lebron-james

Jeffery Taylor(U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca) Will Never Forget His Wake Up Call To The NBA To Having To Guard Lebron James And Kevin Durant

There are many ex NBA players that come overseas to continue balling, some remaining and still living out the dream of the pro life while others make it back to the NBA like guys like PJ Tucker, Bobby Brown or Dante Exum just to name a few. But sometimes there are real upscale guys that will play for a team and really raise the level of a league. German team FC Bayern Munich has demonstrated that the last years bringing in real NBA vets like Derrick Williams, Serge Ibaka and Shabazz Napier just to name a few. But it doesn´t only happen in Germany, but other countries even in lower level leagues like in Romania where U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca reeled in the great Jefferey Taylor. Ok so he only played 3 seasons in the NBA, but he also played 7 seasons with top Euroleague team Real Madrid where he really racked up the chips with 13 titles. To be able to have the quality of a player like that balling in your organization is more than enriching. When you are used to winning like he is, it is only logical that he wants that to continue as he slowly winds down his career at the age of 36. His new Romanian club has won a total of 21 titles, but especially in the last 5 seasons have won 10 titles. “ I definitely joined because of the winning culture and the chance to help the club continue their upward trajectory in European basket I want to a part of winning, winning is the greatest part of sports. I have a great opportunity to keep doing that here in Cluj thankfully”, stressed Jeffery Taylor (201-SF-1989, college: Vanderbilt).

The Swedish/American who lists Mike James, Shane Larkin, and Vasilis Spanoulis as his toughest Euroleague covers was born on May 23, 1989 in Norrkoping, Sweden and played college basketball in New Mexico at Hobbs and then embarked on a 4 year career at Vanderbilt. He played at Vanderbilt from 2008-2012 and reached 3 March Madness and averaged 13/5/2 stats in his 4 year career. Was this some of his best times in his life as a very young man? “ I have great memories, we were able to be a very competitive team during my time at Vanderbilt. As a group we shared a lot memories on and off the court that will always stick with me. Beating Kentucky for the 2012 SEC Championship is definitely my favorite memory. That win was very special, we wanted to leave Vanderbilt with an SEC title and we had wait until the end of our careers to win one. Losing in March Madness was tough especially on the buzzer to Murray State. We were a 4 seed twice and 5 seed, I wish we could have made it to a Sweet Sixteen or beyond but that´s the nature of March Madness”, remembered Jeffery Taylor. He had great teammates and played 4 seasons at Vanderbilt with Festus Ezeli. “Fes is a great guy and a great teammate, there is a ton of memories on and off the court its hard to pick one but we really had a good group of guys at Vanderbilt”, said Jeffery Taylor. He made big strides in his game. He was able to improve his scoring average each season. After a tough second season where he was only 1/11 from outside, he would improve his shooting in his last 2 seasons and became a defensive stopper. His development was helped by head coach Kevin Stallings who was able to groom and prepare him for a pro career. “Coach Stalling was a great, he demanded the discipline and was very detail oriented. He deepened our understanding of basketball on offense and defense”, said Jeffery Taylor who remembers beating teammate Lance Goulbourne in one on one duels in practice.

The Swedish National player who played at the 2013 European Championships in Slovenia lists Anthony Davis and Bradley Beal as his toughest opponents in the NCAA was drafted in 2012 by the Charlotte Bobcats in the second round at number 31 and played 3 seasons for them playing a total of 132 games. He scored in double figures in 27 games and scored 20 points against the 76ers and Bulls. His wake up call to being in the NBA was having to guard Lebron James and Kevin Durant. He played against so many legends that it must have been like being in a candy store every night for him. He battled against guys like Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki just to name a few. Was there one guy that stood out most to him? “Guarding and playing against Kobe will always be memories that I will cherish”, expressed Jeffery Taylor. He also was teammates with so many great guys in his 3 years like Ben Gordon, Brendan Haywood, or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist to just name a few. But he also had the pleasure of getting the ball from Kemba Walker who recently came to Europe, but couldn´t break through. Did the 2 time NCAA champion´s legacy get tarnished? “Kemba Walker is one of favorite teammates, he is super funny and upbeat. And obviously his basketball legacy speaks for itself. I don´t think coming to Europe tarnished his legacy at all. He legacy was cemented far before that. He is one of the great point guards in the era I played in both in college and the pros”, warned Jeffery Taylor who names Kobe Bryant, Lebron James and Kevin Durant as his toughest foes in the NBA.

The defensive stopper who lists Luka Doncic, Sergio Llull, Facu Campazzo, Kemba Walker, and Edy Tavares as his 5 best teammates of all-time then came overseas and played 7 seasons with Real Madrid. Here he played with some of the best players in the world at that time and won and won and won including a Euroleague title in 2018, 4 ACB titles, 3 Cups and 4 Super Cups. This must have been the absolute greatest times in his life. “ Playing for Real Madrid was certainly the best time of my life on a personal level and of my basketball career. I have countless memories that I will cherish until my last breath. That was the epitome of togetherness and pushing toward the same goals. Playing for Real Madrid and defending that logo was one of the greatest pleasures of my life. I will always love Madrid and Real Madrid”, stressed Jeffery Taylor. He won 4 ACB titles beating FC Barcelona 3 times and once Baskonia? Was there one title that stood out more than another? “They were all very meaningful, beating Barca in El Clasico Finals were always great and they were always super intense and difficult to accomplish as all Finals are”, said Jeffery Taylor. He won the Euroleague title in 2018. He helped beat Panathinaikos in the playoffs in a tough 4 game series and then beat the always tough CSKA Moscow and Fenerbahce. What memories do you have of that final? “That 2018 season was tough for us, we dealt with a lot of injuries and we only really had a complete team toward the end of the season. We had to fight from start to finish, there was no smooth sailing. That Final Four was really tough CSKA was stacked very difficult team to face and that Fenerbache team were the defending champions so that Final was incredibly intense. Becaue of our journey as a team and the fight we showed all season that Euroleague title will always be a crowning achievement in my life”, added Jeffery Taylor who thinks that they should have left the classic Coming To America alone.

The U-20 Euro Bronze medalist who lists Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Larry Bird, and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore had many great teammates and an amazing coach in Pablo Laso who was able to help him make the next steps in the development of his game. “Pablo is and always will be a great coach, our preparation and our tactics were always on point. And he always knew when to push his teams and when no to. And he knew how to bring individuals together and have them fight for a common goal”, remembered Jeffery Taylor. He was teammates with Luka Doncic for 3 seasons and saw his development from day 1. Could he have predicted his rise as a player in the NBA already in 2015? “You could see from early on when I got to Madrid in 2015 that Luka was special, his feel for the game, his touch, his vision is something that´s out of this world. And he has only gotten better with time. He is one of the most talented and gifted players of all time. And he is fearless, tough and never ever will shy away from anything”, remembered Jeffery Taylor. Doncic surely must of had 100s of wow moments that he observed in his 7 years in Madrid. “It is hard to describe moments in writing, but everything he does in games, it shows practice with his ball fakes, the passes and shots”, stated Jeffery Taylor. He also was teammates with the then very experienced Andres Nocioni and Trey Thompkins. These were such special players, guys that just aren´t seen anymore in today´s game. “Andres was unbelievable, tough as anybody I have ever played with. Fearless. Super talkative and funny guy to be around. It was a pleasure to share a locker room with him. Trey and I shared our entire journey at Madrid together. We grew up together, we went through lifes ups and downs together. And we got to live and be apart one of the greatest periods in Real Madrid basketball history together. We are and always will be brothers”, warned Jeffery Taylor who remembers the Euroleague finals against Panathinaikos as being amazing to be a part of in 2018 and 2019.

