NCAA

Basketball Globetrotter Luke Moyer Will Always Have Massive Love For The Country Georgia Winning Titles There And Saving His Dog

Luke Moyer (185-G-1993, college: John Brown, agency: BIG) is a 31 year old 185cm guard from Souderton, Pennsylvania playing his ninth professional season and first with UMF U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes (Iceland-Division I). He has been a real basketball globetrotter having played in countries like Canada, Mexico, Georgia, Portugal and Spain. He began his basketball career with Souderton high school and then played a season at Richmond (NCAA). He then played 2 seasons at Campbell (NCAA) and finished at John Brown University (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 83.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

You have played in 6 countries so far and are 31. Is Germany on your bucket list?

Sure, if the right opportunity comes along I’d love to. One of my good friends, Justin Jaworski is playing there now and loves it.

You began the 2024-2025 season with Caja 1987 Baloncesto (Spain-Segunda FEB) playing 2 games averaging 10.5ppg, 1.0apg. What kind of an experience was that for you? Why was that stay so short?

Unfortunately, I sustained an injury early on in the preseason and the team didn’t have the patience to wait for my recovery.

Last season you played with UMFN Njardvik (Iceland-Subway League) playing 9 games averaging 9.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 87.5%. Why was that stay so short? You had solid stats?

It wasn’t the right fit last season and didn’t work out with the club.

What was it like playing with Chaz Williams who had had an incredible NCAA career at UMass and seen it all overseas? He must have been one of the more talented guys you ever played with overseas?

He’s a tough guy to guard every day at practice. Reminded me of my teammate, Kendall Anthony, trying to guard him at practice every day at Richmond was a workout.

In the 2022-2023 season you split time with BC Titebi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 22.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 5.8apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 52.3%, 3FGP: 30.5%, FT: 66.7%, in Jan.’23 signed at Zamora Enamora (Spain-LEB Silver) averaging 12.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 71.4%. Stat wise another great season, but you had to change teams again. You had one of your best seasons stat wise in Georgia. Didn´t they appreciate your play there?

Many situations overseas can be challenging and that was another one. I finished in Spain with Zamora and we had one of the best teams I’ve ever played with chemistry-wise, so it was another very fulfilling experience.

In Spain you played an interesting playoff series against Benicarloincluding a 66-66 game. What memories do you have of that playoff series?

One of my favorite games I’ve had in my career came in that series when I hit the decisive dagger 3-pointer in the closing seconds of the game to help secure the win and move onto the semifinals.

You played with Kutaisi 2010 (Georgia-Superleague) from 2020-2022, but played only 15 games, but won a title. In your title season, you were injured for many months. How tough was that season?

Yes, it was another challenge. There’s a lot of lessons I learned when I was injured and went through tough seasons. I’m grateful for all those times because they’ve helped make me resilient and unbreakable.

You lost a tough 3 game playoff series to Dinamo. Was the game 1 94-93 loss one of those games that you will never forget? What memories do you have of that game?

I remember it was very intense. I had a big game and the game was full of trash talking and physicality – you live for those games.

In the 2019-2020 season you played 1 game in Portugal and then moved to BC Titebi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 13.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 69.2%. It was your second season with them. How much is that club in your heart? You won your first professional title with them.

Titebi and those guys in Georgia will forever be in my heart. They gave me my start in Europe and I also rescued my dog from Georgia and she is in the states with me. I love Georgia.

You were teammates with Kaheem Ransom. You would be teammates again on another team in Georgia a few years later. Are you guys like brothers? Maybe you will be teammates again one day?

Kaheem is a heck of a player and competitor. It was special to play with him. We won 3 or 4 cup titles together.

You played in Mexico with Nauticos of Mazatlan (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging 14.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 56.9%, 3FGP: 35.4%, FT: 86.0% and with Rayos de Hermosillo (Mexico-CIBACOPA). What kind of an experience was Mexico? It is one of those leagues where many well known guys play because the money is good.

Great talent and very great culture. The hoops schedule is more like NBA playing 3 or 4 games in a week sometimes. I had a lot of fun playing in Mexico.

In Mexico you would play against the same team back to back. How was the skill level in the league and how would you compare it to other leagues that you have played in?

A lot of talent. Former NBA players and guys who went on to play in the NBA.

You played your rookie season with Durham BC (Canada-CBL). What kind of experience was that coming from school? Did you have a memorable experience there?

A learning curve coming from NCAA to the pros, but I couldn’t have been more blessed to have the opportunity to play under former NBA and euroleague player, Milt Palacio. He taught me what it meant to be a professional and laid the foundation for me to have the mentality as a professional that I carry with me to this day.

You began your career at the University of Richmond (NCAA), but played only 4 games. What memories do you have of this season? Could you get anything positive out of it?

Coach Mooney runs a high-major program and creates winners. I had an incredible experience and played with some amazing players and people.

You then played 2 years at Campbell playing 46 games. You averaged 5,7ppg and 3,4ppg and averaged 12 minutes. Did you get a fair chance there? You had to experience a coaching change.

As a young man, I made a decision to leave Campbell with the information I had at the time, and I believe I deserved more opportunity – especially being a top 3-point shooter in the country and producing solid numbers in limited minutes.

You then took a step back and finished at John Brown University (NAIA) averaging 15.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 83.8%. how important was making this change? You were a main contributor on the team as a senior.

