NCAA

Chima Oduocha Is A Diamond In The Rough That Developed That Special Work Horse Mentality In JUCO

Chima Oduocha (203-C-1998, college: Columbia, MO, agency: Promo Sport ID) is a 26 year old 203cm that has the American and Nigerian citzenship. This season he played with Pajarraco CB Santfeliuenc (Spain-Segunda FEB) averaging 4,9ppg and 6,4rpg. Last season he balled with Akranes IA (Iceland-Division I) averaging 9.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 2FGP: 61.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 82.4%. He played his rookie season with ABC Santo Andre (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 13.5ppg, 9.7rpg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 78.3%.He began his basketball career at James B. Conant High School. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Harper College (JUCO) averaging 9.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 56.1% and at John Wood Community College (JUCO). He then played 2 seasons at Missouri University of Science and Tech (NCAA2) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.0% and 4.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 50.0%. He finished at Columbia College, MO (NAIA) averaging 14.6ppg, 7.5rpg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.3%

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

Thank you Miles for the interview. I’m currently in Chicago, which is located in the state of Illinois in the United States. But basketball life is treating me well, it’s the game I love so getting to do it at a high level is nothing but a blessing.

After playing a full rookie season, you haven´t played a full season the last 2 seasons. Are you suffering some growing pains as a player at the moment?

My career as a player has gone through its ups and downs, and I see this as part of my development. My rookie season gave me a lot of experience,and despite the last two seasons not being full ones. I’ve continued to improve my game, stay ready, and learn from every situation I was in. Whether it’s adjusting to different roles, or refining my skills, I’m focused on staying prepared and making an impact when I’m on the court. I know that my next opportunity is coming, and when it does, I’m going to make the most of it and show how much I’ve grown as a player and the impact I bring to a game.

You began this season with at Pajarraco CB Santfeliuenc (Spain-Segunda FEB) signing at the end of November. You averaged 4,9ppg and 6,4rpg in 21 minutes. What kind of experience were these 2 months. You only won 1 game out of 10. Did they expect more from you?

It was nice though the club was located just outside of downtown Barcelona. So there was a lot to do outside of basketball as well as, Barcelona has a very rich cultur. So it was exciting to dive into that as I was playing basketball for the club. But in terms of playing I expected more out of myself, I’m a double double guy and I want to go places to create a winning culture. The team ended up going bankrupt and they informed me they couldn’t afford to pay for my work visa so I had to come home, hence why I only played 2 months. It’s sad I wasn’t able to achieve what I know I’m capable of at this club, but I take it more as a learning experience. Experience I intend to use as a sort of chip on my shoulder, for wherever I land next.

Now your preparing for the March Madness Invitational Event. Is your season over now? A Danish team is looking at you. Are you focusing on getting the best possibly opportunity for next season or possibly finish elsewhere this season?

Yeah I’m really excited to attend the March Madness invitational, I see it as sort of a rebrand. I consider myself a “diamond in the rough” and the Handy agency has a way of discovering these types of players such as myself. I´m a underdog but I plan on waking a lot of people up soon. As far as my season I don’t believe it’s over; I would like to finish the season up elsewhere, help a team out in anyway I can. The Danish team that expressed interest is definitely something on my radar as well. I’m focused on finding the best possible opportunity to show people who I really am, which is a hard worker, a great teammate, and a dominant player.

Let´s talk about your game. Your listed as a 203cm center. You are a bit undersized but can score and get rebounds well. What is your biggest strength on the court?

Yeah playing the 4 / 5 positions at 6’8/ 6’9 I found different ways to impact the game outside just my low post scoring or my midrange game. I’m a huge rebounder, offensively and defensively. It’s one of my biggest strengths on the court. A double double is what I aim for every time I step on the court, because I know how much rebounding impacts winning. It’s considered dirty work but I enjoy doing the little things to help my team get that edge.

Are you merely a back to the basket and pick and role player? You hardly shoot the three. Is becoming more of a modern day player a goal?

I’m definitely more than a back to the basket player. I have a midrange game, as well as a mid post game. Haven’t been able to show my ability to shoot the three. But I work on it and have it, just haven’t had the confidence to shoot it as much. Definitely something I’m looking to utilize moving forward, as it’ll add more options to my game..

How would you describe your defensive game? You don´t stand out with steals or blocks in the stats. Do you do many things that the stat sheet don´t get?

I would use a couple of words to describe my defensive game and they would be positioning, effort, and awareness. I pride myself on staying in front of my man, and preventing them from scoring, cutting off driving lanes using my lateral quickness, and switching 1-5. I’m really good at team defense calling out screens and being active in the help, as well as contesting without fouling. I believe the steals and blocks will come, just a matter of timing and continuing to put myself in the right positions to do so.

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

I’ve really been working on shooting the three a lot. Really honing in on the mechanics and having proper follow through on my shots. Being a inside and outside threat is what I believe will make my game most lethal

Last season you balled with Akranes IA (Iceland-Division I) averaging 9.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 2FGP: 61.9%, 3FGP: 66.7%, FT: 82.4%. You were there for only a few months and had a few good games. Why was this stay so short?

I was there for a short time because the team ultimately decided to go in a different direction in terms of the player they wanted. No hard feelings with the club, I’m grateful for the opportunity they gave me in the little time I had.

You played your rookie season with ABC Santo Andre (Portugal-Proliga) averaging 13.5ppg, 9.7rpg, FGP: 56.6%, FT: 78.3%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

My rookie club I will always have love, I grew so much as a person there. My wake up call was when they closed the door at night and I heard nothing but silence outside. I’m from a big city so I wasn’t familiar with a peaceful life, there was always something going on in Chicago. But I thank Santo André for easing my nerves with that and really making me feel like I was a part of a family.

What memories do you have of the tough 3 games playoff series loss to Portimonense? You had a monster game of 24/17 in game 3 but lost 85-79?

Yeah those battles were fond memories I have of my journey, just heartbreaking how it ended. I actually hit the two free throws to send game 3 into overtime. But I fouled out at the start of overtime, and we ended up losing. I couldn’t end my rookie season with the championship, but it taught me a lot about myself and showed me that I belong in this game.

You played at 2 JUCO schools Harper College and John Wood Community College. Every player that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that it was a very tough grind, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded for the world- How was it for you?

Juco was so critical for my development I definitely wouldn’t trade it for the world either. I was a late bloomer, and juco was a opportunity to help me grow and develop. Juco helped me develop a workhorse mentality, nothing is given to you ; so you you have to work even harder to get noticed. Juco is a world where players often have something to prove, me being one of them. Juco basketball built my character. And rewarded me for being willing to outwork everyone. I embraced the grind and developed toughness and work ethic that translated to the next level-not just in basketball, but in life.

You were a NJCAA D2 District XVI Finalist in 2018 with John Wood Community College. What do you remember being so special with that team?

I think what was most special was the love we had for each other, we were a family. That kind of chemistry translated on the court as well. I still speak with some of those guys till this day.

What kind of an impact did Brad Hoyt have on you that season? How did he help you make the next step to the NCAA 2?

He was big in helping me understand what a university would need from you in terms of effort day in and out. He refined my skills and gave me key insights on the more technical side of the game.

You then played at Missouri University of Science and Tech (NCAA2) averaging 6.7ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 77.0% and 4.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 50.0%. Your minutes actually got cut down from 20 to 12 in your last season. What kind of a role did you have there?

My role as Missouri S&T was a rebounder hustle guy, I had good touch around the rim and great rebounding instincts but my role was limited on the team. A role I’m happy I experienced because it shaped how I play today. I know everytime I step on the court I got to give everything, and that’s a mentality I stayed with.

You then took a step back to play at Columbia College, MO (NAIA) averaging 14.6ppg, 7.5rpg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 72.3%. When looking back how important was it making this decision? How did your game grow there?

