nba

There Isn´t A More Grounded Player Than Juan Toscano-Anderson(Pallacanestro Trieste) Who Won A NBA Title And Was Teammates With Goats Lebron James And Steph Curry

Juan Toscano-Anderson is a 32 year old 198cm forward from Oakland, California that also has the Mexican citzenship and is playing his first season overseaswith Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy-Serie A). He began his basketball career with Castro Valley high school an dthen played 4 years at Marquette University(NCAA). He began his professional career in 2015 and played his first 4 pro seasons mostly in Mexico, but also had stints in Venezuela, Argentina and the G-League. In teh 2019-2020 season, he played 3 seasons for the Golden State Warriors and won an NBA title. He then added 2 more NBA seasons with the Lakers, Jazz and Kings. Last season he played with Capitanes de Ciudad de Mexico (NBA G League) averaging 16.1ppg, 7.4rpg, 3.7apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 84.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

Thank you, Juan, for talking to germanhoops.com You are playing your first season overseas with Pallacanestro Trieste. What kind of an experience has Italy been? What have you enjoyed most about the opportunity with them?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: Italy has been incredible. The country is beautiful, the league is very competitive. I just love living here. I think Europe is a very simple place. I think people still bask in the simplicity of life, which I can appreciate; it is much different than America, so I have been enjoying it.

As a guy who saw it all in the NBA and played numerous years in Mexico, how have you taken in the beauty and culture of Italy? And what have you learned to like most about this country?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I think what I like most is the scenery here. It reminds me a lot of California—the water, the mountains, the plants, and the greenery. The country is extremely beautiful. The food probably is what I like the most. I still appreciate Mexican food, but I think just the simplicity of the food without all the ingredients allows you to really taste the purity of the food, so I can appreciate that.

It is not usual for a guy to come overseas at age 32. What was your wakeup call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I think the age part is irrelevant. Everybody’s journey is different. Some people come over at 35, some people come over at 15. I think it was just the right time for me. After playing in the NBA and playing in Mexico, I was just trying out different things in this career; you never know what is going to work for you until you try it. I felt like my time in the NBA was done, so it was time to open a new chapter and try to do something different.

The team is in the middle of the pack in Serie A and battling in the BCL. How confident are you that this club has the potential to make the playoffs?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I am extremely confident. I think we have a really good team on paper. Obviously, that is just on paper, but Mike has put a really good team together. We have a new coach, a bunch of new guys—myself and Jahmi’us—who have never played in Europe before. We are still figuring a lot of things out, figuring out what works and what does not work. The best part is that we have been competitive. We haven’t won some games that we should have won, but that happens. I believe what I have seen in my career about the teams who are clicking at the right time. Obviously, we want to win every game, but we just want to put ourselves in position to have a chance to make the playoffs and then start to click when playoffs come around.

As you already said, you are a player that can pretty much do it all. What exactly is your role on the team?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I am still trying to figure that out as well. The best part of my game is the versatility, but I also think sometimes that comes with, but just figuring things out. Like, where do I work best on the team? What position? Because I can play multiple positions. So, how can I help the team the best? We are figuring out chemistry and figuring out who plays best in tandem together, and who I play best with. Still, I think my role is just to be a leader, to be competitive. Those are starters for me, and then everything else will come together.

Let’s go back to before your pro career. You played at Marquette from 2011 to 2015. You did not have a big role in those first three years but reached the Big Dance twice and made the Elite Eight in 2013. How valuable were these years in your basketball development, and what did you learn about basketball during these years besides winning?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: At that time, the Big East, I think, was the best conference in the country. We were sending 11 teams to the Big Dance every year, and were playing against pros every night. Pretty much every game was on ESPN. The concoction of everything is what prepared me for later in my career—just playing against big names, playing against great players, and playing in big arenas. It showed me not to shy away from big moments. Now I do not get nervous about big moments; I actually embrace them. It is a privilege to play in front of 20,000 people, a privilege to play in big arenas, against great players, and be in competitive leagues like the BCL. It was a great experience. I played alongside some pros: Jay Crowder was a senior when I was a freshman, Darius Johnson Odom, who also played here in Italy, and Jamil Wilson—just a bunch of names who were big names at that time. I learned a lot just playing at a high level.

That is so interesting. How crazy was that Elite Eight run? Marquette beat Davidson and Butler by a combined score of only three points, and then lost a tough grind out defensive battle against Syracuse 55 to 39. What is the first thing that comes to mind from that run?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: The first thing that comes to mind is when we played Davidson. I think we were down nine with about a minute left, and we actually came back to win that game. If you go back and watch it, it was incredible. I remember that I fouled when we were not supposed to foul with about 50 seconds left, but it ended up working out for us because it ended up being a benefit; I think the guy missed one of the free throws. It taught me just really understanding that the game is never over until it is over, especially at a high level where guys can make tough shots and execute at the end of the game. It was incredible. Playing in the Big Dance is great. I started on that Elite 8 team. That was a lot of fun, playing alongside great players and achieving something that a lot of guys will never do. You only get to be a college player for a short amount of time; unlike pro basketball where you can do something you missed out on at 26 when you are 35, you only have four years in college and once it is over, it is over. Being able to cement that and add those things to my trophy case are things that I will never forget. I have some cool rings that I can show my son.

You are writing your own story. What memories do you have of Jay Crowder as a freshman? Was he like a mentor for you, and how much of an impact did he have on you?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: Yes, he had a major impact on me. The impact he had on me was great because he never took it easy on me. He destroyed me every day, which at that time was really hard for me because I was an 18-year-old scrawny kid playing against an adult, an NBA pro, who was drafted and went on to have a great career. That is where I learned to be tough. That is where I learned to really compete and learned that when you are on the floor with guys, it does not matter what your age is or how old you are. If you step in between these lines, you are expected to compete at the same level as these guys. It really brought out that fire in me to be relentless on the floor and to understand that I do not have friends on the floor. If you are on the floor with me, regardless of your age or your year in your career, we are competing. It was great for me to really build those skills and habits.

That is a good mentality. How did head coaches Buzz Williams and Steve Wojciechowski prepare you best for a professional career?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: Buzz was incredible. I love Buzz; I still have a relationship with him. He was a tough guy; he did not take no for an answer. You were coming to practice every day to compete and you were bringing your best, and he brought the best out of his guys. I really love playing for him. Everybody has an opinion about who is the best coach, but I think when you are a coach and you can bring the best out of your players and get the best from guys every single day and get guys to play hard, that says a lot about you. He did that; he got the best out of his guys every year, every day. He sent pros to the NBA five years in a row: Lazar Hayward, Jae Crowder, Wes Matthews, Jimmy Butler, and Jamil Wilson—the list goes on. It was incredible; I really miss playing for Buzz.

Who won one-on-one in practice back in the day? You or Jae Crowder?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: At that time, Jae for sure. He was bigger and stronger than me. I was 18 years old, he was a senior, a legit pro, Big East Player of the Year. I was just a kid coming into my own, developing my body, and he was already developed. He was a legit pro, so I would give Jae the nod at that time. But now? I do not know by now.

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

Juan Toscano-Anderson: That is a tough question. It is tough because in the Big East, you are playing against pros every night. I would probably say Dion Waiters. He was the Sixth Man at Syracuse. They were a loaded team; they had guys like Scoop Jardine, Fab (rest in peace, he passed away), but they were an incredible team. I also played against Festus Ezeli, who ended up being a friend of mine because he played for the Warriors. The list goes on, but I would probably say Dion Waiters.

You really had to pay your dues in your first four pro seasons in Mexico, Venezuela, and Argentina. What did you learn in these years about surviving and what kind of player did you become?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I learned to just run your own race. Everybody is figuring it out. Even when some people think that they have it figured out in this business, you never have it figured out, because even if you are in the NBA, there are guys trying to get to the NBA who can come take your place. Even when you are in Euro League, there are guys playing in Serie A who are trying to get to Euro League. I learned to really just take every day one day at a time. Every experience is different, every coach is different, and every team is different. So, you really have to be fluid and be able to really adjust on the fly. Things change every day in this business. I learned to find patience and really taking it one day at a time. Finding a routine is essential because things will change every day. Travel changes, teams change, you may get fired, you may get hurt, or whatever. There are just so many variables that change, so you have to find continuity in your routine to find mental peace. That is what I learned, especially in those leagues where they are not the biggest leagues, they do not have the most money, and we do not have the most resources. You have to really find what works for you and how to get the best out of everything that you have. Also, just to be appreciative. Some of my best years of my career were at those times, and I learned about enjoying it. I remember a veteran, Matthew Brian Manning from the UK, who always told me during my rookie year when we were winning a lot, “Enjoy this because you may never experience this again”. That was one thing that I learned to do: really enjoy when things are going well, because you may run into some years of your career where you are losing and you do not accomplish all the things that you want to accomplish. So, just really finding peace and joy in the everyday.