Sometimes the ugly side of basketball forces one to lose the joy of the game and I experienced that at the Division 1 level, so I decided I needed to go play at a program where I could find the joy of playing again.

You had some great games in losing causes but also some other great games in wins over Oklahoma City and SW Christian. What was your fondest moment at John Brown?

Senior night I hit the game winner with my family in attendance.

How did Jason Beschta groom and prepare you for a professional career?

The work I put in was instilled intrinsically since I was 10 years old. It was always my goal to play professionally.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Ricky Roberts?

I believe Ricky got me a few times, he could really shoot the ball!

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

De’Angelo Russell and TJ Warren are at the top of the list.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

Steve Tyson Terry Allen Jordan Faciane Jacob Round Toni Naspler

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

Kobe Bryant Michael Jordan Steph Curry Shaquille O’Neal

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan. Ultimate winner and competitor.

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

I didn’t – too many remakes nowadays the originals are undefeated!!

Thanks Luke for the chat.

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

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

Asa Williams at the FT line

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

Antonio Pilipovic from outside

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

Elias Marei with the lay in

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

Tim Smith Jr at the Ft line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Isaiah Stewart and Jaden McDaniels

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

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

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Steph Curry, Shaq, Allen Iverson

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

I haven´t seen it.

Thanks Miryne for the chat.

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

Pic credit: Dziki Warszawa

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

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

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

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

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

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

It will be a very competitive and intense series.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Domantas Sabonis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kyle probably

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

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

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

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

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Steph, Wilt, MJ

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

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

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

Thanks John for the chat.

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

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Braden Norris in Koblenz 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RJ Barrett or Darius Garland.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

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

Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Lebron, MJ, Steph and Shaq

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron

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

I did not see that.

Thanks Braden for the chat.

Elijah Pemberton Turned Heads With His 3 Point Shooting In Belgium And Now Wants To Finish The Season Strong With The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg

Elijah Pemberton (196-F/G-1997, college: Hofstra) is a 27 year old 196cm swingman that is playing his 5th professional season and first with MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg. He began the season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 15,3ppg, 3,8rpg and 1,6apg in the BNXT league and 15,6ppg, 3,4rpg and 2,2apg and 1,8spg in the Fiba Europe Cup. Last season he played with Samsun BSB Anakent (Turkey-BSL) and Hapoel Altshuler Shaham Beer Sheva (Israel-Winner League) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 68.8%. IN 2023, he had a short stint with the Ottawa Blackjacks (Canada-CEBL). He played his first 3 pro seasons with the Santa Cruz Warriors averaging 6.1ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.9% and in his second season averaged 11.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.2% and in his third season averaged 11.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 77.8%. He began his basketball career at Xavier High School and also played at The Master’s School and at Cheshire Academy. He then played 4 years at Hofstra University (NCAA) playing 128 NCAA games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball during his time with Hubo Limburg United.

Thanks Elijah for talking to germanhoops.com Your playing your fifth professional season and second overseas. After a tough first season in Turkey and Israel, your balling this season with Hubo Limburg United (Belgium-Pro Basketball League). How important is this season for your career and how hungry and focused are you to have your break out season?

Every season I cherish. There’s no difference in importance throughout the years. I’ve learned more each year by becoming a better professional and adding new parts to my game. Whether it’s physical or mental skill. This year I’m grateful to be with a club who understood my prior situations, but at the end of the day as a player, I’m still a student of the game.

After your season last season, I´m sure you had to carefully make the right decision for your next destination in 2024-2025. What were the main reasons for choosing Limburg?

My main reason coming to Limburg was because of Coach Ray. He’s so smart with his X and O play calling. He has more of an American style coaching, where it’s about the development of team rather individual goals, which is rare in Europe. He’s building a family here within the squad, and understands we have to be in unison to become successful.

You had 2 very good seasons in the G-League. How confident are you that you will make your breakthrough this season?

I’m confident that I’ll continue to grow as a professional. With the offseason preparation and pre season still going, I’m in a mental space of clarity and gratitude. I can only control my attitude and effort, and giving 100% of everything I have. I’m confident in my skills, and I feel I’m in the best place to show and prove them.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

If I had to compare my game to anyone in the NBA it would be Norman Powell.

You’re a player that can fill the stat sheet with ease. You also have a lethal three point shot. What would you say is your biggest strength? Your versatility or three point shot?

I think my biggest strength is versatility, when I’m on point and consistent, I feel I can play with the best of them. Humbly speaking.

You reached the 40% mark in the NCAA and G-League and are still looking to do that overseas. How would you rate the development of your three pointer at the moment?

I think I will turn a lot of heads this season with my three point shooting. I’m in a great environment and I’m eager to showcase my game from the 3pt mark.

You don´t average much on blocks and steals, but it isn´t always about what is seen on the stat sheet. Are you the type of defender that does more the little things not seen on the stat sheet?

I would agree I’m great with the little things. Always in help defense spot, communicating with my teammates. First on the floor, and always willing to guard the best player on the perimeter.

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

I’m sharpening my mind for the most part. It’s a long season and there’s always ups and downs. Just trying to stay consistent with my brain, and let my game speak for itself.

