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Watching Teodosic And Campazzo Video´s Has Allowed Nico Wenzl(BBC Coburg) To Dish Out Beautiful Passes On A Regular Basis

Nico Wenzl (184-PG-2001) is a 24 year old 184cm point guard that completed his second season with BBC Coburg averaging 9,1ppg, 3,2rpg and 6,6apg. He began his basketball career with DJK Neustadt. He then played in the medi Bayreuth organization from 2017-2021 playing 12 easyCredit BBL games. He also played a season with BBC Coburg in that span and with the TenneT Young Heroes U19 team (NBBL). In the last years he also played with the Dresden Titans, Trier, MBC and Sandersdorf. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Nico for talking to germanhoops.com You had BBL experience in Bayreuth and last season with MBC. You r eturned back to the Pro B. Why did you take 2 steps back?

I decided to take a step back so I could get more minutes and responsibility.

Is the easyCredit BBL dream over for you now or is it still a goal?

I wouldn´t go as far as saying that it is over, because my goal is to play as high as possible as long as I have a role.

You returned back to BBC Coburg after being away for 5 years. How did it feel to be back? Is it like a second home for you?

I wouldn´t say that it is a second home, but everything is very familiar. I feel very comfortable here.

How are you a better player now than compared to 2020 when you left?

I´m more mature and balanced. My focus is more on the playmaking and I´m a better leader now. I also have a stronger body.

Tobias Rotegaard said that he enjoys the vibe on the road. Why is BBC Coburg so strong on the road?

We ask ourselves that question a lot. I think that when your on the road, you travel all day and are more focused on the task at hand. I think we are more preoccupied before home games.

What has it been like sharing the back court at times with talented German Adrian Petkovic? What do you appreciate most about his game?

He is very aggressive on offense and a great scorer. When we play together, I have more room. We compliment each other very well.

You were a scoring point guard in the NBBL and never averaged more than 3.8apg as a pro. This season your averaging more than 6,0apg. Did you always have that playmaking in you?

I have always had it in me. I just had a different role in the NBBL. We didn´t have many scorers so I had to do that. This season we have many scorers so I can focus on my playmaking.

Especially in the game in Frankfurt, you dished out some nice assists. At times you looked like Luka Doncic. Do you watch his passing skills?

I watch more Euroleague than NBA. I do watch Doncic highlights, but I watch more videos of Teodosic and Campazzo.

Your averaging 7,8ppg in 31 minutes. Would you like to be averaging more points in the minutes that you get?

I´m focusing more on playmaking because the team needs it more than my scoring. I just do what the team needs. I think my scoring would hurt the team more.

Last season you played with the BSW Sixers Sandersdorf (ProB) averaging 11.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.9%. You also played 7 BBL games. What kind of an experience was playing for the 2025 BBL cup winner?

It was a very fun experience. It was fun especially during the home games. The arena is small, so it gets very loud.

You had talented American guards with Callison, Baldwin and Stove. Do you feel like you got a fair chance there? You only averaged 3,0 minutes in the BBL?

I knew before the season began that my focus would be more on the Pro B. I would practice mainly with the BBL team. I think that I did as good as a job I could of in the practices.

In 2022-2023 you went from Bayreuth to Trier, but averaged only 2,2ppg in 10 minutes time. How disappointing was this season? I´m sure you expected more playing time?

I think that the overall minutes that I averaged per game is deceiving. I played in some games where I started and played 25 minutes while in other games played 2-5 minutes. I feel like that when I did get the trust, I did a good job at that level. It is just difficult when new Americans come, you kind of slip down the rotation.

What was it like playing behind Garai Zeeb? What could you soak up most from him?

Garai is a very good defender and leader. I soaked up those 2 qualities the most from him.

What was it like playing for Jermaine Bucknor? The next season he was NBA champion with Boston. How crazy was that?

That was a huge step for him. I´m really happy for him. He was such a hard worker as a player and coach. It was a huge experience for him.

In 21-22 you played with the Dresden Titans (ProB) averaging 7.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 77.8%. You won the Pro B title. What was so special about this team?

I think that we had the most talented team in the Pro B that season. I think that our biggest strength that season was our chemistry. Most guys had been playing together for years and knew each other well.

Did you have some growing pains coming form the BBL going to the Pro B? How did your game grow under Fabian Strauss?

His playing style fit mine really well. He liked to play free and fast what I like. He liked us taking shots with confidence. That season was a lot of fun. He did a good job finding creative solutions on offense.

You played with medi Bayreuth form 2017-2021. You played your first BBL game at age 17 in May 2018 against Ludwigsburg logging 2 minutes. What memories do you have of him?

I remember that I was very nervous for the whole game. It was a blowout loss against Ludwigsburg in the playoffs. I knew I would play at the end. I was really happy to be able to make my debut in the playoffs.

Do you ever remember battling Gabe York in practice? He reached the NBA with the Magic Pacers a few years later?

I remember when I read that we had signed him, I had no idea who he was. Right away I watched his highlight videos on you tube. He was one of the most talented players that I ever played with. He was so athletic and could hit from all over.

You played your first season with BBC Coburg in 2019-2020 averaging 3,6ppg. How important was it for you having a teammate like Chris Wolf?

Everybody loved him. The fans would chat his name double as loud as everyone else´s. He was our leader and held the team together. He always made the big shots when we needed them most.

In the 2020-2021 season you played 11 games for medi Bayreuth. What was it like playing behind Bastian Doreth? What could you soak up from him?

His work ethic was the most important thing that I could take from him. He was always the first to arrive and last to leave the arena. He showed me what it meant to be a full time professional.

Your best easyCredit BBL game was netting 5 points and dishing out 4 assists against Alba Berlin. What memories do you have playing against guys like Lo, Sikma and Fontecchio

We had guys injured with Doreth and Jones and I knew I would play. I got in in the first half and then from about the 5 minute mark of the third quarter, I played until the end. I think that I used my chance well. I was very nervous, but as soon as I was on the court, it went away.

Who won a 1-1 back in the day you or Christian Feneberg?

If I had to bet, then I would say that I won more games.

