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The Big Man Duo Of Sadikovic & Dujmovic Power The Dragons Rhondorf to 76-70 Victory over Rasta Vechta 2

The Slim playoff hopes of the Dragons Rhondorf were still alive with 3 games remaining, but they were 2 wins away from the last spot, but really wanted to secure their place for next season in the Pro B. An untimely 6 game losing streak in 2026 didn´t help their fight, but as of late their 2 game winning streak was definitely refreshing. The Dragons Rhondorf had a must win in their next home game against doormat Vechta 2. The club that helps develop young Germans had had a tough season and came into the game with a 4-18 record and had lost 6 of their last 7 games. However they had some confidence coming into the Dragon´s living room having won their last game at home against the EN Baskets Schwelm. Rasta Vechta played a strong first quarter, but the Dragons Rhondorf took control of the game in the second quarter and never looked back winning 76-70. Rhondorf was led by the potent big man duo of Dujmovic and Sadikovic who combined for 36 points and 25 rebounds. “It was an average game for us. We had good phases where we played aggressive defense and good offense, but also bad phases where we were lost, but all in all, we stayed together in the end and won and that is what was important”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Kenan Reinhart. Rasta Vechta 2 fought the whole game and even cut it down to 7 points in the fourth quarter, but just couldn´t get over the hump. “We had a solid first quarter, but allowed too many offensive rebounds and open shots in the second and third quarters. I´m proud though that we didn´t give up and fought to the end”, stressed Rasta Vechta 2 American AJ Sumbry.

Benjamin Sadikovic at the FT line

The first quarter had a few runs, but after 10 minutes the Dragons Rhondorf had the slim 22-21 advantage. Rasta Vechta 2 got off to a rapid start leading 8-2. American AJ Sumbry who is playing in his 9th country overseas scored 5 points while 2022 JBBL finalist Roy Krupnikas hit a trey. The ball movement and energy of the guests was on par while Rhondorf was a bit sluggish and still figuring things out. But Rhondorf then got going with a 11-2 run with better spacing and got the pick and roll going as the Spanish magician Jorge Mejias hooked up twice with ex Oberaching big man Benjamin Sadikovic (208-PF-2003) with 2 dunks. Ex Neustadt forward Duje Dujmovic also made a trey and Kenan Reinhart an off balance shot for the 13-10 lead. The guests then found their offensive rhythm and got good support from young Irish center Etinosasere Ehoghae with 2 baskets, but the Dragons Rhondorf punched back with a Reinhart trey and Dujmovic basket to tie the game at 18-18. Rhondorf continued to attack the rim with a Dusan Ilic lay in and Dujmovic scored on transition as Mejias fed him his fourth assist of the game. “We couldn´t crack Vechta´s pick and roll defense in the first minutes, but then got on track with Mejias and Sadikovic. We then concentrated more on our defense”, stated Kenan Reinhart. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 47% from the field and 33% from outside and had 10 rebounds and 2 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 44% from the field and 25% from outside and had 11 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

Roy Krupnikas from outside

The turning point of the game came in the second quarter where the Dragons Rhondorf got away from Rasta Vechta 2 allowing only 8 points and led comfortably 45-29 at half-time. The Dragons Rhondorf took charge right away going on a 14-4 run to extend their lead to 35-26. In the run Jorge Mejias took a break from his strong playmaking and pretty dimes and instead penetrated to the rim 3 times in a row that led to free throws and 2 lay in´s. Role player Lagui Diallo also was aggressive and scored twice on the drive including a reverse lay up and Sadikovic made a tip in. The Dragons aggressive defense led to contested shots and steals that helped them take charge of the game. 3 free throws by 2024 NBBL champion Moritz Gruess stopped the run, but Rasta Vechta 2 just couldn´t muster any offense as Rhondorf had no down phase, but finished the first half strong with a lethal 10-0 run. Dujmovic showed just how dangerous he can be as he let his inside out game sparkle with 7 points while Ilic made 3 points. “Sumbry had foul trouble and was on the bench. We wanted to take advantage of our size. Dujmovic really dominated and took charge”, added Benjamin Sadikovic. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 50% from the field and 30% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 5 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 31Y% from the field and 23% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Epke Kruthaup at the FT line

Rasta Vechta won the third quarter 16-14, but couldn´t make any ground on the Dragons Rhondorf as they were still able to execute solidly to lead 59-45 after three quarters. Kenan Reinhart got the Dragons Rhondorf on the board first in the second half with a lay in in traffic. Before the season began, Reinhart was mainly labelled as a three and D player, but he warned that he wanted to improve other phases of his game and did with the drive, mid range and playmaking. “I gained weight which helped my physicality as well as practicing with the BBL team helped my drive. I see I made a step forward there and since my double double of points and assists, I realized also that I got better with passing”, commented Kenan Reinhart. Young German 17 year old talent Epke Kruthaup found his range from outside nailing 2 three´s, but Rasta Vechta 2 still trailed 49-37. The Dragons Rhondorf continued to hold their double digit lead, because they continued to make good decisions and execute well as Reinhart made the perfect pass to Sadikovic for the dunk and then hit a floater for the 53-37 lead. Roy Krupnikas had a tough first half with only 3 points, but in the latter half found his range dropping 2 three´s, but Rasta Vechta 2 couldn´t gain any ground because Mejias and young German Carlo Schmid made baskets to lead by 14 points after 30 minutes. “The third quarter has often been our worst quarter this season, but in the last games, we came out strong and we did that again tonight”, smiled Kenan Reinhart. “I was in foul trouble. When I´m out, it really limits our size. They took advantage of that as their bigs got easy baskets and got free throws”, stated AJ Sumbry. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 46% from the field and 23% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 9 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 31% from the field and 33% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Kenan Reinhart with the runner

In the fourth quarter Rasta Vechta 2 still had energy to make one last push and cut the Dragons Rhondorf lead to 7 points, but could never get over the hump. Jorge Mejias began the fourth quarter with a 20 footer as Rhondorf led 61-45 and it didn´t seem like they could let the guests come back. But Rasta Vechta 2 still had some extra gas in their tank going on a 8-2 run to trail only 61-54. Rasta Vechta 2 attacked the rim as Krupnikas scored twice including once with his left hand, 2025 Pro B champion Joel Lungelu made a left handed lay in and German Moritz Dresing scored on transition. Rhondorf had no aggressiveness with their 1-1 defense allowing easy scores. However the Dragons Rhondorf stopped the run getting some vital buckets as Mejias made a runner and Dujmovic a lay in for the 66-56 lead. Rhondorf would annoy Rasta Vechta 2 time in and time out with their aggressive work in the paint with scores and offensive rebounds. Gruess and Reinhart then traded three pointers, but Rhondorf still led 69-59. Rhondorf continued to get super production from Sadikovic who was a real work horse as he was relentless on the glass getting a lay in and put back for the 74-63 with 2 minutes to play. Time was running out, but the guests never lost faith going on a timely 6-0 run to trail 74-69 with 31 seconds to go. Sumbry, and Lungelu free throws and a Krupnikas lay in were made. But Rhondorf took good care of the ball and Reinhart nailed free throws to secure the victory. “We were too relaxed in crunch-time and thought we had the win. We realized the game wasn´t over and closed out the game well”, said Kenan Reinhart. “I´m proud how we fought to the end. We played with urgency and stopped their second chances and hit big shots. We just came up a bit short”, added AJ Sumbry. The Dragons Rhondorf were led by Duje Dujmovic with 20 points. Benjamin Sadikovic added 16 points and 18 rebounds and Jorge Mejias had 11 points and 9 dimes while Rasta Vechta 2 were led by Roy Krupnikas with 17 points while AJ Sumbry added 14 points and Epke Kruthaup had 13 points. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 42% form the field and 24% from outside and had 51 rebounds and 15 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 36%

Lukas Smazak`s Crazy Third Quarter Buzzer Beater Shot Dismantles The Ahorn Camp Baskets As The Skyliners Juniors Glide To 91-74 Victory

After a slow start into the 2025-2026 season where the Skyliners Juniors were a poor 3-10, the club has rebounded in 2026 having a 7-1 record and are making a real push for the Pro B South playoffs. It is no secret that the 10-11 team have had a real scoring boost from new American Desmond Watson who was averaging 27,0ppg while experienced ex Pro A player Moses Poelking had been a force under the basket at both ends. Their next opponent were the 11-11 Ahorn Camp Baskets who like Frankfurt wanted to secure a playoff spot and came into the game in 7th place, but had lost 3 of their last 4 games. On a rare late Friday night game Frankfurt welcomed Speyer and Pro B legend DJ Woodmore who had played in the BCM gym the last decade and played his 229th Pro B and it was his 213th Pro B game where he scored in double figures netting 13 points, but it wasn’t enough as the Skyliners Juniors won 91-74. It was a contest that was at eyelevel for 3 quarters, but a crazy buzzer beater trey from Lukas Smazak (188-G-2007) to end the third quarter paralized the Ahorn Camp Baskets which led to a 27-16 fourth quarter that allowed Frankfurt to win. ‘We didn’t defend well in the first quarter and then stepped it up more in the second quarter. We upped our game in the second half. We moved the ball better, made tough shots and played transition. We also stuck together which was important’, stressed Skyliner Junior Lukas Smazak. The Ahorn Camp Baskets played well for three quarters, but also lost energy in the fourth quarter as that Smazak buzzer beater hurt them mentally. ‘We ran out of gas and fell flat in the second half. They hit shots and the flood gates opened up and that was that’, stressed Ahorn Camp Baskets guard DJ Woodmore.