Last season you played your first season overseas with Samsun BSB Anakent (Turkey-BSL) averaging 4.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, left in Nov.’23, in Dec.’23 moved to Hapoel Altshuler Shaham Beer Sheva (Israel-Winner League) averaging 5.3ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 68.8%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

I was alone, and I had to become comfortable in my darkest moments. And for that I’m grateful the most high put me in those positions. Both teams made the right decision by removing me. I had a job to perform and didn’t live up to their expectations. It made me self reflect, and sometimes that’s hard for us players because we have egos. My ego died a long time ago.

Last season was your first one overseas. What did you learn from the experience and what was the biggest on court adjustment that you had to encounter?

My biggest on court adjustment was simply going from g league to top leagues overseas. The IQ and game is at a higher level there and I was underprepared. My body was good, but my game was a step behind.

You played your first 3 pro seasons in the Golden State Warriors organization and played with the G-League team Santa Cruz Warriors and in your last 2 years averaged 11.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 82.2% and 11.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 77.8%. What was your fondest moment being part of this great organization?

Fondest moments with the organization was playing with Klay. To see a superstar with such poise and humility was an honor.

Did you ever have a 1-1 moment with Steph Curry? What was he like in those moments where you could play with him during pre season?

Never had one, I was too in awe to even speak for myself. I was young, still a fan instead of competitive.

You had 2 solid G-League seasons averaging 23 minutes. Do you feel like with 30 plus minutes, you could have gotten a NBA call up? What do you honestly believed was missing for that NBA opportunity?

I believe they did what was best for their organization. I could have been more aggressive and made the most of my time. I’m not big on what ifs. If they wanted me they would have gotten me. I wasn’t NBA material at that time.

In those 3 years at Santa Cruz you had many great teammates like Jordan Poole, Jeremy Linn, Jonathan Kuminga and many more. Which teammate had the biggest influence on you?

Dusty Hannah’s, and Jerome Robinson had the biggest influence on me.

In your 3 years in the Golden State organization, what was the best example that you saw where you saw that the NBA will always be a business first before anything else?

The Golden state organization gave me every opportunity possible to shine. It was my worry and anxiety that hindered me. I always felt I was on the line of getting cut or doing something wrong and I second guessed myself. But that was all in my head. Basketball is basketball, we all face the same thing. I cannot make excuses or say the nba is more of a business. Back then, I was not ready.

You also were part of Team USA for various qualifiers and was teammates with guys like Norris Cole, Jodie Meeks or Jeremy Pargo. How cool was it being able to be a part of Team USA? What was it like playing for your country?

To represent my country was a true honor. Unforgettable teaching moments with so many legends with all different careers. I look back and realize how lucky I was to wear the red white and blue.

You played at Hofstra (NCAA) from 2016-2020. You were denied a NCAA tournament experience because of Covid. Despite that what did you gain most from the NCAA?

I didn’t gain anything from the ncaa, but from Hofstra University and my coaches, I gained so much. So many ups and downs in those years, and they believed in me until the end. I had an amazing point guard in Desure Buie who is basically the reason I’m a professional (in my eyes) without him helping me with my confidence and mentality our senior year, I don’t know where I would be right now. Coach Farelly spending so many hours in the gym with me, coach Claxton holding me accountable as a young man, and Coach Mihalick was all of that. The true jack of all trades and didn’t let me BS myself. I love those guys till death.

In your freshman year you lost by 23 points to NCAA powerhouse Kentucky and played against future NBA players like DaAron Fox and Malik Monk. What do you remember form this game most?

I remember seeing Justin Wright Foreman have a breakout game. And after that he became a 2000 point scorer in two years

You had so many great games in the NCAA and had Charleston´s number in many games scoring 20 plus games 5 times. What was your fondest moment in the NCAA?

My fondest moment of course is winning the CAA title with my brothers. I can’t express the feeling of that moment. From the beginning of that year, we believed in us.

How did head coach Joe Mihalich groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He helped me become a more honest man of myself and understand next level I won’t have the same opportunities as I would here. He gave me the green light and instilled confidence in me, even when I could be a bit of an idiot. He never gave up on me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Tareq Coburn?

I would smoke Tareq in 1 on 1. NEXT!

Who was the best player you played against in your life that reached the NBA?

Ben Simmons in AAU, Justin Wright Foreman.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Desure Buie Jerome Robinson Justin Wright Foreman Bryan Crawford Jalen Ray

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Michael Jordan Lebron James Stephen Curry Shaquille O’Neal 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?

They should have absolutely left it alone. I agree lol

Thanks Elijah for the chat.

Bo Hodges(Uni Baskets Munster) Does Whatever His Team Needs To Win

Bo Hodges (196-G/F-1998, college: Butler) is a 26 year old 196cm guard from Tennessee playing his third professional season and first in Germany with Pro A team Munster currently averaging 9,9ppg, 4,8rpg, and 2,9apg. Last season he played with at S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) averaging13.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 66.7%. He split his rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 6.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 35.0%, 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 70.0%, in Oct.’22 moved to Kouvot Akatemia (Finland-1st Division A) averaging 12.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 37.0%, 3PT: 14.8%, FT: 72.7%, played also at Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 66.7%. He began his basketball career at He began his basketball career at Maplewood High School. He then played at East Tennessee State University (NCAA) from 2017-2020 playing 93 games and averaging 8.9ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 69.3%, in his second season averaged 10.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 56.0% and in his last season averaged 12.7ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.7%. He then finished at Butler University (NCAA) averaging 8.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 34.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 45.8% and in his last season averaged 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 62.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com last summer about basketball.

