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Jamie Edoka´s 34 Points And Ivan Crnjac´s Game Winner Powers Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners Over Ratiopharm Ulm 89-88 IN NBBL Playoff Action

Whenever it starts to get warmer and it´s March, you have March madness in the United States where all the young talented players battle, while in Germany, the youth playoffs also start. Eintracht Frankfurt had a solid season starting 8-0, but lost the season series to FC Bayern Munich and finished the season at 11-3. In the first round of the playoffs, they had a real real tough best of 3 game playoff series with ratiopharm Ulm who had an unbeaten season at 13-0. They are a explosive scoring squad that scored over 100 points 5 times including a 136 points destruction of the Rhein Neckar Metropolitans and never scored less than 82 points in a game. But one had to remember that ratiopharm Ulm played in the B division which had weaker competition. Eintracht Frankfurt had the big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog and 2 great role players with Maximilian Peters and Julius Messer, but the big question was could they overcome the deeper roster of ratiopharm Ulm who have so much talent that they have 2 starting 5 teams equally as strong. On a mild Sunday afternoon, ratiopharm Ulm came to Frankfurt despite 8 of the 10 NBBL player that played in Frankfurt were coming off an incredible upset win the day before in the Pro B over top team RheinStars, but despite having played 24 hours earlier were ready to compete for 40 minutes, but lost a heartbreaker on a game winner from Ivan Crnjac. This contest truly deserved no loser. One could observe quickly after the game that ratiopharm Ulm head coach Florian Flabb wasn´t overjoyed with losing such a tight game. “Congrats to Frankfurt to the win. We weren´t able to bring the defensive intensity that we wanted. We will try to do better next weekend”, stressed Florian Flabb. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners weren´t the favorite on paper, but they played with so much heart and always stuck together during all lows of the game. “We played a good game. This was a classic game of runs. We never hung our heads and always stayed together. The most important thing in this win was that we always gave our best when we needed it most”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners forward Ivan Crnjac. “This was a great youth game. There were many great individual performances and team play. We stuck together until the end”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners head coach Thore Bethke.

Namori Omog at the FT line

The experience factor that ratiopharm Ulm had over Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was overwhelming as they had over 140 Pro B games experience just in this season. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners came out punching as the guests weren´t able to match their intensity in the first 2 minutes as Frankfurt led 6-3 with attacking the rim and aggressive defense. Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008) made 2 big blocks and made a lay in while Namori Omog supplied 4 points. However it didn´t take ratiopharm Ulm long to find a groove as Croatian player Niko Jerkic and U-18 EM gold medalist Jordan Mueller dropped three´s to dead lock the game at 8-8. Both teams had a sound offensive rhythm as they traded 4 lead changes, but Frankfurt would regain the lead on Ivan Crnjac´s lay in on transition to lead 15-12 and never lose the lead again in the first quarter. Both teams stayed away from the bomb from outside, but rather stuck to the drive and the mid distance game. Frankfurt got a 20 footer by Edoka and a runner from Crnjac while ratiopharm Ulm got a 25 footer from Oliver Kullamae who is the son of Bamberg legend Gerd Kullamae, but Frankfurt led 19-16. German Jervis Scheffs who loves the shifty game made a lay in and Edoka an off balance shot to give Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners the 21-18 advantage after 10 minutes. “I sensed after one quarter that this would be a game at eye level. They are a deep and strong team. We had some problems with the pick and roll defense, but we took away their three pointer”, stated Ivan Crnjac.

Chris Widmer to the hole

The second quarter saw 3 runs with ratiopharm Ulm gaining 2 of them and the slim 41-38 advantage at half-time. Omog began the second quarter with a off balance shot to give Frankfurt the 23-18 lead, but ratiopharm Ulm then punched back with a lethal 13-0 run stealing the lead back and leading comfortably 31-23. In the run, ratiopharm Ulm was led by Jordan Mueller who supplied 8 points. He hit a trey and added 5 free throws. His ability to read the defense and pick his spots and quickness helped him be successful. Young German Milo Murray also added a lay in while Dutch big man Endurance Aiyamenkhue also made a lay in. This could have been a time where Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners would continue to cave in, but no they kept their chests held high and rebounded with a 10-2 run to dead lock the game at 33-33. In the run, Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 5 points who never looked back and was always in attack mode as he drew a foul and scored while Ivan Crnjac made a lay in and German Julius Messer a tip in. Frankfurt presented a zone that gave ratiopharm Ulm problems with their offensive execution. However the run party of the second quarter wasn´t over as Ulm responded on a 8-2 run shortly before the break to lead 41-35. In the run the guests were led by Kullamae who is a pass first point guard, but in this phase showed that he could also lead a team with his scoring. He added 5 points getting to the free throw line. With a few seconds left Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had to inbounds the ball in their own end and somehow got the ball up to Ivan Crnjac a little past center court and he heaved up an acrobatic shot that looked like a Nikola Jokic shot from last season and saw it bank into the net. The BCM gym was rocking and Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners trailed only 41-38 at the break. “My shot felt good when I released it. I knew it would be short or go in. That shot gave us an added push going into the break. It helped us mentally as well”, commented Ivan Crnjac. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 41% from the field and 27% from outside and had 22 rebounds and 4 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 43% from the field and 17% from outside and had 16 rebounds and 1 turnover. “We didn´t communicate well on defense in the second quarter. We got away from our defensive principles”, stated Ivan Crnjac.

Ivan Crnjac with the half time buzzer beater

In the third quarter ratiopharm Ulm controlled the lead for a few minutes and led by as much as 9 points, but Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners never gave up and struck back going on a 20-5 run and get their lead back at 68-66 after 30 minutes. Ratiopharm Ulm came out pumped after the Crnjac buzzer beater and quickly went on a 9-3 run to lead 50-41. In the run the guests got 2 buckets on the drive from Jerkic and a 3 pointer from role player Barna Buglyo and another lay in by Aiyamenkhue. Frankfurt continued to have problems with the pick and roll defense and 1-1 defense. Ulm also slowed down Edoka better in the run. But Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners always had an answer for Ulm´s runs and this time unleashed a brutal 20-5 run to steal the lead back again at 61-55. Mr lightening speed Namori Omog led the charge with11 points as his quick first step and drive gave him good chances for the easy basket while Jamie Edoka added 9 points as he pretty much was successful with the same formula as Omog with his drive. There was a sequence where Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners scored 6 points in a span of 5-7 seconds. Edoka had a lay in and then 2 consecutive steals under the Ulm basket led to 2 baskets by Omog. “That was so important getting those quick baskets. It hyped our bench and gave us a lot of self-confidence”, expressed ivan Crnjac. However ratiopharm Ulm stayed strong and stayed with Frankfurt and rebounding from Frankfurt´s big run punching back with a 10-2 run as ratiopharm Ulm got lead back at 65-63. Jonas Zilinskas gave good support with 5 points getting to the free throw line. However Frankfurt stayed tough getting to the free throw line getting free throws from Edoka and Julius Messer for the 2 point lead after 3 quarters.” We began bad, but came back strong to end the quarter. Edoka was vital in helping us comeback”, added Ivan Crnjac. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 19% from the three point line and had 25 rebounds and 4 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 41% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 7 turnovers.

