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Jordan Roland Enjoys The Special Basketball Culture In Trier And Isn´t Worried About His 3 Point Shooting Percentage After 4 Games

Pic credit: Simon Engelbert

It was 10 very long years for Trier basketball fans as their beloved basketball team Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier had to endure life in the second division Pro A. That last season in the BBL in 2014-2015 was brutal as they finished in 17th place and had to move down. Moving back to the BBL isn´t self evident as teams Like Bremerhaven are in their seventh consecutive Pro A season while other clubs like Giessen and BG Goettingen have been back, but can´t hold the momentum to stay. It is never easy for clubs to reestablish themselves back in the first division. Because of that it is extra refreshing when a club like Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier return and take the BBL by storm as they have with a 4-0 record. They are actually 5-0 including their cup win. The excitement would probably be bigger if there weren’t teams like Wurzburg and Weissenfels who are also unbeaten. Trier basketball was gone from the BBL for a long time and it is very evident that everyone involved is super grateful to be back.

“Basketball life is going great at the moment for us. We have had 4 big wins and beaten well established teams like Alba Berlin and Rostock. You notice right away here during the day to day on the court and in the office that people have wanted to be back in the BBL for a while. Everyone is super excited. One also sees that with our intro video before games that the organization is centered to be back in the BBL”, stressed Jordan Roland (185-PG-1997, college: Northeastern).

The Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier should of already moved up a season ago, but were rudely bounced out of the playoffs by Frankfurt. But last season they were on a mission and finally made it back to the BBL. The way the club has played now, it seems like they have taken the momentum from last season into this season! They kept many players and only added a few pieces including current team top scorer Eli Brooks as well as ultra veteran and winner Urald King who has won titles in 3 different countries.

“For sure. I think that a big part of this has been being able to keep so many players from last season. It is super tough to be able to keep so many players together, but being able to do that has been so important for our success. Adding UK has been so big. He is versatile and so experience. He has been a huge addition for us”, stated Jordan Roland.

Some clubs think big and sometimes that kind of mentality can come back and bite you in the behind. But the The Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier had the correct mentality right from the get go and didn´t think to big and forget what is realistic. Their goal is to win 12 games in the easyCredit BBL. They are already one third of the way to that goal. But isn´t this team better than just winning 12 games?

“The goal is to win 12 games and we are already on a good path to beat that. Usually the goal of a team that moved up is to stay in the league. But we feel like despite the current success, we can´t set the bar higher. Winning 12 games for us was more a base than a lofty goal”, warned Jordan Roland.

To be successful, so many things have to come into place. One has to have the right players and develop a sound team chemistry. That is something that is already cemented, but there are also so many other factors like having the right coach as well as having certain special aspects that makes coming to work every day so much more enjoyable. With Jacques Schneider who had to pay his dues for many years as an assistant in Leverkusen, everything has fallen into place since becoming head coach in 2024. His coaching methods and treasure chest have motivated his players.

“I love to play for coach. I like that he allows us to play fast and gives everyone freedom. He leads us well and keeps us together. Having good chemistry already now has been big for our success. He has been able to get high quality players all on one page and establish a culture. I´m not sure if the treasure chest has been an extra motivation for us to perform better, but everyone wants to win and having the treasure chest aspect is really cool. Being able to take a goal and visualize it is important. We really look forward to it when we win games”, added Jordan Roland.

Back 10 years ago, teams like Alba Berlin and Bamberg were the crème de la crème in Germany and in the 2014-2015 season, Trier did play Alba Berlin tough once losing in OT 86-83, but the other time stunk out the arena losing 91-54 and against Bamberg were swept badly losing 71-64 and the second time being blown out badly 84-44. Those were the days when being a Trier basketball fan was extremely tough, but in 2025 the season isn´t even a month old and they beat both Alba Berlin and Bamberg. Beating Alba Berlin on the road was like extra icing on the cake.

“To be able to win in the Uber arena was huge. That is like a NBA arena. The Alba Berlin organization carry a lot of weight in Germany. It was cool to get the win for some of the ex Alba players on our roster”, commented Jordan Roland.

Another interesting aspect to the The Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier early success has been their ability to win crunch time games. They didn´t just win 1 or 2, but right away 3 in a row

Being able to win so many close games so early in the season says a lot for our continuity. Having that just makes everything feel more comfortable in a situation like in Berlin. We had control against Bamberg and Braunschweig, then lost it, but came back and won. That says a lot for the character of our team”, warned Jordan Roland.

One of the team´s big strengths is their pace as they have demonstrated that they are one of the most high paced teams in the BBL. That they allow 82 points is only normal when they play so high paced. Working on their defense is a daily thing that the club continues to work on. Every player has a role and every guy is important in their own way. But there couldn´t be 2 more key guys than captain Maik Zirbes who has played in the Euroleague and won 15 titles as well as Behnam Yakhchali who can do it all and just knows how to make the crucial plays.

“With all the experience that Maik has, he commands a certain level of respect. He is a great leader and motivates us all. He plays so hard and shows in practice that nobody can stop him. He is an elite inside presence and keeps everyone together. He is also huge off the court hosting. Behnam brings that clutch factor. I remember last season when he hit 2 big three pointers in Munster. He always plays hard and leaves all on the court. He is unselfish and a team first guy”, warned Jordan Roland.

Jordan Roland and Eli Brooks have been a lethal a 1-2 scoring punch at the guard position. Brooks is averaging 16,5ppg, 3,0rpg and 4,8apg while shooting a potent 47% from the parking lot. While Roland is averaging 15,5pp, 3,0rpg and 2,3apf, but is only shooting 28% from outside. 2 seasons ago in Rostock, he was at 43% and last season 38%. He has that same role from last season which is to score, shoot, defend at a high level and be team first.

Eli is a great player. He is also a team first player and totally unselfish. He is a threat in so many ways. He is a great shooter and can create for himself and others. You can´t take one thing away. He really gives us another dimension. I have been content with my game. The most important thing is that we are winning. Of course I would like to be shooting the ball better. I´m confident my shooting will improve. I have been in the high 30´s and 40% my whole career. It has only been 4 games in. I´m not concerned”, warned Jordan Roland.

A big part of Roland´s game is his leadership. He showed in Rostock and last season that he can help move a team up to the easyCredit BBL. In a way he pulled a Chris Carter last season in Trier. He couldn´t have had a better mentor in Chris Carter that has done the magic 4 times helping Vechta, Chemnitz, Rostock and Jena move up to the BBL.

“Chris was huge for me my first year in Rostock. He was a great leader on and off the court. I remember him helping me feel comfortable off the court. He helped me with groceries and getting adapted to the language barrier. He did many of the little things off the court like hosting”, remembered Jordan Roland who will always take himself in a 1-1 battle in practice against Eli Brooks.

Even if the easyCredit BBL regular season takes a 1 week break, the The Vet-Concept Gladiators Trier are not idle, but have a do or die game against the Telekom Baskets in cup play. Bonn has found their groove slowly having a 2 game winning streak after losing the first 2 games. They aren´t a high scoring team, but have defended well allowing only 73 points on average in the first 4 BBL regular season games. Trier have a 5 game winning streak and want to keep it going.