Thanks Bo for talking to eurobasket.com. Welcome to Germany and congrats with signing with Pro A team Uni Baskets Munster. How motivated are you to make the next step in your career?

I am very motivated to take the next step in my career as a player. I’ve worked hard to do so.

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball?

I knew some about it I have had friends that I know play here so I’ve watched games and seen the style of play.

Have you had any friends, former teammates or opponents ball in Germany?

Yes I have.

What were the main reasons for signing with Munster? How much of a role did Ty Groce have your ex teammate from Butler (NCAA)? Now your reunited again as teammates.

It felt like a great opportunity to get my career on the right path to make the jumps I need. An he played a little role as it’s always cool to be able to play with someone you know!

How did the talks go with head coach Gotz Rohdewald? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

They went well and I appreciate that he was honest he told me what I needed to do to take my game to the next level and what I was coming in to do.

Coach Rohdewald said in the press release that you had a lot of misfortune in your first 2 pro seasons. How big is your will to have an incredible season?

My will every season is to have a big year but this year is a little different I’m due for a good season god willing.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 196cm guard/forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description besides Dwayne Wade?

I mean I really don’t know I’d say I’m just me.

You’re a player that really fits the stat sheet well. Would a Swiss army knife be a good description of your game?

If that’s what you think, I’m just a guy that goes out there and tries to do whatever I need to for my team to win.

Your strong, athletic and have a huge fighting mentality. What do you feel is hidden strength in your game that is still off the radar? •

I would say my ability to pass.

Is it fair to say that you don´t like playing defense, but Love to play defense? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

You could say that I feel you can always get better at something so always room for improvement in that area.

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

My shooting.

You played last season for S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-Liga Betclic) playing 9 games averaging 13.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 66.7%. How tough was coming in mid season? What did you learn about yourself in this season?

It was very tough coming in mid season to a team that hadn’t won a game. I learned how much I really love the game of basketball-

You played your rookie season with the Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 5 games averaging 6.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 35.0%, 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 70.0%, in Oct.’22 moved to Kouvot Akatemia (Finland-1st Division A) playing 7 games averaging 12.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.7apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 37.0%, 3PT: 14.8%, FT: 72.7%, played also at Kouvot Kouvola (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 11.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg,FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 21.1%, FT: 66.7%. You had your moments. How vital was having to face adversary for the first time overseas? How did you become mentally stronger?

Just trusting in god and trusting the process to keep moving forward.

You played 3 seasons at East Tennessee State University (NCAA) playing 92 NCAA games. Was winning the SoCom title in 2020 one of your fondest moments there?

I would say so yes.

You had 3 very solid seasons there. How vital was head coach Steve Forbes in your early basketball development?

He was a big part just believing in me and trusting me to be productive in the years I was there.

In your 3rd NCAA game you battled Kentucky and played 5 minutes. You played against future NBA players like Shai Gillgeous-Alexander, PJ Washington or Kevin Knox. What memories do you have of this game?

None really.

You then played 2 seasons at Butler (NCAA), but only 26 games and had injury problems. How would you summarize your 2 seasons there? What positives could you take?

A tough 2 years for me.

What was it like being teammates with Ty Groce? Are you guys brothers for life?

Yeah that’s my brother for life it’s always cool playing with someone you know.

How did head coach Lavall Jordan give you that extra push to help you become a pro player?

We never talked about it.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Bryce Nze

We never played.

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

Fletcher Magee

Who is your GOAT and why?

Michael Jordan

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

Yes they should have.

Thanks Bo for the chat

Tyler Stephenson-Moore Has That Derrick White in Him Being Known As A Great Shooter But Really Can Do It All On The Court

Tyler Stephenson-Moore (190-G, college: Stony Brook, agency: Players Group) is a 190 cm guard from Brookville, New York playing his rookie season for Phoenix Hagen (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career at Long Island Lutheran High School. He then played 5 seasons at Stony Brook University (NCAA) playing a total of 140 NCAA games. In his last 2 seasons he averaged 14.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 83.9% and 16.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 84.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Tyler for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on signing with German Pro A team Phoenix Hagen. If you could describe your excitement in 1 word what would it be?

Ecstatic!!!!

What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had any friends or former teammates and opponents ball in Germany?

Just the basics honestly. True sports fans at all levels, beautiful scenery, good food and lastly a welcoming culture. I do have a friend who played basketball in Germany, not sure exactly where but he said it was one of the best countries he played in as a professional hooper.

German Roland Nyama helped lead your school to their only NCAA appearance in 2016. He graduated in 2017 and since then has been a German pro A vet. Had you heard of him or even met him over the years?

No I haven’t actually, hopefully our paths cross during the season so we can talk more in depth.

What really enticed you the most about signing with Phoenix Hagen? You watched some games and did you in a way fall in love with the great fan atmosphere? Did that remind you a bit of what one sees in the NCAA?

Great fit in terms of style and play defensively/offensively. Phoenix Hagen’s fans are awesome and truly show a lot of support and love the team. The energy at the home arena looked electric!!!

Talk a little about what you appreciate most about the basketball philosophy of Hagen head coach Chris Harris? What do you enjoy most about his brand of basketball?