I don’t think NAIA is a step back, a lot of players from that level played D1 or move on to go play D1 or D2. It’s really underrated in terms of talent. But choosing to play at Columbia College was huge for my development. I went from being a hustle guy to the number 1 option. I had a team depending on me producing night in and out, and I didn’t take that lightly. Columbia helped with my confidence and expectations in the terms of output needed to impact winning; Columbia opened my eyes on what turns a good player to a great player. As an import at the pro level, a lot of these things I still use today.

You reached the AMC final. How tough was the 66-65 loss to MBU? Is that a game that you couldn´t forget so easily?

Yeah, that game was really tough. Our opponent MBU was the host so they were essentially playing a home game in a sold out arena. Definitely a game that was hard to forget and we lost on a buzzer beater. I sometimes reminisce about what could’ve been. But you learn and move on.

How did head coach Tomas Brock groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Brock prepared me mentally. He held me to a high standard, pushing me to stay locked in through adversity, fatigue, and pressure situations. He also taught me about professionalism-how to take care of my body, study film, and approach the game like a job. Really just changed my mindset, so I’m forever grateful to him for that.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Mitch Fairless?

Funny part is Mitch never wanted to play 1 on 1 against me, I was a hard person to guard my teammates have always told me.

Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA?

Toughest person I’ve battled was honestly a couple people, both Alex Stein as well as Brodic Thomas. Broderick playing for the Boston Celtics and Alex playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as their G League affiliate.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I would say Aziz Fadika (Juco), Troy Burrows (Juco), Keith Carter (Pro liga MVP), Tyler Henry (Spain), and Kevin Legardy ( College)

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Alright in no order

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Micheal Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, and Magic Johnson

Who is your Goat?

I know I’m going to get a lot of hate for this but LeBron is my GOAT. Just what he’s been able to do for the game and for this long, we’ll never see anyone like that again. I know the old heads don’t want to hear that though ??

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

Actually I haven’t seen the sequel, but that’s because I think they should have left it alone. The movie ended just fine, but now I might check it out if you recommend it. I love coming to America.

Thanks Chima for the chat.

Undersized Guard Armani Chaney Has Always Seen His Size As An Advantage And Is Looking To Get Overseas Again Via Mexico

Armani Chaney (178-PG-1997, college: Tennessee St.) is a 26 year old 178cm point guard from Chicago that has been a professional player since 2019. This season he played with Astros de Jalisco (Mexico-LNBP) averaging 14/2/3/1 and began the season with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) averaging 24.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 39.4%, FT: 88.6%. He played most of his career in North America with teams like the Kokomo Bobkats (TBL), Chicago Fury (ABA), Newfoundland Rogues (Canada-BSL) and the Medora Timberjacks (TBL). He also got experience playing with MC El Brasil Santa Ana (El Salvador-Liga MB, starting five): Clausura: 17 games: Score-4 (28.8ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-3 (7.1apg), 2.2spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 68.8%. He began his basketball career with St Rita High School and then played at Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 108 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am currently playing with the Astros De Jalisco in the Ciba Copa. Basketball life right now is pretty fun, but yet the same grind.

It took you 6 years to get overseas. You mostly played in the States, Canada and El Salvador. Why didn´t you come overseas sooner or were you content with where you were playing, or was your size always a factor?

The time I took off was predicated on my children’s growth and just wanting to stay home and being there for them. Mainly playing Semi Pro, El Salvador, and Canada really molded me into the player I am now. Size was always an advantage in my eyes, I never really felt it hindered me to achieve anything I wanted.

You had a solid NCAA career at Tennessee State (NCAA) and put up the kind of stats that would have gotten you overseas and in high leagues. How big is the chip on your shoulder?

The chip on my shoulder has always been big, just understanding at an early age, that tough environments make you have to go out and earn respect because in Chicago, they won’t give it to you.!

You had an incredible short season in Austria. What were the reasons for leaving? Were you the scapegoat for the losing?

Austria was a learning experience and i appreciate everybody that I met there. I think myself and the organization viewed winning differently, but I still cherish those relationships, Kapfenberg bulls are a really good organization with a lot of history.

The team lost 7 of 16 games with 3 or less points. I mean how unlucky can a team be. Have you ever experienced losing so many close games in crunch-time?

Yes, I’ve experienced a lot of seasons where most games are close, but it’s always unlucky to be on the other side of winning.

You were a walking bucket averaging 24.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3FGP: 39.4%, FT: 88.6%. What did you enjoy most about playing in the Austrian BSL?

I believe I was just excited and grateful to be in Europe playing basketball at a high level. Understanding the road I took to get there, but never really being stagnant or content with my results. So I would say the experience just gave me a different outlook on life and basketball!

Now you playing with Astros de Jalisco (Mexico-LNBP). Your have high profile teammates with an ex NBA player and guys who have played at high levels in Europe like Tre McCallum and Jerai Grant. What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

I’m just happy to be apart of a winning culture and another great organization. But truthfully all of us are deserving and just understands what it takes to win basketball games. Obviously the experience they have is very vital to our success but we are mostly like brothers, we’re creating our own experiences everyday.

Your holding your own averaging 14/1/2. Your game seems to fit this league. How has your game profited from having such talented players?

Well i think when you are being challenged everyday to not only be selfless but trust your teammates more and more, it becomes you. Our coaches do a great job with making everyone feel equal so we don’t experience egos or the normal adversity teams seem to go through. As for myself, I think my best brand of basketball is playing with more talented players around me, I believe it shows my best attributes with being a point guard.

You played 2 seasons with the Newfoundland Rogues (NBL Canada) averaging 32.1ppg, 7.1rpg, 6.5apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 91.1% 30.3ppg), 6.4rpg, Assists-1 (7.8apg), Steals-3 (1.6spg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 87.8%. You were an absolute walking bucket. Did sometimes feel like being a man playing with boys?

You know in the moment I didn’t really realize how blessed I was to be able to do the things I was actually doing. But now that I look back, sometimes it’s shocking just understanding the circumstances I was up against. But it’s just a pillar of me going harder and trying to reach my full potential every season.

In your first season you had 3 40 plus scoring games and a triple double. What was your fondest moment on the court that season?

My main goal my first season was to be consistent as possible, because that was something I battled with in college. But I would say it’s probably most of the games when I would play bad and then deliver for my team at the end! Those moments built character. Also playing for Coach Williams he gave me a lot of confidence.

In your second season you had 6 40 plus point games including a 52 point game, 2 triple doubles and a 20 assist game. What was your fondest moment that season?

The goal my second season was to win in all facets. I wanted to show that what I did my first season wasn’t a fluke, and do all I could to help my teammates better. I feel I was a better leader my second year there. But the best moment of the season was when we won 4 out of our last 6 games to make the playoffs.

You were toiling in the ABA and TBL in your first 3 seasons after the NCAA. How tough were these 3 years? Did you have a day job?

Actually I didn’t work I was in a situation where certain family, and people believed in me. Everyday was basketball. I actually wouldn’t be here without my Fury Coaches ( Reece and Big Mike) also the trainer I had at the time Stef Hannah ( Ex NBA).

You got your first gig outside the States with MC El Brasil Santa Ana (El Salvador-Liga MB) averaging 28.8ppg), 6.3rpg, Assists-3 (7.1apg), 2.2spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 68.8%. What memories do you have of El Salvador? You were a walking bucket and filled the stat sheet like a Russell Westbrook.

El Salvador was my first job, so I didn’t really have to many expectations on myself other than handle my business like a pro. I almost didn’t think I deserved to be a pro, but I kept with my faith and just stayed grateful to be playing basketball again.

You played at Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2015-2019 playing a total of 108 NCAA games. Your minutes rose drastically in your last 2 seasons. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons?

I think more confidence assembled into playing more and being more of an asset on the court than a liability. Coach Russ actually helped me improve my jump shot drastically my senior year. That is the reason I’m doing the things I can do now.

In your second season you lost to NCAA powerhouse Duke 65-55 and battled guys like Jayson Tatum, Grayson Allen and Luke Kennard. What memories do you have of that defensive battle?

