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Emanuel Cate(Romanian National Team) Will Never Forget Getting Kicked Out Of Practice With Luka Doncic But Coming Back And Playing Great In Next Game

Pic credit: Fiba

Emanuel Cate (207-C-1997) is a 29 year old 207cm center from Romania that is playing his sixth season for Spanish ACB team Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain). He also has ACB experience having played for Baxi Manresa and Betis Sevilla. He won 5 titles with U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca (Liga Nationala). He began his career in the Real Madrid youth sector. He also has been a Romanian national player for the last decade. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Emanuel for talking to germanhoops.com. You have played with the Romanian national team for a decade. What does it mean for you to play for your country?

It is always great being around these guys. I have been together with some of them since being kids. We share so much together. I love playing in front of family and friends. We have built so many great memories on the court and off the court we stick together.

You played at the 2017 Euro and in the first game played against the Czech Republic and Tomas Satoransky and Jiri Welsh. Is that Euro a blur for you now or do you still remember it well?

I still remember that Euro well. You never forget the first time. We had experienced guys then and it was our first Euro in 30 years. It was a unique experience for all. It was a great experience to be 20 years old and play on a stage like that.

Your teammate then and now in the national team is Nandor Kuti. Are you guys like brothers?

Of course we are brothers. We always try to catch up on our lives and careers whenever we can. He lives in Bukarest also and we go out together when we are in the city.

You also lost to Spain by 41 points at the 2017 Euro and played against 7 NBA players like Marc Gasol, Ricky Rubio and Juan Carlos Navarro. Pau Gasol was a DNP. What memories do you have of that game? Were you in awe?

I already had known Sergio Rodriguez from my time at Real Madrid as juniors. We were in the same academy in Madrid. That Spanish team was unbelievable then. That may have been one of the greatest team in Europe ever. They played such beautiful basketball. It was one of the best games I ever played in.

Now in 2026 Romania began with a solid win against Denmark. Bulgaria is up next. How good do you see the chances of qualifying with this new coaching staff?

We are on a good way as we continue to improve. We showed that in Denmark and will be prepared for Bulgaria. This is now a unique chance to keep improving as a team and take the fresh new ideas of the new coaching staff.

How incredible of a player is Dragos Diculescu. His versatility really stands out, but what is something about his game that not many know?

Dragos is a student of the game. He is very passionate about the game and always asking questions. He is always trying to improve and bring the best version of himself on the court.

What is the state of Romanian basketball at the moment? Who are some up and coming prospects?

I think that it is positive at the moment. We have 3-4 good players for the next 5-10 years. I hope they keep improving, because we need new blood for the future. It will take a little time for them to get used to the system and evolve into good rotation players. A name to watch is Sebastian Lapuste who had a strong U-16 Euro recently.

Germany are defending World and Euro champions. 10 years ago Germany had Dirk Nowitzki and an up and coming Dennis Schroeder and now they are #1. Is Germany a country that can become a dynasty?

Their results in the last years have shown that Germany have invested well in their youth system and taken advantage of their great facilities. I see Germany being a powerhouse in the next 5-10 years.

You were 2 years with the Real Madrid in the youth sector. How did that come about? It is rare that a Romanian boy go to Real Madrid.

I was discovered at the U-16 Euro. That was where I had my first real contact with European basketball. I had many options then with USA and other European clubs. At first my family wasn´t too keen on me going away, but after 1,5 years I decided to go to Real Madrid. It was the absolute best option I had then and was the best basketball decision I ever made in my life.

How intense were those 2 years? What did you learn there that helped you on your way to becoming a professional player?

Those two years were intense, intense, intense. Everything that I learned in those two years, I have applied to my game. That whole experience there changed my whole mentality on and off the court. I was like a sponge bob that tried to absorb everything possible. My work ethic became so well. It really helped me that I was around such great coaches and players.

At that time Real Madrid had so many incredible players especially from Spain like Rudy Fernandez, Sergio Llull or Sergio Rodriguez. What one player had the biggest impact on you?

I didn´t practice so much them. I learned by asking from them. I tried to pick up as much as I could so I could become players the way they were.

How did you experience a very young Luka Donic then? Did you ever practice with him or have conversations?

He was my teammate and was 2 years younger. He was an incredible talent. 5 players from that team reached the ACB immediately. We were together every day. I remember a time when we were playing for the Real Madrid farm team that played in the EBA (4th division). I remember that in practice, the day before a game, Luka and I weren´t there mentally and coach kicked us out. We left the court not knowing what to do. Despite that, coach let us play the next day in the game. We both were so hungry to perform well the next day and did. We learned from that mistake.

You then played a season with Baloncesto Sevilla and played only 11 ACB games. How tough was it coming from the Real Madrid organization and not playing? What did you learn from this experience?

I wanted to become a pro player. I learned here that I needed to be patient and wait for a chance. I kept working hard knowing that my chance would eventually come.

The next season you didn´t play much again, but were teammates with legend Bostjan Nachbar, How much of an enrichment was he for a young man like you?

He sat next to me on my right in the locker room. I was the youngest on the team and he talked to me everyday. That really helped me. He had so much experience and was a great veteran. He showed me some moves and where to stand in certain situations. I would watch his NBA highlights and we would both laugh about it.

You help beat Real Madrid 86-85 and played 3 minutes. What do you remember from that game? You can say you beat Luka Doncic.

Yes that´s true. I remember that game well. It was around Christmas and my whole family came to the game. I really wanted to play. I was really locked in. I might of only played 3 minutes, but I played to get the win.

You then took a step back and played a season with CB Prat Juventud (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 10.2ppg, RPG-1 (8.6), BPG-1 (1.6), FGP: 63.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.2%. Did this maybe save your career? How vital was it taking a step back wards for your development?

That season definitely saved my career. It was the only step that I had at the time. I had to make it there. My only choice was to play good there and return to the ACB or go back to Romania. Sometimes it is correct to take a step back to take two steps forward.

You then played 4 years with Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB playing 125 ACB games averaging 5/3. Can one say that this was your fondest moments as a pro?

I wouldn´t say that it was the best time in my career, but it was a very nice 4 years. I had worked so hard to reach the ACB and now I was there and remained. I had so much fun on the court, but at the same time continued to learn and a lot and develop my game further. I added so much to my bag. It was like a dream come true.

How much fun was it playing with an exceptional point guard like Brad Oleson. Could he always blindly find you?

Brad was one of the funniest teammates that I had in my career. I played with him in his last season as a pro after he had had a long run with FC Barcelona. It was a privilege to play with him.

Another season you were teammates with undersized American center Delroy James. How challenging was it guarding a physical player like him?

I remember he came late into the season and was coming off a tough injury. He liked playing with his back to the basket. He was a very tough player and was fun to be around him.

What was your fondest moment in the ACB in those 4 years with Murcia?

We had some big wins. In my third season, we were very close to beating Real Madrid. I remember having a great game. I made some jump shots and some three´s which was new to me then.

You then went home and played 2 seasons with U-Banca Transilvania Cluj Napoca (Liga Nationa) averaging 12.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.6apg, BPG-1 (1.2), FGP-3 (73.6%), 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 79.6% and 12.9ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 67.9%, 3PT-3 (55.6%), FT: 84.1%; You won the double each season. Both years you beat Oradea in the final. Which finals was the more taxing?

The first year´s final was the toughest. That was all a new experience. They were up 2-0 in the best of seven series. We then won 4 in a row. We got consistent in that series. That final was big for me, because I was back in Romania and wanted to prove to all that I could win.

You were teammates with the great American Patrick Richard. What memories do you have of him? He has to be one of your best teammates of all-time list?

Yes he is at the top. He really knows how to play the game and is a great person. It was a great experience to be around him. I will always root for him.

You then played a season with BAXI Manresa (Spain-ACB) averaging 7.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 62.7%, FT: 79.7%. You swept FC Barcelona. What will you remember of this season?

It was great for me returning to the ACB. I remember sweeping FC Barcelona. That season we beat almost all the top 8 teams and lost to the bad teams. It was not a good balance. I think we could of done even better, but ran out of gas at the end. It was a unique year. I remember beating Malaga by 40 points.