The ex Euroleague player who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT then moved to the BC Wolves Vilnius (Lithuania-LKL) from 2022-2025 playing 98 games and reaching the 2023 ENBL final. This was another step in his career as he continued to showcase his versatility and was a defensive stopper and twice averaged in double figures ins coring in the LKI and once in the Eurocup. “It was a good time, the team was newly constructed and so we had the chance to be a part of something from the beginning so it was a learning experience in a lot of ways. Now he is playing his first season with U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca). He is filled with a lot of great talent and wants to keep winning titles. One guy who has won 8 titles is Patrick Richard who has won 8 titles since arriving in Romania some years ago. “Pat is one of the greatest people and teammates I have had in my career. A great captain and a very accomplished player”, stressed Jeffery Taylor. He doesn´t have as big as a role as the lasty ears, but he knows exactly what he has to do to keep the winning success to continue for his new team and himself. “My role is to be our best defensive player and to bring intensity and toughness on the court. That is what I always try my best to bring on every team I have been on. Offensively I just stay in our system and try to be aggressive when the chance comes”, added Jeffery Taylor. He is now in his 14th pro season and hasn´t really been the basketball globetrotter as U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca) is only his 4th professional organization that he has played for. Some guys will rack up the destinations playing for 10 clubs in 7 seasons and have a passport filled up. But for Taylor, his journey has just been perfect. “I am very grateful for my journey, I am lucky to have avoided the globetrotter life. I have gotten to spend long periods of my career in good places with good people”, said Jeffery Taylor. Things most likely won´t change this season as his winning will surely continue and he will meet good people that will help enrich his life to the fullest.

Florian Flabb Believes That Dirk Nowitzki Built The Foundation And Dennis Schroeder Led The Group That Climbed To The Very Top Of The Mountain

Pic credit: FIBA

Florian Flabb is a German coach who currently is coaching Pro B team Orange Academy and the ratiopharm Ulm NBBL team He began his coaching career as an assistant with the Art Giants and then was a head coach with the NBBL and Pro A team. He also has been an assistant coach with the German U-18 and U-20 teams. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Florian for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

It’s an incredible and historic moment for German basketball. Winning the World Cup in 2023 was already a milestone, but becoming EuroBasket champions in 2025 cements Germany’s place among Europe’s elite. This achievement reflects how far the program has come – from simply aiming to reach the knockout stages to now competing with and defeating traditional powerhouses. The team’s success is built on leadership from Dennis Schröder, the versatility of the Wagner brothers, and a remarkable team chemistry. I hope this title will inspire a new generation of players and spark a true basketball boom in Germany.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

It wasn’t crazy, but definitely bold to predict gold before the tournament. Germany entered as World Champion, yet with strong rivals like Greece with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Turkey with Alperen Sengün, Slovenia with Luka Doncic, and Serbia with Nikola Jokic. If I had to estimate, I’d say about 3 out of 10 German basketball fans would have confidently predicted a gold medal beforehand. Most probably expected a podium finish – silver or bronze – while seeing a second consecutive major title as more of a dream than a realistic expectation.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

Wow, that’s a really tough question — mostly because I was only two years old at the time! My memory from back then is mostly bottles and nap times, so I can’t give you a first-hand comparison. But looking at the numbers and highlights, Germany and Turkey both coming in 8- 0 made it feel like a true clash of titans. Compared to the legendary 1993 win over Russia and the 2023 World Cup final vs. Serbia, this one was probably the highest level basketball Germany has ever played — even if toddler-me had no idea it was happening!

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

Looking back now, that final was nothing short of epic. It was a real dogfight right from the tip-off. Turkey came out incredibly strong, using their size and physicality to set the tone, and at one point they were up by 11 points. Their half-court execution and rebounding really had Germany struggling to find their rhythm early on. What ultimately won Germany the gold medal was the depth and balance of their roster. While Turkey leaned heavily on a few star players, Germany kept coming in waves. No matter who was on the floor, the energy and intensity never dropped. This allowed them to maintain their blistering pace, wearing Turkey down as the game went on. By the fourth quarter, you could see the difference: Turkey’s legs were heavy, while Germany was still flying up and down the court, moving the ball quickly and finding open looks. Their team chemistry and collective belief turned the tide. Over the final minutes, Germany’s depth overwhelmed Turkey, and that relentless team effort sealed one of the most hard-fought victories in German basketball history.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

It all comes down to culture and leadership. Veterans and coaches have to live those values every single day, setting the tone for all players. Dennis Schröder, as team captain, embodies that role perfectly — he’s the emotional leader and sets the standard with his work ethic and competitiveness. When someone like Tristan da Silva, a young NBA player, joins the squad, he immediately sees that environment and understands that no one is bigger than the team. This clarity makes it easy for new players to buy into the system. The group has created such a positive atmosphere that even established NBA stars describe the national team as a “Klassenfahrt” — a school trip — because they genuinely enjoy spending time together. It’s become a place where everyone wants to be in the summer, which is rare at the international level and a huge reason for Germany’s continued success.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a los in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

Back in the 80s and 90s, people said in football, “Am Ende gewinnen immer die Deutschen” — in the end, Germany always wins. Today, that same winning mentality defines German basketball. Even when Turkey led by six points in the fourth quarter of the EuroBasket 2025 final, there was no panic — just trust and belief. Germany’s strength lies in having so many players who can step up, always putting the team’s success over individual performances. Back-to-back titles have built a calm, relentless confidence that Germany will always find a way to win.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

Down the stretch, the key was Germany’s depth and relentless pace. While Turkey relied heavily on a few stars, Germany kept sending out fresh lineups without losing quality or energy. That constant wave of players allowed them to push the tempo, forcing Turkey to defend at full speed while their own legs started to tire. In the final five minutes, this depth really showed. Germany could switch lineups, keep the defensive intensity high, and still find players ready to make big plays — not for personal glory, but to execute perfectly as a group. The bench wasn’t just a factor — it was the decisive advantage. It allowed Germany to stay aggressive, wear Turkey down, and ultimately close the game with the same speed and precision they had started with. That’s why, when it mattered most, Germany looked fresher and more composed, sealing another historic gold medal.

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

Franz Wagner was invaluable to Germany’s EuroBasket 2025 run. He wasn’t just a scorer — he was the engine that kept the team’s fast-paced style running smoothly. His versatility allowed Germany to play position less basketball at times, switching seamlessly between roles on offense and defense. Compared to 2023, Franz is now a more complete player. Two more years in the NBA gave him sharper decision-making and a deeper understanding of when to take over and when to facilitate. Back in 2023, he was already a rising star, but at EuroBasket 2025 he played like a true leader, reading the game perfectly and elevating his teammates. What makes him special is that his growth hasn’t been just about individual stats — it’s about making Germany’s team game stronger. His improved defense, court vision, and maturity turned him into the ultimate connector, the kind of player who makes everyone around him better while staying completely committed to the group’s success.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

