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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Just keep being confident and keep putting in the work.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Probably having the first triple double in Sacramento State history

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

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

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

We are probably even

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

Victor Wembanyama

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

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

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron, Kobe, MJ and Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

Thanks Marcus for the chat.

Marcus Graves Wants To Help Lead The Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier To The BBL This Season After A Touch Finish Last Season

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

Thanks marcus for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you at the moment?

I’m currently playing in Trier, Germany and hoop life is great, just enjoying the vibes.

Your playing your sixth professional season and second overseas with the VET-CONCEPT Gladiators Trier (Germany-ProA). Could one say that Trier has become your second home?

Trier has been great to me and my family and we have enjoyed our 2 years here

What have you enjoyed most about the city Trier and the Gladiators organization?

It’s a beautiful city and just seeing my daughter grow up every day and enjoy life has been most enjoyable for me.

How big is the desire to move back to the BBL after so many years in the Pro A?

That’s the goal, been our goal since last June and that’s all we have been focused on

How tough was losing that series to Frankfurt last season? Trier had that series in their own hands. Could one say that the team choked?

It was tough for sure especially me not being able to play at all in the playoffs because I was hurt. I wouldn’t say we choked I think you just got to give credit to Frankfurt. They were the better team for five games. But we definitely haven’t forgot that feeling.

The team was packed last season with talent as well as this season. Is this years version stronger than last season´s?

I think we are a lot deeper of a team this year. We have a lot of the same guys and adding the guys we did is only going to benefit us in the playoffs.

A big strength is the offensive power that the team has. How big of a goal is it to improve as a team every day on the defensive end?

That is really our main focus. We know we are going to score points. We have so many threats on that end and we understand that to get what we want out of this season that defense has to be the focus.

Your now playing your second season with Behnam Yakhchali. Is he the most versatile shooting guard in the Pro A?

B is unbelievable, the work ethic, the mindset, he is probably one of the best players and people I’ve been around.

How enjoyable has it been playing with Jordan Roland? How do you guys compliment each other best?

Jordan has been great, super genuine guy. When he came to our team we were kind of in a weird spot with losses, injuries and stuff and he kind of brought a spark to our team that’s rejuvenated us. We play really well off each other.

What has it been like being teammates with beast Maik Zirbes? Is he the ultimate leader on the club?

I love playing with guys who have so much experience like Maik, it’s just a great opportunity to hear their journeys and learn and get better in so many ways. He’s been a great leader for us.

How tough was it losing JJ Mann. Is he the difference between first and second place this season?

It was super tough losing JJ, not only as a basketball player but just his personality and competitiveness daily. It’s tough to say what could’ve been but this is our journey and I think it’s been a successful season so far.

Everybody gives 180% on the team, but which player is the unsung hero this season?

I think of guys like Nolan Adekunle, Marco Hollersbacher and Evans Rapieque. Guys who have just given their all to the role they are in and and been so selfless to our team.

Your playing 1 less minute than last season and your scoring and assists are down a bit. Has your role changed or just too much guard power?

Like I said i think we are just a deeper team and have so many guys that can score and make things happen. One thing that makes our team so difficult to guard is that you can’t really take away 1 or 2 players because we have 8-9 more guys waiting for their opportunity.

You had a bit of a lull in 4 games in March. How confident are you that your total A game will come before and in the playoffs?

I’m always confident in myself. Stats may call it a lull but also sometimes on our team it’s just not your night and you have to do other things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice, you or Jordan Roland?

Great great great question. You will have to ask Jordan that!

Thanks Marcus for the chat.

Julius Messer (Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners) Is The Glue Guy Every Team Needs

There was a time in Boston in the 80´s when the Celtics played, you were either at the game or watching it on TV with Celtics legend Bob Cousy doing the color commentary or listening on radio to the one and only Johnny Most with the raspy voice. They were winning titles with great players led by the big 3 with Larry Bird, Robert Parish and Kevin McHale. The so called BIG 3 are not to be compared, but this past season in Frankfurt there were 3 guys that had the most touches on the court. They have been one of the big reasons for the NBBL U-19 team being successful again. However, the big 3 of the Celtics back in the 80´s wouldn´t have been successful without key players like Danny Ainge, Dennis Johnson or Bill Walton. It was the same with the Frankfurt team as there were 2 very vital players, with Maximillian Peters and Julius Messer (200-SF-2007) who played in a specialist role. These 2 don´t carry the big load like the portrait big 3, but give key energy, scoring production and defensive intensity in every game. Messer is a very talented player that already has had some special moments on the court with the German youth national teams., “I have been lucky to have played 15 international cups. I have been with the U-15, U-16 and U-17 national teams. Unfortunately, I haven´t played any European or World cup games but played some memorable national team games. I remember playing against Turkey in Istanbul which was an intense and fast game. Another fond moment was playing against France. It is amazing to see how athletic these players already are for their ages. It was a new challenge to step up to, that I enjoyed”, stressed Julius Messer.

Julius Messer who lists French youth national player Nathan Holiman as his toughest opponent was born on April 8th, 2007 and grew up in Frankfurt Riedberg. Like many kids in Germany, he didn´t begin with basketball, but with soccer at the age of 3. But with time, he grew more and was too tall and his soccer coaches didn´t like that. “I wasn´t having fun with soccer so I tried basketball and liked it right away”, remembered Julius Messer. He began to play basketball at age 7 at Frankfurt Riedberg and had a tryout with the Skyliners at age 9. He then began to play with the Skyliners U-10 team. He was scoring 40-50 points a game by the time he played with the Skyliners U-12 team. In those days he was facing his current teammate Ivan Crnjac who back then played for Eintracht Frankfurt. He did have to fight with injuries and then Corona came. In this time, he was also visiting easyCredit BBL games of the Skyliners and already had basketball role models. “The first player that I was a fan of was Lebron James. I remember buying his #6 Miami Heat jersey. A few years later I began to enjoy watching players like Kevin Durant and Jaylen Brown. Going to games in Frankfurt, I really became a fan of Mike Morrison of the Skyliners, because he dunked the ball with authority and brought a lot of energy to the game”, Julius said with a smile in his face.