“Bonn is a good defensive team and we are a good defensive team. We just have to be able to play our game. It will be huge if we can play our style. We have a great home crowd. The energy hasn´t worn off. We have to keep the momentum going”, stressed Jordan Roland.

David Nichols (Sabah BK Baku) Still Has A Big Chip On His Shoulder And Will Continue To Grind And Be An Impact Player In The BCL

David Nichols (183-PG-1996, college: FSU) is a 29 year old 183cm point guard from North Carolina playing his 7th professional season and first with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). He has extensive professional experience having played in countries like Cyprus, Slovenia, Belgium, France, Finland, Hungary and Turkey. He began his basketball career at Elite Prep academy and then played at Mount Carmel high school. He then played at the University of Albany (NCAA) from 2015-2018 playing a total of 82 games and then finished at Florida State University (NCAA) averaging 4ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 69.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against Alba Berlin.

Thanks David for talking to germanhoops.com. You have played in 7 countries in your first 6 seasons and this year have an eight country with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL). What do you enjoy most about the globetrotter life?

Seeing new places, discovering different cultures, trying new foods and learning the history of each country that I play in.

Your playing your first season with Sabah BK Baku (Azerbaijan-ABL) and your Basketball Champions League competition. What have you appreciated most about the club Sabah?

This will be my first year playing this competition as long as the team’s first time competing in the BCL. They are a new team only a few years old and they are trying to build something special and I’m happy to play my part in it.

You have seen so many different countries in Europe. What has been something you have picked up in Azerbaijan that you haven´t seen in other countries?

Honestly I haven’t been in the country long enough to answer that question I’ve only been in Azerbaijan for a couple of weeks.

You have put up incredible stats wince being a rookie in Cyprus. It took you 6 seasons to reach a top league with the Turkish BSL. How big is the chip on your shoulder?

I still have a big chip on my shoulder, I showed that I can play in a top 2 league in Europe and contribute for a team at a high level so now I want to show what I can do in the Basketball Champions League. So I’m not satisfied at all in that standpoint.

Do you feel like possibly your height has kept you from playing in France, Italy or in Germany? Your hunger and fire must be growing every season?

No, I don’t think height matters at this level there are plenty of 6 foot guards playing everywhere at every level. I’ve had opportunities to play in these countries and many others that I’ve declined. So I don’t think it has impacted anything in my career.

Q: Last season you began with Arconic-Alba Fehervar (Hungary-A Division) averaging 18.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 9.1apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 62.8%, 3FGP: 44.4%, FT: 77.8%. You love to get those dimes and had 21 in a game. Is there an NBA passer you have modelled your game after?

Last season I wanted to expand my game even more to show that I can play make at an elite level with not only scoring but my passing as well. And no there is no NBA player that I watch in terms of passing the pall because it’s such a different game. I watch guys like DJ Cooper and Milos Teodosic. I will watch Luka Doncic when he is playing with Slovenia because he is a master at reading Pick and Rolls and making the right read every single time.

You then finished the season with to Semt77 Yalova Belediye Spor (Turkey-BSL) averaging 12.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 5.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 49.4%, FT: 66.7%. How satisfying was this season? You proved to all that you can be an impact player in a top league?

It was very satisfying for me in my personal journey. Playing against Euroleague, Eurocup and Champions League teams every single week and producing at a high level showed that I can play anywhere in Europe.

You lost but were the best player on the floor against Euroleague teams Efes and Fenerbahce and guys like PJ Dozier, Bonzie Colson, Devon Hall, Khem Birch and Errick McCullum. What do you believe is missing for you to play at the Eurocup or Euroleague level?

I don’t think anything is missing, all I can do is control what I can control and thats what I do on the court. So I will continue to play and do everything to help whatever team I am on win games and the rest will take care of itself.

Q: You played the 2023-2024 season with Sopron KC (Hungary-A Division) averaging 18.5ppg, 3.7rpg, APG-4 (5.7), 1.5spg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 83.9%. What kind of an experience was it? You had some monster games like 37 points against Szedeak?

This year was a bounce back year for me personally. I had a lot to prove to myself and I think I did that. It was a good experience playing in a respected league like Hungary.

Q: You played the 2022-2023 season with Aix-Maurienne SavoieBasket (France-ProB) averaging 17.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.8apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 47.7%, 3FGP: 38.2%, FT: 78.7%, in Mar.’23 moved to Lapuan Kobrat (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 29.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.3apg, 1.5spg. How did you enjoy the France Pro B league? A league on the rise?

Pro B France is widely recognized as the best second division league in Europe and better than a lot of first division leagues. Every game there was a challenge and I had some individual success but the team struggled so it was another challenge and good learning experience.

Q: You played the 2021-2022 season with Belfius Mons-Hainaut averaging 12.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.2% in the BNXT and in the FIBA Europe Cupaveraged 11.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 33.3%. How key was this season for your basketball development?

This was my first introduction to European competition in the form of the FIBA Europe Cup so it was good to have this experience and to see the level of different countries.

You were teammates with American Justin Cage who played more than a decade with Belfius. What memories do you have of him who was the ultimate teammate?

He was the ultimate leader and the ultimate professional. Everyday you got the same guy that was ready to work and ready to do whatever it took for the team to succeed. I also followed in his foot steps when it came to off the court. He met his wife in Belgium and so did I.

You played a season with Rogaska Crystal (Slovenia-Liga Nova KBM,) averaging PPG-1 (19.4), 4.4rpg, APG-3 (6.5), 1.3spg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 82.9%. What was tougher losing the playoff series to Krka or losing 78-77 to Sencur Gor despite having a triple double?

Definitely losing in the playoffs because we were one game away from making the finals. With the team we had and the budget we had nobody expected us to even make the playoffs in this league and we went to the final four of the Cup and the playoffs so that was a special year. The team we had was special and everybody has gone on to have successful careers after and when you look back on it you can see how talented of a team we had and it just wasn’t a lucky season. We had a great group of guys.

You played your rookie season with Omonia Nicosia (Cyprus-OPAP Basket League) averaging PPG-1 (23.8), 5.2rpg, 4.5apg, SPG-4 (1.9), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 87.6%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My wake up call to life overseas was the amount of turn around that I saw in Europe. Within the first two months I had a new coach and 2 new teammates. It showed how cutthroat and how much of a business playing overseas is. No matter what level you are at or how much money you are making. If you don’t perform things can change for you quick in a positive way or in a negative way. So you always have to expect the unexpected.

What was it like being teammates with veteran Nate Britt who played at North Carolina (NCAA)? Was he like a mentor for you?

It was nice playing with a NCAA Champion, anybody with that kind of experience knows how to win and what a winning team looks like. I don’t think the age gap was large enough to call him a mentor or even a veteran because he wasn’t overseas much longer than me. But definitely a guy who had answers if you had questions and had no problem sharing his experiences.

You played at the University at Albany (NCAA) from 2015-2018 and made big strides in your game in your last 2 seasons averaging 17.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 83.0% and 14.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 77.2%. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons?