I actually played against Tatum in high school so that was a cool experience to play him again at that point of his career. But I just remember those guys being very physical and tough.

How did Dana Ford and Brian Collins groom and prepare you for a professional career?

I think Coach Ford just showed me what it meant to be deserving, you know do all the little things right and reap rewards from it. Coach Collins was more of a people person so we mainly had talks about life without basketball and how to attack the world outside of sports.

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

Haha, me and Mikey always competed in practice. Mainly on the same team though, but he was a great player and we definitely helped each other elevate our game.

Who is the best player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

I would say Ja Morant, just solely on the way he controlled a game and kept his teammates engaged. But Tahjere McCall was the toughest player I had to play against everyday in practice.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Tripp Davis

Alondre Pickens

Charles Matthews

Tahjere McCall

Luwane Pipkins

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James

Steph Curry

Kyrie Irving

Derrick Rose

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron james

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

I think it was a great spinoff after all these years. Great movie.

Thanks Armani for the chat

Oshane Drews Credits The Rostock Seawolves Underdog Mentality As The Reason They Have Gotten So Far This Season

Pic credit: Darius Baumgart

Oshane Drews (198-SG-2001) is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing his second professional season with the Rostock SeaWolves. He began his basketball career at RSV Stahnsdorf and then played 2 years with the Junior Loewen Braunschweig (NBBL) and SG Braunschweig (2.Regionalliga). He then played 2 seasosn with the Dragons Rhondorf and then made the next step to the Uni Baskets Paderborn (PRO A). He came to the Rostock Seawolves in 2023. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a game against the Frankfurt Skyliners.

Congrats on the big 84-68 win in Vechta. Is every game now like a do or die game?

We want to win every game. Every game counts now. We don´t go easy into games. We still see ourselves as the underdog. That is the reason why we have come so far this season.

Rostock had the slim 18-15 lead after one quarter. In the second quarter, Rostock exploded for 31 points. What was the focus going into the second quarter?

We changed our defensive sets a lot. It took us a while to get it going in the first quarter. We defended better in the second quarter and they didn´t adjust well.

Everything was clicking with many guys getting involved. Was that one of the best offensive quarters this season?

I think it was one of the best this season. We are a defensive orientated team, but I feel like we have have improved a lot on offense.

Malik Osborne and Pedro Bradshaw were huge. How vital have they been for the success?

It is never easy for a player to come in the middle of the season. You have to understand your role quickly. With Bradshaw we got a player who is great off ball and Osborne is a very strong offensive player that has helped us a lot on offense now.

Rostock managed the lead well in the second half. Did the defensive intensity lose some steam in the second half with such a comfortable lead?

We lost a little concentration with our different defensive sets and switches. They also adjusted well.

Johan Grunloh had a strong game with 14/10. Will he go to the NBA or possibly go to the NCAA?

I think college is out. He will get drafted and then play in the NBA

Frankfurt has a 2 game winning streak. Rostock easily won in Rostock 83-66. What will be key to getting the win on the road?

Both have new teams and both have had runs. We can´t underestimate them only because they are lower in the standings. We will come in motivated. We need the win. The team that wants it more will win.

Your playing your second season for the Rostock Seawolves. Has Rostock become like a second home?

What I really like about Rostock is that is near to my home Berlin. If we hadn´t come back so late from Vechta and I hadn´t slept so late, I would have returned home on my off day.

How exciting is the easyCredit BBL this season? Between position 3 and 14 is only a 2 win difference. Will Rostock make the playoffs this season?

Our goal are the playoffs. I feel like that if we keep playing the way we are now, we will reach it.

The team began 4-8 and then after Christmas won 6 of 7 games. What were the reasons for the team picking up their game?

We had a crisis meeting after the bad start. We changed the team a bit as well as our tactics. We understood what we needed to do to execute the game plan the right way and be successful. The new players and underdog mentality has been key in our success.

How vital has head coach Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz been for the success of the team? What have you enjoyed most about his teaching philosophy?

We had many injuries and our game plan changed a lot. Coach knew how to make the right adjustments and kept the offense and defense flexible.

What has it been like being teammates with American Bryce Hamilton? How valuable has he been to the success?

Bryce is a great player and our offensive leader. You can give him the ball and he will do his thing.

Is Robin Amaize like a role model for you? What is the most important thing that you have soaked up from his game?

He is also a super player. He plays different than Americans do. What I try to do is take things I like from players and try to incorporate it into my game. I like his mentality and IQ. I try to soak that up from his game.

Your averaging 5 minutes per game, 1 minute more than last season. How tough is it in general finding minutes with this stocked BBL roster?

It is difficult to get minutes. I wasn´t even planned to be on the team. But I stayed and have gotten my chances. I just will keep working hard and earn minutes.

How tough is it being as efficient as possible? Do you sometimes let your defense make noise letting it spark your offense?

Yes I do. I always want to get into the game with my defense. It is tough to do something on offense with little touches. I think that I could do more on offense. The problem is when I come in, I try not to make mistakes. That mentality leads me too think twice during decision time. The BBL is so quick that you need to decide quicker. That second thought often leads to my option being gone.

Thanks Oshane for the chat.

Christian Hinckson(BG Hessing Leitershofen) Is A Swiss Army Knife That Wants To Grow Into A 2 Way Player

Christian Hinckson (201-G-1999, college: Binghamton) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Queens, New York playing his second professional season overseas with BG Hessing Leitershofen (Pro B). Last season he played his rookie season with Starlites GIG (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 13.1ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 81.3%He began his career at John Bowne high school and also gained experience at Tilton Prep school. He began his college career at Manhattan College (NCAA) averaging 3.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.0apg and 7.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 35.2%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 72.1%. He then moved on to Binghamton University (NCAA) averaging 3.1ppg, 3.4rp, 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Christian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Germany with BG Leitershofen. What kind of an experience has it been and what do you appreciate most about the opportunity?

My first year in Germany has been a great experience so far, I am enjoying my time out here and love it. What I appreciate the most is that I’m able to play basketball everyday as my career and to showcase my talents in a well- respected market.

The club is in it´s third Pro B season and finished 9 and 11ththe last 2 seasons. This season the team is battling the RheinStars for the top spot. What has been the secret to the success?

Buying into the culture and embracing roles has been a secret to our success. It’s a fun brand of basketball we play and we have great players that compliments our run and gun style of play.

The team scores a lot of points with 93 per game, but also defend very well allowing 77 points per game. What is the team´s biggest strength on defense?

Our defensive versatility and aggressive style of play is our biggest strength on defensive. We have guards/wings who pressure the ball well and our bigs are athletic and agile so we can guard multiple positions with different matchups.

Leitershofen split with the RheinStars this season and the 2 games were decided by not more than 7 points. How hungry is the team to win the pro B South and be better than last season´s finalist?

We are really hungry, our as coach Richie would say we need “Saliva” meaning to be the hunters and killers as we perform. Our goal is to move up to Pro A so we are doing whatever it takes to make it there.

Your averaging 8/3/2/1 stats and shooting 36% from outside. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role on the team is to use my versatility on both ends to make plays. Defending, scoring, play-making anything that can be done to help the team win I do.

You were efficient in the NCAA. Your showing this season that your efficient. Did you develop that in the NCAA?

Yes the NCAA most definitely has helped my efficiency. Playing division 1 basketball humbled me and made me realize at every level there are roles on each team, so being efficient in your role and time played is very important.

Talk a little about the big man combo of Elias Marei and Ferenc Gille? How do they compliment each other best and what do you appreciate most about their games?

Elias and Ferenc have done plenty of good this season for our team. They do a great job being vocal on the defensive end and rim running in transition. What I appreciate the most about their games is their motors and how hard they play. Every game for sure you know you will get 100% effort out of them.

How valuable is in being teammates with fellow American rookie Asa Williams He played at 3 JUCO schools. Do you feel that chip on his shoulder??