Some things will never come back. You played numerous years with Fuerza Regia Monterrey and won two LNBP titles. Did the organization become like a second home to you? And what was so special about this organization?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: That organization is not like a second home to me; it is a second home to me. They embraced me with open arms. Sergio Gano, who is the president and owner of that team, really treats me like family. I have to show a lot of love to Paco. He is a Spanish guy who really helped me develop and prepared me for my opportunity in the NBA. He taught me how to play the game. When I met him, I was just a young, athletic, talented kid, but he really showed me how to read the game, how to slow down, and just how to let the game develop in front of you. Because there is so much happening on the floor; when you have the ball, there are nine other guys on the floor. I really owe him a lot; I know I do not technically owe him anything, but I just want to say thank you to him. He really helped me change my life, and most importantly, he was very patient with me. I was a young kid figuring it out, and so I have the utmost love and respect for the whole city of Monterrey, Sergio Gano, and Paco. They were just incredible and very pivotal in my growth in my career.

Do you miss those moments?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I miss it so much. Sometimes I wish I could go back. It is a crazy feeling because you know that you can never go back in time. I am glad that I took the time to really appreciate those times. Most importantly, I am glad that I was able to build relationships and bonds with the fans and the people of that organization to always feel welcome to go back. I know that I can go back whenever. I say that very humbly and very thankfully. I am glad that I was able to nurture those relationships and build that type of rapport there.

It is important to live in the moment. After paying your dues for four years, you then played three seasons with the Golden State Warriors and won an NBA title, only the second time for a Mexican player. Did you pinch yourself for three years? One could not have had more of a Cinderella story than you had.

Juan Toscano-Anderson: Yes. Honestly, I would walk into the gym every day in Golden State. It was crazy because I am from the Bay Area, from Oakland. Before moving to San Francisco, the Warriors played in Oakland, so I grew up a fan of the Warriors. I remember going to game two of the Finals in 2015 and watching Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson. For them to turn around and be my teammates and also my friends—I have a really great relationship with Draymond Green; we talk all the time—it is pretty cool to now just call these legendary Hall of Famers my friends and I can pick up the phone and call them whenever. It is kind of surreal. People always ask me what it is like to play alongside Steph Curry. I always say it is like when you. When you watch cartoons and they have the angels with all the doves and the lights around, when Steph Curry walks into a room, you feel it. He just has that aura about him because he was made to be great. Steph Curry is kind of like the Michael Jacksons, the Mike Tyson’s, the Michael Jordans, the Messi’s, the Ronaldos; you do not get to be around those types of people every day. It was really cool to be able to learn from those guys and also to play at home and win a championship, which was incredible. The championship parade was one of the best days of my life. I remember being on the championship bus and seeing so many people that I grew up with, people that I know, and realizing, “Wow, I am a part of this”. I won an NBA championship, but I am a part of something that means so much to the place that I grew up and where I was born and raised. It is an incredible part of my life, something I will never forget, and something I am super appreciative of.

You won the NBA title in 2022, playing four games against the Celtics. What does it mean to you being only the second NBA champion with Mexican citizenship? And is there a day where you are not reminded about it?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I think it is an incredible feat to make history, especially in a business like this. There are so many players in the world who are trying to compete at a high level. There is just so much turnover in this business; it is easy to be forgotten about. When you get the opportunity to make history and stamp your name so it will not be forgotten about, I think that is the most incredible thing you can do in this business. I try to hang my hat on that; it gives me satisfaction to know that I accomplished something big in my career. However, I am very competitive, and I always want more. We are all humans; we always want more. Sometimes I do forget about it, but on the rough days, I have to remind myself of what I have accomplished. There is so much that I can be thankful for in my career, whether it ended today or whether it ended in 10 years. Having the opportunity to play this game is enough to be thankful for; I think it is the best job in the world. To answer your question, yes, there are days where I sometimes forget about it because I get so lost in wanting more—wanting to do more, wanting another championship, wanting a bigger contract, wanting to go play for a bigger team. But sometimes you just have to slow down and bask in the moments that have got you to this point.

Not many guys can say they played together with Steph Curry and LeBron James. You played part of a season with LeBron James before moving to the Jazz. What will you always remember from your Lakers experience?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: Playing for the Lakers is crazy. I was lucky enough to play for two of the most visible teams in the world: the Lakers and the Warriors. The Lakers are on every social channel, every ESPN channel every day. But playing for the Lakers, nothing touches that. When you play for the Lakers, you immediately become a celebrity. That was really cool. There is a lot that comes with playing this game: nice cars, sponsorships, all these different things. Being in LA, being around all these famous people, being on stage at the ESPYs, doing a Nike commercial—all that comes with winning a championship and also playing for the Lakers and then playing alongside a guy like LeBron James. These are guys that I can call my friends. You do not get to see up close and personal how these guys live—the Messi’s, the Ronaldo’s, the LeBron James. Getting a peek into their lives was really cool because they do live different lives than normal people. Also, just to learn from them. I think people are born in a position to be great, but greatness does not happen by accident; they put in a lot of work. I was able to learn from these guys and watch how they take care of their bodies and watch their routines. I watched how they handle their business because we are all brands. The basketball portion is one part of it, but we are brands—sponsorships, the money, all this stuff. Being able to learn from the top of the top, the best, taught me a lot.

You also played with Utah, Sacramento, and in the G-League the last few years. What was your fondest moment off the court, and you must have had incredible interaction with legends through these years.

Juan Toscano-Anderson: My fondest moment off the court is hard to pick one, but generally, it is building relationships with all these guys. Russell Westbrook is an incredible basketball player, one of my best friends in the NBA, an incredible guy, and one of my favorite teammates. Now that I am not in the NBA, I take my son to the games, and my son is able to meet these guys. Instead of me asking for a jersey or a picture, I ask them to take a picture with my son or to sign a jersey for my son. I started a jersey collection for my son, so my son has LeBron James, Steph Curry, Russell Westbrook, Andrew Wiggins, and Klay Thompson—the list goes on. Having these relationships allows me to show my son greatness, for him to be around greatness. I think that is part of success, where it does not seem like a mystery; it seems very achievable, very tangible. I think that is the fondest part: having these relationships that I can nurture and call these guys my friends.

Who are your five best teammates of all time?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: In no order, because I do not want to put them in order. Draymond Green, Damian Lee, Gary Payton II, Russell Westbrook. I want to make sure I choose this last spot. I will give it to Steph Curry just because that is kind of a given; there is no way you can leave Steph Curry off there. The first four guys are the ones I am closest with in the NBA, or the relationships I built from the NBA. I talk to Damian Lee every day. I talk to Draymond Green three times a week. Those will have to be my five best teammates.

: Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore.

Juan Toscano-Anderson: People always get on me for this, but I am going to leave Michael Jordan out because I am too young; I have never seen Michael Jordan play live. I think it is easy to say guys are good when you are watching highlights all the time, so I do not put Michael Jordan. This is my top five for my age, to clarify that: Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Steph Curry, Shaq, and Tim Duncan.

Who is your GOAT?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: My GOAT is Steph Curry.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Should not they have left it alone?

Juan Toscano-Anderson: I have not seen the sequel, but Coming to America is such a great movie. I believe there is a saying in English: “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it”. If there is nothing wrong with the first one, sometimes you just leave it where it is at and allow people to appreciate art. I have not seen it, but if you are asking me that question, I probably do not need to watch it.

Thanks Juan for the chat.

Race Thompson(Legia Warszawa) Always Tries To Make The Winning Plays And Simply Enjoys All Parts Of The Game

Race Thompson is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Minesota playing his second professional season and first with  Legia Warszawa (Poland-OBL). Last season he played his rookie season with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) averaging 7.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 69.2%. he began his basketball career at Armstrong high school and then played at Indiana University(NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 130 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against the MLP Academics.

Thanks Race for talking to germanhoops.com. before we get into it, I have to ask you about your name Race. What was the inspiration for that name from your parents? You come from a very sporty family and your siblings are called Indigo and True. I can imagine sports had a lot to do with it?

My name was in a child name book from what I heard from my parents but we all have a unique name that being my siblings and I

You’re playing your first season overseas with Legia Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been and what have you enjoyed most about it?

It’s been a good experience so far. I have enjoyed my teammates and staff the most they were very welcoming and make it fun to come to the gym everyday. 

What was your wake up call overseas to being here for the first time where you knew that you were far away from home?

 My wake up call was going to the grocery store the first time and nobody spoke English and I couldn’t read any labels. My phone wasn´t working off wifi yet but I figured it all out now and it’s been smooth sailing. 

Legia is pretty crowded at the 3-4 positions. What exactly is your role on the team?

 I just try to make winning plays and be aggressive when the time is right doing what I can to help the team win that’s the main goal 

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

 I feel like I can do everything on the court and play whatever position is needed of me. I´m strong enough and fast enough and smart to guard all the positions I´m not sure who I would compare myself to 

You’re a athletic player that can do many things on the court. How developed would you call your versatility?

 There isn’t anything on the court I don’t think I can’t do. I can handle the ball post up shoot and pass and I enjoy all parts of the game. I can defend well and switch screens and such so that tells the story 

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. In the last 4 seasons including the NCAA, you didn´t reach the 30% plateau. Is there anything special your doing so you can become a more consistent shooter from down town?

 I think the last year my shot changed a lot. I was shooting at a high clip and ended up dealing with a shoulder injury that hurt the %. I’m very confident in my shot and I think people will see that part of my game more and more 

What kind of a defender would you classify yourself now overseas? What steps do you want to make most in your first season overseas?