I grew a lot as a basketball player in these two seasons. I went from a freshman that barely played to 1st team all Conference in a year. So playing two very different roles was a good learning experience. Playing with zero expectations and then playing with major expectations helped me for my future.

You played 1 more season with Florida State University (NCAA)averaging 6.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 69.4%. You reached the NCAA Sweet 16. What memories do you have this run? How tough was it not being able to play Murray State and Gonzaga?

I have a lot of amazing memories of my time at Florida State and our tournament runs in the ACC and NCAA tournament. It was terrible not to be able to finish the season at full strength and with our full team. The last time we played with our entire team we beat the eventual champions Virginia.

You had a great game in a losing cause against North Carolina scoring 16 points. What was it like holding your own against Coby White and other future NBA players? What memories do you have of that game?

When you play at a high level you will find yourself playing against future NBA players multiple times a year so it wasn’t anything unusual. And when you look at our team I was practicing against NBA guys every day.

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

Coach Hamilton is one of the greatest coaches of all time and I was lucky to have played for him. He did everything in his power to make sure I was successful on and off court and later in life.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Trent Forrest?

Strangely enough I don’t think we ever played. I actually don’t ever remember playing 1-1 when I was at Florida State.

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

Zion Williamson was tough to play against because he played both ends at an extremely high level. You had to always know where he was when you were on the court.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Terance Mann (Brooklyn Nets)

Devin Vassell (San Antonio Spurs)

Trent Forrest (Baskonia)

Mfiondu Kabengele (Dubai BC)

Raiquan Gray (AEK)

I will stick with all Florida State Guys.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore (5 best players ever)?

Kyrie Irving

LeBron James

Michael Jordan

Steph Curry

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

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

I’ve never seen either one so I can’t give an answer on this one.

Thanks David for the chat.

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 2

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Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.

Congrats Tore on the big 114-69 win over Freibeuter. It seems like every win this season is a cake walk. Was this win as easy as the score suggests?

Honestly, the score looks one-sided, but every game has its moments. We stayed focused, but Freibeuter made us work for it early. Nothing comes easy if you want to play at your best.

Talk a little about the 40 minutes. Was the game as easy as the score shows? Was there any down phase in the game from Bargteheide?

There were a few stretches where we had to reset defensively. I think we handled it well and never let it turn into a long slide. It’s about staying consistent the full 40 minutes, and I think we did that.

Bargteheide did a good job taking care of the ball and won the rebound battle. But despite that, was defense the biggest strength on the night?

Defense always sets the tone for us. We take pride in protecting the paint and forcing turnovers. Tonight, it helped us get out in transition and score easy buckets.

How key was Jamo Ruppert who scored 15 points in 20 minutes off the bench? What do you enjoy most about his game?

Jamo was huge for us tonight. He’s confident, moves without the ball, and always seems to make the right play. I love that he can change the game in a short time—it makes a big difference.

Bargteheide has allowed only 70 points in the last 2 games and eclipsed 100 points on offense in 4 of 5 games. How does the team remain hungry when one is already so good so early in the season?

We try not to get comfortable. Every game is a challenge, and we know there’s always room to improve. Staying humble, working hard in practice, and focusing on the next game keeps us sharp.

You had a great game of 25/4/8/7. How pleased were you with your performance?

I’m happy with my numbers, but it’s about the team first. If my stats help us win, that’s all that matters. I’m just glad we got the W.

You had 7 steals. Are you the minister of defense on the team?

Haha I don’t know about minister, but I take pride in defense. If I can help the team create opportunities and get stops, I’ll do it any night.

You next play Bergedorf who are 3-1. What will be key to getting win?

We have to focus on the little things—ball movement, communication, and taking care of the defensive end. If we do that, we give ourselves a chance to get another W.

Thanks Tore for the chat.

Max Peters(Skyliners Juniors) Wants To Make The Next Step In The Pro B And Be Important At Both Ends

Maximilian Peters (206-F-2007) is a 18 year old 206cm forward playing for the Skyliners Juniors and Eintracht Frankfurt / Fraport Skyliners U19 team (NBBL). Last season he played 16 game sin the Pro B averaging 2.8ppg, 1.9rpg an din the NBBL averaged 7.6ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 65.0%. At the moment he is injured and spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Max for talking to germanhoops.com. Your currently Injured. How did it happen?

It happened in a test game against Saarlouis. I went for a rebound and fell on the foot of another player.

How is the rehab going?

The rehab is going well and a bit faster than planned. I´m working now on strength and stability.

When are you expected back?

I hope to be back at the start of November for the next home game against FC Bayern Munich.

You improved your NBBL stats last season from 3,0ppg to 7,0ppg. How did your game grow?

I had more volume with taking shots and I became more physical.

You shot only 20% from outside. How much of a goal is it to improve your outside shooting?

It is very important for me to continue to improve my shooting. I had good and bad shooting phases last season. I have to become more consistent. I´m taking more reps than usual.

On what other areas of your game do you want to improve on most?

I´m constantly working on my physicality. I worked a lot last summer with coach Markus Klusemann on my athleticism and explosiveness.

Last season you played 16 Pro B games averaging 2/1. What are your goals in the Pro B this season?

I want to make the next step in the Pro B. I want to be more important on the court at both ends.

What is your impression of the current Pro B team?

The team is very young and has a lot of individual qualities. We are a team that has many good qualities at both ends. I feel like we already have a good chemistry at this stage of the season.

The team has good German scorers with Ivan Crnjac, Dusan Nikolic and Jamie Edoka. What is your role exactly?

My role this season will be to be a scorer from the bench. I want to be that sixth or seventh man off the bench that is able to keep offensive qualities high.

What has been your impression of talented Czech player Lukas Smazak?

He is a really good shooter. But his biggest strength is his passing. His court vision is really good and he is a very smart player.

What is your biggest wish as a player this season?

My biggest wish is that we as a team start winning games in the Pro B and continue to compete well.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Ivan Crnjac?

I win.

Thanks Max for the chat.

The Skyliners Juniors Grind Out 86-80 Victory Over The TSV Oberhaching Tropics To Get First Win Of Season

The good news for the Skyliners Juniors is that the season is still young. The season is still young and so is this seasons team as it has a average age of 19. It is lacking more experience than in past seasons and started at 0-3. The last time that the team began 0-3 was in the 2022-2023 season, but they then turned it around winning 6 of their next 7 games. It was even worse in the Covid season where they started 0-6. The team was back home for their second home game and had a real tough opponent with the TSV Tropics Oberhaching that came into the contest sporting a 2-1 record. Tropics head coach Mario Matic had done a great job leading the team to the playoffs in 3 of the last 4 seasons. This season he is without legend Omari Knox, and part-time player Janosch Koegler, while Jorg Dippold and Fynn Fischer were out, but still had managed so much success. 2 key figures were newcomers Jonathan Zeisberger and veteran 29 year old Nedzad Muratovic who combined averaged 48 of the team 90 points. It would not be a cake walk for Frankfurt who were still without key players Ivan Crnjac, Dusan Nikolic and Maxi Peters. Plus Alvin Oniya was also out after injuring himself during practice during the week. Despite all this misfortune, the Skyliners Juniors still sported a 10 man roster and the team came out in high spirits and gave a total team effort as they finally erased their losing streak with a grind out 86-80 win over the TSV Oberhaching Tropics. Frankfurt had 4 guys score in double figure and 2 guys had double doubles to supply full force. “We simply played together as a team. There were no egos tonight. We had problems with their pressure in the second half, but we stayed together and pulled out the win. Everyone played their part and we played as a team. We all worked hard for the goal to win. Our will was bigger than theirs”, stressed Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka. The TSV Oberaching Tropics had to play catch up basketball from the first minute and weren´t rewarded with their come back attempt in the fourth quarter. “We weren´t ready to play from the first minute. We had too many mistakes, gave up too many offensive rebounds and second chances. We did a good job fighting back and should of won the game. We have to defend better and keep our opponent at 70 points”, stressed TSV Oberaching Tropics guard Jonathan Zeisberger.