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

Tyrese Rice.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

James Robinson, Gabe York, Nate Linhart, Demon Brooks, Andreas Seifert

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

Kobe, Bryant Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Milos Teodosic, Nikos Galis, Nikola Jokic, Giannis

Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner, Pascal Roller

Who is your Goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Nico for the chat.

A Crazy Cross Over And An Off Balance Floater Propels Zach Cooks Into The Jena Fans Hearts Forever

pic credit:Christoph Worsch

Giessen had a do or die game in their own living room with a few thousand boisterous Giessen fans doing all they could to keep their season going. It wasn´t loud in the Ost Halle, but bedlam as there were 11,3 seconds to play and game 4 between Giessen and Jena was dead locked at 95-95. The only negative aspect for the Giessen faithful was that Jena had possession and could make history and move back to the easyCredit BBL with a win. You could of given the ball to a handful of players, but none was better than explosive 175cm guard Zach Cooks (175-PG-1999, college: Hofstra) who has been in this kind of a situation his whole career. He has been a walking bucket his whole career and averaged 22,0ppg the last 2 seasons with UBSC Raiffeisen Graz (Austria-BSL) and averaged 18,0ppg in his last 3 seasons with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NCAA). It was a no brainer for him that he would take the last shot. “I’m very confident in myself and I always want the ball at the end of the games to make the game winning plays. Coach had trust in me to do that and I executed it exactly how he wanted”, stressed Zach Cooks. With the seconds winding down he was near the free throw line and produced a sick cross over went right towards the hoop and took an off balance floater with 2 defenders coming at him and let it bank off the glass and in and the rest is history. “This one felt good. It was a special moment as I made a buzzer beater to move us to BBL. It will go down in history and will be talked about forever. This is what we worked all season for. From the first day of pre season to the all the hard practices and long days in the gym, it all paid off to get us to move up to the BBL”, stated Zach Cooks. “He is a beast and he had a great season and amazing second half for us”, warned Chris Carter. A crazy cross over and off balance floater bank shot propels Zach Cooks into the hearts of Jena fans forever.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

The 26 year old Georgia native who feels that the Oklahoma City Thunder will win the 2025 NBA title over the Indiana Pacers were down 1-0 against Giessen and having had to face that kind of adversary was a blessing in disguise. “It made us realize it won’t be easy. Giessen is a good team and we stopped playing the 1st game which led to us giving up the lead and losing”, said Zach Cooks. The scoring guard came alive in the last 3 games in the Giessen series averaging an incredible 24,0ppg after only contributing 9 points on 3/7 shooting in the 84-80 game 1 loss. “I had to get out my head and just play my game how I know to play. I was second guessing myself in game 1 but came out game 2 very aggressive playing my game and it led to good success for myself”, commented Zach Cooks. Jena came together as a team in game 2 and shocked Giessen on the road winning by 10 which totally heightened their self-confidence returning back home and destroyed Giessen by 33 points and had total momentum going back to Giessen to win in spectacular fashion with a buzzer beater. “We were able to win the series and reach the final by staying focused, calm, and believing that we can win every game we play”, expressed Zach Cooks. Jena didn´t go into the playoffs with momentum losing 2 of their last 3 regular season games, but the team knew that now was the time to step up and start the post season. “I was 100% confident in my team. We know in the locker room what we have, we just have to all be locked in and show it on the court. We were locked in from game 1. We wanted to make a statement but also prove to ourselves that we can handle business as the #1 seed”, warned Zach Cooks.

pic credit: Christoph Worsch

One guy that may have gotten lost a bit in the shadow of Cooks buzzer beater was ultimate teammate Chris Carter. He is a player that has been a positive disease on clubs like Vechta, Chemnitz, Rostock and now Jena with the incredible skills of being able to lead those teams from the Pro A to the easyCredit BBL. The guy has so much positive energy on and off the court every day and Cooks saw it right from day 1. “I remember my first day in Jena we got in the gym and got some shots up. We talked about the expectations of the season and the past seasons of ours and we clicked right away. I knew he would be my right hand man this season right after that”, added Zach Cooks. Carter does do many things, but it was especially his leadership once again that brought magic to the team. “Chris is special and does a lot of the little things that statistics may not show. He’s a very vocal person and is always positive on & off the court. We follow his lead and he has helps me a lot especially this season”, explained Zach Cooks. You could give Jena´s team middle name character as they had another player by the name of Raymar Morgan who has played at the highest level and is in his 14th season at age 36. He is the ultimate veteran who was very efficient in 13 minutes per game averaging 7,0ppg and 3,0rpg and accepted a lesser role for the good of the team. “Raymar brought the leadership to the team, the voice but also knowledge that he has since he has played for a long time. He’s definitely helped the team in so many different ways”, stressed Zach Cooks. Jena was on top of the standings all season with incredible chemistry and without a doubt, this was the most talented team that Cooks has played on. “Top to bottom we had everything a team needs to be successful. Everybody played their role perfectly and it helped us get to the position we are in today. The team chemistry is easy when we all do things as a team a lot. Off the court activities only helped us on the court and we can pick each other up if one falls”, said Zach Cooks. But the chip isn´t there yet. Granted Jena has moved up to the easyCredit BBL, but still want that chip against Trier. Last season, Cooks lost in the finals in a tough game 3 to Oberwart 81-80 and this time, he wants to make amends. “I wanted it very badly because at the end of the day I am a winner. I hate losing. We will be ready to play both games against Trier. We lost a big lead the first game and were short handed the 2nd game. It will be a good 2 games for both teams with a lot of talent”, warned Zach Cooks. There is serious guard terror within the Trier team as Zach Cooks will have his hands full, but he definitely wants revenge for the 2 loses this season and is on a mission for that first dub.