Niko Jerkic at the FT line

In the fourth quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were able to build on their lead and lead by 10 points with 4 minutes to play, but the script in this thriller had one more run to give to ratiopharm ulm, but they couldn´t get the win on the last possession. In the first 4 possessions of the fourth quarter, both teams executed well as Frankfurt got baskets from Edoka and Finley Pruever while Ratiopharm Ulm got baskets from Jerkic and Danish youth national player Frederik Erichsen, but Frankfurt had the slim 72-70 advantage. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners then wanted to decide the game and overpowered ratiopharm Ulm with a vicious 14-6 run to extend their lead to 86-76. In the run Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Jamie Edoka with 7 points. As usual his drive was unstoppable, but he also sprayed in a three pointer. He finished the game with 34 points and was as humble as usual about his game. “Anyone on our team can score 34 points. Today it was just my turn”, said Jamie Edoka. Messer also added a tip in a thunderous 2 handed dunk. “I always could do a 2 handed dunk”, smiled Julius Messer. However ratiopharm ulm still had one punch in them totally shocking Frankfurt with a 11-1 run to snatch the lead back at 88-87 with 18 seconds remaining. In the run, the guests were led by Jordan Mueller who had 8 points including 2 three´s from each corner. “Mueller played very well. He is so quick and hit big three´s”, stated Jamie Edoka. “We made some defensive mistakes. We didn´t defend well on Mueller. We were already mentally secure with the win”, said Ivan Crnjac. With 18 seconds to play, Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had possession and Ivan Crnjac made the finger tip lay in for the 89-88 lead. “I broke out of the play. I felt good making that lay in with the spin. I actually tried that before from the other side during the Top 4”, stated Ivan Crnjac. “Ivan showed what kind of a great individual abilities he has. He was there for the team making that big basket”, said Thore Bethke. Ratiopharm Ulm had possession with 3,7 seconds to play, but Julius Messer made the big defensive game deflecting the ball to his teammate to end the game. “Julius had a great week of practice. He made a big steal. He had a great game and was mentally tough”, stressed Thore Bethke. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Jamie Edoka with 34 points while Namori Omog added 20 points and Ivan Crnjac had 18 points and ratiopharm Ulm was led by Jordan Mueller with 22 points while Niko Jerkic had 14 pointzs and Oliver Kullamae added 11 points. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 49% from the field and 20% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 4 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 45% from the field and 35% from the parking lot and had 37 rebounds and 12 turnovers.

Dragos Diculescu Explodes For 32 Points Leading BG Hessing Leitershofen Past The Dragons Rhondorf In Overtime 84-77

The tail spin of the Pro B season is in full swing as there were 5 teams from position 5-10 all with 10 wins as it couldn´t be more exciting. The Dragons Rhondorf have had an up and down season and were in a dog fight to reach the playoffs currently in position 9- After a massive win against Team Ehingen where their scoring was on spot again with 97, they wanted to extend their winning streak and momentum, but it wouldn´t be a cake walk against BG Leitershofen the number 1 team in the Pro B south. The Dragons Rhondorf were able to stay with them in the first meeting, but lost 115-105 showing they could score a lot. The Dragons would need all they had and more in the return game. On a mild Saturday night, the Dragons Rhondorf welcomed BG Leitershofen and sought revenge and played an incredible game and could of won the game in regulation, but BG Hessing Leitershofen forced overtime and then showed what potential title teams are made of as they dominated the last 5 minutes 9-2 winning 84-77. The Dragons Rhondorf gave BG Hessing Leitershofen a great fight, but a game isn´t always 40 minutes, but at times 45 minutes and the guests executed a way lot better and took a run and momentum from the end of the fourth quarter into the overtime. “We knew coming in that they were a very good team. They have a nice combo of experienced guys and young guys. It was a big fight and I´m very proud how the team played. We stayed together and had that next man mentality. At the end the difference was our effort. The Dragons have amazing fans and they are a lot better than their record shows”, stressed BG Hessing Leitershofen Romanian Dragos Diculescu (196-G/F-1999, agency: One Motive Sports). The Dragons Rhondorf gave an amazing fight, but just couldn´t get the job done in the overtime period as they allowed easy baskets and couldn´t execute on offense. “Once again we didn´t play consistent for 40 minutes. I honestly felt like we played the better basketball. Diculescu hit tough shot after tough shot. This was a tough loss for us. We rebounded very well, fought hard and held them to 84 points”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Alexander Lagerman.

Asa Williams at the FT line

BG Hessing Leitershofen came out with a lot of energy and totally surprised the Dragons Rhondorf getting the rapid 12-3 advantage. Their on ball defense was one of the best the Dragons had seen this season as they coughed up the ball many times. Kelvin Omojola really suffered having 4 turnovers before 4 minutes were even played. The motor of BG Hessing Leitershofen is Dragos Diculescu and he supplied 6 points in the run while ex Iserlohn forward Elias Marei scored 2 buckets as the team was using it´s big strength with scoring inside. BG Hessing Leitershofen had 6 steals in the run and their great defense led to easy baskets. However basketball is a game of runs and the Dragons Rhondorf recovered and closed out the first quarter in fantastic fashion with a lethal 16-6 run to lead 19-18 after 10 minutes. In the run the Dragons Rhondorf played more aggressive especially on the offensive glass where they had the 6-0 offensive rebound edge after 10 minutes. Ex Frankfurt guard Lagerman was really key in the run getting a few offensive rebounds that led to a put back by him and a trey from ex Drake (NCAA) guard Antonio Pilpovic, while Tim Smith also added an offensive rebound and put back. Lagerman also nailed a three pointer and ex RheinStar Kenan Reinhart also made a jumper. “We began well with the right intensity and made the right plays. We caught them off guard at the start with aggressive defense. We have to play more like that if we want to win the title. But basketball is a game of runs and they came back well to regain the lead”, stressed Dragos Diculescu. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 31% from the 2 point area and 50% from outside and had 13 rebounds and 6 turnovers while BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 88% from the 2 point area and 0% from outside and had 6 rebounds and 2 turnovers.

Antonio Pilipovic from outside

In the second quarter both teams continued to battle as there were 7 lead changes, but at half-time, BG Hessing Leitershofen had the upper hand with the 43-37 lead. In the first 3-4 minutes, there was an exchange of punches as it went back and forth with the trading of the lead 7 times. Tim Smith Jr took that go to guy role in the first minutes adding 5 points while Diculescu continued to be the go to guy adding 5 points as well. But the Dragons Rhondorf had the lead out of the punching back and forth being aggressive and attacking the rim as Reinhart and ex BBC Bayreuth center Marco Rahn scored for the 30 -27 lead. But BG Hessing Leitershofen upped their defensive pressure and aggressiveness again which led to a lethal 10-0 run as BG Hessing Leitershofen led 36-30. Diculescu continued to dominate dropping a trey while Elias Marei did a great job finding his spots and agility to get 2 easy baskets while ex IBAM guard Tim Udovicic made a lay in. The Dragons Rhondorf had a bad phase making bad decisions and coughing up the ball. However energy bunny Marco Rosic made a massive trey to cut the BG Hessing Leitershofen lead down to 36-33. However the Dragons Rhondorf couldn´t match BG Hessing Leitershofen´s intensity as they closed out the second quarter strong as American Ása Williams made a lay in and Elias Marei made a lay while ex Rosenheim guard Bastian Marz made a big trey from the corner. Rhondorf continued to rebound very well having the 8-1 offensive rebound edge at the break. The Marei and Udovicic show was instrumental for BG Hessing Leitershofen getting the lead and keeping it at the break. “Tim and Elias are our energy guys that do the dirty work. We all played as a unit and sacrificed for each other”, stated Dragos Diculescu. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 79% from the 2 point area and 20% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 41% from the 2 point area and 33% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Elias Marei with the lay in

