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Derreck Brooks Jr Will Never Forget Matthias Grothe For Seeing Something In Him And Letting Him Put His Foot In The Door To Start Career

Derreck Brooks Jr. (198-G-1994, college: Cent Arkansas) Jr is a 31 year old 198cm guard that has played overseas for 8 seasons and recently played with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt (Germany-ProB) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 80.4% and helped them reach the Pro B final. Overseas he has played in countries like Portugal, Sweden and Austria. He began his basketball career with Desert Ridge high school and then played a year at Phoenix College (JUCO). He then played 2 seasons at Central Arkansas University (NCAA) averaging 12.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 78.3% and as a senior averaged13.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 82.2%. He spoke to germanhoops about his basketball career.

Thanks Derreck for talking to germanhoops.com You have played in countries like Germany, Sweden, Portugal and Austria. Where has been your favorite place to play?

Portugal of course. If you’ve ever been, you know why.

Last season you played with the Unger Steel Gunners Oberwart (Austria-BSL) averaging 11.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 74.5%. You won your first pro chip. What was so special about that team?

Everybody just believed in each other – from Horst all the way down to the last player on the bench to the trainer ; it was beautiful.

You had exciting playoff series against Gmunden and Traiskirchen and swept UBSC Graz. What will you always remember from that thrilling 81-80 game 3 win?

I just remember looking around in a huddle towards the end of the game, looking in my guys eyes and nobody ever questioned if we were going to win that game. We knew.

You played the 22-23 season with KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 14.5ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 76.8%. What memories do you have of that season? Norrkoping seemed to have your number that season?

I played with one of the best PG in Sweden and bonded with the city in a way I have never done anywhere else I played. Left that season with people I will consider family for the rest of time. Norrkoping had everybody’s number that year and every other year. But we made them work in the playoffs

You played the 21-22 season with Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 13.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 83.3%. That was a short season for you. How tough was that season and what did you learn that season?

I mean that season is when I hurt my back, pretty traumatically and it was right when I was finding my flow. Just taught me you can’t dwell on what could’ve been, life is about being malleable

You played 3 seasons in Portugal and in your first season played with Terceira Basket SUSIARTE (Portugal-LPB) averaging 21.7ppg), 6.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 84.5%. How enjoyable was that season? Was that your best season stat wise?

Professionally of course it was my best season stat wise. Really enjoyed being on the island and bonding with that team. I really came into my own as a leader and player there and I’m forever thankful for all those guys.

In your second season you split time with U.D. Oliveirense (Portugal-LPB) averaging 8.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg, in Dec.’19 moved to S.C. Lusitania EXPERT (Portugal-LPB) averaging 9.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 92.9%. What memories do you have of that season? Was this the season where you learned that basketball will always be a business first?

I always knew it was a business. The season actually taught me to focus more off the court because everybody is watching us and I need to take my responsibility more seriously.

In your third season in Portugal you played with Galitos-Barreiro (Portugal-LPB) averaging 15.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 84.2%. You had some big games that season. How vital was this season to get your career back on track again?

I have to thank my guy Hugo Salgado, my coach from Terceira. He always saw something in me and embraced me. He has helped me in literally every way and HE put me in a position to get my career back in track, along with my teammates.

You played your rookie season at Phoenix Hagen. What was your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?

Man the whole season was a wake up call. I struggled in every way imaginable – the time difference, communication with family, I was in a relationship, on court – literally everything.

What memories do you have of Matthias Grothe? You only knew him for a short time, but he had such a big impact in the organization.

I never actually got to meet him in person but we talked a bit on the phone. I always say I appreciate him for seeing something in me and letting me put my foot in the door to start my career. I know he is a legend and that never was understated while i was there, may be rest in peace and thank you again Matthias.

You played at Phoenix College (JUCO) averaging 16.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 45.4%, FT: 81.0%. Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO said it was a grind but one of best experiences of their lives. How was it for you?

A lot of ups and downs but man the pay off on that grind is unmatched. You see guys come and go on your team and all the others. No team was the same at the end of the season as when they started which is a testament to the grind.

You won a JUCO title. What was so special about that group of guys?

Just some hungry dogs man. Simple as that.

You played at Central Arkansas University (NCAA) from 2015-2017 averaging 12.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 78.3% and 13.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 82.2%. How did your game grow at the NCAA level?

i think the key was just learning the work that goes into behind the scenes. I put in a lot of work in our practice gym with our coaches to get better and i saw the results. This is when i really fell in love with the process of trying to be a pro.

In your senior year you held your own against schools like Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona State and Oklahoma State. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA?

Hahaha, we in no way held our own. We got WHOOPED. My fondest memory was when we went to France on our trip and for a lot of our first time in Europe and we enjoyed it

How did head coach Russ Pennell groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He coached quite a few pros so he always had us prepared to play. I have known him since I was a freshman in high school so he really knew my game and how to coach me.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Matieu Kamba?

Me. Are you crazy??? Ask anybody from that team, nobody beats me in king of the court, respectfully.

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the pro B this season?

Those young guys from Ulm gave us a different look. I really liked their game. Tough wouldn’t be the word but I enjoyed competing with them

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

I can’t remember if he actually made it to the league but Xavier Rathan-Mayes.

busted my ass in AAU.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

1. Sebastian Kaferle

2. Feliciano Perez

3. Pedro Rodrigues

4. Lj rose

5. Siyani Chambers

Please name your NBA and Euro Mount Rushmore of 4-5 best players of all-time for you?

1. Mike James – portland legend

2. Boris Diaw

3. Nic Batum

4. Dwight Howard

5. Brandon Roy

Who is your GOAT?

BORIS DIAW.

Thanks Derreck for the chat.

In Hagen Derreck Brooks Jr Was Just Happy To Be There But Now With Wolmirstedt He Knows How To Impact The Game

Derreck Brooks Jr. (198-G-1994, college: Cent Arkansas) is a 31 year old 198cm guard that has played overseas for 8 seasons and recently played with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt (Germany-ProB) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 80.4% and helped them reach the Pro B final. Overseas he has played in countries like Portugal, Sweden and Austria. He began his basketball career with Desert Ridge high school and then played a year at Phoenix College (JUCO). He then played 2 seasons at Central Arkansas University (NCAA) averaging 12.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 78.3% and as a senior averaged13.8ppg, 7.2rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 82.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2024-2025 Pro B season with Wolmirstedt.

Thanks Derreck for talking to germanhoops.com and congrats on a great season with Wolmirstedt. I always thought Wolmirstedt was deep but was Leverkusen possibly the deeper team?

No, I don’t think so honestly. I don’t think they beat us because they were deeper than us. Not to mention we had two injuries to guys that play major minutes.

How tough was the 76-53 loss at home? You split the season series 1-1, but hadn´t played against them since 4 months. How were they better than in January 2025 when you last played them?

I mean we knew it would be an uphill battle after that loss; not impossible but the odds weren’t in our favor. I think compared to January they were more solidified in their principles and roles, along with their game plan.

Leverkusen defended very well and with Dennis Heinzman in the middle a real rim protector. How key was the rebounding and lack of three point shooting for the loss?

I mean obviously if you have a 7 footer in pro b you’re playing with an extreme advantage and we were missing a big in Fabi and our best rebounder in Mo. So, yeah we got our ass kicked on the boards. As for the shooting, I knew the percentages would taper off because up until playing them, we were making everything.