The athletic wing names Ivan Crnjac, Namori Omog, Chris Widmer, Noah Koch and Maximillian Peters as his closest teammates. Besides reaching the Top Four the year prior, the season2022-2023 with the Frankufrt Skyliners JBBL U-16 team was their biggest success so far. The team had a Cinderella season. The German sharp shooter remembers having a great semi-final game, but something then happened in the hotel that effected his game in the final. “The top 4 was tough for me. I remember hurting my finger in our last practice before the game. It was a very painful experience I had my hand taped and the pain severely effected my shooting. I had a good semi-final game by scoring 27 points. Back in the hotel Alba Berlin player Matthieu Gurijcic saw that my left hand was bruised and when the final game took place the next day, he was smart enough to not allow me to go right. “The atmosphere was amazing in the arena. The vibe was great. We had grown together so well during the season. It was too bad we couldn´t win the final. All in all it was a great experience”, remembered Julius Messer. A lot of those guys from the final from 2 years ago like Crnjac, Omog and Peters were still his teammates with the NBBL U-19 team. “We are like brothers. We also see each other at the national team meetings. We have grown close. A guy like Noah Koch who is in Vechta now has become a life long friend”, stated Julius Messer. Last season he got extra vital experience spending a year in the United States in North Carolina at Greensboro Day school which produced ex NBA and Real Madrid player Wayne Robinson. He was in the starting 5 of the team, that thought him to be a specialist in his role. To play for such a school brought a lot more pressure to perform at a high level. “I played for Coach Freddy Johnson who is the the 5th most winningest coach in the United States. It was brutal how disciplined you had to be to compete every day. I learned that you are judged by results. If you made one mistake, you would be subbed out right away. If the pass wasn´t perfect, you were out. Your self confidence was gone right away. I always thought that they didn´t play defense in USA, but they do and it´s very important”, stated Julius Messer. In this season 24/25 Ace Flagg, the brother of Cooper Flagg is on the team

This past season the young German who has Lebron, Jordan, Durant and Shaq on his NBA Mount Rushmore and Doncic, Giannis, Tony Parker and Jokic on his Euro Mount Rushmore was out for a long time not with an injury, but had a sickness called Mononucleosis. He couldn´t practice sports as it would be bad for his heart. He missed a month of school as he had no strength. He finally returned back in December and had some very strong games in the NBBL and Pro B. “I came back strong after my sickness. I worked very hard so I could fit in well with the team chemistry. I accepted not being in a key role right away”, said Julius Messer. In the NBBL, he averaged 9/4and in the Pro B 3/1. “My role this past season in the NBBL season was to attack closeouts, play defense and catch and shoot while in the Pro B to play good defense and take shots whenever I´m open”, stated Julius Messer. He was very fortunate to have 2 good coaches with Thore Bethke in the NBBL and Sepher Tarrah in the Pro B. “I have known Thore a long time since the U-14. I did a lot of individual training with him working on my shot. He has also helped me with attacking closeouts and decision making. Sepher has a lot of trust in me. I’ve to continue working hard to start gaining more minutes in the Pro B”, stressed Julius Messer. The NBBL recently lost to ratiopharm Ulm ending their season. “We played as a team. We worked hard in every practice and played hard in the games”, added Julius Messer.

The 2023 JBBL finalist who lists Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner and Isaac Bonga on his personal Germany Mount Rushmore is a 200cm forward that wasn´t able to give me a comparison to another NBA or Euro player concerning his playing style. His teammates Ivan Crnjac and Namori Omog also couldn´t help me. I guess the best thing is just to watch him play and come up with your own comparison. “I´m a player that is athletic, can shoot and play defense”, said Julius Messer. Even if his shooting is his biggest strength, he does have other attributes. “I love to go coast to coast, am quick and love the drive”, stressed Julius Messer. It’s no surprise that he can rise way above the rim to dunk. He showed it last season at Greensboro and in game 1 against ratiopharm Ulm, he went coast to coast with the massive 2 hand jam. But he isn´t only a strong offensive player but also takes a lot of pride on the defensive end. “I´m an aggressive defender and even when I get beat, I never give up. I always keep fighting”, warned Julius Messer. Like his teammates Ivan Crnjac and Maximillian Peters, he also has the goal of becoming a pro player but knows what he needs to work on to make the next step. “I need to be more consistent with my shot and defense. I feel like sometimes I play too hard. I need to play smarter and at times I could go harder for the rebound”, warned Julius Messer. It will be interesting to see where his basketball journey will go in the next few years.

Tyler Cavanaugh(Bahcesehir) Will Never Forget Checking Into His First NBA Game And Realizing That Lebron James Was Guarding Him

In the 26 year history of the Frankfurt Skyliners, the club has won 3 titles. The first one I didn´t witness and the second one only the last few months, but the third one I did. In the 2015-2016 season the Skyliners won the Fiba Europe Cup led by future World Cup champion coach Gordon Herbert and point guard Jordan Theodore who had his break out season that year and would go on to higher leagues overseas including the Euroleague. The success of the team wasn´t only based on these 2 gentlemen, but all in all, that team was a collective that all played for each other and played their roles to the best of their abilities. All players from top to bottom including Max Merz did their share for the success. One player that was very special was Aaron Dornekamp, a player who had his awakening in Frankfurt and then went to higher leagues in Spain with the ACB. Doornekamp is 39 now and still balling now in his 9th season in the ACB. He is a guy that always gets lauded by former teammates. It isn´t any different for ex NBA player Tyler Cavanaugh (206-PF-1994, college: GWU) that was teammates with him early in his career in Spain. “ Aaron had a huge impact on me that year he made me feel welcome on and off the court and was a great role model for me in how to have a successful career overseas as a player and as a father. I am very grateful that our paths crossed especially when I was still a young impressionable player. My wife and I are grateful for the Doornekamp family”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. But it isn´t only Doornekamp that totally enriched his life during a season, but many others. Cavanaugh has had incredible fortune being on teams that have had high character guys like Luke Sikma and Niels Giffey that have impacted his life and also helped him continue to develop as a player and person. It is no wonder that a Philip Scrub is on his list of 5 best teammates of all-time. Scrubb was also on that Skyliners 2015-2016 winning team and had an instrumental role coming from the bench.

Tyler Cavanaugh who lists as Jabari Parker as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was born on February 9, 1994 in Syracuse, New York. He began his basketball career at Jamesville-DeWitt High school and then played 64 NCAA games at Wake Forest University.In those 2 seasons, he averaged 5.0ppg, 2.5rpg and 8.8ppg, 3.8rpg and saw his minutes rise from 16 to 21. “The summer between my freshman and sophomore seasons at Wake, I worked really hard to change my body and get into better physical condition to handle the physicality of the collegiate game and that helped me really improve the next year”, stated Tyler Cavanaugh. In 2013 he was named to the ACC All-Academic team. He then made the jump to George Washington University averaging 16.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 54.4%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 82.7% and 18.3ppg, 8.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 84.8%. He crowned his 2 year stay there winning the NIT title in 2016. “That was a very very special run of basketball for myself and our team! Winning the NIT Title was huge for our university and something that had never been done before. We missed out on the NCAA Tournament by 2-3 games that season and were very disappointed but after Alex Mitola hit the game winning shot in the first game against Hofstra we were very motivated to get the chance to play for the title in Madison Square Garden. It was a very special experience for me getting to cut down the nets in MSG since I was a kid from upstate NY watching so many of my idols play games in that arena”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He had incredible games in the NIT win like scoring 20 points or more in 4 of the 5 games. There were some close games like against Hofstra and Florida. “Every game was special in its own way but that first game against Hofstra was definitely the toughest”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. In the 2 years he played 73 games and scored in double figures in 70 of 73 games showing brilliant consistency. He scored 33 points against St Bonaventure and 30 points against Dayton and Duquesne. He made massive strides in his game due to the guidance of coaches Mike Lonergan and Maurice Joseph. “They really helped me grow into a more dominant player at the college level giving me opportunities to have a bigger role on the court which thankfully I was able to take advantage of”, commented Tyler Cavanaugh. He picked up numerous awards in his 2 year stay at George Washington including ACC All-Academic Team -2013, All-Atlantic 10 Second Team -2016, 17, Atlantic 10 All-Academic Team -2016, 17, NABC All-District 4 Second Team -2016
NIT All-Tournament MVP -2016, and Reese’s College All-Star Game East Team Perfect Player -2017