In the third quarter BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to keep the slight lead as the Dragons Rhondorf remained on their heels, but a last minute burst of energy allowed the Dragons to have the 61-59 lead after 30 minutes. The Dragons Rhondorf began hot going on a 4-0 run as Marco Rahn made a lay in and Kenan Reinhart scored on transition, but BG Hessing Leitershofen still had the 43-41 lead. But BG Hessing Leitershofen didn´t allow the Dragons run to grow more, but played nice inside out basketball getting a trey from Bastian Marz and lay in´s by American Christian Hinckson and Diculescu for the 50-43 advantage. BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to get easy baskets and get consecutive stops, but the Dragons continued to do a good job staying close. Role player Mamadou Diallo made a big trey and Tim Smith Jr hit a turn around shot as the Dragons Rhondorf trailed only 50-48. Both teams continued to go back and forth and Tim Smith executed 3 free trhows to tie the game at 53-53. However the Dragons Rhondorf couldn´t get the lead yet as BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to keep the pressure on especially on offense as Hinckson scored in the paint and role player Noel Duarte made free throws for the 59-55 lead with a minute to go. However the Dragons Rhodnorf saved their best for last nailing back to back three´s from Smith Jr and Kelvin Omojola who made his first field goal of the game. “We lost some aggressiveness on defense and didn´t make the best decisions on offense and rushed our shots”, added Dragos Diculescu. “We hit tough shots and got stops. We did a good job rebounding and getting extra possessions off offensive rebounds”, commented Alelxander Lagerman. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 45% from the 2 point area and 35% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 12 turnovers while BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 65% from the 2 point area and 17% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 3 turnovers.

Tim Smith Jr at the Ft line

In the fourth quarter it looked like the Dragons Rhondorf might run away with the game, but basketball wouldn´t be basketball without runs. The Dragons Rhondorf began well like in the third quarter, but here went on a 7-2 run to lead 68-61. In the run, the Dragons Rhondorf got another big shot from Omojola, while Lagerman tested his 53% form outside making a trey and Danas Kazakevicius made a lay in. The Dragons Rhondorf defended with high intensity and didn´t allow BG Hessing Leitershofen anything easy on offense in the run. However they couldn´t hold the momentum as BG Hessing Leitershofen punched back with a devastating 12-4 run to recapture the lead back at 73-72. In the run, BG Hessing Leitershofen got great effort from Marei with a lay in while Marz and Hinckson hit three´s and as usual Diculescu was unstoppable with 2 lay in´s. Diculescu finished with an explosive game with 32 points and 11 boards. “I knew that I had to bring a lot of energy. I had to get the 50/50 balls and rebounds. I´m known as being a good outside shooter, but tonight I did it the hard way, but went to the basics getting most of my points in side”, stated Dragos Diculescu. Rosic then hit a huge three pointer for the 75-73 advantage. But BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to execute getting a lay in by Diculescu late to tie the game at 75-75. The Dragons Rhondorf had one more attempt, but Antonmio Pilipovic´s shot didn´t want to fall. “We never gave up. We scrambled a lot getting offensive and defensive rebounds. We never stopped believing. They had us on the ropes, but nobody landed the final punch in regulation”, expressed Dragos Diculescu. “They made a run at the end. We didn´t play with confidence, but played more with fear and played safe”, said Alexander Lagerman. BG Hessing Leitershofen dominated the overtime period going on a rapid 6-0 run to lead 81-75. In the run, BG Hessing Leitershofen got 2 buckets from Diculescu and a lay in by Marei. BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to go to their bread butter of going inside and executed well. “They took the momentum of their run in the fourth into OT and did what they did best which was going inside. Our confidence went down more with every new basket that they made. We played handball and couldn´t adjust to their zone”, warned Alexander Lagerman. Kazakevicius finally got Rhondorf on the board, but it was too little too late. Diculescu scored one last basket to seal the win. “I told my teammates before OT that these are the moments that we practice for. We showed that we were best prepared. We won the hard way getting 2 point baskets instead of going for three´s where we could have had a bigger lead”, stated Dragos Diculescu. BG Hessing Leitershofen was led by Dragos Dicullescu with 32 points while Elias Marei added 14 points while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Tim Smith Jr with 20 points while Alexander Lagerman added 16 points. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 43% from the field and 18% from outside and ahd 42 rebounds and 6 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 36% from the field and 28% from outside and had 50 rebounds and 16 turnovers.

Justin Anderson (FC Barcelona) Will Never Forget The Talks With Dirk Nowitzki On Plane Rides Or His Teammates Shouting Stay Down And Don’t Jump Against Kobe Bryant

Pic credit: FC Barcelona

Justin Anderson (198-G/F-1993, college: Virginia, agency: Octagon Europe) is a 31 year old 198cm forward from Maryland playing his 10th professional season and first with FC Barcelona Lassa (ACB) currently averaging 8,5ppg and 2,8rpg in the ACB and 6,8ppg and 2,8rpg in the Euroleague. He played parts of 6 seasons in the NBA with teams playing a total of 257 games for teams like Dallas, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Brooklyn, Cleveland and Indiana. Last season was his first overseas playing with Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (Spain-ACB) averaging 11.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 89.3%; and in the Euroleague averaged 6.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.8apg, 2.3spg, 1.0bpg, in Dec.’23 moved to Valencia Basket (Spain-Liga ACB) averaging 8.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT-1 (91.9%), 2.2rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.2%. He began his basketball career at Montrose Christian school and then played with the University of Virginia from 2012-2015.He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Euroleague game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks Justin for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with FC Barcelona. What kind of an experience has it been? What has been the coolest experience you have had off the court?

I have to be honest that I don’t do much off the court. I’m very generic. I live close to the beach at home so I would have to say going to the beach.

In the NBA you saw all the cities and now in your second Euroleague season many historic cities. Currently your in Berlin. Has there been a city in Europe that has impacted you most?

This question makes me realize just how much of a basketball head I am. I’m used to the bus to the hotel to the gym routine. I enjoyed being in Greece, but also our trip to Bologna . I got some authentic food for my wife. It was enjoyable

It hasn’t been a great season for FC Barcelona. In the ACB and Euroleague fighting for the playoffs. What does the team have to do better in next weeks to get more wins?

We just have to continue to take the next step.

How talented is Italian player Dame Sarr? Are you like a mentor to him?

He is very talented, but already been a pro for 1-2 years. We all just try to be a good teammate for him. He has a very bright future. He has a great work ethic. He has to wait his turn.

You are playing at the highest level overseas in the ACB and Euroleague. Is the NBA still an option for you in the future?

You will have to ask some of the scouts. I’m really enjoying my opportunity overseas with FC Barcelona. My talent and experience got me here. I’m continuing my journey overseas and continue to be presented with good opportunities I’m a kind of focus on now guy.

Last season you played with 2 ACB teams. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I didn’t have a wake up call. I was already 30 years old. I think that I did a good job coming in and preparing for overseas basketball. I asked a lot of questions to legends who had played overseas. When I go overseas, I hit the ground running and was ready.

You played 3 years at the University of Virginia winning the ACC title and reaching the big dance. How did head coach Tony Bennet groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Bennett made me have to earn everything as a freshman. I came to Virginia as a very high recruited player. He told me already in high school that I would have to work hard for everything. I always had to prove myself. He also helped me go into the direction of coaching one day. He motivated so much to go that direction one. My dad was a coach. So in a way, I have 2 dads with my dad and Tony Bennett as a father figure.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Malcolm Brogdon?

Malcolm used to destroy me in school. He was more the fundamental player and I was very athletic. I liked showing the highlight plays. He got the best of then, but in the pro’s it was a different story. I’m really happy how he has grown as a player over the years especially with his leadership going form team to team and being a great leader.

You played your first 2 seasons in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks playing 106 games. What do you remember from your first NBA game against the Phoenix Suns scoring a basket in 3 minutes of action?

I remember sitting at the end of the bench and just waiting for the most part of the game. I remember making a lay up in transition. It was then that I realized wow this just happened.