Leif Zentgraf at the FT line

The first quarter was a real scoring affair as 49 points were scored in total and the Ahorn Camp Baskets had the slim 25-24 advantage after 10 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors had the quick 5-3 lead as rookie Ohio native Desmond Watson made a jumper and German Next Gen player Jamie Edoka hurled down a trey. However the guests from Speyer found their rhythm rapidly as lock down defender Dennis Diala and Austrian guard Felix Angerbauer connected for trey’s for the 10-7 advantage. The game turned into a game of small runs and quick lead changes as Leif Zentraf scored 5 unanswered points to give Frankfurt the 15-14 lead. Watson free throws gave Frankfurt the 17-14 lead. Both teams were strutting with a lot of self confidence as Speyer now had some added burst of energy going on a 7-0 run to lead 21-17. In the run DJ Woodmore who tested his 27% from outside stroked home a trey and Angerbauer executed on transition. Speyer also was able to hurt Frankfurt with their drive as Woodmore and German Oskar Humpert scored for the 25-19 lead. However Frankfurt didn’t wilt in the last minute going on a 5-0 run to trail 25-24 after one quarter. German Joshua Zentgraf made a lay in after getting the fancy over the head dime from Watson while German Dusan Nikolic made a 2 handed dunk. The Skyliners Juniors shot 62% from the field and 50% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp Baskets shot 50% from the field and 43% from outside and had 8 rebounds and 2 turnovers. ‘It was a quarter of two teams trading baskets with no real big defensive plays. Nobody was able to start a run. Both teams moved the ball well and there were some good individual plays’, stated Eintracht Frankfurt (NBBL) head coach Thore Bethke.

David Aichele at the FT line

In the second quarter there was a little less scoring and 7 lead changes as the Skyliners Juniors had the slim 41-40 advantage going into the break. The Skyliners Juniors got going right away escaping on a 5-0 run as German center Moses Poelking made a lay in and then a monster block which led to a trey from Ivan the universal genius Ivan Crnjac for the 29-25 Frankfurt advantage. Edoka made a nifty extra pass for the dime. ‘It looked like Jamie was going to shoot from a tough spot, but Ivan yelled ball. Jamie was able to pass it in the last second. It was a nice play’, stressed Thore Bethke. However the Ahorn Camp Baskets were patient and found fortune going on a 10-2 run to gain the lead back at 35-31. In the run, Speyer got big input form their bench as German Joshua Kreilein added 5 points while Woodmore added a trey and ex Koblenz guard Ade-Eri made a lay in. Both teams then punched back and forth as there were 5 lead changes. Frankfurt received added three’s from Watson and Nikolic while Watson also dropped a lay in while Speyer got a trey from Angerbauer and lay in from Humpert. ‘There were few fouls in the quarter. Poelking did a good job when he was in, but when he was out, Frankfurt had problems on the boards as Ade Eri did a good job getting inside. Frankfurt needed to match him better’, said Thore Bethke. The Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 45% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp Baskets shot 43% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 8 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Desmond Watson with the runner

The third quarter continued to be a very tight game where the Skyliners Juniors never looked behind them keeping the lead, but never leading by more than 4 points until the last shot by Smazak that proved to be the turning point of the game. Alvin Oyiya and David Aichele produced for their teams as Onyia got to the free throw line twice and scored while the big man Aichele made a free throw and lay in making a big heads up play catching an airball by Ade-Eri to trail 47-46. The young bucks of Frankfurt Edoka and Crnjac executed well while Ade-Eri really carried Speyer as he remained non stop aggressive getting to the free throw line 3 consecutive times and made a lay in to dead lock the game at 54-54. He never got a real chance in Koblenz and now can show his abilities in Speyer. Frankfurt continued to have their neck in front as energizer Dusan Nikolic came from the bench and gave instant energy with 6 points including 2 on drives and one with his left hand. Speyer got some good support from 2023 JBBL finalist Noah Koch who made an acrobatic lay in, but Frankfurt still led 61-58. Then came the turning point of the game as Smazak launced a deep trey that fell at the buzzer as the Skyliners Juniors led 64-58. ‘I saw them put their head down at center court as I came with the ball and there was one second to go. I let it go and I knew it was going in. That shot hurt them mentally. We went from 3 to 6 up’, said Lukas Smazak. ‘That Smazak shot really shifted the momentum. If we would have been more focused for 2 more seconds then it wouldn’t have been a 6 point lead. We had our chances and stayed with them’, commented DJ Woodmore. The Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 40% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp Baskets shot 43% from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 29 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Felix Angerbauer at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Skyliners took the Smazak buzzer beater as momentum and began with a lethal 12-4 run to slam the door shut on Speyer and from there managed the lead until the end. Frankfurt received big three’s from German Leif Zentgraf and Smazak as well as lay in’s from them for the 76-62 advantage. The Skyliners Juniors heightened their defensive pressure and strung along some stops benefited with a few steals that led to transition buckets. Speyer then strung along 3 consecutive stops, but their three stops at the free throw line only produced 4 points, but they trailed only 76-66. But Speyer was running out of steam as the Skyliners Juniors now ultimately closed out the win with a brutal 14-3 run to lead 91-69. Frankfurt demonstrated precision shooting as Edoka, Smazak and Crnjac all dropped three pointers and Poelking unleashed a dunk for good measure to give Frankfurt their 11th win of the season. Smazak’s trey was a desperation shot that somehow fell for him. ‘I had 2 seconds on the clock to shoot it. I didn’t know this was going in, but I was hoping’, smiled Lukas Smazak. The guests closed out the game with a 5-0 run as Angerbauer hit another trey and dropped free throws, but it was too little too late. ‘We did a good job on defensive rebounds and we defended aggressively and moved the ball well. They were tired at the end. We stuck together. We have to keep the momentum for the next games’, warned Lukas Smazak. ‘They found their rhythm and started to hit shots. They played great defense and we got flushed. We got turnovers and they made us pay with made shots’, said DJ Woodmore. The Skyliners Juniors had 6 guys score in double figures and were led by Jamie Edoka with 16 points while Lukas Smazak added 14 points and Desmond Watson 13 points. The Ahorn Camp Baskets were led by Dam Ade-Eri with 16 points while Felix Angerbauer had 14 points and Dj Woodmore added 13 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 46% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Ahorn Camp Baskets shot 41% from the field and 30% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Lock Down Defender Dennis Diala(Ahorn Camp Baskets) Continues To Grind In The Pro B But Has The Dream To Play In International Competition

Pic credit: Sabine Jost

That the NBA is defined by it´s offense, athleticism, eye popping dunks and Wemby at the moment, it is a wonder at times that defense is still played in the NBA. But it isn´t all about offense as there are enough guys that can be called 2-way players or guys that are simply real lockdown defenders. Some guys that come to mind in the NBA are studs like Jrue Holiday, Alex Caruso. OG Anunoby or Luuentz Dort. That a more focus on offense has also shifted overseas is nothing new as on the last Euroleague game day from March5/6, there was no team that scored 100 points or more, but still 4 teams that scored 90 points or more and the rest 80 points or more. One can still see real hardnosed defense in the Euroleague as it is led by lockdown defenders like Nick Weiler-Babb, Thomas Walkup and Isaac Bonga who all played in Germany at one time or the other. But it isn´t only in the top leagues where one can see top notch defense, but also in lower leagues all over the globe. Even in the German Pro B, one can witness lower scoring games and even there there are lock down defenders who pride their game on making a massive impact on the defensive end. One of those guys is young 22 year old German Dennis Diala (196-SF-2003). It is really enriching to see such effort and engagement from young players on the defensive end since often it then where young bucks want to make an impact on the offensive end. One doesn´t only need a great skill set and work ethic to be a potent defender, but also extreme confidence in one´s craft. “I see myself as a lock down defender and one of the best in the Pro B. I can defend any guard and usually defend the other team´s best defenders”, warned Dennis Diala who ranks Michael Jordan as his GOAT. DJ Woodmore definitely sees him as a sturdy defender who can make an impact. “Dennis has been our best perimeter defender the last few years. His wing span and good instincts make it tough for any player to get a clean look. I think that he has taken a huge step physically this season and it shows every weekend. I still think that he is only scratching the surface of what he can be. I put him on the list of the top defenders in the Pro B”, stressed Ahorn Camp Baskets Speyer guard DJ Woodmore.