Absolutely. Isaac Bonga has been one of the quiet success stories of German basketball over the last few years. Since returning from the NBA, he’s transformed his game — becoming more confident offensively while still being that versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. At EuroBasket 2025, his impact was huge, even if it didn’t always show up in the box score. He brought defensive stability, length, and energy, and his improved shooting and playmaking gave Germany even more lineup flexibility. He’s exactly the type of glue guy every coach loves — someone who makes winning plays without needing the spotlight. Given how his game has evolved over the past three years, it’s hard to imagine NBA teams not taking notice. A tournament like this proves he can thrive at the highest international level, and with his skill set and size, he definitely deserves another shot in the league — this time as a more mature and complete player.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the level and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Dennis Schröder is one of those players who thrives under pressure. You either love his style or you don’t, but you can’t deny his impact. In the EuroBasket 2025 final, Turkey came in with a clear game plan — they double-teamed him constantly, cutting off his driving lanes and trying to frustrate him. Instead of forcing bad shots, Dennis showed his maturity and leadership. He focused on getting his teammates involved, using the extra attention on him to create open looks for others. This unselfish approach kept Germany’s offense balanced and wore Turkey’s defense down. Then, in the second half, when the game was on the line, he flipped that winner’s switch. With Turkey tiring, he started picking his spots, pushing the pace, and attacking when the moment was right. His ability to read the game, stay patient, and then take over when needed is what separates him from most players. Dennis Schröder has shown over the last few years what an incredible leader he is for Germany. The key isn’t just his talent, but how brilliantly the German coaching staffs has used him. They’ve built a system that maximizes his strengths — his speed, playmaking, and competitive fire — while surrounding him with players who perfectly complement his game. What really stands out is how the entire team has bought in. Every player accepts their role and trusts Dennis as their leader. Whether he’s being double-teamed and creating for others, or taking over in crunch time, the group follows his lead without ego or hesitation. That level of acceptance and togetherness is rare at the international level. It’s why Germany has been able to play as such a unified, unstoppable unit, turning individual talent into collective success — and why they’ve built a golden era for German basketball.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

Dirk Nowitzki will always be a legend, not just in Germany but globally. For more than 15 years, he carried German basketball on his shoulders, inspiring a whole generation and showing that a German player could be a true NBA superstar. His impact went far beyond medals — he changed the game and the perception of German basketball forever. Dennis Schröder’s path is very different. He hasn’t had Dirk’s NBA dominance, but on the international stage, his résumé now speaks for itself: World Champion in 2023 and EuroBasket Champion in 2025, both as the unquestioned leader of the team. So while Dirk remains the GOAT, Dennis has earned a place right beside him in the national team’s history. Dirk was the trailblazer, the icon. Dennis is the floor general who turned Germany’s potential into historic team success. You could say Dirk built the foundation — and Dennis led the group that climbed to the very top of the mountain. They’re different types of legends, but they now share the same elite category in German basketball.

One of the big winners was your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

Alan Ibrahimagic’s rise has been one of the great stories of this tournament. Going from assistant coach to leading Germany to a EuroBasket title is an incredible achievement, but it’s not just about winning — it’s about how he handled everything around him. In a brutal, high-pressure atmosphere, where scrutiny and second-guessing are constant, Alan never made it about himself. He kept everything regarding his own role quiet, shielding the team from outside noise. His selflessness and humility allowed the players to stay locked in on what truly mattered — playing their game and chasing gold. Germany already had the talent and depth to be a championship team, but Alan provided the calm and focus to bring it all together. He managed personalities perfectly, emphasized speed and ball movement, and created an environment where every player felt valued. By filling his role perfectly, without ego or drama, he gave the team exactly what it needed: a steady hand and a clear vision. That approach was crucial, especially when Germany fell behind by 11 points in the final against Turkey. His leadership kept the group composed, and ultimately, it helped turn talent into a historic championship run.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

Oh, there were so many unforgettable moments — Bonga’s dunk that brought the bench to its feet, Franz Wagner’s monster block that completely shifted the momentum — but my favorite play was actually a lot less flashy. It came late in the fourth quarter when Germany was up by just two points. Turkey tried to trap Dennis Schröder near half court, but instead of forcing the action, he calmly swung the ball. Within seconds, it touched four different players’ hands, ending with a wide-open three from the corner. It was the perfect example of Germany’s unselfishness, depth, and speed — five guys moving as one unit, trusting each other completely. That play summed up why Germany won gold. It wasn’t about one hero moment, but about a team working in perfect harmony, making the right basketball play at the most important time.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

It’s a very fair comparison. Spain’s golden era from 2006 to 2011, when they won a World Cup and back-to-back EuroBasket titles, was built on incredible talent, depth, and a shared identity. What Germany has achieved now — World Champion in 2023 and EuroBasket Champion in 2025 — is starting to look a lot like the beginning of a similar dynasty. The ingredients are there: a deep roster with multiple NBA players, incredible chemistry, and a winning culture where everyone buys into their role. What makes Germany especially dangerous is that so many of their key players — like Franz Wagner and Tristan da Silva — are still very young, while experienced leaders like Dennis Schröder and Daniel Theis are setting the tone. To truly match Spain’s run, Germany will need to sustain this level through the 2027 World Cup and EuroBasket 2029. But right now, they’ve created an environment where every summer feels like a “Klassenfahrt” — a place where top players want to come back, compete, and win together. This dynasty should go on.

The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

Germany has laid the foundation for something truly special. Winning the 2023 World Cup and the 2025 EuroBasket has put them at the very top of international basketball, but the real challenge now is staying there consistently. The current core — Franz and Moritz Wagner, Tristan da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga— has proven what it takes to win: a group built on selflessness and unity, where no one plays for individual glory. They’ve created a place where players genuinely want to return each summer. The next wave is coming fast, with young talents like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grünloh, and Christian Anderson ready to join the program. But you can’t predict how these big talents will develop over the next few years. It takes more than skill — injuries, mindset, role acceptance, and team chemistry all have to come together to keep this incredible level of success going. If the core group manages to pass down their winning mentality and the young players embrace the culture, Germany has every chance to remain among the world’s elite. It’s not a dynasty yet, but the pieces are in place — now it’s about sustaining the hunger and making sure the next generation carries the torch forward.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

That’s a very tough question. It’s easy to say that today’s young players aren’t as hungry or as challenged as they were “back in the day,” with so many outside influences and distractions, but I think the situation in Germany is a bit different. Over the last decade, Germany has invested heavily in the entire ecosystem around basketball — not just facilities and gyms, but also coaching, youth development programs, and sports science. Young players are surrounded by an environment that teaches them professionalism early on and gives them the tools to grow, both on and off the court. We’re starting to see the results now. Players coming through the system understand what it takes to compete at the highest level, and they have role models like Dennis Schröder, Franz Wagner, and Isaac Bonga showing them the path. Of course, you can never fully predict how young talent will develop, but these investments have created a culture where the hunger to succeed is nurtured, and the focus stays on the team and the game itself, rather than the distractions around it.

Thanks Florian for the chat.

Josef Dulibic(Berlin Dreams) Sees Germany Competing For Medals For The Next 10 Years

pic credit: FIBA

Josef Dulibic is in his third season as head coach of the NBBL team Berlin Dreams. Prior he was active with Alba Berlin winning the 2018 NBBL title with Franz Wagner and in 2023 won the JBBL title with Mathieu Grujicic. He was 13 years active in the organization as coach with Croatian top team Cibona Zagreb. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Josef for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

I´m very proud of the success of German basketball. Being able to say that Germany is now always a contender is crazy. Basketball is a global sport that has so many countries that have great basketball. Germany has shown that it simply has a high quality of players. One now can always say we are contending for a title. Only some years ago, it would have been crazy to say that.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

It would be less than what the experts would have predicted. I think people generally don´t know really how good basketball is in Germany. But with this Euro win, there are of course more people that now understand how good basketball really is in Germany.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

The Euro title in 1993 was a sensation and surprise. I remember it well. I was only 13 years old and was in Munich. In those days you had a certain amount of countries form the Balkan region that played for medals. Those were boring times with less competition. One can compare the last 2 wins easier. I think that this title was more difficult. There was less pressure with the World Cup 2 years ago. This time the expectations were a lot bigger.

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

The difference was simple in that Germany had more depth. The intensity and physicality in the game was very high. It didn´t help Turkey´s chances that a Osman or Larkin had to play so many minutes. Germany had fresher guys from the bench and more players carrying them. Every German player had a good phase during the game. There simply came more as a team from Germany than Turkey.

