NCAA

Ivan Kharchenkov Is Still A Raw Diamond And Knows His Time Will Come At Arizona To Help Make The NBA A Reality

pic credit: ArizonaMBB

If one looks at the rising basketball career of German Ivan Kharchenkov (201-F-2006) over the last few years, then one comes to the conclusion that he really has achieved a lot. He won 2 Gold medals at European youth championships, 2 pro titles in the easyCredit BBL with top sports brand FC Bayern Munich and an NBBL (U-19) title all before his 19th birthday. He could of remained with FC Bayern Munich and continued to fight for minutes and gain extra vital experience, but instead he went with the trend and played in the NCAA this past season with Arizona (NCAA). It was the logical route as so many Euro players were doing it as well as fellow German colleagues like Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach who are projected NBA first round pics in June 2026. He had the opportunity to play with a top basketball school, get an education and get paid millions. He helped win the Big 12 title and they came up a bit short losing in the NCAA final 4 against Michigan. All in all he made the right decision as his team had success and he was able to develop further with his Swiss army knife game. “I had no real expectations going to Arizona. Everything was new for me. I was living on a new continent and the game was different. I was thrown into cold water. My goal before the season was to get better each day and get minutes. I have to say that I was able to fullfill my expectations”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. As a guy who lives for the game and is always a competitor, he embraced the American lifestyle as it was like night and day compared to what he experienced in Germany in the easyCredit BBL. “What I appreciated right away about the lifestyle there was how much people are involved with the game and how emotional everyone is. It doesn´t matter who you talk to there, all have knowledge of the game. If your having a down period, the people always have energy and try to help you. No one is shy to showcase their emotions. In Munich it is more an event thing with some clapping. In Arizona it´s a big thing”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov.

Pic credit: ArizonaMBB

I reach Ivan Kharchenkov in early May for our 12th interview since the 2021-2022 season as he had returned back to Germany and was spending time with his family in Landsberg, Bavaria. In German basketball leagues, players arrive usually in mid August to prepare for the season starting in October, but in Arizona, Ivan was already there in July 2025 to start to prepare for the season starting in November. All Americans that come overseas for the first time always have a wake up call to living in Europe, but how was it for him coming from Germany to USA? “My wake up call was all the fast food that is present. It seems like it is around every corner. In Munich it is a lot easier to find healthy food. The eating standard is a lot higher in Europe”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. The team practiced for months before the season started and he was able to recognize early the differences between how NCAA teams practice in comparison to his ex team FC Bayern Munich. “The practices were a lot more physical, longer and more intensive than with Munich. We practiced between games while with Munich we didn´t. The practice standards were higher with Arizona, but one can´t forget that you have like 85 games in Europe and only 40 in the NCAA”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. The team began hot winning 21 games in a row while the young German needed time to find his game. Did the team feel pressure with every new win in that winning streak? “It took time to get used to the new rules. It was strange having 2 20 minute halves, not taking transition fouls and players being able to call timeouts. I don’t think that pressure grew. We always went game by game. We had some shaky wins in that streak. We were still finding each other. We were lucky that we were good enough to still win games even when we didn´t play our best. That gave us the opportunity to learn from our mistakes”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov.

Winning streaks never last forever as Arizona suffered their first loss of the season against Kansas. Then they were shocked right away in the next game losing again against Texas Tech. Arizona then wouldn´t lose again until April in the Final 4 against Michigan. The team definitely took the Texas Tech loss to heart and learned from it. “We had some guys out including Koa Peat. We were shocked and struggled. It was the perfect time to face adversary. Other guys had to step up and did. That showed us just how versatile we could be. That helped us in the long run and later beating Houston. We had a short rotation and were successful”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. He battled against German national team teammate Christian Anderson of Texas Tech finishing with a 13/4/3/2 game while Anderson had a 19/6/8 game. Anderson´s season was so good that his route to the NBA will follow now. “Anderson became a lot more consistent. He had a bigger role and made less mistakes. He got bigger physically and learned to read the game better as well”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. After beating Houston for the Big 12 title, Arizona then had a great run at March madness beating LIU Brooklyn, Utah State, Arkansas and Purdue until losing to Michigan. “It was just one of those days where we didn´t play our best game. They hit three´s early and we got down fast and it was tough climbing back up the mountain. We lost to the eventual champion. It can happen. They shot only 2/18 in the final and still won. Life goes on”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. He had amazing teammates like Koa Peat who is a projected NBA first round pick in June. “He is a very physical player and built like a football player. He has a real nice touch around the rim. He really developed well during the season learning to expose the defense really well”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov. Two other incredible teammates that he had were Brayden Burries and potential 2026 NBA draft pick Jaden Bradley who gave Arizona one of the best guard duo´s in the country. “Bradley was our veteran. He was the right hand of the coach. He had a lot of experience and led us the whole season and was great closing games. Burries didn´t start the season well, but never hung his head. He found his groove and was a great teammate and always did all he could to help the team win. He was our best player”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov.

Pic Credit:ArizonaMBB

The physical player who remembered Swede and current Stanford (NCAA) guard Julius Price as his toughest opponent back in 2022 had a solid freshman season in the NCAA averaging 10/4/2/1. Years ago he was the classic 3 and D player, but did his game grow into a Swiss army knife? “I was content with my season. I didn´t know my role at the start, but then it became clear. My role was to be the heart of the team, bring energy and be a vocal leader. Never be shy and defend the other team´s best player. I feel like I was always a Swiss army knife. I can do a lot of things and always give my team what it needs to win. I let the game come to me and didn´t force anything. I just try to play correct basketball”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. His three pointer continues to be a work in progress. However he made big strides at Arizona as he finished at 32% from downtown in the season. “My role wasn´t so big for me to get many shots. I had the best season in my career with my shooting %. I feel a lot more sure with my shot. Now I have a long summer where I can continue to work on my shot and let it develop further”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov. His excellent defense was lauded from the start by the Arizona experts and fans. He had to try to lock down the other team´s best players every night.” My defense grew having to defend top talents. I tried my best slowing down top players Aj Dybantsa of BYU and Darryn Peterson of Kansas. I think that I did a good job keeping them to 20 points on 25 shots. I was able to read the game well on the run”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. He was the first Arizona freshman to record 5 steals against a top 25 team Alabama. “That is a cool achievemen. In USA there are stats for all. But to be honest, I didn´t go into the game to record that record”, smiled Ivan Kharchenkov. He was fortunate to play for a coach in legend Tommy Lloyd who let him sparkle with his versatile play and also knows that the Wild Cats haven´t seen the best of him yet. “I learned from coach Tommy to let the game come to me and that my time will come”, warned Ivan Kharchekov.

The big guard with the killer instinct has announced that he will return for a second season to Arizona. His goal is to be drafted by the NBA. He wasn´t a frequent visitor on 2026 NBA Mock drafts as he had too many offensive options on the team. Next season his role will grow the same it did for Christian Anderson. But there are also other advantages for returning back to Tucson for a sophomore campaign. “I can continue to work on my game. I´m still a raw diamond. Plus I know how everything works now. It is also good to play for coach Tommy again. I know how he ticks”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. Arizona will lose some guys, but should be competitive once again as they have kept Motiejus Krivas and have 3 very interesting guys coming in with ex Washington (NCAA) guard JJ Mandaquit, ex North Carolina (NCAA) guard Derek Dixon and highly touted Georgia high school player Caleb Holt. Bryce James the son of Lebron James also will play after being a red shirt last season. “The goal is always to win the NCAA title. The question is will it be realistic. We still need 2 big men”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. It was recently reported that raw Dutch center Endurance Aiyamenkhue of German team Orange Academy is one of those 2 centers that will suit up for Arizona next season. He won´t play for the German national team this summer as he remained in Germany in May and had his first camp in mid May with his half brother Nikita and dad. “I like to work with kids and give back to the community. This will be my first camp ever. I have heard that I could do this in the future as well in Tucson”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. He will head back to Arizona in June and then his focus will be on his game and Arizona. He will have a lot of time to remember big moments in the 2025-26 season on and off the court. “My favorite moment on the court last season was when Jaden Bradley hit a buzzer beater over Iowa State. I will never forget how we all jumped on him on the court. My coolest experience off the court was just how much a family we are. In Europe basketball is strictly business. In Arizona we spent so much time together as a team. We had incredible chemistry on and off the court. If I needed something, I could always go to the coach. I would never do that in Europe. I felt more comfortable in USA”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov.

Benjamin Burnham Will Face New Challenge In The German BBL And Will Always Have A Special Flagg & Knueppel Story To Tell

A cool aspect about American players overseas is hearing about who they battled in the NCAA when they were still grinding to get better and get prepared for the next step overseas. Obviously the higher a player competes in a conference, the better competition a player will get and have those special nightly battles against future NBA players. It wasn’t any different for American Benjamin Burnham (202-F-2002, college: Virginia Tech) who recently completed his rookie season overseas in Germany where he took the second division Pro A by storm. The American already played against good schools and players in the CAA, but it grew a notch more in his senior year where he suited up for the Virginia Tech Hokies in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He played against competitive schools like Michigan, Stanford, Georgia Tech and Wake Forest just to name a few. Especially in the state of North Carolina, he played against the top with North Carolina, North Carolina State and Duke. He held his own against all schools, but unfortunately lost against all those schools. He will definitely never forget battling against Duke where he played against 2 of the top NBA rookies from the 2025-2026 season with Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel. Flagg is a generational player and Knueppel possibly the next best three point shooter. Flagg had a solid 24/3/6/4 game while Knueppel added 13 points on 2/7 shooting form the parking lot. Burnham had no difficulty holding his own as he added 9 points in 17 minutes coming off the bench. Burnham and Virginia Tech didn’t escape with the win, but he has a story for a lifetime. ‘I was matched up against Cooper Flagg, all I remember was him hitting a mid range in my face, and I remember hitting a step 3 on Kon Knueppel at the end of shot clock. But yes, we lost by 23’, said Benjamin Burnham.