The 206cm power forward who lists Keenan Evans, Landry Nnoko, Axel Bouteille, Sasu Salin, and Philip Scrubb as his 5 best teammates of all-time played NBA Summer League with the Atlanta Hawks in 2017 and then signed a 2 way contract with them. He then split time with the Atlanta Hawks (NBA) playing 39 games averaging 4.7ppg, 3.3rpg, and with the Erie Bay Hawks (NBA G-League) played 14 games averaging 11.4ppg, 6.3rpg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 91.3%. He made his NBA debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers playing 3 minutes and losing a heartbreaker by 2 points. He didn´t have much time to be in awe as he faced the likes of Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, Derrick Rose and Kevin Love. “That first game was absolutely wild I think I was in shock. The previous 24 hours to get me to that game was crazy getting a phone call before a g league game in Maine and then taking three flights to get to Cleveland. The one thing I will never forget is my first offensive possession of that game I caught the ball at the top of the key and realized that LeBron was guarding me, just a surreal experience to live out your dream”, expressed Tyler Cavanaugh. He played his first game as a rookie in the G-League and 2 days later made his NBA debut and then would be with the Hawks for more than 2 months before playing a G-League game. He saw so much from the NBA in that span and like every player before him had that NBA Wake up call. “It took me awhile to digest the fact that I was in the NBA because everything happened so fast but it was a special experience playing against the best of the best and being treated like that too. I spent a lot of time with Josh Magette who was on a two way with the Hawks at the time. Other than that I wasn’t super close with any of the guys”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. In his rookie NBA season he scored in double figures in 7 games including 16 points against New Orleans. In his second pro season he played 11 games for the Utah Jazz and also played with the Salt Lake City Stars (NBA G League) averaging 17.9ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 82.2%. Despite only playing 11 NBA games, He saw the season as one in which he was able to develop further. “I really improved my game that season and took another step as a player even though I didn’t get much opportunity in the NBA since we had such a good team. Experiencing a playoff series was really cool and seeing the preparations that go into that”, added Tyler Cavanaugh. In Salt Lake City he was coached by the German connection of German Martin Schiller and Americans Bryan Bailey and Nathan Peavy who all played in Germany who had a big impact on him. “These guys all really helped push me to start my career overseas, I had never truly considered it until I started having conversations with them and knew that it was the best next step for me in my career. I learned a lot from them and Shawn James who was also a part of our staff that season”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. He also saw at close hand what kind of a business the NBA world is. “ I was told they had a plane ticket booked back to the G League the next morning for me but I had my best game against the New Orleans Pelicans and they told me that I would be sticking around a bit longer after that. Also the trade deadline is a a very interesting time as well”, added Tyler Cavanaugh.

The New York native who lists MJ, LeBron, Kobe, and Steph on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore came overseas in 2019 and after seeing how the NBA works. It was a no brainer for him to test the waters overseas. “It’s tough to continue in the NBA and G-League for more than a few seasons because you can get lost in the shuffle a bit with all the new players each season and it is such a grind not knowing and living on the edge of your seat all the time. Financially it made the most sense to start my journey overseas as well. I was ready for a new experience and a style of play that better fit my game”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. With Alba Berlin he right away won his first tile overseas averaging 9.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 90.9%; in the BBL and in the Euroleague averaged 6.4ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT-1 (97.0%). Despite having success on the court, it wasn´t always an easy experience. “That season was very difficult for me adjusting to the style of play that Aito implemented as well as adjusting to being so far away from home. I was definitely home sick that year but living in a major city like Berlin helped ease the adjustment”, stated Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored 14 points in the Euroleague against Anadolu Efes and Maccabi Tel Aviv. He had the great opportunity to have another great player as a teammate with Luke Sikma. He couldn´t have asked for a better teammate to have as a rookie overseas. “Competing with Luke everyday was instrumental in my adjustment to the FIBA game and I was intrigued at how differently he played and viewed the game. I learned a lot from him and how easily he was able to dissect a game without scoring the basketball. a great passer and tenacious rebounder but also someone hat just played extremely hard every time he was on the court”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He played his second season in the top country league in Europe with the ACB in Spain with Iberostar Tenerife CB Canarias (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 7.8ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 46.6%, FT: 84.2%; and in the BCL averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 62.2%, 3PT: 52.4%, FT: 84.6%. He was able once again to make steps in his game. “ That was a very special season for me being a part of such a special group of guys and having a lot of success in both leagues. Personally I really started to understand the European game better that year and how I was going to have success as a player overseas. Playing with veterans like Marcelinho, Gio, and Aaron helped simplify the game for me so I could focus on my strengths as a player. Unfortunately we weren’t able to win any titles that year but I have a lot of great memories from that season and developed some great friendships along the way”, added Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored in double figures in 15 games in the ACB including 19 points against Gran Canaria and in the BCL scored in double figures in 5 games including 18 points against VEF Riga.

The 2024 Fiba Europe Cup finalist who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT then played 2 seasons with B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania-LKL) averaging 11.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 89.7%; and in the Euroleague 9.7ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 76.7%and in his second season averaged 7.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 84.4%; and in the Euroleague 5.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 76.9%. He won the league cup in his first season and league title in his second. “ Every season presents a new role and opportunity within a team and because of our struggles in my first year with Zalgiris I knew there would be big changes in year 2. We had a special group led by Keenan Evans and were able to accomplish some great things that season but for me personally winning the LKL Title was very fulfilling. After missing 4 months of the season with the back injury and being able to come back and contribute to the championship was very special for me”, remembered Tyler Cavanaugh. He scored in double figures in 32 of 60 LKL games including 26 points against Siauliai and in the Euroleague scored in double figures in 15 of 44 games including 22 points against Anadolu Efes. Once again he was able to be teammates with another ultra teammate Nils Giffey who won 2 NCAA titles with UConn and he even battled him in 2012 in the NCAA and was coached by Tautvydas Sabonis who was an assistant coach and the son of legend Arivdas Sabonis. “Niels is definitely the ultimate teammate. He will do whatever is necessary for the team to win and is a very versatile player. I had the privilege to play with him in Berlin and in Zalgiris and was able to learn a lot from him as he helped in my adjustment to the European game. I spent a lot of time working with Tautvydas those two seasons and he helped me to improve my game a lot. Lots of early mornings and hours spent in the gym with him. We developed a friendship too and I think he has a brought future ahead of him as a coach”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh.