There has always been talk about the intense mentality, great team character and togetherness of Germany the last years. How does one keep developing it and not losing it over time?

Firstly it really helps when a team has success. This way it is easier to have a cult. It helps that the majority of the guys are close in age. It is never generally good when you have much young and old in a team. The German players were all on the same wave length. All know each other and like each other. That is always a big help.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a loss in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

I really had the feeling when Turkey was up by 6 points that at that point that was it for them. I really didn´t see them having anything more to give. I was writing back and forth with Konstantin Lwowsky during that phase. I felt like we had more reserves and more weapons coming from the bench. I think now you can say that in the end Germany always wins. They are deep and each player has their own identity. The team is simply unpredicatable

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

The biggest change is that he grew into his body. I think he is a stronger player and at the peak of his qualities. His body helps suit the quick game of Germany. The guy is almost 210cm and handles the ball well. Coupled with his athleticism, he can dominate the game. He has a great IQ and made another jump in his game. He is consistent now and has no bad games. He simply plays at a very high level now.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

Bonga plays very well and from what I have heard, there is NBA interest there. Bonga went to the NBA very young and his game has grown since he came back the last 3 years. He has a decent shot now. He is more than a 3 and D player now, but more of a specialist. The question is always is the NBA really a good thing? He showed the last few years that he could play well at the Euroleague level. In the NBA teams often play with a 8-9 rotation. There simply isn´t enough room for all players. Players want to play and not sit on the bench.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroder (185-PG-1993), but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

Turkey was well prepared for him. He did a great job in the second half. He got more space and was able to produce with scoring. The problem is that nobody really knows him except his teammates. His teammates in the German national team have always stuck behind him. There is a blind understanding between them. He likes leading the team. The problem in the NBA was that he always played with more known players than him. He has so many more duties in the national team and he likes that.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

The competition is highest at the guard position in the NBA. It is very tough to make it. Juan Carlos Navarro was a top player in Europe and came back after 2 years in the NBA. Anything besides being a role player is difficult. Dennis just isn´t at the level of the top players. He is 1 in many.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

I wouldn´t compare 2 great players. I feel like both had different situations. Back when Dirk was playing, he had to carry the team more than a Schroeder. Dirk had to do it all and made his teammates better. The teams with Dirk also weren´t as good as this one. Dennis is full of great players. He is a clutch player.

One of the big winners is your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

I wasn´t there to see all the dynamics. Alex Mumbru had a plan and that was followed by the team. Alan always said that he didn´t take the role of Mumbru. Alan was on the side lines and had to make the right decisions. Sometimes things can go wrong when the head coach isn´t there. But Alan did everything right. He was calm and cool and never panicked. He did a great job. He let the team play and I never once saw him be nervous. He did his job perfect.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

I loved that difficult lay in by Dennis Schroder in crunch time that he laid in high off the glass. There was so good help and he still made it was incredible. That was such a tough shot to make.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

Yes you could make that comparison. If one followed the youth development in Germany the last years, one could have had a feeling that success would come for the men´s national team, but never to this large extent. One could have thought that success may go away in Spain after the Gasol brothers retired. Now Germany have to continue to be hungry and take advantage of the current success. I feel like Germany could be playing for a medal in the next 10 years.

This dynasty should go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Matthieu Grujicic, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

These are all great players. The question now is can the young players make the next step from youth to men´s basketball? You never know what direction a player will go in in their development. Some guys don´t make it. One good example is Luc Von Slooten. The hype was big, but he only became a solid BBL player. Tristan Da Silva is also a good example. I wouldn´t have expected him to make such big steps after I saw him in the NBBL, but he did. You never really know who will make it. The coaches of the players always see the best case scenario. I think it is important that these young talented players now take that mentality from the men´s team. There has been criticism of the Nil, but I see it as positive for the players. In the BBL it is tough to get minutes, but these guys will get good minutes in the NCAA.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

I really don´t see it so different. Things have changed in the last 20 years. You will have positives and negatives then and now. Now you can take your phone and see Kyrie dribble within 5 seconds. 20 years ago that wouldn´t have been possible. Then you would have had to inspire yourself in other means. Go out and practice shots, but it isn´t different now. The training is great with Alba Berlin. Guys aren´t doing less now. Guys know that everywhere in the world are talented kids training to get better. Players know today just like 20 years ago the more you work hard, the better chance you will have to make it.

Thanks Josef for the chat.

Chris Rojik Was A Top Second Bundesliga Player 20 Years Ago In Germany And Today Is Still On The Court Coaching His Kids In Boston

It is always interesting for me to see how many connections I have with a player. With some guys, I just interview them and that’s it. There is no connection. With other guys there may be just 1 connection for example that we come from the same state or something. With other players, the connection may be more intense. One player from the way past that I had a connection with was Chris Rojik. The most obvious connection is that were from Boston and both adore the Celtics. Another connection we have is that he played his last pro season in the Frankfurt Skyliners organization one I have been covering for more than 20 years. Another connection was that I remember observing him play in a pre season tournament almost 20 years ago in Rhondorf in 2006. 4 teams competed then with Rhondorf with Rojik, the Frankfurt Skyliners that had a great roster that season with guys like Travon Bryant, Eric Chadfield and George Reese, but no chemistry that totally underachieved, the Telekom Baskets Bonn that had amazing character guys like Jason Conley and John Bowler and the Rhein Stars Cologne that had top player Demond Mallet that had already won a BBL title with Bamberg in 2005 and 2 years later would win the ULEB Cup with Ricky Rubio and the beast Marcin Gortat who had began with basketball very late and only 1 year later would commence a 13 year NBA career something that not many could have predicted in 2006 except for maybe Stephan Baeck. “I remember Marcin was young, tall, skinny and athletic. He obviously became a great player but at the time I didn’t think he was going to play in the NBA”, stated Chris Rojik. In 2006 Rojik was a top second Bundesliga player coming off a 17/9 season and would have a few more potent years ahead of him. He would go on to play 13 pro seasons in Germany.

Christopher Rojik (200-F-1974, college: Holy Cross) who lists Magic, MJ, Bird, Duncan, and Shaq on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore was born on September 5, 1974 in Boston, Massachusetts. He was 9 years old when the Boston Celtics won their second NBA title with Bird and 11 years old when they won in 1986. He was growing up at a time when Boston Sports was flourishing as the Redsox reached the World Series and Patriots the Super Bowl as well in 1986. It was only logical that he was a diehard Boston Celtics fan. “Growing up in the 80s and 90s I got to see the greatest basketball in the NBA and college. Boston was and is the sports capital of the world so I was lucky. I have great memories watching the games growing up. The rivalries were great back then”, stressed Chris Rojik. The Celtics had so many great players, but it was no surprise who his favorite players wee back in the mid 80´s when the Celtics ruled the NBA. “It had to be the big three, Bird, McHale and Parish. Have to include Dennis Johnson and Ainge as well”, said Chris Rojik. He played college ball at Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1993-1997. “I had a great experience at Holy Cross and was lucky to be a part of that program. I played with a lot of great players and fortunate to be coached by some great coaches. Besides Patriot League and Ivy League schools, we played Boston College, UMass, Cal, Santa Clara, Butler, Northwestern. Great times traveling the country and playing teams from all over”, added Chris Rojik. He made big strides in his game in his last 2 seasons averaging 13,0ppg and 6,0 rpg as an undersized big at 200cm. “I developed a three-point shot and became more of a perimeter player my last two years”, commented Chris Rojik. He was fortunate to be coached by William Raynor and George Blaney who were 2 individuals that groomed and prepared him to have an enriching career overseas. “They were great coaches and I was lucky to play for them in college. So many great memories of practices and games and being with the team. A great learning experience that I will always remember”, expressed Chris Rojik.