The American who lists Cooper Flagg and Aaron Estrada as his toughest covers so far in his career was born on April 3, 2002 in Nashville, Tennessee and grew up in South Carolina. He comes from a family that was closely affiliated to sports as his grand father and uncle both played at South Carolina and his dad played at Virginia Wesleyen and became the school’s all-time points leader there. He played high school ball with Carmel Christian Academy and led his team to a second place finish at the state championship and was a two time all state selection. After high school, he attended the College of Charleston (NCAA) where he played 3 seasons and played a total of 102 games. He improved his scoring title each season averaging 7.7ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 65.1%, 8.8ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 44.6%, FT: 72.0%, and 11.9ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 69.5%. He reached the NCAA tournament twice and helped win the CAA title in 2023 and 2024. ‘The second title was so memorable because I was more of a leader on that team and I wanted to prove that I could help lead a team to a championship. But the difference in the game was Reyne Smith hitting some crazy 3s in overtime’, stated Benjamin Burnham. As a freshman he played against North Carolina (NCAA) losing 94-83, but held his own with 17 points against future NBA guys. ‘That game was very memorable because it was one of my first college games and I scored the ball well against those guys and I realized I belonged’, remembered Benjamin Burnham. In his last season there he scored in double figures in 22 of 35 games including netting 19 points against Alabama in a March Madness loss as well as 23 points in a win over URI and 20 points in a victory over William. He was really fortunate to have had a special coach in Pat Kelsey that helped him get his foot in the door in the NCAA. ‘Coach was very valuable, because he taught me so much about the game and how to go about your business’, stated Benjamin Burnham. He finished his NCAA career at Virginia Tech University (NCAA) where he averaged 7.5ppg, 3.9rpg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 70.4%. He had some solid games that season against Stanford scoring 18 points and scoring 17 points against Navy. However his most spectacular moment at Virginia Tech and possibly the NCAA was his steal and dunk in the last seconds securing the win over North Carolina State 79-76. ‘I watched it a couple times on Instagram. I just remember reading the inbounder’s eyes on the steal then just dunking it home for the exclamation mark’, smiled Benjamin Burnham. All in all this season was instrumental for his skills development, but also for his mentality ‘ Head coach Mike Young helped me because he gave me motivation to prove that I’m better at basketball than what he thought. So the push he gave me was a chip on my shoulder and a little more fuel’, stressed Benjamin Burnham who remembers dunking on teammate Toibu Lawal once and him pushing him to be better.

The South Carolina native who lists Buzz Anthony, Bryce Butler, Dylan Ritter, Connor Serven, and John Meeks as his best 5 teammates of all-time made the trek overseas in late summer 2025 to play for Pro A team Artland Dragons. He had an incredible personal stat season and helped the team make the playoffs. ‘I had a good season statistically and we had good team success as well, we didn’t finish the season how we wanted but I learned a lot and we set our goal to make the playoffs before the season and we accomplished it. It was a blessing playing for a club with that much history and culture’, said Benjamin Burnham. For Americans it isn’t always easy making the adjustment overseas and he also had a wake up call where he knew that he was far away from home. ‘The first time I went to the grocery store and I had no clue what was going on in there and couldn’t ask for help. That is when I realized I was far from home and would have to learn a few things’, added Benjamin Burnham. The Artland Dragons had a good start winning 3 of 4 games, but always suffered lapses where they couldn’t establish more consistency. In the winter they had a 4 game losing streak, but cleaned that up with a 7 game winning streak in March. Did they peak then? ‘We were up and down all year, but we were really rolling during that 7 game win streak. I don’t want to say we peaked there because we really played 3 great games in the playoffs but couldn’t find a way to win. So from a win streak perspective we were really hot in March’, commented Benjamin Burnham. The team then lost two nail bitters to Wolmirstedt and Leverkusen and got swept in the playoffs in 3 close games to Bremerhaven. Ending the season like that must of left a bitter taste in his mouth and have what if questions swirling in his mind? ‘I definitely had a bitter taste ending the year like that, but like I said our goal was to make the playoffs and the club wasn’t ready to move up yet, so all that considered we had a successful season with many personal and team lessons learned’, commented Benjamin Burnham. The Bremerhaven series was so close as Bremerhaven only scored 11 more points in the whole 3 game series. ‘The difference in a close series like that is the discipline with the little things, a missed box out here and a 50/50 ball there. The little things add up and when it’s a one possession game the team that was better at those things usually wins it, and that wasn’t us that series’, remembered Benjamin Burnham. He saved his best for last netting 46 points as he ranks that as his best personal game so far in his career.

The forward that names Lebron James, Steph Curry, Michael Jordan, and Kevin Durant on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore had very special teammates as a rookie. One was so special with Buzz Anthony that he already has him as one of his 5 best teammates ever. Anthony is like a mini John Stockton who always seeks his teammates for buckets. The special hook ups between Burnham and Anthony were long and successful all season long. ‘The first thing that comes to mind is the first game of the season where he had a wide open fast break layup, but he saw me trailing and threw it off the backboard and I dunked it. That was when I realized we would have a fun year. My favorite thing he did on the court though was when I haven’t had a touch in a while and he would ask me what play I want to run to get me a touch, and when I would score it I just have to shoutout out my point guard Buzz’, said Benjamin Burnham. He and walking bucket Amir Hinton carried the team the whole season. How did they compliment each other best? ‘I think we complimented each other by not complimenting each other. We played so differently that teams couldn’t figure out how to guard us because of that. We weren’t just always in the pick and roll together where teams could figure out a coverage that could stop us’, expressed Benjamin Burnham. He was also able to observe many young German players make the next step and one of those was Fynn Lastring who took a NIL deal for next season. ‘Fynn is a good kid and a good basketball player. We had a solid relationship and he is a great get for New Mexico’, stated Benjamin Burnham. On the court he had an incredible season averaging 20/9/2 stats. He picked up Eurobasket player of the year, forward of the year, first team and imports team. What did this season mean to him? ‘This season meant a lot to me because I knew what I was capable of as an individual and I got to prove it this year and it was also important because of what I learned on and off the court’, stressed Benjamin Burnham. He had a solid NCAA career, but never averaged more than 11/4 in the NCAA. It isn’t typical for a player to explode like that and heighten his game to new levels like that, but it can be done. In college I always had a role in doing what the team needed and affecting the game in different ways, but I’ve always been an efficient scorer so when Coach Hendrik Gruehn trusted me to be one of the main offensive options I was ready’, said Benjamin Burnham. He scored in double figures in 34 of 36 games and scored 20 points or more 19 times. Besides his 46 point explosion he also had 32 points against Bremerhaven and 31 points a piece against Giessen and Bayreuth. He continues to improve step by step wince his first season in Charleston. ‘The steps were taken ever since I got to my first college, just learning what it takes to be a pro and always putting the work in so when it was my time, I was ready’, warned Benjamin Burnham.

The explosive scorer who rates his Mom as his GOAT and feels that they should of left the classic Coming To America movie alone with Eddie Murphy is a player that compares his game to Pascal Siakam mixed in with Kyle Korver. He can really do it all on the court, but is versatility really his biggest asset? ‘I think my biggest strength is my shooting, athleticism and playing hard. So if that is what you mean by versatility, then yes’, stressed Benjamin Burnham. He eclipsed 40% twice in the NCAA and shot 44% from outside in the German Pro A. He continued to work hard as a rookie working on a quicker release on catch and shoot and also working on shooting 3s off the dribble. He also stepped up his defensive game as a rookie adding 2 things that helped him be successful. ‘I just always gave effort and knew the tendencies of certain players so they were easier to guard’, remembered Benjamin Burnham. He also knows n what areas of his game he will be working on most so he will be even better prepared for season 2? ‘My on ball defense so I can be better when I switch onto shiftier guards and always working on my shooting and ballhandling’, added Benjamin Burnham. His stellar play in the Pro A was observed by many easyCredit BBL teams and according to online sources will get a new challenge in 2026-2027 and ball for Fiba Europe Cup winner Niners Chemnitz. It will be interesting to see if he can make the next step in the BBL. One guy who totally believes in his game is Joe Asberry who worked in the Artland Dragons organization last season and saw his ability flourish daily. He sees his talent as getting to the absolute top level. ‘Burnham’s game is NBA ready. His motor is second to none. He is fearless. Every time I saw him after my workout, I said, ‘please dunk on someone for me. I love dunks and I love your dunks’. He replied saying ‘I love dunks too. I got you’. I have a quick story. We went to a school in Vechta. We had a shoot out vs the kids. It was an event for my drug prevention program. I hit a few NBA range three’s from the Logo and of course I’m barking after every make. Great young talents Dominik Dolic and Ivan Volf also shot very well. Burnham was on fire. The kids loved them and I appreciate them so much. Burnham is humble and a good dude. His future in Europe is very bright’; warned NIL agent Joe Asberry

Igor Perovic Is Simply Special As Gian Aydinoglu Has Never Ever Had Anything Bad To Say About Him In 100,000 Situations

Pic credit: Fabian Heyn

Gian Aydinoglu (189-PG-2003) is a 23 year old 189cm guard that is playing his first season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (ProA) and helped lead them into the Pro A final. He began his career in the Alba Berlin organization and helped them win the NBBL title in 2022. He then played 3 years with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig playing a total of 35 easyCredit BBL games and 6 Fiba Europe Cup games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after beating Giessen in the semi-finals.

Thanks Gian for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 89-85 win in game 4 against Giessen and reaching the Pro A final. How good did it feel when the buzzer sounded?

It was an unspeakable feeling. We wrote club history making the BBL cup and now wrote history again reaching the Pro A final. You can see how special this team has been this season.

You have witnessed the incredible development of the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim the last 2 years. If someone had told you in August 2025 that the team would reach the Pro A final what would you have said?

I would have been very surprised to hear that. I would not have thought it would be possible. After our slow start at 1-5, I would of not thought it would have been any more realistic.

Does this big success still have a different taste simply because the team will remain in the Pro A?

Yes a bit. It is a shame that we won´t play in the easyCredit BBL. But we all feel that just making the Pro A final is a huge success. I personally feel reaching the final is just as worthwhile.