Asa has made my journey here in Germany much easier. Coming from America, we had a few mutual friends prior to knowing each other and are able to relate. He’s also my roommate so we spend a lot of time together off the court. Without a doubt I feel that chip on his shoulder, he is a fierce competitor and we speak about it all the time about how much this opportunity means to him and the adversity he has faced playing basketball. He is having a special season, breaking records etc. and I’m rooting for him and his success.

How valuable is Dragos Dickulescu? Is he the motor of the team?

Dragos is extremely valuable to our team and has been our go to guy. He’s a very smart player and is talented. He has been a great leader and motor for us and his resume as a pro speaks for itself.

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

I was told by prior teammates I play like Khris Middleton or Kawhi Leonard but I’ve never been able to compare myself.

You have always been a guy that can fill the stat sheet well. Would you call yourself a Swiss army knife? Your game reminds me a bit of Pro A player Cam Henry of Kirchheim.

I would definitely call myself a Swiss Army knife! Versatility has been my game for most of my life and I have played several different positions all throughout my career. I do not know of Cam, but I’m interested to look up his highlights now

Your shooting the three pointer very well at the moment. What do you still have to do to make the next step as a shooter?

To make the next step as a shooter I would love to start taking and making deeper shots.

How would you describe your defensive game? You were a star defender in college. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I would say I am a smart and versatile defender. I know how to use my physical gifts to my advantage. I know I am a pretty good defender but there is still room for growth for me in every aspect of defensive. I want to be known as a two way player.

You played at Manhattan college from 2018-2020. What kind of an experience was that for you? You made a big increase of minutes to 13 more in your second season.

I enjoyed my time at Manhattan college and played a different style of basketball than I was used to. My first few year I got used to the speed and physicality of the college game. The year after that my minutes increased because I had a productive summer and worked on my weaknesses.

You had some big games at Manhattan including 16 points in a 57-53 win over Fairfield. What was your fondest moment there?

My fondest moment at Manhattan was off the court. The bond I built with my teammates was like no other and I still keep in touch with most of them.

You then played at Binghamton University (NCAA) from 2020-2023 averaging 7.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 75.9% and 6.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 71.4%. What memories do you have of these 3 years? You scored 20 points in a 81-79 win over Columbia.

What was most memorable through those years was the atmosphere we played in. Loved playing in front of about 2 to 4 thousand people every home game.

How did head coach Lavell Sanders who played 14 years in the Czech Republic groom and prepare you for a professional career?

Coach Sanders helped me a lot and I am thankful for him. He prepared me for Europe by teaching me a lot of the terminology and reads I see here in Germany and simplified my game a lot. It was an honor learning from him since he was once a professional and knows the ins and outs of the European game.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Miles Gibson?

Miles and I had many battles 1-1, I would say it’s an even split.

Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?

Ex teammate Hamidou Diallo

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

There are too many to name.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James

Michael Jordan

Kevin Durant

Kobe Bryant

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

Haha I may get some hate for this but I have never seen the sequel. I watched the first one and it was great but had no idea there was a sequel.

Thanks Christian for the chat.

The NBA Offense Style At Florida International Has Helped Tevin Brewer(with Kipina Aanekoski ) Average 10 Assists Per Game As A Rookie Overseas

Tevin Brewer (173-PG-1999, college: Duquesne) is a 173cm guard from Arkansas that played his rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A) averaging 29,3ppg,4,6rpg, 10,1apg and 2,2spg. He began his basketball career with Northside high school. He then played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. he then played 3 years at Florida International University (NCAA) averaging 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.9%, 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 76.7% in his second season and 15.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.6apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 82.9% in his last season. He then finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

You’re playing your rookie season with Kipina Aanekoski (Finland-1st Division A). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about being in Finland?

Finland has been a different experience. They play more physical over here and don’t give you a lot of calls that you are used to getting in the states. But how they move the ball and shoot a lot of threes I´m very used to it. I think I have enjoyed learning how they play basketball over here adapting to their style of basketball this year.

You had to pay your dues in college playing 2 years in JUCO, but then had a solid NCAA career at 2 different schools. Now you’re paying your dues again. How big is the chip on your shoulder and how do you cope with it?

There always a chip on my shoulder. Everybody thinks I’m too small but I played at the highest levels in high school and college so I always had the confidence and know I could excel playing basketball. The way I cope with is by working hard and knowing I put in the work that most people don’t put in and it will always show.

How big of a challenge has it been being a basketball player at 173cm? Is your heart bigger than most players out there?

I don’t think it’s a challenge for me because I know I out work a lot of people. I definitely have the biggest heart and some the best IQ in the game.

Your averaging 29/4/10/2 stats. How content have you been with your game? What was the biggest adjustment coming overseas for you?

I feel like this a great start to my career but I’m not content I feel like I could shoot even better then what I have been and it showed last game in my eyes im 45-50% from the three point line. The biggest adjustment is just how physical they let us play. Some calls I don’t get that I usually would.

How cool has it been being reunited with ex NCAA teammate Victor Hart? Are you guys like brothers?

I think it was great to reunite with my teammate. I knew he would be a great fit playing with me because he is versatile and I know with my playmaking abilities I could give him the ball where he likes to get his shot and help him excel.

Let´s talk about your game? You’re a 173cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would make the best description?

I think I would compare my game to Trae Young and Darius Garland the way they get their teammates involved and make the game easier for them. Also how good I shoot the ball like them and have a floater that makes them and me be a 3 level scorer.

You almost averaged 6,0apg one season in the NCAA and averaged10,0apg as a rookie. Do you feel your playmaking will continue to develop as you move up to higher leagues?

Yea I always feel like I have been a great passer and love making the game easier for my teammates so I feel more and more people real recognize my playmaking ability.

You are an above average three point shooter. You shot 40% one season in the NCAA and doing it as a pro. How vital is your three pointer in your game?

I feel like this a very important to my game because teams can´t leave me open on the perimeter or go under the ball screen when I have the ball. I don’t need much space so teams try to take away the space for the shot so that makes it easier to use my quickness to get my floater or layup.

You’re also a very aggressive defender. Where do you see yourself as a defender in your development? Where do you still want to go with your defensive game in the next years?

I feel like my defense is underrated. I don’t get beat off the dribble maybe once or twice during the game. I also read passing lanes and kind of anticipate where the ball is going next. I average two steals this year I see that part of my game getting even stronger in the future. I think I could’ve had more steals this year so I’m definitely going to improve on all steals and passing lane steals in the years to come.

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

The area of my game I’m working on the most will be my strength continue to get my body stronger and that will help me more aggresive on defense and my shot making ability you will always have a job if you shoot the ball well so I will work on this most to stay consistent and be dangerous.

You played at 2 JUCO schools Eastern Oklahoma State College averaging 27.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 80.5% and at Coffeyville Community College averaging 11.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 92.2%. Every guy I interviewed that played JUCO said it was a grind, but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was definitely a grind especially at my first school Eastern. Coffeyville I loved it I played most with my friends in AAU and we were winning almost every game by 15-20 plus points and were top 5 all year so yea I´m glad I was a part of the JUCO grind.

What memories do you have of the Final 4 run with Coffeyville Community College? What was so special about that team?

Just enjoying the process with my teammates and friends. We all bonded together and that was what made us so good on the court. We played defense at a high level and could shoot the ball and run with any team we played that year. We went 31 -4 and did 5 out 5 in my number went down but the team was so good I didn’t have to score so much.

You played 3 years at Florida International (NCAA) improving your scoring each season. How did your game grow under Jeremy Ballard?

We played NBA Style offense so it helped me understand the ball screen read which slows the game for me and helped my playmaking ability grow. This offense is the reason I feel I’m averaging 10 assists my rookie year.

You finished at the University of Duquesne (NCAA) averaging 7.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 73.3%. You played your first game against NCAA powerhouse Kentucky playing 14 minutes. What memories will you have playing against this top school and what Wild Cat player do you remember impressing you the most?