Wolmirstedt has always been very ambitious and has wanted to move up since years. If someone had told you in September 2024 that the team would move up in 2025 what would you have thought?

I would’ve said that’s the only reason I’m here.

What is so special about the Wolmirstedt basketball culture? What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

I think we had one of, if not the best home court advantage in the league. Our crowd is relentless and I loved it.

The chemistry was great and the teams cored a lot and belonged to the best defensive teams in the Pro B north. What was this season´s team´s biggest strength? Perhaps “TEAM” as there was no big star?

Our biggest strength was strength in numbers. I think there’s guys with so many different skills on our team we can give teams a different look with every lineup we choose. That makes us harder to scout and predict.

How key was head coach Eiko Potthast in the success? What do you believe was his biggest strength as a coach`?

He put this team together so without that we wouldn’t be here having this interview.

Let´s talk a little about your teammates. Bill Borekambi has been there since 2021 and one of the leaders. He is a walking bucket and can score in so many ways. What do you appreciate most about his game and what is your favorite move from him?

I mean I think everybody’s favorite move from B is the fadeaway. More legendary than Dirks if you ask me. Bill is as solid as they come and I’m glad we could send him off that way.

Talk a little about the other American import Eamonn Joyce. What did you appreciate most about their# games this season?

E plays at his own pace and there’s nothing you can do to speed him up. He can shoot, get to the rim and his pump/pass fake worked every damn time. All that in limited minutes- elite.

Martin Bogdanov is also one of the leaders. How vital has his game and leadership been for the success?

Boggy was probably the most consistent this season with his leadership and overall play. He also plays with his own pace that a lot of teams couldn’t figure out. I respect his game a lot

Fabien Kondo made a huge jump in his game from last season. Was he one of the most improved players on the squad?

Fabi is going to have a great career. We asked so much of him and it was a lot of things that don’t show up on the stat sheet. I have a lot of respect for that young man’s work ethic and game. Looking forward to watching his journey.

You averaged 11/4/1 stats. How content were you with your game?

Very.

You had many great games in the German Pro A. What was your favorite game?

Probably that game against berlin at home or the last game against Essen to get promoted.

Will you remain with Wolmirstedt and is your game ready for the Pro A again? How are you a better player now than with Phoenix Hagen?

Ha, of course my game is ready for Pro A. in Hagen I was playing like I was happy to be there and trying to figure how to fit in. now, I know I am and how I can help a team and impact the game. My game is more mature in every way.

Thanks Derreck for the chat.

Eamonn Joyce Credits Wolmirstedt´s Chemistry And Unselfishness For Producing Such A Successful Season

pic credit: Blendwerk

Eamonn Joyce (208-F-1997, college: SNHU, agency: One Motive Sports) is a 28 year old 208cm forward from Woodstock, Connecticut that played his 5th pro season overseas and first with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt averaging 9,0ppga nd 4,0rpg and reached the Pro B final. Last season he played with San Martin Corrientes (Argentina-La Liga) playing 12 games averaging 3.0ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2022-2023 he played with BMS Herlev Wolfpack (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 14.3ppg, 8.0rpg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 83.7%. In 2021-2022 he played with BK IMMOunited Dukes Klosterneuburg (Austria-BSL) averaging 9.5ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 80.4%. He played his rookie season with Almere Sailors (Holland-DBL) averaging 10.9ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 61.8%. He began his basketball career with the Hyde school and then played 4 years and 119 NCAA 2 games with Southern New Hampshire and averaged 18.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 66.9% as a senior. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his great season with Wolmirstedt.

Thanks Eamonn for talking to germanhoops.com and congrats on a great season with Wolmirstedt. I always thought Wolmirstedt was deep but was Leverkusen possibly the deeper team?

I feel like we were clear cut the two best teams in the league, I wouldn’t say they were a deeper team then us, we had 8 guys averaging 10+ in the playoffs, hats off to their defense though, that’s what really sets them apart, their coach knows what he’s doing over there.

How tough was the 76-53 loss at home? You split the season series 1-1, but hadn´t played against them since 4 months. How were they better than in January 2025 when you last played them?

They were more defensively sound towards the end of the year, and we didn’t necessarily shoot well in that game Leverkusen defended very well and with Dennis Heinzman in the middle a real rim protector.

How key was the rebounding and lack of three point shooting for the loss?

Those are the two main reasons we lost, if we played them fully healthy with Fabi and Mo, I think the outcomes may have been a little different. And they did a good job taking away the 3, that affected us since we were shooting 43% as a team from 3 in the playoffs.

What was the game plan going into the second game in Leverkusen? What was key for not getting the win? Leverkusen rebounded very well again?

The game plan was to go out there and try and end the season on a win, but for us the semis and getting the promotion was more so our championship, that was the main goal was to get promoted, Leverkusen did rebound very well in that series

Wolmirstedt has always been very ambitious and has wanted to move up since years. If someone had told you in September 2024 that the team would move up in 2025 what would you have thought?

In September no I didn’t think we were going to move up, but after Christmas we just came together and something clicked, we went on to win 17 straight games if I’m not mistaken, after we beat Paderbon by 40 at home, I knew we could do something special

What is so special about the Wolmirstedt basketball culture? What have you learned to appreciate most about the organization?

The special thing is it’s really family like, from the coaches and office management down to the players and everyone in between, the fan love is also amazing, those two things I really appreciated

The chemistry was great and the teams cored a lot and belonged to the best defensive teams in the Pro B north. What was this season´s team´s biggest strength? Perhaps “TEAM” as there was no big star?

The strength was our chemistry and unselfishness, we knew we had 9/10 guys we could really rely on, and knowing that as a unit and becoming comfortable with fully trusting each other, that’s what separated us, we didn’t rely on one person

How key was head coach Eiko Potthast in the success? What do you believe was his biggest strength as a coach`?

Eiko was very important in the win and keeping us together and holding us to a standard. His biggest strength is his connection with his players and the relationship he builds with them

Let´s talk a little about your teammates. Bill Borekambi has been there since 2021 and one of the leaders. He is a walking bucket and can score in so many ways. What do you appreciate most about his game and what is your favorite move from him?

Bill is my guy, his game is real complete, he’s a guard stuck in that body, I appreciate his leadership the most and just his presence, he’s really a great teammate. My favorite move bill got is his little turn around jumper, he makes it at such a high clip it’s like a layup for him

Talk a little about the other American import Derreck Brooks Jr. What did you appreciate most about his game this season?

Derreck got the ability to go out there and control a game on both ends, he’s a real 2 way player, I think he led our team in blocks.

Martin Bogdanov is also one of the leaders. How vital has his game and leadership been for the success?

Boggys a dawg, his leadership and playmaking was super key for us, he does a tremendous job controlling the game too.

Fabien Kondo made a huge jump in his game from last season. Was he one of the most improved players on the squad?

Fabi was easily one of the most improved players, his work ethic is second to none, he’s very good on the defensive end, he’s going to have an amazing career, it hurt not having him in the championship

You averaged 9/4 stats. How content were you with your game?

I was content with my numbers this year for only playing 20 mins a game, my splits are great so it shows my efficiency when I do have the ball, and I think the highest player on our team was averaging 12, we were very balanced

How do you feel did your game grow in the Pro B? You had a lot of talent around you which obviously made you better.