You were teammates with German Dirk Nowitzki. Everyone who played with him have their special story. What is yours?

There isn’t just 1 story. He is a legend and the whole globe knows it. I just call him 6 as the sixth all-time leading scorer. He had a strong appeal on me especially with his work ethic. He had so much humility and was always available to me. I remember sitting next to him on the plane and I would try to soak up so much from him. I learned so much from him and also his trainer Holger especially about the art of shooting.

In your 8th pro game, you lost to the Lakers 90-82 and witnessed Kobe Bryant score 19 points. It was the only time you would play against him. Is that one of those games that will always stick with you?

He gave a lot of points to Wes Matthews. I was only responsible for 2 points. I just tried to prepare as much as I could seeing how he moved and worked on the floor before I came in. That way I would be prepared. I remember my teammates telling me stay down and don’t jump. He was so calm. In the first possession he didn’t do much except pass the ball. I was like Ok that wasn’t hard. In the second possession, it was something different that wasn’t major, but then on the third possession he showed his game by picking and choosing his spots so well. He drew the foul on me and went to the free throw line so focused never looking at me. I remember the whole bench yelling at me, ‘Rook don’t jump. His aura is so great. I’m a Lebron guy, but you have to respect everything that Kobe did especially at the end of his career. He retired, then won an Oscar and did so much in the finance world. It was so sad to lose him.

You played against so many great NBA players, but who was the toughest player that you battled at your position?

Jamal Crawford would dance with the ball. He was so unorthodox with his game. JJ Reddick was also tough.

Where do you rate the over the car dunk from Mac McClung at the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest?

Mac Is from Virginia like me. I have known him since his high school days. I think that dunk a few weeks ago cemented him as a top 3 dunker of all-time. He is undeniable in the top 3 if you were to put all his dunks together.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 16

Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats Malik on the huge 121-57 win. How important was this win going ino the last weeks of the regular season?

This win was very important, especially coming back from losing 2 in a row.

How proud were of the team that they didn´t underestimate the team who was missing some key guys?

I was very proud of the team. That showed a lot of character from us. We could’ve just messed around and took that team for granted but everyone played with energy and intensity from start to finish.

You didn´t play. How is the status of your injury? When can you suit up again?

Been doing rehab work on it past couple weeks so I’m trying to be ready for this coming up game.

The score was decided at the break as the RheinStars led 64-31. Did it seem at times like it was men playing against boys?

Well you could tell they had younger guys or guys who don’t play as much playing big minutes and we took advantage of that during the game by not letting them get too much confidence during the game.

Is it fair to say that the RheinStars played a consistent game for 40 minutes. The team allowed only 10 points in the fourth quarter and finished the game strong.

I think we did have a consistent game. I think everyone who played gave good minutes and brought great energy when they were on the floor.

The Rheinstars did so much well. They dominated the boards, had 30 assists and 16 steals. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night?

The defense was great. I feel we were disruptive with our on ball defense

Rower and Hennen combined for 9 points and Remagen and Michels for 41 points. What does that say for the team depth?

With this team it could be anyone’s night any game. We have multiple guys who can score the ball.

You next play Orange Academy who you beat 91-76 on September 28th 2024. What will be key to sweeping the season series?

If we play with the effort and energy we had this past game I think we should be able to take care of business.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Miryne Thomas(Nitra Blue Wings) Wants To Be The Best Version Of Himself On And Off The Court

Miryne Thomas (203-F-1999, college: Kent St., agency: Players Group) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Cleveland, Ohio playing his second professional season with the Nitra Blue Wings (Slovakia-Tipos SBL). He began the season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA) averaging 12.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 61.4%, 3FGP: 36.4%, FT: 84.8%. Last season he played with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 78.2 and then played with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 76.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 69.2%. He began his basketball career with Cleveland Central Catholic High School and then played his freshman year with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (NCAA) averaging 11.2ppg, 7.7rpg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 16.3%, FT: 64.2%. He then played 2 seasons with Ball State University (NCAA) averaging 3.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 7.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 44.6%, FT: 63.2%, and 11.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 66.3%. He played 1 more NCAA season with Kent State University (NCAA) averaging 10.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 72.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time in Germany with Kirchheim.

Thanks Miryne for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second professional season and first in Germany for the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA). What kind of an experience has it been playing for this organization? What have you appreciated most about the experience?

It has been a learning experience. I have appreciated the connection with all in the organization. I bumped heads with coach Igor in the first weeks, but now he is like top 5 funniest coaches that I have worked with. He pushes us to be great.

You came to a very ambitious team with a very talented head coach with Igor Perovic. What were the main reasons for coming?

I didn´t know what to expect. I came to a club that has allowed me to be me on the court. I have freedom and both ends and can be vocal. In my rookie season I wasn´t a driver. There was a muzzle on me. Here it is the exact opposite. Coach gives me freedom.

After coming from Leicester in England, now your playing in the competitive German Pro A? How would you compare the 2 leagues? Would you say from skill level about the same?

I would say that the BBL in the UK is 10-15% better skill wise than in the Pro A. There are 2 types of people. There is the competitor which I am and the showman. The showman is that guy that knows he can do something and does it just to look good. In Kirchheim we have a coach who is a competitor.

What has it been like playing for head coach Igor Perovic. He is always liked by his players. Even guys that played for him say 7-8 years ago still rave about him. Have you ever seen a more calm coach then him?

Igor is my guy. I thought at the start that he didn´t like me. I wasn´t getting any fouls called in practice and then coach said I wanted to see how tough you were. I like that he gives us freedom and trusts us in games. He holds everyone to a high standard. He will always hold you accountable. He prepares us very well for each game and let´s us be ourselves.

What is exactly your role on the team? Kirchheim already has a Swiss army knife with Cam Henry, but couldn´t one also describe you as that in a 203cm body?

Demetrius Ward calls me a Swiss army knife. My role is to switch and be effective each minute when I´m on the court. I communicate and I play hard and am naturally wired. I feel that if your not tired than your not playing your hardest.

Is there anything that Cam henry doesn´t do? Talk a little about how you guys play together? Are you like 2 defensive anchors on the court?

I think we are. I think that I´m a better defender and more athletic than him. We have both this special uniqueness to our games. He has it in for the guards and I for the bigs.

What has it been like playing with Braden Norris? He is a pass first point guard that shot 42% from outside in the NCAA. One doesn´t see that often as a pass first guard?

I played in college with Hagen´s Sincere Carry and he is about the closest comparison that I have to Braden. Carry gave me no look passes and so does Norris. Braden can really pass the ball. He is one of the most positive guys that I know. He never misses a screen.

How vital are bigs Antonio Dorn and Aitor Picket. What have you appreciated most about their games?

Dorn is our enforcer. He hasn´t played much because he was injured. In practice I have never seen a guy with his size that can finish like him with that kind of power. If you don´t double team him, he will make 7 lay ups in a row. Picket is also like a Swiss army knife. The only thing missing is athleticism. His biggest thing is his IQ. He is a 4 that can defend a 5. He is one of our top 5 best shooter son the team. He is always positive.

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

The guys that come to mind are Andrew Wiggins, Bobby Portis, Naz Reid and Kawhi Leonard

You’re a guy that can do it all at the forward position. How big is versatility in your game?

The team allows me to play 3-5. When team´s switch it is a nightmare for them. I´m may not be as smart as I want to be, but I´m still smarter than 50% of all players.

How developed is your three pointer at the moment? You shot over 40% in the NCAA and in Canada. What is your goal as a shooter this season?

My goal every year is to be above 35%. I try not to look to much about my 3, but try to maintain my FT %. I feel like if I take good three´s, then I will be in high 30´s.

