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Having Dad Yassin At Games Is Like A Gift For Malik Idbihi(Dragons Rhondorf)

When visiting games in the Dragon Dome in Bad Honnef, you are always bound to see some noteworthy basketball heads. Seeing players from easyCredit BBL team Telekom Baskets is nothing unusual when they have a night off. However sometimes you also see other basketball figures like a Kamil Novak, the Executive director of FIBA and who played with the Dragons Rhondorf more than 20 years ago or on other occasions seeing basketball 221 meter giant Rolf Bibo Mayer who is the father of current Dragons center Daniel Mayr and at a time was the tallest German alive. But there is also another well known German basketball player who is often seen in the Dragon Dome and that is ex German national player Yassin Idbihi. He is currently a scout for Europe for NBA team Charlotte Hornets and when his job isn´t occupying his time, he loves watching his son Khalid who won the German JBBL (U-16) title in 2026 and rookie of the year and 17 year old Malik whom plays for the Dragons Rhondorf and NBBL (U-19) team Bonn-Rhondorf. He isn´t at all games, but his presence in the ´Dragon Dome is very special for Malik. “Having my dad watching me play in the Dragon Dome is like a gift for me. He is very helpful and supports me like a coach and always tells me what I can improve”, stated Malik Idbihi (193-PG-2009). It was the second home game in a row where Yassin found time to observe his son. His dad who was born in Cologne Germany and also has the Moroccan citizenship played at the University of Buffalo (NCAA) and had a fruitful easyCredit BBL career in Germany with elite teams like Alba Berlin, Bamberg and Munich and won 4 titles was a 208cm center while his son is a 193cm point guard. Do the different positions pose a problem with the learning effect? “Not at all. My dad has so much experience and coached here some years ago. He knows how to coach all positions”, smiled Malik Idbihi. In the summers, they don´t only work on his game, but take family vacations to Morocco. “That is also a gift spending time with my family there. We never play basketball there, but may play some football on the beach”, smiled Malik Idbihi.

The second home game didn´t play out as well as the team win over Erfurt as BG Hessing Leitershofen smothered the Dragons Rhondorf 82-68. Rhondorf had an awful shooting day and didn´t come to terms with the aggressive Leitershofen defense despite dominating the boards 55-36. “We couldn´t hit our shots consistently and had no solutions against their defense. They switched all and we relied too much on our three pointer. On offense, they could do what they wanted. We also couldn´t match their physicality”, stated Malik Idbihi. The Dragons Rhondorf also had problems containing Leitershofen´s veterans Bobby Arthur Williams who hit very instrumental three´s as did ex easyCredit BBL player Joanic Bacoul. The club also got valuable support from young German Connor Anderson who had his Pro B break out with 11 points and also gave impulses on defense as did Jannik Westermeir who´s on ball defense gave Rhondorf´s guards fits. The club doesn´t have much time to think about the loss as they have the next game on Wednesday in Frankfurt and then are back at home against top team Fellbach on Saturday. They will have to be on their toes in the coming week. “We have to play better defense, be more aggressive and physical. We also have to find quicker solutions when our shots aren´t falling”, warned Malik Idbihi. As a young player, he has some veterans who are instrumental for the team and also his game like Canadian Mychael Paulo who can create a shot out of nothing or Sahmi “Dennis Rodman with a jump shot” Willoughby who once had a massive Kevin Love like game at Marietta (NCAA 3) against Baldwin Wallace of 22/24. “I love being teammates with both of them. Mychael is such a great player. He seemingly does everything right on the court. He hits shots and always makes the right decision. Sahmi hits shots and plays strong defense. It is a huge pleasure playing with both guys”, smiled Malik Idbihi. He is also teammates with many young guys. Last season it was Dusam Ilic, Carlo Schmid and David Bonning that made big strides in their games and this season, the club hopes it will be guys like Idbihi and Tom Viehofer.

Last season Malik Idbihi played with Team Bonn/Rhoendorf U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 83.3% and had good games against Giessen scoring 16 and 14 games while in the Pro B played 9 games averaging 1,8ppg and scored 8 points against Rostock already showing his talent at that level. This season his game really took off in the first 2 games as he came into the Leitershofen game averaging 11/5/4/1 stats. He had a solid 12/5/3 game against Erfurt and then upped his game against FC Bayern basketball with a very efficient 10/5/5/3 game in only 15 minutes and in the two games shot 36%. However against Leitershofen he was brought back down to reality as he had 2 points an 1 assist in 9,53 minutes and shot 0/6. “I wasn´t happy with my game. I missed all my shots and I rushed my shots. My shot release was too quick. I have to work on that. I have to make offensive decisions quicker. My defense was solid”, commented Malik Idbihi. His role is to play 15 + minutes coming from the bench, but his desire for more is huge. “I want to increase it. I´m very ambitious and want to play even better than what I have shown. My organizing got better over the summer., I´m playing the one more. It is all a learning process”, warned Malik Idbihi. Was his consistency in the first 2 games a surprise since he is still such a young player? “No not at all. Actually the way I played against Leitershofen was more surprising. I am super confident in my abilities. I had a bad game, but that is part of the game. I just have to jump back in the next game. I have that next game mentality”, warned Malik Idbihi. He will definitely have that chance on the weekend in the youth sector and this week when he battles many young talents in Frankfurt.

The EPG Baskets Have Best Start In Their Pro A History As Chase Johnson And His Teammates Are Playing For Tyren Moore The Rest Of The Way

Pic Credit: Angel King Media

Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from North Carolina playing his rookie season overseas with German Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz. He began his basketball career at the Word Of God Christian Academy. He then was one year at the University of North Carolina – Asheville (NCAA) and then played 2 seasons at Gulf Coast State College (JUCO) averaging 13.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 54.1% and 20.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 5.8apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 31.8%, FT: 61.4%. He then played a season at Northwestern State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 53.7%. He then played a season at the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. He then added one more year at Boston College (NCAA) averaging : 6.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 59.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 88-86 road win in Paderborn

Congrats on the big 88-86 win in Paderborn. The team is 3-1 and have their greatest Pro A start in history. How good does that feel as a rookie?

It feels really good. We really expect wins like this. We have big goals. Obviously with Ty Moore out, it isn´t easy. We have to keep going. The league won´t feel sorry for us and we won´t feel sorry for ourselves either.

How proud are you winning the second game in a row without Tyren Moore. Do you guys have that “We are playing for Tyren Moore” attitude?

Yes we are. I remember last night when Badu Buck had us in a huddle before we all got on the bus, he said “We got this win done for him. We are playing for him”. We were all at a loss of words when it was announced that he was done for the season. In our last interview, I told you that we were all wishing him a speedy recovery before knowing how bad his injury really was. We didn´t expect it. It is just amazing to see how all stuck together with 16 down and battling back to win.

How was the bus ride home? Was it more relaxed or was there some celebrating?

It was relaxed. We did our celebrating on the court and in the locker room. On the bus, it was over. We can´t live in the past. We have that next game mentality.

What was the game plan coming in? The team was known as a three point shooting team. They didn´t disappoint heaving it 47 times?

Containing Worku was our biggest game plan. He was my match up. He can shoot the ball, but is also a great creator for their offense. I contained him well. He only scored 4 points. We elected to have other guys try to beat us.