The talent makes it easier but I feel like I finally got to play my game again, when I was in Argentina I was really limited and didn’t get much opportunity, coach trusted me here.

You shot 40% during the season the best in your career. You kept your word. What was the secret to accomplishing that?

Just reps, and confidence, it was important to me to showcase my shot making this year

You shot an amazing 10/16 in the playoffs. Is this something to build on for the next season?

This is certainly something to build on, I really look forward to getting back into the gym this summer

You had many great games in the German Pro A. What was your favorite game?

Essen game 1 of the semis, I think I only missed 2 shots, getting in the zone like that is the best feeling

Will you remain with Wolmirstedt or will you continue your Globetrotter ways and discover a new country again?

I don’t know what’s going to happen, we will see what the offseason brings, hopefully I get some good opportunities

What are your plans for the summer? Will you visit any new places before getting back in the lab?

No I’ve been gone for almost 10 months, home is vacation at this point

What will be the first eatery that you will check out when you arrive at home?

Easily stop by Eddie V’s or grill 23 for a great steakhouse dinner

Thanks Eamonn for the chat

KJ Sherril Starts A New Coaching Chapter With The EPG Guardians Koblenz

KJ Sherrill (203-F/C-1991, college: Augusta) is a 33 year old 203cm forward that enjoyed a 8 year pro playing career overseas. He played with the Bona Baskets Limburg, the SG Luetzel-Post Koblenz (Germany-Regionalliga), Dragons Rhondorf, Telekom Baskets Bonn 2 team, Herten and the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA). He played college ball at Charlotte (NCAA) from 2009-2012 playing 75 NCAA games and also played a season at Augusta University (NCAA2). He was an assistant coach with the Dragons Rhondorf from 2023-2025 and now will be an assistant with Pro A team EPG Guardians Koblenz. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 24-25 season with the Dragons Rhondorf and his future with the EPG Guardians Koblenz.

Thanks KJ for talking to germanhoops.com. It was a tough season for the Dragons Rhondorf. Was it still a minor success for reaching the playoffs?

Yes definitely was a tough season for us, but I take it as a learning experience. I’d say it was an unexpected accomplishment for us making it to the playoffs.

Still the Dragons gave all they had in their last home game. How proud were you of the team and how they played?

We knew the game was going to be a very tough one, Leverkusen was the best team in the league but the effort we gave that game was great! If we played the same way the whole season, we would’ve also been a top team. I’m very proud how we fought against them. We showed heart!

The second quarter in game 2 against Leverkusen was the best defensive quarter of the season for the Dragons. How special was it for you being a part of that?

It was great seeing our guys making consecutive stops and being very engaged as a team defensively. I believed at that moment we were very hungry and wanted to prove that it wasn’t going to be easy for Leverkusen as to what people were thinking it would be.

The Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs. What is your season summary? It seemed like the Dragons had the talent to get further or not?

Overall I think the season was a big learning experience for us all, even us coaches. We had a very young and talented team with great vets, but not practicing with a complete team daily was a bit frustrating for us all. Unfortunately, it showed on the court with the way we lost games.

Can one say the season was up and down? The team never had more than a 2 game winning streak. What do you believe hindered the team from winning more games?

The season definitely was a roller coaster but I think we were beyond a better team than what our ranking says. Our biggest problem was not playing as one unit, but also everyone not practicing with one another daily was the issue.

Defense was a problem. How did you see the development of the defense and the team overall this season? Was it able to develop further?

Defense is best when the whole team is on the same page. Communicating and making stops is what we lacked, but when we did show it, we could stop any team!

How did you see the development of the young players? Was there a player that developed the best? Perhaps Josh Behrend?

My relationship with the young guys was amazing! Josh, Dyami, Kenan, and Aurel all developed over the season in my eyes. Each one worked out their game daily, even when there were times neither guy played in games. They never complained and always came to practice ready to work. They all have my biggest respect!

How did you see the development of Tim Smith Jr? Is he ready for the Pro A?

Tim Smith Jr was one of the best scorers in the league. To see his worth ethnic was great and I know for sure he’s ready for Pro A. Really hope he gets the opportunity. I know he will succeed no matter where he plays.

How did you see the development of Alex Lagerman? He took on more responsibility in the second half of the season.

I would say Alex Lagermann was by far one of our best scorers. His ability to get to the rim but also knock down three pointers was phenomenal. Alex showed us that he could be one of our best scorers on the team, he definitely took on a great role in the 2nd half with his elite scoring.

Who was the most improved player on the Dragons team?

Most improved goes to Lagui Diallo. Even if he didn’t get the biggest opportunity and didn’t have a big role, he had the hardest work ethic and he practiced hard every single day.

Who was the MVP of the season for the Dragons?

MVP goes to Tim Smith Jr.

Welcome back to Koblenz. How happy are you to be part of the Guardians coaching staff?

Very happy and grateful for the opportunity to be back in Koblenz with a new role but I’m even more excited to be coaching with Stephan Dorhn and Kai Shallenberg. Excited to coach in the EPG Arena and make my coaching debut in Pro A.

How excited to be coaching in the Pro A? What will be your biggest coaching quality that you will give the EPG Guardians?

My biggest role will be player development. Training the guys individually as well as in practices. I also will help them become as comfortable as possible by building trust. The more comfortable they are on the court the better they will play.

In 2020, you played your last Regionalliga game there and 3 years later the club was in the Pro A via the Pro B. Did you see that coming?

I knew with the potential the Koblenz organization had, that they would strive to make it to the top leagues.

You played 2 seasons in Koblenz. What was your fondest moment on the court there?

My 2 years in Koblenz was very nice! We were successful on the court, but the relationship I built with my teammates was the best. Players like Yassin Mahfouz and Zaire Thompson made playing for Koblenz exciting. Best moments had to be winning games with them being apart of the success.

How much respect do you have for Thomas Klein? Is there a basketball manager in Germany that has more heart for their team than him?

My respect level is beyond high for Thomas Klein. His passion for the club is like no other. I am great appreciative for him allowing me to rejoin the club. Couldn’t be anymore happier!

You and Dohrn were very successful in Rhondorf. How confident are you that the EPG Guardians will also be successful now with you?

We are hoping that we can keep the same success while in Koblenz. We know things may get tough, but us coaches have a strong bond and we will get the guys in the right position to win. I’m very confident!

Unfortunately Kelvin Omojola won´t follow you, because he has retired and will seek his masters at UNLV. How proud are you of his decision?

Sad to see Kelvin retiring but the opportunity he has is great for him! When he told me the news I was happy for him and very proud! A lot of people don’t get that opportunity, so he deserves it!

I always sensed that you had a great relationship with Kelvin. What will you miss most from him?

Kelvin will definitely be the one who I miss the most. We’ve spent 2 years together and have built a brotherhood. Not seeing him or hearing his jokes everyday will be highly missed.

You had many great memories together. What was your nicest memory with him?

The memories Kelvin and I have are endless. Being with each other every day for the last 2 season has created so many memories. Maybe us having our German Lessons together will be the best memories and of course him playing the biggest role in us winning the Pro B championship.

It looks like OKC will meet Indiana in the NBA final. Will SGA be to much for Haliburton? Who will win it all?

