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Tuukka Kotti Will Always Be Thankful For Gordon Herbert In Turning Around His Career And Getting Back To Working Hard And Focusing On The Right Things

One thing is for sure, I always knew that Gordon Herbert was an excellent coach. I mean I covered his Frankfurt Skyliners teams for more than a decade so I must know. I didn´t know in 2004 when he helped the Opel Skyliners win their first BBL title, but years later when he came back and continued to form winning Skyliner teams and help young Germans develop further, I knew that he was something special. That he became World champion coach in 2023 with Germany was no surprise to me. Herbert is a very special coach who simply knows how to develop team chemistry, let each player have a real special role and use it and most important helps players with the mental side. His players have come to appreciate his coaching ways the last 20 years. It is no surprise, that his name has often been mentioned in my interviews with his former players. Some of his former players remarks about him were so powerful that I used their words in my titles. I looked back in my article archive and found 6 players where I had Gordon Herbert in the title with guys like Mario Kasun, Justin Cobbs, Garai Zeeb, Jason Clark, Tyrone Ellis and Richard Williams. It wasn´t any different with his ex player Finish dinosaur Tuukka Kotti (205-PF-1981, college: Providence) who is 43 and still playing professionally in 2025. He played briefly for Herbert in 2009 before he returned to Frankfurt to take over for Murat Didin and lead the team to the 2010 final “I have always admired Gordie as a coach. He turned my career around in that half a season I was with him. He got me back to working hard and being focused on the right things. I will always be thankful for that. No surprise, that he has reached that level as coach”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He has had such an amazing career that has spanned 20 years that if someone had told him in 2006, that he would still be playing, it would have been difficult to believe it. “Even in 2014 after the World Cup I thought I only had a couple more seasons left. 2006 it would have been hard to believe for sure. There is really no other job I would rather do so I have decided to play as long as I am able to compete at this level. I am really humbled and grateful that God has blessed me with such a long career. I have stayed healthy throughout most of my career. Hard work, enough sleep/rest, and balanced diet. It is a simple recipe”, said Tuukka Kotti.

Tuuka Kotti who names Troy Bell, Caron Butler, Chris Paul, Ben Gordon, and David Lee as his toughest opponents in the NCAA and in Europe Milos Teodosic and Keith Langford currently plays for Tapiolan Honka. He began his career with FoKopo and then played with the Salon Vilpas (Korisliiga) averaging 15.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.7apg in 2000. He is content that basketball has changed so much in the last 24 years. “The game was slower and tactically not as advanced as it is today. Coaching in Finland has developed a lot and it shows also in Korisliiga. In all areas I think. Biggest thing that stands out to me is the spacing of the game. Outside shooting has improved and teams are shooting more threes so it opens up the game more”, commented Tuukka Kotti. He went to the States in 2001 and played 4 years and 116 NCAA games for Providence College. He never averaged more than 10,0ppg in a season and as a senior played 31 games and averaged 9.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.5%, 3Pts: 30.3%. Back in those days, it was rare to see a Finish player play in the NCAA. “There were some players from Finland who had taken that route, for example Hanno Möttölä. Also playing in the US had for years been a dream of mine so it was an easy decision I did struggle my freshman year getting adjusted to the culture and the different style of play”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. There was a legend that he came to USA as a point guard and returned to Finland 4 years later as a center. Did he have extra Mcdonalds visits in those 4 years? Partly true, but the story has been exaggerated quite a bit over the years. I did play the different guard positions before college. Some PG as well. In college I was playing mostly in the wing and I developed in to a really good defensive player through those years. Defensively I was used in all positions but on offense I played more off ball than I was used to. I really moved closer to the basket when I turned pro and I had started to struggle with my outside shooting. That’s why teams wanted to play me first more at the 4 spot and eventually at the 5”, expressed Tuukka Kotti. He reached a NCAA tournament in 2004 and won´t forget it. “It was really fun! I had an opportunity to play against some really high level competition in the Big East. Also we practiced really hard which I enjoyed. And I got meet and build relationships with some people I cherish to this day. Were there things that I wish I would have worked on more or received more coaching with, absolutely. But overall, my college years were great. March madness was great, but it’s bitter sweet for me because we had an amazing season that year but got knocked out of the tournament in the first round”, added Tuukka Kotti.

The big man who lists Petri Virtanen, Shawn Huff, Chris Anrin, Maris Laksa, and David Gonzalvez as his best teammates of all-time had many incredible games in the NCAA including a 16/7/6 game in a win against Georgetown that had incredible guys like Rudy Gay, Charlie Villenueva, or Marcus Williams and in other games played against Emeka Okafor and Ben Gordon. “That one was a big one. All the games against UConn were memorable. They had some amazing teams and we were usually able to get the best out of our team against them. One game that I always look back on was our game at Notre Dame at the end of my freshman year. I had not played a lot during that year, and having a big game there really gave me confidence going into my second season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. He had amazing teammates who later came overseas with Marcus Douhit, John Linehan and Ryan Gomes, all guys he won´t ever forget. “Marcus was amazing. Great player and great personality. He was really a big key to our success covering the middle of our 2-3 zone. Had quite a few of my shots blocked by Marcus too in practice. John set the tone for sure. He was a senior when I came in and I was really influenced by his leadership and how hard he worked. I have never played with a better defender in my career. Ryan was the same class and it was such a privilege to see him develop and become a star. He was an amazing player and just like John, he put the work in. All the greats do”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned to Europe and played his first 3 seasons in Italy with Ignis Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10/6 and 11/6 and Noi Sport Monte Terminillo Rieti (Italy-Serie A). “I fell in love with Italy right away. I have some great memories from there and would love to go back and visit soon. Basketball was really good. There were tons of talent in Serie A and LegaDue. Also, always loved the passion of the Italian basketball fans.”, said Tuukka Kotti, He reached the Serie A in his third season but only averaged 2,1ppg. It was tough breaking into the rotation with guys like Pape Sow and Wade Helliwell. “That was a difficult year for me. Playing behind those guys and Leroy Hurd, who had a monster season that year. I broke in the rotation and got big minutes after Pape Sow got sold to Poland. Unfortunately I broke my hand, pretty soon after and missed almost the rest of the season”, remembered Tuukka Kotti. The Serie A at that time was already showcasing amazing players and you could always have a wow effect with a player each weekend. “My team mate Morris Finley was amazing throughout the season. And also Gianmarco Pozzecco. I remember them beating us at our place and him coming to our locker room after the game shaking everyone’s hands. That took a lot of courage”, stressed Tuukka Kotti.

The Finish native who names Luka, MJ, Kobe, Lebron, and Jokic on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore then played a season with Etendard de Brest (France-ProB) averaging 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 57.4%. “Pro B was very different from Lega Due. More up and down and athletic. Personally I had a difficult season there and didn’t play as well as I was capable of”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 2 seasons with the Honka Espoo Playboys (Korisliiga) averaging 12/9 and 16/10 winning 2 cups. “That second year our team was really good! One of the best that I have played in. We had size, great outside shooting and defensively we were really tough. After winning the cup we lost Coach Herbert for health reasons and Corey Belser left for Ukraine. After that the team wasn’t the same”, added Tuukka Kotti. He was teammates with so many interesting guys like Jamar Wilson, Carl Lindbom, Sasu Salin, Juka Matinean, and Tuomas Iisalo. Did he already notice that winning coach in Iisalo as something that could happen? “We had some great players for sure. Tuomas has always had a very curious and analytical personality. Also a real passion for the game. But yes, absolutely it has been surprising how far he has reached in such a short period of time. Amazing story. I am really proud of him”, stressed Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Italy for 3 seasons and played with Naturhouse Ferrara (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 10.9ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 43.5% and with Aget Service Imola (Italy-Lega 2) averaging 9.6ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 57.5%, FT: 46.4% and with Vanoli Cremona (Italy-Serie A) averaging 6.0ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 61.0%, FT: 48.9%. He finally got more of a chance in the Serie A and was teammates with special player Shawn Huff who also played under Gordon Herbert. “It was great to be back in Italy those years and in Cremona had an opportunity to play against some amazing competition. Shawn and I are really close and the Cremona year is only a small part of everything we have experienced together. He is an amazing player and a person”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then returned back to Finland in 2012 and never left again except for a season in Germany. He played 3 seasons with the Nilan Bisons Loimaa (Finland-Korisliiga) putting up consistent stats as always and having a stellar Eurocup season. Did you become home sick? “Not really. There was a great opportunity to play Eurocup in Loimaa, which is right next to my hometown Forssa, and I felt like that was great situation for me. It’s really hard to describe these three years. I have so many great memories and I loved my time at Loimaa. At the same time we played the last two years in the VTB-league on top of Korisliiga, which totaled to about 70 regular season games plus playoffs. Needless to say those years were very demanding mentally and physically. The tough competition in Eurocup, VTB and also Korisliiga did help me to develop and I feel those years matured me as a player quite a bit”, commented Tuukka Kotti. It was never boring in the season that Jacob Burtschi was his teammate. “I love Jake! He made our taxing season so much lighter with his personality. We were constantly competing with him. Half court shots, playing cards on the road. It was real good times”, remembered Tuukka Kotti.