You began the game again as main point guard with no Tyren Moore. Was there less pressure than against Artland or were you totally locked in?

I was totally locked in. I´m used to running the show. Playmaking is really my biggest strength. My shot still isn´t falling and when that happens, then I have to find other ways to impact the game and help my team win.

Paderborn led 23-15 after 10 minutes. They really began hit three´s toward the end, but also found the way to the rim getting easy baskets. What was defensively the biggest problem for the EPG Baskets in the first 10 minutes?

We played the drive a lot and they hit crazy shots. Silic hit some crazy step back three´s. We tried to contest them as best as we could. Gille tried to close out while staying on the side to force the drive. As a result we forced turnovers. We hit a buzzer beater at the end which helped us stay in the game.

In the second quarter a big strength was the fighting qualities of the EPG Baskets. The score was only 43-38, but the deficit could have been 10-15 if Camaron Tongue and Ferenc Gille hadn´t made timely baskets? As a rookie did a quarter like this help your leadership qualities grow?

Yes absolutely. We weren´t hitting shots, so I had to find other ways to get guys engaged. I kept telling my teammates that our run was coming.

What was it like battling against Jonil Fugett. He is another guy who is working his way up the ladder and has big potential. Did he feel your physicality at times?

He definitely felt my physicality. It wasn´t a problem guarding him for me.

How big was the energy needed from German Jannis Sonnefeld? He made a 7-0 run all by himself with 2 dunks. How big was that then at that moment?

Jannis´s energy at that moment was so important for us. My favorite play was his put back dunk in that phase. That really got us hyped. He gave us great support and that was the turning point of the game.

How much does the presence of Camaron Tongue benefit his game?

It helps a lot. Iron sharpens iron. They go at it in practice daily and that helps both guys. Both are key players for us.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz kept fighting and trailed only 68-67 after 30 minutes thanks to a big Jonas Niedermanner trey. What did head coach Stephan Dohrn tell the team for the fourth quarter?

He just told us to finish the game strong and that in no way did we want a copy of the Nurnberg game. We had to make sure that we stay together.

In the third quarter rookie Camaron Tongue scored 3 baskets in a row and after 4 games is the team´s most consistent player. Did you see this type of development when you arrived in August?

He has been awesome and we appreciate it so much what he does night in and night out for us. He has been playing like that since he got here and he is just healthy now and it shows.

In crunch time, Koblenz made a run to get the 88-83 lead, but they stormed back with a Fugett trey, but you then made a big stop on Eyassu Worku. What was key at the end for the win?

I think staying together and sharing the ball well at the end was key. Our stop of Worku at the end was big even if it could have been a foul. All in all though, we were a bit sloppy at the end of the game. We turned the ball over and let Worku go coast to coast, but Tongue made a big play and walled up. We can´t let that happen to a player like that at the end of the game. We still made big plays starting with a Gille offensive rebound lay up and mid range shots by Diculesciú and I and got 3 stops.

What was the key stat? Winning the rebound battle, 8 turnovers or having 74-49 more shots?

We did a good job with getting offensive rebounds and forcing 17 turnovers, but I think the key stat was having the extra possessions and having 25 more shots.

You had a 6/4/8 game but shot 2/10 from the field. What was your summary of your game?

Like I said in our last interview, if my shot isn´t falling, then I have to find other ways to help us win. I can´t cry about my shot not falling. I just have to get up more shots in the gym. I did my job leading the team to victory. I had 8 assists and 0 turnovers. I can be happy about that.

What will you work on most this week?

I will work a lot this week on finishing through contact. I also want to work on my mid range more. I used it at the perfect time yesterday. I want to use it more. I respect the league and continue to get up reps.

How will you spend your Sunday night? Will NFL football be on the program?

I will watch a little NFL. I couldn´t check the schedule much yet, because I was so focused on game yesterday. My team are the Colts.

But your from North Carolina and not Indianapolis?

That is correct. Most people in North Carolina like the Panthers, but I just grew up loving Payton Manning.

Thanks Chase for the chat.

Bobby Arthur-Williams Jr Hits Big Three´s And BG Leitershofen Lock Down Defense Smoothers The Dragons Rohndorf 82-68

There was a lot of excitement after the Dragons Rhondorf big win in their home opener over the Basketball Lowen Erfurt 96-74 and that didn´t change after they won again this time in their first road game in Munich against Fc Basketball 2. They had demonstrated in their first 2 games that they can rely on their potent offense, but this season´s team doesn´t seem to be one dimensional as they want to defend hard and well as a team as they have allowed only 78 points per game. Their opponent for game 3 in the Dragon Dome was the always powerful BG Leitershoefen as they have belonged to the top Pro B teams the last 2 seasons. This season they arrived in Rhondorf with a 1-1 record in their luggage. They were destroyed by top Pro B team Fellbach on the road and then answered well at home beating the weak Speyer team. They have as usual a very talented team, but are still finding themselves. On a cool Autumn evening, BG Lessing Leitershofen finally came together as a team and gave a great defensive performance for 30 minutes smothering the Dragons Rhondorf 82-68 as both teams moved to 2-2. The guests also had a solid offensive performance having 6 guys score in double figures in the attack. “We played great defense and had each others backs. Our philosophy was to play hard defense as much as possible and limit mistakes. We got the job done tonight”, stressed BG Lessing Leitershofen forward Bobby Arthur-Williams (201-F-1997, college: Pitt St., agency: Starting 5). The Dragons Rhondorf couldn´t repeat their fabulous offensive performance against Erfurt as they couldn´t muster any consistent offense against their opponent. “We didn´t play together and couldn´t generate defensive stops the way we wanted to. Their defense gave us problems which resulted us in playing 1-1 and 2-2. We ran our heads through the wall. We had some good moments where we showed signs of coming back, but it wasn´t enough”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf center Daniel Mayr.

Bobby Arthur-Williams at the FT line

In the first quarter the first half was a back a forth slug fest as there were 9 lead changes, but in the second half of the first quarter, the Dragons Rhondorf were able to get away thanks to a run and lead 25-19 after 10 minutes. BG Hessing Leitershofen did a good job getting German Leon Geissler involved early as he scored 6 of the team´s first 10 points. Young German Kenan Reinhart was aggressive in the early going scoring 7 points of the team´s first 12 points to lead 11-10. His trey wasn´t falling early, so he resorted to his drive which has been greatly improved in the last season. The three wasn´t falling for either team as the guests also had to resort to getting to the rim as ex easyCredit BBL player Joanic Bacoul made a lay in as did ex Lok Bernau forward Friedrich Feldrappe to dead lock the contest at 15-15. The Dragons Rhondorf then made the first run of the game ending the first quarter with a lethal 9-4 run to lead by 6 points after one quarter. In the run, Rhondorf did a good job attacking the rim getting lay in´s from ex Skyliner Justin Onjejiaka and ex Skyliner Daniel Mayr. Rhondorf were dominating the boards especially the offensive glass while the guests had 7 fouls. Bacoul made the last shot of the quarter count as he banked a jumper off the back board. “We executed well and played solid defense. They struggled with our pressure”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf guard Josh Petteno. The Dragons Rhondorf shot 39% from the field and 14% from outside and had 16 rebounds and 2 turnovers while BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 43% from the field and 14% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 3 turnovers.