What was the main focus of the team coming to Giessen? How big was the self confidence having already won there in game 2?

We had a lot of self-confidence coming into game 4. Game 2 was the game changer. We lost game 1 and it didn´t look like we had a chance. Props go to coach Igor and the team that we were able to come back and win 3 games in a row. We were able to make adjustments well. We were down 1-0 in both series and came back each time and won 3 games. That is a huge achievement. But for this organization, it is nothing new. It has been doing it for years. Beating big teams and having success.

Giessen began well leading 7-2. Kirchheim didn´t seem shocked. Does that calmness of Igor Perovic carry over to the team?

Yes he does do that. But props also to the team who have shown other times that it is capable to come back even when we were down worse. A good example was in Koblenz. We were down 20 points at the break and fought back and won in overtime. I think tough situations like in Koblenz and other times helped give us experience so we could do it again in these playoffs. We are able to stay calm when facing adversary and have the confidence to come back.

Kirchheim then responded with a 11-0 run. Kirchheim then hit three pointers well. What was key in that 11-0 run for the turnaround? Did somebody on the court or bench have the right words after the slow start?

We did a good job sticking together as a team. Giessen tried to surprise us by going to zone, but we stayed calm and hit our three´s. We did a good job adjusting.

Kirchheim who were somewhat undermined on the glass outrebounded Giessen from the start. It really felt like Kirchheim wanted it more than Giessen from that stand point until the end?

I think the same. We just have players that are real work horses. Every player was motivated from head to feet to reach the Pro A final. Coach Igor has stressed all season long that we have to do the little things to be successful like getting the 50/50 balls, offensive rebounds and loose balls. We really focused on this all season long and were able to execute it.

Nicholas Bretzel made big shots, rebounds and big plays all game long. Where would the team be without him?

Nico is so important for our success, but I could say the same for every other teammate of mine. A better question would be where would our team be without just one player? Every player gives vital impulses for our success. It is the collective that helps us be successful.

Lucas Mayer had that special fire in his eyes right from the get go. Did you sense he had extra motivation to beat his old team?

Yes I also saw that. But that is normal for any player who comes back home to play in front of family and friends. One really saw the focus of Lucas in game 3 where he scored 25 points. It is really like that for every player.

How crazy is it scoring 48 points as a team at the break and Philipp Russell having 0 points?

That stat just shows how key our collective is. When he isn´t scoring, we always have other guys step up. Philipp can get hot at any time. He showed it in the second half as he finished with 16 points. We know what we will get from him and the rest at any time.

Kirchheim continued to manage the lead well in the third quarter. It seemed like Tylan Pope carried the team. Did he recognize early that he had to step up with Russell not on his game?

I think that he saw that early on that he had to step up. We all know exactly what he can do on the court. He has a lot of talent and can carry us with his energy and physicality.

Kirchheim was up 20 points in the fourth quarter and Giessen made a furious comeback and made it close. Did Kirchheim become to sure of the win?

I don´t think that we did. We just know how quickly a game can change. They hit some shots and it was a momentum changer. The Giessen fans then also felt like there was still a chance to win and the atmosphere rose even more in the gym. The fans became more involved.

Kirchheim kept their composure in crunch-time. What else was key for getting the win at the end?

Key was that we made big plays and they didn´t. We didn´t get nervous. It was a total team effort.

When you look back at the series against Giessen, what was the difference?

I think that coach Igor was the difference. He is such a great coach. He made the needed tactical changes. Twice in a row after losing game 1 against Goettingen and Giessen, we came back to win 3 games in a row. He made the needed adjustments. I think that we had an advantage in game 4, because we could play more free and had less pressure than Giessen.

Giessen fans complained on social media after the game that some of the Kirchheim Americans had bad unsportsmanlike conduct after the buzzer sounded. How tough is it playing in the Ost halle? Can you understand that your teammates were dealing with high emotions after a win like that?

Emotions are part of the game and as long as everything stays within the boundries, then it is ok. I think one can´t forget that our Americans are all rookies and don´t understand our fan culture yet. I have to be honest that the Giessen fans belong to the best in the league. They always have a great atmosphere. They provoked us a bit, but that is part of the game. I told our guys to forget the fans and get into the locker room. It is nothing personal. We all know how tough it is to win there.

Is Kirchheim satisfied now or does it have the fire to win the Pro A title?

We are in no way satisfied! We want to win it all.

How special of a coach is Igor Perovic? Doesn´t he finally deserve a easyCredit BBL job offer?

I have worked with Igor now for 1,5 years together. I have a good and special relationship with him. He is like a mentor to me and really knows how to deal with players in a positive way. What he has achieved season by season with a low budget is incredible. I wish that he can make the next step as a coach. He has everything that a coach needs to be successful. Out of 100,000 situations with him, I have never had nothing bad to say about him. He integrated me into the team right away when I came from Braunschweig only getting a few minutes. I won´t forget that.

How was the ride home? Was their partying on the bus?

It was a very good atmosphere on the ride home.

How will Kirchheim beat Phoenix Hagen?

It is simple. We have to score more points than them. I hope that it will be tight games. They are a super team, but I´m sure that they won´t make the mistake and underestimate us.

Thanks Gian for the chat,

My Diary As A Bit Of Old As Usual With Alba Berlin And Something New And Refreshing With Bonn/Koln Sparkled At The 2026 NBBL/JBBL Top 4

When you hear the name Alba Berlin, the first thing that probably comes to mind is winning. The club is the New York Yankees, the Boston Celtics or the Montreal Canadians of German basketball. What the organization has achieved in the last 30 years has simply been amazing in terms of being able to rack up titles. They have won a total of 23 club titles with 11 league championships, 11 cup wins and one international title in 1995 with the Korac cup. But not only on the professional level are they a rock, but also at the youth level they have been able to set a special standard of excellence always being able to bring in new talents and have success. They have won 6 NBBL (U-19) titles and 4 JBBL (U-16) titles since the NBBL/JBBL league was established in 2006. At the current NBBL/JBBL Top 4, Alba Berlin was able to find their way back to the winners circle as they were able to win their 6th NBBL title. The Top 4 saw a bit of old with Alba Berlin, but also saw something new and refreshing in 2026. In the JBBL, it wasn´t a Ulm or Alba Berlin as the winner but Team Baskets Bonn/Koln RAG. They had only once reached the top 4 and that was back in 2014. The team led by up and coming young coach Tom Becker had a great season where they nearly averaged 100 points per game and had so many scoring weapons that Oldenburg and Ulm who lost to them couldn´t control. They had an incredible team chemistry and just had that special family feeling that really brought everyone closer together. These 2 teams sparkled at the 2026 basketball weekend in Berlin, but there were also many other unforgettable things that gave everyone witnessing the games joy.

Bonn/Koln celebrate 2026 JBBL title

The 2026 NBBL/Top4 was my 8th in a row that I have covered as a writer as well as a play by play broadcaster. It was the third time in a row that it had taken place in Berlin. I took on the trek to Berlin on Thursday afternoon from Montabaur and went via Frankfurt to Berlin in about 5 hours. On the train ride, I studied the team rosters for my broadcast as well as also took a break and read my new book “Killing Willis” about Todd Bridges who came to fame in 1978 as he joined the American TV series Different Strokes which ran for 8 years and after that saw his life turn 180 degrees as he had struggles with addiction and the law, but in time was able to clean up his life and find his true identity. I´m not only focusing on basketball, but every once in a while need to turn to something new. I arrived in Berlin at my hotel at 21.30 and the first known face I saw was Jochen Lotz, the JBBL (U-16) head coach of Ulm. As I arrived he was briefing his boys about the next day. I went to my room, relaxed and had a Subway sandwich and soon called it a day. Friday would be a very long day as I would call to JBBL games at 4:30 and 7:00 pm. I got up in the morning and prepared a bit for my 2 telecasts and then went on a 2 hour walk at mid day going to Spandau that has a nice mix of nature and old churches that I enjoyed visiting. I departed for the arena at 2:45 with the JBBL Oldenburg team in their mini bus. Oldenburg has reached the Top 4 the last 3 years. I had ridden with them each season to the Berlin arena and brought them luck in 2024 as they won the title. I simply kept up the tradition. I got in the arena and as usual walked around and just took in the atmosphere. It is an older gym, but one that is very bright. Then I went up to the area where I would call the game. It is about 20 rows up. The lightening wasn´t great in terms of being able to read my notes, but that was something I had to accept and deal with. The first game was the Baskets Juniors Oldenburg against Team Baskets Bonn/Koln RAG. I called the game and saw a real classic youth basketball game. It was a game of ups and downs for both teams and was really close in crunch-time. Oldenburg was led and carried by allrounder Samuel Shchepotkin who displayed his ruthless scoring talent taking 32 shots and finishing with 29 points. However his scoring in the end still wasn´t enough as Bonn/Koln won the game on their last possession with a game winner by Khalil Idbihi who is the second eldest son of former German national player Yassin Idbihi. He barreled into the zone scoring over 3 players and sent their fans into ecstasy and finished with 22 points. Despite totally dominating on the offensive boards, it didn´t help Oldenburg reach the final. It was a massive accomplishment for the team as they had only qualified for the JBBL regular season the summer before. In the second contest, it was Ulm against Hamburg that also turned out to be an incredible game as well where in the end Ulm was able to pull out the victory 105-99. Ulm took the lead early, but later had to give it up as Hamburg rebounded and were led by allrounder Danny Egbe who would finish with 33 points. Ulm was severely hurt when Marko Volf landed his fourth foul right before the break. Ulm had to play long stretches without Volf and trailed by as much as 17 points. However other key players stepped up from Ulm with Justus Reintjes and Gabriel De Connick who scored 27 and 25 points, Volf came back and then played carefully and didn´t get a fifth foul while finishing with 28 points. Hamburg was down by 4 points in the last minute, but 3 offensive rebounds and free throws broke their neck. Hamburg also got a powerful game from German prospect Johan Meinberg with 10 points and 19 rebounds. I had the pleasure again to call games for the third straight year with German basketball legend Dirk Bauermann who led Germany with Dirk Nowitzki to the 2005 Silver at the European championships. He is a guy that always talks exactly what he thinks and as usual gave incredible expertise about the game and the young players that he closely monitors with the German basketball federation.