 I just want to continue to show I can guard multiple positions 

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

 I’d say I work on shooting the most but I try to work on everything 

You played your rookie season with the Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) averaging 7.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 69.2%. What do you remember being your wake upcall to being a rookie where you knew that you were employed by an NBA team?

 I’d say I was awake to it right away. The Hustle share a facility with the Grizzlies so I knew the lights were on everyday at practice and it was an interview everyday coming to the gym. It was fun and I´m grateful for that opportunity 

How would you describe your rookie season in the G-League. You averaged 7/4/1 stats in 17 minutes. What do you believe was the most important thing that you learned in the G-League?

 I think the biggest thing I learned from that was to stay ready some games you’ll play a lot and some not so much if at all just continue to prepare like your going to play in the game stay ready so you don’t have to get ready 

How tough is it in general finding a rhythm on a G-League team where so many guys are coming and going, up and down minutes and certain guys being groomed for the NBA. How did you cope with the day to day concerning your game?

 I knew what the goal was for me and I had to produce when I stepped on the court. The coaches preached confidence in everyone’s game and that helped with staying ready when your name was called 

There was a span around the new year 2025 where you had 4 games in a row that were productive. What was your favorite game in the G-League?

 That stretch was probably my favorite games I was getting a lot of minutes and was able to showcase more parts of my game 

You were at Indiana University(NCAA) from 2017-2023 reaching 2 NCAA tournaments. Were these years some of the best in your life?

 Yes these were some of the best years. I made some great friends who are like brothers to me and learned a lot about myself during that time 

In your first 2 seasons at Indiana, your minutes went from 7 to 13 and in your third season went to 28. How vital was your 22/13 game in the win over Providence in your second game that season? Was that your real break through game in the NCAA? What memories do you have of that game?

 I think I had my break out game year prior but that was one of my best games and it gave my more confidence to keep working and thatI´m capable of a lot 

You reached 2 NCAA tournaments losing to St Marys and Miami. What memories do you have of those 2 runs?

 Everyone who likes basketball watches the NCAA tournament and being able to be a part of it was special even though it got cut short 

How did head coaches Archie Miller and Mike Woodson groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

 They both taught me a lot about basketball and made me a smarter player and helped me understand the game more. I´m grateful for both of them 

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA 2 that reached the NBA?

 Trayce Jackson Davis was the toughest player he was a problem for everyone in college 

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

 I don’t know if I can just name 5 but ill try with no order 

Trayce Jackson Davis , Armaan Franklin , Anthony Leal, Aljami Durham, Trey Galloway, Devonte Green,  Juwan Morgan. There are to many reallly good teammates to just pick 5 

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

My Mount Rushmore would be Lebron, Jordan, Steph Curry, Kobe and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

 My Goat is Lebron 

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

 Nah I didn’t see it

Thanks Race for the chat. 

Jahmius Ramsey(Pallacanestro Trieste) Will Never Forget His NBA Debut Battling Chris Paul Ánd Devin Booker And Thinking Dang I´m In The NBA

Jahmi’us Ramsey (190-SG-2001, college: Texas Tech) is a 24 year old 190cm guard from Arlington, Texas that is playing his first season overseas with Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy Serie A). He begna his basketball career at Mansfield Summit bhigh school and then also gathered expereince at IMG Prep academy, Oak Hill academy, Drive nation and Duncanville high school. He then played a season at Texas Tech University (NCAA) averaging 15.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 64.1%. He was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2020. He played his first 5 seasons in the NBA and G-League. He played a total of 39 NBA games with Sacramento and Toronto and in the G-League played with Stockton, Oklahoma City, and the Raptors 905. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Wurzburg.

You are playing your first season overseas with Pallacanestro Trieste. What kind of experience has Italy been so far, and what have you enjoyed the most about the opportunity with them?

The experience here in Italy has been a good one for me, both on and off the court. Basketball-wise, the play style is similar to college, which is great for me. Off the court, the food is amazing—bread and cheese here are the best ever. What I’ve enjoyed the most about this opportunity is being able to spread God’s word and His love through what He has blessed me to do.

You played your first five seasons in the NBA and G League. Is Europe now your number one goal, or could a return to the NBA still be realistic for you?

The NBA is still very realistic for me, in my opinion, and that’s what I’m working toward.

What was your wake-up call to being overseas—when you really felt that you were far from home?

Maybe the flight. It was extremely long.

How long?

Fourteen hours total. The longest stretch without a break was nine hours. And then, not seeing my wife for two months—that was hard. Those were probably my two wake-up calls.

Trieste is in the middle of the pack in Serie A and battling in the BCL. How confident are you that this club has the potential to make the playoffs?

I’m very confident. I like our group. We just have to keep pushing and keep meshing together on the court. But yes, I’m very confident—we have a really good group of guys.

You’ve needed no adjustment period, putting up very good stats in Serie A and the BCL. What is your secret to being so consistent right away?

Jesus Christ. He helps me go out there and do everything I do every night. It’s a blessing. He alone helps me be consistent and persistent in everything I do. All glory to Him.

How valuable has veteran teammate Markel Brown been in your adjustment period? Was he the guy who took you under his wing to help you overseas?

Oh—super valuable. Markel Brown has been extremely helpful. I just told him a practice or two ago that I’m watching him—meaning I like the things he does. He’s been here six years and picked up on tricks that help him perform well. Later he told me he did the same thing when he first got here, watching older guys. So having him in my first year here has been extremely helpful and valuable.

You played your first two NBA seasons with the Sacramento Kings as well as in the G League. After one NCAA season, you turned pro. What do you remember being your wake-up call as a rookie in the NBA?

My experience was totally different because we had COVID, so we went straight into the year. Honestly, my wake-up call came after I got cut—not necessarily in the first one or two years. That moment felt like my real wake-up call.

You made your NBA debut against the Phoenix Suns, scoring two points and playing against guys like Chris Paul and Devin Booker. What do you remember most from your debut?

I remember thinking, “Dang, I’m here. This is the NBA.” Looking back now, it feels different, but at that moment it was crazy—just realizing I was really in the NBA.

You had some notable teammates: Harrison Barnes, De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield. Which player in those two years had the biggest impact on you?

Honestly, all three. Buddy, Harrison Barnes, and De’Aaron Fox were all vets to me, each in different ways. Fox was like a role model—I watched him, learned from his routines. Harrison was like an older OG, asking me things like, “Did you get your extra shots in today?” And Buddy was like a friend-OG, making sure I was good outside of basketball. Me and Buddy live in the same city, so we have even more of a relationship.

You played your third pro season with the Oklahoma City Blue and were very consistent that season. Did you ever feel like you were close to an NBA call-up?

I think so, yes. But it’s all on God’s timing. As far as when I’ll be back in the NBA, I leave it in His hands and just try to do my part every time I play. He’ll do what I can’t do—give me the opportunity when it’s time.

In your fourth pro season, you mostly played with the Oklahoma City Blue but also had two 10-day contracts with the Toronto Raptors. What was it like being with the Raptors on those short contracts? Is it even possible to build relationships in such a short time?

Yeah, not anything super deep, but basketball works like that. Growing up, you go to camps, meet guys, then see them again later. Players get traded all the time. You kind of just know people. So it’s not foreign—once you meet someone the first time, the next time it already feels familiar.

Last season you averaged 20 points in the G League for the first time, but still no NBA call-up. Did you lose faith in the NBA process?

No, I didn’t. I put my faith in Jesus Christ, not the NBA process. So no, I didn’t lose faith in Him—I can’t. He is my rock, my everything.

You also played a season at Texas Tech University. What was your favorite game there?

That’s a good question—I have a lot of good memories. Maybe my favorite was against West Virginia at home, when me, TJ, and someone else all had 20-something points. Seeing my brother TJ get 20 with me—that was dope. I have many other great memories too.

How did coach Chris Beard groom and prepare you for a pro career?

Chris Beard is a great coach. He helped me mentally. His thing was “4 to 1” – a mindset about pushing through, no matter what’s stacked against you or for you. Just keep going.

Who won a one-on-one in practice—you or Kyler Edwards?

Me. I don’t even know if we ever played, but I’m picking me.

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

Tough to say. If we’re talking best career so far, probably Tyrese Maxey or Tyrese Haliburton. But in the NCAA at that time, I wouldn’t pick either of them as the toughest I faced.

Name your five best teammates of all time.

I’ll say Miller Kopp and TJ Shannon. I feel like I’d leave out too many guys otherwise, so I’ll leave it at those two.

And name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore.

Russell Westbrook, Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Shaquille O’Neal. I don’t love doing top lists because there are so many great players, but I’m good with that four.

Who is your GOAT?

Jesus Christ.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming to America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

No, I didn’t. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it.

Thanks Jahmius for the chat.

Basketball Globetrotter James Eads(Sabah BK Baku) Shooting Has Helped Him Carve Out An Illustrious Career Overseas

James Eads III (193-G-1997, college: Tuskegee) is a 28 year old 193cm guard form Orlando, florida playing his sixth professional season overseas and first with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). He began his basketball career at Edgewater High School and then embarked on a 4 year stay at Tuskegee University (NCAA2) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 101 games and as a senior averaged 19.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 69.7%. He turned pro in 2020 and has played in countries like Romania, Poland, Hungary and Taiwan. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks James for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan[1]ABL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about playing for this organization?