The 197cm guard/forward who lists ex Alba Berlin guard Jaleen Smith and Yanic Niederhauser of the Los Angeles Clippers as his toughest opponents so far in his career began his basketball career with SG Heidelberg/Kirchheim and then played Regionalliga with USC Heidelberg and played with their NBBL (U-19) team. He will never forget Matthias Stein as he was his mentor in his early years. He got to practice with the MLP Academics and even played 2 easyCredit BBL games against Alba Berlin and ratiopharm Ulm. He then made the next jump in his career and joined the Ahorn Camp Baskets Speyer. Is he calling Speyer his second home now in his fourth season? “Yes it has. I´m originally from Heidelberg. When you are in an organization for a longer period of time, it really feels like home. I feel very comfortable in Speyer”, said Dennis Diala. The club has made big strides the last 3 seasons having reached the playoffs. Will they make it a fourth consecutive season to the promised land? “I´m very confident that it will happen again. We have a strong team and deserve to be in the playoffs this season. We lost some bitter games this season that we shouldn´t have lost, but I feel that if we can beat Frankfurt and Dresden, then we will have good chances”, warned Dennis Diala. He played in the playoffs against Wolmirstedt, RheinStars and Leverkusen. Was there a favorite series for him? “I think the RheinStars series is the one that I remember most. We were up 15 points in game 1 and lost control in the fourth quarter and lost. It was similar in game 3. I think that had we won that series, that we could of gone far”, remembered Dennis Diala. The initiator of the success has been head coach Carl Mbassa who has been at the helm now for 13 seasons. He was a solid second Bundesliga player and even played parts of 2 seasons in the BBL with Frankfurt and Nordlingen. “He is a very emotional coach. He knows what he gets from each player and always tries to bring the best out of each player. He works hard at helping us be able to make the next step as a player”, commented Dennis Diala.

Pic credit: Sabine Jost

The athletic German who lists and DJ Woodmore, Kelvin Martin, Rob Lowery, Shy Ely, Brekkott Chapman as his 5 best teammates of all-time has been more than fortunate having a teammate with DJ Woodmore from the start. Woodmore like Mbassa has been a Speyer lifer and has been instrumental in Diala becoming the type of player he is today. “Foremost DJ is a great person and teammate. I have defended him so many times the lasty years in practice which has really helped my game. I have to admit that I have copied some of his moves. He forced me to take shots when I was younger. I´m really thankful how he has helped my game over the years”, stated Dennis Diala. But it isn´t only Woodmoore that has helped his game and the success of the club, but two other Germans with veterans Christoph Rupp und David Aichele who combined have been with the organization for 10 years. “Rupp is a very smart player and one of the smartest players that I have played with in my career. He is really good at how he moves on the court and brings opponent´s defense out of their concept. It is so easy to play with him. He makes every teammates´ life easier. David is a big presence, can get every rebound and always ready on defense. He is a real force on defense”, explained Dennis Diala. The German has made solid strides in his 100 games pro B career. He averaged 8/3r his first 2 seasons and currently is at 9/4. Head coach Carl Mbassa never parked him on the bench when he arrived, but simply threw him into the shark tank early. “He believed in me since the start. I came as a NBBL player from Heidelberg and it wasn´t a given that he would give me trust. He trusted me after 4-5 games and began to insert me in the starting lineup. He pushed me from the start and I´m very grateful that he did”, added Dennis Diala.

The lockdown defender who lists his NBA, Euroleague and German Mount Rushmores with players Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Giannis, Nikola Jokic, Luka Donic, Tony Parker and Dennis Schroeder, Dirk Nowitzki, Franz Wagner, and Detlef Schrempf is a player that has never really compared his game to any player. He does watch many video´s of top players and hopes one day to become a mix of Kevin Punter and Kevin Durant. He has demonstrated in the last 3 years that he can be a durable scorer. In his second season he scored in double figures 9 times and last season and this season 11 times. Last season he even exploded with 28 points against Erfurt. He is so close to cracking the 10,oppg in a season. Can he attain this plateau? “I believe I can make it. I just have to continue to work hard”, said Dennis Diala. His three pointer is still a work in progress as 2 seasons ago he was at 31% and last season at 23% and currently is at 23%. “I have improved my three pointer the last years. I feel that my hard work over the summers really paid off. I think that I can get better. I feel like my open and catch and shoot shots are solid, but I have to work on my off the dribble shooting better”, expressed Dennis Diala. He knows that his defense is already at a good area in his game, but it´s his offense that he still needs to tweak to reach the next level. “I want to perfect my three pointer and improve my drive to the rim”, commented Dennis Diala. So what goals does he have as a player? He wanted to play in the Pro A this season, but had no offers and returned to Speyer. A run in the playoffs this season could really help him for the next step next season. His dreams are definitely big. “I want to play at the highest possible level. My dream is to play in international competitions like Euroleague or Eurocup”, stressed Dennis Diala. But he should go one step at a time. He definitely deserves a Pro A gig next season.

Returning To The NBA Will Always Be On RaiQuan Gray’s(AEK BC Athens) Mind But For Now He Will Continue To Build His Resume Overseas

RaiQuan Gray (203-F-1999, college: FSU) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Ft Lauderdale playing his 5th professional season and second overseas and second with AEK BC Athens. He played his first 3 professional seasons in the G-League with Long Island and Austin and also played 3 NBA games with the Spurs and 1 with the Nets. He began his basketball career at Dillard High School and then played at Florida State (NCAA) from 2018-2021 and in 2021 was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets at #59 in the second round. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks Raiquan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with AEK BC Athens. What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has overall been very enjoyable. I have a new journey and it´s been a lot different to what I was used to from the States. I´m really happy playing for AEK BC Athens.

Has Athens become like a second home for you?

For sure. It took some time to get familiar with all, but it has been great. It is great competition and crazy fans. Greece is a very beautiful country.

Was there some culture shock at first coming from the smaller Ft Lauderdale?

Not as much. As soon as I got to understand everything, it was good. The people are all nice. The biggest adjustment was being ahead 7 hours to home.

The team is playing well and is in third place in the Greek first division standings. How enjoyable is the challenge of competing against the 2 Euroleague teams Panathinaikos and Olympiakos?

It´s been great. I´m a competitor and always want to play the top teams and measure up to them to see where I´m at. It is great competition. I have shown that I belong on that stage.

The team next battles the 3-0 Alba Berlin in the Basketball Champions League. Does AEK have what it takes this season to win a international title?

I think so. My primary purpose why I came back was too win the BCL. We as a team went so far last season and know what it takes to get so far. Now we want to win it. We feel like we have good chances to win. We want to build off our momentum and keep getting wins.

How valuable has a guy like ex NBA player James Nunally been for you? Is he like a mentor for you?

Yes for sure. He has been playing for a very long and has a great IQ. All ears are on him when he is speaking. He is a really good teammate and guy.

Your having solid seasons in both competitions. You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet really well. What exactly is your role on the team this season?

I do it all. I feel like that has always been my role. I´m a versatile player and can affect the game in many ways. If it means rebounding, scoring or defending the other team´s best player, I will do it.

Your almost averaging 4,0apg in the BCL. Have you been asked to be more of a facilitator in the BCL?

I think that I have always been a natural passer. Roles are always changing. Last season we had more of a passing center with Grant Golden and this season, I have been called upon to be more of a passing forward.

You never took many three´s in the G-League. Is incorporating a three pointer more into your game a goal of yours?

Yes I do. I want to have better three point shooting percentages. I think that I just need to take more reps and I´ll be fine.

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

I think it happened during a domestic game last season. I didn´t play in the second half. I didn´t have a good first half. I understood after that I needed to have a better focus and understanding of the game so I would play more. I needed to learn more about the game, but still be myself on the court.

You reached the BCL Final 4 beating French team Nanterre in an exciting 3 game series and then lost Malaga. What memories do you have of that run?

It was so electric. We hosted the Final 4 in Greece. The atmosphere was amazing and so were the fans. It was real high level hoops. One won´t really know what that feels like unless you were there. It was one of the best experiences in my life.

You played your first 3 pro seasons in the G-League and NBA. You played 4 NBA games and scored in double figures in 3 of them. Those are pretty unusual stats. Do you feel like you got a fair chance to show your game?

Not really. No one really ever asked me that question before. I never felt sorry for myself. I mean I feel like I did the most I could with the opportunity that was given to me. I feel like these times helped me grow. I couldn´t have asked for a better opportunity then.