For the ex Finish national player who lists Jesus Christ and Michael Jordan as his GOAT then played a season with the Crailsheim Merlins (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 62.3%, FT: 70.8% and played for Tuomas Iisalo. One would have thought it was a no brainer to play there. “It wasn’t a no brainer at that point. I was actually on my way to Joensuun Kataja, but ended up eventually in Crailsheim. I would say Tuomas was still developing his identity as a coach at that point. While he was already a good coach, I could not have predicted him succeeding that fast. One thing I noticed and appreciate in Tuomas is that he really insists on the things he believes in. And he will always give you a reason why”, said Tuukka Kotti. He then played 5 seasons with the Helsinki Seagulls (Korisliiga) winning 3 cups. He had his best stat season in his first season and another good season followed. Had he reached his prime at age 36? “There is for sure some truth to that. I think I played some of my best basketball those years and also in Eurobasket 2017. I hope it can serve as an encouragement to other players, that one can still develop at a later stage of their career”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played for the talented is Jussi Laakso as a coach. He didn´t follow in the foot steps of Iisalo in Crailsheim, but like him has a knack for finding guards off the radar like Trae Bell-Haynes and Kendale McCullum and helping them make the next step. “Jussi is a great coach and great leader. He did an amazing job recruiting and putting together some of those teams. Jussi is very humble and eager to learn more, and it’s been great to see how he builds winning cultures everywhere he goes”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He then played the last 2 years with Tapiolan Honka and won the league title last season and will play there a third season. It seemed like he continued to be reunited with Carl Lindbom. Will he end his career there? “It’s hard to make any promises at this point. It’s totally in God’s hands, but I would love to finish my career here. This is a great organization with some amazing people, and I’m grateful to be a part of it”, stated Tuukka Kotti. Not too forget, he has been a member of the Finish national team over the years. He has seen Finish basketball take on a massive development in this period. “It has been like night and day. When I started with the NT we had no clear direction and we were lacking confidence. In the last 20 years there has been a big culture change in our programs and also what’s changed is that we believe in ourselves. The coaching in Finland has developed a ton and both players and coaches are more valued now around the world. We have a bright future”, warned Tuukka Kotti. He played against USA at the 2014 World Cup and suffered a brutal 114-55 loss against USA where he had 6 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and a block. The Finish team was pretty talented then with guys like Murphy, Koivisto,Koponen, Salo, Huff and himself while Team USA had superstars like had Curry, Irving, Rose, Davis and Harden just to name a few. There was not one USA player that stood out for him most. “That was the most memorable game of my career! 10K Finnish fans in the arena and going against some NBA greats. It was a dream come true. Only a few years before that we were dreaming to play in the Eurobasket and all of a sudden we are here. I told the guys after the game in our locker room, that I have never before enjoyed getting my butt kicked. Not one player, but in general how fast they played, and the talent combined with speed and athleticism. It was really impressive”, remembered Tuukka Kotti who didn´t see the sequel to the classic Coming To America as the original can´t be topped. He has seen it all in the last 20 years and will always have enough stories to tell all.

Phillp Flowers(Bona Baskets Limburg) Is Grinding In The 2 Regionalliga But Has Game And Once Put Up 37 Points Against Jeremy Pargo In A Pro Am Game In Miami

Phillip Flowers (196-SF-1990, college: UWG) is a 34 year old 196cm small forward from Lauderdale, Florida and playing with the Bona Baskets Limburg (“ Regionalliga) this season. He has pro experience in Qatar, Brazil and in semi pro leagues in the States with teams Georgia Spartans (UBA) and the South Florida Gold (ABA). He played at : Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA) and the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after a 65-57 win over Eintracht Frankfurt.

Thanks Philip for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big win over Eintracht Frankfurt. The guests are filled with 80% youth players. Did it feel like men playing with boys?

Yes it did feel like that. Sometimes I have to get myself mad just to motivate myself to play. I´m bigger and stronger than those guys. You have to keep it simple when you play against young guys.

What was the key for getting the win at home?

We didn´t find an offensive rhythm. Only one guy was at practice yesterday. But we did give an overall consistent defensive effort.

You last played 5 years ago in the ABA. How did you land in Limburg?

I met a former Limburg player through my job in Wiesbaden. I´m a contractor in Wiesbaden and work for the government. I got a try out and the rest is history.

You live and work in Wiesbaden. Is the Limburg gig more a hobby or do you still have aspirations of chasing the pro dream?

Of course I still want to get to the next level. I won´t be able to get to the top, because of my job though. But I feel capable of playing in the Pro B or Pro A.

Did you have a 9-5 job the last 5 years? Did you continue to work on your craft or was the professional route on the back burner?

I worked as a contractor for the US government in different countries the last years. I played in Qatar, Brazil and in China tournaments.

What kind of an experience has it been playing for the Bona Baskets Limburg? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has been cool. I have gotten to know some of the guys. I´m proud to have been a mentor for some of the young kids and try to give them knowledge and help them get better. I really love how we always have access to the gym.

You aren´t the only veteran, but Elijah Allen is also here. What is it like sharing the court with him? Is one more the leader and the other have a different function?

I can be a vocal leader, but also leader with actions. Elijah is the same.

How enjoyable has it been being teammates with Justin Stallbohm? Isn´t his smile infectious?

His smile is very infectious especially when his shot is going in. I get a lot of assists from him. He is a good shooter and leader as our captain.

You played in countries like Brazil and Qatar, but was never in Europe before this season. What do you believe kept you away from Europe? Was it failed representation?

It wasn´t really failed representation, but he just didn´t have a network in Europe, but more in South America. I would have liked to have played here earlier in my career.

You played for the South Florida Gold (ABA) reaching the final. What memories do you have of this season? What was missing from getting that chip?

We just didn´t play very well as a team. It was a big moment and they just had more experience than us.

You played 2 seasons with Botafogo F.R. (Brazil-Liga Ouro) winning a chip. What was so special about this team that season?

We had a bunch of really good players. We had strong imports and a really good team. It wasn´t only great to win the title, but to contribute

You played your rookie season with the Georgia Spartans (UBA). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie?

My wake up call was realizing I had to get stronger. I always had the skills. I focused more on my body.

You began your college career at Eastern Florida State College (NJCAA). Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO have said it was a grind, but an experience they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

I agree. What many don´t realize is that JUCO has a lot of good players. Guys usually land here because of bad grades. I learned that if I want to get somewhere, I have to work hard.

You then played a season with the University of West Georgia (NCAA2). You only played a season there. Why didn´t you finish there?

I stayed only one season, because I was ineligible for a second season.

What was your fondest moment on the court? Possibly your 23/13 game against Carver?

I don´t even think that that was my best game. Maybe on paper it was. My fondest moment was winning the dunk contest at midnight madness.

How did head coach Michael Cooney groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

He taught me discipline. I understood that if I didn´t do something a certain way, I would sit.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Zac Taulien?

I won. Not too many beat me.

Who the toughest player you battled that reached the NBA?

I played against Bam Adebayo. I played against James Harden in a Miami tournament and did really well. He didn´t play defense. I put up 37 points against Jeremy Pargo also in Miami. I also played against Derrick Jones Jr.

Who are your 4 best teammates of all-time?

Kenny Boynton, Brandon Knight, Eloy Vargas, Keith Clanton

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

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

Who is your Goat?

Michael Jordan

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

Yes they should of left it alone.

Thanks Philip for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 15

Malik Riddle is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with eurobasket.com every week to talk basketball.

A tough 114-110 double overtime loss. It was the second OT type game loss in a row. Is the basketball God annoying you guys a bit at the moment?

No I just felt like we just didn’t make the right plays that we needed during the whole game.

Do you feel like teams are scouting the RheinStars better in the second half?

I think so but also we need to make adjustments during the game. We also did not get stops like we need to.

It was one of those games where one team would punch and in the next quarter the other would punch back. In the second quarter the RheinStars punched back. What was key for having the lead at the break?

We were getting stops and getting out and getting easy baskets.

In the second half they punched the RheinStars, but you fought back in the fourth quarter. Ruppert Hennen tied the game at 89 and you stopped them to force OT. How fortunate were you to reach the OT?

Very fortunate I feel we were locked in during that moment and showed how focused we can be as a team when we need to at times.

That first OT was very fortunate again for Cologne as Alston missed a second free throw with one second to play. What was missing from you guys just to finish them off?

We just didn’t finish on offense as well as not getting consecutive stops and rebounding.

In the second OT the RheinStars went on a 4-0 run, but allowed Ehingen to come back. Is it fair to say that the RheinStars would have won the game without having to battle Jaylen Alston?