Holy Cross teammates reunited

The big man who remembers having his battles with John Kerr at Holy Cross on the court, but doesn´t remember the outcomes came overseas in 1998 and played most of his pro career with second Bundesliga team Dragons Rhondorf for 9 seasons. His first tour of duty occurred from 1998-2000. Every American overseas have their classical wake up call to being overseas and it wasn´t any different with Rojik. “The wakeup call was seeing players sent back home to the states if they had a bad game”, remembered Chris Rojik. I actually had another connection with him in that he was teammates with current Frankfurt Skyliners CEO Gunnar Wobke, a guy I have known for more than 2 decades and seen and talked with at games. He had a very special connection with Gunnar Wobke that not many players would ever have. “Gunnar was awesome. He gave me my first job in Rhoendorf and my last one in Frankfurt”, smiled Chris Rojik. He then played in Iserlohn from 2000-2003 helping move them up to the Second Bundesliga averaging 25,0ppg in the Regionalliga and in the Second Bundesliga averaged 26/10 in his last season there. “I had great times in Iserlohn. We had some good teams playing in the second Bundesliga. I remember Quackenbruck going undefeated and destroying everybody with Chris Fleming as coach”, said Chris Rojik. He was fortunate to have been teammates with the great Matthias Grothe who unfortunately passed away in 2017. He is a guy that has forever remained in his heart. “Matthias was a good friend of mine and I still stay in contact with his family. He was a great player, teammate, coach, and friend. Watch out, his son might play in the NBA someday”, warned Chris Rojik.

Battling against his ex teammate Matthias Grothe

The American then returned back to Rhondorf for the down stretch of his career and also his best years as a player. “Rhoendorf was a great place to live and play basketball. We won a lot of games and had a lot of success”, said Chris Rojik. In his first 2 seasons he averaged 20/7 and in his next 2 seasons 17/7. In his second to last season probably had his best personal season averaging 19.1ppg, Reb-5 (9.1rpg), 2.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 80.5%. He topped off his stay in Rhondorf helping them win the Pro B title in 2010 averaging 16.3ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.3apg, FGP-3 (67.7%), 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 80.2%. “I had some great teammates in the Pro A and B. Every season we were competitive and one of the top teams in the league. The 2010 season was fun”, smiled Chris Rojik. That 2009-2020 team was very special. They had talented guys like Deandre Spraggins and Nick Larsen just to name a few. “Larsen was a great captain and point guard. Spraggins had the perfect season that year with his highlight dunks and threes. We had some great road wins. The team had a good mix of veterans and young guys”, remembered Chris Rojik. He was also fortunate to the see the future of German basketball develop and grow and was teammates with a very young Jonas Bottermann-Wolfarth that would go on to have a great career in Germany. “What memories did he have of young German Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann. It took him a few years to make his breakthrough but he did. Was he still a bit raw when you were teammates? “WoBo was awesome just dunking on everybody left and right. It’s great to see all the success he’s had over the last decade”, said Chris Rojik. He then finished his pro career overseas with the Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt Second Team (Germany-ProB) averaging 18.0ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 87.4%. “I had a great year at Frankfurt playing and coaching. Thankful for all the coaches there. It was fun to coach the young guys and see their success as they got older”, stressed Chris Rojik. Did he notice in the 2010-2011 season that something special was developing in Frankfurt with their youth program? Guys like Voigtmann and Barthel would join soon after and become Euroleague players? “Coach Perwas and Herbert are great coaches so all the success they had completely makes sense! Their focus on young German talent is also very significant”, added Chris Rojik. So where is Chris Rojik in 2025? Of course back in his home state. “I’ve been living in the Boston area since 2011 with my wife and three kids and everything is going great. I’ve coached all of my kids through youth basketball and AAU”, said Chris Rojik. Is there anything that he specifically misses about the game. “There’s nothing like getting on a court and playing basketball. I still get to run up and down once in a while. You can usually find me on the sidelines now coaching my kids. That keeps me involved in the game”, added Chris Rojik. One thing is for sure bigs that played in Germany during the 2000´s will never forget the game of Chris Rojik who was an undersized big, but that already had the modern day big man game 20 years ago.

Ilya Fohl(Alba Berlin) Was The Steph Curry Of Berlin In The JBBL Final As He Was Letting It Rain Three´s From All Over

Ilja Fohl is a 15 year old 185cm small forward that averaged 12/1/1/1 stats in the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to eurobasket after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats I on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

This so crazy for me. I came from Zehlendorf and have never had that kind of success before like this with Alba Berlin. It is so full filling for me to have won this title. I thank the coaches and my teammates for the great effort.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

It was big. So many people said that we wouldn´t win again, because we had bad opponents. That pushed us so much more to work harder and winning feels so good.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It is a great feeling knowing that NBA superstars gave us support. That shows that Alba Berlin is a family and that they have stayed on the ground.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

When he is hot and hitting shots, it´s deadly for then opponent. We are similar in a way as players. We both have shown that when you work hard, results will show.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

We is a good three point shooter and we wanted to take that away from him. We did a pretty good job doing that. We wanted him to go more into the zone and tire him out. We made him work hard for every shot.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is our only real big and is our X-factor. His energy and strength is so strong. Our coach always told us to look for him. He saved us a lot of times in then final.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

They are a great strong team. If Klaric and Oldiges had scored more, it could have been a tougher game for us. They live off runs and always came back. I think that our depth was key for the win.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That dunk was so big. There hadn´t been many dunks in the game and his gave us the momentum at that point. The arena went crazy.

Ihla Foehl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

I was today. There are games where I don’t find my shots. Luca Kappel and I are the splash brothers of Berlin.

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think key was staying calm and playing our game. We hit big shots and made them when we needed to. We didn´t give them a chance to come back.

You are an amazing shooter. Who is your big basketball role model?

My role model is Damian Lillard. He may not be the best shooter, but I chose him because not everyone has him as a role model.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I will see if I go to school or not. I won´t go into the club or drink. I will celebrate with my family.

Thanks Ilya for the chat.

Dorian Grosber(Alba Berlin) Will Never Forget Playing Against Mike James And Being So Freaking Nervous Against Milan

Dorian Grosber (197-PG-2006) is an 18 year old 197cm forward from Luxemburg playing in the Alba Berlin organization. He primarily plays for the farm team Lok Bernau averaging 9/4/2 and and for the NBBL (U-19) team averaging 11/6/3/2. He also has played 2 Euroleague games. Last season he played 10 games for Lok Bernau averaging 2,8ppg, 2,0rpg and 1,7apg and with the NBBL team averaged 9/6/3. In the 2022-2023 season he helped Alba Berlin win the NBBL title averaging 5/3/1. He began his basketball career with BBC Sparta Bertrange U17 team (EYBL) and also played with the CFBB Luxembourg U16 team (EYBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2025 NBBL tournament in Berlin.

You are from Luxemburg and began your career at BBC Sparta Bertrange U17 team. What memories do you have from these years? Did you have a mentor growing up in Luxemburg?

I remember winning the u18 Cup Final. That was a very nice memory. I had a lot of people helping me in Luxembourg, but the coach who helped me the most was Christophe Flammang, who was also my school teacher in 6th grade.

You played 2 World Cup qualifying games for Luexmburg. What kind of an experience was that? What is the state of Luxemburg basketball? Are there some other interesting young players coming up besides yourself?

It was an unforgivable experience to represent my country. Luxembourg basketball is evolving a lot in the past years. We have good talents with Namik Muratovic from Bayern Munich, Ehis Etute (Oregon) and Isa Hamalainen (Colorado)

You came to Alba Berlin in 2022. How special was the NBBL team in 2022-2023. It has some really great players like Rikus Schulte, Ellias Rapique and Linus Ruff just to name a few.