Last season you returned back to Universidad Catolica de Murcia CB (Spain-ACB) averaging 6.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 68.9%. There were many new faces. Will Murcia always be a home for you?

Murcia is like a second home for me. I will return for 2026-2027. I will be ready to play.

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

Eddy Tavares. He was my biggest challenge on the court in the ACB. It was always elbow vs elbow. I´m proud to say that I did well against him which wasn´t easy to do.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Luka Doncic, Brad Oleson, Bostjan Nachbar, DJ Seely and myself

Please list your NBA, and Euroleague Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Steph Curry and Shaq

Sergio Llull, Vasilios Spanoulis, Juan Carlos Navarro, Andre Kirilenko

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

Thanks Emanuel for the chat.

Hayden Thomas’s Big Goal Is Find A Team In Germany With His Versatile Game And WithThe Help Of Ron Howard

Hayden Thomas (193-G, college: Bethel, TN) is a 193cm guard from Missouri that began his basketball career at Twin Rivers High School. He then played two seasons of JUCO at Rend Lake College (JUCO) averaging 12.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 74.5% and at North Arkansas College (JUCO) averaging 8.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 39.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 70.0%. He then played 3 seasons at Bethel University, Tennessee (NAIA). He sampled early pro experience with Howard Hoops (Thailand-Warriors League) averaging 19.1ppg, 6.6rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT-1 (55.1%). He spoke germanhoops.com before taking part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Tour.

Thanks Hayden for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the RSI Las Vegas Overseas Combine. Was it everything that you expected it would be?

Yes! It was a great experience showcasing my talent in front of pro coaches from NBA Summer League, NBA G League, pro coaches from Europe and Asia, and other agents that were in attendance. It was neat being able to network and connect with some of the coaches as well.

Talk a little about how you played in all the games. What did you average and were you happy with your performance?

I played well in all of the games. The first game was my best showing for sure. I had 12 points in the first game and was very efficient from the floor offensively. I went 3-3 from 2point FG and 2/3 from 3point FG. Going 5/6 from the field with 12 points and a win was pretty cool kicking off the first day of the showcase. I averaged about 10ppg throughout the showcase. I was happy with my performance, but I know I can always learn to be better after each game. There were 10 players on my team and the games went by super fast so as a player, you had to be aggressive and show what you could do while you were in.

What do you feel did people see most from your game in Las Vegas?

I feel like they saw a winner first mentality in me. Also a high IQ, high character player who leads his team with positive communication and body language. I feel that people saw that I can space the floor with my efficient shooting ability and guard the perimeter at any guard position. Playing together and having a winning mentality alongside my teammates helped us get to the championship game. We came up short in the championship, but it was an awesome experience giving ourselves an opportunity to win it all out of 10 teams that were there.

You were ranked 6th at the showcase out of 100 players. Did you get any kind of feedback from Gm´s and coaches?

I got some feedback from my coach during the showcase. He is Coach Facundo Petracci from Argentina. He was a great leader on the sidelines and in the huddles with us during the showcase. I also got some feedback from the Coast2Coast Coaches who helped run the Showcase. My agent had told me that some coaches from Germany and Spain contacted him during the showcase and were interested in me as well.

You worked together with the maker of the combine Ron Howard. How did he help you most in understanding the business of the job?

He helped me be in the right positions to be successful on and off the court. He gave me confidence to be myself out there on the court to make the right plays and do what’s best for the team. He also helped me off the court networking with other coaches, trainers, and agents to get their feedback of how I was playing and what I can do to better my game.

Now you will take part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Tour. How excited are you for this opportunity?

I am super excited for this opportunity. I want to be in Europe and play for a team in Germany. I am excited to play in some games and show the other teams and coaches what I can do. I am also excited to practice with some teams and get to know some people in the basketball business in Germany.

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

I know the country Germany is known for their bratwurst and pretzels. I also know their flag is black, red and yellow. I know that two of the bigger cities in Germany are Berlin and Frankfurt. Regarding basketball, I know Germany competes in the Olympics at a high level every time. Knowing that Dirk Nowitzki is from Germany, him and many other talented basketball players are from there.

Have you had any former teammates or opponents play in Germany?

Yes! One of my former teammates I played with on St. Louis Gateway in the Adidas Circuit back in high school plays in Germany right now currently. His name is Ja’Monta Black. He plays for VfL SparkassenStars in Bochum, Germany in the Pro A League.

What are your goals for the tour in Germany. Is there anything that you want to show with your game that you didn´t show in Las Vegas?

My goals for the tour in Germany is to make a team and stay in Germany for this next season starting up for 2026/27. I want to show more of my versatility in my game that I maybe didn’t get to show a ton in Las Vegas.

You stated 2 things you need to get better at is defense and ball handling. How well has those 2 ´parts of your game progressed this summer?

I believe those two parts of my game have progressed in a positive way. I have been in the weight room this summer and working on my feet and agility to have quicker feet. I have also been doing a lot of ball handling drills.

How big is your desire to play overseas? How confident are you that it will become reality?

I have big dreams to play overseas and make an impact on a team or multiple teams in my career. I am feeling really confident on my preparation in my game that it will become reality leading into Germany in the next couple of weeks. I understand everything happens for a reason and I am thankful for God’s timing because I feel strongly ready to make that next step and perform at a high level. My game has grown and expanded so much from the high school and college level getting older, maturing on the court, being more efficient and being more knowledgeable about certain spots, spacing, timing, and angles within the game. I feel so good right now mentally and physically being 100% healthy and in the best shape I have been in a while at 25 years old.

Germany has so many great foods. Is there one you’re looking forward to trying?

Yes! I am looking forward to trying a Famous German Bratwurst. I flew into Germany on my way to Portugal last year in 2025, but it was early in the morning and I didn’t eat anything from the airport. I will definitely have more time this go around.

The Philadelphia 76ers look really good on paper. Could they win it all?

Yes! They do look really good on paper. I think if the whole team can stay healthy 1-15 players throughout the season and playoffs, I believe they have a great chance at winning it all this next season.

Thanks Hayden for the chat.

Zavier Patterson Is Striving For A New Opportunity Outside England And Always Has To Prove Himself More Than Others

Zavier Patterson (178-PG-2002) is a 178cm guard from the United Kingdom. He played with Sutton Coldfield James Watt College (U19 League). He then gathered professional experience with teams like the Northamptonshire Titans (NBL D2), Worcester Wolves (NBL D2) and the Oxford Hoops (NBL D1). He will take part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp in Germany. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Zavier for talking to germanhoops.com. Your taking part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp. How did this this opportunity come about for you?

I saw Coach Ron post about it on his instagram so I messaged him about it as I was already in contact with him trying to get me an opportunity in Ireland.

You have played in your native England the last years. Why did you take part in this tour?

Because I would like an opportunity to play in a different country and to become a professional basketball player full time.

Would you ever consider playing in Germany?

Yes I definitely would.

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

I know that it is one of the highest levels in Europe with a few teams playing in the Euroleague. They also have many tiers going down to at least division 5 so they have a lot of opportunities for players.

Have you ever had any friends, former teammates or opponents go overseas and ball? If yes what reports did you get from them?

Yes I have they have advised it can be tough and very cut throat as you are always competing for spots and playing time.

What was your impression of founder Ron Howard. Are you aware that he has helped so many guys get jobs?

My impression of him is good and he got me a trial opportunity last year and I’m aware he has helped many others become full professional.

Many guys say he is so genuine and tells it like it is to you. What did you appreciate most about his dedication to helping unknown guys get overseas?

His willingness to work with you and giving you a true evaluation of your abilities.

If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Tyrese Maxey I think is the best description.

Your only 180cm. Have you been overlooked your whole life? Do you have a big chip on your shoulder?

I have been sometimes but I do feel like I have to prove myself more than everyone else.

Let´s talk about your game. Your a183cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

A mix between Kyrie Irving and Tyrese Maxey

Talk about your offensive game. What are your biggest strengths?

My ability to create my shot at will my quickness and ability to create for others.

How would you describe your defense? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Tough. I want to become a more physical defender as I currently just use my quickness.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

My finishing and off the dribble 3.

You played junior basketball at Sutton Coldfield James Watt College (U19 League) How did your game grow there under Steven Hansell?