In the 2023-2024 season he went to Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 15.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 85.6%; and in the FIBA Europe Cup averaged 14.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 89.2%. He lost a real heartbreaker in the Fiba Europe Cup final to Chemnitz. Was this his strongest season so far overseas? “ Yes for sure. It was an important season for me after coming off of my back injury and the fit with Bahcesehir worked out perfectly”, said Tyler Cavanaugh. This season he is back with the Turkish team and going very strong in the Eurocup and battling for the playoffs in the BSL. “Living in Istanbul and playing for Bahcesehir has been a great experience for my family and I. Last season was difficult, coming up short in the FIBA Europe Cup Championship game and not meeting expectations in the Turkish League but we have enjoyed our experience here. The people, food, and culture in Turkey have been some of the best parts and we are very grateful to be with such a great organization”, stressed Tyler Cavanaugh. Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) is holding their own in the BSL and reached the Eurocup semi-final. The interesting thing is that there are 8 new guys this season. “We have had a great start to the season because we have a great group of guys who have really come together and developed into a team. It’s always tough when you have a completely new team but we have gelled very well together which is easier when you have such high character guys like this team has. We still have a lot of goals to achieve ahead of us in the next few months”, warned Tyler Cavanaugh. He has had the luxury of playing with ex NBA player Marco Simonovic as both push each other to the limit each day to be the best they can be. “He is very valuable for our team because of his size and his ability to play inside and outside. It’s been great competing with him everyday ion practice and I feel like we are making each other better which is crucial in order for our team to reach our goals”, expressed Tyler Cavanaugh. It also seems like there isn´t 1 star on the team, but a collective of hungry guys playing for the team. My role is to be a leader on and off the floor and be a consistent presence on the court for this team. Playing smart, playing tough, rebounding the ball and knocking down open shots”, warned Tyler Cavanaugh. At 23-1 in the Turkish first division, it looks like Fenerbahce will run away with the title, but to Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul with Tyler Cavanaugh and other teams will do all they can to make this post season exciting.

Christian Hinckson(BG Hessing Leitershofen) Is A Swiss Army Knife That Wants To Grow Into A 2 Way Player

Christian Hinckson (201-G-1999, college: Binghamton) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Queens, New York playing his second professional season overseas with BG Hessing Leitershofen (Pro B). Last season he played his rookie season with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 13.1ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.3%He began his career at John Bowne high school and also gained experience at Tilton Prep school. He began his college career at Manhattan College (NCAA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.0apg and 7.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 35.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 72.1%. He then moved on to Binghamton University (NCAA) averaging 3.1ppg, 3.4rp, 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Christian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Germany with BG Leitershofen. What kind of an experience has it been and what do you appreciate most about the opportunity?

My first year in Germany has been a great experience so far, I am enjoying my time out here and love it. What I appreciate the most is that I’m able to play basketball everyday as my career and to showcase my talents in a well- respected market.

The club is in it´s third Pro B season and finished 9 and 11ththe last 2 seasons. This season the team is battling the RheinStars for the top spot. What has been the secret to the success?

Buying into the culture and embracing roles has been a secret to our success. It’s a fun brand of basketball we play and we have great players that compliments our run and gun style of play.

The team scores a lot of points with 93 per game, but also defend very well allowing 77 points per game. What is the team´s biggest strength on defense?

Our defensive versatility and aggressive style of play is our biggest strength on defensive. We have guards/wings who pressure the ball well and our bigs are athletic and agile so we can guard multiple positions with different matchups.

Leitershofen split with the RheinStars this season and the 2 games were decided by not more than 7 points. How hungry is the team to win the pro B South and be better than last season´s finalist?

We are really hungry, our as coach Richie would say we need “Saliva” meaning to be the hunters and killers as we perform. Our goal is to move up to Pro A so we are doing whatever it takes to make it there.

Your averaging 8/3/2/1 stats and shooting 36% from outside. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role on the team is to use my versatility on both ends to make plays. Defending, scoring, play-making anything that can be done to help the team win I do.

You were efficient in the NCAA. Your showing this season that your efficient. Did you develop that in the NCAA?

Yes the NCAA most definitely has helped my efficiency. Playing division 1 basketball humbled me and made me realize at every level there are roles on each team, so being efficient in your role and time played is very important.

Talk a little about the big man combo of Elias Marei and Ferenc Gille? How do they compliment each other best and what do you appreciate most about their games?

Elias and Ferenc have done plenty of good this season for our team. They do a great job being vocal on the defensive end and rim running in transition. What I appreciate the most about their games is their motors and how hard they play. Every game for sure you know you will get 100% effort out of them.

How valuable is in being teammates with fellow American rookie Asa Williams He played at 3 JUCO schools. Do you feel that chip on his shoulder??

Asa has made my journey here in Germany much easier. Coming from America, we had a few mutual friends prior to knowing each other and are able to relate. He’s also my roommate so we spend a lot of time together off the court. Without a doubt I feel that chip on his shoulder, he is a fierce competitor and we speak about it all the time about how much this opportunity means to him and the adversity he has faced playing basketball. He is having a special season, breaking records etc. and I’m rooting for him and his success.

How valuable is Dragos Dickulescu? Is he the motor of the team?

Dragos is extremely valuable to our team and has been our go to guy. He’s a very smart player and is talented. He has been a great leader and motor for us and his resume as a pro speaks for itself.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I was told by prior teammates I play like Khris Middleton or Kawhi Leonard but I’ve never been able to compare myself.

You have always been a guy that can fill the stat sheet well. Would you call yourself a Swiss army knife? Your game reminds me a bit of Pro A player Cam Henry of Kirchheim.

I would definitely call myself a Swiss Army knife! Versatility has been my game for most of my life and I have played several different positions all throughout my career. I do not know of Cam, but I’m interested to look up his highlights now

Your shooting the three pointer very well at the moment. What do you still have to do to make the next step as a shooter?

To make the next step as a shooter I would love to start taking and making deeper shots.

How would you describe your defensive game? You were a star defender in college. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I would say I am a smart and versatile defender. I know how to use my physical gifts to my advantage. I know I am a pretty good defender but there is still room for growth for me in every aspect of defensive. I want to be known as a two way player.

You played at Manhattan college from 2018-2020. What kind of an experience was that for you? You made a big increase of minutes to 13 more in your second season.

I enjoyed my time at Manhattan college and played a different style of basketball than I was used to. My first few year I got used to the speed and physicality of the college game. The year after that my minutes increased because I had a productive summer and worked on my weaknesses.

You had some big games at Manhattan including 16 points in a 57-53 win over Fairfield. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment at Manhattan was off the court. The bond I built with my teammates was like no other and I still keep in touch with most of them.