You played your rookie season with the Long Island Nets averaging 7.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.1apg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 20.3%, FT: 82.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie?

That first year showed me that I had to fix my habits and create good habits and be confident. I needed the right mind set and it made me hungrier.

In your second season you averaged 15.0ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 64.9%, but only played 4 minutes more than the season before. Did head coach Ronnie Burrell discover your scoring abilities?

I don´t know if he discovered it. I will always appreciate that he believed in me and let me be myself. I was aggressive and played with that chip on my shoulder. He saw something in me and pulled it out.

You were really consistent that season and didn´t get a call up until the end of the season. Was this another good example that politics rules the NBA business?

Possibly. A lot goes on behind the scenes that one can´t control. I just go out and take what´s given to me and do the best possible.

You made your NBA debut against the 76ers and had a fine game with 16/9/7 in 36 minutes. How much fun was that game? You were a bit in the shadow of Cam Thomas´s 46 points though.

It was a really cool moment. My family was there to witness it. I was actually home 2 days before my debut and then flew back to play. I knew before the game that I would play well. I knew since I was a little kid that I would be a NBA player one day. I had put in so much work. I was confident and ready to have a good game.



The next season you played with the at Austin Spurs (NBA G League) averaging 15.4ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 76.1% and played 3 NBA games with the Spurs. Once again you got called up at the end of the season. You won the last game against Detroit. What was your personal highlight from those 3 games?

I got extended minutes at Oklahoma City. I let it all out on the court. I hit shots early and felt good. I also had a solid game in Detroit. I was able to fit into a system and be myself around good players.

You were teammates with Victor Wembanyama and saw what he did then an dhow he has continued to develop. Where do you see his game being in 5 years?

He will be the best player in the NBA in 5 years. I saw what he could do behind closed doors. He had an incredible mentality and work ethic. He was different.

How big is your personal NBA goal? Guys have gone back after coming overseas.

My goal is still the NBA. I will never shut the door on the NBA dream. I´m 26 at the moment and not 30. I feel like I still have a small window open. If the opportunity ever presents it´s self then I´ll take it. Meanwhile I will keep building my resume overseas.

You played at Florida State from 2018-2021 and reached 2 NCAA Sweet 16´s. What loss was tougher? To Gonzaga or Michigan?

I think that Gonzaga was the tougher loss. I wasn´t ready for the moment. It was my first year in the NCAA- The game was super fast. We had the team to do it that year.

You had many great games at FSU including beating North Carolina twice as a senior. What was your fondest moment on the court?

It wasn´t my moment, but when Trent Forest dunked on Jordan Nwora against Louisville. We were #5 at that moment. It was the loudest that I ever heard the crowd.

How did head coach Leonard Hamilton groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He taught discipline early and gave me freedom. He taught me to be professional, take care of business and how to communicate. He held me accountable, but also allowed me to make mistakes and be able to learn from them and grow.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malik Osborne?

I will take myself.

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

Marvin Bagley and Zion Williamson.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Trent Forest, Terrence Mann, Justin Linder, DayRon Sharpe and Mfiondu Kabengele

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Carmelo Anthony and 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?

I didn´t see it.

Thanks Raiquan for the chat.

It’s Always Refreshing Seeing Some Old School In A Big As Brendan Temple Displays For Racing Luxemburg

Brendan Temple (206-C-2000, college: Purdue NW) is a 206cm center from Colorado playing his second professional season and second with Racing Luxembourg (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) averaging 15,8ppg, 9,9rpg and 2,6apg. Last season he averaged 21.2ppg, RPG-5 (12.0), 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP-2 (60.4%), 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 66.7%. He began his basketball career at Douglas County high school and then played 4 seasons and 112 games for Carroll College (NAIA). In his last season there he averaged : 13.3ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.8%. He then played one more season with Purdue University Northwest (NCAA2) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 64.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Brendan for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second pro season overseas and second with Racing Luxemburg. Was it a no brainer to stay after helping the team move up to the first division?

Thanks for reaching out and yeah it was definitely an easy decision. I really liked my teammates and coaches, and I wanted to see what we could do together in the first league. On top of that, living in Luxembourg City has been a really nice experience, so it just made sense to come back.

You hail from beautiful Castle Rock that has a scenery many Americans would die for. What have you found beautiful in Luxemburg since arriving in late summer 2024?

I actually grew up in the western suburbs of Chicago in La Grange, Illinois. Moved to Castle Rock in high school and have been living there ever since. Since coming to Luxembourg, I’ve noticed how beautiful and clean the city is but the rolling green hills outside of the city are definitely underrated and remind me a little bit of Colorado.

You lost a tough test game in Germany to the Dragons Rhondorf. Germany is the place for basketball since years ever since Germany won world cup and now they are Euro champs. Is Germany on your bucket list to play in one day?

Yes, I’d definitely like to play in Germany one day. I liked the style of basketball there; it was physical and methodical, which I feel fits well with my own game.

Racing Luxemburg is a team that wants to make waves in the first division Luxemburg. Is the goal really only to stay in the league?

The goal is definitely bigger than just staying in the league. We want to turn some heads and make people change their opinion of the club. The focus is on making Racing prominent in the first league and showing that we belong at that level.

The team has many great veterans like home grown players Max Hilger and Steve Lanners. Does the team have the depth to remain in the league?

Yeah, I think the team definitely has the depth to stay in the league. We’ve got a group full of super competitive guys, and everyone knows their role and contributes to making winning plays for the benefit of the team. That kind of mindset is rare, but it’s also something you see in really good teams, and I feel like we have that here.

What has it been like being teammates with ultra veteran Antonnio Bivins? Was he like a mentor for you last season?

Tone has absolutely been a mentor for me. I’ve gone to him with all my questions, which is ironic because we have completely different play styles and energies. But when your teammate has had such a long and successful career, like he has, you tend to listen to what the man has to say. Having Tone help me with the start of my career has been a huge help.

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 206cm center. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

Drew Timme

Is it fair to say you have some old school in you? You had nifty hook shots with both hands as well as a running hook shot and nice fade away jumper. It looks like you have watched quite a few players in your life.

I really developed that scoring touch in college. The hook shot became a go-to for me because it’s such an efficient way to score in the post while only needing a few dribbles. I’ve always watched college basketball more closely than the NBA, and since post play is such a big part of the college game, it stuck with me.

Name some players that you have watched over the years where you have soaked up things from?

NBA bigs that I have stolen things from are Kevin Love, Pau Gasol, Al Jefferson, and Jokic, just to name a few.

You take the three, but not that many. Are you working to incorporate more of a three pointer into your game?

Oh absolutely, becoming consistent from the three will open up my game and make me harder to guard.

What kind of a defender are you now as a pro player? Do you still classify yourself a bit raw? What kind of a defender would you like to still become?

Yeah, I know I can definitely improve on the defensive end. I have a good understanding of positioning off the ball and how to help my teammates, but I know I can still grow as a one-on-one defender. I want to be able to guard multiple positions well.

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

I’m trying to improve my three point and free throw. Getting more consistent in these areas will make me more well rounded.

Last season with Racing Luxembourg (Luxembourg-Nationale 2) you averaged 21.2ppg, RPG-5 (12.0), 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP-2 (60.4%), 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 66.7%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

In the basketball sense, it was the first game against Mess. I realized the game was much different than college and how the refs call the game. In the world sense, it was going to the grocery store and adjusting to the layout, different language, and food brands.

You had so many great games last season. You had 40 points against Bascharage and a massive 20/21 game against Soleuvre. Which of these 2 games was your favorite. Bivins once had a crazy 52/24 game against the latter.

The 40 point game against Bascharge. It was on my birthday.

You played 4 years at Carroll College (NAIA). How formidable were these years for your early basketball development under Kurt Paulsen? How did he help your game most?

My development at Carroll was not what I expected it to be. Believe it or not, I was a wing in high school, shooting the three and having very little post game. Then I got to Carroll and there were more talented guys playing on the wing. The opportunity for me to play was on the block. Coach Paulson developed my post game by teaching me how to finish through contact, having+ great footwork, and developing touch.

You reached the NAIA Elite 8 in 2021. What do you remember from that run? The team bowed out against SAGU:

It was one of my favorite college memories. My favorite game during that run was the round of 16 game against #2 William Penn. I think we were the #15 seed and the team really came together and played our best game of the year.

You had some great games against Providence MT with 27/17 and a 27/13 game against UMW. What was your fondest moment there?

The game against UMW was the first conference home game as a senior. So it was special to start the senior year with a good game and a win. After 3 years of being a role player it was nice to step up for the team.

You then finished at Purdue University Northwest (NCAA2) averaging 14.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 64.6%. You had no adjustment needed going from the NAIA to NCAA 2. How did your game grow that year?