Ilya Fohl(Alba Berlin) Was The Steph Curry Of Berlin In The JBBL Final As He Was Letting It Rain Three´s From All Over

Ilja Fohl is a 15 year old 185cm small forward that averaged 12/1/1/1 stats in the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to eurobasket after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats I on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

This so crazy for me. I came from Zehlendorf and have never had that kind of success before like this with Alba Berlin. It is so full filling for me to have won this title. I thank the coaches and my teammates for the great effort.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

It was big. So many people said that we wouldn´t win again, because we had bad opponents. That pushed us so much more to work harder and winning feels so good.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It is a great feeling knowing that NBA superstars gave us support. That shows that Alba Berlin is a family and that they have stayed on the ground.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

When he is hot and hitting shots, it´s deadly for then opponent. We are similar in a way as players. We both have shown that when you work hard, results will show.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

We is a good three point shooter and we wanted to take that away from him. We did a pretty good job doing that. We wanted him to go more into the zone and tire him out. We made him work hard for every shot.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is our only real big and is our X-factor. His energy and strength is so strong. Our coach always told us to look for him. He saved us a lot of times in then final.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

They are a great strong team. If Klaric and Oldiges had scored more, it could have been a tougher game for us. They live off runs and always came back. I think that our depth was key for the win.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That dunk was so big. There hadn´t been many dunks in the game and his gave us the momentum at that point. The arena went crazy.

Ihla Foehl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

I was today. There are games where I don’t find my shots. Luca Kappel and I are the splash brothers of Berlin.

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think key was staying calm and playing our game. We hit big shots and made them when we needed to. We didn´t give them a chance to come back.

You are an amazing shooter. Who is your big basketball role model?

My role model is Damian Lillard. He may not be the best shooter, but I chose him because not everyone has him as a role model.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I will see if I go to school or not. I won´t go into the club or drink. I will celebrate with my family.

Thanks Ilya for the chat.

Defending So Many Great 1-1 Players Like Fynn Rieck Helped Daniel Gwanihu(ALBA Berlin) Develop Further As A Defender

Daniel Gwanihu is a 16 year old 189cm guard that averaged 13/7/4/3 stats during the regular season of the JBBL (U-16) season. He spoke to germanhoops.com after helping lead Alba Berlin to the 2025 JBBL title.

Congrats Daniel on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?

I feel really good. We had an up and down season. It is great to win the title.

How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?

When we found out that we would play against Oldenburg, we were very motivated. Getting the win was a total team effort.

How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block?

It was cool seeing ex Alba Berlin players come back and support us. I felt that was very correct. They are big role models for me. I want to follow in their footsteps to the NBA.

The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?

Luca was so big for us hitting three pointers, but in our team every player is important.

The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?

He is a very good player and it was my job to stop him. He is hard to stop. He is big and strong and good on the pick and role. He is also a very smart player.

In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was his support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg?

He is another very important player for our success. He found his way into the team really well. I´m really proud of how he played.

Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that?

We have a lot of respect for them. Oldenburg is a very good organization that play in the BBL. They have players that are really present on the court and know how to compete.

How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?

That Jason dunk brought hype into the arena. That prepared us for the fourth quarter. That was his best dunk of the season.

Ilya Fohl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin?

Yes he is. He is a great shooter. He was also a new player for us. He is a great player and best shooter in Germany

Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

I think that key was our defense. That helped us get on transition and our inside game was also good.

You won 2025 NBBL defender of the year. How did you see your defense grow this season?

I feel like I developed well this season. There are many really good 1-1 players in the JBBL. That helped my defense develop further. I played well against MVP Fynn Rieck.

Who is your favorite defender and who you look up to?

I like to watch Nick Weiler-Babb.

How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow.

I have school tomorrow. I will celebrate with family and friends.

Thanks Daniel for the chat.

Ivan Kharchenkov Flies In For The NBBL Final And Finally Wins Helping FC Bayern Munich Past ratiopharm Ulm 89-73

NBBL champions Dominik Dolic, Ivan Kharchenkov and Ivan Volf

I will never forget seeing the very sad face of Ivan Kharchenkov (198-SG-2006) at the 2023 NBBL Top 4 in Frankfurt after FC Bayern Munich had lost in the semi final and missed the final. His whole family was there and he was helpless as he couldn´t play because of injury. Last season, he could finally play and had a great game scoring 20 plus points, but it wasn´t enough as his team lost to underdog Vechta who had finally won their first NBBL title. I can remember greeting him before the 2024 final when he had to watch Vechta beat Alba Berlin. This time he wasn´t sad, but looked extra motivated and furious and determined to finally make 3 a charm this season. He only played 1 NBBL game leading up to the top 4 in Berlin and missed the semi final because of game 1 of the Playoffs that easyCredit BBL team Munich won with 18 points over MBC. He only played 1,45 minute scoring 3 points. The big question on final Sunday was, would he fly to Berlin to compete in the final and get that opportunity to finally win that first NBBL chip. Then during the WNBL, final a lady came over to me and told me the great news that Ivan kharchenkov would play. “He flew with me this morning from Munich to Berlin. He will stay overnight and take the train Monday morning to Weissenfels to join his BBL team for game 2 of the BBL playoffs”, said Mama Kharchenkov. Another big question was would Kharchenkov disrupt the great FC Bayern Munich chemistry in the final? “No no, there are no worries. Ivan knows the team well and guys like Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic won´t have a problem with that”, said German basketball legend Steffen Hamann. So there was Ivan Kharchenkov in warmups and ready to go. He was dropping shot after shot, but unfortunately wouldn´t hav ethe same fortune during the game with his shooting touch. Kharchenkov scored 13 points on a poor shooting day at 4/18, but he gave his 2 cents in the 89-73 win for FC Bayern Munich over ratiopharm Ulm that finally gave them the title after losing the last 3 years. “It feels so good to finally win this title. We were so close so many times, but this year we finally did. We were hungrier and just wanted it more than they did. We played together and every guy played to their strengths. We rebounded really well in the second half”, smiled Ivan Kharchenkov. It was a bitter loss for ratiopharm Ulm who played a great and smart semi-final game against Alba Berlin, but they just couldn´t duplicate another performance like that against FC Bayern Munich. “We were concentrated in the first half, but in the second half played with less energy. It was tough matching their physicality and our biggest weakness was our rebounding”, stressed ratiopharm Ulm guard Jervis Scheffs.