Yeah he was having a great game probably one of the best I’ve been a part of and we let him go off this game.

You had 9 points and not your best shooting day, but had 3 steals. Was your injury still hindering your play a bit?

It has been difficult for me with the injury hopefully I can use the break to heal properly.

The Pro B now has a 2 week break. What do the RheinStars Cologne have to do better in the next games?

We have to lock in more on defense like we did the beginning of the season. We have to come out the gate with intensity.

It won´t get any easier as you paly Wurzburg who beat you in the first game. What will be key to getting win?

Defense is the key. We have to play better collectively and finish with rebounding. Our intensity and urgency need to be better as a whole.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Rookie Malik Whitaker(Fellbach) Knows You Have 2 Choices Get Determined Or Discouraged When Life Challenges You

The name Fort Lewis doesn´t come up a lot for me, bit every once in a while it does. There have been a few guys from there that made it overseas like Alex Herrera and Kofi Josephs, 2 ballers that I have interviewed in the past. However the first guy that I think of first when I read the name Fort Lewis is Deandre Lansdowne. He is a guy that I have covered since he came overseas in 2015. He is the ultimate Cinderella story going from lower leagues to the top. Lansdowne began in the German Pro B in 2015 with Herten. He not only made it to the top leagues in Germany, Italy and France. But also has played in international club tournaments like the Basketball Champions League and Fiba Europe Cup. These are the type of players I love to cover most and enjoy showing a lot of love to. In terms of Lansdowne, I have interviewed him 11 times and written one portrait on him. A week ago I came upon the name Fort Lewis again when I prepared an interview for rookie Malik Whitaker (198-G-2000, college: Fort Lewis, agency: Starting 5) who is playing his rookie season in Germany for Pro B team Fellbach Flashers. Whitaker also played at Fort Lewis and like Lansdowne has to grind in lower leagues to begin his pro career. Whitaker played only 1 season at Fort Lewis, but had an incredible season. He had no idea who Lansdowne is, but after hearing of his story has another focus to shoot for in the next years. “I didn´t know of him when I was there and we never talked or met before. His story is very inspirational knowing he came from Fort Lewis and also started in the Pro B like me. His story shows me that it´s possible to move up and depends on the work you put in”, stressed Malik Whitaker. He doesn´t have to go far as he can watch BBL basketball in Ludwigsburg about 30 minutes away or in Ulm or Heidelberg which is an hour away. He can dissect the games closely of guys playing his position. How far is he away from the BBL?. “I’ve checked out one BBL game so far. It was very entertaining and it had everything you would want to see from a fan and competitors view. I don’t think I am that far away, but I also know there are parts of my game that need improvement in order for me not only to get there but to succeed at that level”, warned Malik Whitaker.

Malik Whitaker who lists Trevelin Queen as his toughest foe so far on the court in his career was born on November 19th, 2000 in Humble, Texas. He began his basketball career at Atascocita High School. He then spent 2 years at Garret College (JUCO). It is always refreshing seeing guys do well at the JUCO level and then move up to higher college leagues and then make it overseas. Getting to the peak isn´t always easy at the JUCO level where guys are playing for their stats and trying to move forward with their careers. I don´t believe I have ever come across a player who didn´t regret playing JUCO. It was a grind, but worth it for every player. “That statement is true! It tests you everyday. It can bring out the worst or the best depending on what you make of it. I faced every challenge that came my way head on and it paid off. If I had a redo I wouldn’t change anything”, warned malik Whitaker. He made a massive jump in his game in his second season. In his first season he averaged 12.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 72.2% and in his second season 19.1ppg, 8.7rpg, 3.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 71.0%. Instrumental in his growth was head coach Dennis Gibson. “He let me know going into year 2 that I would be the leader, and he was expecting a big year from me. He trusted me to lead the team, allowed me to make mistakes, learn from them and continue to move forward with confidence. He is a huge part of why I am the player I am today”, stressed Malik Whitaker. In his second season in JUCO, he reached the Final 4. “ The chemistry with that team was great. We finished as the #4 ranked JUCO and only lost 2 games all season. The best thing about us was how we moved as one unit at all times on the court. There wasn’t any selfishness on the team which is rare at the JUCO level”, stated Malik Whitaker. After JUCO, he was rewarded by moving up and playing a season for West Virginia State University (NCAA2) averaging 13.8ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 89.4%. He scored in double figures in 17 games that season including having some big games against Wheeling and Frostburg State scoring 26 points apiece. But what memory is better than winning a chip? “The best memory from State is when we went to the Virgin Islands and won the Yes U.S. Virgin Island classic”, said Malik Whitaker. He then made one more move going to Fort Lewis College (NCAA2) averaging 11.8ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 50.7%, FT: 80.0%. Here he won another chip with the RMAC title. “We were a hungry team. Even when we were ranked #2 in the nation in NCAA D2 we felt like underdogs. We felt like we had more to prove and improve on at all times. It pushed us to become a special team and go down forever in the history books”, remembered Malik Whitaker. He had some really incredible games in his last college season including beating Regis 81-80 with a massive 26/10 game, but there were also other great games. “It was one of my better games of the year, but my favorite game of the season was against South Dakota Mines. It was senior night and I had 26pts 9rbs in our last home game of the year. We were undefeated at home for the season which was something we set out to do at the beginning of the season. So it was cool to have my last home collegiate game go like that”, commented malik Whitaker. He scored in double figures 19 times in that season and made the next step as a player under head coach Bob Pietrack. He pushed me everyday to be the best version of myself. The whole staff had faith in me and they wouldn’t allow me to take days off or cheat myself which I really appreciated. He told me once “when life’s challenges come your way you have 2 choices; get determined or discouraged”. And now I live by that sentence”, expressed Malik Whitaker who remembers winning his fair share of 1-1 battles with Amondo Miller.

The Texas native who lists Samier Kinsler, Dwaine Jones, Junior Garbrah, Obi Agbim, and Dmonte Brown as his 5 best teammates of all-time came to Germany for the 2024-2025 season and is lacing up his sneakers for the Fellbach Flashers in the Pro B. He has been there 5 months and simply loves everything on and off the court. “This has been a great experience Coach Kris had a vision for me from our first phone call ever. I’ve continued to trust him and his vision since then. It has put not only myself, but the whole team in a better place. The guys on the team are great people and teammates. I look forward to going out and fighting for 40 minutes with them every Gameday. There is a great fan base who comes and gives crazy energy during the home games. It’s been a great first international experience for me so far. I have enjoyed being in Fellbach. I like that everyone in the area is very active; you’ll always catch people walking around, riding bikes, etc. that’s not really the culture in the states for most cities”, added Malik Whitaker. Last season the Flashers just missed the playoffs. This season they are currently in 4th place with a lot of upside and the possibly to reach the playoffs. “That is a huge focus for us. It would be a step forward from the first season of the club playing Pro B. It’s also something that has never been accomplished in this club before. We as a unit are working to make sure we can accomplish this goal this season”, said Malik Whitaker. There was a span in the season where they won 8 of 10 games and currently have won 5 of their last 6 games. “ Our defense starts everything. It sets the tone for the game and sparks our offense. When we are disciplined defenders we feel as though we’re as good as any team in this league”, warned malik Whitaker. This weekend he will play his first time against the 2024 Pro B champion Dragons Rhondorf who snuck out a 78-75 win in the first weeks of the season. “It’s another game for me. I am looking forward to the challenge knowing we lost the first game at home, and will have to walk into a hostile environment to win an away game. I look forward to moments like those”, expressed Malik Whitaker. He has some great teammates including German giant Daniel Mayr and top pro B undersized center Brian Butler.” Brian is a great vet. He has been very helpful to me making this jump to European basketball. It still surprises me how he dominates most low post battles being “undersized”. He brings a great attitude to the team and is the veteran presence most clubs would love to have”, stressed Malik Whitaker. Currently he is having a very solid rookie season averaging 17/6/2/2 stats. Is that a stat line with what he can be content with? “I would say it’s been decent. It’s a different style of play from college basketball obviously, so of course there’s a bit of a learning curve. But I’m nowhere near being content with how I’ve performed until this point. There’s another level or 2 to my game now that I have not showcased yet, but I’m trusting the process”, warned Malik Whitaker.