You then played at Binghamton University (NCAA) from 2020-2023 averaging 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. What memories do you have of these 3 years? You scored 20 points in a 81-79 win over Columbia.

What was most memorable through those years was the atmosphere we played in. Loved playing in front of about 2 to 4 thousand people every home game.

How did head coach Lavell Sanders who played 14 years in the Czech Republic groom and prepare you for a professional career?

Coach Sanders helped me a lot and I am thankful for him. He prepared me for Europe by teaching me a lot of the terminology and reads I see here in Germany and simplified my game a lot. It was an honor learning from him since he was once a professional and knows the ins and outs of the European game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Miles Gibson?

Miles and I had many battles 1-1, I would say it’s an even split.

Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?

Ex teammate Hamidou Diallo

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There are too many to name.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James

Michael Jordan

Kevin Durant

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

Haha I may get some hate for this but I have never seen the sequel. I watched the first one and it was great but had no idea there was a sequel.

Thanks Christian for the chat.

The Frankfurt Skyliners And Garai Zeeb With Career High 16 Points Silence The EWE Baskets Oldenburg 83-72

Even if the Frankfurt Skyliners won´t play in the post season, their fans had one thing to look forward to in the game against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and that was seeing the debut of diminutive 173cm point guard Duke Deen. He may not be the savior this season, but he could become sort of a fan favorite if his flashy play dazzles the fans.Unfortunately he didn´t play. Frankfurt was rebounding after a tough loss on the road against MBC while the EWE Baskets Oldenburg also wanted to start a new winning streak after losing their second game in a row on the road in Bonn. They made a spirited comeback at the end, but it wasn´t enough. Skyliner fans welcomed the current top scorer of the easyCredit BBL with Justin Jaworski who found his spots better in the second half. The EWE Baskets Oldenburg might have been in 12th place, but only a win away from the last playoff spot. On a cool Wednesday evening, The Frankfurt Skyliners showed a good effort for 40 minutes and took control of the game in the second quarter and then did a superb job managing the lead and won 83-72. “We found to our intensity early on and did a good job taking their shooters out of the game. We hit shots at a high clip. We continued to hit shots well until the end”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Garai Zeeb (187-PG-1997). The EWE Baskets Oldenburg were put in the hole early and never could get over the hump as their lax defense paid the price with the loss. “Our defense was a big theme tonight. We couldn´t control the 1-1 play. We also let them run too much on transition and didn´t rebound well when we had to”, stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg guard Len Schoormann.

Len Schoormann at the FT line

The first quarter was a tight affair as both teams started off slowly and the EWE Baskets Oldenburg then took the lead, but Frankfurt finally found their rhythm and led by 5 points after 10 minutes. Oldenburg couldn´t hit the ocean from outside and went inside more getting an offensive rebound and put back by 25 year old German Norris Agbakoko and ex Heidelberg guard Justin Jaworski made a 15 foot catch and pop shot while Frankfurt got early production from ex Boston College forward Patrick Heckman and Lithuanian big man Einaras Tubutis as Frankfurt pushed the ball inside whenever they could as the game was dead locked 10-10. Frankfurt then began to get more space moving the ball around better which led to more open looks going on a 10-5 run to lead 20-15 after 1 quarter as Alaska native Kamaka Hepa and Zeeb drilled home three´s, Danish champion Malik Parson made a 20 footer and Jordan Theodore a lay in. Frankfurt shot 57% from the field and 40% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the EWE Baskets Oldenburg shot 28% from the field and 13% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 4 turnovers. “Frankfurt took time getting adjusted to Oldenburgs hedge. Once they did, they found their rhythm and played faster. Tubutis was huge getting steals and rebounds. He is the man for the dirty work”, stressed TV Langen guard Drago Crnjac.

Jordan Theodore from outside

In the second quarter the Frankfurt skyliners took over and really went to work showing what kind of an offensive arsenal they have exploding for 30 points and leading 48-34 at half-time. American Marcus Domask and ex Skyliner Len Schoormann traded buckets in the first minute as Frankfurt led 22-17. Then came the turning point of the game from which Oldenburg never recovered from as Frankfurt went on a 11-4 run to lead 33-21. In the run, it was the spirited play of Garai Zeeb as he steered 8 points on 2 three´s and made the assist to the trey by Domask. Zeeb was involved in all 11 points. “He gave us a big spark off the bench. He always brings energy and is so important as he is an extension of Klaus Perwas. He did a great job on Jaworski and is a big leader for us”, warned Jordan Theodore. Even when Oldenburg punched back with a three pointer by Geno Crandle, Frankfurt most usually had a positive offensive answer. Frankfurt kept going inside attacking the mismatches and got easy baskets by Tubutis, Heckmann and Theodore to extend their lead to 41-27. Frankfurt did have problems inside giving up too many easy baskets especially to Agbakoko who hurt Frankfurt countless times and Schoormann twice got offensive rebounds that led to put backs which can´t occur to a guard like him. But Frankfurt had no offensive lulls and continued to execute well as Theodore connected on a high rainbow from the parking lot and Heckmann and Tubutis scored inside as well as Frankfurt went into the break with the comfortable lead up by 16 points. “Frankfurt had better ball movement and they hit at a high percentage. When you see the ball go in a few times, then the basket looks a lot bigger. Frankfurt switched a lot against their bigs which allowed a lot of 1-1. They had to box out better”, warned Drago Crnjac. Frankfurt shot 63% from the field and 50% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 9 turnovers while the EWE Baskets Oldenburg shot 37% from the field and 7% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Geno Crandall with the dunk

In the third quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners gave up their most points in the game with 21, but the guests couldn´t make any major ground and still had the good looking 12 point lead after 3 quarters. The EWE Baskets Oldenburg jumped all over Frankfurt early going on a 8-2 run to trail only 52-42. Ex Lafayette (NCAA) guard Justin Jaworski was the main man in the run scoring 6 points with a trey and 3 free throws. Both teams lived off runs as Frankfurt punched back with a 6-2 run to lead 58-44. In the run, it was Tubutis who continued to be a menace in the paint area scoring twice while Parsons displayed his lethal 1-1 qualities making a runner. Jawroski then lobbed a perfect pass to Crandall for the dunk and then hit 2 treys, but Oldenburg couldn´t get closer than 9 points to trail 63-52 as Frankfurt always had an answer and just played with a ton of confidence. Heckmann and Parsons hit three pointers to keep Oldenburg at bay as Frankfurt led 67-55 after 30 minutes. “We did 3 things really well in the third quarter. We continued to move the ball well, defended with a high intensity and rebounded well”, added Garai Zeeb. “When you don´t hit the three well, then you need to find other ways to win. We began well, but overalljust gave up too many easy baskets and on offense had too many turnovers”, added Len Schoormann.