Leit Zentgraf at the FT line

The Skyliners Juniors had an explosive first quarter scoring 26 points to set the tone for the game. Both teams found their offensive rhythm right away as the guests received 2 back to back offensive rebounds and put backs from 29 year old Bosnian center Nedzad Muratovic while Frankfurt got lay in´s from Germans ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich and ex Neustadt forward Leif Zentgraf (198-SF-2005). However Frankfurt took the 11-6 lead getting some buckets from Jamie Edoka, but the game was back and forth at this moment as the Bavarian team struck back trailing only 13-11 getting an off balance shot by Zeisberger and a three pointer by Philip “white chocolate” Bode. But the Skyliners Juniors then went on a shooting rage letting it rain three´s as young German reserve Fabrice Heberer hit a clutch three off the bench while athletic forward Julius Messer also connected as did Leif Zentgraf from outside. Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak who displays a fancy pass or 2 in each game also made a pretty the over the shoulder pass a la Larry Bird to German Marvin Esser for the dunk. “He has a big eye for his teammates. His court vision is very special”, stated Jamie Edoka. Oberhaching got a vital three pointer from Janne Muller brother Frederick Muller a few seconds before the buzzer sounded as Frankfurt led 26-18. Both teams hauled down 9 rebounds a piece, but Oberhaching had the 6-1 offensive rebound edge. The Skyliners Juniors shot an overwhelming 71% from the field and 50% from outside while the guests shot only 38% from the field and 29% from outside, Both teams did a good job taking care of the ball as the Skyliners Juniors had 2 and Oberhaching 3. “We moved the ball well and found the open shooters well. We also defended solidly to have the good lead”, added Jamie Edoka.

Frederick Mueller with the lay in

The TSV Oberaching Tropics struck back in the second quarter to only trail by 4 points at the break. The guests stomped all over the Skyliners Juniors in the first minutes going on a 7-2 run to trail only 28-25. Frankfurt came out half hearted and Oberhaching took full advantage of their mistakes. They stepped up the aggressiveness on defense and remained aggressive on offense attacking the rim and drawing fouls. Mueller and young German Levi Weng added lay in´s. The contest remained a real close dog fight as Frankfurt kept their noses ahead 36-34 getting lay in´s off the penetration from Dietrich, Edoka and Messer while Oberhaching got great support from Mueller who scored twice and carried the team. He was super effective off the bench finding his spots and getting to the rim easily with his high intensity. He continued to be a one man wrecking crew for the Tropics scoring 2 more times keeping his team very close, but they couldn´t get the lead. Julius Messer´s athleticism helped him get an easy basket while Smazak hit a clutch three pointer for the 43-38 advantage. Muratovic closed out the second quarter with free throws, but the Skyliners Juniors still had the upper-hand 44-40. The TSV Oberhaching Tropics upped their rebounding to lead 21-15 at the break and had the 8-2 offensive rebound edge. Frankfurt´s shooting percentages dipped to 52% from the field and 31% from the three point line while the guests shot 44% from the field and 29% from the three point line. The Skyliners Juniors had 5 turnovers and Oberhaching had 7. “We were to hectic and not organized enough. They took advantage of it and got back into the game. We weren´t calm and took hectic shots”, stated Jamie Edoka.

Julius Messer with the lay in

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors took better control of the game and led by as much as 14 points, but led 68-56 after 30 minutes. The Skyliners Juniors came out on a mission in the third quarter racing out on a 8-0 run to lead 52-40. They produced 5 stops forcing the guests to bad shots and on their run got a trey from elegant player Leif Zentgraf and a lay in by Edoka. The Skyliners Juniors did a good job managing their lead while still executing soundly on offense and holding their double figure lead. Their biggest strength besides offensive scoring execution was their aggressive work on the offense glass as they scooped up 7 offensive rebounds that kept a lot of their possessions alive and led to easy points. Messer was in constant attack mode getting 2 buckets while Joscha Zentgraf also scored in the paint for the 61-47 lead. Both teams executed well down the stretch as Oberhaching continued to be carried by Mueller who added 6 points. Fabrice Heberer came up big again with a clutch trey off the bench as the Skyliners Juniors led by 12 points after 3 quarters. The Skyliners Juniors stole the rebounding battle back on their side 29-25 as both teams had 9 offensive rebounds a piece as well as 10 turnovers a piece. The Skyliners Juniors shot 50% from the field and 29% from the parking lot and Oberhaching shot 45% from the field and 40% from the parking lot. “We played our game again as a team. Everybody did their job. We were balanced and played the extra pass. We also played fast something which we always want to do”, added Jamie Edoka. “We allowed them to get out on a run again. We weren´t aggressive enough and gave up way too many offensive rebounds”, added Jonathan Zeisberger.

Jonathan Zeisberger at the FT line

In the fourth quarter it looked like the Skyliners Juniors had the win wrapped up early as they led by 17 points, but the TSV Oberhaching Tropics saved up enough energy for a massive run to trail only by 5 points with a few minutes to play, but couldn´t get over the hump. Frederick Mueller kept being aggressive and made big shots to keep Oberhaching in the game with 2 baskets early, but the Skyliners Juniors continued to execute very well getting clutch three´s from Smazak and Leif Zentgraf for 79-62 Juniors lead. However then came the big Tropics run of 14-2 to trail only 81-76 with a few minutes to play. In the run, the Tropics upped their defensive pressure and played more full court press to annoy the Skyliners Juniors which led to turnovers. Oberhaching executed well off Skyliner Juniors turnovers getting a trey from Muratovic while Jonathan The fridge Zeisberger was a 1 man wrecking crew scoring 7 points while Mueller also scored a lay in. “We played harder in the run, pressed well and stopped them with our zone”, said Jonathan Zeisberger. “They pressed really well and we became too hectic. We had way too many turnovers including myself”, said Jamie Edoka. However the Tropics couldn´t get over the hump. It was offensive rebounds that did them in in crunch time. Leif Zentgraf and Florian Dietrich both got offensive rebounds and put backs that sealed the win. A Mario Matic technical foul led to a Edoka free throw. Muratovic closed out the game with 2 free throws, but it was too late too little for the TSV Oberhaching Tropics. “We wanted it more than they did. We had the right mind set and guys with the Zentgraf brothers who always want to win”, stressed Jamie Edoka. “We had too many mistakes at the end and the 2 put backs cost us the game”, stressed Jonathan Zeisberger. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Leif Zentgraf with 18 points and 10 rebounds while Julius Messer added 17 points and 10 rebounds while the TSV Oberhaching Tropics were led by Frederick Mueller with 27 points while Jonathan Zeisberger had 22 points and 7 dimes. The Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 29% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the TSV Oberhaching Tropics shot 46% from the field and 38% from outside and had 31 rebounds and 12 turnovers,