I really was not supposed to play this game because I got sick 3-4 weeks before and was in the hospital with appendicitis. But I wanted to just experience Rupp arena and playing against a legendary coach. Antonio Reeves was a player who impressed me the most with his shooting ability.

How did your game grow in your last NCAA season under former professional player Dru Joyce. Him being a ex guard must of helped your game?

He was a real defensive minded coach so he always was hard on me about staying engaged on defense and just growing as leader.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Dae Dae Grant?

We really didn’t play 1-1 in college but he always made me better and I always made him better.

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

I got a couple but I would have to say Trae Young, Malik Monk and Michael Porter jr were the best I ever faced.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Shai Gilgeous Alexander, Dae Dae grant, Isaiah joe, Daniel Gafford, Jimmy tre Clark

What is your personal NBA mount Rushmore of past or present heads?

Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Shaq

Who is your GOAT and why?

I would say Michael Jordan. HIs dominance in the game I feel like no one has come close to his killer mentality besides Kobe.

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

I have seen the second movie but I definitely feel like they should’ve left it alone too much of classic and the made the second one too late.

Thanks Tevin for the chat.

It Doesn´t Matter Who D´Monte Brown(BG Aschersleben Tigers) Is Playing Against As He Always Wants The Challenge Like Kobe Bryant

D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston) is a 193cm guard from Petersburg, Virginia who played his rookie season overseas with the BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 24,6ppg, 11,2rpg, 3,8apg, 2,9spg and 1,0bpg. He began his basketball career at Petersburg High School. He then played at 3 schools starting with Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. He then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7% and then played 2 years at Langston University, OK (NAIIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%.He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

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

I am currently in Aschersleben, Germany Basketball is really treating me pretty good Trying to get a feel for overseas basketball definitely had some struggles from the start. But I am the top leading scorer in the league right now. I held the number one spot for four weeks averaging a double double and averaging 10 rebounds a game. I also was nominated to win player of the year this year. I´m ranked number five in the league and rebounds and ranked top 10 in scoring in the league Ranked number seven and steals in the league Ranked number two VAL in the league 7x double doubles in the season.

How blessed do you feel to be playing overseas? One doesn´t often see NAIA guys making it overseas?

It’s a real blessing to be able to play overseas since there are over 1 million around the world and college students in the United States, so getting a full roster for an overseas team is the toughest thing you can think about. Getting a contract is definitely a disturbing moment in your mind, but I always felt like I was chosen.

Your playing your rookie season for BG Aschersleben (Regionalliga) What kind of an experience has it been? What have you enjoyed most about the basketball experience?

Yes, this is my rookie season, but I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder that says I’m not a rookie, I’m a pro. The best part was seeing different players from different countries and the fans treating you like a superstar.

What have you appreciated most about the culture and landscape of Germany?

Nice city Berlin.

Has the Regionalliga been like starting over as if you were in JUCO again?

Not really JUCO is really tough the hardest thing that you can play is Juco.

Aschersleben hasn´t had the best season. How have you experienced the season? I guess it´s hard to win when you make 73 points per game and allow 95?

While it’s not the best season in the world, winning it takes time and three years of experience with a group of guys, so this year we have a lot of new players working together for the first time.

Aschersleben have 2 lethal scorers with you and Braimoh and a sold scorer with Yannick Von Hain and that’s it. Is there simply too little scoring power to win?

Teams always try to have a scout report ready to stop me, but I tell my teammates to keep their guard up because all the pressures on me will pass to them. It is clear that we have players on our team who are capable of scoring more, but they just need to have confidence and step up when it is time.

What has it been like being teammates with Dion Braimoh? Do you guys share the keys to the team?

We both have ups and downs on the court, but we find a way to be together. I’ve never been on a team where a guy next to me averaged 20. Points Together

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

Mentality to crash the boards to grab rebounds like a Russell Westbrook, have swag on the court and confidence on the court something like Dwyane Wade. I don’t care who I am playing against I don’t care if the best player on the other team is a 7’0 power forward I want the challenge like Kobe Bryant.

You’re a 193cm guard that can fill the stat sheet with ease. What is your biggest strength on the court?

There is no tomorrow mentality, high vertical jump which is required for defense contesting shots, stealing passes rebounding at both ends of the court and shooting to elevate shots over a defender.

You have always been a great rebounder for your size. What is your secret to getting many rebounds?

I have always been a great rebounder because I did a lot of studying on Russell Westbrook always wanting to play just like him mentality go hard for more and his energy.

How would you describe yourself as a defender at the moment? Where do you still want to go with your game?

I describe myself always been a tough difficult defender and always had that mentality that I got anybody point guard through center.

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

Probably shooting the three-shot.

You played at 2 JUCO schools that is rare. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that the grind was difficult but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

I agree playing JUCO. The talent was so amazing something like the NBA but different. I think it´s so competitive it’s because everybody is trying to get to a four-year college and it’s not no guaranteed.

You played 2 seasons at Garrett College (JUCO) averaging 13.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 90.2% and 20.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 3.5apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.9%. You reached the JUCO final in 2021. What memories do you have of that run?

The memories that I can share with you was I hit a game winner with the shot to go to the final four.

How vital was head coach Dennis Gibson in helping you mature of high school to JUCO in the 2 years that you were there?

Yes, Dennis Gibson was always tough coaching me and he believed in me off and on the court.

You then played a season at Miami Dade College (JUCO) averaging 16.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 82.7%. Why did you take an extra JUCO year? Were you not ready for the next step then?

I took another year because I always wanted to play in Miami Florida.

You then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 74.0% and 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 75.0%. You won 2 SAC titles. Which one was sweeter?

It was definitely my first year at Langston University before I got there they only won one game 1-25 I came in and changed everything around At Langston University 66-5 Record – Back-to-Back Conference Champions – Back-to-Back Conference Tournament Champions – Ranked #2 and #3 in the country – History’s biggest college sports turnaround -4x rings& regular season champs conference champs running up and also played in a national championship team.. The best HBCU school in the world went 25-0.

In your senior year you reached the NAIA Final 4. You lost a tough game to FHU 61-57. What memories will you always have from that game?

We lost the game 45 seconds to go in the game and we was up by seven. We had four turnovers in 10 seconds then lost the game.

How did head coach Chris Wright groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

As a coach, he has always been tough and always made everything difficult for me, telling me to take everything seriously and not think of the next day shot.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Toru Dean?

Me of course he is too small for me but it will be a close game..

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

Frank Mason

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I don’t have a 5, but have more than that Anthony Roy Toru Dean Cortez Mosley Malik Whitaker Cameron Selders Robel Desta David Blanc

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James,Russell Westbrook James Harden,Michael Jordan

Who is your GOAT?

DMONTE BROWN “

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

I don’t have no answer for that.

Thanks D´monte for the chat.

It´s Not Cody Or Steph But Simply Duke Deen As He Is Looking To Make An Impact With The Skyliners In The Stretch Run

Pic credit: Bradley University

Even if the Frankfurt Skyliners won´t make the playoffs this season, they still want to close out the season with as many wins as possible. On account of an injury to rookie and ex Wright State guard Trey Calvin, they got active on the transfer market one last time and signed rookie Cody Deen. The odds will be very good that no one will ever call him Cody. Everybody calls him Duke and that has been like that his whole life. But seriously how could one even take the name Cody over Duke? “My dad would call me, ‘Dude,’ all the time, “A teacher heard it and thought he said Duke. People started calling me Duke and that was it, I’ve been Duke my whole life. I tell people, ‘Just call me Duke, stated Duke Deen (173-PG-2001) to the Journal Star”. I can already imagine how enthusiastic Skyliners MOC Mark Geberth-Hindermayer will yell Duke for the first time when he makes his home debut against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg next week. But who knows, if he starts making many three´s for the Frankfurt Skyliners and very very tough and crazy shots, fans might have a new name for him. “Duke is a shorter version of Steph Curry. He is a great three point shooter, makes the really tough shots and moves very well without the ball”, stressed Bradley (NCAA) special assistant to the head coach Pat Althof.