It’s been a great experience. Sabah is a very professional club and it felt good returning to the same club for the first time in my career

Last season you won the league title with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). How big is the hunger to repeat? Is the team as talented as last season?

There is definitely a big hunger to repeat being that Sabah has won the last three championships so we just want to keep the streak going. We truthfully might be a more well rounded team this year the team mesh’s wellThere’s

The team has 2 really talented guards with Americans with Hassani Gravett and David Nichols. What exactly is your role on the team?

I would say my role is knocking down shots and using my athleticism to help the pace of the team, and being a good defender as well

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would have to say someone like a Jimmy Butler

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet well. What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court?

My biggest strength is my ability to shoot the ball/ physicality

You always have been a solid three pointer. Last season you reached the 40% plateau and now shooting near 40% in the BCL. What has been key for reaching the next level as a shooter?

I try to always remain confident in my shot and abilities. That even when I’ve missed a few shots in a row or had a bad game or two in a row I still feel like I’m a great shooter.

Your also a very good defender. How have you seen your development as a defender overseas. What kind of a defender do you still want to become?

Coming overseas from college it was definitely a big learning curve of how to play defense in the European game but over the years I was able to get better and better. I still feel like there’s room to grow in pressuring 94 feet every game, every possession.

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

The area of my game that needs the most improvement is rebounding, that’s something I’m trying to be more intentional about.

Last season you beat Neftci in a 6 game finals series. You had many good games. What memories will you always have from winning the title?

I enjoyed our ability to regather ourselves and come together as a group to finish out the series. It was very cool moment winning that championship

You played briefly with New Taipei CTBC DEA (Taiwan-TPBL) averaging 24.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, 1.0spg. What was it like playing in the far east? What was the biggest adjustment for you on and off the court?

I really enjoyed my time in Taiwan! It was a nice place to live and the league was exciting to play in. My biggest adjustment on the court was the 48 minute game instead of only 40 minutes. I don’t think I really had any big adjustments off the court

You played the 2023-2024 season with NHSZ-Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (Hungary-A Division) averaging 12.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 78.4%. You won your first chip with the cup. How special was this title for you? The cup is such a special competition. How did you experience it?

It was really special winning the cup with all that the team went through that year. Even though we won the cup it would’ve been even better finishing out a real championship but we fell short in the finals to Falco

You split the 2022-2023 with 2 teams with King Szczecin (Poland-EBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 62.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 47.6% and with Rawlplug Sokol Lancut (Poland-EBL) averaging 13.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 73.9%. It was your second season in Poland. What did you learn about the business side of it that season?

That season taught me that not every situation or every season will be perfect but you have to remain professional and consistent in your approach.

You played your first season in Poland with Twarde Pierniki Torun (Poland[1]EBL) averaging 12.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT: 65.3%. You lost a tough playoff series against Anwil. What do you remember being the hardest thing to do as a team to try to win that series?

Trying to win on the road was the toughest challenge because Anwil’s fans give them a great home court advantage

You played your rookie season with CSM Galati (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 13.3ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 39.4%, FT: 72.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Getting off the plane in Bucharest and then not having phone service on the 3 hour drive to Galati. I was a bit shell shocked. My first year overseas was definitely rough but it prepared me for the rest of my journey

You were teammates in the second half of the season with American Drew Brandon. How vital was it having a vet like that as a rookie. What could you soak up most from his game?

Drew was a great vet when he came the team and we did a 180 and was able to make it to the playoffs. I think what I took from him was his approach to the game. He was very sharp mentally

You played at Tuskegee University (NCAA2) playing 101 NCAA 2 games. You were able tó improve your scoring and rebounding averages each season. Your game really grew in your last 2 seasons averaging 16.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 71.9% and 19.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 69.7%. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons?

I think it was really just my approach to the game, I wanted to be the best player in the conference that year and I think I accomplished that

You had so many great games in the NCAA 2 against schools like Albany State and Spring Hill. What was your personal favorite game there?

I think one of my favorite moments was the game I reached 1000 points. I think I needed around 27-28 points and before the game I told my teammates I was going to get it.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Travis Flagg?

Love him to death but he’s too small so I’d say me lo

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

At the D2 level there’s not many people that reach the NBA but Rodnerius Lewis and Tyrius Walker were some of the better players I played against

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Maurice Watson, Anfernee Simons, Myles Thomas, Demajeo Wiggins, Trevor Thompson

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Jordan, Kobe, Steph

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron is the best player to ever touch a basketball!

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

I think I seen it once, and I honestly don’t think it was that bad. Definitely not close to the first one but it’s a decent movie.

Thanks James for the chat.

Mike Mitchell Jr Powers The CATL Basketball Lowen In Crunch-Time Over The Skyliners Juniors 86-82 As A Little Bit Of Larry Bird Spirit Is In The Air

How different the season of the Skyliners Juniors could have been had they not had had injury woes in the first month and they had found a way to win games at home better (1-4). But that is all in the past as the team simply needs wins to get up higher into the standings as they were resting in 11th place. They met last placed Basketball Lowen Erfurt who were sitting in the Pro B cellar. Sometimes records do disguise certain things as this seemingly lowly team were first in points scored and rebounds, but that didn´t get them a medal as they allowed 93 points per game and were second in turnovers in the Pro B south. The team featured the always potent Paul Albrecht and talented German Musa Abra and work horse Noah Kamdem. The Skyliners Juniors came into the game with a 3 game losing streak and last weekend had found no offensive rhythm losing 70-61 against Langen. They were facing a must win in their own living room. Despite an incredible shooting clinic with 10 three´s and 35 points by the universal genius Ivan Crnjac, the Skyliners Juniors weren´t able to secure the win as the CATL Basketball Lowen won 86-82. Frankfurt had to put up with the strong big man duo of Albrecht and Kamdem and with Abra and Mitchell at the guard position and in the end it was Mitchell who made the game winner and free throws. “I felt like we played well as a team and hustled well. However our defense wasn´t always awake. It was tough defending against 2 dominant bigs and 2 talented guards. They showed what they could do on the court”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. They combined for 66 of the 86 team points. The CATL Basketball Lowen needed a win so badly and fought until the end with the great support of their fans who made the long trip. “It was an even game for the most part. Even when Frankfurt got a good lead in the third quarter, we never gave up. I think that we had the better energy at the end and were more active on the defensive end. Our fans were also a big help”, stressed Erfurt guard Musa Abra.

Samuel Nellessen with the runner

The Skyliners Juniors found their offensive rhythm quickly taking the quick 8-3 lead as Ivan Crnjac got going right away netting 5 points and getting a great feel for the rim. Frankfurt was sharing the ball nicely early. However it didn´t take the CATL Basketball Lowen long to punch back as American Mike Mitchell Jr. (188-G-2002, college: Minnesota) and veteran Noah Kamdem nailed three´s dead locking the game 10-10. A 9-0 Erfurt run gave them the 14-10 advantage as Frankfurt was reeling for something positive. The Frankfurt 1-1 defense was weak as they allowed way too many easy baskets. Frankfurt took a time out and struck back letting it rain three´s as Crnjac was in the zone as he knocked down 2 more three´s while Mr Energizer Dusan Nikolic also hit from outside as did Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak as Frankfurt had the 22-16 advantage. Frankfurt couldn´t hold the momentum as Erfurt struck back with a 7-0 run as young German Jordan Brand connected for a trey and Mitchell scored back to back mid range shots for the 23-22 lead. Frankfurt had one more chance before the quarter ended and Skyliner Junior Alvin Oniya literally pulled a Larry Bird. Back in a pre season game in 1986, Larry Bird hit a shot from behind the basket against the Houston Rockets in Hartford. Onyia did the same thing and saw nothing but net. “Fabrice Heberer made a shot like that this season in the Regionalliga. Kids don´t usually practice that shot at least I hope they don´t. You try a shot like that in the game of horse. A shot like that can always help push a team”, said Skyliners NBBL coach Thore Bethke. A big focus in the game was to control the boards and Frankfurt did that 12-10 while shooting47% from the field and 43% from outside while the guests shot 50% from the field and 44% from outside. The Skyliners Juniors had 4 turnovers and Erfurt 0. “The Skyliners Juniors didn´t have it easy without Joscha Zentgraf and Marvin Esser under the boards, but they did a pretty good job as a team. It was difficult containing Mitchell and Abra. We gave up too many easy baskets”, stressed Thore Bethke

Jamie Edoka from outside

The second quarter remained tight as both clubs continued to punch back and forth, but in the last minutes before the break, the CATL Basketball Lowen got away and led 50-45. The CATL Basketball Lowen did a good job closing down the lane and gave the Skyliners Juniors the three pointer and they responded. Crnjac continued to fire away making another while Nikolic and Jamie Edoka did as well, but the guests always had an answer getting a trey from Mitchell who was always aggressive and lay in´s from Abra and ex Rhondorf forward Samuel Nellessen to dead lock the game at 35-35. After Edoka and Mitchell traded three´s, it was the guests that took the lead as Germans Paul Albrecht who once notched a triple double against Lok Bernau and Luca Forster made lay in´s for the 43-40 Erfurt advantage. Frankfurt continued to have problems with their defensive intensity allowing easy buckets. Frankfurt kept battling back getting free throws from ex Neustadt forward Leif Zentgraf and a trey from Maxi Peters tying the game at 45-45. Erfurt punched back one last time closing out the second quarter with a 5-0 run as Abra hit a trey and Luca Forster made an off balance jumper with 0,8 seconds at the buzzer. “We had problems getting consistent stops. They continued to get easy baskets especially on Transition. Mitchell did a good job always pushing the ball”, said Thore Bethke. The CATL Basketball Lowen shot 47% from the field and 40% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 48% from the field and 42% from the three point line and had 21 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Musa Abra at the FT line