It Isn´t Malik Parsons Reloaded 2,0 or The Next Justin Cobbs But Simply Rookie Isaiah Swope Making His Own Identity With The Skyliners

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Pic credit: Dmitrij Zibart | ZIBART.DE

Ok so it´s only been 3 games and one never wants to jump the gun so early but is Skyliners rookie Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis) Malik Parsons Reloaded 2,0 or possibly the next Justin Cobbs? When I first saw Swope play, he reminded me right away of Malik Parsons who was fifth best BBL scorer last season at 16,3ppg. He has that lightening speed that Parsons had, but seems to be more of a playmaker and better three point shooter. He knows exactly when to score and when to dish something that also Justin Cobbs mastered in Frankfurt as a rookie quickly and held on through out his professional career. Parson´s didn´t have as much success winning games, but through 3 games, point guard Isaiah Swope has shown his leadership skills leading the team to an early 2-1 record as this is the best start of the Skyliners organization since the 2017-2018 season where they began 5-1 under the guidance of World Cup champion coach Gordon Herbert. Back when Cobbs was a rookie, like Swope is, he helped lead Frankfurt from a 1-6 start into the playoffs and Eurochallenge Top 4. It is still early, but Isaiah Swope has a bit of both players and can simply play ball. But he isn´t really Malik Parson´s reloaded 2,0 or the next Justin Cobbs, but simply the Rookie Isaiah Swope looking to make his own identity as a professional player.

Isaiah Swope who lists Kevin Durant as his GOAT was born on April 22, 2003 in Newburgh, Indiana. He began his basketball career at Castle high school and as a senior averaged 22,2ppg, 3,8rpg and 3,9apg. He received a HS Associated Press Indiana All-State High Honorable Mention. He started his university career at the University of Southern Indiana (NCAA2) averaging 8.2ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 36.9%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 72.7% and 15.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 74.5%. He made a big jump in his second season and needed no adjustment time getting used to the NCAA. His head coach Stan Gouard was a big reason for him being able to make the next step so easily. “Having good veteran teammates my freshman year and when we transitioned from D2 to D1 I had a plan that summer of how I wanted to workout and what I wanted to get better at. Coach G allowed me to be myself and I am thankful for that”, stressed Isaiah Swope. In his first season in the NCAA 2 he scored in double figures 10 times, but when he moved up a level his minutes rose from 20 to 32 and he was a real scoring bucket. He scored in double figures in 25 of 33 games including 27 points against Semo and 26 points against Tenn Tech. Despite the losses, he had a great 28 point game in the win against his future school Indiana State. Was that performance his screen test for Indiana State? “I never knew I would end up going there but I truly believe that everything that happened was for a reason so in the most natural way maybe”, smiled Isaiah Swope. He picked up a All-OVC First Team selection and NABC Division I All-District 18 Second Team selection. He then moved to Indiana State where he continued his consistency as a player and averaged 15.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 73.6%. He played for veteran head coach Josh Schertz who left a massive lasting impression on him. “This season was extremely important because for the past two years of my career with Schertz I have been playing in a Pro system and without him I don’t think I could be here today”, warned Isaiah Swope. He was a walking bucket again scoring in double figures in 31 of 37 games including 30 points against UIC and 27 points against NIU. He was a vital performer in the successful run to the NIT final. Indiana State lost a heartbreaker to Seton Hall 79-77 where he contributed 19 points. Despite the loss, he will never forget the special group of teammates. “I just remember the overall journey and how close we were as a group. There is a reason we are all still close to this day”, commented Isaiah Swope. He picked up a All-MVC Second Team selection and was selected to the MVC All-Newcomer Team.

He then made one more move playing for Saint Louis University. Here he made another jump in his game averaging 17.1ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 75.6%. Not many players can say that they played for the same coach at 2 different schools, but for him being reunited with Josh Schertz was more than just a blessing. “Throughout everything I think it made the most sense to stay with him. In the end I’m glad we went through all the good/bad times together. I think it made us closer in the end. I learned a lot on and off the court and I’m forever grateful that we crossed paths in this journey of life”, explained Isaiah Swope. He scored in double figures in 27 of 33 games including 30 points apiece against Quinnipiac and Loyola MD. Was there one game that stands out most in his thoughts from there? “I don’t have one specific moment but I appreciate the journey and the small moments over time make everything memorable”, said Isaiah Swope. He didn´t only spend time with Josh Schertz at 2 schools, but also with future NBA player Robbie Avila. Did they become like brothers and did he see him as NBA material? “I didn’t know anything about Robbie Avila until I got to Indiana State. On the court he’s one of a kind and with a basketball he can go anywhere he wants to go with it. Many people don’t get the chance to actually know him as a person. He is one of the most real and genuine people you can meet and glad to call him my brother”, stressed Isaiah Swope. He picked up a All-Atlantic 10 Third Team selection who never played 1-1 against his then roommate Kobe Johnson.

The explosive guard who lists Kyrie Irving, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Mike James, Trae Young, and Tremont Waters on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore for guards is playing his rookie season for easyCredit BBL team Skyliners. He saw so much in the NCAA at different schools and doesn´t take anything for granted and feels more than blessed to be able to call the Skyliners home. “I´m truly grateful and appreciative the Frankfurt Skyliners Organization that they have given me this opportunity to showcase my skills”, said Isaiah Swope. He did know a little about Germany before he came mainly because he was teammates with talented German player Kilian Brockhoff at Saint Louis. And was told that Germany is very multi-cultural and has a strong culture and passion for basketball. He couldn´t have come to a more cultural diverse city like Frankfurt and with head coach Klaus Perwas is playing for a person who is world champion. “I was more than aware of the legendary status of Coach Klaus and his basketball resume. I´m very appreciative to be able to be coached by him every day. He wants to win and cares about details”, warned Isaiah Swope. He is only 178cm, but that has never deterred him from reaching his goals. Has he heard any special lines about his height? “I’ve pretty much heard everything imaginable. I only focus on what I can control and throughout my career I’ve been able to prove myself right”, warned Isaiah Swope. Does he have a chip on his shoulder especially concerning his height? “I think it starts off with being aware that basketball is a tall sport. While also understanding the advantages that I can bring to impact winning and our team”, stated Isaiah Swope. A rare thing about him is that he doesn´t compare himself to anybody from the NBA. 99% of the guys I interview always have an answer to that question. If someone had asked me what I thought was his biggest strength, I would right away have said his speed and drive, but for him it is something totally different. “My biggest strength is being able to adjust. Basketball brings so many different situations in a game so being able to adjust on the fly sometimes can be pretty useful”, added Isaiah Swope. Through 3 easyCredit BBL games he is averaging 18,7ppg, 2,0spg, 4,3apg and 2,0spg while shooting an astronomical 58% from outside. He has picked his spots really well. What does he need to do to keep this shooting consistency up? “I just stay in the gym and stay the course throughout my workouts and the overall season”, warned Isaiah Swope. He is an incredible offensive player, but don´t let that overshadow his defensive game, because that is also an important staple in his game. “I can guard and I think my defense gets overlooked at times because of my offensive abilities”, warned Isaiah Swope. He has already taken the BBL by storm and knows exactly how his consistency will continue in the league. “Watching film has been one of the biggest areas that I have been focusing on”, stated Isaiah Swope. If Swope can be remembered as much as Justin Cobbs still has been 11 years since he played Frankfurt is unknown. An interesting side note is that Justin Cobbs is still playing now at age 34 as he is in his 12th professional season and has won 7 titles. However at the moment Isaiah Swope is only focused on taking his rookie season game by game and keep growing while being consistent and showing he can also be a leader

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 1

Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.