Ivan Kharchenkov with the runner

FC Bayern Munich seemed to have got off at the wrong side of the bed as ratiopharm Ulm jumped all over the Bavarian team taking the quick 10-3 lead. Danish forward Fredrick Erichsen gave Ulm a lot of offensive support being aggressive making a lay in and securing an offensive rebound and making the putback. Nico Jerkic also added a trey in the run. Ulm was more present on the offensive glass while FC Bayern Munich couldn´t hit the ocean and left a few easy lay ups on the rim. Ratiopharm Ulm continued to defend aggressively and FC Bayern Munich couldn´t find solutions as they had no good ball movement. Ulm was able to use their individual qualities well in the first 5 minutes. Ulm then continued to execute well on offense as Erichsen made another lay in and the Swiss army knife Joel Cwick made a lay in while Scheffs hit free throws for the dominant 17-5 Ulm lead. Ivan Kharchenkov would be 0/5 after one quarter as he was finding his spots well, but just not hitting shots. Sometimes it just takes a while. “When my shot isn´t falling, I have to find other ways of helping my team”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. However the whole first quarter wasn´t lost as FC Bayern Munich rebounded finishing the quarter with a 7-1 run to trail only 18-12. In the run, Munich got vital support from athletic German Nicolas Kodjoe with 5 points and young German Killian Duck made an old school hook shot. “We were a little nervous. It was a final. My shot wasn´t falling, but thankfully I began to hit some more latter and reach the free throw line”, said Ivan Kharchenkov.

Joel Cwik at the FT line

In the second quarter FC Bayern Munich continued to play off their good finish to the first quarter and execute better on offense. FC Bayern Munich got a lay in by Caspar Vossenberg and then Ivan Kharchenkov made his first basket at the 8,08 minute mark hitting a 20 footer. He loves that mid range jumper and made Ulm pay. He also added a pretty dime with a shovel pass to Vossenberg for the dunk, but Munich couldn´t get totally over the hump as ratiopharm Ulm continued to execute well as they found their touch from the parking lot as Erichsen and Estonian guard Oliver Kullame connected for three pointers as Munich trailed 24-20. FC Bayern Munich was in the game, but Ulm punched back as Erichsen continued his crisp execution with a lay in while inside out big Jonas Zilinskas hit a trey for the 29-20 advantage. But it´s only a matter of time before a team like FC Bayern Munich can totally break out of their funk as they overwhelmed and overpowered ratiopharm with a lethal 20-4 run to get their second lead of the game to lead 40-33 and from then on would never look back again. Croatian youth national player Dominic Dolic exploded for 8 points dropping 2 three´s and also made a lay in on transition. He showed his brilliance at both ends also getting a steal as his annoying on ball defense stifled Ulm. But it wasn´t only Dolic who sparkled but also others as FC Bayern Munich showed their team basketball abilities as their bigs Duck and Desmond Yiamu scored. Yiamu had a touch semi-final game, but he was focused and energized in the final finding back to his game. Rtaiopharm Ulm wasn´t getting as easily into the paint area as the first quarter as FC Bayern Munich heightened their defensive pressure and on ball defense. But ratiopharm escaped their funk in the last minutes closing out the first half strongly with a 5-1 run to trail only 41-38 at the break. In the run, ratiopharm Ulm was sparked by Mr walking bucket Jervis Scheffs who scored 2 baskets. That he is a walking bucket is no secret as he poured in 37 points in an NBBL game and 36 points in a Pro B game. FC Bayern Munich had the slim 41-38 lead at the break. “Dolic came up big for us. He is such a good player. I love how active he is on the court and how he can take over when I´m not on the court and how he finds me when I´m on the court”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern Munich shot 46% from the field and 31% from outside and had 17 rebounds and 6 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 38% from the field and 33% from outside and had 22 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Ivan Kharchenkov at the FT line

In the third quarter FC Bayern Munich continued to have the lead and led by as much as 8 points, but they couldn´t shake raiopharm Ulm as they continued to fight and trailed only 60-57 after 30 minutes. Ivan Kharchenkov hit a few shots finding his grove at that moment, but would have continued misfortune later until the end. FC Bayern Munich had the 45-40 lead, but couldn´t shake ratiopharm Ulm as they continued to execute well getting baskets from Erichsen and Danish big man Endurance Aiyemnekhue who offered tough resistance against Killian Duck in the final. But ratiopharm Ulm just couldn´t get over the hump as FC Bayern Munich continued to get good offensive support as their three´s came at a good pace as Dolic scored as did Greek guard Nikolas Sermpezis for the 55-48 advantage. Both teams kept punching back and forth as Yiamu had a strong phase using his fine instincts with an offensive rebound ana put back and lay in for the 60-52 advantage. With a few minutes left in the third quarter, ratiopharm Ulm was in danger again of FC Bayern Munich possibly pulling away, but they came back again closing out the third quarter with a timely 5-0 run to trail only by 3 points. Ulm remained aggressive getting to the free throw line as Kullamae and Zilinskas made free throws while Joel Cwik made a 20 footer. “We couldn´t keep a higher lead, because Ulm did a good job getting to the free throw line. They also got on transition getting easy baskets”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. “We did a good job still being able to play fast and at our tempo which Munich didn´t expect from us”, added Jervis Scheffs.

frederick Erichsen for 3

In the fourth quarter came the turning point of the game as FC Bayern Munich punched with a 14-2 run to lead 74-59 and they wouldn´t look back as that would be the final big punch of the game. FC Bayern Munich had 10 minutes left and knew it was time to step up and make that last run and had team as the main focus as 5 players scored in the run. Ratiopharm Ulm may have weapons, but so do FC Bayern Munich as Kodjoe was aggressive again giving that needed spark letting his athleticism take him to 2 lay in´s, while Kharchenkov made 3 free throws, Duck made 2 free throws and Ivan Volf who had had the hot hand in crunch time against Vechta the night before added 5 points and 3 free throws. Jordan Mueller finally stopped the run with a trey getting the kick out pass from Jerkic to trail 74-62. Then came the best offensive spurt of both teams as 22 points were scored, but the only negative thing was that FC Bayern Munich scored 11 points which didn´t help in the Ratiopharm Ulm comeback. In this phase both clubs let it rain three´s as FC Bayern Munich got production from their 3 stellar guards Volf, Sermpezis, and Dolic while Dolic also added 2 free throws, while ratiophram Ulm got hot shooting from Scheffs and 2 three´s from Zilinskas and Erichsen also added an offensive rebound and putback, but FC Bayern Munich still led 85-73 and before ratiopharm Ulm knew it, there were 2 minutes to play. Surely some fatigue played a roll, but that lethal 14-2 run to start the fourth quarter gave FC Bayern Munich the momentum and they just continued to ride that high and finish with 29 points in the quarter. Dolic added free throws and Yiamu a lay in after getting the feed from Kharchenkov which was his second assist of the night. With 28 seconds left, FC Bayern Munich was already starting to celebrate at the bench while the players on the court just let the clock run down. “The game was close and we knew that if we wanted to win, we had to shift up a gear. We are big at the guard position and physical and I think Ulm got a little tired. We got some no calls, rebounded really well and hit our three´s well”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. “We let up in the fourth quarter. They began to hit three´s and did a good job controlling the rebounds and got second chance points”, expressed Jervis Scheffs. FC Bayern Munich was led by Dominmik Dolic with 21 points and 5 dimes while Nikolas Sermpezis and Ivan Kharchenkov added 13 points a piece while ratiopharm Ulm was led by Jervis Scheffs with 15 points and Frederik Erichsen produced 13 points and Jonas Zilinskas had 10 points. FC Bayern munich shot 44% from the field and 28% from the three point line and had 38 rebounds and 11 turnovers while ratiopharm Ulm shot 38Y% from the field and 32% from the three point line and had 41 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