The Skyliners Juniors picked up their game at both ends of the court in the third quarter and led by as much as 8 points, but Erfurt fought back and trailed only by 1 point after 3 quarters. The Skyliners Juniors exploded to begin the second half going on a 11-2 run as Ivan Crnjac continued to have the hot hand nailing 2 three´s while Leif Zentgraf also dropped a trey and Crnjac also displayed his fine passing skills throwing up the perfect alley-oop lob pass for Jamie Edoka with the massive throw down and 56-52 lead. “They were giving the Skyliners the three. It was nice to see Ivan hit three´s again. It was a good omen for the game, because whenever he is on, Frankfurt has good chances to win”, stated Thore Bethke. After Mitchell found Forster for the back door bullet pass and lay in, it was Ivan Crnjac again who continued his superb shooting nailing 2 more three´s for the 62-54 advantage. However Frankfurt was unable to keep the momentum allowing a 9-2 run to end the third quarter and led only 64-63. Frankfurt had some annoying turnovers which led to easy transition buckets from Abra and Nellessen. Kamdem also made a difficult turn around shot while super role player Luca Forster connected on a clutch three pointer. “They had some nice highlight plays like that Edoka alley-oop dunk, but we executed well on offense and fought back to stay close”, commented Musa Abra. “We began well and hit the three well, but we had too many leek outs on defense and allowed easy baskets”, said Ivan Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 43% from the parking lotr and had 32 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the CATL Basketball Lowen shot 41% from the field and 32% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Ivan Crnjac from downtown

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as there were 9 lead changes as no team could get away form the other. Ex Skyliners Junior Noah Kamdem is always motivated to play his ex team and twice gave his team the 2 point lead with a trey and runner 70-68. Crnjac continued to be aggressive netting his 9th and 10th three pointers of the game giving his team the 74-73 lead. He finished the game with 35 points on 12/20 shooting. “The first ones felt good. It was good to get out of my shooting slump. We had an advantage because they gave us the three´s”, expressed Ivan Crnjac. After a Kamdem trey, it was Smazak that connected from outside for the 77-76 lead. Young German Musa Abra who has improved his play each season in the last 3 in the NBBL and Pro B has become a real go to guy and showed it in crunch time with a trey and lay in for the 81-79 Erfurt lead. “I showed responsibility. My drive was working well. My team has a lot of confidence in my game. My confidence keeps growing from game to game”, said Musa Abra. Smazak continued to be aggressive and confident in his shot as he hit a trey to tie the game at 82-82. Mitchell then punched back with a 20 footer for the 84-82 lead with 36 seconds to play. Erfurt then stopped Crnjac and Mitchell clinched the win with free throws. “We were very aggressive and had more energy. We were all active on defense and had good pick and roll defense”, stressed Musa Abra. “We could have had better looks at the end. We aren´t that good yet at closing out games. We are a young team. We have to work on that”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. The CATL Basketball Lowen were led by Musa Abra with 21 points. Mike Mitchell Jr. added 17 points and Noah Kamdem had 15 points while the Skyliners Juniors were led by Ivan Crnjac with 35 points while Jamie Edoka added 10 points. The CATL Basketball Lowen shot 41% from the field and 33% from outside and had 51 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 42% from the field and 37% from outside and had 41 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Mike Mitchell JR(CATL Basketball Lowen) Has Always Had The Luxury To Have Had The Perfect Role Carved Out For Him To Excel Wherever He Has Played  

How famous is the line, if you don’t succeed at first then try try again. I have heard it a lot in my life time. The phrase is simple in that it suggests perseverance in that one should learn from set backs and keep pushing until success comes. It is as easy as that and there have been so many examples over time of athletes that have experienced this. Superstar NBA players lIke Dennis Rodman and Carmelo Anthony weren´t big prospects in high school while MLB superstar Orel Hershiser was cut from teams in high school and college while the GOAT of soccer Lionel Messi was so short as a youth that he was also cut from a junior team while Football Goat Tom Brady was far away from a superstar route as he was only drafted in the sixth round of the NFL draft back in the day. I could list many more examples as these kind of Cinderella stories are told all the time. For overseas rookie Mike Mitchell, this phrase fits perfectly to him. He is a player that didn´t have success with his first stop overseas in England, but since coming to Germany has proven to be a top player in the third league Pro B. He began the season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom SLB) where he only played 4 games averaging 3,5ppg and 2,0apg in 16 minutes per game. Coming overseas and getting adjusted isn´t always easy especially when your all alone and sometimes things just don´t work out. “I had no family or friends there. I had always been used to having them around. I just wasn´t able to crack the rotation. I had good minutes, but I just didn´t do enough. It was a great organization. It just wasn´t the best fit at the time”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr. (188-G-2002, college: Minnesota). He is a player except for that one time in Leicester that has always had the luxury to have had the perfect role carved out for him to excel wherever he has played.

The California native who lists NBA player Terrence Shannon Jr as his toughest opponent that he has faced in his career so far and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander as his GOAT was born in San Jose, California on July 2,2002 and comes from a sporty family as his dad was a stand out football player at Stanford. He got a lot of early basketball experience playing at Archbishop Mitty High School and AAU with West Coast Elite, Oakland Soldiers and Team Arsenal. In high school he was a 2 time MVP of the West Coast Athletic League. He then proceeded to play at Pepperdine University (NCAA) averaging 9.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 36.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 69.6%
and 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 76.2%.He played for head coach Lorenzo Romar who was very influential in his early basketball development. “Coach Lorenzo was simply everything for me. I committed to go to Pepperdine because of him. He is the reason why I have been able to produce in Germany and wherever else I go in life”, stated Mike Mitchell Jr.. He played a total of 61 NCAA games and scored in double figures in 32 games. He had many great games like against USF netting 22 points or having San Diego´s number twice in his second season scoring 20 and 19 points. Unfortunately in losing causes. It wasn´t any games that he remembered most in those 2 years, but rather something else that tickled his heart. “My teammates and practices. Even if it didn´t translate into many wins, I found friends for life”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He then moved on to the University of Minnesota averaging 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 80.6% and 8.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 70.6%. Making a move like this was only logical. Who doesn´t want to challenge themselves more in the Big 10? “Every player wants to be able to compete at the highest level and see how well they can do against the top players. I proved I could compete at the highest level”, expressed Mike Mitchell jr. He helped his team reach the NIT Sweet 16 in 2024 where he aided in the big 73-72 win against Butler. “It was a great experience. We were 1 win away from the Big Dance. It hurt a lot not making it. I have great memories there that will forever remain in my heart”, said Mike Mitchell Jr.. He had many great games at Minnesota like beating Michigan twice scoring 18 and 20 points in nail bitter wins. Did he enjoy one win more than other? “The second year when I had 20 points. The fans stormed the court and Michigan was ranked in the top 15. That win put us on the map”, remembered Mike Mitchell Jr.. In his 2 years there, he scored in double figures in 27 games of 59 games. He had the luxury of having had legendary head coach Ben Johnson who prepared him for the overseas grind. “He treated me like a pro and coached me like a pro. He got me ready for the moment”, added Mike Mitchell Jr. who never played teammate Lu Cye Patterson in 1-1, but if he did would take himself.

The explosive scorer who lists Houston Mallette, Elijah Hawkins, Dawson Garcia, Pharrell Payne, and Femi Odukale as his 5 best teammates of all-time has found a new home overseas in Erfurt with the Basketball Lowen. He has needed no time to adjust as simply everything has fit. “All have been very welcoming. It feels like a family. I like my role here. I play a lot”, said Mike Mitchell. It all started well when he arrived as the team won 2 of 3 games, but since have suffered a 5 game losing streak. Is the team missing some depth from the bench as well? “I think the biggest problem have been defense and turnovers. We averaged more than 20 turnovers. We have to clean that up and defense. You can always say that concerning the depth, but we beat 2 of the best teams. I feel like we can beat anyone as well as lose to anyone”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. The Lowen have a great mix out of experience and youth. He has the ultra teammate with veteran Paul Albrecht who gives versatility a new meaning while with Musa Abra has a young German teammate that won a silver at the U-19 World Cup last summer. “I try to soak in as much as possible from Paul´s daily approach to the game and his work ethic. Musa and I mesh well together. I see a lot of my younger self in him. He has a lot of potential. I hope to help him progress further with his game this season”, commented Mike Mitchell Jr.. On the court he has needed no time to adjust as through 8 games he is averaging 20,9ppg, 4,9rpg and 4,0apg and 2,6spg. All he needs is the right role and then he can produce the way he knows how. “I feel like I had a really good summer of training. I progressed a lot last summer. I have had success everywhere I have played and that is because I always had the perfect role carved out for me to excel. I rise to the occasion”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He ripped apart Oberaching for 38 points while netted 28 points against Ludwigsburg and 27 points against Dresden.