Congrats Tore on the 101-71 rout over ASC Goettingen. How good does it feel to be unbeaten this season?

This is something I’m kind of used to it but it’s only the beginning so I can’t rush to get the hopes up and be satisfied.

Talk about the 40 minutes. Was this a game that Bargteheide dominated from the start or was the opponent at times closer in the game than what the result shows?

It’s was a long ride that kind of drained me because of traffic and the rain or what not but we just been playing basketball at a high level. My teammates have been playing good defense and making go plays on offense for each other.

Bargteheide forced ASC Goettingen to 20 turnovers and you as a team won the rebound battle. What was the biggest strength of the team on this night?

Defensively we forced them to bad shots and turned the ball over. So I think defensively holding them to one shot opportunities really helped us

Marcel Hoppe had a great game with 27 points on 7 three´s. Is this guy the teams best shooter?

Marcel is the best shooter in the league hands down. Nice pretty pure shot maker.

You had a 13/3/3/2 game. How content were you with your own game?

Yes not my best game but my teammates was playing so good I didn’t have to do much. But definitely just happy to get the win.

You only scored 13 points in the last 2 games. Has the team shown early on that it has enough weapons so you don´t have to score 25 points a night to win?

Yes I agree the team has shown me that they’re playing at a high level and that might not need me to scored25 points a night but I will continue to get better so when my team and I are playing good the games wouldn’t be close. Just preparing so later in the season trying to find a grove of where I would fit and what the team needs.

The team is a scoring machine and defends solidly. You next battle Freibeuter who are 2-2. What will be key in getting win?

Being strong on the defensive end playing for each other to continue with our momentum.

Thanks Toru for the chat.

Jarrod Uthoff(Pallacanestro Trieste) May Have Had A Longer NBA Career Had Covid Not Happened

Jarrod Uthoff Dolomiti Energia Trentino Trento – Pallacanestro Trieste LBA FrecciaRossa Final Eight 2025 – Semifinali LBA Legabasket Serie A Unipol 2024-25 Torino, 15/02/2025 Foto AlessiaDoniselli // CIAMILLO-CASTORIA

Jarrod Uthoff (206-PF-1993, college: Iowa) is a 32 year old 206cm forward from Iowa playing his 10th professional season and second with Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy-Serie A). He began his career at Jefferson High School and then played at the University of Iowa (NCAA) from 2012-2016.He has G-Leaguee xpereince and played NBA games with Dallas and Memphis. Overseas he has played in countries like Russia and Japan. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against German team Wurzburg.

Thanks Jarrod for talking to germanhoops.com. You’re playing your second season with Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy–Serie A) and this is the first time overseas that you return to the same club for a second year. Has Allianz Pallacanestro Trieste become like a second home for you?

Uh, we came back here because we felt really comfortable. We like the city. It’s a good situation for us. So yeah, absolutely.

This is your second time overseas that you will play internationally in the Basketball Champions League, after playing in the EuroCup in 2018. How excited are you for this competition that you have never played in before?

Jarrod: I’m very excited. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m glad we got in and get to experience different cultures, play in different areas, and play really high-level basketball. So really, really, really excited.

How talented is this season’s Pallacanestro Trieste (Italy–Serie A) team? You and Jeffrey Brooks are massive veterans. What do you believe this team is capable of after reaching the playoffs last season, losing to Brescia?

You know, I think we were talented last year, and we’re talented this year. We have a chance to win a lot of games, and we’re going to win as many games as we can.

Let’s go back to the early part of your career. You played at Iowa from 2013–2016 and reached three NCAA tournaments, losing to Tennessee and Gonzaga. What do you remember most vividly from these two once-in-a-lifetime experiences?

Yeah, all three years. Very cool experience. Most people dream of playing in the college tournament, playing in the NBA, playing in your league or EuroCup or Champions League, and playing at the highest level possible of professional basketball. I consider myself incredibly blessed to be able to play at high levels throughout my career.

You beat North Carolina 60–55, a team that had eight future NBA players. You had 8 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks. Was that one of your most memorable games in the NCAA?

I’ve had a lot of memorable moments. That I definitely remember. It was really cool to be able to go to UNC and win at their place, in a cool environment.

How did head coach Fran McCaffery groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

I don’t know how to answer that. Next question.

Who won a 1-on-1 in practice, you or Aaron White?

I never lost to him.

You played your rookie season with three G-League teams and then reached the NBA thanks to a 10-day contract with the Dallas Mavericks. What do you remember as your wakeup call to being an NBA player? Did you have to do any special duties, and how did the Mavs players view a 10-day contract player?

Yeah, I played my rookie season with two G-League teams, got a call-up to the Dallas Mavericks, and then played for their G-League team when I was called up and signed. You know, you get an opportunity to basically present yourself. You put your best foot forward, and they’re evaluating you—studying your movements, how you interact, how you are on the court, how you move, everything. They just give you an opportunity. You do lots of workouts; you’re the first guy there and the last guy there.

What was it like being teammates with the legend Dirk Nowitzki? You only hear positive stories about him and how he treated everyone equally. Do you remember having a meaningful conversation with him?

It was a very cool experience because I grew up really liking Dirk as a player. It was amazing. Yeah, he gave me a ride to the airport once when we had to leave for a road trip. We were chatting—it was a cool experience.

In your second pro season, you played with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (NBA GLeague), averaging 16.4 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 2.5 apg, 1.1 bpg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 82.0%. You had a very consistent season. Did you ever feel like you were close to an NBA call-up?

Oh, absolutely. I turned down multiple NBA two-way contracts—that was the first year two-ways were a thing. I wanted a standard NBA contract. But yes, I could have been called up at any time. That was basically an opportunity for a call-up.

You went overseas for the first time in the 2018–2019 season playing with Zenit Saint Petersburg (Russia–VTB United League), averaging 6.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 88.9%; and in the EuroCup averaging 7.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 88.9%. What do you remember as your wake-up call to being overseas in Russia, when you realized you were far away from home?

One of the first days in training camp, my head coach, who was Russian, wrote on a chalkboard: “May I call you ‘Oot’?” He was trying to figure out an easy way to say my name, Y–T, so he just called me “Oot”. Yeah. We were in Russia. Yep.