I really credit it to Coach Boom. When I was looking for a new school he was clearly the coach that believed in me the most. He unlocked my game. At PNW, I was able to play make and impact the game from different areas of the court, not just in the paint. *

You had many great games in the NCAA 2. What memories do you have of your 15/5/7/1/1 game against GVSU where you had the game winning basket?

My favorite memory from that game wasn’t the game winner, but the possession prior when I threw a lob to Kalil Whitehead, who is probably the most athletic guy I have ever played with, who just threw it down to secure the lead.

How did head coach Boomer Roberts give you the last needed preparation in being able to turn professional?

Like I said earlier, the biggest thing Coach Boom did for me was give me confidence. He does this with all his players. He builds great relationships.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dalton Gayman?

If it was on the block I would win in a 1v1 scenario but if it was taken anywhere outside the paint DG had my number.

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

I played Scottie Pippen Jr quite a bit growing up and he has turned out to be an outstanding player.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Shamrock Campbell, Andrew Cook, Antonio Bivins, Jovan Sljivancanin, CJ Jackson

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan, Jokic, Tim Duncan, Steph Curry

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

Wouldn’t know, haven’t seen it.

Thanks Brendan for the chat.

Having Been Able To Learn From Guys Like Bryant, Reaves And Welp Has Allowed Khyri Thomas’s(MBC) Style Of Play Be Great For The Entire Team

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber with Khyri Thomas in Frankfurt

Khyri Thomas (190-F/G-1996, college: Creighton) is a 29 year old 190cm guard playing his 8th professional season and first in Germany with the Syntainics MBC Weissenfels (BBL). He began his basketball career at Benson high school and alsomplayed at Fork Union Military academy. He then played 3 years at Creighton (NCAA). He then was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 38th draft pick. He then played 3 seasons in the NBA and G-League playing with the Pistons and Rockets in the NBA and with Grand Rapids and Austin in the G-League. He came overseas in 2021 and played in countries like Spain, Israel, and Turkey. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Khyri for talking to germanhoops.com. After stops in Israel, Spain and Turkey, your now in Germany with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a decent journey so far, We have a great group of guys and staff has been very professional.

Your far away from big places like Detroit and Houston. Is it still a tough adjustment to off court things or is the quaintness of Weissenfels perfect to focus more on basketball?

I am not a very needy guy so adjusting isn’t a big problem at all. Learning new things each week about Germany is fun.

The SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL) are an incredible organization. They won the Fiba Europe Cup in 2004 and then had many not so successful years in the BBL and even moved down to division 2 and last season surprisingly won the German Cup. What is so special about this organization?

What’s special is the group of guys are very unselfish and all about winning. Which makes things a lot more fun and enjoyable.

The team have so many interesting guys like John Bryant a BBL legend in his 15th BBL season, a Spencer Reaves, the brother of NBA player Austin or Collin Welp the son of Chris who helped Germany win the 1993 Euro. There many more guys and then there is you the ex NBA player. How does your character add to the uniqueness of this years team?

I think just learning from each of those guys has made my style of play be great for the entire team.

From those guys I mentioned above or others, is there a player that has had the biggest impact on you this season?

I’d say Akeem Vargas or John Bryant have been most helpful and their IQ for the game is very amazing.

The team has great scoring balance as 6 guys are scoring in double figures in the BBL this season. In Frankfurt you had big shots in crunch time as did Marcus Foster. What exactly is your role on the team and can any guy be the go to guy on any night?

My role is to be best version of myself on the court and lead as well.

Last summer you played with the Calgary Surge (Canada-CEBL) averaging 8.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-3 (1.8spg), FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 33.7%, FT: 77.8%. What kind of experience was it. The CEBL is a rising league. How did this experience help your game more than just being at home and working out?

Simply just getting back in shape from a hamstring injury and knowing how tough this league can be.

Last season you played with Socar Petkimspor (Turkey-BSL) averaging 14.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 70.4%. That was your second tour of duty in Turkey. You lost a tough playoff series against Fenerbahce being swept. What was so tough getting over the hump in that series?

We overcame a lot that season but a team like with that much talent and experience is always challenging.

How tough was the 2022-2023 season? You began in Turkey with Tofas Bursa but then stopped palying for personal reasons, but returned later in the season to Hereda San Pablo Burgos (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging 10.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 86.5%. You had to play in division 2. What did you learn about yourself in this season?

That season was extremely fun and going to championship was a huge confidence boost for me personally.

In Burgos you were teammates with Rasid Mahalbasic, a very unique player that had amazing seasons in the German BBL and had a string of triple doubles. Was that one of the most versatile bigs that you played with so far overseas?

Too many to name honestly.

In your first season overseas you split time with RETAbet Bilbao Basket (Spain-Liga ACB) and with Maccabi Playtika Tel-Aviv (Israel-Winner League) averaging 7.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%; and 3.5ppg, 2.2rpg in the Euroleague. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Just score and try to get back into the NBA.

How big of a learning lesson was the stay in Tel Aviv? You played in the Euroleague, but overall witnessed that you can´t just jump in and expect 30 minutes. How did that stay help you adjust to the ballers life overseas?

To simply stay ready and control what you can control.

You had some amazing teammates in Tel Aviv with Derrick Williams, Scottie Wilbekin and James Nunnally. Was a guy like Williams a mentor for you for your first season overseas?

Absolutely, those guys were very professional, extremely talented, and very welcoming.

You played your rookie season with the Detroit Pistons (NBA) playing 29 games averaging 2.6ppg. What do you remember being your wake up call being a rookie in the NBA?

Control what I can control is all I could do.

You had some real veterans on the team at the guard position like Ishmael Smith and Wayne Ellington. Was one of these guys or someone else like a mentor for you in your rookie season?

Ish Smith was always in my ear and teaching me things.

In your second pro season you played 6 NBA games and 2 G-League games. How tough was this season for you? How tough is it in general to continuing to make a name in the NBA when you can´t show your abilities? Does one lose the footing that one had established in your rookie season? Each season new young guys are coming into the league?

I understood it was a business and nothing personal. Just hooped like always.

In your third pro season and last in the NBA you played 5 games for Houston and 7 in the G-League. How tough was this season during Covid? Was Covid another experience that derailed your attempt to continue to try to establish yourself in the NBA?

Just keep trying to prove I deserve a chance to showcase my talent.

What was the best example that you saw in your 3 years in the NBA where you saw first hand that the NBA will always be a business first?

Just being able to watch veterans be so professional was truly amazing and unforgettable.

You played against so many great players like Dirk Nowitzki, Shai Gillgeous-Alexander Devin Booker or Chris Paul in the NBA, Was there one meeting on the court with a player that you will never forget?

I barely played so I just walked back to the locker rooms honestly.

You played 3 seasons at Creighton (NCAA) and 102 games. You made big jumps in your game each season. How did your game grow in those 3 years?

Locking in mentally and going at the other top guys we played against.

What do you remember from the great NIT Elite 8 run where you beat Alabama and Wagner but lost to BYU?

That was a huge jump in my role for the team going into the next season.

You then reached 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Kansas State and Rhode Island. What memories do you have of the big dance? S What was missing from going further?

Playing with with guys whose last year ended in that type of game and environment.

You had so many great games like against Depaul and St Johns in your senior year. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

Simply winning the games and enjoying them with family friends and teammates.

How did head coach Greg Mcdermott groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Treated me like a son of his own. Couldn’t ask for more of him.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marcus Foster?

ME!!

Who is the toughest player that you have faced in your career?

Marcus Foster!!

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Not fair to the rest of guys I’ve got to play with.

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant.

Who is your Goat?

Kawhi Leonard

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

I have not seen it. Couldn’t tell sorry but most people I know didn’t like the sequel.

Thanks Khyri for the chat

USA Is The Long Term Goal Of Musa Abra(Basketball Lowen) As College And The NBA Is On His Bucket List

Pic credit: Fiba

The first time I realized that some famous athlete shared the same birthday as mine of September 20 was in grade school. He wasn´t a basketball player, but a NHL legend with Guy Lafleur. He was also my first favorite player as his grace on the ice was mesmerizing as was his free flowing blond hair as he raced to the goal with his scoring and playmaking skills. Later when I was covering basketball in 2006, I noticed that Braunschweig guard Ashanti Cook was also born on my birthday day. It hasn´t been many, but for the research of this piece, I also came upon other notable people from the basketball world like like Donatas Motiejunas, Nathan King and Kyle Anderson and the heart and soul of the Boston Celtics Red Auerbach as well as people like Sophia Loren, Gary Cole and Kristen Johnson all known in Hollywood. When I was researching for my next article for Musa Abra (179-PG-2006), I came across that blessed day of mine of September 20 with the young talented German player Musa Abra. “My best gift ever was a bracelet that I received for my 18th birthday. I would like to get a dog”, smiled Musa Abra. He is a player I have seen play the last years in the pro B as his minutes and skills have grown every season. His play was noticed by the German basketball federation as he was able to compete at the last U-19 World Cup where he earned an incredible Silver medal. He has always been a late bloomer, but his game is finally coming together. He has massive goals and one of many young German players to keep an eye on in the next years. USA is the long term goal of Musa Abra as College and The NBA are on his bucket list.