It was good. He coached me as a junior mostly where he really helped me develop my shot but I did not finish the u19 season unfortunately due to injury.

You then gathered pro experience with the Northamptonshire Titans (NBL D2) and Worcester Wolves (NBL D2). How were those experiences for you?

Those were good experiences learning curves most as they were my first 2 seasons back after not playing for 3 years but I feel like I learned what I needed from them.

You last played with the Oxford Hoops (NBL D1). How was that experience for you?

It was an interesting experience did not go quite as I expected but another learning experience.

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

Amari Williams as a junior player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Shekoni Faure Lewis

Jamie Cummings

Sedale Hanson young

Hayden Alcindor

Zack Powell

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Allen Iverson

Kyrie irving

Derrick Rose

Stephen Marbury

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 have not seen that film

Thanks Zavier for the chat.

Max Raudaschl´s Mind And Heart Continue To Tell Him To Pursue His Dream Of Professional Basketball Despite So Many Tough Set Backs In His Life

Max Raudaschl is a 26 year old Austrian-Canadian player that was born in Singapore and raised internationally across Singapore, Canada and UAE. He played at IMG Academy from 2016-2018. He served in the military in Singapore and then earned a bachelor´s degree in Food nutrition and health. He has pro experience with Eurobasket and Coast2Coast showcases. He spoke to germanhoops.com before taking part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp

Thanks, Max, for talking to germanhoops.com. You are taking part in the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp. How did this opportunity come about for you?

I met Ron Howard during the Coast2Coast showcase in Las Vegas this July. A friend who was also participating introduced us and told me that Ron worked as an agent and representative for players pursuing opportunities in Germany. Ron and I spoke about my background, and he immediately recognized that my Austrian citizenship could be a major advantage. He watched my next game, saw potential in me, and told me about the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp. I was interested immediately.

You have no professional or college basketball experience, so the odds appear to be against you. What keeps you pursuing your dream of playing professional basketball?

I found basketball on my own when I was 11 years old and growing up in Singapore, where the sport did not receive much exposure or recognition. I was not raised in a sporting or athletic environment, and nobody influenced me to choose basketball. That made the game feel like it was truly mine. I pushed myself to become the best player I could be because I loved the challenge. I believe that going as far as I possibly can through my work ethic is a way of honoring the kid who fell in love with the game in the beginning. Basketball has given me a great deal, and I have given a great deal of myself to it. Playing professionally remains my dream. My journey has also included several setbacks. After graduating from IMG Academy, I had to complete two years of mandatory military service in Singapore. Then COVID hit, and for a period I genuinely thought my opportunity to pursue basketball was over. Coaching AAU basketball in 2023 reignited that spark and made me want to try again. Those circumstances help explain why I never played at the university or professional level. Even after restarting my journey, an osteochondral lesion in my left knee created another major setback. Despite everything, my mind and heart continued telling me to pursue this dream.

What do you know about Germany as a country and about German basketball?

As an Austrian, I see Germans almost as our extended cousins. We share similarities in language, food, and culture. From a basketball standpoint, however, I knew very little before arriving. Learning basketball terminology in German has been more difficult than I expected, and adjusting to the mentality has also been a significant change for me. I am still learning how the different leagues and levels operate, but every day here is teaching me more about German basketball.

Have any of your friends, former teammates, or opponents played professionally overseas? If so, what have they told you about the experience?

Yes. They have advised me to stay completely locked in and understand that the environment may be very different from what I am accustomed to. That can include cultural differences, different attitudes, and facilities or resources that may not be familiar. At the same time, they have described it as an incredible journey and encouraged me to embrace every challenge and every moment. Despite the difficulties, they all ultimately enjoyed the experience.

What was your first impression of Howard Hoops founder Ron Howard? Were you aware that he has helped many players secure professional opportunities?

My first impression of Ron was his complete transparency. He did not give me false hope or make promises he could not guarantee. He was completely honest about how he viewed me as both a player and a person, yet he was still willing to help someone without an established resume pursue his dream. When I first met Ron, I did not know how many players he had helped. I learned more about his track record as we spoke more frequently during my time in Las Vegas.

Many players describe Ron as genuine and honest – someone who tells players exactly how things are. What have you appreciated most about his dedication to helping unknown players pursue opportunities overseas?

I appreciate Ron’s honesty above all. That transparency is what makes him genuine. He is also extremely responsive and has always been available to answer my questions. Even while guiding me from afar during my time in Germany, he has helped me with everything from finding food and seeing the city to understanding the train system. Most importantly, he has connected me with teams and practices here. His dedication is demonstrated through his actions and the genuine care he shows his players.

You were raised in three very different places: Singapore, Canada, and the UAE. How have those international experiences shaped you as a man and as a basketball player?

Living in those very different places taught me about perspective, culture, and different ways of life. I am grateful that I was able to travel and see much of the world at a young age. Those experiences taught me to remain open-minded and avoid judging others, because everyone sees life through the lens of their own upbringing and culture. Each place has become part of who I am, and I honor and embrace all of them.

I also lived in Austria briefly as a child to learn the language and spent time in Hong Kong to connect with the language and my Chinese heritage. For me, home is not simply one place; it is where my heart belongs. That background has made me adaptable, comfortable moving to unfamiliar places, and able to connect with people and build friendships around the world.

As a basketball player, the game has always helped me connect with people through something we love in common. The rules, etiquette, and culture surrounding basketball may differ from place to place, but the love for the game remains the same. I am still relatively new to traveling specifically for basketball, so I continue to learn the nuances of being an overseas player joining a team in a new environment.

You attended the well-known IMG Academy from 2016 to 2018. How did that experience shape you as a basketball player?

Attending IMG Academy gave me experiences that I could never have replicated by staying home. It gave me an honest understanding of my level while placing me around some of the best high-school prospects in the country. Some of those players went on to NCAA Division I programs and eventually reached the NBA. I saw firsthand the differences in strength, size, speed, athleticism, skill, and mentality at that level.

The only way forward was to build the mental toughness and resilience required to compete every day against players who were ahead of me in many aspects of the game, while also handling a demanding daily schedule. IMG reinforced the importance of maintaining a high work ethic because everyone around me worked hard, and the environment demanded that standard. Natural talent and physical gifts were not within my control, but my mindset and willingness to keep working were.

NBA player Anfernee Simons was also at IMG Academy during that period. What interactions or experiences did you have with him?

Anfernee was a postgraduate at IMG during the year before he entered the NBA. I first saw him play against Montverde Academy, and over those two years I watched him shoot the ball at an incredible level. Most of our direct interactions were brief hellos and dap-ups, but watching him play was an experience in itself.

You have dealt with injuries in recent years and have participated in several exposure events, including Eurobasket and Coast2Coast. How difficult has that journey been, and how have you handled it mentally?

I attended Coast2Coast in both 2025 and 2026, as well as events run by Rise Above Sports Group and HoopKIngS. At some of those events, I was competing on an injured knee. I had already paid to participate, so I chose to play through it to understand the environment and learn how to connect with coaches, agents, and other players.

The journey that followed was extremely difficult, both physically and mentally. I went through extensive rehabilitation and more than 10 injections in my knee while trying to find a way to play the game the way I knew I could. At the beginning, I lived with chronic pain for six or seven months. It affected not only my basketball but also my everyday life. The experience humbled and challenged me in every possible way. There were many moments when I wanted to quit, spoke to myself in the mirror, and had to confront the reality that I could no longer move the way I once did, either physically or psychologically.

I was fortunate to meet some incredible people in Los Angeles who helped treat me and rebuild my body to where it is today, and I am deeply grateful for them. Mentally, I survived by taking things one day at a time. A line from Nipsey Hussle’s song “Dedication” kept playing in my head: “Dedication, hard work plus patience.” I knew I had to keep moving forward. Instead of chasing perfection, I chased progression. As the months passed, I began feeling the improvements and gradually regained my abilities and confidence. I simply had to keep going.

Do you currently have a regular 9-to-5 job? How difficult is it to balance your other responsibilities with consistently working on your game?

I do not currently have a regular 9-to-5 job. I graduated from university in 2025 and took a gap year to focus on rehabilitating my knee and preparing for the exposure events in Las Vegas this July. I am now in Germany pursuing the next stage of that journey. I have also done some nutrition consulting throughout the year, but it has not been a conventional full-time position.