So what kind of game does the ex Pepperdine guard who names Lebron James, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore have? He is a 188cm guard that likes to watch a lot of film on CJ McCullum and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander. He focuses on utilizing the mid range game and reading the pick and roll. He fills the stat sheet well and has 3 vital attributes that help him be the absolute best offensive player possible. “My ability to pass, shoot and dribble. I feel like now adays it is rare to have all 3. I feel these are winning traits”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He was a great three point shooter at Pepperdine shooting 40% in both seasons from outside and at Minnesota shot 35%. He understands how he can transform his good shooting in the NCAA to overseas. “I have always been a good outside shooter. I feel like with me it is all about shot selection. I just need to take the right shots”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. Despite putting up first class stats in the Pro B, he is always working on his game as he wants to continue to move up the basketball ladder overseas. At the moment, I´m focusing on most on strength, efficiency and defense”, warned Mike Mitchell. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop overseas. At the moment he is taking it day by day with his game and game by game with trying to help his team get out of the hole at the bottom half of the standings. He has won at the NCAA level and has carried the winning traits overseas. Now it´s all about starting to win some games with the Basketball Lowen.

Jeff Garrett Knows That Sticking To Their Identity Was Key In Crunch-Time For The Telekom Baskets Bonn Being Able To Defeat The Skyliners 88-76

Jeff Garrett is a 31 year old 201cm forward playing his 7th professional season and first with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played the last 2 seasons with the Niners Chemnitz winning the Fiba Europe Cup. He also has vast experience overseas having played in Lithuania, Ukraine, Finland and Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at Oldsmar Christian high school in Florida. He then played 2 NCAA seasons with Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) and in his last season played with : Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 18.8ppg, 14.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6bpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 75.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 88-76 win over the Skyliners.

Congrats on the big 88-76 win over the Skyliners. How good does the winning streak feel?

Thanks for the wishes. The win feels great. The win against Frankfurt put us in good position in the standings. But despite our win and current play, we aren´t satisfied. We know that we can play better. Any win in the BBL is big and Frankfurt is a good team.

You won the game by 12 points. The last 3 wins were all very tight. Would you classify this win almost like a close game simply because the game was so tight for 30 minutes?

Yes absolutely. It came down to a few costly possessions. The game felt closer than what the score indicates.

Bonn had the tight 21-20 lead after 10 minutes. That first quarter was a classic back and forth. Nobody led by more than 2-3 points. Did you have a feeling the game would continue like that? Sometimes that first real run happens in the second quarter.

I have to be honest. I wasn´t surprised that the game would remain close. We have had so many dog fights this season. The only real blow out was the cup loss to Trier.

Frankfurt let it rain a few three´s to start the second quarter, but the Telekom Baskets Bonn always had an answer and would lead 39-36. What was your impression of Frankfurt? How much different of a team are they then last season where they really struggled?

There is a different aura with Frankfurt this season. They have a winning spirit this season. Last season it was more of a fighting spirit. I think that their success starts with their good guard play.

Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run to begun the third quarter, but Bonn punched right back with a 8-0 run.  No team could get a way from the other as Bonn led 57-55 after 30 minutes. What did coach Marko Stankovic tell the team to do in the fourth quarter?

He had the same message as before the quarters before which was keeping the focus and sense of urgency. A big focus going into the fourth quarter was using our fouls correctly.

Bonn finally went on a run of 10-0 which got you in great position to win the game. What was key in the run besides the three falling to get the comfortable 78-65 advantage?

I feel like we increased our focus and took care of business on defense. We executed well on defense and got stops which led to transition buckets.

In the run Zac Cooks scored 5 points in a row. How key was it getting that kind of production from him? He has had a tough season so far.

It was big for him. I´m happy for him. This season hasn´t been easy for him. He was hurt and still needs to figure things out on the court. His paly against Frankfurt was definitely a confidence booster for the game against Trier. He knows that he still has it.

As a veteran do you talk to him about his season and situation with having a lesser role than in Jena or Austria?

I speak life into every player here. I don´t want to overdo it, but try to help. I tell him to score first at times and pass first. I try to give him confidence and share my experiences. He takes in my advice. He is a great player and person.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn then managed the lead well to the buzzer. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night?

I think that our biggest strength was simply sticking together. We could of easily lost focus and lost our fighting spirit. It was just a matter of who wanted it more. We stuck to our identity which is to play hard and physical.

It was the third game in a row where Frankfurt lost without top player Jaedon LeDee. Does a severe loss like that sometimes effect a team mentally especially in crunch-time?

I think that could of come into play for them. Maybe they thought that they were less without him. I mean he is the best rebounder in the league. With him, there may have been 2-3 extra possessions or a few baskets more. He gives that team so much energy. But then again one can´t forget that injuries are a part of the game. You need to be able to adjust.

What was it like battling a Swiss army knife like William Christmas? Isn´t he the kind of player everyone wants on your team and hates playing against?

Yes absolutely. Will is a great guy. I just laugh when I think of him. He is a true professional and character. He is the first guy in the gym and last to leave. He has so much potential to still become better. He can do it all on the court and brings a little bit of all on the court especially on the defensive end.

How key were guys like Alijah Comihier and Tylan Birts for the win? What do you enjoy most about their games?

They are my guys. Both are great players. I see them being able to play at higher levels in the future. Each guy brings something different to the team.

Your currently averaging 11/4 stats and shooting 34% from outside. How content have you been with your game?

I´m not content at all. I have more to give. I´m still trying fill my way here. It is tough because I´m an unselfish player and sometimes I get out of my comfort zone. I know I am able to put up better numbers, but it has been sort of a roller coaster season for me. I´m trying to figure it out day by day.

What exactly is your role this year with Bonn? Is it similar to what you had in Chemnitz?

It is similar to Chemnitz. But now that I´m in year 7, I have to be constantly vocal. That wasn´t the case in Chemnitz as we had many experienced players. I´m one of the voices in Bonn. I´m aggressive at both ends of the court.

You recently turned 31. What steps with your game do you want to take this season with Bonn?

I want to get to the free throw line more. I got away from that the last years mainly playing in a system where I was more on the perimeter and was spaced out. I need to be in a situation where I can go downhill more and post up.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn now are 6-4. The team has been up and down, but playing good ball as of late having won 3 of the last 4 games. What is vital for the team now to keep this winning streak going?

We can´t get complacent and relax now. We have to understand that we can lose to anyone in the BBL. We have to stick to our identity and hopefully stay healthy.

The next game is against Trier who have been the big surprise of the easyCredit BBL. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to remember the feeling we had when we lost to them in the cup game. We can´t perform like that again. We have to take care of business right away.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Xmas time in Germany?

I like to cling to the Christmas markets. I don´t like when they are overcrowded. I like to be able to move freely with my family. Christmas is my favorite holiday. It is a time to give and be with the family and have peace. I love to spend time in the house and watch Christmas movies with the family.

Do you have any new years resolutions?

I don´t really have one. I just aim to be a better version of myself than the year before. I want to be a better father, husband and player than the year before.

Thanks Jeff for the chat.

Radii Caisin(Skyliners) Will Always Have Great Stories Having Played With Franz Wagner Ariel Huckporti And For Tuomas Iisalo

Radi Casin is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing the 2025-2026 season with the Frankfurt Skyliners. He played the last 2 seasons with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3%and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. He played parts of 4 seasons in the easyCredit BBL with teams MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, MBC and Crailsheim. He played 3 seasons in the Rasta Vechta organization. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Radii for talking to germanhoops.com. You have a special NBA connection. You played with Ariel Huckporti, for Florian Hartenstein who´s son is NBA champion, you were teammates with Franz Wagner, you played for Tuomas Iisalo and another connection is Haywood Highsmith. Did I miss anyone? Is there another person I forgot?

no I think that’s everybody.

How special is that for you having had the opportunity of meeting so many people in the basketball world that have reached the highest level?

I´m happy for all these guys that they fulfill their dreams!

Congrats on joining the Frankfurt Skyliners. What were the main reasons for joining the Skyliners?

The main reason was development. I think that it is a good spot to get better and grow.

How did the talks go with Klaus Perwas? What do you appreciate about the world champion coach?

The talks were good. Easy and direkt. We were talking about the past season, the future for the team, his vision and questions about me

What do you believe is your lifetime record against Frankfurt?

Honestly I don’t know,but I’d guess something like 5wins 2 losses

What memories do you of the BBL games against Frankfurt? Your record was 4-2. You had 10 points in 12 minutes in a MBC win

I always remember the big arena with the colorful seats. Also my first time playing in the big arena in the JBBL Final Four.

How is your game better now after 2 years experience in Austria?

I think in general it got better in all aspects. Maturing and also being in a new position counting as a foreigner and being in a different position.
Basketball wise I think the most improvement was the shot

You never averaged more than 3,3ppg in the easyCredit BBL. How confident are you that you will have your break through season with Frankfurt?

I think I learned a lot in Austria over the past 2 years and I’m working a lot to make a step forward

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a tall 201cm shooting guard. If you had to prepare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description.