The 19 year old German who names Christian Anderson and Calvin Wishart as his toughest players he has battled in his career so far found his way to the orange basketball through his 2 sisters who inspired him to play. Another friend also began to play which began their love for the game at age 10. His first 2 basketball inspirations were Kobe Bryant and Derrick Rose while his father was a mentor for him. He began with the Basket Lowen U-10 team and played for the Gotha Rockets in the U-16 and for the Basketball Lowen U-19 team. He found love right away for the Basketball Lowen Erfurt that he was never tempted to go anywhere else. “Everything around the court was special. The staff, medicals, volunteers and what I enjoyed the most, are the fans who never give up on u”, said Musa Abra. He began to play for the Lowen NBBL team in the 2022-2023 season averaging 5.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 3.4apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 90.0% and also played 12 Pro B games. His minutes kept rising in the Pro B from 13 to 21 and he averaged 3,0ppg in the pro B and in the NBBL 16.8ppg, 5.4rpg, 4.8apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 26.2%, FT: 72.1%. His minutes rose again last season to 30+as he had his real pro B break through last season averaging 10.9ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 28.3%, FT: 73.3% and in the NBBL was a top player averaging 20.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.9apg, 3.3spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 27.9%, FT: 79.6%. His game grew every season. “I think I got way more comfortable in playing my position, my confidence got higher over the time and I think I got much stronger body wise”, said Musa Abra. He also was very fortunate to have had 2 great guards with American Tyseem Lyles and German Jan Heber that helped with his game through the years. “Both of them are really great players. I was always able to learn a lot from both players. From Tyseem, I learned a lot about his approach to training, and from Jan, I learned how to lead a team”, stated Musa Abra.

The German who names Guy Landry Edi, Jan Heber, Tyseem Lyles, Noah Kamdem, Paul Albrecht, and Mike Mitchell Jr as his best teammates of all-time is now in his fourth pro B season and has seen the misfortune of the club in the last 3 years. The ambitions of the Lowen organization have always been massive as the Pro A is a big goal. However the results in the playoffs were never good. The club lost in the quarterfinals the last 3 years and have a 1-6 record in those games against Koblenz, Wolmirstedt and Paderborn. “I think it was down to us every time. We didn’t play with complete confidence at the decisive moments, which then cost us the game”, remembered Musa Abra. This season the club is currently moving in a direction where the club won´t make the playoffs. The club allows more points than what it makes which has cost them too many games. “I think we lack energy on both ends. We got beaten way too often in one on one situations and conceded a lot of points as a result. And even though we were the better team offensively, we still lost most of the time because of that. I still believe we will correct this problem in a short time”, commented Musa Abra. Lyles and Heber have departed the club, but he has great teammates with Paul Albrecht who is in his third season with the Lowen and rookie guard Mike Mitchell who are both players from which the young German can soak up much from. “ I think Paul is a very important piece in our offense. He can pass, he can shoot and he can finish under the basket. With a player like that in the offense, you can play very creatively. I really enjoy playing alongside Mike on the court. He is a very good shooter and is also very good at creating for himself. This draws defense to him and allows him to find his open teammates, or he takes the shot himself”, expressed Musa Abra.

So what kind of a player is Musa Abra exactly who lists Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar on his NBA Mount Rushmore and Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schröder, Franz Wagner, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Detlef Schrempf on his German Mount Rushmore? Some players develop quicker as others as a Ivan Kharchenkov who is a freshman at Arizona (NCAA) was already a top Pro B player at age 16 while Abra developed differently. “You could say that I’m a late bloomer, as I’ve only developed physically and as a basketball player in recent years, while others were already much further ahead much earlier on”, said Musa Abra, He is a 187cm point guard that compares his game as a mix between Sylvain Francisco and Maodo Lo. He is a scoring point guard who can also find his teammates with ease, but also understands that he wants to continue to improve his playmaking skills. “I think scoring and being aggressive is a really big strength I have. But for me it is also important to get my assist rate higher”, added Musa Abra. But if one thinks he is all about making an impact on the offensive end, he is just as capable as making an impact on the defensive end. “ Defending is also a big part of my game, full court or one on one. I think situations like closeouts and staying in front of my man are one of my strengths”, warned Musa Abra. Scoring is something that he has continued to improve the last years and knows what other areas of his game are most important to improve now. “I want to improve my passing abilities but also in taking care of the ball in every situation”, said Musa Abra.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Musa Abra in Frankfurt in 2025

The scoring point guard who lists Michael Jordan as His GOAT in the past and Lebron James as his present GOAT celebrated his biggest success so far in his young career with winning a silver at the 2025 U-19 World Cup with Germany. “It was a great thing, especially with this team. And it gave me the motivation to work on myself even harder”, said Musa Abra. He had incredible teammates like Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach who are currently playing in the NCAA and possible NBA draft picks in 2026 and others like Jack Kayil, Declan Duru and Eric Reibe who also are massive promising prospects. Unfortunately for him, he didn´t get big minutes. He actually only accumulated a total of 20 minutes in 5 games, but wouldn´t have traded the experience for anything. “I leaned to stay ready in every second of the game. Your chance will come even if it´s frustrating”, stressed Musa Abra. Even if Germany stayed with USA well for the first half, they completely collapsed in the second half as their athleticism totally overpowered Germany. He played 2 minutes against Team USA and saw future NBA draft picks play. Does he feel like his game is so far away from future NBA guys like Dybantsa and Peat? “I think my game isn´t so much far away from them. They are quality wise, body wise and mental wise better than me. But If work hard enough over the next years, then I can get even closer to their level”, warned Musa Abra. His teammate Jack Kayil who is having his BBL break through season with Alba Berlin is another guy where there is possible NBA buzz brewing. He knows how valuable the weeks were with him last summer and knows how good his chances would be in a 1-1 duel in practice. “Jack is great player but also a really good team leader. I think leading a team is a quality from him I can learn from. If I make all my shots and if we play make it take it, it could be a close game“, expressed Musa Abra. Is the NCAA a goal for him in the future and is he more of a NBA or Euroleague guy? “College Is the goal for me for the next years and my biggest goal is to play in the NBA”, warned Musa Abra. It seems like the German march to the NBA will continue in the next years with so many great German talents. Why not another one with Musa Abra? The German wave of young prospects has never been as strong and as exciting as now.

Mario Matic Has Allowed Nedzad Muratovic (TSV Oberaching Tropics)To Be A Scoring Monster Something He Wasn´t Allowed To Do Before In His Career

Nedzad Muratovic (201-F-1995) is a 30 year old 201cm forward from Bosnia playing his second season with TSV Oberaching Tropics. He has gathered experience over the years playing in his home land Bosnia as well as Serbia, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Spain. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Nedzad for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward/center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

That is easy. Toni Kukoc. I used to watch a lot of videos on him. Most of my moves I got from him. He was bigger though.

You’re a player that can score and rebound the ball and has a three pointer. Would you classify yourself as a modern big man?

Yes I would, but a 4 and not a 5. I can play the 5 in the pro B if needed.

You have become a very good rebounder in Germany. Is that more because the team is lacking height or improvements in your game?

I think that it has helped my rebounding with Oberaching because there is a lack of height on the team. But I also have been forced to have to get more rebounds. I did have 22 rebounds in a game in Slovenia. I´m more of a double double guy. With Oberaching it is more about the numbers.

What kind of a defender would you classify yourself right now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I´m big, but also kind of lazy and slow. But my long arms help me. I try to be a leader as best as possible.

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

I´m trying to improve as a 5 man. I used to be more of a pick and pop guy, but I do the roll if needed. It´s all a little new, but I can do it.

You played with OKK Sloboda Tuzla in young years. Did you have a mentor at that time?

I was always the youngest. There were many veterans and I always listened and respected them. I had a rough start there, but it was all good after. We had a big fan base there. I learned a lot from coach Dusko Vujosevic.

From 2016-2018 you averaged 9/4 with OKK Sloboda Tuzla. How did your game grow in those years?

My coach motivated me to practice with the first team. I was 17 when I practiced with the senior team. I learned the pick and roll there and important small details.

You played with Rio Ourense Termal (Spain-LEB Gold) in the 2018-2019 season averaging 4.0ppg, 2.3rpg. What kind of an experience was that? How do you remember the basketball at that time in the Leb Gold?

At first I didn´t know that I would go there. It happened then within a few days. It was all brand new there and had to start at 0. I was the back up at the 4, but also played the 3.