If you had to compare your playing style to an NBA player, who would be the closest comparison, and why?

I would compare parts of my game to Alex Caruso because I love playing defense, competing, and doing the hustle work that helps a team win. Offensively, I see some modest similarities to Jalen Brunson. I am comfortable using my left hand, enjoy physicality, and look to punish smaller guards in the post when the opportunity is available.

Describe your offensive game. What are your greatest strengths?

I play ambidextrously. I shoot three-pointers with my left hand, but I am comfortable shooting midrange shots and finishing with either hand. I love to score, and driving is usually my first option. I use physicality to create space before settling for a jump shot. I also believe one of my greatest strengths is decision-making. I want our team to generate the best possible scoring opportunity, whether that means I take the shot or create it for a teammate. I am an unselfish player.

How would you describe your defense? What kind of defender are you currently, and what type of defender do you still want to become?

I am a solid half-court defender, particularly against players who like to play physically. I embrace contact and enjoy that challenge. I still want to become more disruptive across the entire floor – the type of defender who can pick up full court, pressure the ball, and create chaos in the way Patrick Beverley did.

Which areas of your game are you working on the most right now?

I am focusing most on improving my three-point shooting and controlling my pace. I am learning how to remain relaxed while still playing quickly and decisively.

Who is the toughest player you have ever competed against who eventually reached the NBA?

Bruno Fernando, particularly in a one-on-one setting.

Who are the five best teammates you have played with during your basketball career?

Jacob Ray, Max Williams, JeMell Swafford, Osei Price, and Darik T-Harriet.

Who would be on your personal NBA basketball Mount Rushmores?

My NBA Mount Rushmore would probably be Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Stephen Curry.

Who is your basketball GOAT, and why?

For me, it is between Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. Both possessed extraordinary tenacity, competitiveness, and work ethic. Each reached a different level in his respective era, and both played the game the right way.

Did you watch Coming 2 America, the sequel to the original Coming to America? Do you think they should have left the classic alone?

I watched it, and it was cool to see the characters again when they were older. But yes, I think they probably should have left the classic alone.

Thanks Max for the chat.

Myles Owens Knows How Tough The Odds Are But His Obsession With The Game Doesn’t Allow Him To Stop Chasing The Dream Overseas

Myles Owens (183-PG) is a 183cm guard from Tinton Falls New Jersey that played at Monmouth Regional. He then played at Kean University (NCAA3). He is striving for a pro career overseas and is taking part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp in Germany. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Myles for talking to germanhoops.com. Your taking part at the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp. How did this this opportunity come about for you?

I first heard about Coach Ron through another player who had gotten an opportunity with him. I stayed in contact with Coach Ron for some time, and that relationship eventually led to the opportunity to come out here to Germany and take part in the Howard Hoops Europe Exposure Camp.

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

I know Germany has a strong basketball market with a lot of different leagues and opportunities for players. I’ve also watched some basketball and really enjoy the style of play, the pace, ball movement, physicality, and team-oriented approach are things that fit the way I like to play.

Have you ever had any friends, former teammates or opponents go overseas and ball? If yes what reports did you get from them?

Yes, I’ve had friends and former players I’ve competed with go overseas. The biggest thing I’ve heard is that it’s extremely competitive and definitely not easy, but at the same time it’s an amazing experience and an opportunity that not many players get to have.

You last played college ball 5 years ago and played at a camp overseas in Nice, France. The odds aren´t high to make it, but what keeps you going to have that belief that you could make it?

I just love the game and everything that comes with it, the early mornings, the late nights, the work, and the competition regardless of the level. Basketball has taught me so much, and I want to keep learning, keep improving, and keep competing. I’m obsessed with this game, and I want to prove not only to myself, but also to the players coming after me, that if I can keep chasing something like this and create opportunities for myself, they can do the same, and hopefully even more

How tough has the grind been the lasty ears. Do you have a normal 9-5 job?

I actually have a job as a coach/trainer in Jersey. And I love it. I love coaching, love teaching the young generation this game.

What was your impression of founder Ron Howard. Are you aware that he has helped so many guys get jobs?

He’s honest, respectful, and seems like a great father and an even better person. I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from him and take in as much as I can during my time here in Germany.

Many guys say he is so genuine and tells it like it is to you. What did you appreciate most about his dedication to helping unknown guys get overseas?

The honesty. Some people guarantee things or make promises they cannot keep. He is going to tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.

Let´s talk about your game. Your a183cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’m not sure how accurate I am. I watch a lot of film on him. Younger Patty Mills. And I try to be

Talk about your offensive game. What are your biggest strengths? You seem to be a very good outside shooter.

My game has always been shooting the basketball. Coming off screens, off ball screening, off ball movement, running in transition, paint touches to create for others, getting others touches.

How would you describe your defense? What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I love playing 94 feet. I want to be a tone-setter on the defensive end, communication to me is very important in this game. I do believe I have more to improve on, but I want to be able to make my presence known on that end.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment?

Getting to the rim creatively could improve, and I just want to keep improving on the IQ end. I want to see plays 2 or 3 steps ahead.

You played at a pro camp in Nice, France. How was that experience for you?

Amazing. It was a beautiful place, great competition, learned from the coaches, made good friends and good connections. One of those connections actually led me here. I learned a lot and it taught me to be more aggressive, and to be better at adapting my game.

You played at Kean University (NCAA3). How do you remember that experience? What was your fondest moment there on the court?

Kean taught me to keep going even when things don’t go your way. I went from no minutes year 1 to starter year 2. Staying true to your work, and buying into your role, whether it’s the role you want or not. My first start was my fondest moment. It just was all my work coming together.

How did head coach David Turco groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

So I started with Coach Adam Hutchinson who groomed me as a player before Coach Turco got there. Coach Hutchinson continued to stay on me, even my first year when I didn’t get playing time. He never let up on me, and it made me stronger.

Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Jared Latane?

Jared was a hell of a 1 on 1 player, I’ll give him that, we always gave him the basketball when the clock went down.

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

I played pickup once against Ron Harper Jr. and he straight dominated. Goes to show there’s really levels to this game.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

1. Jailen Jamison (Kean)

2. Jared Latane (Kean)

3. Kendall Blount (Kean)

4. Ian Fitzgerald (High School)

5. Tyric Trapp (AAU high school)

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kyrie Irving

Michael Jordan

Lebron James

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Kyrie Irving.

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

I didn’t see it. Got to leave the classics alone. Hahah

Thanks Myles for the chat.

2 Way Player Chandler Pigge´s Incredible Experience at Phillips Exeter Academy And Harvard Has Prepared Him For The Next Chapter Overseas With Manchester Basket

When your driving around beautiful New England where one can see history of all kinds dating back to 1775 with Paul Revere´s famous ride from Boston To Lexington and further back, but also breathtaking scenery that will help you fall in love with new locations at the blink of an eye. Stuck in the middle of all these pretty areas are also many well known prep schools where each campus has it´s own charm. A few weeks ago, I was driving around with my family on vacation on the way to a bustling beach in Maine when I came upon Exeter, New Hampshire. I didn´t have to think more than a few seconds before deciding to turn off on the exit and head to the town that was founded in 1638. I had ties to the school as I actually been there a little more than 40 years ago watching future NHL hall of famer Brian Leetch play his last high school game against Thayer Academy. Plus my step sister went to school there. Leetch and our school Avon Old Farms lost 6-3 against future NHL hall of famer Jeremy Roenick and future top NHL player Tony Amonte. I remember that game as it was yesterday. I only remembered that game, but not the Exeter campus back in 1986, but I´m sure a lot had changed in 40 years. The Exeter campus looked beautiful in 2026 and it was great being back. A few weeks later a new basketball experience that I had showed again how small the world is. I had the opportunity to interview a Harvard graduate by the name of Chandler Pigge (196-G, college: Harvard) who is starting his rookie season overseas in England with Manchester Basket. The club was to play a test game in Frankfurt against the Skyliners and I wanted to have the scoop on this extraordinary young man. Prep school was an incredible experience for me at Avon Old Farms that I will never forget and It wasn´t any different for Pigge at Exeter. “I loved Phillips Exeter Academy. I always say that it prepared me on every level for Harvard. Academically, athletically and socially. It was a small scale of Harvard. I have an incredible community there that supports me so I always love to go back there and train. Exeter is one of my favorite places to be in the summers”, stressed Chandler Pigge.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber in Exeter, New Hampshire July 2026