Extremely respectful guy and was honest in what type of player he was looking for. Consistently checked on me during my process and always wanted to have a chat. I really liked how everything is for the TEAM and not ones personal goals. Very fast pace basketball with a ton of ball movement. He elaborated a lot on having a great team culture which is something that reminded me of my LuHi High School Basketball Team in 2018-2019.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 190cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description`?

Honestly thinking about it right now Derrick White. Mainly regarded as a shooter but can do everything, knows his role and does what it takes to help the team win.

How would you describe your game? You’re a great scorer and three point shooter and bring great defensive energy.

I am an all-around player who will do anything to make sure the energy of the team is positive and that things are flowing smoothly.

You raised your amount of three point shots each year and twice eclipsed the 40% mark. Your three pointer seemed to make big strides in your third season and fifth season. How would you describe the development of your shot? –

Just staying consistent and having a lot of confidence. One thing you learn as a college athlete is how to keep a positive mindset within yourself. This can take months even years to really grasp but once you get past the mental part everything becomes easy. Remember we all started playing because it is FUN!

How big is the development of your passing on your basketball radar? What do you need to do to be able to develop your playmaking overseas?

Playmaking definitely needs to be improved, but it all comes down to the type of play style and certain positions my coach utilizes me in. I feel I am more than capable of handling the basketball and making the right reads to help get my teammates shots/opportunities to make plays to help us win.

You only averaged a 1 steal per game in a season in your NCAA career. Do you do a lot of things defensively that aren’t always seen on the stat sheet right away?

I can get you a couple deflections with my active hands. I can 100% also get a block and alter a lot of shots taken on me due to my athleticism.

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

Everything. I am constantly working on everything that will keep me at my top performance!

How tough were your first 2 seasons at Stony Brook (NCAA) where you never averaged more than 4 and 2 points per game. Covid was around and could you take any positives from this tough time?

Freshman year is always the year you can simply brush off, sophomore year aka covid year was 100% the hardest year for me. I thought I was ready to step up and take on a bigger role at Stony Brook and it was ultimately a failure. I lost complete confidence in myself as a player and thought about quitting. Looking back on it I wouldn’t change anything, there were lessons learned and I personally feel I will be ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way moving forward with a clear and humble mind.

During a stretch at the end of your freshman year you were averaging 35 minutes and hit UNH and Binghamton with 19 points a piece back to back. How important was this time? Did you feel like you had arrived in the NCAA?

Very important! That was a time when I started to grasp some of the college basketball concepts and just felt extremely comfortable on the court. I wouldn’t say I felt like I arrived but honestly just having that feeling of letting some people know that I am fully capable of being a really good basketball player!

After a tough second seasons where your minutes dipped, you rebounded with a better third year and really took off with your game in your last 2 seasons as you averaged 34 minutes and 14.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 83.9% and 16.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 84.8%. How did your game grow in your last 2 seasons in the NCAA?

My confidence and work ethic got 100% better! I worked on my mentality as well, really instilled in my head that I am fully capable of being a great basketball player and needed to switch my mentality from nonchalant to being more aggressive and assertive. I went to every workout my grad year with the mindset of being a professional basketball player.

You had many great games in the NCAA like hitting Drexel with 21 points in an exciting 67-66 win or 26 points in a tough loss against Charleston in your last NCAA game where you nailed 7 three´s. What was your fondest game in the NCAA?

Playoff performances are always the best and most watched! I really enjoyed my performance against Charleston in the chip game because I knew I gave everything I had, we didn’t come out victorious but as a top player on the team you would rather perform when the lights are brightest then underperform.

You were teammates for 2 seasons with Leon Nahar who´s father Mike was drafted by the NBA and had a long and fruitful career. He didn´t play much. What memories will you have of him and how much potential does he have?

Leon is going to be a great college and professional player. He has dealt with injuries the last few years and has really been getting his body right to have a great year this year. He can space the floor with his shooting ability plus with his size he can play the 4 and some 3 depending on matchups. Great character and always has high energy.

How did head coach Geno Ford groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Ultimately just trusting me as a player over the years, took some time but he gave me the opportunity to go out there on the floor and do what I do without feeling any pressure my final two years at Stony Brook.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Anthony Roberts?

Never really played straight 1 on 1 with Anthony Roberts my junior year like that, but he would’ve won some for sure. We always competed when it came down to our 4v4 or 5v5 live periods in practice. An elite offensive scorer, definitely a guy that brought the best out of me defensively, a ton of respect.

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

Ochai Agbaji of the 2021 Kansas NCAA title team.

Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time?

I’ve had so many teammates that I can’t even really pick 5 lol. All of those guys were really cool and always respected me as a person and player.

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

MJ, Lebron, Kobe, Shaq, Stephen Curry

Who is your GOAT and why?

I truly don’t have one. I like a ton of players and I like Lebron and MJ the same!

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

I haven’t seen the sequel, but I can honestly say I didn’t want to see it because movies nowadays do a terrible job on reboots. Just keep the classics classic.

Thanks Tyler for the chat.