You won twice against FC Barcelona 2 and scored in double figures and played against future NBA player Leandro Bolmaro. What do you remember most from those 2 battles?

I remember the home game most. We needed 2-3 more wins to reach the playoffs. Beating Barcelona was uplifting. This was the game where my friend got injured and I had to finish the game with heavy minutes.

You also played a season with OKK Novi Pazar (Serbia-KLS) averaging 10.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 19.6%, FT: 67.2%. What was it like playing in Serbia after playing mostly in Bosnia?

Serbia was a lot of fun. The league had 18 teams and each team had a history with each team. We had crazy games. It was during Covid, so the arenas were empty. We finished somewhere 5-6 when we were predicted to be a team that would fight to remain in the league. It was a big success for the club.

You played parts of 2 seasons with Terme Olimia Podcetrtek (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM). How would you compare the Slovenian league in comparison to leagues in Bosnia and Serbia?

All those leagues are kind of similar. Guys move from league to league. I feel like that skill wise, Slovenia was the best league out of the 3. The travel was good. The farthest game was 2 hours by bus while in Spain it was 13 hours.

You came late to the TSV Oberhaching Tropics Deisenhofen (Germany-ProB) last season averaging 15.5ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 55.6%. Is it fair to say that you have found a second home in Oberaching?

Yes that is right. All helped me get adjusted and feel comfortable. When I came form Bosnia, I had no working Visa. Mario allowed me to practice with the team. I´m really thankful that Mario gave me that opportunity.

Is it fair to say that head coach Mario Matic gave you the utmost freedom and trust from day 1 to really to let you explore your game? How vital has he been for your game in Germany?

Mario is the number reason why I´m here. I have a brother in Munich and came to be with him. Then I got the chance from Mario. I was always welcome. Mario is a super guy.

How has your game continued to grow in Germany? What part of your game has improved most?

I play more freely. Before Oberaching, if I made a mistake, I landed directly on the bench. It isn´t like that with Mario. Mario lets me paly my game. I love the Pro B. There are many talented teams. I´m very happy in Oberaching. I didn´t regret coming here.

Last season you witnessed the last games of legend Omari Knox. How will you always remember him?

Omari is a very good guy. I have known him the last 3-4 years. He is a very hard worker. I have learned a lot from him. He showed me the ropes in Germany. I have a lot of respect for him.

How special of a player is Jonathan Zeisberger? Is sky the limit for him?

He isn´t limited in any way. It is amazing how he dominates the league at age 18. But he still needs a lot of work to become a playmaker. Now adays point guards are crafted at age 25. When the time is right, he will be a great player.

What goals do you still have in your career?

I want to be a professional and continue to travel. The last offer I had before Oberaching was from a team in Slovakia first division. However I didn´t take it and came to Obercahing. I got married and decided to settle down. 1,5 years have passed now. I don´t know what the future will bring. I want to play at the highest level. But most important is that I´m happy and healthy now.

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

I played against France national team and guys like Nicolas Batum, Nando de Colo, Rudy Gobert and Boris Diaw.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Gasper Skorjanic, Almir Hasandic, Andrzej Pluta, Emir Akemedovic, O Showen Williams.

Please name your NBA, Euroleague and Bosnian Mount Rushmore?

NBA Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry

Euro Bo McCaleb, Vasilios Spanoulis, Dimitrios Diamantidis

Bosnia Mirza Teletovic, Dzan Musa, Kenan Kkamenjas, Mirza Delibasic

Who is your Goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Nezdad for the chat.

Jaleen Smith(Croatian National Team) Has 2 Loves With Germany Being His First Love And Croatia Being His Main Love

pic credit: Brian Laluna

Jaleen Smith (190-PG-1994, college: UNH) is a 31 year old 190cm guard playing his 9th professional season and first with Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-BSL). He played the first 6 professional seasons with the MLP Academics, MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg and Alba Berlin. Last season he played with Bahcesehir Koleji Istanbul (Turkey-BSL) averaging 9.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 81.5%; and in the Eurocup averaged 12.4ppg, 2.7rpg, APG-4 (5.5), 1.1spg, FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT-15 (96.0%). In the 2023-2024 season he split time with Virtus Segafredo Bologna (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 30.8%: and in the Euroleague averaged 5.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 87.5%:, in Dec.’23 moved to KK Partizan Mozzart Bet Beograd (Serbia-KLS) averaging 9.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 2FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career with / Brazosport High School and then played 4 years at the University of New Hampshire (NCAA). He spoke to germanhoops.com before a World Cup qualifying game against Germany.

Thanks Jaleen for talking to germanhoops.com. Your in Croatia at the moment preparing for World Cup qualifying games against Germany. You got Croatian citizenship in August 2022. How much has this enriched your life on and off the court?

It has been so enriching on and off the court. I bought a place in Zagreb last summer. My daughter was born in Croatia. The Croatian basketball federation has been great since day 1. They made the transition for me so easy. I have had 3 coaches since I arrived in 2022. I think like we have more stability now. It all feels like a family here. It really feels like your in a regular club atmosphere with family. This was definitely the best choice I could have done for picking a country to play for.

You have had many great games in a Croatian jersey over the last years. What was your fondest moment so far?

I think it was in the Olympic qualifying tournament against Greece, even if we lost. It was so crazy playing against guys like Luka Doncic and Giannis. You play against top NBA players that you normally wouldn´t play against. You also played against more unknown guys from national teams that you would normally play against. It was overall a great experience.

How do you feel different playing with a Croatian jersey then you would with a USA jersey?

I feel really honored to be able to play for Croatia. I´m the only import on the team. They must have brought me here for a reason. Every day I wonder why did they chose me?. They could of found a better option. Maybe I´m here because of my character and locker room qualities.

How is the state of Croatian basketball? You played at tournaments the lasty ears like the Euro and Olympics, but won no medals. Is there concern in the Croatian basketball community?

I believe there is concern in the media. We are trying to make it back on to the national stage. We missed the Euro last year and now are taking it one step at a time. We aren´t concerned about what the media is saying. We want to present ourselves in the best way possible for the country.

What will it mean for you to play against Germany for the first time? The place where your illustrious pro career began back in 2017?

It is a crazy feeling playing against Germany. I will be playing against former teammates and guys I played against in Germany. It will be nice to see guys like Mattisseck, Olinde, Schneider and Thiemann again and be able to catch up with them. I have 2 loves. Germany was my first home and Croatia is my main home.

If someone had told you in August 2022 that in 4 years Germany would be World champion, and Euro champion what would you have thought?

I knew how Germany´s status was in 2022 shortly before winning the Bronze at the Euro, but I still would never have thought they would win so much in a short time. I would have predicted USA, France or Serbia. They have produced really good player sin the last year and basketball has grown so much in Germany. They have guys dominating in the NBA and even if they aren´t playing in these windows, there are other guys holding up the standard.

Obviously the Germans have had great players the last years, but how much is discipline and their mentality a part of the success?

They have been consistent the last few years and successful and that has made them be locked in at all times. They know that they are good, but they won´t get out of character. Everybody knows their roles. You have to give a lot of credit to Gordon Herbert. He forced his players to play the right way. Mumbru´s style is good while they still have the discipline.

What is your impression of the German roster? Obviously there aren´t any of the NBA guys there. You have faced off against so many of these guys the last years?

I have played against all of them. The roster is good. They have a few Euroleague and Eurocup players. They still have high quality guys. Even if there are some young guys, you still need to respect them.

What will it be like seeing and playing against Jonas Mattissek? What kind of an relationship did you have back in the day?

He was a great teammate that brought you shooting and much intensity on defense. I´m excited to play against him again and see how his game has evolved in the last years.

You also were teammates with Johannes Thiemann, Louis Olinde and Tim Schneider. If you look back on the years with them, with what guy did you have the best relationship with?

I think it was Tim Schneider. He was a real good dude. I still have contact to this day. He is out of Germany for the first time in Japan. His wife is Croatian. It will be fun to chop it up again with him.

The German guards of the future look really good with Christian Anderson, but also Jack Kayil who will go to play in the NCAA and is touted for a possible NBA draft pick. What do you know about him?

I played against him in pre season when he was with Mega. He is pretty good. He had no big role with Mega, but now he runs the offense in Berlin. I will be probably matched up against him. I´m looking forward to it.

The Croatian team is very experienced. They are deep at the bigs and have a big talent with Roko Prkacin. What other talents should one be on the watch for in the future?

We have some young guys coming up the ranks. One of those is Michael Ruzic. He is a NBA prospect. He had a good showing in the last window. Now he has the opportunity to go up against some quality bigs with Germany.

How important is it having Dario Saric on board from the NBA? He seems to have put the NBA on the back burner and will play in Europe now?

It´s big time. Usually he was only available in the summer, but now we have in also other windows. I hope he goes back to the NBA, but if not better for us. It is good that he is back in Croatia now and is happy.