Jonas Mattessek and Franz Wagner taking in the NBBL game of Alba Berlin

Day 2 had the 2 NBBL (U-19 games on the slate. I did my running that day running about 10 kilometers and then went to the arena at 2:45. I had the day off commentating, but would write an in depth game report on Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners a team I have followed and reported on for more than 2 decades. Frankfurt had an incredible playoff run disposing of IBAM and Jena in 4 do or die games. They had a lot of self-confidence coming into the semi-final game against Alba Berlin, but at the same time knew it would be a tough challenge. It didn´t help them that 2026 AST MVP Jamie Edoka and other starting 5 player Julius Messer were out due to injury. Frankfurt was clearly the underdog and for 3 quarters were trying to comeback from 10 point differences, but the trek up the mountain was a steep one. Alba Berlin led 17-2 early and everyone knew in the arena that it would be a long afternoon for Frankfurt. Alba berlin had the depth and massive advantage under the basket as Frankfurt was severely undermined length wise. Alba Berlin was able to overpower Frankfurt as they always led between 10-20 points in the first 30 minutes. But in the fourth quarter, Frankfurt was content not to depart Berlin without a fight. Lukas Smazak had the game of his life exploding for 39 points and taking total command and leading a Frankfurt comeback that will be remembered for a long time. He continued dropping three´s and would finish with 8 and had 2 key steals and lay in´s on transition in the last 2 minutes to get them so close to 77-78. Frankfurt had the chance to send the game to overtime with a last shot from Smazak, but his shot bounced out and the game was over. The Alba Berlin fan area behind the basket went crazy and NBA player and ex Alba Berlin player Franz Wagner was also all smiles as he cheered on the boys. Alba Berlin had 11 guys score and were led by Anton Kemmer (198-F-2008) with 16 points and Nevio Bennefeld cleaned up the boards with a 12/11 game. Alba Berlin also controlled the boards 52-35. Universal genius Ivan Crnjac had an off day going 3/14 and finished with 8 points. A great season came to an end for Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners. In the second semi-final game pitted 2 great teams with Ulm and Vechta. Vechta had won 2 years ago where they had NBA prospect Johan Grunloh while Ulm was still searching for that first NBBL title. Ulm had most likely their best team ever while Vechta wasn´t as strong as in pervious years and went into the contest as the underdog. Vechta came into the game motivated and led 23-18 after 10 minutes, but a 7-0 run to start the second quarter by Ulm got them the momentum and from then on it was clear sailing as they had the lead and would never look back again and win 87-74. Ulm led by as much as 24 points in the third quarter, but Vechta staged a late comeback in the fourth quarter, but it wasn´t enough. Vechta shot the ball well from outside at 41%, but couldn´t come to terms with Ulm´s aggressive defense as Ulm had 14 steals. Ulm also had the better individual players and depth and were led by French prospect Meissa Faye with 23 points, while Endurnace Aiyamenkhue had a monster 12/15 game while Teo Milcic was close to a triple double with 16/9/9 game and Yanu Slingerland added 12 points and 10 rebounds.

One of the great things about the NBBL/JBBL Top 4 is that it is once a year and a time where many people involved in the German basketball scene come and visit. If it´s players, coaches, agents or office employees, you always bump into people you know. People that I saw again as they are a constant fixture at this event the last years were 1993 Euro champion Henning Harnisch as well as ex German national players Stefan Hamann, Jan Jagla and Heiko Schaffarzik. I also spotted Chris Ensminger who played numerous years with Bamberg under the guidance of Dirk Bauermann. I also spoke with ex Ulm assistant coach Pete Strobl who had been in the States the last few years and recently helped A-2 Italian team Pistoia remain in the league. He was in Berlin watching his talented son Peja play with NBBL team Vechta. I also saw ex German national league player Patrick Femmerling as well as 2024 NBBL champion head coach Hendrik Gruhn as well as Rhondorf head coach Max Becker and Ludwigsburg youth and Pro B coach Khee Ree. I also saw Alba Berlin players like Sven Schultze, Jack Kayil and Jonas Mattisseck. I also met Sebastian Buchberger a guy that has been following basketball for years and is running German basketball summary which is a basketball feed where he posts all key basketball news around Germany and other countries daily. I also hung out with 2 basketball institutions in German basketball reporting with Jan Finken who has covered basketball since more than 20 years and writes great articles for BIG magazine and was there writing game summaries for the NBBL. The other was American David Hein who like myself has been covering basketball in Germany for decades as we are the only 2 guys reporting in English for German basketball. Last but not least I also saw my guy Joe Asberry who is a basketball legend that played in Germany in the 90´s and since then has been a basketball workaholic working as a MOC, motivator, basketball coach and agent. He has been helping young boys and girls play the game better. It is always fun catching up with him about the game and life. I also saw 2025 NBBL champions Ivan Volf and Dominic Dolic. Dolic gave me fantastic quotes to the Alba Berlin-Frankfurt game and even drove me back to my hotel after the semi-final games on Saturday. He is a very nice guy that has great manners, but he definitely didn´t have to do that. I also saw Paderborn center Leonard Kroger who assisted me with fantastic quotes about the NBBL final for my article.

Teo Milicic

Day 3 Sunday had the 2 final games on the plate as well as the U-19 woman´s final. I don´t follow woman´s basketball, but took in the final and saw how Alba Berlin beat defending champion Wurzburg. I also spotted a tall girl playing for Alba Berlin that had a face that looked familiar. It didn´t surprise me when the name was Lily Schultze. She was the daughter of ex Alba Berlin legend Sven Schultze. I did play by play of the first JBBL final between Ulm and Team Bonn/Koln with Dirk Bauermann. Fans saw a very high scoring first quarter as both teams combined for 48 points and Bonn had the slim 4 point lead after 10 minutes. However in the second quarter, Ulm heightened their game a bit scoring 26 points as Bonn/Koln got away from their sound team ball and played more isolation. At the break head coach Tom Becker reminded his players why Bonn/Koln had reached the final which was through team ball. His team heeded his advice and in the second half outscored Ulm 56-37 getting back to playing their game again to take the JBBL crown. The 2 stars of the game were Idbihi (18/14/5 ) of Bonn/Koln and Volf (33 points) of Ulm and both had solid games, but it was Finn Wohlert of Bonn that stole the show from Volf as he exploded for 33 points. Bonn almost averaged 100 points per game in the regular season and showed their scoring power in the final. They let it ran three´s hitting for 18 and had 10 more than Ulm. Bonn/Koln also picked up special awards as Khalil Idbihi was voted rookie of the year and head coach Tom Becker scooped up coach of the year. The NBBL final between Alba Berlin and ratiopharm Ulm was an entertaining final that saw a close battle in the first 20 minutes as Alba Berlin led 22-20. However in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get away leading by 9 points at the break. Alba Berlin relied on their team basketball where they always had fresh energy coming off the bench while Ulm relied heavily on their offensive duo of Meissa Faye and Teo Milicic who combined for 51 points in the game. Ulm never gave up and heightened their game a bit in the third quarter outscoring Alba Berlin 25-21 to trail only 68-63. However Ulm couldn´t get over the hump in the fourth quarter as Alba Berlin managed the lead well, but Ulm fought until the end. Milicic made clutch shots and Ulm trailed only 85-83 with under a minute to go. Alba Berlin then slammed the door shut on Ulm as Bennefeld missed two free throws and it looked like Ulm could get possession, but the rebound turned into a loose ball that landed in the hands of Anton Kemmer who finished with the put back and the 87-83 win. The team collective that Alba Berlin showed for 40 minutes and 24 offensive rebounds was simply too much for Ulm. Anton Kemmer finished with 16 points and 8 rebounds and was finals MVP. THE NBBL season awards went to Leonard Kroger as MVP, Munich´s Caspar Vossenberg was rookie of the year, Daniel Biel defender of the year and Marius Linartas coach of the year. I was still in the arena an hour after the final ended working on my game report and waiting to depart for the train station. It was another long rlde home as I had an 1,5 hour lay over at 1:30 am in Cologne. I was finally home at 4.30 am. It was another great weekend of basketball with the best youth players in Germany battling for the titles. The weekend was another great promotion for German youth basketball.

Milo Murray Knows That ratiopharm Ulm Will End The Season In Berlin The Right Way Especially With Many Being Their Last Year

pic credit: ratiopharm Ulm

Milo Murray (198-G-2007) is a 18 year old 198cm forward playing with Orange Academy (Pro B), Ratiopharm Ulm (NBBL) and BBU 01 Ulm (Regionalliga. Last season he played 5 Pro B games with Orange Academy averaging 3.4ppg, 2.4rpg, played also at ratiopharm Ulm U19 team (NBBL) averaging 7.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 72.2%, played also at BBU 01 Ulm (Regionalliga) averaging 8.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 60.0%. He also played also ANGT with ratiopharm Ulm U18 team (ANGT) winning the title averaging 4.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 2FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 50.0%. He spoke to germanmhoops.com about the NBBL Top 4.

Thanks Milo for talking to germanhoops.com. You are back in Berlin for the 2026 NBBL Top 4. How good does that feel?

Thank you for the opportunity and thank you for having me. It feels great playing with a bunch of really talented guys who I get along with on and off to court and it feels great to be able to represent the club I’ve been playing for the last four years at such a prestigious event and on such a special weekend.

Last season you lost the NBBL final to Munich. What will you always remember from that tough final loss?

I remember seeing our veterans like Jordan Müller and Jonas Zilinskas being upset since it was their last opportunity to play NBBL and I want to be able to get the championship this year for my family for my friends and for the amazing organization that Ulm is.

The NBBL season has been great. The team rolled easily by top teams Urspring and FC Bayern Munich. What do you believe has been the secret to the dominating success? How vital is the combination of depth and chemistry?