Dorian Grosber(Alba Berlin) Will Never Forget Playing Against Mike James And Being So Freaking Nervous Against Milan

Dorian Grosber (197-PG-2006) is an 18 year old 197cm forward from Luxemburg playing in the Alba Berlin organization. He primarily plays for the farm team Lok Bernau averaging 9/4/2 and and for the NBBL (U-19) team averaging 11/6/3/2. He also has played 2 Euroleague games. Last season he played 10 games for Lok Bernau averaging 2,8ppg, 2,0rpg and 1,7apg and with the NBBL team averaged 9/6/3. In the 2022-2023 season he helped Alba Berlin win the NBBL title averaging 5/3/1. He began his basketball career with BBC Sparta Bertrange U17 team (EYBL) and also played with the CFBB Luxembourg U16 team (EYBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2025 NBBL tournament in Berlin.

You are from Luxemburg and began your career at BBC Sparta Bertrange U17 team. What memories do you have from these years? Did you have a mentor growing up in Luxemburg?

I remember winning the u18 Cup Final. That was a very nice memory. I had a lot of people helping me in Luxembourg, but the coach who helped me the most was Christophe Flammang, who was also my school teacher in 6th grade.

You played 2 World Cup qualifying games for Luexmburg. What kind of an experience was that? What is the state of Luxemburg basketball? Are there some other interesting young players coming up besides yourself?

It was an unforgivable experience to represent my country. Luxembourg basketball is evolving a lot in the past years. We have good talents with Namik Muratovic from Bayern Munich, Ehis Etute (Oregon) and Isa Hamalainen (Colorado)

You came to Alba Berlin in 2022. How special was the NBBL team in 2022-2023. It has some really great players like Rikus Schulte, Ellias Rapique and Linus Ruff just to name a few.

We had a very special team with incredible talents on every position. The team chemistry was amazing. I still have contact with a lot of them. I learned a lot from Elias, Nils and even Jack Kayil, who’s my age.

Last season the Young Rasta Dragons beat Alba Berlin in 3 games in the semi-finals. How tough was that series and what will you always learn from it?

It was tough, because I came back from an injury that series and the Top4 was in Berlin. I learned that losing only makes you stronger.

You continue to make steps in the Alba Berlin organization. Has there been a coach in the last years that has impacted you most with his basketball teaching?

My NBBL coach Vladimir Bogojevic and the individual coach Emanuele Berti have for sure had the most impact on me. I learned and am still learning many things from them.

You have had your break out season in the Pro B with Lok Bernau averaging 11/6/3 stats. How has your game grown in the Pro B this season?

Being used to playing against grown men since last season, has helped my game to grow this year. The confidence in my shot is slowly coming and being able to play through contact helps.

You also train with easyCredit BBL team Alba Berlin. How challenging has that been. What have you learned in the short time from Pedro Calles? He really has turned the season around.

It was challenging at first because of the pace they play at. You need to take quicker decisions and react faster. I learned from him that as a young player you have to work hard and always give 100%.

Is there a player that has had a real big impact on you? Maybe a Matt Thomas or a Martin Hermannsson?

No, not really. Elias Rapieque is helping me a lot, with giving tips and answering questions.. But I really like to observe how professional and how dedicated Matt Thomas is. He’s a really good role model for young players.

You have played a few Euroleague games. How cool has that been? Did you have jitters going into the Milan game?

That was so cool. Seeing the best players in Europe, like Mike James, was unreal. I was so freaking nervous against Milan, and winning the game too, was incredible.

How big is your goal to have a flourishing basketball career? You got a 1 on your German school test despite speaking French and English. What interests do you have outside of basketball if you had to have another job outside of basketball?

Basketball is my main goal. I like architecture, so something with buildings or designing houses.

Who is the toughest player that you have battled in your life on the court that reached the NBA?

I practiced with Franz and Mo Wagner, so probably them. I played against some top prospects in this year’s NBA Draft like Egor Demin, Nolan Traoré and Kasparas Jakucionis.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jack Kayil,Rikus Schulte, Elias Rapieque, Nils Machowski, David Torresani

Please list your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore of your 4 best players in each category?

I just want to say it’s my favourite players

Nba: Lebron James, Anthony Edwards, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady

Euroleague Kevin Punter, Wade Baldwin, Mike James, Milos Teodosic

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Who will reach the NBA final and then win it all?

Cavs and Wolves and the Cavs winning it all.

Thanks Dorian for the chat.

Dominik Dolic´s(FC Bayern Munich) Big Goal Is The Euroleague Or NBA But He is Patient And Wants To Continue To Improve Step By Step

pic credit: Helloitsjana

Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) is a 18 year old 190cm guard from Croatia playing his fourth season in the FC Bayern Munich organization. This season he played with the FC Bayern Munich Pro B team averaging 11,6ppg, 2,5rpg and 3,4apg and in the NBBL averaged 16,8ppg, 3,8rpg, 4,8apg and 2,2spg and helped the team reach the NBBL top 4. Last season he played with FC Bayern Muenchen U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 77.5%, and with FC Bayern Muenchen 2nd Team (Germany-ProB) averaged 6.6ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 22.6%, FT: 64.0%. In the 2022-2023 season he played 9 Pro B games averaging 2,2ppg and with the NBBL team averaged 6.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT-3 (48.6%), FT: 84.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his career.