Duke Deen was born on December 17th, 2001 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He played football and baseball as a kid, but began to play basketball at age 5 and fell in love with the game. He played 2 seasons at Bossier high school and led the school to the 3A state title in 2020 averaging 15,5ppg, 4,0apg and 3,0rpg. He had to fight adversary right away and had to pay his dues in Juco playing with Panola College averaging 20.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 41.6%, FT: 86.0%. He was ranked 19th in scoring and 47th in assists in the country. It is no surprise that he has had a chip on his shoulder his whole life. “Duke has never had an issue with his height. He always has found ways to get around it. Of course he has a chip on his shoulders, but he will always compete and make winning plays”, stressed Pat Althof. After his strong JUCO season, he was rewarded with his first NCAA gig playing at Troy averaging 9.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 82.3%. He made an impact right away winning the All-Sun Belt Freshman of the Year award. He displayed his winning mentality helping the team to 20 wins which was the team best league mark in 12 years. He scored in double figures in 16 games including 20 points against JSU and 17 points apiece against UT Martin and FAU.

He then made one more move and joined Bradley (NCAA) and played 3 seasons there playing a total of 79 games. In his first season he averaged 7.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 35.0%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 76.5%. He scored in double figures 3 times including games of 18 and 11 points against UNI. His game really took off in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 13/3/3 stats in 72 games. He scored in double figures in 54 games including monster games against Missouri State with 35 points and 31 points against Indiana State. 2 seasons ago he led Bradley into the NIT Sweet 16 and last week into the NIT Elite 8 losing a heartbreaker to Chattanooga 69-67 where he scored 13 points, and had 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. “Both runs were great. He was a big leader and a big part of the team. He took many big shots. It was really tough losing to Chattanooga. Duke hit a big shot to tie the game, but they then came back and hit the shot to win the game”, remembered Pat Althof. Deen had so many great games at Bradley (NCAA) in his 3 year career, but was there one that stood out most to Althof? “He had a number of big games that I will always remember. I remember him hitting 9 three´s against Missouri State and many game winners. I will always remember his game winner against UIC”, commented Pat Althof.

So what kind of player will German basketball fans witness from Duke Deen and what is his biggest strength? “He is a great three point shooter that will shoot from all over the court and from different angles. He is also a great leader and teammate that will always get all involved and try to help the program as much as possible”, stated Pat Althof. The Skyliners hopes that Deen´s three point shooting will leave a mark right away. He made massive strides in his shooting at Bradley. In his first season he was only at 28%, but in his last 2 years shot 38% and 39%. “His shooting has improved because Duke put in the continuous work. He was in the gym each morning and after practice and got more shots up. It was just continuous work that showed in the games”, expressed Pat Althof. He can also make an impact on the defensive end as he improved greatly at Bradley. “He worked very hard in the gym to get stronger. He became a very good defender being able to use his quickness. Nobody was picking on him in the zone”, warned Pat Althof. A hidden strength of his is moving without the ball and getting around screens and using the angles right, but there is one thing that he is working on most as he learns to adapt to the pro game overseas. “He was always a good passer, but he is working hard to keep growing as a facilitator. When you’re a small guard, you have to be able to score and pass the ball”, warned Pat Althoff. The Frankfurt Skyliners have 9 games left and Duke Deen will get enough opportunities to shine. Will his winning ways rub off on the Skyliners who are in 16th place? “ Duke is 100% motivated. He is coming from a winning culture and he wants to win a lot of games. He has a great personality and will be good with the fans and coaches. He will bring a lot of value to the Skyliners”, stated Pat Althof. A big luxury for the Skyliner players is that their training facility and office is situated in a big mall in Frankfurt. “I will always remember how Duke would always ask his teammates if they wanted to get a bite to eat. He would drive them there. He was always there for his teammates”, warned Pat Althof. Being there for his teammates will most likely continue in Frankfurt, but perhaps in the first few days, his Skyliner teammates will show him the best places to eat in the mall.

Sidney Brown Has The Self Confidence Now To Reach 50 Or 60 Points After Ending His First Season Overseas In Germany Hitting For 48 Points

Sidney Brown (177-PG-1999, college: Albright) is a 25 year old 177cm point guard from New Jersey that just completed his first season overseas with SG MTV/BG Wolfenbuettel (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 25/5/5/4. He began his basketball career with Winslow Township High School. He then played at Albright College (NCAA3) from 2017 to 2022 playing a total of 99 games and as a senior averaged 15.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.2apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 85.3%. He then got experience playing semi pro ball in the States with the Atlantic City Gambits (TBL), Albany Patroons (TBL) and Tri-State Admirals (TBL). He spoke to germanhoops.com after finishing his season in Germany scoring an incredible 48 points.

Thanks Sidney for talking to germanhoops.com You just ended your first season overseas with a tough 122-101 loss. You scored a season high 48 points. Could you enjoy it in any way despite the loss?

Yes and no, it’s always good to achieve a new season high but as a competitor you always want it to contribute to a win. We were unfortunately short handed that game, missing three important players, and also for a good portion of the season we were without two other important players as well. With them I do believe that game and the season goes differently for us.

Is this the most points that you ever made in a game in your life?

In a game with true stats yes this is, I do strive to one day to get more.

You had a huge season and huge games this season, but saved your best for last. How did you feel coming into your last game? Did you eat anything different or special or prepare differently for this game?

Honestly I did my same routine, from breakfast to shoot around. I did feel I was going to have a bad game initially in the shoot around because I couldn’t make shots consistently. I felt I was off but I’m glad that was just a feeling.

How quickly did you know going into the game that this could be a very good scoring game for you?

I felt after I made our first 10 points that I could have at least gotten 30, I have had numerous games where I started very strong like that in either the first or second quarter, I just happened to stay hot throughout the rest of the game.

What was your feeling at half-time? Did you feel like your luck would continue in the second half?

I felt like I could keep it going, by half time shoot around unlike the pregame shoot around, I couldn’t miss a shot. That’s all I needed to see to give me more confidence in the second half.

You only took 24 shots. Looking back does it bug you a bit that you didn´t shoot more? You were close to 50 points.

No it doesn’t bother me that I didn’t shoot more, I had a total of 8 chances to get to 50, I should have just made those shots or even taken better shots. It’s just something I can look at and know for future games to value the shots I’m given.

You also only took 5 free throws. Were you content with your aggressiveness or could you have been a bit more aggressive?

I for sure feel I could have been more aggressive getting to the line and I tried, some fouls were definitely called before the shot unfortunately but that’s just the way the game gets called.

How much self confidence does a game like this give you for the future? Is 50 points a new goal for you?

It gives me a lot of confidence for sure, definitely gratifying to see your hard work put to its full potential and it lets me know to keep working hard. 50 is definitely a goal or even 60 but again with hard work these personal goals can be achieved.

You hit 11 three´s in the game and 10 in another game. What do the 11 three´s mean to you? Very seldom do guys hit as many three´s as you did?

It’s the most I have ever made in a meaningful game, it means a lot to make so many 3’s in such an efficient manner, it lets me know it can be done, but not something I should look to force in the future.

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

My favorite basket had to be in the third quarter with 9 on the shot clock. I got the ball on the right wing, drove left then spun back right into a step back rainbow 3. I feel that shot showed myself the type of night I was having.

Did you have to get donuts for the team or did they treat you to something?

No donuts at all just a good team meal after the game, I was glad to say I left with a full stomach from the restaurant we attended.

Did you get any special messages from people that you didn´t necessarily expect?

No, everyone who has been a part of the journey showed me love about the accomplishment, and I’m grateful for that, I don’t want new faces only around when things go great.

Thanks Sidney for the chat.