I’m hoping SGA takes home the trophy! One of the best guards in the league.

Thanks KJ for the chat.

Kelvin Omojola Was Half Way To Koblenz But Instead Retires For A New No Brainer Opportunity In Las Vegas

Sometimes beautiful things just come to an end. For 2 seasons, Kelvin Omojola (183-G-1997, college: Northwest) was my Quantez Robertson. For 14 seasons, my favorite and most asked interview partner with the Frankfurt Skyliners was Quantez Robertson. I´m the kind of guy that seeks a guy with whom I feel comfortable with and where I know, I will get good answers from for my articles. Quantez Robertson was that guy during his Frankfurt career whom I would pester after almost every game as well as calling him during the season on different occasions to get good basketball answers for my work. In 2023 he retired after 14 seasons and he achieved 68 eurobasket/germanhoops titles from me not to mention countless quotes after games in my articles. Tez and my interview relationship ended, but that fall a new one was invented with Kelvin Omojola and me. We hit it off pretty quickly and I began to interview almost always after every home game. He not only was charismatic and always smiling, but he gave incredible answers that always helped let my articles shine. In his 2 seasons with the Dragons Rhondorf, he made 14 titles for Eurobasket and German Hoops. Unfortunately our interview sessions have come to an end. I was hoping that they would possibly continue in Koblenz, but he was half way to Koblenz when instead he decided to retire for a new no brainer opportunity in Las Vegas. “I 1000% would have went with Coach Stephan & Coach KJ to Koblenz but I was able to earn a Graduate Assistant position at UNLV! A full scholarship to get my Master’s Degree, with employment working with UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute. It’s an amazing opportunity and even though I had more than a few years left in me, it’s a great transition for my next career after basketball”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It would have been amazing to see the ex Rhondorf trio of Dohrn, Sherril and Omojola in Koblenz and who knows, they may also have been joined by Badu Buck. “That would have been Amazing Miles. Our championship season was special, we had a great group of guys who were not only high level players, but great characters on and off the court. And if I was going, Badu would have no choice but to come along as well. He knows that!! I love Badu haha, one of my favorite teammates ever”, stated Kelvin Omojola.

After 4 professional seasons, the pro career of Kelvin Omojola who lists Branden Maughmer (He was my matchup and that’s how I determine the toughest player. We played him first round in the playoffs in 2024, and he was cooking! He could shoot, great handle, get to his spots, play defense and get his teammates involved. He didn’t just jack up shots or hold the ball the whole game either, he was playing great basketball) as his toughest Pro B opponent has ended as he will pursue new interesting goals in his home town of Las Vegas. He received only 1 of 2 scholarships for his masters degree at the University Of Nevada Las Vegas. This was something that didn´t suddenly matriculate, but something he had been thinking about for a longer time. “I’m always trying to think ahead and plan my next steps. I’ve been that way for years, I wanted to give myself an opportunity to set my next career up after basketball. I didn’t want to finish playing and not have a plan, so I pursued the route of me going back to school and getting my Master’s. I would have started to get my Master’s Degree regardless this upcoming Fall. So if I was still playing, I would have started my Master’s Degree in Germany. But to get this opportunity, especially at a big school like UNLV, it was an easy decision Miles”, said Kelvin Omojola. He is more than blessed that he can go back to school and be at home. “It doesn’t get any better than that Miles. I haven’t lived in Vegas full time since 2018 so to be back now it’s a blessing. I’ll be doing a little bit of work already starting in June, but the work will officially start in August. I’ll be getting my Master’s in Intercollegiate & Professional Sport Management. I’ve always had a passion for sports and there are so many elements that go into having a successful sports program. I was first exposed to those elements when I was at UNLV for me – As for my role with UNLV’s Sports Innovation Institute, yes it’ll be a Marketing & Operations position”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He is also very fortunate that he will also be involved not only with the UNLV basketball program, but also other teams. “The UNLV’s Sport Innovation Institute works with all of the teams at UNLV & all of the Professional Sports teams here. The Raiders, the Aces, UFC, Golden Knights, you name it. The capacity of the work that it would consist of wouldn’t be coaching however”, added Kelvin Omojola.

The 28 year old guard who played like a mix of Steph Curry and Kyle Lowery and lists the following just off the top of his head as his best teammates of all-time with DJ Woodmore, Ben Shungu, Avery Sullivan, Badu Buck, Lorenzo Cugini, Bazou Kone, Ferenc Gille, Dom Von Waaden, Marko Rosic, Tyreese Blunt, and Darian Cardenas was fortunate to have played all 4 pro seasons in Germany and it was obvious that Deutschland became like a second home for him. “As you know, my mom is from Munich. So being able to be here in Germany for the past 4 years, I felt at home. It was a great 4 years that really flew by. Who knows, maybe in the future I’ll be back here in Germany working as a GM for a club”, smiled Kelvin Omojola. He played his rookie season with the Ahorn Camp BIS Baskets Speyer (Germany-ProB) averaging 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 71.8%. He will never forget head coach Carl Mbassa who gave him his fist pro job. “I’m beyond thankful for Coach Carl. He’s such a great person and a great coach. He let me grow as a player and didn’t handcuff me at all. He allowed me to play through mistakes and always told me to be aggressive. Whenever I took a bad shot, he never said anything to me. He wanted me to remain confident, aggressive, and that helped me so much as a player from a skill aspect and a mental aspect”, warned Kelvin Omojola. He was also so fortunate to have a veteran like DJ Woodmore showing him the ropes and more. The advice that he got from him was priceless. “DJ Woodmore took me under his wing and I learned so much from him. I really do view him as a brother. He’s a TRUE professional, beyond skilled on the basketball court, and he taught me a lot off the court as well. I’m beyond grateful that he was my vet, he taught me so much and our relationship is still strong to this day. I love DJ and he knows that”, said Kelvin Omojola. He played his first playoff series against Wedel and his future head coach Stephan Dohrn and had to suffer a tough 1 point loss in game 3 to end his season. “We had that series! Coach Stephan knows that too! That series hurt because we knew we could beat Wedel and we should have. Marc Liyanage could only play home games at that point of the season so not having him on the road hurt us a lot. He gave us that veteran presence; With his skill set and basketball IQ, not having him in games 1 & 3 hurt us a lot”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He had his 2 best Pro B scoring games as a rookie against Frankfurt and always enjoyed battling against them. “Frankfurt would always be special. Ofcourse having my best 2 scoring games helps haha, but it was always fun playing Frankfurt. Literally every single game I’ve played against them in my career was a great game that came down to the wire. This season, being able to beat them at their house for the only time in my career was great. It’s tough to play there and they always play well at home”, explained Kelvin Omojola.