Patrick Heckmann form downtown

Frankfurt continued to manage the lead well in the fourth quarter, but then had a little offensive lull mid way through, but they didn´t let up, but instead got some fresh energy from the bench with Garai Zeeb who sparked a last run that sealed the win. Frankfurt began hot and looked like they might decide the game early going on a 8-2 run to extend their lead 75-57. Parsons was key in the run with 4 points as Theodore also made a floater and Muenkat a lay in. Frankfurt upped their defensive pressure which led to Zeeb steals that sparked the offense. Zeeb then took a breather and Oldenburg punched back with a 7-0 run to trail only 75-64. In the run, the guests went inside 3 times getting easy baskets from Crandall, Schoormann and Agbakoko. Frankfurt looked a bit fatigued and were forcing their offense too much. However Zeeb came back in and drilled home a trey which led to a Lorenz Brenneke free throw and another trey by Jordan Theodore which slammed the lid on the game as Frankfurt led 82-64 with a few minutes to play. That three gave Garai Zeeb his highest scoring game in the BBL with 16 points. “I always want to play well. I realized early on that I had the hot hand. I´m glad I stayed hot”, smiled Garai Zeeb. Oldenburg did close out the game with a 8-1 run as Crandall made another trey and Jaworski 5 points, but it was too little too late. “It was a very intensive game. They switched a lot and we didn´t have a rhythm. However we came together as a collective in the end to get the win”, said Garaí Zeeb. “We tried to play transition. They hit big three´s. Our rotations didn´t work”, said Len Schoormann. The Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Garai Zeeb with 16 points while Einaras Tubutis ahd 13 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks and Jordan Theodore added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists while the EWE Baskets Oldenburg were led by Justin Jaworski with 21 points and Len Schoormann added 14 points. The Frankfurt Skyliners hot 51% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 37 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the EWE Baskets Oldenburg shot 37Y% from the field and 23% from the parking lot and had 40 rebounds and 18 turnovers.

The NBA Offense Style At Florida International Has Helped Tevin Brewer(with Kipina Aanekoski ) Average 10 Assists Per Game As A Rookie Overseas

Tevin Brewer (173-PG-1999, college: Duquesne) is a 173cm guard from Arkansas that played his rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A) averaging 29,3ppg,4,6rpg, 10,1apg and 2,2spg. He began his basketball career with Northside high school. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. he then played 3 years at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 76.7% in his second season and 15.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 82.9% in his last season. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

You’re playing your rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about being in Finland?

Finland has been a different experience. They play more physical over here and don’t give you a lot of calls that you are used to getting in the states. But how they move the ball and shoot a lot of threes I´m very used to it. I think I have enjoyed learning how they play basketball over here adapting to their style of basketball this year.

You had to pay your dues in college playing 2 years in JUCO, but then had a solid NCAA career at 2 different schools. Now you’re paying your dues again. How big is the chip on your shoulder and how do you cope with it?

There always a chip on my shoulder. Everybody thinks I’m too small but I played at the highest levels in high school and college so I always had the confidence and know I could excel playing basketball. The way I cope with is by working hard and knowing I put in the work that most people don’t put in and it will always show.

How big of a challenge has it been being a basketball player at 173cm? Is your heart bigger than most players out there?

I don’t think it’s a challenge for me because I know I out work a lot of people. I definitely have the biggest heart and some the best IQ in the game.

Your averaging 29/4/10/2 stats. How content have you been with your game? What was the biggest adjustment coming overseas for you?

I feel like this a great start to my career but I’m not content I feel like I could shoot even better then what I have been and it showed last game in my eyes im 45-50% from the three point line. The biggest adjustment is just how physical they let us play. Some calls I don’t get that I usually would.

How cool has it been being reunited with ex NCAA teammate Victor Hart? Are you guys like brothers?

I think it was great to reunite with my teammate. I knew he would be a great fit playing with me because he is versatile and I know with my playmaking abilities I could give him the ball where he likes to get his shot and help him excel.

Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 173cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would make the best description?

I think I would compare my game to Trae Young and Darius Garland the way they get their teammates involved and make the game easier for them. Also how good I shoot the ball like them and have a floater that makes them and me be a 3 level scorer.

You almost averaged 6,0apg one season in the NCAA and averaged10,0apg as a rookie. Do you feel your playmaking will continue to develop as you move up to higher leagues?

Yea I always feel like I have been a great passer and love making the game easier for my teammates so I feel more and more people real recognize my playmaking ability.

You are an above average three point shooter. You shot 40% one season in the NCAA and doing it as a pro. How vital is your three pointer in your game?

I feel like this a very important to my game because teams can´t leave me open on the perimeter or go under the ball screen when I have the ball. I don’t need much space so teams try to take away the space for the shot so that makes it easier to use my quickness to get my floater or layup.

You’re also a very aggressive defender. Where do you see yourself as a defender in your development? Where do you still want to go with your defensive game in the next years?

I feel like my defense is underrated. I don’t get beat off the dribble maybe once or twice during the game. I also read passing lanes and kind of anticipate where the ball is going next. I average two steals this year I see that part of my game getting even stronger in the future. I think I could’ve had more steals this year so I’m definitely going to improve on all steals and passing lane steals in the years to come.

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

The area of my game I’m working on the most will be my strength continue to get my body stronger and that will help me more aggresive on defense and my shot making ability you will always have a job if you shoot the ball well so I will work on this most to stay consistent and be dangerous.

You played at 2 JUCO schools Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. Every guy I interviewed that played JUCO said it was a grind, but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was definitely a grind especially at my first school Eastern. Coffeyville I loved it I played most with my friends in AAU and we were winning almost every game by 15-20 plus points and were top 5 all year so yea I´m glad I was a part of the JUCO grind.

What memories do you have of the Final 4 run with Coffeyville Community College? What was so special about that team?

Just enjoying the process with my teammates and friends. We all bonded together and that was what made us so good on the court. We played defense at a high level and could shoot the ball and run with any team we played that year. We went 31 -4 and did 5 out 5 in my number went down but the team was so good I didn’t have to score so much.

You played 3 years at Florida International (NCAA) improving your scoring each season. How did your game grow under Jeremy Ballard?

We played NBA Style offense so it helped me understand the ball screen read which slows the game for me and helped my playmaking ability grow. This offense is the reason I feel I’m averaging 10 assists my rookie year.

You finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. You played your first game against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky playing 14 minutes. What memories will you have playing against this top school and what Wild Cat player do you remember impressing you the most?

I really was not supposed to play this game because I got sick 3-4 weeks before and was in the hospital with appendicitis. But I wanted to just experience Rupp arena and playing against a legendary coach. Antonio Reeves was a player who impressed me the most with his shooting ability.

How did your game grow in your last NCAA season under former professional player Dru Joyce. Him being a ex guard must of helped your game?

He was a real defensive minded coach so he always was hard on me about staying engaged on defense and just growing as leader.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dae Dae Grant?

We really didn’t play 1-1 in college but he always made me better and I always made him better.

Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA?