Kenan Reinhart to the hole

The turning point of the game occurred in the second quarter as BG Hessing Leitershofen took a 180 degree turn and exploded for 31 points and led 50-36 at half-time. BG Hessing Leitershofen finally got their offense rolling by moving the ball better and executing better and went on a lethal 28-6 run to lead 47-30. In the run, they got support from many guys like Leon Geissler who added 6 points and was a wrecking machine inside that the Dragons couldn´t contain. The guests also got 7 points from Swiss forward Gael Barman who showed his inside out qualities, got 2 three´s from German Brendan Gregori and three´s from Bacoul and little used young German Connor Anderson. The guests came into the game shooting a miserable 23% from outside and it was only a matter of time where they had to break out. BG Hessing Leitershofen had better spacing and shot selection, but the Dragons also had lost intensity in their defensive game which allowed the guests to finally find that groove. Rhondorf was still getting open shots, but couldn´t execute and began to force more shots. The big Leitershogen run was stopped through a lightening 6-0 run in the last 2 minutes by the Dragons Rhondorf as Onyejiaka nailed a trey as did Ohio native Sahmi Willoughby, but the home team still trailed by 14 points at the break. BG Hessing Leitershofen stepped up their defensive intensity and a mix out of zone and switching was stifling the Dragons with their offensive sets. “They upped their pace and tightened their defense. We weren´t able to scramble the way we wanted to. They also made the right decisions and we couldn´t handle their pressure”, commented Josh Petteno. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 51% from the field and 35% from the three point line and had 20 rebounds and 4 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 30% from the field and 21% from the three point line and had 27 rebounds and 6 turnovers.

Leon Giessler with the lay in

In the third quarter BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to manage their lead well and didn´t allow the Dragons Rhondorf over the hump as they won the quarter 17-16 and led comfortably 67-52 after 30 minutes. Arthur-Williams who came in the game averaging only 3,0 points got going making a trey while young German Dusan Ilic finally got his first field goal of the game after going 0/6 in the first half, but Leitershofen led 53-38. The Dragons Rhondorf then had their best offensive phase of the second half going on a rapid 12-5 run to get under 10 points again trailing 58-50. In the run, they found some cracks in the Leitershofen defense getting another trey from Reinhart, 3 points from German Carlo Schmidt and 4 points from giant Daniel Mayr who was put into better spots by his teammates. It looked like the Dragons Rhondorf might now have that momentum and make a new turn in the game, but then came the major dagger in the heart of the Dragons as BG Hessing Leitershofen closed out the third quarter with a 9-2 run led by two back to back three pointers by Arthur-Williams. Bacoul also made a floater as his experience was simply too much for the Dragons on this night. His facilitation skills as well as Jannik Westermeiers defense gave the Dragons Rhondorf fits. The Leitershofen defense didn´t allow any open three´s or penetration by the Dragons. “We knew that they would come out fighting. We did a good job limiting turnovers and got big shots from Bacoul and Anderson”, stated Bobby Arthur-Williams. “We couldn´t get stops and gave up way too many easy things. They kept punching back when we scored. When we had momentum, we would give it up”, said Daniel Mayr. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 44% from the field and 36% from the parking lot and had 28 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 29% from the field and 19% from the parking lot and had 45 rebounds and 14 turnovers.

Malik Idbihi at the FT line

In the fourth quarter BG Hessing Leitershofen had no drop down in their game, but finished the game strong never leading by less than 10 points. BG Hessing Leitershofen continued to play exceptional defense and when the Dragons scored it was more on isolation as there was little team play to be seen. Reinhart and Onyejiaka scored with drives in traffic while the guests countered with three´s Williams and Bacoul and led 73-59. The Dragons Rhondorf continued to get good production from Onyejiaka and Willoughby, but couldn´t make ground on the guests as they always had an answer. German Connor Anderson had his break out game in the Pro B with 11 points and scored 7 points in the last 6 minutes, but also left an impact on the defensive end with a steal and block. Anderson scored the last two buckets of the game closing out the win for BG Hessing Leitershofen. “Even when we didn´t hit shots, we couldn´t find any solutions against their defense. We weren´t bale to get them tired after Gustrau and Geissler were out”, added Daniel Mayr. “We switched everything and were flying around. Our defense was the big difference in the game”, stressed Bobby Arthur-Williams. BG Hessing Leitershofen had 6 guys score in double figures led by Bobby Arthur Williams. Leon Geissler and Joanic Bacoul had 13 points a piece while the Dragons Rhondorf were led by Kenan Reinhart with 17 points and Justin Onyejiaka had 15 points. BG Hessing Leitershofen shot 42% from the field and 34% from outside and had 36 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Dragons Rhondorf shot 31% from the field and 17% from outside and had 55 rebounds and 19 turnovers.

A Pretty Drawing From Melia And A Victory Was A Perfect Sunday For Chase Forte Johnson(EPG Baskets Koblenz)

The scenario in the EPG arena last night looked like it was 7 days ago after the first win of the season against Bayreuth. The boys of head coach Stephan Dohrn had done it again this time beating the Artland Dragons 92-80 and thus registering their best start in their 4 year Pro A history moving to 2-1. In the first three seasons the club had always started 1-2. But what made this second win all so more impressive was how they did it. The team kept their mentality very focused after losing a tough game on the road on Friday and they also were able to play successfully without starting point guard Tyren Moore who had injured himself in Nurnberg 48 hours earlier. After the buzzer sounded, the typical post game ritual was alive in the arena, but like a week ago everyone affiliated with the EPG Baskets were so thrilled and the mood was just golden. With so many happy faces many could have thought it was a very special occasion, but it was only the third game of the season. But despite that having such a positive vibe again was so refreshing after so many heartache loses in their living room the last years. One guy who was really happy was rookie Chase Johnson. He took a seat next to me for a post game interview and was just taking in the atmosphere. But there was something else that had really tickled his heart and that was a pretty drawing from a little girl named Melia. She drew a pretty portrait of him without the dreads. “I got this wonderful drawing after the game from a little girl. She drew it for me. I´m beyond happy. I have a son myself who is 7 months old, but to get a gift like this from a young fan is so nice. I will frame it”, stressed Chase Forte (193-G-2001, college: Boston Coll.). I found out later that night that Melia was the daughter of EPG Baskets ultra fan Pat Montana who is always heating up the arena with his support.

When I got to the arena 2 hours before the game, all was still good. I get nervous sometimes when I see players not in uniform while warming up. I saw Buzz Anthony in sweats, I first thought that he wouldn´t play, but when I asked him if he would play or not, he just smiled and said that he was just warming up in sweats. However but when I saw Tyren Moore sitting on the bench not in uniform during warm ups, I got a feeling that he wouldn´t play. Koblenz head coach Stephan Dohrn then confirmed to me shortly before the pre game interview for Sport TV Europe that he would be a scratch. What a blow for the club as well for him. He is an overseas rookie who got injured in Nurnberg on Friday and then had his birthday on Saturday where he turned 25 years old. It is tough tough times for him, but something he can deal with. “Obviously this situation is tough for Tyren, but he is a tough kid. He has a strong mentality and I´m sure he will get through it. I wish him a speedy recovery”, stated Chase Forte. It is never easy for a team to perform when a vital player is injured, but the EPG Baskets Koblenz supplied that next man up mentality and really came away with an incredible display of basketball. “This was really high level and attractive basketball that we saw from the EPG Baskets”, stated sport director Thomas Klein. Despite a weak second quarter, the team always stuck together and played a potent second half never allowing the Artland Dragons to come back and get over the hump. “This win felt really good. We had the right mind set coming into a new game. We wanted to take that energy from our comeback attempt in Nurnberg and take it into the next game. I´m really proud of the guys. That second quarter was the story of our season. There is always a weak quarter for us. We adjusted well after the break and put different match ups on Jonathan Klussmann and it worked. Mason Kraus was great off the bench, and Jayden Williams knocked down shots. We cleaned up some stuff and won by 12 at home. It was a complete team effort. After Klussmann got hot, we decided to contain everyone else. We knew that Klussman couldn´t beat us by himself”, stressed Chase Forte.