We had a very special team with incredible talents on every position. The team chemistry was amazing. I still have contact with a lot of them. I learned a lot from Elias, Nils and even Jack Kayil, who’s my age.

Last season the Young Rasta Dragons beat Alba Berlin in 3 games in the semi-finals. How tough was that series and what will you always learn from it?

It was tough, because I came back from an injury that series and the Top4 was in Berlin. I learned that losing only makes you stronger.

You continue to make steps in the Alba Berlin organization. Has there been a coach in the last years that has impacted you most with his basketball teaching?

My NBBL coach Vladimir Bogojevic and the individual coach Emanuele Berti have for sure had the most impact on me. I learned and am still learning many things from them.

You have had your break out season in the Pro B with Lok Bernau averaging 11/6/3 stats. How has your game grown in the Pro B this season?

Being used to playing against grown men since last season, has helped my game to grow this year. The confidence in my shot is slowly coming and being able to play through contact helps.

You also train with easyCredit BBL team Alba Berlin. How challenging has that been. What have you learned in the short time from Pedro Calles? He really has turned the season around.

It was challenging at first because of the pace they play at. You need to take quicker decisions and react faster. I learned from him that as a young player you have to work hard and always give 100%.

Is there a player that has had a real big impact on you? Maybe a Matt Thomas or a Martin Hermannsson?

No, not really. Elias Rapieque is helping me a lot, with giving tips and answering questions.. But I really like to observe how professional and how dedicated Matt Thomas is. He’s a really good role model for young players.

You have played a few Euroleague games. How cool has that been? Did you have jitters going into the Milan game?

That was so cool. Seeing the best players in Europe, like Mike James, was unreal. I was so freaking nervous against Milan, and winning the game too, was incredible.

How big is your goal to have a flourishing basketball career? You got a 1 on your German school test despite speaking French and English. What interests do you have outside of basketball if you had to have another job outside of basketball?

Basketball is my main goal. I like architecture, so something with buildings or designing houses.

Who is the toughest player that you have battled in your life on the court that reached the NBA?

I practiced with Franz and Mo Wagner, so probably them. I played against some top prospects in this year’s NBA Draft like Egor Demin, Nolan Traoré and Kasparas Jakucionis.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jack Kayil,Rikus Schulte, Elias Rapieque, Nils Machowski, David Torresani

Please list your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore of your 4 best players in each category?

I just want to say it’s my favourite players

Nba: Lebron James, Anthony Edwards, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady

Euroleague Kevin Punter, Wade Baldwin, Mike James, Milos Teodosic

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Who will reach the NBA final and then win it all?

Cavs and Wolves and the Cavs winning it all.

Thanks Dorian for the chat.

Oliver Kullamae Comes From A Basketball Family And Has Learned About Mentality And Work Ethic The Most From Dad Geert And Brother Kristian

Pic credit: Fiba

Oliver Kullamaee (186-G-2007) is a 17 year old 186cm guard from Estonia that is playing for the ratiopharm Ulm organization that this season played for various team like BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 10/4/4, for Orange Academy (NBBL) averaging 6/2/1 and for the NBBL team averaged 5/2/3 helping them reach the NBBL top 4. Last season he played with BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 7.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.3%, played also at OrangeAcademy U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 11.8ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-2 (6.7apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 50.0%. He came to Ulm in 2022 coming from Audentese SK. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career..

Thanks Oliver for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleagueplayer who would best fit the description?

If I’d have to compare myself to somebody I would choose a player like Huertas or Rubio. Bit of a smaller guard but crafty.

You’re a player that leads a team and is the pure playmaker. What other strengths does your game have?

I think other than that I’m also a good shot creator. I haven’t really had to show it here in Ulm but for example in the national team it’s different.

How much of a challenge is it being more of a scorer on teams like Orange Academy (Pro B) and the NBBL team when you have many scoring options.

This year the team didn’t rely on my scoring. My job was to set up the offense and to take care of the ball. That doesn’t mean that I wasn’t aggressive or didn’t look to score at all. It just wasn’t my main responsibility. We had guys like Fredi, Jordan and Alec who could do that.

Are you more focused now of becoming a better playmaker and all around player as opposed to becoming a better scorer?

Right now I’m more focused on becoming a better scorer. I can still get quite passive at times, look for others too much at times. Modern point guards can do everything.

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

I’d say right now I’m an all right defender, but there’s a lot of room for improvement. As a smaller guard you have to provide something on the defensive side as well. You cannot be a liability. Obviously the goal is to become an elite defender.

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

Definitely my shooting. My percentages weren’t great this year but I wouldn’t say that I’m a bad shooter at all. Other thing is just getting stronger and bigger.

You come from a great basketball family. Your dad Geert had a long career and I saw your dad play with Bamberg and your brother Kristian continues to climb the basketball ladder. How vital has both of these guys been in your basketball development? What is the most important thing you could learn from both?

It has benefited me a lot coming from a basketball family. Being around basketball since a very young age and starting to learn the game already that young. After rough games I can always ask for advice from both of them. The most important thing I’ve learned from both are mentality and work ethic.

You played at the recent Addidas Next Generation Euroleagueaveraging 8/4/5 stats. What kind of an experience was that and what do you enjoy most from being able to play with your Ulm teammates one more time?

Playing at such a high level tournament is always a good experience. We had a great group and I think we did well. Although that game against Zalgiris is still a bit bitter. It’s always more fun when you have teammates who you really enjoy playing with.

You aren´t much older than big talent Teo Millicic but a few years make a difference at the youth level. What kind of a relationship do you have with him. Is being a mentor for you even possible at so young an age?

Me and Teo have a great relationship. Out of all my teammates I enjoy training with Teo the most. His level of competitiveness is always at the highest, which encourages me to also train harder. I wouldn’t consider myself a mentor. If either of us has a question we always help each other

Last season you played your first real full season in Ulm playing Regionalliga, NBBL and Pro B. How important has it been playing Regionalliga where you play against men. How has your game profited most from this competition?

In Regionalliga I had more freedom than in Pro B or NBBL. The main focus wasn’t that much on winning, rather developing and having the chance to play against men. This was one of the teams where we relied a bit more on my scoring. Overall it was great for my development.

Last summer you played at the U-18 Euro averaging 10/3/9/2 stats. In 7 games you averaged 10 assists or more. Is it fair to say that this was your break through in Europe? You almost averaged 10 assists in the tournament and played against 7 different countries staying consistent?

Playing against competition a year older I would say I did a fine job. Of course there were a few too many turnovers but overall I did okay. This year I play against guys my age and I look to have an even better summer. In my opinion we have a great chance of winning the B division.

What is your big goal as a basketball player? Possibly the Euroleague?

My big goal is to reach the highest level I possibly can. My dream has always been to play for Barcelona

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Jordan Mueller?

I’d say that Jordan wins 65% of the time.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced on the court that reached the NBA?

The toughest player I ever faced on the court, who hasn’t reached the NBA just yet but definitely will in the summer, was Egor Demin.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jordan Müller

Pacome Dadiet

Noa Essengue

Kaur Kennerth Tomann

Endurance Ayamenkhue

Please name your personal NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

NBA:

Steph Curry

Kobe Bryant

Lebron James

Michael Jordan

Euroleague:

Luka Doncic

Vassilis Spanoulis

Milos Teodosic

Kevin Punter

Who is your GOAT?

My GOAT is Kobe Bryant.