In his second pro season, the 3 level scorer moved up a level to the Pro A and laced them up for PS Karlsruhe. He only averaged 3,1ppg in 12 minutes of action. “It was tough Miles, because for the first half of the season, I was averaging over 8 points a game. Which is solid, especially for my first year in ProA. But we weren’t winning games, so when the team brought in Ben from Ludwigsburg, my minutes got cut substantially. Going from playing solid minutes to getting 30 seconds – 4 minutes a game is tough. It also destroys your averages. But, it’s a part of the game and I learned a lot that season. I had great teammates and learned how to compete at a high level, which helped when I went to the Dragons the next season”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. It didn´t help his minutes that he had 3 talented guards also striving for minutes with Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone as he was the odd man out, but that also had other advantages. “Yes, that was the case Miles. But that backcourt of Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone was elite. Every day in practice was a BATTLE. I got so much better competing against them, they’re all so skilled and they all had different play styles. Defending Baz would be different than guarding Ben. I had to be locked in every practice, every day. But it was a blessing”, remembered Kelvin Omojola. Despite not playing much that season, he has fond memories and has a favorite game and had a few tough opponents. “When we played Tübingen at home. It was my best game of the year, super efficient game with 12 points and we beat them which was most important. I always say this Miles, it would be Ben Shungu, Lovell Cabbil and Bazou Kone. Defending and competing against those guys challenged me and grew my game. It helped me become a stronger player and develop mental toughness”, explained Kelvin Omojola. That PS Karlsruhe won the pro A title the next season didn´t surprise him at all with head coach Alexsandar Scepanovic. “ He’s a great coach. We went to the semifinals when I was there. So the next year, him winning the championship wasn’t a surprise. His schemes, especially defensively are the best I’ve ever seen”, warned Kelvin Omojola.

He played his last 2 seasons with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. I would of guessed that these last 2 seasons there were his 2 favorite, but they weren´t. “ I would say the championship season and my first season with Speyer were my favorite 2 seasons as a professional Miles! The championship year is a no brainer, and my first year with Speyer I was surrounded by GREAT vets and great guys. They made my transition into playing pro basketball effortless and every day was a joy to be there”. Said Kelvin Omojola. In his first season he helped the Dragons Rhondorf win the Pro B title averaging 12.7ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.1apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 79.5%. “ We were so talented and our chemistry was unmatched. As talented as we were, we were in multiple situations throughout the playoffs where we easily could have folded and lost. But we stuck together, no matter if we won or lost. And if we lost, we took it personal to make sure we didn’t lose again. We were fixated on winning a championship and knew we wouldn’t be denied. We played so many great teams in the playoffs, we easily could have lost. But we always made the adjustments and brought the correct energy/focus to the next game to make sure we didn’t lose again”, commented Kelvin Omojola. He was more than fortunate to share the back court with Tyrese Blunt and Badu Buck. “We were the best backcourt in the league! Yeah they were great Miles, we all complimented each other’s game perfectly and brought the most out of each other. We all competed at a high level and never took it easy on each other”, said Kelvin Omojola. He had a great relationship with Marko Rosic and and won´t forget the deadly mid range game of 2024 U-18 Euro winner Janne Muller. “I love Marko, he’s such a great guy and a great player. I tried to let him know that anytime I could. My favorite moment with him haha, Marko is a funny guy! Most people don’t know that. I’d say the Mario Kart moments we had. It was Marko, myself, Badu, KJ, and Avery. Those moments were priceless and we still have a group chat going to this day. Janne is another great player. Seriously, he’s so good and the sky is the limit for him. He’ll continue to get better every year and I told him don’t forget about me when he’s at the top haha. But yes his mid range game is elite as well as his finishing around the basket. Such a crafty player and beyond skilled for his age”, added Kelvin Omojola.

It is a no brainer what Kelvin Omojola´s favorite game as a Dragon Rhondorf player was. “My personal favorite would have to be the championship game vs. Köln. It has to be Miles! If we win this game, we win the championship. So with the game being the highest pressure game I’ve ever been a part of, to go out there and have 20 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and to get the win? It’s a no brainer”, said Kelvin Omojola. He also knows that the team success and his stellar play wouldn´t have been as good without the diehard support of the Dragon faithful. “That they showed up and supported us every single game was so important! Not only at home, but on the road as well! It gives you an appreciation when the fans are traveling 3+ hours to road games to support you. It REALLY puts it in perspective when you get blown out on the road, the fans traveled to the game, and it feels like you let them down. I love the Dragons fans and they’ll always be special to me”, warned Kelvin Omojola. 4 years wasn´t a long career, but he will be filled with memories for the rest of his life as will his fans. He hopes that the fans will have him in the best of memories as well. “I would say as someone who played hard and never cheated them. I always tried to show the fans the same love and appreciation that they showed me. I always put in the work, I practiced hard every single practice, I never took days off, I was always invested in the team and wanted to win no matter what. I hope they could see that and remember that”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. I will always remember Kelvin Omojola as a player who always gave his best on the court and was a top 3 point guard in the Pro B. He was always professional and a great character and was just a joy to be around. “Thank you Miles for not everything you’ve done for me, but for the all coverage you provide to Germany basketball! I appreciate you, and I’m glad we could speak at least once more”, stressed Kelvin Omojola. Of course Kelvin we will do another interview about your new career. I wouldn´t want it any other way.

Forest Whittaker Didn´t Really Fly into Games But Ivan Kharchenkov Did Helping FC Bayern Munich Win The 2025 NBBL Title

pic credit: helloitsjana

The iconic and groundbreaking 80´s teenage movie Fast Times At Ridgemont High has so many incredible and funny scenes that one has a real difficult time choosing a favorite one. If It´s Mr Hand played by Ray Walston, or Jeff Spicoli played by Sean Penn or Brad Hamilton played by Judge Reinhold, there is a hilarious scene for everybody. Ivan Kharchenko has about as much to do with this movie as Shaq does with winning a weight loss contest, but his situation recently reminded me of a funny scene in the movie involving Oscar winner Forest Whittaker. In the scene, Charles Jefferson played by Forest Whittaker who is the school´s top football player wants to buy some concert tickets to see Earth Wind And Fire. After he does, there is a little boy who was standing next to him that proclaims “Wow does he really live here, I thought he just flew in for games”. That line reminded me of Ivan Kharchenkov (198-SG-2006)´s Sunday May 19th day as he flew from Munich to Berlin just to play in the NBBL final. “This was very special to be able to do. It really did feel like a dream”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Forest Whittaker didn´t really just fly in to play games, but Ivan Kharchenkov did.

The big speculation on Saturday at the NBBL top 4 was, would Ivan Khrachenkov play or not. Game 1 of the easyCredit BBL playoffs between FC Bayern Munich and MBC was also being played on that day and every wondered would Ivan get the nod from Gordon Herbert to help his NBBL (U-19) team. Herbert chose to keep him in Munich. Munich didn´t play their best basketball against Rasta Academy as they had to go into overtime to win to reach the NBBL final. Ivan had logged only 3 minutes in the game 1 win which was played a little bit earlier than the NBBL semi final. “I was able to watch the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter and saw the overtime. I was pretty confident they would win. I mean I knew that my teammates knew that if they didn´t give 100%, then there would be no tomorrow. I was happy when Ivan Volf hit the big three pointer to take the lead. I have been playing with him since the U-14 team. He works so hard on his shot and it paid off”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. With FC Bayern Munich now in the final, the question was could he play this time.? The whole procedure of could he play or not was something that the famous club thought very carefully about. “The club told me when they changed the BBL game to Saturday that I could not play the semi-final in Berlin. They also told me that Sunday would be a no go since we had game 2 on Tuesday in Weissenfels. So I went into game 1 against MBC knowing I wouldn´t play in Berlin. However after the game 1 win, I was on my way out of the arena and the sport director approached me and told me they were thinking of allowing me to go to Berlin for the final. They asked me if I still wanted to go. I was like of course I want to go. I have been wanting to go since yesterday. So I was up at 6:00am Sunday and took a flight to Berlin at 9am”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov. The question was would he be accepted by his teammates flying in to only play the final. German basketball legend Steffen Hamann was 100% sure it would be no problem. “I believe my teammates had no problem with me flying in. They knew that I wanted to play the final. They knew that It wasn´t my decision that I couldn´t play the semi-final, but that it was political. They were happy that I could play”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov.