Maybe Vladimir lucic

You have always been a versatile player. How well defined is your versatility at the moment and where do you still want to go with your all around game in the next years?

Basically I want to get better in all aspects. But the biggest focus goes into shooting and finishing. The goal is to get better and Grind and to climb the ladder.

How would you describe the development of your three pointer? Is it fair to say that it is still a work in progress?

I think it still can get better. Unless you’re shooting 100% you still can improve.
From the first to the second season was an improvement and I’m training to improve more now

You averaged 6,0 rebounds per game in Austria. How vital is your toughness to being a good rebounder?

I think rebounding is no rocket science. It´s just will and rebounding is very important to give no 2nd chance points. On the other side is very good for your own team to get more offenses

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

I am a solid defender that wants to become a very good defender! Also there I can improve and make a step forward.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you will be prepared for your 5th BBL season?

.Like I allready mentioned right now the shot and the ballhandling. But also a big focus is on the athletic part trying to be more explosive and to jump higher

You played the last 2 seasons with the BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5(1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3% and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. How key was head coach Stefan Waser in your basketball development in Austria?

I think he helped me a lot. Just starting by putting me in this situation. Trusting me but also leading me. Teaching me trying to make no mistakes and leading the team.

What was it like being teammates with Christian Von Fintel? What were you able to learn best from his game?

I learned more from him about mindset, willpower than basketball attributes. He is a great player and good defender and basketball wise defensively you can learn something!

How tough was the playoff series loss to BBC Nord? You gave all you had scoring 35 and 31 points in 2 of the 4 games.

It was very tough. We had a great team and were planning on making it further than only first round. But from that series I learned a lot.

You played 2 seasons and 59 BBL games for the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (BBL). How were these 2 years for you?  Do you feel like you got a fair chance there?

Of course as a player you want to play. So if you don’t play you’re not really happy.
I’d say for me personally they were stagnant.

You had some great teammates in Weissenfels with guys like Tremmel Darden or John Bryant. Which player had the biggest impact on you?

Like you already mentioned these are some great guys with great careers.
But from Tremmel you can learn a lot. Being his age and that much in shape working everyday consistently is outstanding. From him you could learn a lot

You played a season with the  HAKRO Merlins Crailsheim (BBL) averaging 2.6ppg. What was it like playing for Tuomas Iisalo? If someone had told you in 2021 that he would be coaching in the NBA in 2025 what would you have thought?

Playing for him was very intense. His playstyle is very demanding, but this is what makes him successful. I learned a lot from him! Would I thought he make it that quick. Not necessarily. Am I suprised. Absolutely not. He knows what’s he’s doing and working hard to make the team successful

You played your first BBL season with the  MHP RIESEN Ludwigsburg (BBL) and played 14 games. How tough was it playing for John Patrick? What did you learn about basketball and business that season?

It was a tough season for me. First time coming fully in that Pro position and seeing the business side of it. Basketball wise defensively you can learn a lot. Playing aggressively all five players!

What memories do you have of Ariel Huckporti. Did you see the NBA coming for him then when you saw his development in the NBBL?

In general Ariel is a funny guy. We shared so many stories back then.
Yeah sure. He’s a big dude. Strong,skilled at that age was outstanding

After starting your basketball career with TK Hannover, you played 4 years in the Rasta Vechta organization. How important were these years in your early basketball development? Did you have a mentor in those years?

That step going to Vechta so young was very important, because that meant it’s all about basketball everyday. Practice and get better all the time. My mentor there was Hanno Stein. He was the one that brought me there and was taking care of me. Any kind of problem or whatever, he was helping me whereever. And let’s not forget the many hours working out!

You played for Florian Hartenstein in the NBBL team. His son is NBA champion now. How special is it having that connection?

I think it’s special. Just because his own son made it so he knows what’s he’s doing and what it takes. He spent much hours in the gym. He was also around the team sometimes, so there you could see and learn

You played the U-16 euro with Franz Wagner in 2016. In 2018 he was NBBL champion. How do you remember his game in 2016? Would you have predicted such a big rise in his career in the next years?

I think he grew a lot late in his age. This helped him a lot, but I think mainly playing at his young age good minutes on high level helped him tremendously. I’m not surprised he made it that far

Who is the toughest player that you ever played against that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I think Wade Baldwin was very good player. His athleticism is on another level

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

TJ Bray, Ariel Hukporti, Nick Babb, Trae bell Haynes, Franz Wagner

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore? That means your 5 best players?

Russel Westbrook
Kevin Durant
Paul George
Kobe Bryant
Isiah Thomas

Who is your GOAT

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Radii for the chat

Kenny Goins(Trefl Sopot) Remembers Miles Bridges And Xavier Tillman Working Harder Than Most So To Keep Up They Pushed You To Work Harder

Kenny Goins (201-PF-1996, college: Michigan St.) is a 29 year old 201cm forward that is playing his sixth professional season and first with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL). He has gathered valuable experience playing in countries like Italy, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Mexico, France and New Zealand. He began his basketball career at Warren Mott High School. He then played at Michigan State (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 131 games and in his last season averaged 7.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 72.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Fiba Europe Cup game against German team Rostock Seawolves.

Thanks Kenny for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your 7th season in your 8th country. Do you feel like the ultimate basketball globetrotter?

I definitely feel honored to have traveled and seen as much of the world as I have.

Your playing your first season with Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL)What kind of an experience ha sit been so far? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a great experience both on and off the floor and I’m excited for the next few months.

Congrats on reaching the next round of the Fiba Europe Cup. The club has won 2 titles in the last 2 seasons. Do you sense a special culture in the organization in terms of having that will to win?

It definitely feels like the front office knows how to win it and we feel like we have the tools to do it.

What kind of a role do you have on the team? You are a guy that is very versatile. What special assignments do you have when you step on the court?

I feel like I try to fit in where I’m needed per game. It’s not always the same assignment.

You have never been that scorer in your career, but always can if needed. Are you a type of a Swiss army knife?

I try my best to win and it usually isn’t scoring that is lacking.

You played last season with the Manawatu Jets (New Zealand-NBL) averaging 10.7ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, BPG-5 (1.5), FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 70.6%. How vital was this experience coming off a tough season in France?

It was nice to pick it back up in a bigger role after a bit of time off with the birth of my child.

You played the 2023-2024 season with Limoges CSP Elite (France-Betclic ELITE ProA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.8rpg. You had 2 good games in wins over Nancy. How tough was this season? What did you learn from it?

It was tough as a personal experience playing a lesser role in a minutes sense but I still tried my best to stay ready and active when I had my chance

You were with Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys (Lithuania-LKL) only in pre-season in the 2022-2023 season and then finished the season with Correcaminos UAT Victoria (Mexico-LNBP) averaging 5.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP-3 (68.8%), 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 84.6%. What kind of an experience was Mexico? It is a rising league isn´t it? Americans like playing in Mexico.

I would say it’s nice because it’s close to home and a much more familiar culture being so close. It is a tough league physically and talent wise as well.

You split the 2021-2022 season with GS Lavrio Aegean Cargo (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.6ppg, 3.9rpg: and in Dec.’21 moved to Atomeromu SE Paks (Hungary-A Division) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 28.6%. How did you experience Greece the second time around? Why was it a short stay?

Greece is always a good league to play in. It just wasn’t a fit for the team and me. I don’t have any hard feelings as I was able to play better in Hungary personally.

You finished the season strong in Hungary. It was another stamp in your passport. How do you remember Hungary? Is it a place where you would play again?

I can’t ever say I won’t play anywhere given my past.

You played the 2020-2021 season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-A1) averaging 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 63.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 71.0%. Despite Covid being there, you had a successful season. You had an incredible 34 point explosion against Aris. Was that one of your best pro games?

That was definitely one of my best pro games. I think outside of the offense, it was a well rounded game and even more important, a win in a needed part of the season.

You were teammates with top defender Kevin Tumba. Was he a guy where you could soak up some of his defensive qualities?

He was a menace in the paint on defense.

You played your rookie season with 2B Control Trapani (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.5rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 73.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think every pro experiences the lack of foul calls compared to domestic players and that was the first time I really had felt some sort of difference consistently.

You spent some time with Denver at the NBA Summer League playing 1 game scoring 8 points against Houston. What memories do you have of that time? What was your coolest moment there? Did you meet any NBA legends?

It was a great experience to see how basketball at the top level operates and just be a part of.

You played at Michigan State from 2015-2019 playing a total of 131 games. In your first 3 seasons you averaged 2/3 but made a huge jump in your senior year averaging 7.9ppg, 8.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 72.9%. How did your game grow in the NCAA?

The confidence became much more apparent and trusting my own skills

You played 2 seasons together with future NBA players Miles Bridges and Xavier Tillman. What memories will you always have from them? How did they help make your game better in the daily battles in practice?

They were always great to compete against. They worked harder than most people I know so to keep up they pushed you to work harder.

You won 2 BIG 10 titles. Which one was sweeter?

You can never compare one from the other because I’m proud of both.

You reached the Elite 8 as a senior. What memories do you have of the big 68-67 win over Duke where you had a 10/9 game and faced Zion Williamson who had a big 24/14 effort in the loss.