The 198cm guard who lists Steph Curry, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and T-Mac on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is a player that doesn´t compare himself to one player, but enjoys watching the games of certain players like Devin Booker, Brandon Ingram, Jayson Tatum, and Kobe Bryant mainly for his footwork. He is a player that has always been a guy that loved to fill the stat sheet at ease. Is versatility his biggest strength? “It’s the biggest emphasis on my game. Being able to handle, pass, shoot, rebound, and defend the ball are the basics. But being able to execute everything in live action makes you more than basic, and that’s what I strive to be”, warned Malik Whitaker. His three point shooting has been up and down in his career so far. He shot 42% in JUCO and a crazy 50% at Fort Lewis, but currently in the Pro B only at 33%. There is a reason for him having these fluctuations. “While the percentage was high in college the volume wasn’t. It was also a lot of catch and shoot open 3s. Now, I’m shooting more 3’s with “higher difficulty” which is something I am adjusting to and working relentlessly on. I enjoy the challenge though and I approach it everyday with the right mindset so I know it’ll turn around. That’s what’s going to help me be a next level shooter”, stressed Malik Whitaker. He definitely doesn´t want to be a one dimensional player as he sees his defensive game as a positive part of his game. “I’m far from a liability on defense but I want to become more of a guy to guard the other team’s best player. I’ve asked coach for the challenge a couple times, but I want that to be the normal for me so I’m working on it”, stated malik Whitaker. Reaching the playoffs is his biggest goal as well as staying consistent and improving strength. It will be interesting to see where the career of Malik Whitaker will go. If he keeps playing well as he does and Fellbach make history, I´m sure that Deandre Lansdowne will hear about it. In the meantime, he can wait until April 6th and see Lansdowne and his team Chemnitz play in Ulm. A meeting of ex Fort Lewis players would probably be a highlight for both.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 11

Malik Riddle (193-G-1999, college: HSU) is a 24 year old 193cm guard from Tennessee playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro B team RheinStars Cologne. Last season he played with Gzira Athleta Birkirkara (Malta-BOV League D1) averaging 28.8ppg, 9.4rpg, 3.9apg, Steals-3 (2.6spg), FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 75.5%. He began his basketball career at Rossville Christian Academy. He then played 2 seasons at Morehead State University (NCAA) and then played 3 seasons at Henderson State University (NCAA2). He teams up with germanhoops.com every week to talk basketball.

Congrats on the big 95-80 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners. How big was this win after the poor loss last weekend in Oberaching?

It was a great bounce back game after the loss. We got to playing the way we want to play.

The RheinStars exploded in the first quarter with 35 points and allowed only 14 points. Was that some of the best offense the team has played this season in one quarter?

A lot of the offense was generated from our defense. We got stops and were able to get out and run to get easy transition baskets.

The RheinStars had the comfortable 54-32 lead at the break. How key was the work on the offensive glass for being able to have the comfortable lead?

The rebounds were key. As a team we haven’t been doing a great job of that lately but we picked it up this game.

You had a solid 11/5/3/3 game. The stat line looks good, but you shot only 5/19. What is your summary of your shooting performance in that game? Did you not get as well to your spots?

Yeah I did struggle this game with shooting. Mostly probably because I had a minor injury and was trying to get my rhythm back. But not going to hold my head down about it. I had some good looks just didn’t fall.

You next play against Leitershofen who you beat 85-80 at home. The game on the road will be tougher. What will be key to getting win?

Yes this will be a tough game. I think the key thing is who wants it more. Who is willing to play the hardest and execute the best. Trying not to get out played will be the key.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Matt Thomas´s Precision Shooting Powers Alba Berlin Over The Frankfurt Skyliners 75-61

There were times in the history of the Frankfurt-Alba Berlin games over the past 20 years where both were playoff teams whenever they battled each other. They even had exciting playoff series where Frankfurt always gave Germanys capital city team a good run for the money. Then there were times also were Alba Berlin was still a top team and Frankfurt wasn´t a playoff team anymore where the games weren´t always exciting. But now there is a scenario where both are struggling teams, a concept that has never been seen before. The Frankfurt Skyliners are a team that has arrived in 2025 as a team that is fighting to stay in the league. Luckily for them, there is an even worse team then them with BG Goettingen who only have 1 win. In other years Frankfurt would currently be the door mat of the league. Alba Berlin hasn´t had a great year coming in in 13th place with only 2 wins more than Frankfurt. Their abundance in losing is something difficult to digest. They are 3/16 in Euroleague play and the only positive thing for them going into this game was that they had upset FC Bayern Munich last weekend. Alba Berlin was still a scoring club, but defensively were in another galaxy. If Frankfurt had some of their walking wounded back, then this could be a game where they could compete. Frankfurt had their chances in an overall poor offensive performance and when a Trey Calvin is missing and other walking bucket Malik Parsons gets held to 2 points and 1/8 shooting and 5 turnovers, you will have problems winning. Plus coughing up the ball 26 times didn´t help their cause either. “We missed many shots. You can´t have 26 turnovers against a team like Alba Berlin. They did a good job converting on our turnovers and Matt Thomas (195-SG-1994, college: Iowa St.) shot lights out”, stressed New Jersey native Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin didn´t have a great offensive game, but really sparkled on defense for 40 minutes. “We defended very well. Frankfurt was annoyed with our good 1-1 defense. Being able to hold Parsons to 2 points was a big step for us. We didn´t have a good offensive game. If we would have had a better offensive game, then we would of won a lot easier”, stressed Alba Berlin assistant coach Thomas Paech.

Yanni Wezell with the lay in

5000 basketball fans came out on a cold Sunday evening and rapidly saw a lightening start of Alba Berlin as they slapped around Frankfurt taking the quick 15-2 advantage. Alba Berlin had the correct body language and intensity while Frankfurt seemed passive and like they just got out of bed. Alba Berlin did a great job in the paint area dominating Frankfurt. Ex NBA player Matt Thomas scored with a lay in and connected with 3 free throws while NBA draft pick Gabriel Procida of Italy was aggressive and scored twice while German Tim Schneider had 2 dunks. Frankfurt couldn´t match Alba Berlin´s physicality and on offense had problems getting into their sets. Frankfurt finally escaped their funk going on a 12-6 run to trail 21-14. Einaras Tubutis hit 2 three pointers while ex Boston College forward Patrick Heckman and Alaska native Kamaka Hepa scored inside. Frankfurt was more aggressive and played good inside out ball. However Frankfurt couldn´t keep that intensity to the end as Alba Berlin finished with a 5-0 run to lead 26-14 after 10 minutes. Alba Berlin got production from ex LIU Brooklyn (NCAA) player Martin Hermannsson with free throws and a lay in and free throws by Australian center Yanni Wetzell. “We showed our presence on defense right away and had little mistakes”, stated Thoams Paech. “We had a bad start. I was trying to find my feel for the game. I picked up my game then and the team fed off me”, stressed Jordan Theodre. Alba Berlin shot 56% from the field and 0% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 3 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 36% from the field and 29% from outside and had 12 rebounds and 3 turnovers.

Kamaka Hepa at the FT line

In the second quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners rebounded from their poor first quarter and began with a 11-3 run to trail 29-25. In the run Frankfurt began to defend more aggressively while Jordan Theodore and Booker Coplin carried the team. They did all the scoring while the team was getting no production from walking bucket Malik Parsons. “He is young. He had some really great games for us. Other teams defenses are starting to key in on him. He has to find ways around that”, warned Jordan Theodore. But even if Alba Berlin isn´t having a great BBL season, they still have enough offensive talent to get away fast. They went on a lightening 7-0 run as Matt Thomas had 5 points and Procida a pretty reverse alley-oop dunk with the nifty dime from Thomas. “I´m starting to find my rhythm again after my surgery. My team did a great job finding me in the right spots”, stated Matt Thomas. Frankfurt punched back with a swift 5-0 run as Theodore made a lay in and Tubutis another trey to trail 36-30. Thomas nailed another trey and 2022 NBBL champion Elias Rapique made a lay in while Frankfurt countered with another Theodore lay in and massive dunk from 2018 NBBL champion Lorenz Brenneke, but Frankfurt was unable to get over the hump trailing 41-36. “We let them get too much in the zone and allowed them to create and make plays”, said Thomas Paech. “I played more pick and roll and kept the ball in my hands and found guys. We rebounded a lot better”, added Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin shot 48% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 10 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 45% from the field and 25% from the three point line and had 14 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Jordan Theodore with the floater

In the third quarter both teams struggled offensively and Frankfurt cut it down to 3 points, but once again couldn´t get over the hump and missed golden opportunities. Canadian David Muenkat got Frankfurt on the board first with a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 41-38, but couldn´t get stops as Alba Berlin reacted with a 5-0 run to lead 46-38. Matt Thomas stroked home another three pointer and Hermannsson hit a 20 footer. Frankfurt didn´t give up and just continued fighting and chipping away at the guests lead as Tubutis made a lay in and Hepa a clutch trey to get close again trailing 46-43. Tubutis not only had his shooting stroke on, but he was on fire on defense as he kept making big blocks and steals and had 5 blocks and 3 steals after 40 minutes. “My defense stood out, but that’s how I play. I don´t think they expected that from me. I just did my job”, said Einaras Tubutis. Frankfurt just couldn´t get over the hump as Alba Berlin always found a way to hurt Frankfurt with 1-1 play. Procida made a lay and Wetzell a tip in dunk for the 56-48 advantage. Parsons continued to have the goose egg and was 0/5 and Alba Berlin led 57-48 after 30 minutes. “Our 1-1 defense stopped them. We kept Parsons and Theodore under control”, said Thomas Paech. “We had so many opportunities and missed open shots”, added Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin shot 41% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 30 rebounds and 15 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 40% from the field and 25% from the parking lot and had 26 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