When looking at the team stats, the EPG Baskets Koblenz did a great job shooting 44% from the 2 point area and 39% from the parking lot while winning the rebound duel 32-29 and offensive rebounds 10-6 and only coughed up the ball 8 times. The team was led by Jayden “the Microwave” Williams with 26 points on 5/5 shooting and 3 other guys scored in double figures. Mason Kraus had his Pro A break through with 13 points and 4 dimes while American rookie Camaron Tongue continued to show his inside out and consistent game adding a 12/8/1/3/1 game. In the first 3 games Tongue is averaging 16/4/1/1 while shooting 38% from outside. “Mason Kraus has been so valuable for us at both ends. He hit big shots, made free throws, getting steals and deflections. He does simply everything. I´m so proud of him while Camaron Tongue has been amazing. He is a rim protector that gets stops. We know that we can throw up the ball to him into the post anytime. That puts less pressure on us and we let him go to work. He is very impactful at both ends”, warned Chase Forte. For overseas rookie Chase Forte, he has come to terms well with Euro Ball as the toughest thing really are the rules. He is a mix of Jrue Holiday and Derrick White and is the anchor on defense something he had last season at Boston College (NCAA). “My role is to get stops, make the right plays and simply do everything needed to win. I want to win a Pro A title”, stressed Chase Johnson. Currently through 3 games he is averaging 10,7ppg, 3,3rpg, 5,3apg and 1,7spg and knows where he still needs to improve on. “I want to get better off ball. I think I have been well on the rotations and pressuring guards. I watched a lot of film on Buzz Anthony and knew what was coming”, smiled Chase Johnson. He has made some real dream passes in his new Koblenz living room and none was better than his perfect timed Bounce pass in the Bayreuth game that looked like a copy of a Luca Doncic pass. “I´m an underrated passer. I think coach Stephan had no idea how good of a playmaker I can be. He only realized later that I can pass the ball. I watch a lot of Luca Donic, Chris Paul and John Wall”, said Chase Forte. Not only on the court is Chase ´Forte having fun, but also off the court. He loves the beauty of Koblenz and the German corner and loves the German chocolate, Doner and typical hog dog called Brat Wurst. But what is most impressive besides his game is his zeal of learning German. “I have Duo Lingo on my phone. I´m learning phrases. I can order food. Ich mochte ein Schinken und Salami Pizza bitte”, stated ´Chase Forte. It will be interesting to see how his game and German continues to improve this season. He has the right focus and enthusiasm to reach great heights this season.

Naz Bohannon(Artland Dragons) Will Do Anything To Win And Wants To Be The Best Me That He Can Be This Season

Pic credit: Alix Sophie

Naz Bohannon (198-F-1999, college: Clemson) is a 27 year old 198cm forward playing his fifth professional season in Germany and first with the Artland Dragons. Last season he played with Science City Jena averaging 5.2ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.6% He played the last 2 seasons with Phoenix Hagen (Germany-ProA) averaging 12.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 60.8% and 13.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 60.9%. He played his rookie season overseas with at Rasta Vechta (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP-1 (73.4%), 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 55.2%. He began his basketball career with Lorain, OH / Lorrain High School and left as the all-time leading scorer with 1,385 career points with 872 career rebounds and guided the team to a three-year mark of 69-8. He then played at Youngstown State University (NCAA) from 2017-2021 and in his last year averaged16.5ppg, 8.2rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 59.8%. He played an extra season at Clemson University (NCAA) averaging 5.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 68.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over BG Goettingen.

Congrats on the massive 81-69 win over BG Goettingen. What a statement after the tough 91-87 loss to Giessen. How good does this win feel? The first of the season?

It was a great feeling. We have abunch of young guys so any win is exciting. We have been together only 7-8 weeks and I came late to the team. This win helped us continue to build momentum and consistency.

Zach Jackson had a big game in the loss to the RheinStars, but didn´t play tonight. How fortunate was that he didn´t play or would the Artland defense had stopped him as well?

We tend to focus on ourselves. That is the best that we can do. We had no clue that he wouldn´t play and we prepared thinking that he would play. We focus on what we can control. That is the best way to win.

Artland had the fast 7-2 lead thanks to a basket by Buzz Anthony and 2 assists. How vital is his leader ship and play for the Dragons success?

I played against him in Pro A years ago. He has a household name in the league. He is the heart beat of the Dragons. We connect well as a team with him and have learned what he needs and we help him. He is a leader and the heart on the floor.

Artland had the big 20-7 lead, but after 10 minutes led only 23-20 allowing a 13-3 run in the last minutes. What was key for BG Goettingen getting back into the game?

I think that phase was just a part of having growing pains with a young team early in a new season. We were trying to find our consistency. We also got away from certain things on offense and allowed them back in the game. We need to learn to value every possession so we don’t sway in a direction that will allow the opponent come back.

In the second quarter the Artland Dragons kept the pressure on keeping the sound lead as German Ralph Hounnou had a trey and 2 assists. What have you appreciated most about his game?

I love Ralph. He is a real sponge that is always eager to learn. He loves the game so much that he wants to keep growing as a player. He has so much potential and he knows what he has to do so he can become exceptional.

The Artland Dragons had the comfortable 45-34 advantage at the break. After allowing 91 points against Giessen, where did you want to make the most strides on the defensive end?

I think that we focused on what we want our team identity to be which is being a defensive team. We did a good job getting defensive rebounds and getting in the gaps. We did the small things really well and defended well as a team. We take pride on defense.

In the third quarter the Artland Dragons continued to manage the lead well, but lost a little control in the last minutes to lead only 63-57. Did the team get a little sloppy on defense?

We got out of the things we usually do. We slowed down the offense and didn´t let them get comfortable. The flagrant was a big swing in the game.

In the fourth quarter the Artland Dragons heightened their defense allowing only 12 points. What was the biggest strength on defense during the 40 minutes?

Our energy and effort was our biggest strength. These are two things that you can´t teach. Elijah Ndi was huge for us. He set the tone on defense and his energy was infectious.

Domonic Dolic and Grant Teichmann were kept combined to 3 points in 24 minutes. How hungry are you guys to break out again in Koblenz?

I think that we have a team where any guy can step up on any night. When the ball is popping and they start to see it go in, then they will start knocking down more shots. We are a dangerous offensive team and the ball will find them.

The Artland Dragons next battle 1-1 team EPG Baskets Koblenz. What has been your impression of them?

It is hard to pinpoint exactly what type of team they are so early in the season. They have a lot of young guys that have found their way early. Key for us will be to break up their rhythm and make them feel uncomfortable. Every team is dangerous in the Pro A. You can´t underestimate anyone. The young uys will feel like they have something to prove after the loss against Nurnberg.