Asa Williams(BG Hessing Leitershofen) Knows That Having Had The JUCO Experience Will Help Him Get Through Many Things In Life

pic credit: Zoe Ruschenschwind

The first thought that a young, ambitious and hungry player might have when landing on the campus of a JUCO school could be “what the hell am I doing here”? I´m way better than having to be here”. Guys land in JUCO for many reasons. Some don´t have the money, others don´t have the grades and others don´t have the necessary skills at that point of their basketball careers. But as time goes by, a lot of these guys start to believe that going the JUCO route wasn´t so bad after all. I believe the percent number of guys who went to JUCO and felt it was one that was tough, but one they wouldn´t have traded the world for is 100%. Ok I ´ll stay on the safe side and say somewhere around 99,5%. Ok so many of the players are playing for their stats and trying to move up to higher divisions, but there are also guys who learn the team game and actually win their first chips there. Nothing is impossible in JUCO. The way to the NCAA and going pro overseas is a reach, but it has been done. Guys even reached the NBA with guys like Chris Boucher or Richaun Homes just to mention a few. These NBA players and others are the best motivation for JUCO guys to give all they have to reach their goals. The guys that play JUCO definitely pay their dues, but there are some guys that have to go the whole 9 yards and have to play at 3. I thought that had to be the hardest hurdle, but it wasn´t. Asa Williams (198-SF-1999, college: Montana Tech) who is living out the dream in Germany with Pro B team BG Leitershofen actually stuck it out at 3 JUCO school something about as rare as seeing Luka Doncic not hit a trick shot in some capacity before a game. And he is more than blessed to have done it. “Juco was a great experience. I appreciate all my coaches and teammates that helped me get through my Juco route. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I think that plan in Juco build character for a lot of players. I think that if you play Juco, you will have the opportunity to make it through a lot of things in life. It shaped me into a player that can face any obstacle that comes in front of him. Juco Shaped me into the player I am today”, warned Asa Williams.

Asa Williams who lists Kyree Walker and Marvin Bagley as the toughest players that he has ever faced so far in his career on the court was born on September 15th, 1999 in Solon, Ohio. He attended Fort Loramie high school and then began his long trek of playing at 3 JUCO schools. He began his journey with Waubonsee Community College (JUCO) playing 32 games and averaging 13.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.8%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 81.0%. He then played at %, Holmes Community College (JUCO) averaging 3.9ppg, 2.2rpg and was NJCAA D1 Gulf District Champion -and NJCAA D1 Region XXIII Champion -2021. He then finished at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (JUCO) averaging 10.7ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 35.3%, 3PT: 26.6%, FT: 62.5%.” Each school I played at. I learned a lot about myself learning how to be a better player or teammate. Waubonsee taught me how to be a better scorer. Holmes taught me how to face adversity and be a better teammate while coming off the bench. CGCC taught me how to be a better player while also fighting against small problems and adversity throughout the year”, stressed Asa Williams. After having paid his dues in JUCO, he made the next step and palyed 2 seasons at Montana Technological University (NAIA) averaging 14.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 70.5% and 16.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 71.3%. He made huge strides in his game there. “I was more aggressive. I had a bigger goal my senior year and that was to lead my team in scoring and be the best player on the floor each night”, remembered Asa Williams. In his first season tehre he helped reach the NAIA Elite 8 losing to OUAZ. “It was a great experience made it the farthest in Montana tech history. For all sports to play in the elite 8 was a one of kind experience. I’m glad I got to experience that. Playing the national tournament is always a goal of mine. I’m glad we made it to Kansas City”, said Asa Williams. He had a reunion this season in Germany already with American Caleb Bellach who was his teammate in the NAIA and opponent with Team Ehingen. “ It was great he was one of the my favorite teammates. He was a great player winning player of the year. He had great leadership qualities and always made his teammates better. Caleb is a great player and a winning player. It was great to compete against him on the pro level”, stated Asa Williams who remembers beating him in 1-1 games in practice. He scored in double figures in 51 of 60 NAIA games including exploding for 31 points against Carroll MT, and 30 points against E Oregon. He couldn´t of made such massive strides without the guidance of head coach Adam Hiatt. “He pushed me each day in practice and coaching me as if I was a professional. Making me be a professional each day toward my teammates and coaches. Holding me to professional standards”, commented Asa Williams.

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Asa Williamas in Bad Honef after a game against the Dragons Rhondorf

The 198cm forward who lists LeBron James, Kobe, Steph, and Michael Jordan on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season overseas with BG Leitershofen. “I’m super blessed God has blessed me in more ways than one I’m thankful that I got this opportunity and that Coach Richie gave me a chance and my family supports me. Just having the opportunity to play in another country and playing for my family. I’m thankful for my club and my teammates they are amazing and it’s a great opportunity”, expressed Asa Williams. The club is in it´s third Pro B season and finished 9 and 11th the last 2 seasons. This season the team is battling the RheinStars for the top spot. Leitershofen split with the RheinStars this season and the 2 games were decided by not more than 7 points. What has been the secret of the success? “Just following coaches game plan and playing together as a team. I think the goal to success is loving each other and being disciplined. We are very hungry we think we have a legitimate chance to win. We will have the opportunity to play in the playoffs so it’ll be great to be there and do something for the club that has never been done”, warned Asa Williams. The team is a scoring machine and averages more than 90 points per game and gives up less than 80 points. The team has proven that they defend with passion. “Communication is our biggest strength. We communicate with each other. I think just playing super hard and trusting one another we make the game easy for each other”, added Asa Williams. Team has an incredible big man duo of Ellias Marei and Ferenc Gillie. “They are great I think they are best big man duo in the league they both can stretch the floor and rebound well”, stated Asa Williams. The team also has another American with Christian Hinckson and Romanian Dragos Dickulescu who are both also instrumental for the success of the team. “I like that Christian spreads the court. He can also push the ball in transition. Christan is probably one of our best defenders and one of our best rebounders. He plays out of position most of the time because he is a true small forward in my opinion, but he stretches the floor at our four spot so it’s good for our team. Dragos is very valuable helps the teams in all aspects. He can play make score and read the game very well”, stressed Asa Williams.

The Ohio native who lists Chrishon Dixon- Montana Tech Sindou Diallo – Montana Tech Elias Marei- kangaroos Simeon Strauss-Waubonsee Meech Valdez- Cgcc as his 5 best teammates of all-time and Lebron James as his GOAT is a 198cm player that likes to shoot the trey and is shifty like a Jordan Poole. His biggest strength is shooting and pushing the ball in transition. But he also gives his all on the defensive end and isn´t one dimensional. “I think since coming to Europe I’m a better defender. I think that Coach Ritchie and my teammates push me each day and practice to become a better defender and I think that I’m defending the ball a lot better than what I was when I played in college at Montana Tech. I’m learning different things on defense, especially ways to help when not guarding on the ball”, stressed Asa Williams. He is shooting the three ball extremely well, but knows there is still work to do inorder to reach the next level. “To make the next step as a shooter, I just have to be more consistent each game and more consistent in practice continuing to work on my shot and listening to the things that Coach Andy helps me work on. Staying on top of this will help me become the next best shooter in Europe”, warned Asa Williams. He has needed no adjustment time as currently he is averaging 16/3/1/1. What ahs been his secret to coming over and performing so well? “Just trusting in what my coaches and teammates tell me. It’s a different game so just focusing and being coachable”, said Asa Williams. He had his best scoring game against top team RheinStars Cologne exploding for 31 points. He mustr of been extra motivated after missing the first game? “ I’m motivated for every game. It just so happened to be my day. Thankful that my teammates put me in position to win”, smiled Asa Williams. In 2 games against Coburg and Cologne he hit 17 three´s. That was the best display of shooing back to back in his career. He also hit 8 three´s last season against Carroll Mt. It will be interesting where the journey of Asa Williams will go to in the next years. This season all has been good, but you never know when adversary might challenge you? But one thing is for sure, he knows that his vast JUCO experience will always guide him through life on and off the court.