Mario Hezonja is such a special player. What have you learned to appreciate the most about his game over the years?

Mario is a dog. He is really good with Real Madrid, but when he is with the national team, he is a different beast. He odes it all for us.

Germany likes too play fast under Spanish head coach Alex Mumbru. What kind of a game can we await and what will be key to winning both games?

Germany has that Spanish style and will try to push it. We have to focus on keeping it in the half-court. Germany brings toughness and we will have to match it and rebound well.

You will return to Bonn on Sunday. What was your fondest moment in the Telekom Dome?

I remember the TJ Shorts team. They did us dirty. I remember we beat the Parker Jackson-Cartwright team. I can remember the arena atmosphere. I won´t forget it.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Goran Filipovic?

I think Goran will win. He is so fast and can shoot.

Thanks Jaleen for the chat.

Zac Watson(RheinStars) Has Shown Consistency Overseas But To Become Great Knows He Has To Always Be Consistent

Zac Watson (201-F-2000, college: Longwood)s a 26 year old 201cm forward playing his third pro season and first in Germany with the RheinStars Cologne currently averaging 5,1ppg and 3,4rpg. Last season he played with BK Ventspils (Lat-Est BL) averaging 11.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 80.2%. He split his rookie season with Frederick Achilleas Kaimakliou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 15.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 49.2%, 3FGP: 24.6%, FT: 73.0%, in Mar.’24 moved to Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 20.8ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 75.0%. He began his basketball career at Liberty high school and then played 2 seasons at the University of California Riverside (NCAA) averaging 6.1ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 50.8% and 2.8ppg, 3.0rpg. He then moved to Longwood College (NCAA) playing 3 seasons and 94 NCAA games averaging 5.7ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.8%, FT: 57.1%, 7.7ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 80.7% and 7.5ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 78.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Zac for talking to germanhoops.com. After stops in Cyprus, Luxemburg and Latvia, your now playing in Germany. Would you call yourself a young basketball globetrotter?

Nice to talk with you Miles! And yeah I guess you could say that. I’ll be playing in my 4th country in 3 years, and being a globetrotter hasn’t necessarily been my goal but I’ve enjoyed it.

It seems like you are having to pay your dues overseas. What has personally been your biggest challenge with mastering everything overseas on a daily basis?

I would say the biggest thing has been playing with consistency. I’m showing that I can play with anyone, but the great players always play consistently. There is less room to be able to just write games off as ‘eh, just a bad game.’

Your playing your first pro season in Germany with the RheinStars Cologne. Have you had any former teammates or opponents play in Germany over the years?

I have a former teammate that will also be playing in German ProA this year actually, Miles Tention. I’m sure there will be other guys playing in Germany I have crossed paths with before that I just don’t know about yet.

What was most appealing to you with this organization? They have a very rich history.

It was really a combination of things that drew me to the RheinStars. The team is on an upswing in the last couple years, obviously with the promotion back up to Pro A for this season. Talking with coach Stephan also gave me great confidence in the decision but overall it’s a historic team in a historic city and I’m excited to take advantage of the opportunity.

How did the talks go with Stephan Baack? Did you know that he is a German basketball legend?

Yeah like I mentioned, speaking with Coach Stephan was a big factor in helping me choose to play for RheinStars. He’s very easy to talk to, honest, and knowledgeable. I didn’t know he’s a legend though. I’ll have to ask him about that.

What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

He’s very in tune with how the game is going, in the sense of playing with pace, attacking early, and putting players in multiple positions. I will obviously know more when I get involved with the team, but I can tell that coach has a great basketball mind.

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

Aaron Gordon, Rui Hachimura are guys I see myself playing like. Originally guys that were athletic forwards but have continued to improve their shots and playmaking.

You’re a physical and athletic player that gives his team many things. Talk about your biggest strengths on offense?

I’d say my biggest strength offensively is my versatility, being able to fit quickly into different schemes and make the right reads. Shooting and attacking in transition are coming as well.

Your three pointer still seems to be a work in progress. How have you seen the development of your three pointer overseas? What is your biggest goal in Germany with your three pointer?

Yeah it’s encouraging to see the improvements happening from year to year. First it was being comfortable taking them, then hitting open ones consistently, and now hitting more difficult shots or over a contest if necessary. I want to shoot 40% from 3 again this year and be a real threat.

You also have a very good defensive game and can block shots well for your size. What kind of a defender would you call yourself now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I feel like I anticipate the game very well. That helps me stay in position and be a solid defender. I also take on the challenge in defending guards on switches in the half court. Being able to guard multiple positions is huge.

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

I’m focused on my ball handling much more now. Making multiple moves and playing against pressure specifically. That and shooting on the move.

Last season you played with BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 75.9%; and in the Lat-Est BL averaged 11.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 80.2%. What was it like playing for one of Latvian’s best known basketball organizations? What was your fondest moment there?

I really loved my time in Ventspils. I learned and grew a lot as a player with coach Fogels, and they’re a great organization to play for. My proudest moment has to be sweeping Zelli to get to the LBL finals. But even day to day I loved working with the guys on the team and I enjoyed the little things like the road trips and just hanging out.

During the season you played an incredible 9 times against VEF Riga. How crazy was that? I’m sure at the end you knew every move by Cleary and Lawrence.

Yeah that was my first time experiencing something like that. I always wondered what it was like for NBA guys to get to Game 7’s in a playoff situation. But yeah you get to know the other team really well and like I spoke about before that’s where being consistent is the most important because you’re not catching anyone by surprise.

You split your rookie season with Frederick Achilleas Kaimakliou (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging 15.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 49.2%, 3FGP: 24.6%, FT: 73.0%, in Mar.’24 moved to Kordall Steelers Rodange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 20.8ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 75.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

I don’t know if there was a specific time where I had that realization, but a handful of little moments. Just kind of a small feeling of being alone. The days of grinding overseas can add up just like any job, but being away from friends and family has an added weight.

How vital was this season in your career? You had come from the NCAA as a guy that never averaged more than 7,0ppg and then bang in 2 countries was a main scoring guy. What did you learn from this season?

My rookie season was huge for me. It was a struggle but it was very necessary. I had to put in long hours to make that transition to a wing more so than an undersized big. Having the ball in my hands was crucial for that to happen.

You played at the University Of Riverside (NCAA) from 2018-2020 averaging 6.1ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 50.8% and 2.8ppg, 3.0rpg. Your minutes dipped from 18 to 12 in your last season. What positives could you get from this experience and how did your game develop there?

It was a wake up call that basically just showed me I needed to work harder. That’s really it. I needed to find another opportunity, but also work harder and get better.

In your freshman season you scored 25 points in a blow out win against Bethesda. What memories do you have of that game?

I don’t remember that much about that game to be honest. I do remember hitting a few 3’s which back then was out of character lol. But it kind of felt good to see it’s at least possible to score like that with time.

You then finished and played 3 years at Longwood College (NCAA) averaging 5.7ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 61.8%, FT: 57.1%, 7.7ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 80.7% and 7.5ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 78.7%. How important were these 3 years for you? Was it one of your best basketball decisions?

I would make the decision to play at Longwood 10/10 times again. Statistically they were all very similar years but I progressed a lot mentally at Longwood.

You won the Big South title in 2022. What memories do you have of beating Winthrop and then playing at March Madness against Tennessee?

I remember getting to the championship game and being so confident in us winning I had no worries going into the game. We put so much work in that year it was only right. Then playing Tennessee, okay, we lost by a lot but only so many people can say they played in a March Madness game. The experience was worth it.

How did Griff Aldrich prepare you best for a pro career?

The most valuable teaching I got from coach Griff was how to approach practices. You need to practice in October thinking about March, or in a pro season, April or May when playoffs start. He was always adamant about noticing complacency and addressing it. He taught me how to really be aware of my habits and my daily mindset.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Michael Christmas?

We actually never played 1 on 1 games like that. For a lot of the time we were at Longwood together he was hurt. But today, it could go either way.

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

A few guys from Dallas I played against growing up are in the NBA now. Jalen Wilson, Tyrese Maxey. Good guys. Another guy is Mason Jones who is with Sacramento right now.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

It’s impossible to pick just 5. But I’ll say Leslie Nkereuwem, Jordan Perkins, Nate Lliteras, Dragan Elkaz, and Isaiah Wilkins

Please list your personal NBA, German and Serbian Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

Personal: LeBron, MJ, Curry, and Shaq

German: Dirk, Schroder, Hartenstein has been good lately, and the Wagner brothers I guess. I don’t know too many German players off the top of my head.

Serbia: Jokic, Peja Stojakovic, Bogdanovic, and Vlade Divac

Who is your Goat?

LeBron easily

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

I’ve never seen the sequel so I can’t really speak on it honestly lol

Thanks Zac for the chat.