Ty Brewer(Syntanics MBC Weissenfels) Knows They Have To Keep Their Emotions In Check And Bring Constant Energy Against FC Bayern Munich In The BBL Cup

Ty Brewer (201-G/F-2000, college: UAB) is a 24 year old 201cm forward from Meridan, Mississippi playin g his second professional season and first with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels (Germany-BBL). Last season he split his rookie season with GS Esperos Lamias (Greece-Elite League) averaging 13.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 26.3%, FT: 58.3%, in Jan.’24 moved to Panerythraikos AS (Greece-Elite League) averaging 14.8ppg, 7.0rpg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 74.5%. He began his basketball career with Meridan high school and then played 2 seasons with Southeastern Louisiana University (NCAA) averaging 3.8ppg, 2.8rpg and 14.9ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 66.7%. He then moved to East Tennessee State University (NCAA) averaging 8.5ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.2%, and 10.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 74.6%. He then played a fifth season with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (NCAA) averaging 7.9ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 83.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before the easyCredit BBL Cup top 4 in Weissenfels.

Thanks Ty for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season in Germany with the SYNTAINICS MBC Weissenfels. What kind of an experience has it been coming from Israel where you played your first season overseas?

My first season actually took place in Greece which was a good starting point for me, but transitioning to playing here in the BBL has been a great experience for me. I enjoy every aspect of what has been going on so far this season from building team chemistry, understanding the game better, and even the change of pace in this league.

Next weekend, you will battle in the cup against FC Bayern Munich. How excited are you for this?

I am very excited, not only because it’s Bayern, but also because I get to go out and compete for the club and for the BBL POKAL CUP.

How motivated and how much self-confidence does the team have after beating them already this season 79-75.

The team has always had great confidence individually, I can feel that personally but we all know that the team we played in the past won´t be the same team we will play here in the near future.

You obviously want to win again. They hit 11 three´s and sniper Andi Obst was 1/6. With a normal day from him, they probably would have won. They also controlled the boards. What will be key to winning this time?

The key for us to win is to make sure we pay attention to detail and personnel, while also keeping our emotions in check because the game of basketball has a lot of ups and downs and we can’t afford to be a victim of our own mistakes due to being emotionally unbalanced. Also we have to bring constant energy on both sides of the ball.

What was it like battling ex NBA guys like Carson Edwards and Shabazz Napier. Did you feel like you belonged in the 35 minutes that you played?

It felt good to play against those guys, both have high level of talent and IQ so that kept me on my toes a lot of that game but it wasn’t necessarily about belonging out there with to me, it was more so about being out there and doing what I needed to do to help my team.

What has it been like being teammates with massive veterans John Bryant and Tyren Johnson. What do you appreciate most from their games and characters?

It has been nothing but amazing being able to learn from them when it comes to reading and understanding the game of basketball. Those two guys have helped me so much since I have been a part of the team, words truly won’t do much justice when it comes to explaining how much I appreciate them. Both of them have a funny type of personality but also different at the same time, I like it.

What has it been like being teammates with sniper Spencer Reaves? Does he have to answer many questions about his brother Austin?

It’s great playing with my guy Spencer. Thats another vet who brings positive energy on and off the court and I definitely can say that every-time the ball leaves his hands I think it´s going in without a doubt. When it comes to his brother he doesn’t have to answer many questions at all.

You played your rookie season with GS EsperosLamias averaging 13.2ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 26.3%, FT: 58.3%, in Jan.’24 moved to PanerythraikosAS (Greece-Elite League) averaging 14.8ppg, 7.0rpg, Steals-1 (2.3spg), FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 74.5%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas?

I can’t quite remember having a wake up call, I just try to approach every season with an open mind to learning and a work ethic that can’t be questioned.

You put up good stats, but how tough was it not having that American vibe in the team? I believe you were the lone American in both teams in Greece?

It wasn’t tough at all because mentally I knew I was going away from the US so my focus was trying to learn the culture of Greece which made the entire experience enjoyable for me.

You played your first pro playoff series in Greece against AiasEvosmou losing in a 3 game series. What will you remember as being the reason for not advancing?

In that series we won, the last game of that series was held in our home gym where we took home the victory in a well fought game.

You were very fortunate to have had the experience of playing at 3 NCAA schools with Southeastern Louisiana University, East Tennessee State University) and the University of Alabama at Birmingham You began your NCAA career at Southeastern Louisiana University (NCAA). You made a big jump in your game averaging 14.9ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 66.7% in your second season. How did your game grow there?

My game grew well with the help of that entire coaching staff. I came in almost everyday with those guys to work on different aspects of my guy that could be beneficial to the team, and I kept faith that it was all going to work out at the end of the day.

You had many great games there, but how memorable was your 27 points against SUNO?

I honestly don’t remember that performance so my apologies for that indeed.

You then played 2 seasons at East Tennessee State University (NCAA) averaging 8.5ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.2% and 10.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 74.6%. How did your game develop further under Jason Shay and Desmond Oliver?

While playing under Coach Shay and Coach Oliver, my game also grew because they helped me understand the difference in competition of the SOCON, and how I needed to be consistent on my approach to both my offensive and defensive game.

You played a fifth season at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (NCAA) averaging 7.9ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 83.8%. You reached the NIT Final and beat Utah Valley 88-86 having a 30/12 game. Was that your best NCAA game?

I would say that was definitely my best game due to the stage it happened on and what was at stake at that time.

How did head coach Andy Kennedy groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach AK helped me so much due to his great knowledge of the game of basketball on multiple levels and his understanding of my play style. Coach Kennedy showed me everyday why he was a great and respectable coach because above all else he didn’t allow me to be ok with just being athletic, he gave me freedom to develop my confidence on all 3 levels of scoring, while teaching me how to defend better and I appreciate him for that.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Javian Davis?