Matt Thomas at the FT line

In the fourth quarter Alba Berlin did a super job managing the lead and never let Frankfurt get closer than 8 points. Rapique and Muenkat traded baskets to begin, but Alba Berlin still led 59-51. After Schneider made a catch and pop shot, Malik Parsons finally made his first field goal at the 6,13 minute mark, but Frankfurt still trailed 61-53. This could have been a golden moment for Parsons to keep producing, but it just wasn´t to be. It was a just one of those days where nothing worked for him. Thomas then hit another clutch trey as did Schneider as Alba Berlin extended their lead to 68-56. Time was winding down as Frankfurt realized that they weren´t going to win this game. Wetzell made a floater down the stretch and Schneider a lay in while Coplin made a 15 footer and Muenkat a lay in, but Frankfurt trailed 72-60. Hermannsson then put an exclamation point on the victory with Alba Berlin´s 7th three pointer of the game and the win. “We stuck to our game plan tonight. We played great 1-1 defense, but also great team defense forcing them to 26 turnovers. Matt Thomas was the only good offensive player for us. He made the difference. He isn´t only important as a shooter, but also as a leader”, warned Thomas Paech. “It was my fault. I have to play better. I have to score more and get more assists”, warned Jordan Theodore. Alba Berlin was led by Matt Thomas with 28 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Einaras Tubutis with 14 points while Jordan Theodore had 13 points and 8 assists. Alba Berlin shot 39% from the field and 23% from outside and had 39 rebounds and 18 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 39% from the field and 20% from outside and had 37 rebounds and 26 turnovers.

Jeff Garrett Feels That The Niners Have Beautiful Chemistry And Their Success As Of Late Is Credited To Less Talking And More Walking

Jeff Garrett (201-F-1994, college: LSUS, agency: Players Group) is a 30 year old 201cm forward playing his 6th professional season and second with the Niners Chemnitz (BBL). He also has vast experience overseas having played in Lithuania, Ukraine, Finland and Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at Oldsmar Christian high school in Florida. He then played 2 NCAA seasons with Northern Kentucky University (NCAA) and in his last season played with : Louisiana State University at Shreveport (NAIA) averaging 18.8ppg, 14.1rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6bpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 75.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 85-66 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners.

Congrats on the big 85-66 win. With what kind of focus was the Niners coming into the game? It must have been big? To keep the winning streak alive and have self-confidence going into the tough Basketball Champions league game.

The focus was huge going in. We had been struggling as of late with highs and lows. But in the last few games, I feel like we put that aside and come together and played well. Coach Pastore also has been important doing all he can to help us get better. It has been less talking and more walking. We have been more aggressive and have put it all together.

What kind of an impression did the team have of the Frankfurt Skyliners before the game? They beat Ulm recently and played FC Bayern Munich tough.

They are a pretty good team. We had a big awareness of their guard play of Theodore, Parsons and Calvin. They are an overall good shooting team.

The team now has a 2 game BBL winning streak. Before that you had suffered a 5 losing streak. Was the losing streak as bad as it seemed? Besides the bad loss against Bonn, you took Ludwigsburg and Bamberg to the wire.

Yes no doubt. We know that we are a good team. We had had a winning streak already this season. We just had a time where we weren´t figuring it out as a team.

What did the Niners learn from the gruesome loss against the Telekom Baskets Bonn where you allowed 123 points?

That on any given night, this can happen in this league. It was a terrible performance and really hurt our pride. That loss really hit this organization. That can never happen again.

With what kind of game plan did the team go into the game? You had the comfortable 22-13 lead after 10 minutes?

We have to keep our foot on the gas pedal and not get lax. We can´t fall on our heels. We did a good job applying the pressure. They didn´t like our physicality.

The Niners went on a little run at the end of the first quarter hitting three´s, getting drives and going to the free throw line. What adjustments did the Niners make half way through the first quarter?

Keep our foot on the gas pedal and realize what got us there. We moved the ball well, got in the paint and limit their second chances.

How key were the 2 three´s by Uguak and yourself in the first 85 seconds of the second quarter. Did that Paralize the Skyliners?

Yes no doubt. Our atmosphere is great in the arena. We were ready and made the punch. It was the deal breaker and we capitalized on it.

Jordan Theodore had 9 points in the second quarter. Without his production, the Niners would have been up 25-30 points How much of a focus was he for the team?

We are all competitors at the end of the day, we all knew how good he was. He has a lot of experience and we didn´t take him lightly.

What was your impression of Jordan Theodore? 10 years ago he led Frankfurt to the Fiba Europe Cup. He still looks really good for 35.

He is a good player. He tough at 35. He looked good. I didn´t know he was that old. He is a bit older than me.

The Niners did a great job keeping Malik Parsons to 4 points in the first half. How difficult is it to keep him in front of you? What is his toughest attribute? His athleticism, quickness or shiftiness?

His shiftiness and quickness is toughest to contain. I hate guarding those types of players. He is a complete player. You can´t sag off him. He can do it all.

You led Frankfurt 48-27 at the break. In the third quarter the Niners kept up the pressure. What did Rodrigo Pastore tell the team to do in the third quarter?

He told us to keep execute and finish the play. We allowed as good as no second chance points after the first quarter except for the end where we put in some of the young guys. We did a good job not letting them creep back and just play our game.

The Niners led as much as by 26 points. So many guys stepped up. How good is the team chemistry at his juncture of the season?

Our team chemistry has grown to be beautiful. No matter what happens and through all adversary that we have seen, we have continued to stay on the same page. When it gets rocky, you see our true character.

Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run in the fourth quarter. Was that big lead in your heads a bit too much in the first minutes?

It´s basketball. It´s a game of run. We still did a good job countering and finishing the game well.

How proud are you of the team that you finished strong after the Skyliners run?

As one of the leaders on the team, I´m really proud of the team. We held our heads up high.

The Niners had 5 guys score in double figures. It shot 48% from outside and had 21 assists. What was the team´s biggest strength on this night?

We moved the ball very well. We have good guard play. When we understand what coach wants, we can add the sauce. We as a team can do special things.

The defense hasn´t always been solid, but against Frankfurt was sharp again. You were only the third team to keep Malik Parsons under 10 points. What was the team´s biggest strength on defense?

I think that when we stay solid and not gamble and finish the play and secure the rebound, then we are very tough. That is a big difference maker.

You next play an exciting series against Turkish team Manisa in the Basketball Champions League. What will be key to get series win?

It´s very simple. We see it as a new season. We haven´t done so well in the BCL and this just another opportunity for us to advance and show everyone that we are a better team than in the past.

Do you have any News Years resolutions for 2025?

I don´t. For me every day is a new opportunity to get better. I don´t need to take another year.

Thanks Jeff for the chat.

Mr Perfect Ivan Crnjac Goes 12/12 With 33 Points Powering Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners Past The Niners Chemnitz Academy 114-90

Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners continue to be on a mission as their winning ways continue as they were sprouting an excellent 6-0 record. They have been successful with good team basketball led by their trio of Crnjac, Omog and Edoka. But they knew that if they wanted to take their unbeaten streak into Christmas, they would have to get by the Niners Chemnitz again. Last weekend, the 2 clubs had met in Chemnitz where Frankfurt escaped with a thrilling 95-93 victory where Ivan Crnjac (203-F-2007) led the charge with 21 points. Despite the Niners Chemnitz having a 3-4 record, Frankfurt couldn´t underestimate them and had to be on their A game to continue their winning streak. Frankfurt was without Namori Omog while Chemnitz was without 3 key players. On a mild Sunday afternoon in Frankfurt, history was made as German shooting star Ivan Crnjac had a perfect game going 12/12 from the field and 3/3 from the free throw powering Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners past the Niners Chemnitz Academy 114-90. “Ivan was in a little shooting slump, but it was only a phase. He is an outstanding shooter. He has that quick high release and just knows how to shoot”, stressed Skyliners Juniors head coach Sepher Tarrah. But it wasn´t only Crnjac who sparkled, but the whole team came together and had an amazing offensive game shooting out the lights. Frankfurt let up on the defensive end in the second half, but a win is all that matters in the end. “In the first half, we hit everything. It was crazy. It is only normal that a team won´t have as much focus and energy after a first half like that. I still think that we played well. I´m really proud of the team”, stressed Frankfurt forward Ivan Crnjac. Then Niners Chemnitz Academy stepped up their game in the second half outscoring Frankfurt 49-43 and showed real heart never giving up and playing hard until the end. “We let Frankfurt catch their rhythm to quickly at the start. Their quick start decided the game early. That hurt us mentally. We have to come out with more pride and play together more. We played with more pride in the second half. We gave up too many open three´s. We have to do a better job closing out and helping on rotations”, added Niners Chemnitz Academy Academy player Daniel Duhajsky.