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

I´m an intense, tenacious and focused defender right now. I would like to become more of a physical defender.

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

I´m working on my leadership. I want to say the right words and not be aggressive doing it. I want to be the best version of me on and off the floor.

Last summer you played with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL) averaging 6.7ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 76.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 69.2%. What kind of an experience was that? It is a league that has become better known in the last years. What positives could you take from that time?

When I got there, we were 2-8 and we finished at 500. I went from being a practice player to being thrown into the fire. It was like summer hoops. I brought energy and my love for the game.

You played your rookie season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom-BBL) averaging 12.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 78.2%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?

The biggest adjustment was simply how business is handled at the pro level. I experienced how one day, I´m joking and having fun with a teammate and the next day he is on a plane home.

How tough was being swept in the Playoffs by Sheffield? You played them tough in the first 2 games but lost by 3 points in each game. What will you always remember from that series?

The first game we competed. I could of thrown the ball backwards and it would have gone in. The basketball God was on my side. We lost the last 2 games because we played with showmanship.

How beneficial was it for you to have played for 3 NCAA teams. What kind of a player were you in 2017 and what kind of a player in 2023?

I began to play the game at age 15 and went to college at age 18. I came to the NCAA with athleticism and I couldn´t shoot the ball. Basketball was my staple. I was hungry, but also had to prove myself. In my last year at Kent State, I was on a really good team. We had 2 really good guards and with me were the big 3. I was on a pedestal. It was my reward after many years of hard work.

You played your first NCAA season with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (NCAA). You had a very solid freshman season averaging 11.2ppg, 7.7rpg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 16.3%, FT: 64.2%. How do you feel did your game benefit as you averaged 26 minutes per game.

I was really blessed that they started 4 freshmen. That year we were 7-28 and my last year at Kent State we were 28-7. That was God´s plan. I had no plan what a basketball program was my freshman year. I was more a sponge that season.

You were challenged right in your first game losing by 26 points to Georgetown and head coach Patrick Ewing, but you scored 16 points. Did that game give you a sense that you belonged in the NCAA right away?

That performance gave me a sense that I belonged. I should of committed to a school later, but did to this school at the start of my senior year in high school. I had been the first from my family to go to college. I was just happy to have gotten in.

You then played 3 years at Ball State where you made strides each season in your scoring. How valuable were these 3 years in your basketball development under James Whitford?

Coach Whitford was the best off the court coach that I ever had. He coached so many diverse players and had to face with so much adversary, but he always stuck with his players. My 3 years there allowed me to become a shooter. I worked with a ball machine and took 10,000 shots. I went from 17% to high 30´s from downtown.

You had many great games at Ball State like scoring 26 points in a win at Miami, Ohio. What was your fondest moment on the court at Ball State?

My fondest game was a home game against Bowling Green. I had a terrible offensive game. My match up was Daequan Plowden. I took a 1 dribble pull up jumper at the end to win the game. Despite not having a good offensive game, I stuck with it and played hard. The whole team stormed on the court and dog piled me.

You then finished at Kent State University (NCAA) averaging 10.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 72.0%. How important was it adding a 5 year for your basketball development. You demonstrated consistency again there

I got better defensively and got pushed. Coach Rob pushed me to be my best. Before coming there, I was always a role player, but there I was part of a dynamic.

You had the luxury to have played for so many different coaches at a young age. How did head coach Rob Senderoff give you that added push there and help you be prepared for a pro career?

He held me accountable for my job. We were top 5 in defense in the nation. We would sit down, take notes, laugh and get better.

You reached the big dance losing to Indiana. You didn´t have a great shooting night. What memories will you always have from that game?

I learned that I wasn´t Michael Jordan. I had the flu. We couldn´t throw our best punch. You couldn´t tell I had the flu. I did what I could.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Chris Payton?

He could really jump. But my toughest match up was against Malik Jacobs.

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

Isaiah Stewart and Jaden McDaniels

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Me, Sincere Carry, Markell John son, Deng Adel, Chris Payton

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Steph Curry, Shaq, Allen Iverson

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 haven´t seen it.

Thanks Miryne for the chat.

John Fulkerson´s(Dziki Warszawa) Philosophy Is To Focus On What Your Good At And The Other Things Will Come

Pic credit: Dziki Warszawa

John Fulkerson (206-F-1997, college: Tennessee) is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Tennessee playing his third professional season and first with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). He played his first 2 pro seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium BNXT League) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and last season averaged 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. He began his basketball career with / Christ Presbyterian Academy. He then played at the University of Tennessee from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against the Bamberg Baskets.

Thanks John for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you and what have you enjoyed most from the experience?

It has been a good, fun experience. The staff, my teammates and the fans are really enjoyable to be around. The competition is a good challenge. We play very respectable programs and we work to get better every day. What I have enjoyed the most is getting to play with the guys I do.

Dziki Warszawa (Poland-OBL) is in the middle of the pack in the Polish first division. What does the club have to do better in the next 2 months to reach the playoffs?

We have to play together as a team and work to get better every day.

Your playing Bamberg in the ENBL quarterfinals. Your still searching for your first pro chip. What kind of a series can we await?

It will be a very competitive and intense series.

Bamberg are the favorite on Paper. What will be key to getting by them and advancing?

We just have to play our game and limit them to one shot per possession. It will be important to take out their key strengths.

What has it been like sharing the court with Swedish national player Denzel Andersson. What have you appreciated most about his game?

Denzel is a great basketball player, but even better person. He is a great, genuine guy on and off the court. He’s very funny and personable.

How valuable has a guy like Mateusz Bartosz been for your game? He is 37 years old and has much experience. How has he helped your game most in practice?

He has helped my game tremendously. He is always talking to me about how to improve upon different things, and how to approach different things that teams are doing. It is awesome having someone like him around and being able to pick his brain.

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

Domantas Sabonis

You’re a guy that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game have?

My philosophy is to focus on what you’re good at and let the other things come.

You don´t take many three´s. Is incorporating a three into your game of high priority for you?

Yes, I worked hard in between seasons to get my three to the place where it can be incorporated. I am always trying to expand my game.

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

I want to be the kind of defender my teammates can rely on.

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

I am always trying to improve in all areas and be the best teammate I can be.

You played your first 2 seasons with Stella Artois Leuven Bears averaging 9.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 74.7% and 11.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 61.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

There wasn’t necessarily any wake up call, but was a pretty cool realization that playing basketball was my job now.

You lost a tough playoff series against Charleroi in your rookie season. How tough was losing game 1 83-82? Did that loss effect the team mentally?

It is always tough to lose by 1, 2, or 3 points because that means it was a 1 possession game. Thinking back, you always “could” have made 1 single play, made a shot or went harder on defense. You always have to stay tough mentally though.

You played at the University of Tennessee (NCAA) from 2016-2022 playing a total of 165 games. You played 6 seasons there and reached 4 March Madnesses. Were these some of the best times in your life?

Absolutely. Playing basketball for the University of Tennessee was a dream come true for a kid from Tennessee. Those 6 years were some of the best.

In the 19-20 season you had your personal best season, but didn´t reach the NCAA tournament. You beat Kentucky again coming back from 17 points down and scored 27 points being the best player on the court with the likes of future NBA guys like Tyrese Maxey and Immanuel Quickly. Was this one of your fondest moments in the NCAA?

Yes, the Kentucky game is one that will live with me forever. It was a huge win for the program, and our team really came together for a big win against a tough opponent.

You played in 4 NCAA tournaments. Which run was the sweetest?

They were all very memorable. Each tournament holds different memories and opponents. You truly never know what can happen during March Madness.