Those 1v1 days used to be a battle indeed, I would have to say we ended in a tie for now.

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

Naiz Reid

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Von Julien- SELU Charles Callison- MBC Ledarrius Brewer Tyren Johnson KB & Moses Greenwood- SELU

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe LeBron MJ Scottie Pippen Kyrie

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe

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

I haven’t seen it yet so I won’t judge it right now.

Thanks Ty for the chat.

Jamie Edoka Powers The Skyliners Juniors to the 75-63 Victory Over TSV Oberaching Tropics

The seventh placed Skyliners Juniors continued to play good basketball in the last weeks having won 3 of their last 4 games including a 87-61 on the road against the always pesky Ehingen team who like Frankfurt have many talented young players. With the regular season going into the last stage, every game is important for the jockeying of the playoff places. Frankfurt didn´t have an easy opponent this weekend as they had the TSV Oberaching Tropics who despite being banged up for weeks and not having a full roster still had a positive 9-8 record and were in fifth place. Head coach Mario Matic who was a easyCredit BBL player in 2008 with Nordlingen has done a great job for years keeping players and developing a great team chemistry. Oberaching had a positive 3-2 record since the new year, but only 3-5 on the road. Frankfurt had to say farewell to veteran Philipp Hadenfeldt who for a second time in the last 2 seasons took a semester abroad this time in Italy. But they had hauled in Finish point guard Chuki Chukwuma who had been solid in his first 3 games including 28 points against the RheinStars Cologne. On a cold Sunday evening, both teams met in the BCM in Frankfurt and saw a very low scoring and tight first half, but in the second half the Skyliners Juniors found to their game better and took control and in the end won easily 75-63. “In the first half we didn´t really have a good offensive flow, but our defense was pretty good. We had a few individual mistakes and they over gambled a bit. In the third quarter we upped our defense allowing only 6 points. That helped us get good control of the game which we kept to the end”, stressed Skyliner Junior Jamie Edoka (195-G-2008). The TSV Oberaching Tropics as usual weren´t complete again as captain Janosch Koegler was sick and Jorg Dippold was injured. They stuck with Frankfurt for a half, but in the second half just couldn´t keep up their consistent defense from the first half as the Juniors executed well and played great inside out basketball. “We didn´t have the necessary energy, concentration and focus tonight. We were satisfied at the break that we were only down by 1 point. We didn´t play a good first half. We had a slow start in the third quarter and that carried over until the end”, stressed TSV Oberaching Tropics guard Omari Knox.

Chuko Chukwuma at the FT line

The first quarter was a back and forth battle with 5 lead changes where no club could get away from the other. Both teams were concentrating more on getting the ball inside. Ex IBAM center Fynn Fischer who played 3 BBL games scored twice while Frankfurt got a bucket from big man Malik Kordel and a basket by Jamie Edoka as the game was dead locked 7-7. 38 year old Omari Know who averaged 22,0ppg in 8 Regionalliga seasons showed he can score in bunches as he presented his deadly mid range game for the 11-7 Tropics lead. Jamie Edoka who turned 17 years old a few weeks ago continued to play with crazy self confidence hitting a trey to trail only 11-10. The Tropics continued to find Fynn Fischer as he made 2 lay in´s to keep Oberaching ahead 15-12. Three´s hadn´t been on the menu, but ex Hanau guard Bruno Albrecht nailed a trey to tie the game at 15-15. The guests had the narrow 19-17 lead after 10 minutes getting free throws from Fischer and a lay in from birthday boy Philipp Bode. TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 47% from the field while Frankfurt was at 33%. Both teams couldn´t hit the ocean from outside as combined they were 2/12. Frankfurt dominated the paint area 12-6 with 3-0 offensive rebounds while their plague of coughing up the ball continued as they had 7 turnovers and TSV Oberaching Tropics only 3. “We knew that it would be a hard game. They like to bump you a lot. We aren´t used to that. We had no offensive rhythm as their pick and roll defense was good as they slowed down our side pick and roll”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich.

Omari Knox with the step back

The second quarter continued to be low scoring as the TSV Oberaching Tropics led by as much as 9 points, but the Skyliners Juniors never stopped fighting and came back and had the 1 point lead at half-time. The TSV Oberaching Tropics came out with a lethal 9-2 run to extend their lead to 28-19. In the run The TSV Oberaching Tropics played aggressive defense and forced turnovers with their quick guards Bode and Jukic. Omari Knox added 4 points including a three pointer and Fynn Fischer and Jukic added lay in´s. Frankfurt´s offense was ok and had good looks, but they weren´t capable to hit open shots. But basketball wouldn´t be basketball without runs as now it was time for Frankfurt. Frankfurt buckled down and heightened their defensive pressure and finally started to hit shots as they escaped out on a 13-3 run to take back the lead 32-31. In the run the Skyliners Juniors got massive support from Jamie Edoka who led the offense with his leadership and scored twice while Chuko Chukwuma scored 2 three´s. “Jamie is a Pro B rookie, but plays like he has been in the league for 5 years. He just does the job and always finds a solution on offense. He reads the defense so well. Last year he had problems with the trap, but he has improved so much. He also played good defense on Omari Knox”, stated Skyliner Junior Florian Dietrich. Maximillian Peters also added a step back jumper from the wing. Frankfurt´s high energy and aggressiveness on defense led to Tropics turnovers while the Tropics defense were a bit weak on the 1-1 defense. Fynn Fischer closed out the second quarter with an old school hook shot. “We played more pick and roll through the middle. They didn´t ice as well so we got more three pointers”, commented Florian Dietrich. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 29% from the three point line and had 23 rebounds and 13 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 35% from the field and 8% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Jamie Edoka with the step back