All good ones. Feel like I can remember every play my teammates made as much as the shot I made at the end.

How did head coach Tom Izzo groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He always pushed you to be better than you were the day before. So the work ethic is always instilled in you.

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

Probably Caleb Swanigan

Thanks Kenny for the chat.

The Harris-Dyson-Mejias Show Propel The Dragons Rhondorf To Upset 91-84 Overtime Win Over Lok Bernau

The season of 4-7 Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf has been in a free fall in the last weeks after their solid 3-2 start. The club has totally lost their rhythm having lost 5 of their last 6 games. Giving up points and rebounding continue to be a massive problem for the young troops of head coach Max Becker. The Dragons had 3 tough games before Christmas and they didn´t want to move further down in the standings. With Itzehoe and Neustadt awaiting them in the next weeks, it didn´t get any easier with Lok Bernau who is the farm team of BBL team Alba Berlin. Like Rhondorf, the club has many talented young Germans, but players that may still be young, but have more experience than the Dragons youth. Lok Bernau arrived into the game with a potent 8-3 record, but what was even more impressive was their immaculate 5-0 record on the road. After the Fiba break, the Dragons Rhondorf returned back into their living room and wanted to start a new winning streak and came together as a team for 45 minutes upsetting Lok Bernau 91-84 in overtime. Lok Bernau controlled the first half, but in the second half, the Dragons Rhondorf came together rebounding better and playing consistent aggressive defense forcing Lok Bernau to 22 turnovers. “Each game this season has been a dog fight. We were relentless tonight. We knew that we had to rebound well this game. We didn´t do it in the first half well, but in the second half, we rebounded a lot better. We did a better job stopping the lob pass and short roll passes in the second half. We all locked in on defense. This was our most important win of the season”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard JJuhwan Harris-Dyson (198-SG-1999, college: California). Lok Bernau played a solid game, but in the second half allowed the Dragons play their game and couldn´t get the momentum back in overtime. “We allowed them get easy baskets in important phases. We allowed them to play their game at the end. We allowed them find their rhythm in the second half and we didn´t defend aggressive enough and stop the pick and roll”, stressed Lok Bernau guard Anthony Watkins.

Anthony Watkins at the FT line

The first quarter was a real scoring clinic as 51 points were scored. Both teams found their offensive rhythm quickly as both teams attacked the rim well. Ex Artland Dragon Anthony Watkins who has 13 BBL games on his resume scored twice on the drive as his organization skills were top. The Dragons Rhondorf got good production from American Swiss Army knife JJuhwan Harris-Dyson who scored twice, but the guests still led 12-6. Lok Bernau´s offense playing quick always seemed a step ahead of the Dragons. Lok Bernau was changing players in and out and got sturdy minutes from their bench as German Emmanuel Schuler added 5 points for the 19-13 Lok Bernau lead. Lok Bernau also were controlling the boards and were securing offensive rebounds at ease that allowed them extra chances. Harris Dyson continued to be aggressive on offense adding 4 more points and cutting Lok Bernau´s lead down to 22-20. The California native also would have his best defensive game of the season as his pesky and feisty play secured him 5 blocks and 3 steals at the end of 45 minutes. The Mexican magician Jorge Mejias added 5 points down the stretch, but Lok Bernau played consistent until the end getting lay in´s from ex Leverkusen center Lukas Klein and German Anton Kemmer to lead 28-23 after 10 minutes. “I feel like we played decent in the first quarter. We couldn´t get 1-0 lay ups and had good shots. I´m proud of the guys as everyone contributed even the young guys like Vuk Scepanovic and David Bonning”, stressed JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. Lok Bernau shot 57% from the field and 25% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 5 turnovers. While the Dragons Rhondorf shot 53% from the field and 33% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Kenan Reinhart from outside

The scoring was less in the second quarter as Lok Bernau won the quarter 18-15 and still led at the break 46-38. Lok Bernau began the second quarter hot going on a 9-3 run to extend their lead to 37-26. Lok Bernau continued to get to the rim easily as young German Lukas Klein scored twice while Noah Isichei made an offensive rebound and put back and ex Dragon Marco Rahn dropped a trey. The Dragons Rhondorf continued to have difficulty with the guests tempo and team defense and on offense couldn´t get to the rim as well anymore as they packed the paint area well. The Dragons Rhondorf took a time out and then got new energy from Harris-Dyson as he made free throws and a massive throw down after getting a steal that made the Dragon Dome shake, but Lok Bernau still led 39-30. “I had missed 2 dunks before that. I wanted to make sure this time that I could get it. I didn´t care who was in front of me. I just wanted to finish”, smiled JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. After a mini 4-0 run by Lok Bernau, the Dragons Rhondorf then buckled down on defense cruising out on a vital 8-0 run to trail 43-38. The Dragons Rhondorf were able to heighten their defensive aggressiveness another notch. The run began with back to back steals by Harris-Dyson and Fynn Dobiecki which led to Harris-Dyson free throws and a transition bucket from Dobiecki and a lay in by Mejias and Harris-Dyson again. The Dragons Rhondorf were unable to hold that momentum into half-time as Anthony Watkins ended it with a lay in and free throw. “We were able to stay with them. We still weren´t rebounding as well and didn´t get enough transition play”, stated JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. Lok Bernau shot 50% from the field and 21% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 41% from the field and 17% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Juhwan Harris-Dyson at the FT line

In the third quarter came the turning point as the Dragons Rhondorf would explode out on a massive run, but couldn´t keep the lead as Lok Bernau led by 2 points after 30 minutes. Spanish/Israeli guard Guy Altman began the second half with a pretty floater in Facundo Campazzo manner as Lok Bernau led 48-38. However then out of seemingly nothing, the Dragons Rhondorf showcased their offensive potential going on an incredible 17-0 run to turn the game around and lead 55-48. In the run, they produced 9 stops and on offense shared the love around as team basketball was the main focus. Role player Lagui Diallo dropped 2 three pointers while ex Oberaching center Benjamin Sadikovic scored 2 lay in´s and Kenan Renhart hit a trey and Duje Dujmovic made a lay in. The Dragons Rhondorf played nice team basketball, rebounded better and let their defense spark their offense. However the Dragons couldn´t keep the momentum until the end as Lok Bernau struck back ending the third quarter with a 13-4 run to gain the lead back at 61-59. In the run, Lok Bernau heightened their defensive aggressiveness and got easy lay in´s from German Meo Martin and German Matteo Hermann while also getting free throws from Schuler and got a big buzzer beater three at the end from Altman. Lok Bernau got steals and blocks that sparked their offense. “We became too cautious in the third quarter. We gave up easy baskets in that run and weren´t able to play our game”, said Anthony Watkins. “We came out with a sense of urgency and knew that we had to bounce back. We came out and hit them first. That run deflated them a bit. We just played a good quarter of basketball”, stated JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. Lok Bernau shot 43% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 39 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 40% from the field and 24% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Harris-Dyson b

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight where Lok Bernau had 2 chances in the last few seconds to win, but the basketball God rather wanted to see an overtime with the score of 79-79. Lok Bernau began quickly with back to back buckets from Mr quadruple double Shawn Scott with a lay in while Isichei made another offensive rebound and put back for the 65-59 Bernau advantage. However Kenan Reinhart had other ideas scoring 5 unanswered points and Harris-Dyson made a free throw as suddenly the game was deadlocked at 65-65. Lok Bernau then produced 5 unanswered points as Artman dropped a trey and young German Finn Borczanowski added a tap in for the 72-67 lead. The Dragon Dome was loud and the Dragons didn´t wilt as they fought back getting 9 points in a row by Jorge Mejias as Rhondorf had the 76-74 lead. However Anthony Watkins made an off balance shot to tie the game 76-76 with 1,33 to play. After Harris-Dyson free throws, it was Borczanowski again with a clutch shot as he made a triple for the 79-78 lead. Harris Dyson then only made 1of 2 free throws to tie the game at 79-79. Lok Bernau had the last possession and Artman missed a trey that rattled out while the tip in attempt just missed forcing overtime. “Mejias was finding us all game. I told him in the third quarter that I would get him the ball. I knew they were focusing more on me. He really delivered in crunch-time with big buckets. He is always capable of getting a double double. He is always battling on the court”, stressed JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. “We stuck together and were able to get multiple stops. Our missed free throws really hurt us”, commented Anthony Watkins. The Dragons Rhondorf took care of business in the overtime period sticking together as a team and buckled down on defense getting big stops while rattling a 10-2 run to end the game with a upset win. In the run, it was Duje Dujmovic who added 6 points including an exclamation point at the end with a dunk. Mejias added 4 points securing the dub. “I think that we wanted it more. We took the momentum into OT and kept it. We made all the right decisions”, warned JJuhwan Harris-Dyson. “They took the momentum and we struggled to fight back. We weren´t able to play our game which is fast”, warned Anthony Watkins. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by JJuhwan Harris-Dyson with 25 points- Jorge Mejias added 20 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists while Kenan Reinhart added 12 points. Lok Bernau was led by Anthony Watkins with 15 points while Emmanuel Schuler and Guy Artman added 12 points a piece. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 41% from the field and 24% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 18 turnovers while Lok Bernau shot 36% from the field and 17% from outside and had 63 rebounds and 22 turnovers.