Chandler Pigge who lists Xaivian Lee of Princeton, Kelel Ware of the Miami Heat, John Poulakidas (Dallas) and Bez Mbeng (Utah) of Yale as his toughest opponents in the NCAA was born in Houston on June 12, 2003. However he spent a lot of his youth in Germany and even played briefly for the FC Bayern Munich youth team “I lived in Germany for 5 years. I came in eighth grade and went all through high school. My best memories are of basketball. I played basketball for my dad and we won a lot of championships. I have fond memories off the court traveling to Berlin, Munich and Trier. We also will be playing in Trier soon”, stated Chandler Pigge. Unfortunately for him something very serious derailed his time in Munich in 2021 as Covid had erupted and totally changed the world. “I only played one game for them. Covid started and they stopped the games and then the next year I graduated from high school and went to Exeter and then Harvard”, remembered Chandler Pigge. After a great and enriching time at Philips Academy, he then took the gigantic step to Harvard, a new route that he never ever regretted taking. “I grew at Harvard in every sense from basketball, academically, socially and spiritually. It was amazing to play there, because you weren´t tied down as an athlete. Being a student athlete at Harvard was real. You had to go to class and you had to be present. I learned from some of the most prestigious professors in the world and spent time with future CEO´s and presidents. I really lived out being a student athlete and I grew academically not being afraid to ask questions and ask for what you want. My coach was a big encourager on not only being tied down to the court, but being able to branch out and explore other passions. I believe that I grew for my love of film and serving others”, stressed Chandler Pigge. On the court, he made massive big steps at Harvard in his last 2 years averaging 13.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 75.0% and 12.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 75.3%. What kind of a player did he become in the last 2 years? “I became more of a Swiss Army knife type of player especially on the defensive end and with rebounding. I became a player that would go for the 50/50 balls, rebound and defend while on offense being more and aggressive and efficient getting to my spots and shots, I was joking with the guys the other day saying that I don´t want to be a guy shooting 20-30 shots, but be someone taking somewhere between 9-13 shots a game. I think that I did that Harvard”, said Chandler Pigge. He had the great opportunity and luck to be teammates with Chris Ledlum, a guy that is climbing up the basketball ladder overseas and had a great season in Germany last season with ratiopharm Ulm. “Chris was my guy. We had 4 seniors my freshman year. He was one of those guys that was always in the gym. He was a real gym rat. He was very efficient in getting his work outs in as well as recovery time. When it was game time, you didn´t want anyone else on your team. He was a real dog. He brought that component of being hungry every day. He brought the fire each day and I fed off that. He was a mentor to me in that always telling me to keep working hard and being patient with playing time. I followed his lead after that until I finished at Harvard. We both did that and that is why we are both playing professionally”, added Chandler Pigge.

The versatile player and Swiss Army knife that lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaq and Steph Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore can do a lot more than just out as he is also a flat out scorer. In his last 2 years he played 56 games and scored in double figures in 40 games. He really had Columbia´s number hitting them twice for 26 points. He had so many memorable moments on the court, but there is nothing better than being able to come out on top in the Harvard rivalry with Yale. “Beating Yale my junior year at home and then winning at Yale my senior was great. Going to the Ivy league tournament was also a fond memory. But honestly just competing with my teammates each game was memorable”, commented Chandler Pigge. Being able to grow at Harvard on and off the court wasn´t self-perpetuating as head coach Tommy Amaker played a big role in him becoming the man and player that he is today as ex players and he all have the same feeling about their ex coach. “There are not enough nice things I could say about Coach Amaker. He not only helped me become a better player but also a better person”, stressed ex Harvard player Siyani Chambers. “Being able to watch him and how he communicated. I really grew as a leader. Everyday before practice, he would talk to everyone and check in how we were doing and how our families were doing. It taught me to really cherish the little moments with every person that you encounter. Being able to connect on an individual level and not only on a collective is important. I´m excited to bring my leadership to Manchester and then to the rest of my career”, warned Chandler Pigge. Another person that he won´t forget is teammate Robert Hinton who he can´t wait to see attack the pro ranks soon. “We didn´t play 1-1 much. Robert was very strategic about his work outs. He competed more 5-5 which I can respect. He is a phenomenal player and I don´t think that any one can guard him 1-1. We had many battles back then, but he is going to be an amazing talent. I know he will be on the pro level soon. He is my guy”, stressed Chandler Pigge.

So what kind of player will fans see in Chandler Pigge who lists Lebron James as his GOAT in the United Kingdom SLB? He is a 196cm guard that gets a lot of comparisons to Lugentz Dort, Marcus Smart and Jrue Holiday, but models his game after the king. “I personally model my game after Lebron James. I´m not 6,8 and 250 pounds, but I like how he is a playmaker and wants all his teammates to be in the right spots on offense and defense. But if I had to compare my game after a guy then it would be Jrue Holiday”, said Chandler Pigge. He can fill the stat sheet (Swiss army knife) like no other and is a very good defender. Is he already a 2 way player at this juncture of your career and does he hear the Swiss army comparison at times? “I would say that I´m a two way player. I became that in college since it was my calling card. In high school I had the ball more in my hands, but in college I became more of an on and off ball defender. I think that being a 2 way player will be my calling card here. In college I feel like I was a Swiss army knife. I had to run the 4-5 in college while here I will probably more be running the 1-3. Being a Swiss army knife and being versatile is so important in basketball, so that´s what I´m trying to be here”, stressed Chandler Pigge. He never shot higher than 31% in his last three years at Harvard (NCAA) from outside. Is his three pointer still a work in progress? “It is definitely a work in progress. For me it mostly has to do with the mental part. I always had great mechanics, but it more had to do with my confidence. Now having put in a whole summer of work, I know it has improved and looking forward to showing it. It is definitely progressing”, warned Chandler Pigge. He is a very physical defender that can defend many positions. His development is going in a fine direction and he knows exactly where he wants to go in the future. “I´m a bully/pest type of defender. I´m more of a methodical defender off the ball, but want to become a tactical defender. It´s a long season and you really have to know your opponents. I want to become more strategical and not have to use it 100% of the time, but rather to know when to use that exertion”, explained Chandler Pigge. He continues to grind in the lab on his game so he will continue to improve overseas. “I want to become a more consistent shooter especially off the catch and shoot. Important for me was also coming in healthy and strong and not having any aches or pains and being mobile and having that versatility”, added Chandler Pigge.

For the American who thought the classic Coming To America movie was really good, but the sequel didn´t necessarily hurt the movie series never regretted making the decision to play his rookie season with Manchester Basket. “I wanted to go to a club where I would be valued. The team really values defense and that is really my calling card. I could become a really good 2 way player and go up the ranks. Off the court, I wanted to go somewhere where there was culture. A place where I could get out of my apartment and explore. Me and a couple of the guys already went into the city and saw how beautiful it is. I love the British accent and talking to Brits. It´s an amazing feeling to be here”, stated Chandler Pigge. His rookie season will officially start in less than 3 weeks against German team Wurzburg in a Basketball Champions League game. He will already be in Germany weeks before playing some exhibition games. German basketball has really grown and they are current Euro and World champions. He is going to play an exhibition game in Frankfurt in the gym where ex NBA player Isaac Bonga practiced every day on his craft before being drafted in 2018. How has he followed German basketball over the years? “I followed it a little. I actually played with the FC Bayern youth team. It was a far drive for me then, but I have been able to keep up with their pro team when I was in college as well as keeping up with the German national team as well. So I followed it a bit”, said Chandler Pigge. For him it never gets old being in Germany. “It means everything to me to be back in Germany. Frankfurt was about 1,5 hours away from where I lived, so it´s right around home. A lot of family and friends will be at that game supporting me so I´m really excited”, added Chandler Pigge. It will be interesting to see how his game develops further in his rookie year with Manchester Basket. One thing is for sure his presence on and off the court will always be a great enrichment for anyone.