In your second season you helped beat Kentucky and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had only 3 points. If someone would of told you then that this guy would be a top 5 NBA player in 2025 what would you have thought?

I could have seen it. SGA has definitely expanded his game but even back then, you could tell he was going to be special in the league.

You had so many incredible teammates and guys that reached the NBA. Which guy had the biggest impact on you? Possibly Grant Williams?

Definitely. Each of my former teammates had an impact on me in some way or another. I consider Grant one of my best friends. We were roommates during his time at Tennessee and really got to be there for one another through it all.

You were a fan favorite and fans called you the incredible Fulk. What was your coolest fan experience?

The coolest experience was when all of the arena at Tennessee was chanting my name.

How did head coach Rick Barnes groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Barnes demanded the best out of you every single day and held you to a very high standard. He really wants to shape you into a good basketball player, but a good person above all else.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kyle Alexander?

Kyle probably

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

Bam Adebayo was the toughest player I have ever played against. I played him during high school.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I had too many good teammates over 6 Years to only pick five of them.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Steph, Wilt, MJ

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 have not seen it. I will have to watch it.

Thanks John for the chat.

Jaylen Alston(Team Ehingen) Explodes Twice Continuing To Dominate The Pro B Scoring 92 points In 2 Games

Jaylen Alston (193-G, college: WSSU) is a 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with Pro B team Team Ehingen. He began his basketball career at Eastern Guilford high school. He then played a season at Gardner-Webb University (NCAA) and then played at Winston Salem State University and in his last 2 seasons averaged 11.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 74.5% and 18.1ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 74.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 97-81 loss to the Dragons Rhondorf.

Thanks Jaylen for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?

I spent most of my Fiba break and just recovering watching some film and getting better. I was a little bit under the weather so I didn’t do much.

Ehingen suffered a tough 97-81 loss on the road to the Dragons Rhondorf. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?

We went into the game plan with the same energy from last game just try to scout and know the players we were going to be guarding and then also figured out a way to just give us a edge like we did the last time we played, but we just did not come out with the same results.

Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. You scored your teams first 10 points. Is that the most points you have ever scored to start a game?

No, that’s not the most that I ever scored in the first quarter or beginning of a game.

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving Ehingen the most problems on the defensive end?

I would say that our problem was understanding where we needed to help on the pick roll and just being on the close out too shooters because that surely gave them the edge when they were consistently making three-pointers

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second quarter. What adjustments did the Dragons make?

I think they made the adjustment of trying to close off some of our plays that we run and just understanding our strengths of getting to the basket.

The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. Was this one of those game where their experience really hurt Ehingen as a team?

I would not say that experience hurt us in this game. I would say honestly turnovers and rebounding was the reason behind us losing in my opinion.

The Dragons Rhondorf had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. Are they a playoff team when they are playing that well?

I feel like any team is a playoff team when you’re playing with those kind of numbers so whether we do it or our opponent, does it that pretty much sums up who will win the game

Could Team Ehingen take anything positive from the loss? It did stick well with the Dragons under the boards losing only 39-37 and had 10 offensive rebounds?

We can definitely take a positive aspect from that loss and just knowing that we have to be better in certain areas. The rebound battle definitely was something out of our nature that we’ve been pretty good about the last couple games so I feel like we need to get back into knowing what works for us and getting rebounds. The second chance points is something that we need to take advantage of.

Team Ehingen only played 8 guys. How tough is it competing in general with so little experience? Does that give you added pressure to perform?

We actually ended up playing with nine guys, but it is tough to compete sometimes with guys who haven’t been in certain situations but that’s what it’s about getting them experience and learning from it so I don’t feel like there is any pressure it’s just guys that are older like me should be able to help them in the moment that way when we succeed, they can understand how to help themselves when I might not be around.

The team next plays Oberaching a tough and feisty team. Ehingen lost in November to them. What will be key to getting the win this time?

I think the key to winning this game will be getting back to what we do best and that is getting inside the lane, getting easy layups also rebounding the ball and limiting our turnovers to under 12 and if we do all of that, I feel like nobody can beat us

You scored 92 points back to back against the RheinStars and Dragons. How crazy, but amazing does that feel?

it doesn’t really feel too crazy just because I’ve been in situations where I have scored a large number of points in a long stretch, but I take it as something amazing because I know players don’t get to do this too often, but I also want to just move on to the next game because if we don’t win then none of my points matter.

Did you have a special feeling going into the game or did it just feel like another game?

Honestly, it just felt like another game. I really didn’t treat their team too much differently than anybody else. I simply try to just kill whoever is in my way.

Do you feel like that dunk to start the game gave you extra motivation?

I feel like the dunk set the tone to let them know that we were coming to play and that this was not going to be a game where they felt like they could push us over.

After you scored the team´s first 10 points, did that 50 point mark ever come into your mind?

I really did not know that I scored the first 10 points and 50 points never crossed my mind. I was just trying to make sure that we have more points than they have points, but the outcome did not turn out the way I wanted.

How much more self-confidence does this game give you? Does a back to back performance like this drive you forward to explode again in the next game?

This game doesn’t necessarily give me any more confidence. I already had high confidence in myself, I just play my role, no matter what it is or any given night so know what I’m capable of every time I step on the court but a performance like this especially in back-to-back games certainly gets the attention of others and they try harder to stop me and when they do it simply makes me want to just show who I really am and where I’m from because then they may understand that they ain’t just a regular game to me.

You shot better than in the game against the RheinStars. The only difference was that you didn´t get to the free throw line this time. Are you aware that 50 points could have been in your cards again?

Yes, I’m aware that I was close to 50 points, but I’m not too strung out on trying to accomplish individual goals. I’m more focused on team goals.

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

My favorite basket was the dunk I had in the first quarter just because like you said, it set the tone for the game

After scoring big points again, what does the situation look like with treating your teammates for something or will they treat you to something?

The situation just stays the same. My teammates always treat me well and are happy for me anytime I’m doing good and I always treat them the same and I’m happy for them anytime they’re doing good so nothing has changed. They just tried to encourage me to keep going and pushing further if it means getting the win

Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk contest dunk by Mac McClung?

I rate the dunk contest an eight out of 10 I just feel like Zach Levine and Aaron Gordon set the bar so high that it’s going be pretty hard to top either one of their performances.

Thanks Jaylen for the chat

Kelvin Omojola Knows That The Dragons Rhondorf Have The Talent For The Playoffs And Now Need To Come Together And Get It Done

Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) is a 27year old 183cm point guard that is playing his fourth professional season and fourth in Germany and second with the Dragons Rhondorf helping them win the pro B title last season averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. In 2022-2023 he played with PS Karlsruhe (Pro A) averaging 3,1ppg and as a rookie played with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He began his basketball career at Green Valley high school and then played at Red Deer (JUCO), Benedict College (NCAA2) averaging 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7% and Northwest University (NAIA) averaging 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 62.1% and 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 54.2%, FT: 87.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 97-81 win over Team Ehingen.

Thanks Kelvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How did you spend the Fiba break?

Hey Miles, thank you for having me as always. The FIBA Break was very chill for me, I didn’t do too much. I stayed here in Bad Honnef just working out and enjoying the time off.

How vital was the Fiba Break for the Dragons Rhondorf. Did the team do some soul searching?

It was huge! It gave us some much needed rest and time off, while also getting a good amount of practices together with the entire team.

The loss in Speyer was very disappointing. Did the team have the feeling going into the Ehingen game that that can’t happen again?

Yes, we knew this game was a must win. We need to defend our home court and we want to make the playoffs. That started by us getting this win vs. Ehingen.

Congrats on the massive 97-81 win over Ehingen. With what kind of a game plan did you go into that game?

