent a lot of time together off the court. On the court we were very competitive. We often had shot competitions after practice.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 212cm center. To what pro player have you heard comparisons from other people about how you play the game?

I play a lot of 5, but can also play the 4. Anthony Davis is a big role model for me. I watch a lot of videos of Kevin Durant. I like his game. We have a similar stature.

You can score and rebound, but what is your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength is my shot and fighting mentality.

You take three´s, but it doesn´t seem so developed yet in your game. Is this an area that you want to continue to raise your amount of shots?

Yes I want to. I´m working a lot on my shot. I definitely want to raise my shooting percentages.

Your also a talented defender, but is it fair to say a bit raw? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I want to be a better 1-1 defender. I also want to be able to switch on the guard and be able to hold my own. I also have to get faster foot work.

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

I´m working a lot on ball handling, coordination and foot work. I´m also more in the weight room.

You played your first season with Alba Berlin. What was it like being part of this great organization? What did you appreciate most from the experience?

Going from Heidelberg to Berlin was a big step. The practices were harder, there were better coaches and facilities. I have enjoyed the amount of coaches that I can work with the most.

Alba Berlin suffered a tough 3 game playoff series loss to the Young Rasta Dragons. Is it fair to say that nothing stood in their way of finally winning it all in their 3rd straight NBBL top 4 final?

Vechta was a very good team. We were a new and young team. They were simply better than we were the whole season. Losing the series hurt.

In the second playoff game you played against huge talent Johan Gruenloh. You held your own with 11 points and 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Did a performance like that give you added self-confidence?

It was great to play against him. I had a good game against him. I took advantage of it. During the game I focus more on me, but after a game, I do watch other players on video and try to take things from their games.

How important was it having a guy like Linus Ruff on your side? What do you appreciate most about his game?

It was cool to play with him. He is a very good player and will play in vechta next season. He helped me a lot at the start of the season. He played ahead of me at the 5. He was a very strong 1-1 player in the post. Our daily battles in practice helped my game.

You averaged 8/4 stats in 23 minutes. You had some good games, but how tough is it having consistency on a team that has so many scoring options?

I need to get more consistent. I had some good and bad games. I think it is good in general when a team doesn´t have to rely only on one player. In some games I took responsibility and in others others.

You also played 4 pro B games with Bernau. What kind of an experience was it getting your first Pro B minutes? What could you get most from this experience?

It was a great experience to play with Lok Bernau. It was a new experience for me as in Heidelberg I had only played Regionalliga. I was able to gain my first pro experience in the pro B

Your last game was a real exciting game where you lost 116-115 to Rostock. What will you always remember from that game?

I learned in that game that a game is never over until the buzzer sounds. We were up by 5 points and then they forced overtime and won. That loss hurt a lot. You always need to play until the end.

What are your goals for this season? Perhaps to get a bigger role in the NBBL and make the next steps in the Pro B?

I want to have a bigger role in the NBBL and earn more minutes in the Pro B.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced on the court?

Johan Gruenloh

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I can´t name just 5. There are too many great ones.

Please name your personal NBA, and German Mount Rushmore?

Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Bill Russell and Nowitzki, Schroeder, Patrick Femerling and Detlef Schrempf.

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Nevio for the chat.

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