Maximillian Peters with the lay in

In the first quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners exploded for an incredible 41 points while Niners Chemnitz Academy Academy mustered only 22 points which would have looked normal in almost any other kind of circumstance. Frankfurt got off to a rapid start leading 7-2 as Ivan Crnjac added 5 points. The Niners Chemnitz Academy stayed tough and tied the game at 7-7 with a bucket from Duhajsky and a trey from Chris Wahren. But Frankfurt were just getting started as they exploded on a 21-6 run to lead very comfortably 28-13. In the run Frankfurt continued to play great team basketball as the duo of Crnjac and Julius Messer added 8 points apiece and 2 three´s a piece. Frankfurt was defending aggressively getting stops which heighted their self confidence for their offensive sets. Frankfurt didn´t let up and continued to execute excellent at both ends of the court. Frankfurt continued to share the ball nicely as Maximillian Peters scored as did Julius Messer and Crnjac added 4 more points. The Frankfurt bench also stepped up as German Finley Pruever made a steal and transition basket. It would have looked a lot worse for Chemnitz, but talented Luca Kellig added 6 points late to give them a bit of energy. “Frankfurt gave a real offensive firework. After a while you had the feeling of not knowing who scored as so many scored. We had great ball movement and the bench stepped up. Many guys on the bench would start for other teams”, stated Fraport Skyliners Juniors head coach Sepehr Tarrah. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot an overwhelming 85% from the field and 75% from outside and had 5 rebounds and 2 turnovers while The Niners Chemnitz Academy shot 62% from the field and 40% from outside and had 3 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Luca Kellig at the FT line

In the second quarter Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners didn´t score as dominantly as in the first quarter, but tightened up their defense allowing only 17 points and led 71-41 at half-time. Ivan Crnjac was 7/7 in the first quarter and in the second quarter began quickly hitting his shots making 3 more shots to be 10/10 at the break. He made a left handed hook and 2 reverse layups where the team displayed incredible unselfishness as the extra pass was the sixth man. Lennard Glowka added 2 baskets, but Frankfurt still had the immense 51-29. It seemed like almost anything Frankfurt attempted to do on offense worked. Everybody got minutes and gave their 2 cents in the win. Role player Chris Widmer who usually doesn´t get many minutes made a runner and finished with 6 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 14 minutes. “I respect Chris´s game a lot. He brings great energy from the bench and has good basketball qualities. He is a very good teammate”, stressed Ivan Crnjac. Greek player Konstantinos Kapetanakis gave Frankfurt additional energy from the bench with a trey to give Frankfurt the 56-30 advantage. He finished with 7 points and 2 dimes in 11 minutes. “He is a real hustler. He defends the way how Greek players do in Greece. He is a very aggressive defender. He needs to find more calmness though as a point guard. But he just came back from an injury”, stated Ivan Crnjac. Frankfurt continued to execute well, but so did The Niners Chemnitz Academy Academy, but they couldn´t get over the hump. Frankfurt got 2 more baskets from Julius Messer, but also additional support from the bench as Pruever nailed a trey, Widmer a lay in and Fabrice Heberer made free throws. “We got many easy baskets. I would estimate somewhere around 40 of the 71 were easy baskets. I feel like the 41 points were ok in a game that had a high tempo and many possessions”, stated Sephehr Tarrah. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 77% from the field and 69% from the three point line and had 18 rebounds and 4 turnovers while The Niners Chemnitz Academy shot 45% from the field and 36% from the three point line and had 11 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

Fabrice Heberer from downtown

In the third quarter The Niners Chemnitz Academy had their strongest quarter outscoring Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners 26-20, but still trailed 91-67 after 3 quarters. Frankfurt got real hot going on a massive 14-2 run to have the overwhelming 85-43 lead. In the run, Jamie Edoka hit a trey while Messer made a lay in on transition while Ivan Crnjac added 9 points with 2 three´s and three free throws. It would be the last points and shots that Ivan Crnjac would take on this night. His incredible stat line was 33 points in 19 minutes at that point. “I feel great with this perfect game. It was my first in my career. It gives me added self-confidence that I really need now. I had been in a shooting slump during the last few Pro B games. I´m really relived to shoot so well. A perfect game is best for the self-confidence. I actually had a bad feeling going in as my index finger was tapped as some skin had rubbed off before the game. I was taking all my shots using my last 3 fingers and not my index finger pushing off. But it worked in my favor”, smiled Ivan Crnjac. That was about all the offense that Frankfurt would display in the third quarter as The Niners Chemnitz Academy took a page from Frankfurt´s excellent execution closing out the third quarter with a lethal 24-6 run to trail only by 24 points after 3 quarters. In the run, the guests got solid production from many sides as their team basketball sparkled. Chris Wahren added 6 points with 2 three´s while Glowka added 5 points while the Alfons brother chipped in with 7 points. “Our intensity went down. We began well with a big run, but then just lost our intensity. The whole team let up on defense. We were unconcentrated. We had the win wrapped up in our minds. I wish we could of finished the game better, but that is part of the game”, warned Ivan Crnjac. “We did a good job sticking together and trusting each other. We just stuck to the game plan and hit more shots. With more points, our confidence rose”, added Daniel Duhajsky. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 71% from the field and 63% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 9 turnovers while The Niners Chemnitz Academy Shot 50% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 18 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

Alfons Milatz with the drive

In the fourth quarter both teams executed well on offense, but The Niners Chemnitz Academy couldn´t make any ground as both teams swapped 23 points apiece. The guests began quickly getting 2 baskets from Duhajsky and 1 from Glowka, but Julius Messer slowed down some of that energy nailing back to back three´s giving Frankfurt some extra leverage leading 97-73. Messer has been back a few weeks after a long injury, but he has needed no adjustment time as he finished with 26 points in 25 minutes. “He is a very interesting player. He is a real athlete. He has a good combination between strength and quickness. He is a 3 level scorer”, stated Sepher Tarrah. After German Noah Spindler hit a trey, it was Jamie Edoka who hit the 101 points and has donuts duty for the team. He continued to be aggressive adding a three pointer and dunk for the 106-84 lead. Down the stretch, Spindler added another trey as did Fabrice Heberer. It was a game where offense ruled as a total of 204 points were produced. Ivan Crnjac played 4 plus minutes in the fourth quarter but attempted no shots to remain perfect. “I didn´t want to force anything at the end. I let other guys take over”, stated Ivan Crnjac. “We wanted to finish with pride. We defended a lot better and just finished strong”, stated Daniel Duhajsky. “We weren´t in the game anymore. We made many turnovers not from their defense, but our offense. We played for ourselves”, added Ivan Crnjac. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Ivan Crnjac with 33 points. Julius Messer added 26 points while Jamie Edoka had 23 points, 12 boards and 5 assists while The Niners Chemnitz Academy were led by Lennard Glowka with 21 points. Daniel Duhajsky added 20 points and Luca Kellig 16 points. Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners shot 69% from the field and 62% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 14 turnovers while The Niners Chemnitz Academy shot 52% from the field and 37% from outside and had 22 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Going From An Enforcer On The Court To Being A Tycoon Could Be In The Cards For Jacob Polakovich(Bakken Bears) One Day

How often does one hear about rich athletes going from the top of the mountain down to the gutter with losing their whole fortune that they made playing the game that they love. In the NBA, there have been those amazing players like an Antoine Walker, Vin Baker and Glen Rice who made millions, but then lost it all. Fortunately for them all have recovered and have found a way to get back into society and turn their lives around for them. A very good majority of professional players overseas will never make millions before their playing careers are over, but they also have to know how to handle their money while playing and have some sort of plan b ready when the day comes when they hang up their sneakers. One of those guys is Jacob Polakovich (208-C-2000, college: S.Indiana). He hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan and has parents that have separate business´s that are flourishing. His late dad Jimmy owned a restaurant called South Side Jimmy´s while his mom started up a flower market. Having such ambitious parents like that can steer a son in that direction one day. Their direction helped him decide to pursue a management degree at the Romain college of Business at the University of Southern Indiana. There is a good chance he will go into the family business, but if he had a choice to start his own business, he would know exactly which kind it would be. “If I started another business, I would want to open an animal shelter or some business where I can help give animals and dogs specifically better homes”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He is only in his second professional season and still has a long playing career ahead of him, but he understands now that he has to be prepared one day to be a business man. “I think that the most important thing is to work on maintaining and creating connections with people. In most situations you will learn more and have more opportunities from knowing the right people and through having a positive reputation. I also try to learn where I can from reading different books and talking to people who have jobs that interest me”, warned Jacob Polakovich.