We knew we had to come out with high energy and intensity. The past few games we got out to terrible starts and dug ourselves huge holes. Trying to overcome a 15 point lead is extremely tough and gives you no room for error if you want to make a comeback. So getting out to a great start to set the tone for the game was our mindset and game plan.

Rhondorf had the 24-20 advantage after 10 minutes. Jaylin Alston scored the first 10 points., You guys must have been aware that he scored 47 points in the last game against the RheinStars. What was the game plan on him?

Yeah he’s a tough cover. He has an extremely high motor and is very athletic, so we knew it would take a team effort to defend him.

What made it most difficult to slow him down? Is he the definition of an incredible walking bucket?

He plays extremely hard and his motor is second to none. Those attributes along with his athleticism, you see why he’s a great scorer. You just have to be ready to guard him as a team in order to slow him down.

In the second quarter the Dragons Rhondorf stepped it up on the offensive end scoring 36 points, but were still shaky on defense allowing 26 points. What was giving the team the most problems on the defensive end?

Alston was the only issue. He had 27 at the half if I’m not mistaken, that’s too many points for anyone to have. Let alone in a half. We just have to be ready to box out, rebound, and protect the paint.

In the third quarter the Dragons Rhondorf only allowed 15 points and overall allowed only 35 points in the second half. What adjustments did the team make?

We just continued to trust not only the gameplay, but each other. We were flying around defensively, had excellent ball movement, crashed the glass on both ends.

The Dragons Rhondorf finished the game strong. How proud were you that the team had no let up down the stretch?

I loved it Miles, we kept playing until the buzzer said 0:00. We need to do that every game, no matter what the score is.

The team had an overall very strong game. It led the rebound battle and had 17 offensive rebounds, had 21 assists and only 10 turnovers. What was the team’s biggest strength on the night?

Our biggest strength on the night was our continuity. We played together and as a team for the entire game. From the starters to the second unit, everyone came in and played with high energy and focus.

The Dragons Rhondorf had 6 guys scoring in double figures. The balance was there. How in sync is the offense now at this crucial stage of the season?

Our offense is starting to come together Miles. We implemented some new concepts under Coach Marko which is helping our offense. We just need to keep building and get more adjusted to the new system.

Kenan Reinhart had one of his best games this season with 14 points in 13 minutes being very efficient. Is he slowly breaking out of his shell? It must be tough always getting up and down minutes?

Yes Kenan had a great game! He’s a really good player who has a ton of potential. He’s always confident and I love it. It’s definitely tough for any player but everyone goes through it throughout their basketball journey. It’s only going to make him a better player as time goes on.

How proud are you of Tim Smith rebounding the way he did after his goose egg in Speyer with 16 points. His dominant game isn’t there like in the first 2 months. Do you help him with self-confidence?

Tim is a great player, he doesn’t need any help with confidence. He is extremely skilled, athletic, elite shot maker, I can keep going. He’ll be playing in higher level leagues very, very soon.

Antomio Pilipovic also had a solid game after a few tough games where he didn’t score in double figures. How has he grown in general as a person now having that double function as player and boss in the Dragons office?

Yeah AP is balancing the GM position and player position very well. He’s definitely grown as a leader, but he’s still the same AP which is great.

You had a strong game with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 8 dimes. How content were you with your effort despite 2 turnovers?

I loved how I played. I’m not even concerned about the stats but I loved how my energy and intensity was from the beginning of the game. I wanted to make an impact defensively and help us start the game strong.

Your minutes have been down a bit in the last months, but you had another 30 minute game. How is your relationship with new head coach Marko Zarkovic?

It’s good! Coach Marko is a great guy, professional, and I’ve really enjoyed being able to work with him. He’s doing whatever it takes to help us win games and make the playoffs.

What is your biggest goal now as a player in the last 6 regular season games? Your leadership will be crucial for the team to reach the playoffs.

The biggest goal Miles is to defend our home court, and try and steal a few road games. We need to do this so we can get into the playoffs. We have the team to do so, we just need to go and execute it!

The club next plays top team Leitershofen that beat you 115-105 in OT. How excited are you to see Ferenc Gille again?

It’s going to be great to see Ferenc again! He’s such a great guy, I love Ferenc and I loved being his teammate last season. He was a major piece in us winning the championship last season. And of course, us winning a championship gives us a bond that we’ll always have!

The Dragons Rhondorf can’t be up and down, but need a great performance. How aware are you that a win could really change the season around?

I’m very aware Miles. We have the talent to do so, we just need to come together as a unit and get it done! We all want to make the playoffs and that’s our goal. One game at a time.

What will be key to beating top team leitershofen?

They have a great team this season, we need to continue to play together and come out with an energy/intensity that will set the tone for the game.

Where do you rate the 2025 NBA slam dunk dunk by Mac McClung?

Mac is an elite dunker, you can see why he’s won the contest 3 times in a row. But I hope next year we get the NBA stars in the contest like Zion, Ja, etc.

Thanks Kelvin for the chat.

Avery Sullivan Helps Lahti Score 201 Points, Achieve First Triple Double In Career And Shoots For Another Title

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Avery Sullivan in Rhondorf in 2023

Avery Sullivan (203-F/C-1999, college: Lamar) is a 24 year old 203cm center from Texas that is playing this season with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) currently averaging 20,6ppg, 10,8rpg4,3apg, 2,6spg and 1,3bpg. Last season he played with the Dragons Rhondorf averaging 13.7ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 70.2% and helped them win the Pro B title. In 2022-2023 he played with KB Teuta Durres (Albania-Superliga) averaging 16.0ppg, Reb-3 (11.0rpg), 1.6apg, 1.5spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.5%. He played his rookie season with at Depiro Rabat Imtarfa (Malta-BOV League D1). He began his basketball career with Pflugerville High School and then played 4 seasons and 102 NCAA games at Lamar averaging 12.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 50.2%, FT: 74.0% and in his senior year averaged 9.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 44.3%, FT: 77.9%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball

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

I am currently playing in Lahti, Finland not too far from where you last saw me. I would say basketball life is treating me very well at the moment, I couldn’t ask for much more.

You’re playing your first season in Finland with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

Overal it’s been nothing short of great! One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about this new experience would have to be their fan base and overall community engagement.

The winters weren’t that rough in Germany, but how is Finland? Is it tough for a Texas native to get through the winter?

Honestly, when I first signed I was really worried about the winter here in Finland because in Texas we very rarely get snow. When the time came it wasn’t as bad as I had anticipated. Don’t get me wrong it was still very cold and unusual for me as a true Texan, but I enjoyed seeing the snow.

I mean you won titles in Albania and one in Germany and now you’re currently 19-0. Can one say that you’re infectious with winning?

I guess some could say that. I, however, just enjoy the feeling of playing each and every game I’m able to. I love the competition of it all.

The team is unbeaten. How does that feel? Does every new game become more difficult because every team is shooting for you?

Winning is always a great feeling, because at the beginning of every season it’s definitely my number one goal to try and win each game played. I would say the pressure from other teams has increased as we move on in the season due to our undefeated streak. It adds more of a target/incentive for other teams to beat us.

The team seems to be very special. It can score a lot, almost averaging 100 per game and gives up only 73 points. What is the team’s biggest strength?

Our biggest strength is everyone’s selflessness and willingness to pass. We love to play in transition to create dunk opportunities and open 3’s.

You won a game 201-54. When I read that I thought WTF? What memories do you have of that game?

The memory that stands out to me the most during that game is feeling accomplished in what I was playing for. Although it was a very high scoring game, it was more meaningful to underfunded youth sports, and every point scored meant 10 euros to support those children.

You had a triple double of 53/20/11. Were you superman on this day? How quick did you know that you could have an exceptional game?