Big respect to both teams. They gave us hard battles throughout the season, but it was time to show what Ulm stands for and what we do when the season is on the line. For most of the guys in the team it is their last year playing NBBL so it was only right that we end this season the right way in Berlin. I believe chemistry and the depth of our team was extremely important. I felt like a lot of the guys spend time together away from the basketball court whether it’s staying at each other’s houses whether it’s going out for food whether it’s helping each other out with schoolwork, we all get along really well in the locker room, especially it’s a great vibe and I’m really grateful to have such a great team around me at all times. Depth plays a huge role two because it’s a long season most of the guys playing 2 to 3 different leagues whether that’s Landesliga, OberLiga, Pro B and or BBL/euro cup so our depth gives everyone a chance to get on the floor and compete while staying at a high-level. Huge respect to our strength and conditioning guys Andi and Jonas for monitoring us.

What kind of a feeling was it destroying top German club FC Bayern Munich winning game 1 by 15 points and the last one by 26 points. Ulm didn´t just beat Munich, but won with ease. Plus getting revenge for the 2025 NBBL final loss.

Especially after losing to FC Bayern Munich in the finals last year it felt really good cruising by them in the series while competing to get one step closer to the top four. We played an old teammate of ours: huge credit to Niko Jerkic an amazing player who gave us trouble. from Bayern a few key players were missing and it would’ve been an even more exciting matchup to see both our stacked rosters play against each other but that’s just how the game of basketball goes!

Ulm has reached the NBBL Top 4 in Berlin. I can imagine only winning the title is the goal. Do you feel like the team can up their performance level another level?

From the beginning of the season, this was one of our main goals to reach the top four in Berlin and being there we’ve accomplished the goal we said and the only thing left we have to do now is win. I believe everyone has to put in lots of work throughout the season we’ve been coached by Florian who has set the bar very high and is responsible for a lot of our success.

How vital has Yanu Slingerland been? Is he like a type of special glue guy?

Yanu also known as “slingy” is a great guy to have on your team, because he knocks down shots, defends full court and listens to tips and advices from the older guys. He will definitely be a player to look out for during this tournament and will for sure have a great career in front of him. Definitely a guy that we can rely on in tricky moments to knock down the three-point shot.

Talk a little about the importance of Kayaan Yeboah. How vital are his defensive qualities for the success of the team?

Kayaan is one of my longest teammates here at Ulm. We spent three years in the player’s house together and have played many many games with each other. His defensive presence on the court is overwhelming for the opposing team and is also a guy who is a three and D type of player who gives spurts of energy when needed. When he has his day and is confident, it’s hard to stop his motor.

You have a big role in the NBBL team averaging 29 minutes. With your experience would you classify yourself as one of the main leaders?

I would definitely class myself as one of the leaders I have now played a few seasons in the NBBL and use this to my advantage to help the team and I could say with confidence that they believe in me to be one of the main guys getting it done on the court

The NBBL team has many scorers, but you average 12,0ppg. What other facets of your game do you bring to the table that helps the team besides scoring?

We have a whole bunch of talented basketball players who can put the ball in the basket. Meissa Faye, Endi Aiyamenkhue, Teo Milicic, Felix Kielnekher, Yanu Slingerland. Being some of the few names that can be mentioned under players who can score the ball what separates me from some of these guys is the versatility that I bring mid range scoring, stretching the floor, my transition game in the open court and my post fade aways. What I also bring to the court which is my most important aspect is my high energy communicating talking to the guys on offense and on defense and making sure everyone is on the same page whether that’s on the bench whether that’s on the floor, whether that’s in the locker room or even on the team bus. I take pride in being one of the older guys and leading us to this championship I would count myself as a locker room guy who gets along with everyone and has a good relationship with the coaching staff in Ulm.

How vital has the success of NBBL and Pro B been with head coach Florian Flabb. How special are his abilities to be able to get young men play both ends of the court?

Florian has been with us for the last two years now and it has been a pleasure being able to work with him. The effort he puts into our videos, practices and overall time as a team that’s not go unappreciated and it is not something that every coach is willing to do for his team. Can’t forget assistant coach Erik Rösch who does a lot of the dirty work and our success wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for the man Erik. For me personally it was very challenging with Florian in my first year since there was a lot of talented players older than me. I’m more experienced what he allowed me to do was gain experience and knowledge and apply it to my games and I think it has really paid off this year.

What kind of a relationship do you have with Coach Flabb? How has he helped your game the most the last few years?

Coach and I get along well of the court as well. He is a family man and I truly respect that about him despite the efforts he puts in with us. He still finds time to spend with his family while prioritising 2 important things his job and his family. It has been a pleasure working with him and I’m excited to be able to hopefully win a championship in Berlin this upcoming weekend.

Thanks Milo for the chat.

Winning The NCAA Title In 2023 Was So Special For Nahiem Alleyne(Skyliners) As He Had Had That On His Bucket List Since 8th Grade

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Foto:| ZIBART:DE

For every American baller the dream is to play in the NBA and win the NBA title and probably the big goal before the NBA is winning the NCAA title at March Madness. Winning an NCAA title is rare and what is even rarer is experiencing guys having won that exceptional title play in the easyCredit BBL. There simply haven´t been many guys that have done it. There was even two German guys who won the NCAA title twice with Niels Giffey and Christian Ast. One had to wait 17 years after Henrik Rodl won with North Carolina in 1993 to see Giffey win it with Kemba Walker and UConn in 2011. He did it again in 2014 for a second time with Shabazz Napier. 2 other players that stand out that have won the NCAA title and played in Germany in the BBL were Darius Miller with Kentucky who won a BBL title with Bamberg and Napier who won a title with FC Bayern Munich. This season there is another baller balling in Germany with the Skyliners with Nahiem Alleyne (193-G-2001, college: St.John’s) who also won March Madness. He also did it with UConn in 2023. Somehow UConn has had that knack of sending guys to Germany. There was another player that also played in Germany with Senegal big man Souleymane Wane in Giessen who also won with UConn in 1999. For Nahiem Alleyne winning the NCAA title means so much. It was a goal that he had on his bucket list already in elementary school “I saw my goals come to life. I wrote a list of dreams in eighth grade and one of them was winning the NCAA title. It was a real wow moment. I have 2 distinct memories from the NCAA final. The first that I will never forget was running onto the court and seeing the fans in the football stadium. I was nervous. It felt like 1 million fans were there. It was a dope moment. The other was around the 2 minute mark where I knew that we were going to win it all”, stressed Skyliner guard Nahiem Alleyne.

Nahiem Alleyne who lists Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic as his toughest opponent in the NCAA was born on July 23, 2001 in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He attended South Gwinnett High School and also Mountain View High School. He was a HS three-star on 247 Sports and was ranked as the 21st-best player in the state of Georgia in 2019. He then attended Virginia Tech from 2019-2022 and played 90 NCAA games. He had consistent stats averaging 8.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 76.2%, : 11.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 80.7% and 9.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 38.8%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 85.2%. He reached 2 NCAA tournaments and in his last season won the ACC title. Not many players can say that they beat North Carolina and Duke back to back to win the ACC title. “That run was special. We were a 7th seed. I remember we had a meeting before the ACC tournament. We felt like we could win it all. We really got locked in. North Carolina was our kryptonite. We had so much energy against them and were hot the whole game. We knew that we could beat them. After that we knew we could win it all. We then beat Duke and coach K in his last season”, stressed Nahiem Alleyne. He had so many great games including hitting Florida for 28 points in a tough March madness loss and overall really grew as a player under head coach Mike Young. “Coach young really took me under his wing. I honestly didn´t think like I was good enough, but he always believed in me. He groomed me into the player that I am today”, remembered Nahiem Alleyne. He then added a year with the University of Connecticut (NCAA) averaging 5.2ppg, 1.2rpg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 87.1% and won the NCAA title. Was that the best basketball decision in his life? “I´m really grateful for getting the opportunity and playing for head coach Dan Hurley. But individual wise, it was my worst season in the NCAA. I had some mental issues”, said Nahiem Alleyne. But it was all worth it since, he helped UConn win it all. The team was on a mission that season and dominated at March madness. “If someone had told me in October 2022 that we would win it all, I would have believed it. We had so many pieces. I remember tweeting a pic of the 2011 winning team. I felt like we had something special. We knew going in that we could win it all, but that it would be tough. The first 2 games were tough. The first one against Iona was the toughest. The next one against St Marys and Logan Johnson was also tough. But when we beat Gonzaga bad, I knew that we would win it all”, warned Nahiem Alleyne. He then added one more season at St. John’s University (NCAA) averaging 6.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 89.5%. He played twice against UConn that season and lost. He was able to grow a bit more under coaching legend Rick Pitino. “That was a learning year for me. It was amazing to be able to play for him. I learned the mental aspects of the game. I was able to see things through his eyes and perspective. I then realized why he had been so successful. His attention to detail and scouting was amazing. We had a good group of guys, but just didn´t make March Madness”, remembered Nahiem Alleyne who never played 1-1 against ex teammate Daniss Jenkins, but remembers him being one of the quickest guards that he ever faced in his career.

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Foto: ZIBART.DE

The Georgia native who lists Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Hakeem Olajuwan and Magic Johnson on his personal NBA mount Rushmore began his professional career overseas with AEK Betsson Athens (Greece-GBL)playing 4 Basketball Champions League: games averaging 5.3ppg, and then in Nov.’24 moved to Trefl Sopot (Poland-OBL) averaging 6.1ppg, 2.2rpg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 85.0%, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 38.5% and averaged 7.2ppg in the Eurocup. Every American has a wake up call to being overseas for the first time and it wasn´t any different for him. “When I got on the plane, I realized that this was really happening and when I landed it all hit me. Everything was different. My parents were far away and there was a time difference. I was really in awe the first 2 weeks”, remembered Nahiem Alleyne. His stay in Greece was very short as they had too many imports and he was the odd man out as a rookie. He was told that he would of played more with less imports. However he didn´t allow this first experience to rattle him, but he stayed on his toes and sought a new challenge in Poland where he had a long playoff run and played Eurocup. He had a different kind of a role as he wasn´t much of a scorer. “My role there was a tough one. I was a 3 and D player, but it really didn´t feel like it. I gave all I had and made my whole stay something out of it. It was a blessing playing against great players in the Eurocup. That showed me where I was as a player. I knew the next summer that I had to work on a lot of my game”, said Nahiem Alleyne. He was fortunate to have had many great veterans on the squad like ex NBA and BBL player Nick Johnson who showed him the ropes. “Nick was always funny and had so much energy. He always kept it real with me”, added Nahiem Alleyne.