What memories do you have of the tough playoff loss to CSKA Moscow, losing games 2 and 3 by not more than three points combined? How tough was it trying to keep Kyle Hines out of the zone?

Yeah, that was a really cool experience playing them because CSKA was, at that time, one of the best teams in Europe. Very cool experience. They had a lot of good players, and obviously we were pretty good too. So yeah, it was really cool.

In the 2019–2020 season, you went back to the NBA, playing four games with Memphis and three games with Washington, while also playing with the Memphis Hustle (NBA GLeague), averaging 18.6 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.3 spg, 1.0 bpg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.0%. How tough was this season? You dominated in the G-League but only got seven NBA games out of it.

Yeah, I played really well, we had an incredible team. We set a G-League record for winning the first 13 games, I think. I was a huge part of that. Then COVID happened, and that’s why I got only seven games.

You had German teammates Moritz Wagner and Isaac Bonga. Germany is one of the top basketball countries in the world now. How do you remember them as players back then? Does it surprise you that they are now main contributors to Germany’s national team?

The NBA bubble was a unique experience for all of us. We had a month and a half just us, we were all trying to break to the next level of our career or solidify our spot in the theam. It was a unique time. I enjoyed both of them. Both were good players, and I’m really happy to see their success with the German national team and in their careers.

In the 2020–2021 season, you played with the Erie BayHawks (NBA G-League), averaging 14.8 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 2.8 apg, FGP: 62.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 73.7%. That was your last season in the G-League. Why do you feel NBA teams didn’t give you more of a chance and allow you to have a longer NBA career?

Hmm, well, part of this was COVID, and part of it was I had proven I was good enough multiple times. I was good enough. For various reasons, it didn’t come—one being COVID. Then I decided, okay, I’ve got to go to make money ‘because I’m having a baby coming; it’s time to take the next step.

You then went to Japan with three teams. The B1 League has grown in recent years. What kind of experience was Japan, and how do you feel your game grew there?

That wasn’t my calling; otherwise, I wouldn’t be here. I would still be in Japan. It was a unique experience. I enjoyed my year in Kyoto, had a great time there. The other two teams were harder to adjust to, harder situations. I learned a lot about myself. I don’t know if my game grew because it wasn’t quite the level of European basketball or the NBA.

You played a lot of games there, 167 in total. What is your general opinion of the back-to-back games that you experienced for three years, and how quickly did you get used to it?

Tough. It’s a tough schedule—60 games a year, back-to-back every weekend. Very tough to manage.

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

I’ve got no idea.

Please name your five best teammates of all time.

Boy… JJ Barea, best point guard I played with. Shooting guard, JJ Redick. Best three-man, DeMar DeRozan. Best four-man, Dirk Nowitzki. Zion isn’t a five, but Zion Williamson has got to be in there.

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore.

Michael Jordan, LeBron, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell. You can’t leave out Kobe, and I’ll say Shaq because he was the most dominant player other than of Wilt.

Who’s your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

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

I did not. Sometimes sequels ruin the first one, so I stay away from sequels most of the time.

Thanks Jarrod for the chat.

Dad Dave Has Supported Tyson Leitao(Iserlohn Kangaroos) His Whole Life And Has Learned That The Game Is 50% Skill And 50% Mental

Tyson Leitao (199-F-2002, college: Tampa) is a 22 year old 203cm forward playing his rookie season overseas with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). He began his basketball career at Magnet High School. He then played at the University of Tampa from 2021-2025 playing a total of 106 games. In his last 2 seasons he averaged 12.9ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 67.1% and 13.9ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 76.0%. he spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tyson for talking to germanhoops.com. Not many guys form Tampa (NCAA2) have gone pro. How blessed do you feel living the dream in Germany?

Extremely blessed! Not many people know my story, but I was also a walk-on my first year at Tampa. I wasn’t highly recruited out of high school and got lucky enough to walk on. After starting every game that year I was able to earn a scholarship. Everything that happened there I had to work for and to be in this position to live out a dream like this is surreal.

Have you ever heard of Jeremy Black? He played at Tampa form 20024-2008 and had a great career in Germany?

I have not heard of him, but I’ll definitely do some research. There are a lot of Tampa greats that went on to have great careers overseas and I’m hoping to become one of them.

Your playing your rookie season with the Iserlohn Kangaroos (Germany-ProB). What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It’s been a fun learning experience. Adjusting to European basketball isn’t easy but my teammates and coaches have been a great deal of help. I think the biggest adjustment for me is learning how to think about the game of basketball in a different setting and style. Something that I have enjoyed most is how much time I can spend focusing on basketball, like watching film, getting extra reps, or getting recovery.

What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

It was definitely the time difference. I’m a sports guy so I watch a lot of sports and having to adjust to watching games at different or later times has been hard.

Iserlohn lost a tough 86-84 game to Rostock. You had a great first game of 20/10. You needed no adjustment period. How would you compare the pro B to the NCAA 2 in terms of competitive level?

I think the level of competition is pretty similar. It’s a little more physical and there are a lot of different schemes and adjustments in Pro B but the competition is right there.

You had a great career at Tampa Bay (NCAA2). What are your most important goals for your rookie season with your personal game?

Personally I want to bring as much intensity and energy as I can. Energy is transferable and if I can bring energy to help the team win I will do it to the best of my ability.

What has it been like playing for ex guard Toni Prostran? What have you enjoyed most about his basketball philosophy?

It’s been great Toni is a very likeable guy and when it comes to basketball you can tell he is very well versed in all aspects. He understands the player perspective because of his long career, but he knows what it takes to win. I have enjoyed his level of intensity he brings to every game, practice, or even film session.

What has it been like battling Malik Diagne on a daily basis? How do you guys compliment each other best?

Malik is a great guy on and off the court. He always has great energy and helps the team in a lot of ways. I think the best way we compliment each other is just knowing the space on the floor, when to cut or when to stay spaced he’s a smart player so it always works.

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

A current NBA player I could compare to and one of my favorites to watch right now is Alperen Sengun. I watched a lot of the eurobaseket recently and he’s so talented from all aspects of the court. He can score around the rim, rebound at a high level, and even space the floor and shoot.

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

I think I can bring a lot of defensive intensity to the team.

You also take the three pointer and show that you’re a modern day big man. How would you describe the development of your three pointer in your rookie season?

I would say I work on it a good amount. In today’s basketball you can make a lot of money by just being able to space the floor and make open shots.

Talk about your defensive skills. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

Currently I think I can use my athleticism to my advantage on defense and communicate as much as possible. It’s always been a goal of mine to be the loudest on the court. I want to become a defender that can guard all positions no matter the size or skill.

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

Currently just working inside the paint and becoming as consistent as I can so I can go inside and out on the court.

How valuable has your dad Dave been for your basketball development? He coached many years at Depaul. How did he help you most with your development?

My dad has been a huge part of my basketball development. For as long as I can remember I have been in a gym with my dad. We kind of have 2 relationships: him as a coach and him as a dad. He’s taught me everything I know and paved a way for me to be successful. He helped me understand a lot about the game of basketball and being able to be one of the smartest players on the court. He’s also a huge part in helping with the mental side of basketball and even tells me basketball is 50% skill and 50% mental.