Thanks Oliver for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola Didn´t Have The Season He Planned For With The Dragons Rhondorf But I´m Sure That He Will Come Back Stronger

Picc redit: Martin Jung

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 28year old 183cm point guard that completed his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf avergaing 9/3/3. Last season he helped them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the end of the 2024-2025 season.

Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not?

We definitely had the talent Miles to go further, but it’s more than talent when it comes to winning basketball games. I was taught that early in my basketball career, the little details matter the most. The details is what separates teams and players.

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?

Yeah the season was a rollercoaster Miles. It’s super unfortunate, especially after coming off a championship season. There’s so many reasons as to why we didn’t win more games. We had an unexpected coaching change mid season, we played the entire season with only 1 big man, we had 3-4 main rotation players not be in practice with us all week then come to the games on the weekend. It’s EXTREMELY tough to build a camaraderie or chemistry. But regardless, you have to make the most out of every situation.

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?

Our defense was a problem all year Miles. It was up and down and we had no consistency. You could say the same for our offense too, we had some games we would play well, shoot the ball well and have great ball movement. Other games would be the complete opposite.

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

The development of the young guys was pretty good this year. We had a younger team so we had a lot of young guys getting valuable playing experience. The player that I feel developed the most would probably be Josh Behrendt. He has all the intangibles of becoming a great player. Great work ethic, high motor, and competitive.

Who was the most improved player on the team?

I would say Alex Lagermann, but not from a skill perspective because he was always extremely skilled. But he was able to showcase his talent more at the end of the season and show why he should have been playing more minutes/be a starter all season. He’s a guy that, in my opinion, needed to be playing 27+ minutes a game.

Who was the MVP of the season?

For our team, Tim Smith would be our MVP. He’s also super skilled who plays hard on both ends of the floor. The sky is the limit for Tim. He can & should be playing high level basketball VERY soon.

You averaged 10/3/3 stats in 3 less minutes. How do you rate your personal season?

It was okay Miles, definitely wasn’t the season I planned on having but it’s alright. There’s a lot I can take from this year and learn from!

You missed games with injuries. How much of an affect did injuries play in your performance and not having the same type of players as last year?

It was extremely tough Miles, I’ve never missed a game in my career before this season and for me to miss multiple games this year, including the playoffs, was tough. It affected my performance and rhythm but that’s no excuse. When you’re out on the court, you need to perform. It’s that’s simple. And of course, not having a team like last year affects it as well. When you’re playing with experienced players, it makes the game a lot easier. Often times guys will be on the same page without having to say any words! When you’re with a younger group, it’s different points of emphasis and teaching that needs to be done. And but you need to adapt and make the most of it.

What was your personal favorite game of the season?

I would say @ Bayern Munich. I played well and won player of the week, but the reason why it’s my favorite is because that game was a true TOTAL team game. We scored over 100 points, everyone on the team scored that game, we won by 30, KJ & Kai had to coach for Coach Stephan. It was just an extremely fun game/trip in all aspects.

On what areas of your game will you work on most this summer?

My shooting. Becoming a more efficient shooter will just open up the game for me even more.

Who was the toughest player that you faced this season on the court from Pro B teams?

I’ll go with Jaylen Alston from Urspring! He plays very similar to Zion Williamson and he’s an extremely tough matchup. Walking mismatch and really a great player.

What is the next step for you? Will you return to the Dragons Rhondorf or could you see a change?

I’m not sure yet Miles! I could and most likely will see a change but I have no idea at the moment.

6 South teams were swept by north teams. How crazy is that? Is the north really that much better?

That is really crazy Miles. You could say the north is better, but the playoffs come down to play style and matchups.

Who will reach the NBA final and win it all?

“OKC, KFC, UFC… Lakers in 5.” Man Miles! I was convinced the Lakers were going to get to the Finals and they got bounced in 5! Haha, so I believe either OKC or Minnesota will get to the finals in the West. As for the East, Boston or Cleveland. I’ll go Minnesota vs. Cleveland! And Minnesota being the dark horse winner this year.

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

SGA will get it, for sure. Jokic is the best player in the NBA but SGA will win MVP for this season.

Thanks Kelvin for the chat.

Marcus Graves(VET-CONCEPT Gladiators Trier) Tries To Play Basketball The Right Way And Make The Right Play Every Single Time

Marcus Graves (185-G-1996, college: Sacramento St.) is a 28 year old 185cm point guard that was born in San Diego that is playing his 6th professional season and second overseas with the VET-CONCEPT Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career with Independence High School and also played at Westview High School. He then played 3 seasons with Sacramento State University and as a senior averaged 17.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 5.4apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 79.2%. He played his first 4 pro seasons in the G-League with the Stockton Kings, Salt Lakke City Stars, Wisconsin Herd and G-League Ignite. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Marcus for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would call it a mix of a lot of people. Growing up I loved watching guys like Steve Nash, Jason Kidd, Russell Westbrook.

You averaged 5apg in the NCAA and once 7,0apg in the G-League. Are you a pass first point guard?

100%, I just try and play basketball the right way, make the right play every single time.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet very well. What other strengths does your game incorporate?

Getting other guys involved and managing the game, that’s been something I’ve tried to focus a lot on.

You have always been kind of a streaky three point shooter. What do you have to do to reach the magical 40% plateau?

Just keep being confident and keep putting in the work.

How have you seen the development of your defense in the last years? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I’ve been trying to improve every day, it’s all just a mentality. I have the defensive tools and it’s been something I’ve been trying to focus on.

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

Being a more consistent shooter, I think that will open up a whole new world for me.

You played 4 years in the G-League for 4 teams. What positives did you get from these years? What was the biggest challenge?

Just learning how to be a professional and stay true to myself. The G is very up and down and as an individual you have to hold yourself accountable.

You had a really good stint with Wisconsin. Do you feel like you could have had a NBA call up with more time?

Potentially, I only played half a season there and felt like it was a really great spot for me.

You played your rookie season with the Stockton Kings (NBA G League) averaging 7.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 71.7%. What do you remember being your wake upcall to being a pro player?

Just adjusting to a role. Most guys come from college and were the best player on their team so adjusting to fitting into a role was challenging for me at first.

How big of a role model was a guy like Gabe Vincent. He began in the G-League and had to pay his dues and later reached the NBA in your rookie season and never left?

Gabe and I have a great relationship, we share the same mentor/trainer and agent so we usually are together all summer. The bond and brotherhood we’ve created runs deeper than basketball. Seeing where he is today is no surprise because I’ve seen the work he’s put in.

In your second season you played with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 8.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.8apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 75.0%. What memories do you have of head coach Nathan Peavy and assistant Bryan Bailey? Both played in Germany in the BBL. Will one get a NBA head coaching job one day?

Both were great guys, it was a short season because it was the bubble but I had a great experience with both of them.

In the 2020-2021 season you split time with the Stockton Kings (NBA G League) averaging 8.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 73.0%, in Feb.’22 signed at Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League) averaging 11.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 7.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 34.4%. What was it like splitting the season with 2 teams. How difficult is it in the G-League to find a groove when you have to move around? You showed you could with the Herd?

It was tough getting traded mid season but for me when I switched teams I just went in with the mindset to be myself, and Wisconsin was a great fit for me.

What was it like playing with Frank Mason? Was it a challenge battling him in practices?

Frank was a good dude, great player. Obviously has had great accomplishments in his career and playing against him and learning things from him is something i don’t forget for sure.

You Played your last season in the G-League with the G League Ignite (NBA G League) averaging 6.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 73.5%. Did you lose faith in the NBA process?

I didn’t lose faith, Ignite came to me and I thought it would be a unique experience in my basketball life. I loved that year, on and off the court it’s something i wouldn’t trade for anything.

What was it like being teammates with ultra veteran Pooh Jeter? What could you soak up most from his game?