They are an explosive scoring team that likes to play physical. Can the Dragons have another impressive defensive performance against them?

It will a real battle. They lost a tough game. Some guys may feel like they beat themselves. Our identity is our defense. We can control that. We will be fine. I like our team. I think that with our energy and enthusiasm, we can defend anyone.

Last season you averaged 5.2ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.6% with Jena. The season ended well staying in the league, but your minutes were 10 less than the year before. How did you summarize your season?

Key last season for me was growth as a human being. There were things going on in Jena last season that the public didn´t see. Despite the difficulties, I chose to stand tall and keep pushing forward. We had a great group of guys and banned together. If you focus to much on stats then you may lose yourself. I never complained, but fought through adversary. I was really fortunate to paly in the BBL and my path will work. I feel like I played well in the minutes I got last season.

What are your expectations for your game this season? Your back in the Pro A with a talented team?

I´m here to help in any way. I think that there is always room for improvement. I want to show in games this season which I have worked hard to improve. I achieved a lot in the Pro A stat wise and with teams. I want to build that again now with the Dragons. I want to be the best me that I can be.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Jamal Fuller?

I love his game. But I don´t take many guys over myself. When we play, it will be a fun game.

Thanks Naz for the chat.

Dominik Dolic Wants To Be An Even Better Organizer This Season And Believes That The Artland Dragons Identity Will Be Defense

Pic Credit: Alix Sophie

Dominik Dolic (191-SG-2006) is a 19 year old 190cm guard from Croatia playing his second season with the Artland Dragons. Last season with Artland he averaged 5.7ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 57.6%.In the 2024-2025 season he played with the FC Bayern Munich Pro B team averaging 11,6ppg, 2,5rpg and 3,4apg and in the NBBL averaged 16,8ppg, 3,8rpg, 4,8apg and 2,2spg and won the NBBL title. In 2023-2024 he played with FC Bayern Muenchen U19 team (Germany-NBBL) averaging 14.9ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 77.5%, and with FC Bayern Muenchen 2nd Team (Germany-ProB) averaged 6.6ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 22.6%, FT: 64.0%. In the 2022-2023 season he played 9 Pro B games averaging 2,2ppg and with the NBBL team averaged 6.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT-3 (48.6%), FT: 84.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 81-69 win over BG Goettingen.

Congrats on the massive 81-69 win over BG Goettingen. What a statement after the tough 91-87 loss to Giessen. How good does this win feel? The first of the season?

It was great to get the first win of the season. We had lost a few games to Pro A teams in preseason. This win put us over the hump.

Zach Jackson had a big game in the loss to the RheinStars, but didn´t play tonight. How fortunate was that he didn´t play or would the Artland defense had stopped him as well?

We were ready for him. That he didn´t play surprised us, but with or without him, we were super confident and prepared.

Artland had the fast 7-2 lead thanks to a basket by Buzz Anthony and 2 assists. How vital is his leader ship and play for the Dragons success?

Buzz is really important for our success. He is really good at giving speeches and keeping us together. He also has the ability to give pretty passes.

Artland had the big 20-7 lead, but after 10 minutes led only 23-20 allowing a 13-3 run in the last minutes. What was key for BG Goettingen getting back into the game?

We had some mistakes on defense and didn´t hit shots. But we still stuck together and kept going.

In the second quarter the Artland Dragons kept the pressure on keeping the sound lead as German Ralph Hounnou had a trey and 2 assists. What have you appreciated most about his game?

Ralph is our energizer. He has the ability to hit shots consistently. He is a really good teammate.

The Artland Dragons had the comfortable 45-34 advantage at the break. After allowing 91 points against Giessen, where did you want to make the most strides on the defensive end?

We did a good job sticking to our defensive principles. We were better with effort and communication.

In the third quarter the Artland Dragons continued to manage the lead well, but lost a little control in the last minutes to lead only 63-57. Did the team get a little sloppy on defense?

We had ups and downs in this quarter. But we never gave up and saved our best for last.

In the fourth quarter the Artland Dragons heightened their defense allowing only 12 points. What was the biggest strength on defense during the 40 minutes?

We all defended together. There was no one man show. Just real good team defense.

Naz Bohannon also came late to the team and had a solid 13/8/3 game. Is he the glue guy?

Yes he is. He has much Pro A experience. His biggest strength is when he has the ball. He is most dangerous then. He is everywhere on the court.

The Artland Dragons next battle 1-1 team EPG Baskets Koblenz. What has been your impression of them?

We played them in Koblenz in preseason. They have found themselves well, but there is nothing we should be afraid of. If we play our game then we will have a good chance to win.

They are an explosive scoring team that likes to play physical. Can the Dragons have another impressive defensive performance against them?

I think we are capable of showing another strong defensive performance like against BG Goettingen. Defense has to do with will. We are all on the same page. I think that everyone is ready to play defense every day and we are ready to have it as our identity.

You and Grant Teichmann were kept combined to 3 points in 24 minutes. How hungry are you guys to break out again in Koblenz?

We are hungry each game. I feel like we impacted the game in other ways against BG Goettingen.

Last season you averaged 5.7ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 57.6%. Do you have the same role as last season?

My role is bigger than last season. I have more responsibility at both ends.

What are your expectations for your game this season?

I want to be a better glue guy for team. I want to be a better defender this season and organize better for my teammates.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Grant Teichmann?

I do.

Thanks Dominik for the chat.

Dmonte Brown Wants That Next Pro B Chip With Fellbach After Leading Culture City Weimar To The Regionalliga Chip Last Season

Pic Credit: Fellbach Flashers

It was the season opener for Pro B team Fellbach Flashers against Leitershofen and after 30 minutes, the home team had the comfortable 68-50 advantage. Sometimes clubs lose focus with a big lead and get in danger of losing control, but on this day, the Flashers made a big statement in the Pro B that they are a team that every team has to be aware of. After 40 minutes Fellbach had dismantled Leitershofen 82-64vwho had been a mainstay in the Pro B playoffs the last years and shown how together their team was after one game. With many new pieces like scorer Jonathan Zeisberger, defensive stopper Dennis Diala and American D’Monte Brown (193-G-2000, college: Langston), the team showed just how lethal they could be against another top team like Leitershofen. “We set the tone form the start and stuck together. Coach Kris Borisov told us before the game to punch them in the mouth and show our fans that we are different. We were so energized and communicated so well on defense. We showed that we wanted to win”, stressed D’Monte Brown. The team never slowed down on defense and only allowed 24 points on the defensive end in the second half. “We pressed the whole game and never let them breathe. We rebounded well and stopped their drive. Our biggest strength was our aggressiveness”, warned D’Monte Brown. Does this team have the possibility to be a good defensive team or a great defensive team? “It´s too early to say, but I think sky is the limit for us. We still have a lot to work on, but if we continue to ply like this, then we can be one of the best defensive teams”, added D’Monte Brown. The American averaged 20 + points in the Regionalliga the last two seasons and exploded for 22 points in his Pro B debut displaying no adjustment time. Is reaching the top 10 scoring list of the Pro B a weekly goal for him? “I know what I bring to the table. I know that I can score. The most important thing for me is to make my teammates better and do whatever is needed to help the team win. I can´t let my teammates down”, warned D’Monte Brown.