The Ex UConn guard who lists Adama Sanogo (UConn), Jordan Hawkins (UConn), Daniss Jenkins (ST Johns), Justyn Mutts (Virginia Tech) and Tyrece Radford (Virginia Tech) as his 5 best teammates of all-time is playing his second professional season with the Skyliners. It took him a little adjustment time with all, but overall has enjoyed the experience and is very appreciative to Klaus Perwas and the coaching staff for helping him get integrated. He trains in a state of the art training facility and lives in a mall next to the facility. He has everything he needs there. Does he ever get out of the mall to explore the German culture? “I do get out a little bit. But to be honest, I don´t go out much. I have hit some restaurants and checked out the art museums. I like to take walks and have seen the river Main downtown”, said Nahiem Alleyne. On the court, it has been a tough season as the team is somewhere in the middle not in danger of moving down, but also not near the playoff territory “We had a tough stretch of games. I´m confident though that we have the pieces to make a run. We have been up and down and won a few more games. We just keep going which gives us hope”, stated Nahiem Alleyne. A big problem has been being able to close out games. The Skyliners have lost 8 close games. Is that big go to guy missing? “We all ask ourselves why we have lost so many close games. We were in so many games. I think that a problem has been that we allow one mistake to multiple into 2-3 mistakes. We then crumble. I feel like we have a good balance of players. We are all dangerous in many ways and just as dangerous if we had that one main go to guy”, expressed Nahiem Alleyne. One guy who has been missed is Jaedon LeDee who is involved in a contract dispute. Alleyne beat LeDee in the 2023 NCAA title game. “At the start I poked fun at him, but overtime it got less. Jaedon is a really good guy”, said Nahiem Alleyne. He has gelled greatly in the back court with immensely talented rookie Isaiah Swope. “I love Isaiah. He has asked me many questions about my journey. He is a real workhorse. He values the game so much and always wants to get better. We have a close relationship and both are competitors on the court”, commented Nahiem Alleyne.

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Foto: ZIBART.DE

The 3 and D player who lists Kobe Bryant as his GOAT is a player that likes to take things from many players to help implement into his game. He enjoys the game of Malik Beasley and how he shoots the ball and defends and lists CJ McCollum as his favorite player and his favorite defender is Jrue Holiday. He is though more than just a 3 and D player. “I like to get to the mid range a lot and when the opponents defense gets me off the line, then I like to use the pull up jumper as well. I´m also focused on using the floater more”, added Nahiem Alleyne. He is known as being a three point specialist and wants to continue to flourish overseas as a shooter. “I just want to be consistent and be confident. That is the main thing. I just will keep working on my shot. Just knowing to shoot it when the defenders hand is down, take the pull up off the three point line and knowing a half contested shot is a good shot”, warned Nahiem Alleyne. He also is striving to be the best defender possible. “I want to play at the highest level. I know that my defense generates my offense. I watch a lot of Jrue Holiday and Thomas Walkup. I want to be able to guard the other teams best players”, warned Nahiem Alleyne. He continues to be in the lab to improve his game as best as possible. “I´m working on many things like my ball handling, pick and roll reads and playmaking. But what I´m working on most is playing freely”, stated Nahiem Alleyne. This season he is averaging 8,8ppg and 3,0rpg and shooting 35% from outside and has scored in double figures in 11 of 26 games. Is it a fair assessment that he has been up and down? “Yes I have been up and down. I´m better though than in my rookie season. I have to improve my consistency”, warned Nahiem Alleyne. It is now the stretch run of the season and his favorite win of the season was in Ulm. “There is a lot history with Ulm and I played against my ex teammate Chris Ledlum. The win was amazing, because we showed that we could play with anyone”, stressed Nahiem Alleyne. The Skyliners were unable to reach the playoffs, but for Nahiem Alleyne, it was a season where he gathered vital experience and will be ready for battle on the court in year 3 no matter where he lands.

Getting Less Shots Than Usual Has Given 2026 ENBL Champion Tahlik Chavez(Dziki Warszawa) The Special Mentality Of Having To Make Shots

Tahlik Chavez (188-G-2001, college: La Tech) is a 25 year old 188cm guard playing his first season with Dziki Warszawa. He played his rookie season with the Koping Stars (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 21.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.9apg, SPG-3 (1.6), FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT-5 (88.1%). He began his basketball career with Lake Ridge High School and then played a season at Garden City Community College (JUCO) averaging 20.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 82.9%. He then played a season at Iona College (NCAA) averaging 3.2ppg, 1.2rpg and then played 2 seasons at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 75.0and 11,.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 77.9%. He then added a season at Louisiana Tech University (NCAA) averaging 13.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 76.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Thanks Tahlik for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Dziki Warszawa. What have you enjoyed most about playing for this organization?

My experience here has been great. The coaching staff and people within the organization all treat us well. It really feels like a big family. The Polish vets took us all in.

How have you learned to embrace the Polish culture and city Warshaw? What has been your nicest moment off the court?

I have really enjoyed eating at the food halls or hitting the Casino´s with my teammates.

Last season in Sweden you were the go to guy, but this season you have many great scorers. What exactly is your role on the team in Poland?

My role this season is to bring scoring off the bench, energy and just hit shots.

You had many great games, but also not so good games. How have you dealt mentally with growing pains as a player in your second pro season?

I feel like this season I have grown the most mentally in my career. I have played less minutes this season in comparison to last season. I think what has kept me most focused has been keeping God first and just believing in the work that I put in on a daily basis.

The Polish league is a step above what you saw in Sweden. How do you feel has your game grown in The Polish and ENBL this season?

I think that my game has really matured this season. I have played point guard this season and have been able to make plays that I hadn´t been able to make before. I have learned a lot by my veteran teammates.

You have always been a really solid three point shooter. This season your at 43% in the Polish league. What has helped you achieve your best shooting season in the last years?

I think that my secret has been always staying locked in and just being ready when my name is called. I haven´t gotten as many shots this season as usual, so I know that I have to make them.

You played your rookie season with the Koping Stars (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging (21.9), 3.8rpg, 3.9apg, SPG-3 (1.6), FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT-5 (88.1%). What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I think my wake up call came when winter hit. It began getting dark at 3 in the afternoon and got light at 7 Am. I knew then that I had arrived overseas.

You got your first taste of overseas playoffs beating Uppsala and then lost to Norrkoping. What memories will you always have from these series?

Our team had never finished higher than 4th place. It was really special having a big role and being part of something really special. We had a special connection as teammates and still have a group chat today.

After high school you played a season with Garden City Community College (JUCO) averaging 20.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 82.9%. Every guy that I have interviewed have reported that Juco was a grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded for anything. How was it for you?

I would agree also that I wouldn´t trade Juco for anything in the world either. My experience in Juco molded me into the guy I am today. I just kept grinding every day despite having no offers. The coach believed in me and I was in the middle of nowhere in Kansas and just focused on basketball.

How vital was head coach Patrick Nee for your early basketball development? How did he help your game most?

He really believed in me and put the ball in my hands and let me go. We still have a great relationship to this day. My little brother plays for him now.

You then played a season at Iona College (NCAA) averaging 3.2ppg, 1.2rpg. How tough was this season for you? What positives could you get out of playing for legend Rick Pitino?

Rick Pitino is a legend. He has the biggest growth of knowledge. I always tried to pick his brain. I will never forget when he would yell on the microphone. He knew the level that I needed to make it at the professional level.

You then played 2 seasons at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 75.0and 11,.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 77.9%. Was this the best basketball decision of your life? How did your game grow there?

It was 100% the best basketball decision in my life. I love that school and still talk to the coaching staff to this day. I built relationships there that will last a lifetime. It was the first year that I played point guard. I believe that I grew there a lot as a young adult.

You then added a season at at Louisiana Tech University (NCAA) averaging 13.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 76.7%. You had many great games there against Louisiana and FIU. What was your fondest moment there?

I had so many special moments there. I also had a great coach here and teammates. I think beating Western Kentucky on the road was one of my fondest moments. They had beat us at our place and took away our undefeated record at home. So going back to their place and winning was really special.

How did head coach Talvin Hester give you that last push for a pro career?

Her always believed in me and saw that the work that I put in. Whenever a coach believes in me, it really helps my self-confidence.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tyler Henry?

I won 100%.

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

Jake LaRavia of the Lakers.

Please name your 5 best teammates of al-time?

Jordan Hayes, Isaiah Crawford, Dravon Mangum, Bennett Vander Plass and Rivaldo Soares

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, Shaq and Michael Jordan

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant

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

They could of left it alone, but I´m not mad that they didn´t.

Thanks Tahlik for the chat.

Efficient Tahlik Chavez Believes That Dziki Warszawa Will Have The Bigger Heart To Win The 2026 ENBL Title Against Manchester

Tahlik Chavez (188-G-2001, college: La Tech) is a 25 year old 188cm guard playing his first season with Dziki Warszawa. He played his rookie season with the Koping Stars (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 21.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.9apg, SPG-3 (1.6), FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT-5 (88.1%). He began his basketball career with Lake Ridge High School and then played a season at Garden City Community College (JUCO) averaging 20.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 82.9%. He then played a season at Iona College (NCAA) averaging 3.2ppg, 1.2rpg and then played 2 seasons at Charleston Southern University (NCAA) averaging 11.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 75.0and 11,.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 77.9%. He then added a season at Louisiana Tech University (NCAA) averaging 13.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 76.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after reaching the ENBL final beating CSO Voluntari.

Congrats on the big 87-80 win over CSO Voluntari to reach the 2026 ENBL final. How big is this win for you personally? Your one win away from your first pro chip.