Pooh is definitely one of my top teammates ever. Great basketball career and player but the thing I learned most from Pooh was just being present, his energy and love for basketball and life every day is something you don’t see a lot.

You played 3 years at Sacramento State University (NCAA) and made a big jump as a senior averaging 17.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 5.4apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 79.2%. How did your game grow in your senior year?

I had back surgery the year before so sitting out a whole year I had a lot of time to develop my game and my body and the work all showed my senior year.

You were teammates with Nick Hornsby and was reunited last season playing against him in the Pro A. Is he one the most versatile players that you ever played with?

Nick is like a baby Draymond Green, he just plays basketball the right way and does a little bit of everything.

You had many huge games in the NCAA. What was your biggest personal game in the NCAA?

Probably having the first triple double in Sacramento State history

How did head coach Brian Katz groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Creating a routine and embracing the underdog role. Understanding I’ll never be given anything has always stuck with me

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Cody Demps?

We are probably even

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

Victor Wembanyama

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

That’s tough, so many great ones to just narrow down to 5, definitely a lot on this Trier team now.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Kobe, MJ and Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Thanks Marcus for the chat.

Starting Against Lebron James Blocking Steph Curry And Getting A Steal On Jayson Tatum Are NBA Moments Jacob Gilyard Will Never Forget

Jacob Gilyard (175-PG-1998, college: Richmond) is a 25 year old 175cm point guard from Kansas City Missouri playing his third professional season and first overseas with easy Credit BBL team Niners Chemnitz. He began the season with the Cleveland Charge (NBA G League) averaging 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 6.5apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 40.9%, 3FGP: 34.7%, FT: 72.2%. Last season he split time with the Memphis Grizzlies and Brooklyn Nets and with G-League teams Memphis Hustle and the Long Island Nets. He played his rookie season with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League averaging 8.8ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-1 (8.8apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 90.2%. He began his basketball career at Barstow High School and then played at the University Of Richmond (NCAA) from 2017-2022 playing a total of 154 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career

Thanks Jacob for talking to germanhoops.com. You began the season with the Cleveland Charge (NBA G League) averaging 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 6.5apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 40.9%, 3FGP: 34.7%, FT: 72.2%. Why did you go? Did you lose a little faith in the NBA process?

I just felt it was time. I don’t think Cleveland was really the best situation for me. But I just wanted to get to a situation and find joy and fun playing again and I think Chemnitz has allowed me to do so.

How big of a goal is it getting back to the NBA via Europe? Have you set a plan or just take it day by day?

I just take it day by day. I know how the NBA works and there’s new guys coming in every year and the younger guys usually get the benefit of the doubt. So we’ll see. I’ve been watching more BBL and Euroleague games than NBA or College. and truthfully, since being over here I haven’t really put too much thought into it. Just being where my feet are.

You began your professional career with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) averaging 8.8ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-1 (8.8apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 90.2%. You had 22 games with 10 assists or more in a game. You won the G-League assist title. How special is a title like that?

I had a really good team my rookie year with the Hustle. I thought I showed what NBA teams would want to see and we were one of the best teams in the G that year. So it was a great start and the title was great to have. Just means I was fortunate enough to play with some good players!

You were rewarded with playing a NBA game against the Thunder having a 3/4/7/2 game in 41 minutes. How did you feel when you checked in and what do you remember from that game? The team dressed only 6 players.

Of course I remember. I was nervous and just trying to help the team in any way. I definitely didn’t expect to play 41 minutes but it was certainly something I’ll never forget.

In your second pro season you had a very good NBA Summer League with the Grizzlies and were rewarded playing 37 games averaging 4.7ppg, 1.2rpg, 3.5apg,and played 6 G-League games averaging 13.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 8.8apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 35.4%. You had 2 good games against Golden State in losing causes and other solid games. What was your fondest moment on the court?

I’m pretty sure we won one of those games but it was a blessing getting to play in so many games. Fondest moment i’s hard to pick honestly. I started at the Staples center against Lebron James. Got a block on Stephen Curry. Got a steal on Jayson Tatum. I would probably have to say getting my first start was the coolest moment and being able to share that with my Dad in the stands was special. Early in the season when we were trying to figure out how to stay afloat (I think game 11 or 14 of the season). I got a call saying I was going to start. So hearing my name called out for the lineups was a pretty cool moment for me.

You were teammates with Derrick Rose. How much could you soak up from him and did he take you under his wing?

Pooh! That’s a legend. DRose was a great vet, player, mentor, friend, or whatever you want to call him, he was great at it. It’s hard to explain but when he was talking, it was like everybody should be listening. I don’t know how to describe it but yeah any chance I got to ask questions or talk about basketball or life with him, it was super impactful to me.

You were then briefly with the Brooklyn Nets and played 4 games. You were teammates with Dennis Schroeder. How did you experience him in the short time there?

He was great. One of the most competitive people I’ve ever met. Playing alongside him and seeing him do what he does in action was really good to experience, especially as a small guard. I actually got to play him earlier in the season when he was with Toronto which was fun to get a chance to go up against him. But he was helpful, I tried to pick his brain and get some pointers on areas of the game and he was quick to share knowledge. He actually texted me after we played Braunschweig my first game and was talking trash! So hopefully we get to play them in the playoffs and he finds a way to show up to a game.

You played at the University of Richmond (NCAA) from 2017-2022 reaching the big dance in 2022. What kind of a player were you coming in in 2017 and what kind of a player when you left in 2022?

I think I was just a kid trying to play. I didn’t really know how difficult college basketball was, I just thought I was good and eventually it would show, but I didn’t expect to have the type of success I did that early. I think I left as a player who was battle tested and had been through ups and downs and always found a way to adapt.

You won the Atlantic 10 title in 2022 over Davidson. Was that one of your biggest wins in the NCAA? You got revenge after losing 87-84 some months earlier.

Sort of. It was the A10 championship so it was a huge deal for us. But beating Iowa in the tournament was probably a bigger deal and then beating Kentucky in Rupp Arena was pretty special.

In your fourth season you beat Kentucky scoring 6 points and dishing out 6 dimes. What memories do you have of that game beating a NCAA powerhouse and future NBA players?

I just remember not really having a sold out arena because of Covid which made it less fun, but still was the bright spot of that year. I think I was on Sportscetner top 10 after that game for a play I made so that was probably the thing I remember most.

You played 3 seasons with Blake Francis. He said this about you in an interview I did with him last season. “We always definitely made each other better and got the best of each other. And yeah, him having success at the NBA/G-League level drives me to keep going because you never know what may happen in the future. What memories will you always have of him? Did you guys become like brothers?

Blake was as tough and competitive as they come. He was exactly what we needed at Richmond when he transferred in. His first year playing was the year the Covid shut down the tournament, but I think we would have made some noise had it not been canceled.

How did head coach Chris Mooney groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I think coach did a good job of preparing me for being on the court with better players. We played a style of offense that was unpredictable and did not depend on one person having the ball in their hand the whole game. So as a pro (especially in the NBA) I found myself without the ball a lot and other guys making plays and being able to play off the ball. I think he preached playing the right way and that is something that is universal in this game so just continuing to always do that has gotten me to where I am today.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Blake Francis?

I’d say Blake and I had our fair share of battles. One day he would win and then the next day I would win… Just always back and forth. But in the end, we always brought out the best in each other.

Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA ?

I think the toughest player I ever had to guard was James Harden. That was my matchup for the Clippers last year. It was super fun and challenging to get to go against one of the best guards to ever play the game.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Michael Porter Jr. Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson, Grant Golden.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

I did not watch that sequel. Usually sequels are not as good as the original, so I tend to stay away from them.

Thanks Jacob for the chat.