I got a couple but I would have to say Trae Young, Malik Monk and Michael Porter jr were the best I ever faced.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Shai Gilgeous Alexander, Dae Dae grant, Isaiah joe, Daniel Gafford, Jimmy tre Clark

What is your personal NBA mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

I would say Michael Jordan. HIs dominance in the game I feel like no one has come close to his killer mentality besides Kobe.

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

I have seen the second movie but I definitely feel like they should’ve left it alone too much of classic and the made the second one too late.

Thanks Tevin for the chat.

The Goal Of 50 Points Is There For Tevin Brewer After Exploding For 45 Points In A Playoff Game In Finland

Tevin Brewer (173-PG-1999, college: Duquesne) is a 173cm guard from Arkansas that is played his rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A). He began his basketball career with Northside high school. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. he then played 3 years at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 76.7% in his second season and 15.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 82.9% in his last season. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball after scoring 45 points in a game.

Thanks Tevin for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

I’m in Finland right now playing in 1st division A. Basketball has been treating me good after sitting out of year because of passport issues I was ready to get back on the court as soon as possible and I think my play this year as shown that.

Congrats on getting by HBA-Marsky 3-1. You saved your best for last scoring 45 points. How draining was this series? They were all shoot out games.

This was great series between them I think they were a great test for us to go into the semifinals and be ready for JBA. The team getting healthy and I think we are ready.

Talk a little about the game. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think me being the point guard was a key and was just to the settle the team down when they made runs and being a great leader.

You have had many explosive games in your rookie season, but 45 points was the most so far. Was that the most points that you have scored in a game in your life?

Yes 45 is the most I scored in my life I had 43 and 42 a couple times. I have had a couple 40 point games this year.

Did you eat anything special for breakfast or was it the just normal pre game routine?

It was a normal day I didn’t do anything special.

How quickly did you know during the game that you would have another really good scoring game?

I knew it would be a good scoring game at halftime. I had 20 points at halftime and barely missed any shots. I had 20 a couple times at halftime this season but wasn’t as efficient as this game.

You weren´t far away from 50 points. Do you feel like some of your 2 point attempts could have been made?

I had like one of two that got blocked and yea a some of them where short because fatigue kicked in.

Now that you have hit for 45 points, is 50 points a goal?

I always feel like I could score 50 just like last game I took a couple plays getting denied and getting double teamed. So yes 50 is a goal if I get the chance.

What was your favorite own bucket and assist of the game?

I made a three in the third quarter where I shot it and turned around before the ball was halfway to the rim.

Did you get any special congratulations after the game from someone that you didn´t expect from?

Not really nobody special. People have seen me have a games like that through my high school and college career.

Do you get donuts or did the team take you out to dinner?

We got something to eat right after the game but nothing too special.

Thanks Tevin for the chat.

It Was Adrian Breitlauch´s Childhood Dream Since Age 13 To Play With The Eisaberen Bremerhaven As His Game Is Aging Like Fine Wine

Foto credit: Dennis Green

Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 31 year old 193cm guard playing his 7th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Adrian for talking to germanhoops.com. You got a contract extension and will play your 8th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Is Bremerhaven your second home?

Yes it is. It is my home. I was born in Bremen, but lived in Bremerhaven since I was 5 years old. I have so many friends here. I´m so thrilled that I can play more years with this club.

What makes this organization so perfect? What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

I remind myself all the time just how thankful I am to play for the Eisbaeren. It was my childhood dream since I was 13 to play for this club. The club grew some more this season. It is very family oriented and everyone understands the other.

You played 3 BBL seasons with them and then the rest in the Pro A. Was the easyCredit BBL never a serious ambition after the 3 years?

I never wanted to leave the Eisbaeren even when we moved down to the Pro A. I wanted to stay faithful to them. My 2 years with the Artland Dragons were very important because I was able to study on the side which will help me prepare for life after my playing career.

Let´s talk a little about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

I´m a role player that has a good shot, but at the same time plays smart. I have always been a player that can give an impact on the game without having the ball much in his hands. I´m like a 3 and D player with IQ.

Your playing your least minutes this season since 2018-2019. Your playing 3-4 minutes less, but your stats are better. It seems like your game is aging like fine wine. Are you getting better with age?

I hope so. I hope that trend will continue in the next years. I think my game fits well to Esterkamp´s system. A goal for the team this season was that every player gets around 20 minutes per game. Less minutes but more gas.

What exactly is your role on the team? Are you like a glue guy?

I´m the captain and team dad because I´m the oldest. I bring a lot of experience and am a good role model for the younger players.

Your shooting your best ever from outside at 44%. Have you changed anything up with your shooting technique?

I think that our system allows me to take good shots. I think working on my body this past season has helped me. I think that when the body feels it helps you most to be consistent with your game.

Your only 31 years old. On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game?

I try to work on my strengths. I work on my shooting, rebounding and IQ. I think that my game just fits well into Esterkamp´s system. I want to be the best role player possible.

You played last season with Nick Hornsby. How great of a player is he? Do they come anymore versatile than him?

I think that Nick is the definition of the Swiss army knife. He is one of my favorite players that I have played with. Every team would love to have him. I would love to be his teammate again.

Your playing your second time with Daniel Norl. How has he improved his game in the last 2 years?

He brought more experience this season and knows the German leagues. He is creative and can score in many ways. I feel like with experience, he has become more versatile. He also has become a better facilitator- He is a vital puzzle piece to our success.

You played 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons. What kind of an experience were those 2 years? What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment was that we made the playoffs in my first season. My second year wasn´t as great as I was out for a long time. I was an assistant coach with Patrick Flomo and even was head coach for one game.

You were teammates with legend Chase Griffin. Who would win a 3 point shooting contest you or him?

I think he would go 9/10 and I would go 10/10.

You were also teammates with Zac Ensminger. How much potential does he have? I guess you can´t have a better mentor than dad Chris?

He has a great mentor with his dad, but he showed that he isn´t just the son, but Zac the player. I´m following his season in Finland with much interest. I think that he will play many more years in the BBL.

You played 83 BBL games with Bremerhaven. What was your personal favorite game?

My favorite game was the overtime win over Oldenburg in Bremen in front of 8,000 fans. It was one of my first BBL games and then to play against my childhood idol Rickey Paulding was amazing.

What was it like playing for Sebastian Machowski. What did you learn most from his coaching philosophy?

I will be forever be grateful to him, because he gave me my chance to play in the BBL. He put me in cold water and just let me play. He liked my hustle. He told me to always work on my drive and left hand.

You were teammates with a young Dominique Johnson. Is there a more energetic and tough player than him right now in the Pro A?

He is at the top. He is a friend of mine. He is a leader that every team needs.

What was it like being teammates with Elston Turner? Did he tell any NBA stories about his dad?

He was a great guy. He was a very creative 1-1 player. He was a super guy off the court, but didn´t tell many stories. He always put guys on an island. I have a super positive memory of him.