Thanks Domink for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 193 cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

For NBA I would say it’s Jamal Murray or Vasilije Micic. For EuroLeague it’s Milos Teodosic or Kostas Sloukas. All of them of course as young versions, I really can’t compare myself with them.

Your game really grew this season. You averaged only 4 minutes more, but your scoring went way up. How key was having more responsibility and freedom?

I think it’s not only about having more responsibility or freedom. last season didn’t go really well for me personally especially because of the injury I had. So this year was the time to step up.

You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. What other strengths does your game have?

Playing two ways and also the defensive plays I’m able to make. Also getting the team going.

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

My on ball defense is good in my opinion but I still have room for improvement in my off ball defense.

You almost averaged 5 assists in the NBBL this season. What do you still have to do as a playmaker to make the next step?

I still sometimes search for the direct assist even if another pass maybe would be the better option and also involving everybody with being a verbal leader on the court

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

My shooting this season was better than last year but there is always place for improvement that’s what I’m working on the most and also I spend a lot of time in the weight room working especially on lateral movement and jumps.

You are now in your 4th season with FC Bayern Munich. What do you enjoy most about being part of this famous organization?

You have everything in this club, I enjoy the most that I can use the gym at anytime I want and working with the best coaches. Also the medical team is really great.

What has been the coolist experience in Munich the last years? You must of met some famous football and basketball players?

The coolest experience was going to the Allianz Arena sitting in the first row and watching football champions league and also watching some EuroLeague games in the Sap Garden such as Partizan or Panathinaikos

You scored 16 points, had 12 assist and 4 rebounds in a loss to Serbia at the U-16 Euro? Was that one of your most complete youth games in your career?

Yeah of course but that was the first game that we won?? against Serbia in the u16 euro. I still look back to this day with a smile that was indeed one of my best performance on the court.

What is your biggest goal as a player? Continuing to climb the ladder and reach the Euroleague?

Yes my personal goal is one day to reach the highest level in Europe or even the NBA, if possible, but I take the things with patience and will improve step by step

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Ivan Kharchenkov and you or Ivan Volf?

Though to say depends who has a great touch this day so I say a draw against both

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

The toughest player I faced was Rayan Rupert when we played a friendly game against Insep Paris with the 2003 Bayern NBBL generation in Paris

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Michael Ruzic, Ivan Kharchenkov, Martin Kalu, Ivan Volf, Alec Anigbata

Please name your personal NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

NBA: Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Drazen Petrovic

EuroLeague: Milos Teodosic, Vassilis Spanoulis, Dejan Bodiroga, Mike James

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Dominik for the chat.

Ivan Volf Appreciates Strapping On The FC Bayern Jersey And Coolest Experience So Far Was Playing Euroleague In Piraus

pic credit: helloitsjania

Ivan Volf (195-SG-2006) is a 18 year old 195cm shooting guard playing for FC Bayern Munich. This season he played 4 easyCredit BBL games, 23 Pro B games averaging 10,7ppg, 4,0rpg, 2,9apg and 1,3spg, and played 12 NBBL games averaging 12,7ppg. 6,2rpg 4,9apg and 2,4spg. He came to FC Bayern Munich many years ago and also played at the U-16 and U-18 Eurochampionships for Croatia. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the 2025 NBBL top 4 in Berlin.

Congrats Ivan for reaching the 2025 NBBL top 4 again. It will be your second in a row. Is the excitement bigger than the last year?

Thank you. I would say the goal stays the same but the excitement is bigger because it is my last NBBL year.

How focused and motivated are you to finally win this title? I can imagine that you are bursting inside to finally to win?

After three bronze medals in the last three years we are very focused and motivated for this upcoming final four.

2 years ago Ivan Kharchenkov was injured and Munich lost, last season he played great and Munich lost. How much misfortune has Munich had the last 2 years?

In the last 2 years we had great teams with very good individual players but every year we were missing something and it was just not enough to win the title.

The last season you and Dolic were a little in the shadow of Khrachenkov. Now he is gone and you 2 run the team. How vital was having him on the team the last 2 years for your basketball development and competiveness level?

It was very vital for us. Especially to compete every day against him or to play with him and also just to have that kind of player in your team made everything much easier.

Congrats on a great regular season and playoffs as you had a 16-2 record. The season still wasn´t easy as you won some close games. How challenging was the season and do you feel like the mental toughness grew and will help you against Vechta?

Thank you. No game was easy this year. Nobody gave us anything. The mental toughness grew for sure. We had a lot of ups and downs this season and we were in difficult situations this year, but we learned a lot from it.

The guard trio of Volf, Sermpezis, Dolic is great, but the team also has other weapons. Do you feel like the bigs with Yiamu,Muratovic and Duck is underrated?

The big trio of Yiamu, Muratovic and Duck is very talented and very important for our team. We are very happy to have them.

You and Dominik Dolic are a great guard duo and have played together for years. You guys must know each others tendencies blindly. What do you appreciate most about his game?

I have known Dolic for years and we understand each other very well. His competiveness level is amazing. I like the way he makes pressure on the ball in the defense. How he controls the ball and attacks the basket.

How valuable is Greek player Nikolas Sermpezis? What extra dimension does he give the team and guard rotation that Dolic and you don´t give?

To have Sermpezis in our team who bites in the defense and who likes to play fast, making shots from the distance is helping us for sure.

2 key players will be Caspar Vossenberg and Andrija Susic. Talk a little about what each guy brings to the table and how they will help you reach the final?

Both are young and talented guards and can play many positions. Susic with his strong left hand can create good situations to score the ball, also from distance. Vossenberg, who is very athletic and strong for his age, can finish in many situations. Just these things from them will help us reach the finals.

One of the leaders on the team is Desmond Yiamu. He is an undersized big that always finds ways to score. How special is he as a player and person who fled the Ukraine war?