pic credit: Helloitsjana

The final was at 4:30 and I already knew at 3.00 pm that he would play, because his mother had told me that he would play. The FC Bayern Munich players came on the court for warmups and there was Ivan Kharchenko ready for battle against ratiopharm Ulm. Was ratiopharm Ulm possibly intimidated that he was suddenly there for the final? “I mean could be, but I´m not sure. If a guy comes back, then that could be an extra factor. I think they kind of had an idea that I would come back”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best game against Rasta Academy, but there was no doubt in his mind that his team would come to take care of business in the final. “When I knew that I was cleared to play the final, there was never a doubt in my mind that we would lose. I just knew that we had to work hard. Plus coach Perego had prepared us well to be mentally tough. He was always telling us that we would dominate coming into the Top 4 and just kept saying it over and over. That domination became our mindset. The final was our time to dominate”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. Just like against Rasta Academy, FC Bayern Munich came out slow against ratiopharm Ulm and Kharchenkov was 0/4 in the first quarter. “For me it was tough coming into a totally different role than what I have with the BBL team. But I did remain aggressive and when shots didn´t fall, I tried to bring defensive energy and got some stops. I just tried to lead by example”, explained Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern fought back and it would remain a tight affair going into the fourth quarter. However FC Bayern Munich took care of business to begin the last frame with a 14-2 run which decided the game. “I don´t know if that phase was some of our best defense this season, because we had so many different guys playing at different times this season. But I felt like we defended at a high level and had little mistakes. We also secured the defensive rebound. All in all, it was a solid effort”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. The team didn´t only get a stellar scoring game from Dominik Dolic, but got exceptional scoring help from Sermpezis and Kodjo who combined for 24 points. “They are both good defenders and were aggressive on the ball. They were the perfect filler spot. Every team needs guys like that. I really liked Killian Duck who played a great game, but really it was the whole team that contributed to the title”, said Ivan Kharchenkov.

pic credit: helloitsjana

Then when the buzzer finally sounded, a big weight was released off the shoulders of the FC Bayern Munich players. Ivan Kharchenkov who believes that the Oklahoma Thunder will meet the Indiana Pacers in the NBA final and win it had finally won the NBBL title something he had been striving to do for years. Was that feeling like having a birthday and Christmas all in one? “A birthday and Christmas happen once a year and winning the NBBL title doesn´t. It was really very very special for me. Even if it wasn´t deserved so much on my part, because I only played 2 games, I´m just very thankful that I could be a part of this. I´m just really thrilled for my teammates. They supported me a lot during the season and I just tried to help them in the final”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. Playing in the final and winning it will surely be a moment he will tell his grand children one day. “My favorite play of the game for myself was probably the mid range shots that I made or making free throws. Free throws are always good. I will never forget being able to celebrate with my teammates, mom and fans”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. The question now is was this NBBL final game the last time that Ivan Kharchenkov, Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic were on the court as teammates? “ I fear it was. They will probably go their own ways. But I would love to play with them again”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. But if not as teammates then as opponents. “It was always nice to see them at Euro events the last years. Even there we would chill together. It is always nice to have that home level with them as teammates or opponents”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Who knows, but they might meet this summer again at youth tournaments. But before that moment comes, Ivan Kharchenkov is focusing on winning a second title within a month as he strives for his second BBL title.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tyrese Rice.

Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?

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

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

Kobe, Bryant Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Shaq

Milos Teodosic, Nikos Galis, Nikola Jokic, Giannis

Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder, Franz Wagner, Pascal Roller

Who is your Goat?

Kobe Bryant

Thanks Nico for the chat.

Sometimes 3 Is A Charm But For Dominik Dolic(FC Bayern Munich) 4 Was A Charm

pic credit: ellystro_media

I must admit watching Ivan Kharchenkov has been very special in the last 4 years mainly because I wrote my first article about him when he was only 16 and many more followed and I had ties to his half brother Nikita. For me there were 2 other great guards a bit in his shadow of Kharchenkov with Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic (190-SG-2006) who have made great strides in their development the last years. Both of these standout guards are from Croatia and have been teammates in Munich and the youth national teams of Croatia for years. I have seen Dominik Dolic play in very many places in the last 4 years in Germany. If It was in the NBBL and Pro B in Frankfurt, or the Pro B in Rhondorf or the Top 4 in Frankfurt and Berlin, it was always a pleasure. Today I´m focusing on the amazing NBBL top 4 weekend of Dominik Dolic who won MVP. He couldn´t have won the MVP without the help of his team especially his 2 guard colleagues with Kharchenkov and Volf. It was such a pleasure watching Dolic and Volf on Saturday and then all 3 on Sunday in the NBBL final where they finally combined for the championship, the first for FC Bayern Munich since 2019 when they won it last. “ It felt amazing especially after losing 3 times in a row and now finally we got it”, said Dominik Dolic. The question is will they ever play together again? Khrachenkov is a role player for the Munich FC Bayern Munich BBL team while Dolic and Volf now seek the next step. The question will be can they also make the next step and become role players like Kharchenkov in the easyCredit BBL or was that the last game for the 3 amigos “ I hope not. But I don’t think it’s the last game that we ever played together.”, warned Dominik Dolic. But what was his favorite moment with the 2 others? “Winning the NBBL together or maybe when we all were together at the youth Olympic Games. Me and Ivan V with Croatia and Ivan K with Germany”, added Dominik Dolic.

FC Bayern Munich came into the NBBL Top 4 seeking revenge for the bitter loss last season against Rasta Academy. FC Bayern Munich weren´t necessarily the favorite or were they? “Coach did a great job getting us ready during preparation for the final 4. So we were mentally motivated, but in my opinion we also weren’t the underdogs in this tournament“, stressed Dominik Dolic. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best and always allowed Rasta Academy to hang around and had to play overtime. Even if there was pressure, FC Bayern Munich had the needed strong mentality that helped them get the win. “I just believed that together we could do it. To be honest I didn’t have the feeling that we would lose in any second of the game”, warned Dominik Dolic. In the overtime period, they were able to come together as a team and get revenge as Marko Volf came up big in crunch-time and hit the biggest three pointer in his youth career. “Marco´s shot was really special I think. Especially when he hit that corner three everybody of us felt kind of relieved”, said Dominik Dolic. Dolic didn´t have a great shooting day going 2/9, but when shots aren´t falling then one has to help his team in others ways. And that is exactly what he did hauling down 5 rebounds, dishing out 7 dimes and getting a steal and block.