You played at the University of Tampa (NCAA2) from 2021-2025 and made big jumps in your game in your last 3 years averaging 11.0ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 64.6%, 12.9ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 67.1% and 13.9ppg, 10.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 76.0%. How did your game grow in those years?

I think the most crucial way my game grew was consistency and being mentally more stable.

You had so many great games and usually in losing causes. What was your fondest moment on the court and Tampa?

I think that I couldn’t choose just one moment. I would say anytime that I could share the court with my teammates was a fond moment.

How did head coach Linc Darner groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He was great and we played really fast paced so that was a great segway to how its been transitioning to my pro career.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jaxon Toney?

Definitely ME. Lol

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

There’s been a few either Amen and Ausar Thompson or Anthony Edwards

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

No order: Dj Steward, Max Jones, Dalen Davis, Bryan Williams, and Kaden Froebe

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, MJ, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry

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 did not see it so I can’t comment.

Thanks Tyson for the chat.

Mario Matic Believes The Heightened Self Confidence Of Dennis Schroeder Puts Him Over The Top As He Can Miss 5 Shots In A Row And Then Hit The 6th To Decide The Game

pic credit: FIBA

Mario Matic is an ex professional player that played in the German BBL with Nordlingen and currently is in his 10th season as a head coach with TSV Oberhaching Tropics He began his coaching career with Nordlingen where he was for 6 years. As a player he played 11 years in Germany for teams like Karlsruhe, Crailsheim, Kaiserslautern, Bayreuth, Nordlingen and BG Leitershofe. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the success of German basketball.

Thanks Mario for talking to germanhoops.com Germany is Euro Champion 2025. What kind of a feeling does this give you involved with German basketball?

I was really happy for all the people who were involved. I was especially really happy for Alan Ibrahimagic who stayed grounded and worked so well in guiding the team. This title will give German basketball another boost. More kids will want to play.

Is it crazy to have predicted a Gold medal before the tournament started? If you had to guess how many German basketball fans out of 10 would have predicted the Gold before the tournament how many would it have been under your estimation?

I would say that 3 out of 10 German fans would have predicted a Gold medal. I feel like Serbia was the top favorite, but Germany was close behind with all the NBA and Euroleague players. Germany had a great roster.

It was the 2 best teams in the tournament with Germany and Turkey at 8-0. Was this the top final compared to the 1993 final vs Russia and 2023 final vs Serbia?

You can´t compare the 1993 win. That was a total surprise and a huge sensation. I was 13 and that title brought me to basketball. Germany wasn´t a favorite like Germany is now. Germany wasn´t known on the basketball map in 1993, but a respected and known basketball nation now.

How did you experience the final. The game was a real dog fight with Turkey leading by as much as 11 points and being very strong. What got Germany the Gold medal after 40 minutes.

It was a high level final with many shots made. I did have a feeling a few times when Turkey got their lead up to 5-6 points that if they had reached +10 that then the game could have had a different outcome. But Germany always had an answer and struck back. Turkey had a shorter rotation and the German role players were key always giving important impulses in key moments.

There was a time in the 80s and 90s where you said in German football and after 90 minutes Germany always wins. I feel like there is this mentality now in German basketball. I was never fearing a los in the fourth quarter even when Turkey was up by 6 points.

You do get that feeling now. You kind of figured that Schroeder would come up big in crunch time. His unbelievable self confidence is a huge factor for his success.

What was key down the stretch that Germany could win the game. How much of a factor was the deep bench of Germany?

Yes the bench was the difference. So many guys stepped up in key moments. Johannes Thiemann had big moments in the final

How valuable was Franz Wagner for this tournament. How is he a better player now than in 2023 despite 2 years of more experience?

I feel like he was already really good 2 years ago. He wasn´t that strong in the final, but overall, he had a strong tournament. If he can get a stable shot, then he won´t be stooped. He has more experience and got stronger. His drive is already unstoppable.

Isaac Bonga continues to grow as a player since coming back from the NBA? Shouldn´t a tournament like this and especially how his game has developed the last 3 years give him another NBA opportunity?

After the way he played, he should have NBA offers. He developed really well at Partizan last season. His shot has become so much better.

You either like or dislike Dennis Schroeder, but he came up big in the second half after being closed down well in the first half. How do explain his unbelievable ability to be able to turn around the lever and play like a winner when his team needs it most?

His biggest strength is his massive self-confidence. He can miss 5 shots, but then hit that 6th shot which can decide a game. He has that special touch and ability to take responsibility at the biggest moments of a game.

I have never understood that despite showing the last years what an incredible leader he is for Germany, he gets overlooked by NBA teams and has been a journeyman? Do NBA bosses have the wrong perception of him?

I honestly don´t follow the NBA so much. There is simply a lot of competition at the guard position in the NBA. You have more combo type guards and scoring guards which seem to be more desired. Schroeder is more the type of player that leads a team.

Dirk Nowitzki has been the GOAT of German basketball for more than 15 years. With the World and Euro won, Is Dennis Schroeder at Nowitzki´s level in terms of being in the same category as him?

With all due respect to Schroder, he isn´t at the same level as Dirk Nowitzki. Schroeder had great teammates while Nowitzki didn´t have the same type of support 20 years ago.

One of the big winners is your colleague Alan Ibrahimagic went from assistant coach to Euro head coach winner. How valuable was his input? What do you believe could he still give a team that already had all the pieces of being a winning team?

He gave freedom to the team, but also had clear instructions. He always found the right words. It wasn´t really complex what he said, but the team executed. He was really responsible for the good atmosphere and chemistry.

There were some nice plays in the final like Isaac Bonga´s dunk or Franz Wagner´s mega block. What was your favorite play of the final?

I think the three pointer by Daniel Theis was the most important shot. Without that shot, you don´t win.

Can one compare Germany´s success now with Spain from 2006-2011 where it won a World Cup and 2 Euro championships. Does Germany have a dynasty?

Yes you can and their time isn´t over yet. I see a very rosy future for German basketball.

This dynasty should go on. The future still looks good with a nucleus of the Wagner brothers, Tristan Da Silva, Andi Obst, Isaac Bonga and Isaiah Hartenstein plus the new wave of guys like Ivan Kharchenkov, Hannes Steinbach, Johan Grunloh, Christian Anderson and others. Does Germany have the mentality to keep it going with the new wave of players that you have seen the last years?

I think the success can keep going. But when some guys retire in next years, you will have to put the expectations down a bit. One has to remember where the state of German basketball was 10 years ago. It wasn´t good. I´m sure the young guys coming up will continue to develop and lead Germany to success. I see a very good future.

You coach young men and are right there seeing the work and effort. Often now adays the talk is young players aren´t as hungry as back in the day. In other words players today aren´t challenged enough with too many outside influences. What makes young German players different than young players from other countries in this generation?

I think that the work ethic with German players is good. The success has to do with the Infrastructure. It is very good. You can´t compare it to the time when I was a kid. The clubs all work so well in having their youth kids develop the right way. Players get double license and get minutes. I think that the success now shows that all the hard work the last years has been rewarded.

Thanks Mario for the chat.