Desmond is a quiet guy. He knows how to play the game. Strong in the defense and dominant under the basket. We are very happy to have him. His effort, despite what he has been through in the past, is just incredible.

How cool is it being on the same team with little brother Marko. He is from the year 2010. Are you like a mentor for him?

It is nice to play with my little brother in the same team. To see how he competes and develops is great. Of course, I want to be the best I can be and give everything, so that he can look up to me.

How big is the revenge factor against Vechta? Last year you lost to them in Berlin. They lost Kayil and Bonga but have more guard power this year. What will be key to getting win?

After losing the semi-final last year we are ready to play against Vechta this year again. We just have to focus on our game and be ready for everything.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 195cm guard. How would you describe the development of your game this season in the Pro B and NBBL? Your minutes didn´t change much in the Pro B. Did you feel even more responsibility this season?

I am happy how I developed this year and sure, I felt more responsibility.

You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. What other strengths does your game have?

I can understand and read the game very well and also I am very supportive towards my teammates while playing.

You can defend 1-4. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

My goal is to improve and get better so that I am able to guard every position.

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

Improving my ballhandling and attacking the basket in different ways.

What do you enjoy most about being part of this famous organization?

I have been part of it since I am child and I am just happy to wear the logo and to see how much the interest in the organization has grown since I have started.

What has been the coolest experience in Munich the last years? You must of met some famous football and basketball players?

I believe it was the debut in the Euroleague in Piraus. It was an unforgettable moment for me.

How beneficial is it practicing with guys like Shabaz Napier and Carson Edwards. What is the most important thing that you have learned from him?

I have learned many things from them but just the way how they practice and how consistent they are, that is just another level. Also very kind and positive, I am very happy to share the court with these guys.

What are your memories from your first Euroleague game against Olympiakos where you scored 4 points in 8 minutes? Were you very nervous?

I just took my chance that day. Just to play in front of this kind of crowd is what we are working so hard for. Of course I was nervous but it passed as soon as I was on the court.

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

Reed Sheppard. I played against him in Italy in a tournament.

Please name your personal NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

Euro: Drazen Petrovic, Toni Kukoc, Dino Rada, Jelena Ivezic. NBA: Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal.

Who is your GOAT?

MJ.

Thanks Ivan for the chat.

Oliver Kullamae Comes From A Basketball Family And Has Learned About Mentality And Work Ethic The Most From Dad Geert And Brother Kristian

Pic credit: Fiba

Oliver Kullamaee (186-G-2007) is a 17 year old 186cm guard from Estonia that is playing for the ratiopharm Ulm organization that this season played for various team like BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 10/4/4, for Orange Academy (NBBL) averaging 6/2/1 and for the NBBL team averaged 5/2/3 helping them reach the NBBL top 4. Last season he played with BBU 01 Ulm (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 7.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.3%, played also at OrangeAcademy U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 11.8ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-2 (6.7apg), Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 50.0%. He came to Ulm in 2022 coming from Audentese SK. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career..

Thanks Oliver for talking to germanhoops.com. Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA or Euroleagueplayer who would best fit the description?

If I’d have to compare myself to somebody I would choose a player like Huertas or Rubio. Bit of a smaller guard but crafty.

You’re a player that leads a team and is the pure playmaker. What other strengths does your game have?

I think other than that I’m also a good shot creator. I haven’t really had to show it here in Ulm but for example in the national team it’s different.

How much of a challenge is it being more of a scorer on teams like Orange Academy (Pro B) and the NBBL team when you have many scoring options.

This year the team didn’t rely on my scoring. My job was to set up the offense and to take care of the ball. That doesn’t mean that I wasn’t aggressive or didn’t look to score at all. It just wasn’t my main responsibility. We had guys like Fredi, Jordan and Alec who could do that.

Are you more focused now of becoming a better playmaker and all around player as opposed to becoming a better scorer?

Right now I’m more focused on becoming a better scorer. I can still get quite passive at times, look for others too much at times. Modern point guards can do everything.

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

I’d say right now I’m an all right defender, but there’s a lot of room for improvement. As a smaller guard you have to provide something on the defensive side as well. You cannot be a liability. Obviously the goal is to become an elite defender.

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

Definitely my shooting. My percentages weren’t great this year but I wouldn’t say that I’m a bad shooter at all. Other thing is just getting stronger and bigger.

You come from a great basketball family. Your dad Geert had a long career and I saw your dad play with Bamberg and your brother Kristian continues to climb the basketball ladder. How vital has both of these guys been in your basketball development? What is the most important thing you could learn from both?

It has benefited me a lot coming from a basketball family. Being around basketball since a very young age and starting to learn the game already that young. After rough games I can always ask for advice from both of them. The most important thing I’ve learned from both are mentality and work ethic.

You played at the recent Addidas Next Generation Euroleagueaveraging 8/4/5 stats. What kind of an experience was that and what do you enjoy most from being able to play with your Ulm teammates one more time?

Playing at such a high level tournament is always a good experience. We had a great group and I think we did well. Although that game against Zalgiris is still a bit bitter. It’s always more fun when you have teammates who you really enjoy playing with.

You aren´t much older than big talent Teo Millicic but a few years make a difference at the youth level. What kind of a relationship do you have with him. Is being a mentor for you even possible at so young an age?

Me and Teo have a great relationship. Out of all my teammates I enjoy training with Teo the most. His level of competitiveness is always at the highest, which encourages me to also train harder. I wouldn’t consider myself a mentor. If either of us has a question we always help each other

Last season you played your first real full season in Ulm playing Regionalliga, NBBL and Pro B. How important has it been playing Regionalliga where you play against men. How has your game profited most from this competition?

In Regionalliga I had more freedom than in Pro B or NBBL. The main focus wasn’t that much on winning, rather developing and having the chance to play against men. This was one of the teams where we relied a bit more on my scoring. Overall it was great for my development.

Last summer you played at the U-18 Euro averaging 10/3/9/2 stats. In 7 games you averaged 10 assists or more. Is it fair to say that this was your break through in Europe? You almost averaged 10 assists in the tournament and played against 7 different countries staying consistent?

Playing against competition a year older I would say I did a fine job. Of course there were a few too many turnovers but overall I did okay. This year I play against guys my age and I look to have an even better summer. In my opinion we have a great chance of winning the B division.