In the final FC Bayern Munich had to battle the always tough ratiopharm Ulm that had 2 ex 2022 JBBL champions on the squad with Jordan Mueller and Joel Cwik. FC Bayern Munich had to give a way better performance against them then what they displayed against Rasta Academy. “We knew that if we also play bad in this game that we would lose so that was an extra motivation”, warned Dominik Dolic. Everybody was speculating on Sunday morning about if Ivan Kharchenkov would play in the final or not. He didn´t play in the semi-final, because FC Bayern Munich kept him in Munich for gamme 1 of the BBL playoffs against MBC where he only played 3 minutes. He flew to Berlin Sunday morning with his mother. Would his presence disrupt the Munich team chemistry? EasyCredit BBL legend Steffen Hamann stated it wouldn´t and he would be right. Did his presence possibly give ratiopharm some fear something they may not really have realized? “I don’t know if Ulm had more fear, probably yes but I just was so happy seeing him Sunday morning in the hotel knowing that he would make a very big impact for us in final”, smiled Dominik Dolic. Like in the semi-final against Rasta Academy, FC Bayern Munich came out slow and Ivan Kharchenko couldn´t find his groove going 0/4 from the field. That was the golden opportunity for Dolic to step up and take on some responisbility. “I was just doing everything I could to help the team get the win. My shots weren’t really falling in the semifinal game so my mindset for the final game was to keep shooting I knew that at some point I would start to fall in”, commented Dominik Dolic. The game was a real nail bitter going into the fourth quarter, but then FC Bayern Munich took matters into their own hands and went on a massive and lethal 14-2 run to gain the extra momentum and decide the game. Was that span some of their best defense this season? “Definitely, we played almost perfect defense together in the second half. I did enjoy being on the court at that time, it felt amazing”, expressed Dominik Dolic. The crafty and shifty guard who is a mix out of Micic and Teodosic hit three´s from all over the floor in many different key moments of the game on his way to the MVP title. “I was just playing the game in some situations it felt like I could get a good shot up and I wasn’t really hesitating”, said Dominik Dolic. My favorite trey of his 5 that afternoon was his crazy cross over to his left and nailing the shot. Dorian Grosber of Alba Berlin has put up more than 10,000 shots this season in practice, that you have to wonder how many shots Dolic has put up? “Everyday after practice I’m working on different shots spot up and of the dribble so I think a lot. I averaged putting up between 200-300 shots a day with Ivan Volf”, smiled Dominik Dolic. Two key x-factors in the final were Sermpezis and Kodjoe who combined for 24 points and gave not only gave vital stability on the offensive end. “For sure, they also made a big impact on the defensive end”, stressed Dominik Dolic.

pic credit: ellystro_media

The shooting genius who feels that the Minnesota Timberwolves will win the 2025 NBA title over the New York Knicks finished the final with 19 points, 11 boards, 4 assists and 4 steals and deserved to win the MVP award. It was definitely a day that must of felt like a combination of a birthday and Christmas. “It was definitely one of the best days in my basketball career, I enjoyed every second of it. Winning the MVP was amazing. I wasn’t really thinking about winning the MVP for me the only thing that mattered was winning the league I gave everything I had and in the end that was the out outcome ”, said Dominik Dolic. He had one favorite play of the weekend and of course it wasn´t to difficult to predict what his favorite moment was. “The corner three of Ivan. With that shot he brought us to the final. The coolest moment at the top 4 was raising the trophy together with my team”, stated Dominic Dolic. Nothing could cap off the weekend best than the trip back to Munich. Was the trip home crazy or more chilled? “The bus ride was very long so we had a little bit of everything. Of course we also got a little crazy and celebrated”, smiled Dominik Dolic. It was a pleasure to have been able to follow Dominik Dolic at the NBBL level the last years. Now it will be interesting to observe how his professional career will continue. I will definitely keep tabs on this exceptional high energy guard in the next years.

Dorian Grosber Is Confident That Good Things Could Happen At The NBBL Top 4 If Alba Berlin Can Focus On The Things They Can Control

Pic credit: Luxemburg Basketball Federation

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

Thanks Dorian for talking to germanhoops.com. You play for Alba Berlin, Lok Bernau and the Alba Berlin U-19 team. Does school fit in somewhere in between? How challenging is life in general for you?

I finished school last year, so this year I can only focus on basketball. I think life isn’t so challenging, because I have no problems here in Berlin.

You won the NBBL title in 2023 in Frankfurt. Now your back in the top 4 again in 2025. How excited are you to be back?

I’m very excited. We have a great team and everyone on our team deserves to be in the top4

What memories do you have of the title in 2023? It was won on a buzzer beater by Nils Machowski. Did you know it was going in when he released the ball?

The best memory was for sure, running on the court after winning the game. When the shot went up, I was just hoping it goes in. The week before he made exactly the same in our 1v1, so after it was funny looking back at the shot.

This season’s team is stacked once again with unbelievable talent. Is this team stronger than in 2023?

You can’t compare the both teams. We have a very good team this year, with some very good prospects. It’s hard to say, but I love both teams.

Alba Berlin had to go the distance against Rostock and Leverkusen. How important was this for the development of the team? Could that extra experience be the difference between a title and not?

We learned a lot from both series. Everything is possible in basketball and we saw that. Winning by 50 and then lose by 20 is a perfect example. This experience could for sure help us for the preparation and mindset for the top4, but I think if we play our normal basketball and stay focused, it’s enough.

Alba Berlin plays against ratiopharm Ulm. Alba Berlin has the massive advantage under the court and ratiopharm Ulm like to show off their isolation skills. What will be key to getting the win?

Playing as a team and be focused. If we focus on the things we can control and play defense, then let’s see.

If Alba Berlin play their game plan and can execute well inside, shouldn´t the title be self-evident?

Easier said than done. We still play the best youth teams in Germany, so we need to execute on offense and on defense to win.

What has it been like being teammates with Anton Nufer. Both of you are incredibly focused to become pro´s. What have you soaked in most from his mindset and drive to reach your goals?

Me and Anton came together to Berlin and I’ve been literally spending everyday with him for 3 years now. We push each other a lot in practice and it’s been great living and learning with him.

A little bird tweeted to me that you and Anton Nufer have made 10,000 shots just in practice this season. Do you guys ever have shooting competitions?

Yes, often. We have a lot of shooting competitions in practice. Sometimes I win, sometimes he wins.

How talented is Anton Kemmer? Last season he reached the JBBL top 4 and this year is with the NBBL team at age 16. What have you appreciated most about his game?

Anton is very talented for his age. He is a very good all-around player and an athlete.

Talk a little about the 2 bigs Nevio Bennefeld and Amon Doerries. What are their biggest assets and how do they impact the game best?

They are both very skilled bigs who can shoot the ball well. Their work ethic is very good and they always give their best. Amon of course has more experience than Nevio, but Nevio is also a year younger.

If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I really don’t know. My favourite players to watch are Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and SGA.

You’re an allrounder. What would you describe as your biggest weapon on the court?

II would say playing 1v1, attacking the basket and rebounding are my best weapons.

What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

my 1v1 defense is good, but I want to become a lockdown defender in the future. Getting steals is one of my strengths.

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

My shot and my body, are the areas where I’m working the most.

Thanks Dorian for the chat.