Dirk Maedrich Wins 2026 Fiba Masters Open And Will Never Forget The Special Mix Of Friendships, Camaraderie, Celebrating And Being A Team Together

Pic credit: Armin Cicic

Dirk Maedrich (212-C-1983) is a 43 year old 212cm German center who celebrated a 18 year career that allowed him to play in countries like Greece and France and let him enjoy 11 years in the easyCredit BBL for teams like Braunschweig, Bamberg, Artland, Giessen, Vechta, Bonn and Oldenburg playing 280 BBL games. He also won titles with Bamberg, and Rasta Vechta. He also played for the German national team and retired in 2018. He recently pulled on the jersey to play in the Fiba Masters Open and helped Germany win the Gold medal.

Thanks Dirk for talking to germanhoops.com You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. How did that come about?

Steffen Hamann called and asked if I wanted to play in the Ü40.

You retired 8 years ago. Do you still keep in shape? In what kind of shape did you go into the tournament?

8 years sounds so far away, but I still know how to hoop and the body feels good. With pickup games once a week, games on the weekend with the Rasta 4 team to stay fit for the Niedersachsen, Norddeutsche, and Deutsche championships, and hitting the gym 3 times a week, I try to stay fit for my kids. Plus, I still need the competition!

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

I’m happy that my wife let me go! I wanted them to come with me, but it didn’t work out, so it was like a men’s sports vacation with a happy ending!

With guys 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

The funny thing is, we all compete in the German ü40 championship in Vechta, where Munich took first place, the SG Vechta/Quakenbrück/Oldenburg came in second, and Paderborn finished third. What is there to prepare anyway? Everybody knows how to play defense and how to run Horns or Diamond. Except for conditioning, there isn’t much to prepare

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

Wooden flooring, a doctor in every gym, water, fruits… it was great. Experienced men competing at a high level against each other. In the end, it was always a fair fight. And the family could watch from home thanks to a well-working livestream! We played 5 on 5! A normal game, 4 times 10 minutes.

Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

The good thing is, everybody competing was over 40, so nobody could just outrun you. The guy from Georgia, Tskitishvili, impressed me a lot. I had to defend him for 30 minutes. Defense is my favorite strength and it felt perfect after the game, and my teammates said I did a good job, which felt amazing. He played for good teams and was drafted back in the day! He could still move really well from the top. We played perfect help defense

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffen Hamann, Daniel Lieneke, Omari Knox and Daniel Dorr. What was it like playing with them? Did it feel like a good old German basketball reunion?

Like you said, grown men with families coming together from home, sacrificing their time, competing together, and still loving the game after centuries of combined basketball knowledge! The time together was amazing. The tough part is coming back down to your regular life that might take a week, just like the soreness in your body!

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich, Doerr and Lieneke?

We all came prepared, handled the heat, and managed playing almost every day pretty well. With Schmiddy Mathias Schmidt, our physio, plus the out sponsor physios and doctors supporting us and the vegan protein POP Balls and massage guns, we had great support off the court.

What was it like being teammates with 2005 Euro Silver medalist Steffen Hamann? You won the BBL title 21 years ago. He still seems to be in good shape isn´t he?

He is still the leader just like back in the day. I love to play with him. He is in very good shape, I would step into any ring with him. He still has that fire, which motivates me to play with these guys. I don’t want to go on a boys’ trip, I want to play and I still have the hunger to win, and everybody on the team feels that way!

Did you keep in contact with that 2005 Bamberg team and Hamann over the years?

This group is something special and the group chat still exists!

How did you present your game? How content were you with your game?

I was feeling pretty good, making my threes and free throws. I missed a couple of easy ones around the basket, but overall, with an average of 15 points, it worked out pretty well!

What was the biggest challenge for a guy your age in this tournament besides the in shape aspect?

That’s a good question. I would say using the experience from last year to take care of your body: eat well, drink a lot of water, get enough sleep, and do yoga! Stretch and get a lift in every 2-3 days. I’m really happy that nobody got hurt, except for some bruises or pinched fingers. Everything worked out pretty well!

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn´t win this game?

There was a phase in the game where we were up by about 10–12 points and I thought, “Now we got them,” but they came back and tied the game! But we had Omari, and he pulled out the win for us. That was huge!

Talk a little about the last play. Omari Knox made the last shot. How exciting was that play?

First, he stole the ball and had a layup, but he kept an eye on the clock and the score, knocked down a huge three-pointer, and decided the game! That last play was just the tip of the iceberg of a great week and won the game for us.

What was your own personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

I think there were a couple of good ones, but what impressed me the most was when Steffen drove to the basket, both his and my defender tried to stop him, and he threw the ball blindfolded over his head right into my hands. I was completely wide open and nailed the three in a clutch and important phase of the game!

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal mean to you? You won a BBL cup and Pro A titles in Germany. Where do you rank it in your whole career?

Losing in the final last year and losing the German championship this year gave me a little extra push to not finish second again. So, the gold was a must-have to bring home to the family. But actually, the friendships, the memories, the camaraderie, the resilience, and being a team and celebrating together are just as important to me, and the mix makes it perfect!

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

The camaraderie and having a good time together. Being a team and supporting each other is what brings you together, and I was always successful when the team truly acted as a team!

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

If my body holds up and my wife keeps supporting me, I definitely will. Most likely my kids will play a role in this too, I want to stay in shape, and having 3-4 tournaments a year gives you a goal to practice for, and the kids still get to see you play!

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Daniel Doerr?

It depends on how much money you put on the floor! Before that, we will never know, Miles!

Thanks Dirk for the chat.

Karl Buhner Believes Jack Kayil(New York Knicks) Reached The NBA On Account Of His Ability Character And Work Ethic

A big basketball highlight I remember for me personally in the 2023-2024 season were actually 2 things. Being able to cover the Dragons Rhondorf Pro B title season as a writer and play by play commentator was really magical and fulfilling, but also being able to do the same thing with NBBL (U-19) team Young Rasta Dragons that season during the NBBL Top 4 tournament in Berlin was incredible. They had lost the season before in the NBBL final in Frankfurt to Alba Berlin on a real nasty buzzer beater by Nils Machowski and really wanted to win the dam thing and did in Berlin the next year. There were so many special players on that team that season like ex Skyliner Joshua Bonga or big center talent Johan Grunloh, or talented guard Jack Kayil (191-PG-2006) who had won his second NBBL title in a row or even blond big man Karl Buhner who did a lot of the dirty work and was the team´s best offensive rebounder that season. 3 years later all those guys have gone their own special journeys including Karl Buhner who landed in Paderborn and continued to make steps in his career in the Pro A. He saw how his teammates also went the next steps in their careers. He would play 1 extra season with Gruhloh who was touted as a NBA Draft pick, but then couldn´t have the type of season he wanted in the NCAA last season, but will attack again this NCAA season to becoming drafted. However Kayil and Buhners paths stopped in 2024 as Kayil went to Serbia and last season was a big factor in Alba Berlin finally winning the easyCredit BBL title again. 2 Years ago, not many would have thought that Kayil would be drafted, but he kept developing and his Draft stock really rose last season and was drafted by the Houston Rockets and traded to the New York Knicks. Buhner never doubted that Kayil would get drafted. “I was really happy that Jack got drafted. He always took on challenges and mastered them. He deserves it so much. He was drafted on account of his ability, character and work ethic. I always knew what he could do. He is a very special player and a good catch for the Knicks”, stressed Karl Buhner.

When Jack Kayil came to Vechta in late summer 2023, the player was already on the radar of Karl Buhner. How could Buhner ever forget how Alba Berlín had won the 2023 NBBL title with that buzzer beater from Nils Machowski? Of course Kayil gave his 2 cents in that big win with a solid 9/5/1/3 game in 21 minutes. “I remember how strong Jack already was for his age then. However his role and IQ wasn´t as big yet. You could see that he already had game then. I remember him making a huge poster dunk on us”, stated Karl Buhner. The two would become teammates in 2023-2024 and of course he remembers that first meeting with him and what his impression was seeing him on the court again. “He was a funny guy that was able to hold his own. He had a good character and was able to connect with all. On the court he already understood much. He made few mistakes, but was very controlled on the court. He was a strong scorer that knew how to direct the team. If you needed him at the end of a game, he could take control of the game. He also knew what to do at the right time”, said Karl Buhner. Many didn´t understand the move from the famous Alba Berlin to the smaller Vechta, but many tend to forget that the Vechta club was already very established and known for their youth program. “Maybe he saw more potential with us. He could play BBL and Pro A with us. He probably didn´t think he would get as much playing time with Alba Berlin in the BBL than in the Pro A with us. He probably felt going with the Pro A was simply the better move for him than the BBL”, stated Karl Buhner. After winning the NBBL title in Berlin, his self confidence must have been sky high for Kayil. “Jack was always a guy that sprouted with a lot of self-confidence. He simply knew what he could do. And what I really liked was that his success with Alba Berlin and that title over us never went to his head. He never rubbed it in when he joined us”, stressed Karl Buhner.