Again I wasn’t necessarily playing for the stats but overall just wanted to do everything I could in that game to up the amount for charity.

Was this your first triple double in your career? What were you most proud of this from your own game?

Yes this was my first ever triple double. I think overall my self-assessment from that game would have been happy in how I passed the ball and was able to work fluidly with my teammates.

Did you get any cool messages after achieving that triple double from around the world? What about from your ex Dragon’s teammates?

Yes. A lot of my friends who play in Europe had sent texts asking if what they were seeing was real life? My ex-dragon teammates sent the score from that game in our old group chat which led to an in-depth discussion and an analysis of the game. There was definitely a lot of jokes from my ex Dragon’s teammates on why I didn’t do that last year.

What is it like playing with Lue Williams? He also had 50 plus points in the 201 points win. What do you appreciate most about his game?

It’s definitely a blessing to play alongside someone like Lue who is able to compete on both ends of the court. Lue’s willingness to take on the biggest defensive assignment every game is one of the things I appreciate of him.

Did you and him have to get the team dinner after the 201 point win or did they do something for you both?

No. We did end up having a team sauna night after the game.

Do you ever kid Lue about his name and annoy him with Lou Williams?

I did early on in the season, but over time the joke kind of faded.

14. Let’s talk about your game. You’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes. Last season you had many scoring options. Are you the main go to guy this season?

I wouldn’t say I’m the main go to all the time, but I try to make myself as open as possible to give people that outlet when needed.

15. This season you’re averaging 20/10/4 in 30 minutes and last season in Rhondorf you averaged 13/9/1 in 2 minutes less. That is an incredible jump. How has your game grown this season?

I believe I’m starting to read the floor better and recognize situations sooner than before.

You’re making 1.3 spg and almost 3.0 blocks per game in Finland. You improved your defensive game already last season, but how have you seen it develop further in Finland?

I think me paying more attention to detail and the patterns in the people I’m guarding has helped me further develop my defensive game.

You obviously want to win that next chip, but how else do you want to continue to improve your game this season?

The 2 areas I want to see the most improvement are shooting the 3 ball more consistently and better decision making.

The Dragons Rhondorf aren’t having the kind of season like last year fighting for the playoffs. Do you follow their progress?

Yes, I follow them weekly. I try to catch as many games as I can when they’re on. I will occasionally re-watch the game later if I miss it and don’t talk to the guys first.

Do you still have contact with your ex Dragon teammates? Is there one guy that sticks out most with whom you have contact with?

I still talk to most of the guys. I would say Kelvin sticks out to me the most as he was and still is a close friend of mine.

Where do you rank the Mac McClung dunk in the NBAs all-time best dunks?

Top 5.

Thanks Avery Sullivan

Braden Norris Is One Of Those Rare Point Guards That Is Pass First But Can Shoot Out The Lights

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Braden Norris in Koblenz 2024

Braden Norris (183-PG-1999, college: Loyola, IL) is a 25 year old 183cm point guard from Ohio playing his rookie season overseas with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA) currently averaging 14,0ppg, 2,7rpg, 4,0apg shooting 37% from outside. He began his basketball career at Oakland University (NCAA) and then played 4 years at Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) where he played a total of 126 games and won 2 MVC titles and reached the NCAA Sweet 16. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Braden for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your rookie season in Germany for the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (Germany-ProA). What has it been like coming from small Hilliard, Ohio to Kirchheim? Kirchheim has about 5000 more people living there.

To be honest it doesn’t feel much different at all. Hilliard actually feels bigger than Kirchheim even though it’s clearly not.

What has it been like living in Germany. What have you enjoyed most about the country Germany and it ´s culture?

It has been good so far it has been a shift of lifestyle, but I am enjoying the culture and life. I have enjoyed the more relaxed and slower lifestyle over here.

Your playing your rookie season with the Knights. What were the main reason for joining this ambitious organization? Did you talk with ex teammates Ryan Schwieger and Aher Uguak who have played in Germany before making the decision?

My main reasons were that I knew it was in a good location of the country, in a good league and I knew that coach Igor would put me in good positions to win and show what I can do on the court. I did talk to my former teammates before making the decision.

What has it been like playing for head coach Igor Perovic? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

I have really enjoyed playing for Igor thus far he has really good insight on the game, and he lets me play my game with a lot of freedom.

You won the first game over Giessen 92-73. The team showed it cans score a lot while defending with passion. Will defense be the team staple or three point shooting?

I think a combination of our three-point shooting and defense will be our best recipe for success.

What has it been like playing with James Graham. How much does he make your game easy?

Playing with James has been great whenever you play with a scorer like that, it frees up everyone else’s game.

What has it been like playing with Cam Henry. He told me you were the reason he signed in Kirccheim to be able to be teammates. You guys had real battles in the NCAA, but he totally respects your game. What do you like most about his game?

Playing with Cam has been great. I really respect how he approaches the game of basketball and how he sees the game. He is a very high IQ player that can do all things on the court. He is a great teammate that brings good energy to the gym every day. Most importantly he is a winner and has had a lot of success everywhere he has gone.

Talk about some of the battles you had with Cam Henry in the NCAA. You had his number 2-0.

Yeah Cam and I had a couple of good battles in college. He played for a really good coach in college so the games were always high level on both sides of the ball.

What has it been like being teammates with Lucas Mayer? How much pressure does he put off your game being another talented creator and shooter on your side?

Lucas has been great. He brings something we don´t have much on this team and that is high level speed on both sides of the ball. He is a smart player that can shoot the 3 and it is nice knowing I have him in the backcourt with me

Let ´s talk about your game. You’re a 183cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I am similar to Colin Gilespie who played at Villanova and is now playing for the Nuggets I believe.

You shot an incredible 43% in the NCAA. How rare is it having a sniper as a point guard who is really a pass first point guard?

Yeah I think its pretty rare in these times of basketball. A lot of point guards are now playmakers for themselves and not so much running a team and putting guys in the right spot. I believe I can do a little bit of both of those things.

What are your goals as a three point shooter as a rookie? Do you feel pressure to be able to keep shooting at 40% at the pro level overseas?

Don’t really have any goals. I know that if I am doing my job and putting the work in then I should be around 40% but I´m not too focused on anything other than preparation to make the next shot.

You averaged 4,0apg in a 5 year NCAA career. What will be the biggest challenge for you to continue to grow as a playmaker?

I think it is just continuing to learn the game. Their isn´t a defensive coverage I haven´t seen so just being able to make quicker decisions will make things even easier as always.

Your also a solid defender. Talk a little about your defensive game and it ´s strengths?

I would say I´m more than just a solid defender. With my IQ and my communication I think it makes up for my lack of size and athleticism. If you watch me play I very rarely get beat off the dribble.

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

Continuing working on different shots in the paint and off the dribble.

You began your NCAA career at Oakland averaging 8.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 49.0%, FT: 74.0%. What positives could you get out of that season?

The positives were proving to everyone that I am plenty good enough to play at that level.

You then transferred to Loyola University of Chicago (NCAA) winning the MVC title twice over Drake. Which one was sweeter?

They were both equally as sweet- winning never gets old.

You also played at 2 NCAA tournaments losing to Oregon State and Ohio State. What memories do you have of those runs?

Just being in those moments with my brothers. Those moments are what you work for as a player and to be able to share those moments with people you love is special.

How did head coach Drew Valentine groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I wouldn’t be in position without Drew. He pushed me to get to where I´m at and I´m forever grateful.

Who was the greatest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?

RJ Barrett or Darius Garland.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Cam Krutwig, Lucas Williamson, Aher Uguak, Keith Clemons and Phil Alston.

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

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

I did not see that.

Thanks Braden for the chat.

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