Jacob Polakovich who lists ex Auburn (NCAA) player Jabari Smith as his toughest opponent in school was born on May 1st, 2000 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He began his basketball career at Catholic Central high school and then played at the University of Indianapolis (NCAA) from 2018-2020 amassing a total of 55 games. In his freshman season he averaged 2,3ppg and 3,4 boards in 8 minutes, but then made a drastic jump to 18 minutes and averaged 8,4ppg and 6,5rpg in his second season. There was a distinct reason for his why his game was propelled to new heights. “The biggest thing for me between those two seasons was getting into better physical condition. I lost. 15 pounds and came back a better, faster, and stronger version of myself”, remembered Jacob Polakovich. He hit Mckendree for 16 points and UMSL for 15 points while having a massive 14/14 performance against Maryville, MO. Despite making a jump in his second season, he transferred to the University of Southern Indiana following his coaches John Spruance and Stan Gouard. He proved there that he could adjust from division 2 to division 1. In his 2 seasons there he averaged 11.5ppg, 11.3rpg, FGP: 61.7% and as a senior 12.2ppg, 12.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 55.9%, FT: 51.4%. “I think that my game grew after moving up a division because I was playing with a chip on my shoulder. I had no Division 1 offers coming out of high-school even though I knew I was good enough to play at that level, and took every game as an opportunity to prove that to myself”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He had many stellar games like having a 27/10 game in the exciting 82-81 win over UALR or 27 points/26 rebounds in the tight win over Semo or a 28/12 game in a win over UIS. “The best memory I have from NCAA 2 was being named the 1 seed in the NCAA tournament my sophomore year. I really do believe that we would have won the national championship that season if covid never happened”, added Jacob Polakovich. He had 5 games with 20 or more rebounds in his senior year and understood what it took to be able to achieve such wild stats. “I think that’s a testament to my work ethic and extremely high motor. Ever since I remember, I was never the fastest or most athletic player on the court so I learned at a young age that if I was able to use a combination of strength and an extremely high motor, I would be able to affect the game in ways that other players don’t necessarily want to. I truly believe that the best way to make a large impact on the game is to do all of the little things the right way. And one of those little things is chasing after every single missed shot and loose ball with 100% intensity”, warned Jacob polakovich. Who knows how his game might have developed further under a different coaching staff, but being able to play for the same coaches for 4 years had a massive impact on him on and off the court. “I could not put a price on the impact Coach Gouard, Spruance, and Aldridge had on not only my career, but also my development as a young man. They invested so much time and energy into me and dreams, and I can honestly say that I would not be anywhere near the player I am today without them. They taught me that if I had the right commitment and work ethic, I can play at any level and be effective”, warned Jacob Polakovich who remembers beating teammate Nick Hittle in 1-1 battles in practice..

The Michigan native who lists Jimmy king, Jordache Mavunga, Jelani Simmons, Marcus Bingham, and Austin Braun as his 5 best teammates of all-time began his professional career overseas with Moncada Energy Agrigento (Italy-Serie A2) averaging 10.1ppg, Reb-1 (10.8rpg), 1.1apg, FGP: 56.4%, FT: 46.2%. It is never easy making the transition from your comfort zone in school to being on your own overseas and every guy has their own wake up call to being a rookie. “I remember when we went through a stretch early where we lost a handful of games in a row, and I did not play near the level that I know I am capable of. I found myself constantly beating myself up and stressing about how my play would affect my future, instead of being thankful for the position I had put myself in to play professional basketball in the first place. Once I reminded myself that I was living out the dream that I had worked so hard to achieve, I found myself playing better and enjoying myself much more too”, commented Jacob Polakovich. He scored in double figures 20 times and registered 16 double doubles. He had a monster game against Milano Riana of 16/24, but wasn´t totally content with his own effort. “Directly after, I was disappointed in myself after that game for the way I played defensively, and it really felt like a game that we had won until some mistakes at the end. Looking back though I think that that game was a great testament to the style of basketball I play, and the way that I am able to affect the game through my strength and energy”, expressed Jacob Polakovich. Making bonds right away with teammates is always beneficial in helping with the adjustment as he witnessed with fellow big man Mait Peterson. “Mait and I both had a lot of similarities in our playstyles and became good friends off the court as well. The main way we made each other better in practice every day was by playing as physical as possible every single day”, added Jacob Polakovich.

The rebound monster who lists Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Micheal Jordan, Shaquille O´Neal, and Tim Duncan on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his second professional season with the Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He hasn´t regretted making this decision to move to Denmark. “So far, it has been an amazing experience to play at such a historical club. You can tell that the culture here runs deep from talking to everybody involved with the club at every level; from those that work in the offices, to the coaches and players. The most enjoyable part of playing for Bakken has been competing in European competition through the ENBL, and seeing how we match up with top teams from other countries. I have learned to love how much Denmark, and Aarhus specifically, has felt so similar to home. There are obviously days where I am homesick and missing family, but the people here have been so welcoming that I really do enjoy my time here”, said Jacob Polakovich. The organization has won an incredible 33 titles and they are simply used to winning. “Being a part of such a historical task comes with a lot of pressures to win and perform, however I think what makes Bakken so successful is the ways they are able to truly make it feel like one big family. No player or staff member is treated above another, and we are all a unit working towards the same final goal; two championships. I feel that I have been able to learn a lot about my game since arriving here, and will only learn more from all of the great basketball minds around me before the season comes to an end”, stated Jacob Polakovich. He has amazing teammates especially with veterans Urald King and Skyler Bowlin who could tell him some tales from the German culture and it´s basketball. “Urald has already had a huge impact on me and the way I see the game. He is another person similar to Skyler in the way that they are both great players, but even better people. I try my best to constantly ask both of them questions and try to take the opportunity to learn where I can, because I hope to have similar careers to both of them. Playing with Skyler has been a great opportunity to learn how to be a better leader on and off the court. He has helped me realize just how much your reputation off the court matters to help boost your career, and when you look at the success he has had; it proves that”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. He may only be in his second professional season, but he has enough experience to help young Danish player Andreas Holst with his game. “Andreas is a special young talent. Even in the few months I have been here, I have seen him improve at very fast rate. I think that he has the chance to be an amazing player, especially after a couple more years of development. The main way I try to help him develop is by trying to be physical with him, and teaching him to be more physical with others”, added Jacob Polakovich.

The ex Indianapolis (NCAA) center who lists Lebron James as his GOAT and believes that the classic Coming To America flick with Eddie Murphy should have been left alone is a center that would compare his game to a Domantas Sabonas mainly because of how physical he is and because he plays with a high motor. He has shown no difficulty coming from Italy and being consistent in the Danish league having 11/6 stats in 20 minutes and 11/7 stats in the ENBL. “My role on this team is to be an enforcer on the inside, and to bring a different level of physicality and energy every minute I am on the floor. I think that when I am attacking the glass hard and exploiting mismatches, I am helping the team in the best way I can”, warned Jacob Polakovich. He is so much more than just a scorer and rebounder, but also has that playmaking skills in his game. “I think that I am a much better passer than my Assist numbers show. I am a very confident passer playing out of short rolls and post ups, and feel that I am underrated in that aspect”, stressed Jacob Polakovich. On the defensive end, he is a player that can affect the game in other ways than just registering many steals and blocks. “Defensively I do think that I affect the game positively in different ways. Mainly as a rebounder, but also through my physical presence inside the paint. I think that although I don’t block a lot of shots or make a lot of steals, I play with an energy and intensity that most players do not match”, stated Jacob Polakovich. He is continuing to develop, but at the same time also improving his game at both ends. “ The main thing I am working on this season is my perimeter defense for sure. I want to become a player who can defend all positions, and think that I am slowly improving at that aspect. The other thing that I have been trying to incorporate in my game this season is an outside shot. It is something that I have been working at on my own, and think that I have the ability to be great at”, warned Jacob Polakovich. In the ENBL, he is battling against Bamberg, a team that once belonged to the best clubs in the easyCredit BBL. He is aware of how much respected the BBL is. “The main thing I know about the Bundesliga is that it is one of the most competitive basketball leagues in the world. From the top of the league to the bottom, every team has an extremely high level of talent. I think that it will be a great test not only for the team, but I am excited to also test myself against such a high level team”, said Jacob Polakovich. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop. Who knows, he may pull a Skyler Bowlin. Back In the 2015-2016 season, Skyler Bowlin suited up with the Sodertalje Kings (Sweden-Basketligan) and hit Frankfurt with 18 points in a Fiba Europe Cup game. Head coach Denis Wucherer witnessed him and signed him for the next season with Pro A team Giessen. Bowlin was an instrumental part in the team moving up to the BBL a season later. Who knows, maybe one day we will see Jacob Polakovich battling bigs in the easyCredit BBL.