What memories do you have of Darnell Jackson? Did he tell any Lebron James stories?

He was also a cool guy. I still have contact to him. He lived in Bremerhaven with his family. He told some Lebron stories, but that I don´t want to tell.

You played with the Itzehoe Eagles from 2012-2016. How vital were these early years in your basketball development

I always went to places where I know I could get decent minutes. I got a lot of minutes in the Regionalliga and in the Pro B. The important thing is that I got the chance to play. I would of never gotten the opportunity with Bremerhaven if I hadn´t been with Itzehoe.

How special was that last season playing for Pat Elzie? How do you remember him in his teaching methods and could you develop further under him?

Pat helped me a lot. He had a lot of trust in me. He is a players coach that always pushed me. I feel that without having gotten his trust, I would of never landed in Bremerhaven.

You were teammates with Kostas Karamatskos. What memories do you have of him? Could one learn toughness from him?

It was a real challenge to play against him as a young player. He was always physical on the court, but off the court, a gentle person. He was a real role model for me and a real character.

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

Derrick Williams when he played with FC Bayern Munich. I had to cover him and that was no easy task.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jordan Hulls, Jonny Berhanemeskel, Michael Kessen, Casey Hill, Nick Hornsby

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

Jordan, Lebron, Kobe, Kareem

Jokic, Doncic, Drazen Petrovic, Giannis

Dirk, Dennis Schroeder, Detlef Schrempf, Franz Wagner

Who is your GOAT?

No comment

Thanks Adrian for the chat.

Kenan Reinhart(Dragons Rhondorf) Was Able To Learn Mental Toughness from Legend Dirk Bauermann

pic credit: Martin Jung

Kenan Reinhart (194-SG-2007) is a 18 year old 194cm guard playing his second season for the Dragons Rhondorf. Last season he averaged 3,7ppg in the Pro B for the Dragons and in the NBBL for Bonn averaged 17.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 85.4%, In the 2023-2024 season for the RheinStars he averaged 3,1ppg in the Pro B and 24.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.3apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 80.3% in the NBBL. He also played at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany (Unofficial World Championships U18) in 2024 averaging 6.5ppg, 2.3rpg and at the FIBA U17 World Cup in Istanbul (Turkey) -2024 averaging 4.0ppg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I feel strong! I love basketball and it’s fun. That always matter it easier no made how tough the struggle may be.

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

It was a really good learning experience to see where we stand against the rest of the world. I felt like we were competitive. We always gave our best to stay with the opponent.

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

I don’t think so. They had some really good players. We had already demonstrated in the preparation that we could stay with them.

What could you learn from games like these?

To always keep fighting and never give up. A game has 40 minutes and you should never give up early.

You averaged 4,0ppg at the World Cup U-17. How did you summarize your play?

My three pointer didn’t fall well. I tried to help my team as best as I could and just give my best in the minutes that I got.

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

We had a good mentality after the loss to Serbia and just looked ahead and prepared for the next team. We had no time to cry. We had a very young team. I felt we gave our best given the circumstances.

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

It was an hon0ur to play for a legend like that. I had a very good relationship with him. The most important thing that he taught me was mental toughness.

What has it been like being teammates with athletic Jervis Scheffs. Did anyone console him after missing key shots against China at the end?

It was nobody’s fault. We win and lose as a team. We pushed each other in practice no matter what.

Let’s talk a little about your game. You’re a 194cm shooting guard. To what pro player have you heard comparisons from other people about how you play the game?

I hear the name Andi Obst a lot and recently have heard Reed Shephard who recently was drafted. I’m shot dominated and play good defense. I give whatever the team needs.

You’re a great scorer and shooter. Are you more than just a 3 and D player?
I needed to do more in the NBBL and showed it. I do whatever the coach asks of me, but being a 3 and D player is a strength of mine.

Dirk Bauermann said he wants you to become like Andi Obst. Do you follow his game and watch his videos?

I watch a lot of his videos and his natural moves. I tried to copy his step back jumper for my game.

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

I feel like I’m a solid defender, But I know that if I want to play at a higher level, I will have to defend better. Stephan Baeck always stresses that you will stay on the court if you play good defense.

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

My main focus now is on my body and to get more athletic. I’m also working on my mid range game and trying to incorporate a small floater into my game.

You were a member of the RheinStars Cologne. What was it like being part of this great organization? What did you appreciate most from the experience?

We are like a family. I feel like I’m supported from everyone in the organization. You go into the gym and everyone knows you. If you have a good game, they congratulate you and after a bad game they push you.

You had a great NBBL season averaging 24/7/2/1 and played your last game in December. You concentrated more on the pro B. How do you summarize your NBBL season?

I had a successful season and was named rookie of the year. I’m really proud how far we went this season after not winning a game last season.

You made your Pro B debut at age 15 scoring 4 points against Wolmirstedt. What memories do you have of that game?
It wasn’t sure before the game if I would play. I remember thinking on the bus that if I do get in, I won’t be afraid of no one and just play my game.

Last season you played in the Pro B averaging 3,0ppg in 9 minutes. How did your game grow?

The biggest thing that grew was my self-confidence. I want to build off that season this year. Last season was important in that I was able to find myself in the league and understand what I had to do to be successful.

You had so many talented teammates in the Pro B. Which RheinStars Cologne player had the biggest influence on you.

I think that the guys that played at my position with Bryan battle and Tim Lang had the biggest influence on me. They got more minutes and I always pushed myself to be better than them.

You reached the 2023 JBBL top 4. What kind of an experience was it playing there? You and Davi Remagen carried the team.

Davi is a good friend of mine. It was great playing in an atmosphere like that something we had never seen before. It was an unforgettable moment. It was the first JBBL top 4 in the RheinStars history.

How important has Zoran Kucic for your basketball development the last years’? How did he help you most?

Zoran has been very important in my career. I do a lot of individual training with him. He is always ready to train with me when I call him. He really believes in my game.

Why did you leave the RheinStars Cologne to come to the Dragons Rhondorf? Were there too many talented players in Cologne?

I left Cologne because the Telekom Baskets are more professional as there are more chances to move up as a player.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Dragons Rhondorf? What do you like most of the experience?

It has been a very educational experience especially with the coaching change and it is preparing me well for the life as a professional player. I like the atmosphere of the fans the most.

Your minutes have been consistent since the coaching change and before that up and down? What have been the reasons for you being more a part of the rotation?

I think that I was able to prove I could play in the minutes that I got and always tried to help the team as much as possible in practice.

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

Andreas Seifert.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ruppert Hennen, Bjoern Rohwar, Jannis Von Seckendorf, Davi Remagen, Ali Sow

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

Kobe, Jordan, Lebron, Steph Curry
Shane Larkin, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Milos Teodosic, Luka Doncic
Kendrick Nunn, Dirk Nowitzki, Tibor Pleiss, Dennis Schroeder

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Kenan for the chat.