It felt really amazing to be in the position to be able to win my first pro chip as well as first international chip for the organization.

How strange is it having a top 4 in the middle of the week? Was this a tough adjustment?

It actually didn´t feel that strange. We already had had some back to back games this season like against Greece team Iraklis. I know it will be tough playing the final tomorrow, but we will be ready.

Voluntari went into the game as the favorite. Do you feel like the underdog role suited the team best? How big was the desire to win?

We saw ourselves as the underdog. We wanted to stamp ourselves as the dog against the defending champion. Our desire was so big to win. We won for each other.

Dziki Warszawa led by as much as 6 points in the first quarter, but led only 21-20 after 10 minutes. How key was it for your team making that first punch?

We have had problems this season not being able to punch first. We just try to stick together. Tonight we didn´t want to start the wrong way.

You scored 8 points in a row in the first quarter including 2 three´s. How motivated were you to improve your 0/7 night against Iraklis in the last ENBL game?

I actually had forgotten that last shooting game against Iraklis. Good shooters have a short term memory. I actually remembered my last shooting game of 7/8 in the polish league.

CSO Voluntari went on a little run late in the second quarter and led 48-41 at the break. What was key for the opponent getting the lead and keeping it?

We got down on each other. We let down a bit. We didn´t fight back the way we should of.

In the third quarter Dziki Warszawa fought back and led 66-60 after 30 minutes. What did head coach Marco Legovic tell the team to do better?

He told us to keep our heads up. We didn´t play our best defense in the first half. He told us to play better defense and we did that. We were more aggressive and were hands down.

American Landrius Horton got going and made key baskets in the come back. How vital has his play been all season long for the team success?

He has been great all season long. He is a great player and even greater person. Some of the things that he does in practice shocks me. He is an amazing player that has helped us win many games.

In the fourth quarter, Dziki Warszawa led it rain three´s to conserve the lead well. What was the biggest strength on defense for your team?

Our ball pressure and heart were key at the end. Every guy put their body on the line for the team. We also did a good job getting the rebounds.

Darren Edge finished with 17 points and made key baskets in the fourth quarter. How vital has his paly been since he arrived from German team Ludwigsburg?

He also has been great. Often you have guys that come from other teams and it takes some time to fit in. But he fit in right from the start. He wants to win as badly as the other guys. He fit in offensively and with us as who we are as players.

Both teams shot well and they rebounded a bit better than your team. Was this game won on the possessions? Dziki only coughed up the ball 7 times?

Our ball pressure helped cause turnovers for the opponent. We kept the pace up and we had more depth.

You were very efficient with 21 points in 20 minutes. You have been very efficient this season. Have you always had that in your game?

This is the least that I have played in my life. I have to come in and make shots when they count. I feel like I have been able to grow in my role doing that this season

You next battle Manchester. What will be ´key to getting title?

We just have to be ourselves and be who we are. I feel like we have the heart to take it.

How big is the team belief that Dziki Warszawa will win the title?

It is huge. We were able to beat Iraklis in a very tough environment. We believe that we can beat anyone.

Thanks Tahlik for the chat.

The AST Tournament Helped Raise AST German Champion Dusan Ilic’s IQ To Another Level

For 17 year old Dusan Ilic (188-G-2008) who is a mix out of Shai and Kyrie on the court, it has been an incredible stimulating 2025-2026 season as he has simply experienced so much for a 17 year old in terms of basketball. He is near completion of his first Pro B season with the Dragons Rhondorf where he was already getting meaningful minutes from the bench as a 16 year old in the first half of the season. There were 5 games where he averaged 20 minutes or more including a 30 minute game against Rostock and 6 games where he scored in double figures. He showed early maturity as a 16 year old coming from the bench and always giving great energy and being as efficient as possible. He continued to grow as a player in the next months and recently played Adidas Next gen and was having a solid showing averaging 9/3/6/1 stats, but then play abruptly being halted because of the war in Iran. He couldn´t get home right away and was stuck in Dubai for days not knowing when he could return home. Then only a few days he was crowned AST champion with Germany for only the third time in the history of the 31 year tournament. But his season didn´t end there, as he has a do or die game this Friday at home against top team Orange Academy where his season could end or continue. There he will face his AST teammate Felix Kielnekar again, but now as an opponent. No matter what happens against Orange Academy, it is fair to say that his AST experience was his biggest highlight this season. It was an experience he surely won´t forget. “Our goal was winning the Gold medal. We were prepared and got 100% from every player. I was so relived when the buzzer sounded in the final, but also overjoyed. It was a big achievement for us. This tournament is only every 2 years and it showcases the best youth players in the world. It was a big highlight having my family in attendance. They were very proud of me. I was really happy getting a lot of congratulatory messages from family and from Dragon players like Juhwan Harris-Dyson”, stressed Dusan Ilic.

pic credit: Laddler-photography

Germany played Bahrain first and used it as a warm up destroying the Asian team 116-59. Germany totally controlled the boards 55-31 and had 6 players score in double figures led by Lucai Anderson with 16 points. “We went into the first game not wanting to underestimate anyone. We began to dominate the game after a few minutes. That gave us the opportunity to work on other things and prepare for the next opponents. We also were able to work on our chemistry”, stated Dusan Ilic. Jamie Edoka had a solid first game scoring 11 points and filled the stat sheet and was on his way to becoming one of the best players in the tournament. “Jamie is a really good player. He attacks the rim really well and was a very good team captain. He has a lot of potential”, said Dusan Ilic. Germany next faced Slovenia and had their toughest challenge of the tournament. Germany started slow and had to play catch up basketball for most of the game. Germany picked up the intensity in the fourth quarter at both ends and won it with the masterful game winner by Jamie Edoka. “The close win taught us that we can never give up. We were able to turn the game around, but we also learned that we had to always start a game with 100%. We knew that a game is a long time and you can never give up”, warned Dusan Ilic. Germany controlled the boards again 41-33 with 16 offensive rebounds and had 4 guys score in double figures. Lucai Anderson was top scorer with 16 points and nailed big three´s when Germany needed it in their come back. Caspar Vossenberg added 13 points and was one of those silent hero´s during the tournament stepping up in so many ways. “His energy was great and he was able to attack the rim really well. He also always motivated us on and off the court. That helped us always support each other and harmonize well”, added Dusan Ilic. Germany next faced Turkey where many Turkish fans showed up adding to a beautiful atmosphere. Germany was in control in the first half, but had a horrible third quarter being outscored 24-4, but retreated in the fourth quarter demonstrating that they can flip the switch at any time exploding for 29 points and winning easily 95-80. “We had ups and downs in this game. But all in all, it was tough for anyone to beat us. We never gave up and always stuck together”, warned Dusan Ilic. Germany once again dominated the boards 44-26 and offensive rebounds 20-8 and shot a potent 46% from outside. Germany was led by Lucai Anderson with 26 points and had 4 players in double figures. Fin Borczanowski had a solid game of 13 points, but was in the shadow of Lucai Anderson´s brilliant scoring game. “Fin also did a good job in the tournament. He helped our game a lot with his size, shot and athleticism. He really knew how to read the game well”, commented Dusan Ilic.

pic credit: Ladler-photography

Germany then faced Sweden in the fourth game and won 91-56. After a tight first quarter, Germany then played consistent ball in the last 3 quarters averaging 22 points and allowing only 11 points on the way to a comfortable victory. Germany led by as much as 35 points and won the rebound duel 61-32. They also forced them to 6/37 shooting from outside. “We didn´t start well again and the game was tight at the beginning. But once we found our rhythm, it became easier for us. We played more free and together as a team”, expressed Dusan Ilic. Germany spread the love around with scoring once again totaling 5 players in double figures led by Edoka´s 15 points. Orange Academy big man Felix Kiehlneker had a great game of 12/13. “What I really appreciated about Felix´s game the most is his ability to be able to fight for every ball with his size. He was a very dominant rebounder”, remembered Dusan Ilic. The German domination continued against Japan winning 103-78. After a tight first quarter, Germany then exploded for 62 points in the second and third quarters paving the win. “Japan was a different team to all the others. They were guard dominated and played very fast. We had some problems with their aggressive defense at the start, but we were still able to play our game. We never stopped attacking and always played as a team”, added Dusan Ilic. Germany was led by Caspar Vossenberg with 17 points and had 4 guys score in double figures and won the rebound battle again easily 61-32 with 20 offensive rebounds. Germany was 5-0 and now met Brazil in the semi-finals. Was any one going to stop them? Germany witnessed a tight scoring first half leading 51-50, but stepped it up in the third quarter exploding for 31 points and took it up another notch in the last frame with 39 points winning 121-98. Did Germany make any major adjustments in the second half? “We just got better into a flow in the second half. We then showed how strong our offense could be. We showed that every guy could score and our will to win grew even more. Scoring 70 points is crazy. We really wanted to play for gold and our motivation grew”, stressed Dusan ilic. Anderson and Edoka combined for 47 points as Anderson led all scorers with 26 points. “Lucai is a really good shooter and has a clean shot. He is also really good on on and off ball movement. He always knows when to shoot and when to pass”, said Dusan Ilic. Germany won the rebound battle again 40-24, shot 42% from outside and only coughed up the ball 9 times.

pic credit: Ladler-photography

The final was a close battle against Slovenia. Germany led 46-38 at the break, but in the second half Slovenia led briefly until Germany got the lead back and never looked back despite winning the second half only 41-37. “I think that the difference was that we controlled their guards better. We also played quicker and simply wanted it more than they did. We also knew that if all gave 100%, then we would win gold. Nobody wanted silver”, warned Dusan Ilic. Germany was led by Edoka with 17 points and had 4 guys score in double figures and won the rebound battle again 49-36. ”Our biggest strength in the tournament was playing fast and taking many shots on offense Our ball movement was also good and we were able to punish our opponents so often in the game”, commented Dusan Ilic. After the win, coach Alan Ibrahimagic was greeted with a massive shower in the dressing room. But how did the celebration continue that night? “We had a team dinner. The dinner was relaxed. We were all laughing and having fun. There were no speeches. Most guys left after, but only Anderson and Dopfer stayed to Sunday when they flew back to USA”, stated Dusan Ilic. The German who lists Darius Karatasu and Vazquez Dos Santos of Brazil as players that impressed him most during the tournament had a solid tournament averaging 6/1/3 in 16 minutes per game. “I was content with my game. I feel like I did the most I could of the opportunity that I got. I understood also on what I need to work on which is my shot”, added Dusan Ilic. He played against 6 different nations and against the best youth players on earth which helped his game make another step. “I was able to come to terms with the aggressive defenses of all the countries. I really was able to show what kind of a point guard I can really be. I showed that I could be one of strongest at my position. I learned that every mistake could be punished”, stressed Dusan Ilic. It was the first time that he played for head coach Alan Ibrahimagic and was able to learn so much in such a short time. “It was a really cool experience to play for him. He taught me how to play fast and always be aggressive. If I have an open shot, take it with confidence”, warned Dusan Ilic. The young German will surely have many memories from this glorious week in Mannheim, but this week he is focused most on annoying Orange Academy in the playoffs and lifting his game to another level again.