No Minutes Restrictions At The End For TJ Crockett As He Serves Up Clutch Three and Rebound in 92-91 Braunschweig Win Over Frankfurt

After more than 6 weeks on the road, the Frankfurt Skyliners finally were back in their own living room. They couldn´t take advantage of the road posting a dismal 1-4 record, but did reach the BBL cup top 4 with a big win in Goettingen. Despite that, they then lost a tough game in Wurzburg being totally overpowered in the last quarter. With a poor 2-7 record and near the BBL cellar, they were more than desperate for a win against the pesky 4-4 Braunschweig team who came to Frankfurt with a 2 game winning streak. An old friend was back for his third tour of duty with the Skyliners with Jordan Theodore who helped Frankfurt win the Fiba Europe Cup title in 2016. Frankfurt had a must win situation as another loss would continue their downward spiral in the standings. Despite another great scoring performance of the American duo of Calvin and Parsons who combined for 46 points, the Frankfurt Skyliners lost a heartbreaker 92-91 to the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. Frankfurt fought hard for 40 minutes, but at the end it was the little mistakes that cost them the win. “We began the game very well playing at a high level. We played with a lot of confidence and had a good flow. But in the second quarter our tempo slowed up. We have to be able to maintain a high intensity and energy for 40 minutes. We lost focus mentally. It began with me and that trickled down to the rest”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner Jordan Theodore. Braunschweig did a good job punching back whenever Frankfurt punched first and just did a great job staying poised in crunch-time and took advantage of the little mistakes that Frankfurt made. “We had a tough start as Frankfurt executed very well and hit shots. We knew we had to get stops in the second half and did a better job playing defense. Our biggest strength tonight was our grit. We never gave up. It was a real challenge playing against Calvin and Parsons”, stressed Braunschweig guard TJ Crockett (187-G-1999, college: Lindenwood).

David Muenkat at the FT line

5000 fans showed up in the Suwag arena in Frankfurt on a Friday night and saw the Frankfurt Skyliners totally overpower Braunschweig in the first quarter netting 31 points. Both teams found their rhythm quickly as ex Kentucky (NCAA) forward Tre Mitchell got his stroke going early netting 5 points, while Jordan Theodore found his touch as well making a trey. Frankfurt also got the arena cooking early as Canadian David Muenkat went coast to coast with a thunderous 2 handed dunk that had many in the arena jumping up and down as Frankfurt led 9-5. Frankfurt continued to execute well as Theodore launched another trey and connected and Einaras Tubutis made a lay in for the 16-10 lead, but Braunschweig punched back with a deep trey by Luka Scuka and a trey by TJ Crockett who had a little Damian Lillard going with his step back jumper to dead lock the contest at 16-16. “I hope it looked a little like him. I really try to imitate his game”, smiled TJ Crockett. But then out of nowhere the Frankfurt Skyliners exploded on a 15-4 run to lead 31-20 after one quarter. Ex Wright State guard Trey Calvin scored 8 unanswered points showing his potent scoring abilities with 2 three´s and a step back jumper. Parsons added free throws in the attack while Brenneke made a lay in and Calvin ended the scoring display with another three pointer. Frankfurt lived off their 1-1 play and totally flaunted it while Braunschweig got lost in Frankfurt´s momentum. “Every team is good in the BBL. They played pretty well for their spot in the standings. They executed at a high level”, stressed Ty Crockett.

Luka Scuka from outside

The Frankfurt Skyliners kept control in the second quarter, but allowed Braunschweig to get dangerously close in the last minutes and led only by 5 points at the break. Both teams produced runs in the first minutes as the guests began well with a 7-1 run as 2019 JBBL MVP Benjamin Schroeder got a lay in, Lithuanian point guard Arnas Velickas hit a deep three pointe and ex G-League player Barra Njie made a lay in as Frankfurt led only 32-27. However Frankfurt punched back with a 7-3 run to lead 38-30. In the run Muenkat delivered a hook shot while Theodore made 2 finger tip lay in´s as his speed and execution on the drive looked spot on and like 9 years ago when he was in Frankfurt for his first tour of duty. Frankfurt came back being aggressive on offense getting easy buckets in the paint from Brenneke and Coplin to lead 43-34. Braunschweig had their down phases on defense lacking intensity at times and Frankfurt took advantage of their little mistakes. The game of runs continued as Braunschweig punched back with a 8-2 run to trail 45-43. Braunschweig got the free throw line and continued to attack the paint area and used their quickness and athleticism to tear apart Frankfurt as Crockett and ex Vechta American Chavaras Flanigan scored easily while Velicka added 4 points in the run. “Ar as we call Velicka really runs the point well. He made big plays and is a big part of your success”, added Ty Crockett. Frankfurt got a massive basket at the end from ex Bremerhaven guard Garai Zeeb who made the most of his opportunity with limited minutes as he drilled home a three pointer and the 48-43 advantage at the break. “We had to get stops. We made it as difficult as possible for them and got out on transition”, said TJ Crockett.

Jordan Theodore with the finger tip lay in

The Basketball Lowen Braunschwieg had their strongest scoring quarter in the third quarter netting 26 points and stealing the lead back and led by 4 points after 30 minutes. Frankfurt came out slow and gave up 9 unanswered points as Braunschweig stole the lead back at 52-48. In the run the guests attacked the paint area getting free throws from Scuka and Njie while German Sanada Fru and Velicka scored easy lay ups. Frankfurt needed some instant energy and got it from 2024 Danish champion Malik Parsons who produced 6 points to tie the game at 54-54. Braunschweig kept chipping away and got free throws from Fru and another trey from Velicka to lead 59-54, but the one man show from Parsons continued as he made free throws and another lay in as Frankfurt trailed 59-56. Braunschweig continued to do a good job getting to the free throw line as Scuka and Flanigan scored to lead 65-58. If it wasn´t Parsons, then it was Calvinthzat showed responsibility and a real potent scoring attack as he steered home 5 straight points as Frankfurt trailed 65-63. Frankfurt continued to have massive difficulty with their 1-1 defense as Flanigan and ex Giessen guard Ferdinand Zylka scored for the 69-63. Frankfurt was lucky at the end that Velicka missed 2 free throws and served up an airball as they took advantage of that getting an off balance jumper from Minnesota native Booker Coplin in the corner to trail 69-65. “We rebounded better and got out on transition. We also got more touches inside and got to the free throw line and also made big plays”, stated TY Crockett. “We started slow and had no rhythm. That wasn´t Skyliner basketball. Parsons and Calvin were hot the whole game. I had to feed them the ball”, added Jordan Theodore.

Tre Mitchell at the FT line

In the fourth quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners just kept battling and never gave up. They received big shots from their American duo of Calvin and Parsons, but just couldn´t get totally over the hump. Frankfurt really did a good job all game long being aggressive and doing all they could to get to the rim. In the first few minutes of the fourth quarter they were rewarded with free throws from Parsons and Coplin and Parsons then nailed a trey to tie the game at 73-73. Mitchell gave braunschweig some energy with a pretty three pointer, but Frankfurt always had an answer as Parsons drilled home a three pointer to trail 78-77. Frankfurt continued to get no stops in the paint as Njie got free throws and even was aggressive on the offensive glass with a tip in and 84-79 Braunschweig lead. Frankfurt continued to have answers and executed well as Theodore made free throws and a lay in and Calvin nailed a deep three pointer to tie the game at 84-84 with 54 seconds remaining. Mitchell then countered with a pretty hook shot, but Parsons punched back with a lay in to tie the game at 86-86. ““We showed that we were mentally strong. We have had some tough loses this season. We showed resilience. We had a good attitude and just kept chipping away”, added Jordan Theodore. “We stayed together and just kept fighting. We never gave up”, warned Ty Crockett. With 15 seconds remaining, Ty Crockett made a clutch three pointer for the 89-86 lead. Calvin then made free throws to trail 89-88. Crockett them made one free throw and then got a crucial offensive rebound off his miss. That led to 2 more Velicka free throws and the 92-88 Braunschweig lead. “I was surprised I got back into the game. I had minutes restriction after coming back from injury. But coach drew up a play for me. I found my spot and made it”, stressed Ty Crockett. “The offensive rebound by Crockett was my fault. It bounced right back to him. That was crazy”, stressed Jordan Theodore. With 2,5 seconds to go and down 4 points, Trey Calvin made a crazy half court shot that banked in. Any other situation, it would have been the shot of the year and the arena would have been bedlam. Instead the arena was very quiet after it dropped in. “Maybe the league should make a 4 point shot. The arena would have gone crazy if it had been a 4 point shot”, smiled Jordan Theodore. The Basketball Lowen Braunschweig were led by Barra Njie, Arnas Velica and Luka Scuka with 15 points a piece while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Trey Calvin with 24 points and malik Parsons added 22 points. The Basketball Lowen Braun schweig shot 47% from the field and 33% from outside and had 25 rebounds and 14 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 55% from the field and 61% from outside and had 34 rebounds and 20 turnovers.

German Hoops

Covering Basketball In Germany!

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