Ratiopharm Ulm Have Explosive First Quarter Carrying Them To NBBL Do Or Die 76-59 Win Over Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners

It was do or die time in Frankfurt. That happened because ratiopharm Ulm struck back in game 2 winning 83-78. Despite a big Frankfurt comeback, Ratiopharm Ulm showed great team play and endurance in the last 10 minutes and got an explosive game by raw big man Endurance Aiyamenkhue with 14 points and 19 rebounds. There is nothing more spetacular than a do or die game in any sport. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had to do a better job on the boards in game 3 and show that hustle and fight of game 1 in order to move on. Eintracht Frankfurt had more difficulty on the boards than in game 2, but it was actually the explosive first quarter that ended their season 76-59 as they couldn´t recover from it as they won the last 3 quarters 49-48, but couldn´t get over the hump as that one own massive run eluded them. “They were the better team from the start. I felt like our focus was good, but they were better than us both mentally and physically. They overpowered us from the start especially in the post up and rebounding. We never gave up and fought until the end. The next days will be very hard accepting that our season is over”, stressed Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliner guard Namori Omog. Ratiopharm did a great job coming into the game being the aggressor and set the punches early and played tough defense from the start stifling the Frankfurt drive to the rim. “Congrats to my team. We played with courage and very adult like. But I also give a lot of respect to Frankfurt and how they fought to the end. Key defensively was keeping control of Omog and Edoka and finding to our game early”, stressed ratiopharm Ulm head coach Florian Flabb. Omog did sparkle with 20 points, but Edoka only mustered 7 points on 3/13 shooting.

Jamie Edoka at the FT line

It was do or die in Frankfurt and ratiopharm Ulm knew better than Frankfurt just how high the stakes were. They didn´t waste anytime throwing the punches and began with that massive run that would allow them to have that comfortable lead until the end and never looked back. The guests began scoring quickly as the game was 6-0, 9-2 and before anyone really had understood what had happened, Frankfurt was looking up from a deep hole down 14-2. The trek up the steep hill kept getting steeper as suddenly ratiopharm Ulm led 19-4. In the run, ratiopharm Ulm was displaying a keen touch and combination of team basketball and incredible individual qualities that would give Frankfurt problems all afternoon long. The guests found their touch instantly dropping 4 three´s as Young Croatian Niko Jerkic (197-F-2007) connected twice, as did Swiss army knife Joel Cwik and Danish youth national player Frederik Erichsen. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners had a big problem finding a rhythm as their ball movement was average and they couldn´t get to the rim as easily as they were used to. Plus Dutch big man Endurance Aiyamenkhue was like a brick wall in the paint and didn´t give Frankfurt anything easy. The Frankfurt big 3 of Crnjac, Edoka and Omog weren´t getting easy looks. Crnjac did give Frankfurt 5 points, but overall shots weren´t falling regularly as they were only 4/17 after 10 minutes. German Jordan Mueller connected for a trey at the end and ratiopharm Ulm had the staggering 28-10 advantage after one quarter. “We couldn´t find a rhythm and they did a good job packing the pant. Ulm played solid 1-1 defense and Frankfurt got nothing easy”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich. “We were unsure and began very slowly while Ulm hit shots”, stated Raphael Edward. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 59% from the field and 63% from outside and had 14 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 24% from the field and 14% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 2 turnovers. “We played with a lot of energy and were well prepared”, commented Niko Jerkic.

Jordan Mueller from outside

In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners began well, but just couldn´t take that early momentum and manufacture it into a bigger run as ratiopharm Ulm executed well on offense and led by 21 points at half-time. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners began with better energy than the first quarter and received back to back lay in´s by Maximillian Peters and Namori Omog to trail 30-15. However Frankfurt just couldn´t find consistency at both ends. They gave up a 10-2 run to Ulm and trailed 39-17. A big plus for Ulm head coach Florian Flabb was his bench as their depth was a big advantage over what Frankfurt had to offer. Young German Milo Murray came off the bench and instantly hit a trey. Cwik and Aiyamenkhue also added lay in´s as Frankfurt couldn´t match their physicality and at times athleticism. Frankfurt just didn´t execute regularly which kept them behind. Ivan Crnjac had good moments as he manufactured 5 points and undersized big man Raphael Edward added another basket. He was a huge force on defense especially in the second half and finished with 4/5 and 4 steals in 22 minutes. “He is always in good spirits. He is so vocal and such a fighter. He gives so much energy and is like a mini hulk. He does so many key things not seen on the stat sheet”, warned Florian Dietrich. Ratiopharm Ulm got some key lay in´s from Erichsen and solid role player Jonas Zilinskas, but what really hurt Frankfurt was fouling Jervis Scheffs with 0,6 seconds behind the three point line. He made all 3 as Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners trailed 47-26 at half-time. “We kept fighting, but just couldn´t go on a big run. Frankfurt´s body language was better. It is never easy to come back when your down so much especially against a strong team like Ulm”, added Florian Dietrich. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 44% from the field and 43% from the three point line and had 30 rebounds and 7 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 28% from the field and 15% from the three point line and had 16 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Raphael Edward with the runner

In the third quarter both teams kept punching back and forth as the guests won the quarter 19-18 as the big damage of the first quarter continued to haunt Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners came out refreshed and quickly dealt ratiopharm a blow with a rapid 6-1 run to trail only 48-33. In the run, the athletic players Omog, Messer and Edoka all found their spots and made lay in´s. But that little Frankfurt spurt was quickly erased as ratiopharm Ulm stepped it up again and did what Frankfurt couldn´t do which was go on a bigger run. Ulm slapped a 12-3 run in Frankfurt´s faces and once again they were looking up a steep road down 60-36. In the run the guests played excellent team ball as many guys shared in the success as Aiyamenkhue scored twice and swatted away a ball while Cwik added another trey and Scheffs added a 20 footer. In the last minutes Frankfurt got 5 points from Omog and a clutch three pointer from role player Finley Pruever, but Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners still had the giant deficit of 23 points. Jerkic also added a turn around shot finishing with 20 points leading his team in scoring and showed again that he is such a vital player for Ulm. “He is a 3 level scorer that gives us a lot of advantages when posting up. He is a hard worker and also very important on the defensive end”, stated Florian Flabb. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 45% from the field and 37% from the parking lot and had 41 rebounds and 14 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 22% from the parking lot and had 22 rebounds and 10 turnovers. “Ulm was prepared very well. There was simply too much trading of baskets instead of us going on a run”, commented Namori Omog. “We continued to keep our energy up and Endurance closed up the paint areas”, stated Niko Jerkic.

Niko Jerkic at the FT line

Even if Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners ended their season against ratiopharm Ulm, they did finish the game strong winning the fourth quarter 15-10. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners didn´t want to end their season hanging their heads, but really gave all they had led by Raphael Edward who was a defensive stopper. Edward led the charge with 2 steals, extreme hustle and keeping the Frankfurt intensity high which led to 6 stops against Ulm in the first minutes. Unfortunately for Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners only one bucket and free throws from Omog came in this phase as ratiopharm Ulm led 66-48. Aiyamenkhue finally got Ulm on the scoreboard at the 5,37 minute mark with a lay in. After a Crnjak runner, Aiyamenkhue scored again in the paint as Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners trailed 70-50. Down the stretch, Ivan Crnjac added 6 points, but time was running out and the deficit just never got any less. Jordan Mueller dropped another trey while Namori Omog scored Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners last basket of the season with a lay in. “I think one saw that we had our chances in the last quarter. They weren´t unbeatable. I feel like we could of achieved more, but just didn´t use our chances better”, said Namori Omog. “We managed the big lead well and just kept fighting on defense until the end”, said Niko Jerkic. Ratiopharm Ulm was led by Niko Jerkic with 20 points while Frederik Erichsen and Endurance Aiyamenkhue added 12 points a piece while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners was led by Namori Omog with 20 points while Ivan Crnjac had 19 points. Ratiopharm Ulm shot 46% from the field and 35% from outside and had 49 rebounds and 24 turnovers while Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 33% from the field and 22% from outside and had 28 rebounds and 15 turnovers.

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