In the third quarter the Skyliners Juniors were able to take total control of the game and led by as much as 14 points and after 30 minutes led by 12 points. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got on the board first as ex Fc Bayern basketball 2 German Maxwell Dongmo Temoka made a lay in to give Oberaching the 33-32 advantage. The Skyliners Juniors then exploded for a 10-0 run to capture back the lead at 42-33. In the run Jamie Edoka continued to be in attack mode as he scored with 2 drives, Bruno Albrecht added 4 points and versatile German Marvin Esser made a runner. Frankfurt tightened up their defense as they would only allow 6 points. Their help defense was their biggest strength in the quarter. TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t match Frankfurt´s intensity and their 1-1 defense couldn´t contain the Juniors attackers. Fischer stopped the Frankfurt run with a hook shot, but Frankfurt punched back with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 49-35. In the run Frankfurt got 3 free throws from Bruno Albrecht, a massive dunk from Dusan Nikolic from the wing and a big 2 handed dunk by Marvin Esser who received the bullet pass from Namori Omog. “He has a special knack of seeing his teammates”, said Jamie Edoka. The TSV Oberaching Tropics closed out the third quarter with a lay in by Maxwell Dongmo Temoka to trail 49-37. “Our offensive flow was very good. We had one good situation which led to another good situation. That helped raise our self-confidence. We knew they would go inside. Our help defense was excellent. We know we have to help each other because we are all like family”, added Namori Omog. “We had a lack of focus and mis communication on defense. They did a good job hitting shots”, expressed Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors shot 36% from the field and 22% from the parking lot and had 35 rebounds and 16 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 29% from the field and 5% from the parking lot and had 32 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

Maxwell Dongmo Temoka at the FT line

In the fourth quarter both teams had their respective best scoring quarters in the game as both scored 26 points a piece, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t get over the hump as they couldn´t get stops. Fans also saw a few more spectacular dunks to go home content. The TSV Oberaching Tropics got good support from ex Tuebingen playedr Niklas Schueler with 2 baskets while Frankfurt received lay in´s from Albrecht and Chuwuma and a trey from Maximillian Peters, but the TSV Oberaching Tropics couldn´t make any ground as Frankfurt led 56-43. Despite having only a 8 man rotation, the TSV Oberaching Tropics still had some energy left in their gas tank as they broke out on a 9-2 run to trail only 58-52. In the run ex BBL player Peter Zeis was aggressive scoring 5 points including a three pointer while Dongmo Temoka and Schueler made lay in´s. “We lost a little concentration. But the good thing about our team is that we are always able to catch ourselves”, stated Jamie Edoka. But the Skyliners Juniors fought back going on a 9-4 run to extend their lead to 67-56. In the run it was Jamie Edoka who made a lay in while Chukwuma also scored in the paint area and Bruno Albrecht hit a trey. Malik Kordel ended the run in massive fashion with a poster dunk on Dongmo Temoka. “Dongmo was hyped up I think. You should never try to jump with Malik. Nobody can stop him”, warned Jamie Edoka. Zeis stopped the run with a trey, but Edoka connected again with a trey as time in and time out, he hit big shots for the 70-59 lead. “With Hadenfeldt gone, I know that I have to show even more responsibility. I´m ready for it. I know that I have too many turnovers, but I´m working on it. I´m always ready to take the big shots”, warned Jamie Edoka. Knox did add a trey, but Frankfurt closed out the game strong with a Kordel alley-oop dunk and Chukwuma three pointer. “We pushed the ball and got the ball inside and got easy baskets in our run, but Frankfurt got their offense going again and hit three´s stated Omari Knox. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Jamie Edoka with 21 points while Bruno Albrecht added 16 points and Chuko Chukwuma 15 points while the TSV Oberaching Tropics were led by Fynn Fischer with 16 points while Maxwell Dongmo Temoka added 12 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 46% from the field and 31% from outside and had 44 rebounds and 23 turnovers while the TSV Oberaching Tropics shot 37% from the field and 11% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

German Hoops

Covering Basketball In Germany!

NCAA

Basketball Globetrotter Luke Moyer Will Always Have Massive Love For The Country Georgia Winning Titles There And Saving His Dog

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

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

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

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

Elijah Pemberton Turned Heads With His 3 Point Shooting In Belgium And Now Wants To Finish The Season Strong With The MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg

Bo Hodges(Uni Baskets Munster) Does Whatever His Team Needs To Win

Tyler Stephenson-Moore Has That Derrick White in Him Being Known As A Great Shooter But Really Can Do It All On The Court

Ty Brewer(Syntanics MBC Weissenfels) Knows They Have To Keep Their Emotions In Check And Bring Constant Energy Against FC Bayern Munich In The BBL Cup

Jamie Edoka Powers The Skyliners Juniors to the 75-63 Victory Over TSV Oberaching Tropics