There are always teams that find a groove early in preseason that then transform well into the regular season. Pro A team EPG Baskets Koblenz demonstrated that in their first game against Bayreuth and Fellbach did the same against Leitershofen. “We are a team that plays aggressive defense and can score at a high level. We have many scorers. The whole starting 5 can score in double figures. We have so many guys that can put up good numbers. It will be hard to guard us”, warned D’Monte Brown. One player who could be the team´s main scorer is German Jonathan Zeisberger who dominated the Pro B last season scoring 30 points or more 8 times with Oberaching. He has Pro A experience, but opted for Pro B again. “He is a great player. He is young and still learning. He has no difficulty getting to the rim. He is the leagues best driver. He is a good defender and showed he can move the ball dishing out 9 assists in first game. He is a great teammate”, stated D’Monte Brown. Another valuable player is Dennis Diala who is his roommate and has developed into a defensive stopper the last years. However his offensive game is also gotten a lot better. “He may be second best player on team. He brings a lot to the table. He can score at a high level and also hit big three´s. He is a 3 level scorer and can defend 2-5. He is another guy that I feel isn´t respected in this league”, stressed D’Monte Brown. Another interesting player Daniel Zacek who has played well the last years at the Pro B level. Is he more than just a 3 and D player? “Yes he is. He is a great defender at the 2, but can also guard the 3. He will help us be able to impact the game”, commented D’Monte Brown. The team also picked up 2 more great players with Maryland native Jason Edokpayi who may be a rookie overseas, but has vital experience having played for NCAA school Fairfield and NCAA 2 schools New Haven and Bridgeport and 213cm big Best Otakpo who has Pro A experience and last season made his Pro B break through with the Dresden Titans averaging 8.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 62.9%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.2%. “Jason can defend the 3. I think he is a Pro B sleeper, but he also will make an impact. He is athletic, can block shots and dunk. He is still finding himself and I think he also could have a great season. I see Best being the best 7 footer in the pro B south. He can block shots, defend the 4/5 and catch any lob”, warned D’Monte Brown.

The scoring ace who believes that the Philadelphia 76ers have so many great pieces with Lebron James and others that they could win it all this season remembers Frank Mason being his toughest cover in college had a great first game with 22 points and saw differences to the Regionalliga and Pro B. “The Pro B is faster and more physical. The Pro B also has more talent and deeper rosters. Guys care more to win in pro B whereas in the Regionalliga, guys are more concerned with sticking”, said D’Monte Brown. He has paid his dues his whole basketball life playing JUCO, NAIA and Regionalliga. Having that weight of a chip on his shoulder never gets lighter, but heavier. “It keeps growing. I feel like I have to keep proving myself. I have won titles and wanting to win more never changes. I just want to win it all. Coach Kris Borisov brought me to Fellbach to win. I want to prove the world that I can lead this team to the title”, warned D’Monte Brown. Will it be Ok for him not to be that explosive scorer like the last years? “You need to make sacrifices and fit in. We are so balanced that I don´t need to score 26 points. If I feel like I need to step up, I will, but we are so balanced. I´m not too worried that I need to score. I have less pressure to score this season. I have more help now. That will help us get to where we want to be”, stressed D’Monte Brown. He shot 40% last season from the parking lot and wants to continue that trend this season. “I´m always working on my game not only my three. I take 200 mid range shots each day. I need to always be ready and I working on keeping my shot consistent and shooting at a high level. I have to make the opponents defense use strategies to stop me”, added D’Monte Brown. He worked on getting bigger last summer as he wants to make the next step in the Pro B this season. “My biggest weakness is guarding bigger guards. I can guard 1-3, but also want to guard 1-4. I have to keep lifting weights to stay strong and healthy”, warned D’Monte Brown. After living is the former Eastern Germany in Aschersleben and Jena, he has already adapted well to Fellbach and has felt the early love already from the fans. “The fans are amazing and are already ready for our next game. It is supposed to be sold out”, said D’Monte Brown. It will be interesting to see if Fellbach can make a real run this season. If they do, then D’Monte Brown could become immortal in the hearts of the fans of the Fellbach Flashers.

Mason Kraus Wins Best Friend Duel Against Simon Hildebrandt In Their Overseas Debut’s In Koblenz Germany

The season opener of the EPG Baskets Koblenz against Medikamente Per Click Bayreuth had just ended and all you saw in the CGM arena was people with happy faces. The last three years had produced no playoff appearances and the hunger for a successful season continued to be in the heads of everyone. After winning four of five pre season games against Pro A games, the anticipation was massive for the opener in the pretty living room in Koblenz. The club led by head coach Stephan Dohrn didn´t disappoint as they marched out to a shoot out 109-90 victory over Medikamente Per Click Bayreuth. Granted the guests were missing 4 main players, but the EPG Baskets showed a consistent and overpowering offensive performance that will give many Pro A teams fits this season. There were a few side stories concerning the game including the return of Joshua Bonga who comes from the region and he didn´t disappoint as he had a Pro A career high 30 points. The other theme was a feel good story concerning Mason Kraus (190-G, college: Manitoba) and Simon Hildebrandt. They had been teammates for two years in Canada at Manitoba University (U Sports) and then after Hildebrandt left for High Point (NCAA) and Washington State University (NCAA), their paths crossed again this past summer as they suited up again together for the Winnipeg Sea Bears winning the CEBL title. Now 5 weeks later, they were back again in Koblenz as opponents. After the 40 minute battle, both were smiling even if Hildebrand had lost. After the game, they had some catching up to do. “We said a few words before the game, but said let´s talk after the game. It was great seeing him again. I missed his wedding, because I had to come to Koblenz. This was my first time I saw him since he got married. He is one of my best friends. We are friends for life”, stressed Mason Kraus who was roommates with him at Manitoba and they were always together eating all meals together. In Germany Mason Kraus has found some tasty things as he likes to eat Doner, Wiener Schnitzel and banana flavor deserts

It was absolutely no surprise that Mason Kraus was all smiles after the buzzer sounded. The EPG Baskets Koblenz played an all around good game and showed that they can play well for 40 minutes and close out the win without problems. Last season there were too many times where the club panicked and lost control of the game and lost. Yesterday they set an early tone that the depth of the team will be vital for success this season. “We scored 100 points which was nice. We did a good job sharing the ball and really concentrated on the We and not the I. We showed that at times that our defense can be amazing. We showed our identity tonight”, stated Mason Kraus. The shooting percentages of the EPG Baskets Koblenz were high and the way that they should be when you have an elite scoring team. They shot 75% from the two point area, 59% from the field and 36% from outside. “Our assists were really high. We did a good job also not getting away from the game plan, but sticking to it. We never stopped attacking and kicking to the shooters. We also did a super job forcing many turnovers”, commented Mason Kraus. For a first game the club also did a good job on the boards securing 31 rebounds and 11 offensive rebounds. Of course there were also some negative things like the defense which allowed 90 points. Obviously that is something the club will work on diligently this week in practice in preparation for the Artland Dragons next weekend. “We had a third quarter lapse. We showed though that as a whole we stayed locked in. Those are signs of a great team. Mental lapses happen and we have to learn to finish the game well on defense and play our style”, warned Mason Kraus. Koblenz also dominated the points in the paint 54-32 and had 15 second chance points. Surprisingly there were no fast break points which is very difficult to believe.