Pic credit: Frederik Kreyenborg

Kayil had a superb season with Vechta in 2023-2024 in the Pro A averaging 10.5ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 80.5% and scored in double figures in 19 games including a 31 point explosion against Duesseldorf and in the NBBL averaged 18.7ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.6apg, 3.8spg, 2FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 83.8% and scored in double figures in 11 of 12 games including 31 point games against Oldenburg and the Berlin Braves. How much credit did Kayil deserve for the success of Vechta in the NBBL? “He deserves a lot of credit. We had a deep roster and other strong stars like Johan Grunloh and Joshua Bonga. He had a lot of big games against Oldenburg and Hamburg. You could call him our glue gluy”, added Karl Buhner. He had one big strength already in Berlin that he of course took with him to Vechta. “Jack was fearless. He never got scared of the older guys on the court. He just did his thing and could always bring his game when he had to”, warned Karl Buhner. Buhner was able to see at close hand how Kayil´s offense grew that season as well as how his scoring average skyrocketed in the NBBL from 10-18 from Alba Berlin to Vechta. “He was already a good scorer with us and with experience that grew especially in the BBL. His self-confidence got better as well as his touch. In terms of his rise in scoring that had to do with his roles. I think that his role wasn´t as defined with Alba Berlin. There he was surrounded by older players and more scorers. In Vechta Jack was surrounded by talent, but not everyone always played in all the games. He noticed that and just did his thing and took responsibility when he had to “, added Karl Buhner. Even if Kayil was a prolific scorer, he was also able to make an impact then with his playmaking which has really grown in the last few years. “He makes really good passes now. He reads the pick and roll well and is definitely a difference maker now with his passing”, commented Karl Buhner. He also was a guy that was never reluctant to taking big shots. “He hit big shots for us in the NBBL and Pro A. I remember this crazy shot that he took in the Pro A. It was a turnaround shot off the dribble in a vital situation”, expressed Jack Buhner. He also showed his 2-way player assets as a youth player and it has continued to carry over to today. “His offense was always the focus, but he was always ready to defend. He had the right athleticism and length to defend at a high level. He always knew how to use his strength. I never saw him as a liability on defense”; warned Karl Buhner.

Even If Jack Kayil is the property of the New York Knicks at the moment and his big goal is to play in the NBA, there has been speculation recently that he may return back to Europe this coming season to get some extra professional experience before going to the NBA. Despite that one can always speculate a bit about where Kayil´s journey will go in the NBA. Are the Knicks a good fit for the German kid? “It is never easy to come to a title team. He has proven in the past that he is able to adapt well to new systems. His character will help him fit in. He knows how to prove himself”, warned Karl Buhner. Would a star player like Jalen Brunson be the perfect mentor for him? “Of course Brunson could be that perfect mentor. I know that Jack will soak up as much information as possible. I think that Jack is a better passer and defender than him. He will take that opportunity and learn as much as possible”, said Karl Buhner. Will he be just a vital role player in the NBA or be that key impact player? “I honestly feel like Jack could be an impact player in the NBA, if he keeps developing”, warned Karl Buhner. It has been more than 2 years since Kayil and Buhner were teammates and roommates, but the latter will never forget any memories he has simply because he has so many to chose from. “I remember one time where Jack lost a bet. He had to eat a hot chip and got really sick. We thought it was very funny. But he accepted it and went along with the joke. I also remember he had the ability to fall asleep with the light on. He left the door open and his Ipad on. We had to turn everything off. We had great times playing backgammon or just wrestling with each other. Leon Okpara was also always present. It was just so many great memories with Jack”, stressed Karl Buhner.

Winning The Fiba Masters Open Gold Was Fantastic For Daniel Lieneke But Bonding Together And Having Fun Is What Team Sports Is All About

Picc redit: Armin Cicic

Daniel Lieneke (200-F-1981) is a former German professional player that enjoyed a 20 plus career in Germany. He played most of his career in Paderborn where he played 9 seasons mostly in the second Bundesliga, but also played a season in the BBL. He also played 11 seasons with TV 1864 Salzkotten. He recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open winning the Gold medal and talked about his experiences in Greece.

Thanks, Daniel, for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. How did that come about?

The idea actually came about a year and a half ago at the German Over-40 Championship, where we played against Munich in the final. That was the catalyst: we put together a really strong roster, combining players from Munich, Paderborn, Salzkotten, Vechta, and several other cities. We took that team to the FIMBA World Championship in Switzerland and managed to win the vice-world championship title there. Since it was so successful, we made a few targeted additions to the roster this year, and that’s how we ended up participating in the FIBA Masters Open.

You retired years ago, but some years ago played with TV Salzkotten Second Team (Oberliga). Do you still keep in shape? In what kind of shape did you go into the tournament?

I was actually still playing for TV Salzkotten last season, which meant practicing once a week and playing a game every weekend. On top of that, I did some running, so I would say I went into the tournament in really great physical shape.

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

First of all, we played five intense full-distance games, but we definitely had some time in between to recover. We used that time to do some sightseeing, enjoy a swim in the sea, or just have some great food. So, it certainly felt a bit like a mini-vacation as well.

With guys 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

A huge advantage for us was that we were all in great shape. Everyone still plays basketball at least once a week and keeps themselves physically fit. On top of that, we met up for a long weekend to hold a training camp, where we focused primarily on our tactical preparation.

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

The conditions certainly weren’t comparable to the top professional league, but to be
honest, everything in Greece was quite modern, with a great wooden floor and air conditioning in the arena-which was a huge step up compared to our previous experiences in Switzerland and Italy.

. Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

Since this was the first FIBA World Championship in this age group, we had 12 teams competing in our Over-40 bracket, and the games were all very intense and played at a high level. The most well-known player from back in the day was definitely Nikoloz Tskitishvili from Georgia, who even spent several years in the NBA and gave us a lot of trouble in the semifinals.

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffan Hamann, Dirk Madrich Moritz Wohlers Omari Knox and Daniel Dorr. What was it like playing with them? Were you ever teammates with any of them?

We obviously knew each other from playing against one another back in the day, but it’s just a lot of fun to be on the court with such high-caliber former professionals. But it wasn’t just the well-known guys-every single member of the team was outstanding, both as a player and as a person. That really made us a cohesive unit.

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich Doerr and Wohlers?

It would be unfair to the others if I singled one of them out. Everyone was truly in a good condition. We didn’t have any injury issues, so everyone was in great physical shape across the board. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have been able to win this thing.

What was it like being teammates with 2005 Euro Silver medalist Steffen Hamann? He still seems to be in good shape isn’t he?

Steffen was an absolute leader not just on the court, but off it as well-he really took care of all the organizational aspects. It was an absolute pleasure to play alongside him and spend those ten days together on-site.

. You played against Stefen Hamann many times when you were with Paderborn. Do you remember some of those battles?

I have particularly fond memories of our last duel. It was back in 2010; Bayern Munich had already been promoted to the first division, and we were playing our last game of the season in Paderborn. We won the game at the final buzzer with a tip-in, which was obviously a huge highlight for us and a great way to end the season.

How did you present your game? How content were you with your game?

I was very satisfied with my performance. I went into the tournament in peak physical condition, had the full confidence of our coach, and I think I played the most minutes on average, which allowed me to make an impact on both ends of the floor. My shot was okay, although it could have been a bit more accurate at times.

What was the biggest challenge for a guy your age in this tournament besides the in shape aspect?