Giorgos Vovoras Learned From Rick Pitino´s Emotional Kobe Speech That You Can Impact Players Not Only Tactically But Also Mentally And Emotionally

Giorgos Vovoras (agency: Octagon Europe ) is a Greek coach that currently is the coach of the Bahrain national team and a consultant for Bahrain at the 2026 Albert Schweitzer tournament. He has had experience coaching in Greece, Hungary, Lithuania and Cyprus. He gained his most success winning 10 titles with Panathinaikos as an assistant coach. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the game against Germany at the Albert Schweizer tournament in Mannheim.

Thanks Giorgos for talking to germanhoops.com. You hail from Greece and have coached many clubs in Europe as well as Euroleague team Panathinaikos. Now your coaching the Bahrain national team and are a consultant at the U-18 championships at the Albert Schweitzer tournament in Mannheim Germany. This was a different kind of challenge for you. Why did you take this on?

Since June 2025, I have been working in collaboration with the Bahrain national team as the head coach of the senior national team, as well as a consultant for the overall development program of Bahrain basketball. What really motivated me to take on this role was the vision of the federation. I saw a federation that is making a new and ambitious effort, with clear goals and big dreams for the future of basketball in the country. It is a different challenge for me compared to my previous experience in Europe, but at the same time, it is very motivating to be part of something that is being built in a proper and sustainable way. Already, we have seen positive signs. Last year, the U16 national team made important progress, finishing 7th in the Asian tournament, which shows that the program is moving in the right direction and the Bahrain national team also finished in third place at the William Jones Tournament, which is the best result ever achieved by a Gulf country. In addition, we had a very strong performance in the Arab Tournament.

Bahrain is in Asia and not known for it´s basketball. They have a league where ex NBA players play and where there is money. However how much interest is there in basketball in that country?

Basketball in Bahrain is actually considered the national sport, and there is a strong love and passion for the game across the country. From my personal experience, having attended the league finals last year, the arenas were full, and the atmosphere was intense, with great energy and passion for winning. As I mentioned before, there is a serious effort being made to take important steps forward, especially at the national team level, with the goal of establishing Bahrain as a more competitive and respected presence in Asian basketball.

How is the state of youth basketball there? This is Bahrain´s first time playing at AST. Is it a sport that is growing?

The Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim is one of the most prestigious and historic international U18 tournaments, with a long tradition, where many top talents from around the world have competed over the years. For us, participating in this tournament is a very important opportunity to compete at a high level and provide valuable experience to our young players. For us, participating in this tournament is even more important, especially given the current circumstances in the region and the postponement of the Gulf U18 Tournament. The federation recognized this as a valuable opportunity for our players to gain experience at a high-level and globally respected event. Regarding youth basketball in Bahrain, as I mentioned earlier, there is a structured effort to build the development model step by step, with a strong focus on the new generation. We have had the opportunity to include several talented players in the program, who are already showing great progress. At the same time, significant emphasis has been placed on developing competitive leagues at the U16, U18, and U20 levels within Bahrain, which clearly reflects the serious work being done across all age groups.

Please talk about some of the talented players. What players can we look for during the AST?

We have two players with exceptional talent and great potential, Hassan Abdulkhadir and Somto Patrick. At the moment, they are studying and playing in highly competitive high school programs in the United States. I had the opportunity to visit them in February and closely observe their development and the way they are working within these environments. They are part of very strong and demanding programs, and they have already received scholarship offers from top Division I colleges. They also had an excellent performance in last summer’s Asian tournament, which further highlighted their potential. This gives us great confidence and excitement for the future, as we believe they can play an important role in the next generation of Bahrain basketball

Germany has had massive success in men´s basketball the last years winning the World Cup and Euro. They also have had great results at the youth sector. How have you followed the development of the basketball there?

Germany’s recent success in men’s basketball is not something that happened overnight. It is the result of a long-term process that started many years ago, even after the generation led by Dirk Nowitzki, when Germany was already competing at the highest level. In the years that followed, the federation made a clear and strategic investment in youth development. They focused on building a strong development structure, improving coaching education, and creating competitive environments for young players. I believe this has been the key factor behind their current success. Today, Germany has players performing at the highest level, from the NBA to the EuroLeague and top domestic leagues across Europe. This clearly reflects the quality and consistency of the work that has been done over the years. For me, Germany is a great example for other federations. Their model shows how important it is to invest in youth development with a clear plan, patience, and continuity, in order to achieve long-term success.

What do you believe is the secret to Germany´s success in the last years? Is it more than just discipline?

It’s not just discipline. Talent is always present, but the key is the process and consistency. Germany trusted their system, stayed patient, and followed a clear long-term plan — and that’s what led to their success

How tough a game can you await? Is Bahrain the massive underdog or just underdog against Germany?

For Bahrain, this will be our first game against a European team, which makes it a very valuable experience. We expect a tough and physical game against one of the top teams in Europe. However, we believe in our identity and our style of play, and our goal is to compete and challenge ourselves at the highest.

Is there a German player that you feel could be the big attraction at AST?

Germany always brings a very talented group to this tournament, so it’s not about one specific player. Their strength is the overall level of the team — athleticism, discipline, and strong fundamentals. That’s what makes them so competitive year after year.

You have been a coach in Cyprus, Lithuania, Russia and Greece. Talk a little about what kind of a coach you are?

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with top coaches and players at the highest level. These experiences have helped me build my own coaching philosophy. I would describe myself as a coach who tries to adapt to modern basketball. I believe in building teams that are disciplined with defensive mentality, play with intensity at a high pace and understand the game. For me, it’s not only about tactics, but also about creating the right mindset, where players compete, improve every day, and play for each other

You were an assistant coach for many years with Euroleague powerhouse Panathinaikos and won 10 titles. Which title was your favorite?

During my years with Panathinaikos, we won many titles, but there are two that stand out for me, and it’s difficult to choose between them. The first one is the 2012–2013 season, with coach Argyris Pedoulakis. It was the first year after the end of a great era for the club, with a new team built around key Greek players like Dimitris Diamantidis and Kostas Tsartsaris. Despite the challenges and having home-court disadvantage, we managed to win the finals against the reigning EuroLeague champions Olympiacos with a 3–0 series, which made that season truly special. The second title I highlight is the 2016–2017 season, under coach Xavi Pascual. We won the championship against Olympiacos with a 3–2 series, with the decisive Game 5 played away from home. It was a very competitive series, with players like Nick Calathes and Mike James playing key roles. What I will never forget is our return home, where around 30,000 fans were waiting for us to celebrate this title together

What was it like working under legend Rick Pitino. What could you learn from him and what was your coolest story?

It was truly a unique experience to work with a coach like Rick Pitino, who has achieved everything in college basketball and also had a great career in the NBA. What impressed me the most was his passion and love for the game. Every single day, he found motivation not only for himself but also for his players, and he worked with incredible energy and passion in every practice, always driven by the desire to win. For me, every day working with him was an opportunity to learn. The most important thing I took from him is that basketball is not only about tactics. The mental aspect of the game — how you prepare players psychologically for every practice and every game — is equally important. He puts a huge emphasis on this area, and for me, working with him was a great learning experience There are many stories I could share, because he always found ways to inspire the team. But one moment I will never forget was when we learned about the passing of Kobe Bryant. The next day, we had an important league game. Coach Pitino came into the locker room and didn’t talk about the game at all. Instead, he gave an incredible speech about who Kobe was as a person, as a family man, and as an athlete. It was a very emotional moment — almost everyone was deeply moved. When we left the locker room, I asked him how the players would be able to focus after that. He told me, ‘Don’t worry, just watch the first minutes of the game.’ And he was right — we started the game with incredible intensity and focus. For me, this shows how important it is to impact players mentally and emotionally, not just tactically.

You coached so many great players at Panathinaikos. Please name your 3 favorite players?

I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to work with many great players and, more importantly, great people. It’s always difficult to choose, but when you have had the opportunity to work with players like Dimitris Diamantidis, the greatest players in EuroLeague history, Mike James, the all-time leading scorer of the EuroLeague, and Nick Calathes, one of the best passers in the competition, I think the answer speaks for itself. What they have achieved, both individually and with their teams, reflects their quality and consistency at the highest level.

Please name your coaching Mount Rushmore (4 greatest coaches for you)?

If I had to choose my coaching Mount Rushmore, I would say Xavi Pascual, Rick Pitino, Željko Obradovic, and Saras Jasikevicius. Xavi Pascual is one of the best tactical coaches in EuroLeague, and working with him helped me organize my thinking and understand how to prepare a game at the highest level. Rick Pitino taught me that basketball is not only about tactics, but also about the mental aspect and how to motivate players every day. Željko Obradovic is, in my opinion, the greatest European coach, having created his own basketball culture and philosophy over many years. Sarunas Jasikevicius is a coach I have followed closely for many years. What stands out is his ability to adapt, to develop his teams in different environments, and to build a clear playing identity based on modern basketball principles.

Thanks Giorgos for the chat.