So how did the two buddies fare head to head on the court? Mason Kraus finished with 6 points, 1 rebounds and 2 assists in 16,01 minutes. Even if it wasn´t the brilliant performance, it was one of those nights that happen when your on a team that has 6-7 guys that can score in double figures per game. “I only took 2 shots. I could have been more aggressive. It just wasn´t my night to be the main scorer. I sacrificed my shots for the team. That is how good we are as a team. I took myself out of the picture and played for the team. I´m just glad we won”, said Mason Kraus. One also can´t forget that he missed the first weeks of pre season and was at a disadvantage. However he continues to make steps with his adaption to the Euro style. “Having to adapt has been seamless. Everyone in the organization have been so helpful. Adapting to the physicality is a challenge, but I´m a player that likes to play physical. I just have to learn to play physical while adding less fouls”, stated Mason Kraus. The guard who plays like Damian Lillard and once battled NBA player Bennedict Mathurin on the court averaged 33 minutes per game with Manitoba in his last two seasons now has to adapt coming from the bench. Is this something that he can get used to and is that starting job important for him? “I would love to start and it would be naïve if I didn´t want to. I hope there will be times when I can start, but for me most important is that I play and can contribute”, stressed Mason Kraus who loves the hominess of Koblenz and really enjoys the beautiful community of Koblenz. Simon Hildebrandt had a great Pro A debut scoring 15 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 25 minutes and shot 50% from the field. “I knew that he would have a good game. He had opportunities through out the game and late in the game capitalized on them”, said Mason Kraus. He will have to wait until April 3, 2027 for revenge when both teams meet again. ”It was great to see Mason again. He is one of my closest friends and teammates that I have. I have the our next game circled on the calendar”, stressed Simon Hildebrandt. For now Mason Kraus has the bragging rights for 6 months. “I know that our former school Manitoba will have a report on this game on their website. I know our former coach and others watched this game”, stated Mason Kraus. So was there any kind trash talking on the court between the two friends? “Maybe with the others on the team, but for us we respect both sides. It was tame, but I expect it to pick up during the season”, warned Mason Kraus.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz Charachter Stands Out With The We Instead Of Me Focus As The Top 8 Is The Club Goal

Pic Credit: Angel media

The EPG Baskets Koblenz are going into their fourth Pro A season and it is always an amazing experience watching basketball in the CGM arena. It has a nice atmosphere with ambitious fans and it is just a small beautiful arena with perfect lightening. The teams finished 16th twice and last season improved to 14th place. The only thing that has been lacking has been a trip to the promised land in the playoffs. The team has always had solid rosters and last season had one that on paper looked deep enough, but the team chemistry just wasn´t spot on. This season the coaching staff and sport director Thomas Klein have built another interesting roster, but there is a massive difference that this core have that has never been present before with the EPG Baskets. “I´m going with a lot of joy into this season. This is the best roster we have ever had. We have great characters. This season it is the We instead of Me mentality. Last season Calvin Wishart always had the last shot. Sometimes it went well and sometimes it didn´t go well. That won´t happen this season as anyone can take the last shot. We will be really difficult to scout 1-5. That really makes this season exciting”, warned EPG Baskets Koblenz sport director Thomas Klein.

The EPG Baskets were a team that last season preached the playing style of being aggressive at both ends of the court. Will that style continue this season? “We will continue that, but the difference will be that we won´t have slow bigs from last season. We weren´t able to play fast enough last season. This season we want to play faster and with the athleticism that we have, will be hard to match especially with a player like Ferenc Gille who loves to run”, warned Thomas Klein. In it´s first two Pro A seasons the team heightened their game production from 74-77 and last season really demonstrated that they could be a top scoring team as they averaged 85 points per game. They obviously want to build on that this season with added team basketball and having that surprise effect. “Our go to guy will be the team this season. We have 6-7 players that can score in double figures in each game. The efficiency that we have this season, we never had before. We have really good balance this season”, added Thomas Klein. Another added trait for this season is also the added physicality that the team has this season. “Chase Johnson has shown in pre season how well he gets to the rim with physicality. A guy like Mason Kraus also has that ability even if he doesn´t look it. He can do the same”, smiled Thomas Klein. One thing that doesn´t lie are stats and the EPG Baskets defense hasn´t only been bad the last 3 seasons, but gotten worse each season going from 80 to 87 to 90 points allowed each game. Will there finally be a turnaround in this season? “We are dynamic and agile and with Camaron Tongue on the five, we will be able to switch all. Last season it was hard to recover with our bigs off the hedges. That won´t happen this season. I believe with our athleticism and willingness to defend, we will be better on the rotations and help”, warned Thomas Klein.

So how will the roster look like this season. The club did a good job holding on to 4 Germans with Badu Buck (7.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 88.9%), Jonas NIedermanner (6.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 73.7%), Alexander Moeller (6.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 58.9%, FT: 65.1%) and Jannis Sonnefeld (4.8ppg, 3.0rpg). Each player brings his own special qualities, experience and know the system of Stephan Dohrn. The club added 2 really interesting bigs with experienced Ferenc Gille and hungry Camaron Tongue who is in his second pro season after only playing 6 games in Estonia last season. Gille has massive Pro A experience having played with Leverkusen, Nurnberg and Ehingen. He possess things that bigs didn´t have last season with athleticism, good defense and running the floor while Tongue is a modern big man that will enrich the defense and transition game as well. Perhaps the team´s best pick up was the experienced Dragos Diculescu (196-G/F-1999, agency: One Motive Sports) who´s middle name could be versatile. He can do it all and has an immaculate character and will be one of the main leaders on the team. “Dragos will be the connector between 1-5. He reads the game so well”, said Thomas Klein. The team also added 3 American rookies and a Canadian with Mason Kraus who got early pro experience last summer winning the Canadian title with the Winnipeg Sea Bears (CEBL). He had a stellar career at Manitoba University (U Sports) that can score and dish out assists at a high rate. His best season average was his junior year 8.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 5.2apg, SPG-5 (2.6), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 65.5%. “Mason came late to the team. He had some tough games, but played well against Artland. His speed and how he reads the game really stand out”, commented Thomas Klein. American Jaden Williams comes from Dartmouth where he averaged 11.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 41.1%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 84.8% in his senior year and shot 42% one season form outside. “He is athletic and has a stable shot. He will play the position 3. We will see how well he adjusts to the game overseas”, added Thomas Klein. One of the key players from the new ones should be Chase Forte who is also a rookie and gained much experience playing at 5 schools. His last school was Boston College and he had his best season with the University of South Dakota (NCAA) averaging 17.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.1apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 65.2%. “Chase is a brutal player. He will be our anchor on defense. If he can play his offense the way he knows then he will be tough to stop. I see some Cockfield in him, but he needs to play his own game. He is a very vocal player”, stated Thomas Klein. The last new player is Tyren Moore, another rookie who had a great career at Georgia Southern (NCAA) averaging 17.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 86.5% and 16.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 83.0%. This is the school where Calvin Wishart also played. Moore will run the team. “Tyren is so talented. If he had a little more athleticism of Chase Johnson, then he would be in the BBL”, expressed Thomas Klein. The season is a few days away. What teams will be the teams to beat and what is the goal of the EPG Baskets? “I see, Heidelberg, Crialsheim, Giessen, Goettingen and Kirchheim as the teams to beat. Our goal is really simple. We want to reach the Top 8”, warned Thomas Klein.