The biggest challenge, aside from the physical side, was undoubtedly the recovery time between games. And, of course, being away from my family for ten days-at our age, that definitely plays a big part mentally.

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn’t win this game?

Honestly, there were definitely some doubts around the start or middle of the fourth quarter, and they were well-founded. We started playing a bit headlessly, turned the ball over a few times, and unfortunately took some bad shots. At one point, you really had to wonder if we were going to lose this game.

Talk a little about the last play. Omari Knox made the last shot. How exciting was that play?

You have to look at the bigger picture here: Omari really wanted to win the game for us starting early in the fourth quarter, but he didn’t have much luck with his shot and probably missed five or six in a row. However, with 30 seconds left, he got a steal and actually had an easy one-on-zero layup. Instead of taking it, he pulled back, stopped at the three-point line, and hit the shot to tie the game. Italy couldn’t score on their ensuing possession, so Omari grabbed the ball for the final play. With three seconds left on the clock, he hit a really difficult three-pointer over his Italian defender, and it went clean through the net. In the remaining 3 seconds, Italy still had a chance to tie the game, but the shot narrowly missed the target. That was certainly one of the most exciting final stretches I’ve ever experienced in my entire career.

What was your own personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

Honestly, all of our plays were very well-tailored to everyone’s individual strengths. But naturally, one of my favorite plays was a set where I’d come off a screen from one of our big guys to get open and take the shot.

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal mean to you? Where do you rank it in your whole career?

I obviously rank this gold medal very highly. However, the 2005 and 2006 seasons were also incredibly successful when we won all 30 games in the second division and earned our promotion to the first division-that was an absolute career highlight, of course. I’ve also been able to win some hardware at the German Over-40 championships as well as picking up one or two Oberliga championships. Those were all wonderful achievements, though I would rank the FIBA Masters Open gold medal slightly above them, given its international significance.

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

That’s a good question. I’ll probably remember the fact that we were such a fantastic group. We didn’t just achieve maximum success; we also had a lot of fun together and bonded even more as a team during that time. That is exactly what team sports are all about.

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

That’s certainly not out of the question. I still love the game of basketball, and as long as my bones and my body stay fit, I can absolutely see myself doing this again.

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Daniel Doerr?

In the post, ‘Locke’ might win, but one-on-one out on the perimeter, he has no chance. He might see it differently, of course.

Thanks Daniel For The chat.

2026 Fiba Masters Open Champion Moritz Wohlers Knew That There Was A Risk Of Losing But That Was Never An Option For Germany

Pic credit: Armin Cicic

Moritz Wohlers (203-PF-1984, college: MSUB) is an ex German professional player that enjoyed a stellar 17 year career that took him to Scotland for 2 seasons with the Scottish Rocks (United Kingdom-BBL) and the rest was in Germany. He played his rookie season in the easyCredit BBL with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and also played with teams like Wolfenbuettel, FC Bayern Munich, Munchen Basket and MTSV Friendsfactory Schwabing. He played the longest with TSV Oberaching for 8 years. He also spent some in the USA with Benton Cons High School,Lewis & Clark Community College (NJCAA), McKendree College (NAIA) and Montana State – Billings (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the Gold medal in the Fiba Masters Open.

Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. How did that come about?

We play regularly together at FC Bayern Munich, where we’ve now won three German championships in a row. When we heard about the inaugural FIBA Masters Open, it sounded like an excellent competition, so we decided to organize a team. Since this was the first time FIBA had officially hosted the event, we were motivated to become the tournament’s first-ever winners.

You retired 4 years ago. Do you still keep in shape? In what kind of shape did you go into the tournament?

We normally play here at Bayern once a week in a open gym format. It was started as an over 35 team and as we got older we moved once up to the above 40s. Besides playing trying to stay active with other sport activities. This could be regular fitness training, hiking, tennis, paddle or anything that comes around. Having played a similar event last year for the first time, we all knew that we needed to be in good shape. So there was a bit more training and intensity in order to prepare for that many full games in a short period of time.

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

It was a great tournament and we all needed to take vacation from our regular jobs, so there was a mix of competitive basketball and a vacation character as well. On the off day we visited highlights of Athens and of course had some fun together as well. But we also tried to be as professional as possible doing regenration practice, had a physio with us and even did some Yoga 😉

With guys 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

The main core of the team plays together at FC Bayern but we also had some joining from other locations so we had really never played all together and needed to find together as a team quickly. I guess it helps that we are over 40 and all have a lot of experience in order to make it work. The other piece is of course to be in good shape to be ready for such a tournament.

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

The courts were really nice and almost all locations had video streaming so that the families, friends and fans could follow our games. This was really nice for all that could not travel onsite. In general the gyms were really nice but I think now a days the first league conditions here in Germany have an even higher standard. With the high temperatures the air conditioning was of course helpful.

Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

The group phase started with a tough team from Greece and we managed to win by 4 points. As we needed to come together we knew that the first game will be a difficult one for us. In general the Group stage was a good start for us and for the semi final and final the competition level really peaked! Probably the most famous player was former NBA Player Nikoloz Tskitishvili who played for Georgia which we faced in the semi final. He was still a tough match up, but we managed to overcome them in a tough game.

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffen Hamann, Dirk Madrich Daniel Lieneke Omari Knox and Daniel Dorr. What was it like playing with them? Were you ever teammates with any of them?

Some of them I know already for a long time. With Dirk I already played back in the day with the A2 National Team and for a long time I played for example against Omari and later together with him at Oberhaching. Overall the basketball World is very well connected and that is what it makes fun to play with these guys and there are connections in every direction that have grown over the years.

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich Doerr and Lieneke?

It is not for me to single one out, If I would ask them they all would say themselves. But I think this also shows the competitiveness of this team: Everybody came prepared in good shape and that is of course a big factor for the team success. It also helped to prevent any injuires, whihc we did not have.

What was it like being teammates with 2005 Euro Silver medalist Steffen Hamann? He still seems to be in good shape isn´t he?

As our captain he was leading by example by not only being in good shape! We play together once a week and of course it is a lot of fun to play with a player like him where you can also benefit of his style and level of play.

How did you present your game? How content were you with your game?

We won gold, so I am happy! Of course I wanted to bring and deliver all I got to help the team win, and I was happy with my contribution. But since we all had one common goal it was not really important to look at one individual. We knew we have many options as a team and all only wanted to win and this spirit I was the most happy about.

What was the biggest challenge for a guy your age in this tournament besides the in shape aspect?

Having full games, also back to back, the recovery is probably even more important than ever. In order to balance this with the aspect that we are not professionals anymore is a tough task to manage, but we managed quiet well.

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn´t win this game?

It was a very close game and very physical one as well. We were leading a long time, had a little draw down in the 4th quarter, but kept fighting as a team. Making the important stops, getting the right options and making good decisions. The risk of losing was there, but was not an option for us.

Talk a little about the last play. Omari Knox made the last shot. How exciting was that play?

I think for everyone that has not seen the match, they should watch the last 1:30min. We were down by 3 when Omari got the steal and went for a fastbreak 3 and made it. Afterwards we played a good defense, secured the ball and then I knew Omari had the confidence to close this game. The way he scored the last 3 was crazy!

What was it like being teammates with Omari Knox? What have you always appreciated most about his game?

He is a very humble person, but can really take over games. Back in the day he was at times a one man show doing everything, so I was really happy that we got him onboard. With his level of play and basketball intelligence it is always a lot of fun to share the court with him.

What was your own personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

I don´t think there was one play in particular. It was more the overall experience and how good we as a team worked together. It looks like we trained together for a long time and that was really the best feeling.

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal mean to you? Where do you rank it in your whole career?

I mean you have to put it into perspective: It is above the age of 40 competition, but who can call themselves World Champions? Of course it is different to playing when I was younger, but I am really happy that we achieved this success!

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

We created memories that will last: on the court and off the court even more! I think that is the beauty of a team sport of basketball and why we all love to play. Being together as a team, competing in a good competition, having fun, what can be better?

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

I think this was not the last tournament we played in. I mean we saw other teams play in other ages categories and it was really fun to watch. It had a unique Basketball character where Basketball generations around the world came together, which was very enjoyable.

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Daniel Doerr?

100% me – but Daniel probably has a different opinion.

Thanks Moritz for the chat.

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