Jordan Camper(Sunking Saarlouis) Has Put In 10,000 Hours Of Work Mastering His Spots And Get Different In Game Reps To Maximize His Efficiency

Jordan Camper (203-C, college: Lincoln, PA) is a 203cm forward that played his second professional season and second with the Sunkings Saarlouis (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 18,0ppg, 10,3rpg and 2,3apg.. Last season as a rookie he averaged 19.0ppg, 10.5rpg, 1.2apg, Blocks-5 (1.5bpg), FGP: 65.5%, 3PT-1 (50.0%), FT: 60.0%. He began his basketball career with Chester high school- He then played at the Lincoln University of Pennsylvania (NCAA2) playing a total of 115 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Jordan for talking to germanhoops.com You played division 2 basketball and are playing overseas. How blessed do you feel? Do you enjoy each day like it could be your last?

I cherish each moment I get to step on that court. I am extremely blessed to play the sport I love for a living and to be able to provide a better life in a new country for my family. You never know when your last game or last breath could be, so I make sure to make the most of it everyday.

Are you the Jokic of the German Regionalliga? You had a triple double and 10 assists as a center. That’s very unusual?

Haha, Jokic is a very funny comparison. I hope to be a triple double machine and champion like him. I think my coach and teammates recognize my skillset and do our best to work around my abilities.

Was the win over Giessen with your triple double the best game of your career? In your second season in 29 games in the NCAA 2 you only had 6 assists and now you dish out 10 in a game.

Individually I think this was my best professional performance so far. It was even more special to know that my teammate had a triple double in the game as well. I’m not sure but that has to be some type of German history or at least Regionalliga history. And I’ve always been a good passer throughout my career, as a kid I idolized Magic Johnson & Larry Bird which were two of the best passers ever especially for their size.

Your played your second season with the Sunkings Saarlouis (Germany-Regionalliga). Has Saarlouis become like a second home for you?

Saarlouis has truly welcomed me as one of their own. The transition has been pretty smooth. And it’s even better this second year because I was able to have my wife & kid join me as well. So I’m extremely blessed for the opportunity and to have them here with me.

You’re a double double monster now in your second pro season. You didn´t have these minutes or stats in college. How refreshing has the pro game for you considering that you can showcase your abilities?

I always felt that my game was more suited for the Pro level. So I’m just glad to be able to showcase my skills & abilities. I work very hard at my game and there are still parts I want to improve on. So hopefully as time goes on I have a chance to showcase that.

You didn´t play last season. Why did you sit out the season?

During the summer of 2023 I suffered a severe injury. So I decided it was best to just fully rehab and recover. I enjoyed the time off back home and I actually feel as though I’m a better player than I was before the injury.

2 years ago the Sunkings finished second, but this season it hasn´t been going as well. Why is the team in the middle of the pack? The team doesn´t score as much but defends well and has lost 4-5 close games. You could be a lot higher in the standings had you won some more games.

It’s been a rough season for us in terms of record. We lost a key veteran in Florian (who was like a second coach) and Ricky is now a full time coach in Luxembourg so the responsibility has fallen a lot on the younger guys. It’s been a transition but I think with my return we’ll continue to head in the right direction.

What has it been like being teammates with Regionalliga legend Ricky Easterling? He is in his 17th season with the Sunkings and has played more than 400 games with them. Is he like a mentor for you?

Ricky has been like a big brother. I consider him family, I’m not sure I would’ve came here if it wasn’t for him. He really made my first year go fairly easily especially with us coming from similar backgrounds. I’m constantly asking him questions and he always has answers. Also we both have two young girls around the same age and they’re practically best friends.

You don´t play the same position, but what have you soaked up most from his game that has helped you in your development?

Although we have different positions on the court he understands the game so well, and my game so well that he’s given me the blueprint to be successful with this league. He’s like a coach, brother, mentor, trainer, and teammate all in one. Honestly I’d say just learning how to get to my spots efficiently is what I picked up most from him.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm center. To what NBA player would you compare your game to?

I’d say the best comparison would be Giannis Antetokounmpo. The way he can get downhill and attack on offense with his length and athleticism. Also his two way ability to guard on the perimeter and protect the rim. Although I’m listed as a center, I commonly play a Point Forward role within our offense. I would also say Bam Adebayo is a fair comparison as well.

You can score and rebound, but are also a shot blocking threat. What is your biggest strength on the court?

Honestly my biggest strength on the court is my versatility whether on offense or defense. I’m able to guard pretty well on the perimeter and imposing enough to defend the rim. And on offense I can either be a post player, roll man, or the ball handler for pick and roll creating plays for myself & others.

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

I’d say I’m a solid all-around defender. My role is mostly used as a rim protector, which I’d say I’m pretty good at. But I would like to showcase my full court defensive skills and be able to pick up guys full court. I’ve always admired defenders like Scottie Pippen & Dennis Rodman. As my career continues I would like to increase my steals production and be able to guard the opposing team’s best offensive threat each game.

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

I’m continuing to just master my spots and get different in game reps to maximize my efficiency. I’ve put in about 10,000 hours with different aspects of my game so it’s just about sharpening iron & focusing on making my teammates better. Leadership is something I pride myself on and continuing to grow as a leader is one of main priorities.

You have shown that you can be a top center at the Regionalliga level. What goals do you have as a player? I´m sure you have checked out Pro B and Pro A games in places like Trier and Speyer or Karlsruhe?

I haven’t really checked out any other leagues besides the NBA. I am curious to learn about the different leagues in Germany. Personally I would like to play at the highest level which would be either the NBA or Euroleague.

You played at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania (NCAA2) from 2017-2022. What kind of an experience was that for you? You didn´t have massive stats. What kind of a role did you have?

My experience at Lincoln was honestly bittersweet. My first few years I played under Doug Overton. He was a former NBA player & coach, so playing for him is really what attracted me to Lincoln. My main role was to just develop my first couple of years, be a leader, and just have high energy. My last year was different under a new head coach who wanted to rebuild the program with his incoming freshman. So my job was to be a mentor to the freshman so they can excel in their later years. Which I think I did pretty good at because the young guys are absolutely hooping right now. LU!

You had many great games in the NCAA 2 like having a 26/13 game in a win over Kutztown. What was your fondest moment on the court?

My fondest moment on the court was actually my first college point which was a free throw in West Virginia. Besides that I would say a few of my poster dunks & monster blocks were pretty nice.

How did head coaches Doug Overton and Corey Lowery groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Doug Overton really showed me what it takes to be a pro. He had first hand experience with playing and coaching at the highest level. So I was constantly asking him questions, in the gym with him, and in his office watching film. Coach Lowery was very different, he loved to talk about his accomplishments and was great for younger guys. His messages were more towards the younger guys since I had already shown I was a responsible athlete. Most of our conversations were about family, faith, and people.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Deaquan Williams?

Me & DayDay wouldn’t play 1 on 1 too much but when we did I’d say it was about even. I would win some, and he would win some.

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

Mo Bamba was very difficult to play against. I played him twice in high school and he sat in the middle of their 2-3 zone. I honestly don’t think we had any paint points or offensive rebounds.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve had so many teammates over the years but the five best that come to mind are Zahrion Blue, Bernard Lightsey, Cameron Campbell, Deaquan Williams, and Gevon Arrington.

Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?

MJ, Kobe, Lebron, Magic.

What is your take on the Luca Doncic trade? How crazy is it to digest that as a fan?

I’m honestly surprised they traded Luka, especially in the middle of the season. I think short-term it benefits Dallas, and long-term it benefits LA.

Who is your GOAT

My goat would probably be MJ. I think if you put him in a best of 7 he would win 9/10 times.

Thanks Jordan for the chat.