What is your big goal as a basketball player? Possibly the Euroleague?

My big goal is to reach the highest level I possibly can. My dream has always been to play for Barcelona

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Jordan Mueller?

I’d say that Jordan wins 65% of the time.

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

The toughest player I ever faced on the court, who hasn’t reached the NBA just yet but definitely will in the summer, was Egor Demin.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jordan Müller

Pacome Dadiet

Noa Essengue

Kaur Kennerth Tomann

Endurance Ayamenkhue

Please name your personal NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore?

NBA:

Steph Curry

Kobe Bryant

Lebron James

Michael Jordan

Euroleague:

Luka Doncic

Vassilis Spanoulis

Milos Teodosic

Kevin Punter

Who is your GOAT?

My GOAT is Kobe Bryant.

Thanks Oliver for the chat.

Harm-Ubbo Horst And Rasta Academy Want To Defend Their NBBL Title With Character And Heart And Believing In Themselves


Harm-Ubbo Horst is a German head coach currently coaching the Rasta Acadcemy NBBL (U-19) team. He began his coaching career in Vechta and then coached 2 years in Dresden where he was an assistant coach with the Pro B team Titans and also the NBBL coach. Last season he led the Young Rasta dragons to the NBBL title. He spoke to germanhoops.com about being defending champions.

Thanks Habo for talking to germanhoops.com. Welcome back to the NBBL top 4. How does it feel as defending champion?

It feels really good heading to Berlin as defending champion. We have more experience and are calmer than last year. The guys are really excited and have great memories from last year. The guys are all really hot for the game against Munich to begin.

Vechta Academy had a super season being 15-3 and swept Oldenburg and Paderborn. How is the mental state of this team going to Berlin and do you feel pressure?

We may have had a good looking record, but to be honest it wasn´t always so clear during the season that we would be successful. We didn´t find our defined game style until after the regular season game against Rostock. I don´t believe that we feel pressure. The guys are excited and have freedom and positive feelings.

Vechta Academy lost some key players like Jack Kayil, Joshua Bonga and Karl Buehner and others. Is the team on paper this year a bit weaker than last season?

Yes I would say so. Last season´s team was different. We had a clear definition of players playing the positions 3-5. I still believe that we have a lot of talent this year and have more guards than last season.

I guess you could never replace a potent guard duo like Jack Kayil and Joshua Bonga, but you did get Roy Krupnikas. He didn´t play many games because he was mostly with the Vechta Pro A team. He once was at the top 4 with Rostock in the JBBL top 4 in 2022. Could this be the moment for him to really step up`

I would hope so. But I don´t know if it will be necessary. We are very deep at the guard position. We have many ball handlers and shooters that can make a play. That is a big weapon of ours. Each player can make that next deciding play.

Talk a little about big talent Peja Strobel. How have you witnessed his development and what is his biggest strength?

He needed some time to get used to the Euro game. He was in the States last season and played well at the high school level. After some time in the NBBL, he showed that he could be a scorer. He is a great shooter. He hit the deciding three pointer against Paderborn to put the game into overtime.

In the last years you were very fortunate to have great bigs like Johan Grunloh and Karl “Mr rebound” Buehner. This season there is only one real true big man with Fynn Lastring. Do you feel like he can make an impact in Berlin?

I think that he can. His spacing qualities are really good. He is an inside out player and you don´t see that so often.

Noah Koch continues to develop very well. He shows that he can help the team in so many ways. Is he becoming like a Swiss army knife?

That is a great description for him. He can create for himself and others, make the game fast, get second chances and defend many positions.

Moritz Gruss also is one of the most talented 16 year old on your team. How have you seen his development. Is he more than just a 3 and D player?

Yes he is. But we have many talented players from the year 2008. He can defend many positions, is a good ball handler and reads the game very well. He is like a secret weapon for us that gives the team a push forward.

Is it fair to say that Marko Petric is your star player or is a better description your leader?

Leader sounds better. Our team has a star ensemble with guys like Koch, Krupnikas and Lastring. Marko showed in the Oldenburg series just how much he wanted to win and pushed his team forward.

Talk a little about newcomers Louis Sutor and Felix Chrisiansen. What do they bring to the table?

Sutor is very versatile. He is moble and defend many positions. Christiansen gives good pressure on the ball and is a good shooter. He does a lot of the little things not seen on the stat sheet

How have you developed further as a coach this season? On what areas of your coaching have you worked on most?

We already played small ball 2 years ago in the JBBL top 4, but nobody noticed. A big challenge was not being able to practice as a team regularly. We play a different style this season different from what the guys played with the men´s teams. It was a challenge adjusting from the styles from the men´s to the NBBL.

You have worked many years with Hendrik Gruehn and I´m sure you have a great friendship as well. How has he developed further this season as a coach despite a tough pro A season?

I think that he developed well this season. We always talk after games and practices and are critical with each other. His biggest strength is being able to give his players energy on the court and them being able to implement it on the court. He lost a lot of talented players and got new ones and had to develop them further in the Pro A. That is hard to do.

Do you observe how a guy like Martin Schiller operates? What have you learned from him?

Martin is very interested in our youth program. He always gives one extra practice per week for the young players. He is very good and schooling habits and repeating them over and overt. He has an immense presence in practice. It was great being able to experience that this season.

You face tough FC Bayern Munich in the semi-finals. They have incredible guards. What will be key to getting win?

I believe that we will win with our character. We will be ready to battle FC Munich and defend aggressive and believe in ourselves. We will probably play less tactical than them, but we will play with heart and dive for every ball.

Who will win the other semi final with ratiopharm ulm and Alba Berlin?

That is tough to predict. I know that Vladi Bogojevic will have his team ready. I really like Florian Flabb´s coaching as well. But I think that ratiopharm Ulm has the upper hand because Alba Berlin played two 3 game playoff series.

What is your opinion of many young German guys going overseas to play college basketball? That will hurt all leagues in that the quality of Germans will go down.

I think that it will lead to problems. On one hand with many leaving, that will give other players a chance. We will have to get adjusted to it. I think now instead of preparing guys for the NBA, it will be preparing guys for college. We have to make the best out of it.

Thanks Habbo for the chat