The Dragons Rhondorf Are Courageous And Will Attack The Playoffs

Pic Credit: Martin Jung

How many times last season did I see a giant man in the Dragon Dome working on his craft as I entered the building. For the very small kids, he may have towered like the jolly green giant who is the famous smiling advertising mascot of the American Green Giant vegetable brand. Of course the man taking jump shot after jump shot wasn´t the jolly green giant, but 218cm center Daniel Mayr (218-C-1995) who played his first easyCredit BBL game 12 years ago with FC Bayern Munich. One thing where he has had misfortune in his career has been injuries and that unfortunate aspect of the game hit him again last season. All in all, he has missed 4 complete seasons due to injury in his 15 year career that saw him play for clubs like Schwelm, Schwenningen, Duesseldorf and Fellbach. At the age of 31, he is ready to battle again this season for the Dragons Rhondorf. Last season, his presence was always there be it at practices or at games on the bench. He was a big motivator and supporter last season and especially for the young players a real mentor type of giant. “Even if he didn´t play much last season, he was always at every practice. He has seen so much in his career. He was always giving you tips. On the court he will help us so much. You have to double him in the post which will always leave one of your shooters open”, stressed Dragons Rhondorf forward Carlo Schmid. Having Mayr back this season gives head coach Max Becker so many more options at both ends of the court. “You have to tip your hat to him. His situation last season wasn´t easy for him, but he was always there and supported us. He is really motivated for this season. Now we can work together on and off the court. He has so much experience and a great skill set. He is so good in the post that he can finish, but also knows when to make the right pass. That is a huge weapon that he has. He can still be a big help on the defensive end. Even if he doesn´t make 3 blocks a game, he can still alter the shot well”, stated Dragons Rhondorf head coach Max Becker.

The last 4 years have been successful seasons as the Dragons Rhondorf reached the playoffs each season and even won the Pro B title in 2024. Last season, the club finished strong first winning to stay in the league and then even slipping into the playoffs, but getting swept by Orange Academy. This season the club has built a really strong roster as they want to keep the success up. “Last season was a real roller coaster season. “I´m really looking forward to this season. We still haven´t been able to practice as a complete unit as little injuries have hindered us. I have noticed early on that the team is extremely hungry and want to work hard. We have an exciting mix this season of young and experience”, said Max Becker. Last season the Dragons Rhondorf played fast and nothing will change with that this season. “We want to outrun teams and play team basketball. We want to get an early advantage on the possession and then punish the opponent”, expressed Max Becker An interesting aspect this season will be the point guard position. The last 3 seasons, one had two experienced point guards with Kelvin Omojola and Jorge Mejias, but this season there won´t be one general point guard. “We will be more flexible at every position. We have more players that can handle the ball and run the pick and roll with Dusan Ilic, Kenan Reinhart and Mychael Paulo. We also have the young Germans Malik Idbihi and Tom Viehofer who can bring the ball up. We see less clear point guard duties, but more the duties on many shoulders”, warned Max Becker. Defense has been a thorn in the side of the Dragons the last two seasons as they allowed on average 88 points. Will there be improvement this season on the defensive end with two potent defenders with Justin Onyejiaka and Mychael Paulo and a giant in Mayr in the middle? “Last season we gave up many points, because we played fast sometimes taking only 8-10 seconds which allowed more possessions for both teams. That can lead to more high scoring. Last season, we might have given up 90 points in a game, but we didn´t always play bad defense. This season we want to be better in our structure having easy principles to follow. I feel like if we can do that, we will have success. Justin can defend at Pro A level and defend 1-4 at the pro B level. Mychael is more an offensive player, but will also help us on defense. He can keep guys in front of him”, warned Max Becker.

The Dragons Rhondorf did a good job keeping a core from last season. Kenan Reinhart is back for season three while trying to make the next step in the BBL. He made a big jump increasing his scoring average from 3 to 13. His leadership and three pointer will help the team while Dusan Ilic is also back. He had a great first Pro B season averaging 8.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 20.5%, FT: 69.0%. He is hungry to make the next step in the Pro B. The team also kept big man Benjamin Sadikovic who averaged 9.7ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 66.3%, FT: 64.6%. Having him and Mayr as that 1-2 punch inside could even become the best in the Pro B. Sadikovic still has much upside and should be able to make the next step as well. 3 and D player Josh Petteno also will play his second season. His 3 and D qualities will be an enrichment for the club. The club also kept young Germans David Boning, Carlo Schmid, Tom Viehoefer and Malik Idbihi. “Our biggest goal with the roster this season was to be deeper than last season. We have 6 double license players and we won´t always have every player available, because of other competitions. We want a young team where guys can continue to develop as well as having continuity. We have more balance this season”, stressed Max Becker. Last season Boning and Schmid made the next, but what other young players can make the next step? “I think that Idbihi and Viehoefer can make the next step. They are hungry to do that in the Pro B. I also feel like our new young player Max Von Saldern can also make that next step. But we also have other NBBL guys who will make pressure from below so it will be competitive”, warned Max Becker.

The Dragons Rhondorf got a lot of quality with Mychael Paulo, Sahmi Willoubhy and Justin Onyejiaka. Ex Juco player Mycahel Paulo is playing his fourth season in Germany. He had an explosive rookie season with the Telekom Baskets Bonn averaging 24,0ppg in the Regionalliga and then averaged 19,0ppg in his second Regionalliga season with BG Hagen. Last season he helped the ETB Miners win the Pro B averaging 12.8ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 75.0%. He has one of those special qualities that not many have. “He can create a shot out of nothing and overall has a really good shot. He can also gives us a little bit of Mejias”, added Max Becker. Sahmi Willoughby won 2 titles at Marietta (NCAA3) and had his first experience in Finland last season exploding in their second league with Team Pajulahti (Finland-1st Division) averaging 22.4ppg, 14.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 72.7% while also showing he can play at the first league level with Lahti Basketball (Finland-Korisliiga) averaging 8.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 80.0%. He plays like Dennis Rodman with a jump shot and has an amazing character. “He plays like an unbelievable animal. His game in unconventional and what makes his game special is that it may not always look pretty, but he is very effective. He is athletic and has a great shot. He doesn´t need to have the ball in his hands for 30 minutes to be effective”, commented Max Becker. The final piece was ex BBL player Justin Onyejiaka. He had an incredible youth career in Vechta, got added experience in Frankfurt, but couldn´t make his BBL breakthrough and gained extra pro A experience the last 2 seasons in Vechta and Cologne. Now he took 1 step back to take possibly 2 steps forward? “Justin is an unbelievable athlete and has a real quick first step. He has BBL athleticism and is a great scorer. He can get to the rim, catch and shoot and makes great decisions. Our fast game fits his game. That is one of the reasons why he came to the Dragons. He wants to shine with us”, smiled Max Becker. With a deep and talented roster like this, one can only have big goals. “We can be courageous. We want to attack the playoffs. We believe in our quality and deep roster”, warned Max Becker. I also feel that the goal has to be the playoffs this season. If injuries don´t plague this team, then I see the Dragons Rhondorf somewhere between 4-8 in the standings.