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Adrian Breitlauch Knows That Recently They Didn´t Play To Their Potential But Now Want To Become The Best Possible Version of The Eisbären Bremerhaven In 2026.

pic credit: Dennis Green

Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 32 year old 193cm guard playing his 8th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP-1 (74.4%), 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.1%. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to eurobasket after the big win over Tuebingen.

Congrats on the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen in overtime. How big was the win after the tough loss against Kirchheim?

It was a very big win for us. We wanted to bounce back and show a positive reaction after our sub par performance in Kirchheim last week. With this win, we are now ready to face the top team of Phoenix Hagen with a bit more of confidence.

Before we get to the game, talk a little about Kirchheim. They are one of the hottest teams in the Pro A at the moment. What made it so difficult to play them?

They are an individually very talented team. But they also manage to play good and aggressive team defense. They are well coached too and deservedly one of the hottest teams in the league right now.

The first quarter was a real back and forth affair. It was dominated by the 2 point shot. How vital was it for Elijah Miller to get going early? He would be an instrumental part of the offensive attack.

Elijah´s performance was very important to us. He got our offense going early by scoring but also with sharing the ball. He is one of our key players for our offensive system.

Bremerhaven went on a big run at the start of the second quarter to lead 34-23. Jake Biss hit 2 back to back three´s. How vital is his efficient play?

We love having Jake on the team. He does many of the little things on offense and defense that you don´t necessarily find on the box score. Yesterday, his two big threes got us going on an important run securing us the lead at halftime.

Tuebingen came back and trailed only 43-37 at the break. Carlos Carter made some big shots in that stretch. He is the heart and soul of the team. Where would the team be without him?

Carlos is our energy guy. Offensively he always finds ways to get to the paint, which is important for us. Defensively he is one of our motors also with his energy. We wouldn´t be where we are right now without having Carlos Carter on our team.

Tuebingen went on a 11-0 run to begin the third quarter and bang they had the 48-45 lead. What did Bremerhaven get away from to allow that furious comeback by the guests?

Basketball is a game of runs. We weren´t ready on the defensive end and allowed Tübingen to get going. But it was important that we stayed together and kept going. Our body language still stayed positive in that time, which was big key in winning the game.

Hendrik Warner made a bucket late in the third quarter but Tuebingen still led 59-57 after 30 minutes. How tough was it watching the mis fortune of Warner on this day? It was one of those days where nothing fell for him except for that?

I was happy for him seeing him score that and one during a big moment in the game. But Hendrik Warner´s game is not only measured by his offensive output. His consistent efforts on defense put us in a position to win the game. He played a big part in our win yesterday.

The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as lead changes occurred instantly. Tuebingen could of won the game on the last shot, but Felix Edwardsson missed. How do you remember that last shot?

We had a missed communication on defense that led to him having that open shot. But our weakside rotation covered up and allowed to make that shot a bit tougher. But honestly speaking, we also had some fortune there that he missed that shot and that the game went into overtime.

What did head coach Steve Esterkamp tell the team to do going into the OT?

That is staying between Steven Esterkamp and the team.

Bremerhaven dominated 23-8. What was key for getting the win? The love of spreading the ball was totally there?

Yes, we shared the ball very well. Jemarl Baker made some highlight plays and we managed to get to the free throw line consistently. I think that those were the key factors offensively to win the game.

Did you want it more than they did? Where was this game won? The stats were quite even.

Both teams played their heart out yesterday. It was a back and fourth game that could have ended either way. Big respect to Tübingen for a good performance. In the end, we had the luck on our side and managed to stay calm in overtime.

You had a solid 11/6/1/1 game. How happy were you with your game?

I was happy that I got to support the team. My goal was to be aggressive and lead with body language and effort to put us in a position to win. Those things were more important than the individual statistics.

Bremerhaven had a great start with 8-2 in the season. But then lost 4 of 5 games. Did the team feel a little pressure of starting so well?

This past month was a growth step for us. We didn´t play up to our potential. That´s why yesterdays win was very important to us. Now we focus on becoming the best possible version of Eisbären Bremerhaven in 2026.

It seemed like there were games where nothing worked on offense. Was that more on the team or did opponents scout you better?

Probably a mixture of both. But in the end, we need to focus on us. There we have more potential than what we showed these past weeks.

This season your averaging 5/2/1 stats. Your averaging 3 less minutes than last season. What is your biggest goal with your game this season? Are you giving anything new or extra to the team with your game that you haven´t done in the past?

Personally, I am just trying to do whatever it takes to win basketball games. It is not about the statistics to me. I am just trying to leave my heart out on the court and support the team to put us in a position to win.

Bremerhaven next battle Phoenix Hagen in 2026. What will be key to getting the win?

Our effort, body language and to keep going even if things don´t go our way. If we can bring this, then we are in a position to get an upset win against the top team of Hagen.

Do you have any new year´s resolutions?

Having a great year with the Eisbären Bremerhaven.

Thanks Adrian for the chat.

Dylan Fasoyiro Didn´t Want The Ball But The Win But Got Both Leading BBC Coburg To 83-76 Victory Over TV Langen

After a disastrous start into the season where TV Langen lost 7 of their first 8 games, the club led by head coach Tobias Jahn have finally found on track. The team had serious injury woes to start the season and had guys come in and out and just couldn´t find a rhythm early on. Despite having guys out now, the club has been able to adjust and build chemistry which had led to a 4 game winning streak. The team has especially come together as a unit on the defensive end allowing only 68 points on average in the win streak. They welcomed BBC Coburg who came into the game ranked first in the Pro B south with a 9-3 record. They began the season hot winning 9 of their first 10 games, but came to Langen sporting a 2 game losing streak. TV Langen had to be fully prepared and awake and wanted to continue their winning streak, but a few days before Xmas BBC Coburg stopped TV Langen´s winning streak and began a new winning streak winning 83-76. It was a game at eye level for 36 minutes, but in crunch-time it was Dylan Fasoyiro who took control of the game finding his teammates while getting to the free throw line to secure the win. “We showed tremendous grit tonight. We had a 2 game losing streak and lost our point guard Nico Wenzl who came into the game not totally fit and then hurt his wrist during the game. I had to play point guard. Team defense was our biggest strength. We aren´t the best 1-1 defensive team, but came together as a team. We helped each other out. This was a great team win”, stressed BBC Coburg guard Dylan Fasoyiro. TV Langen stayed with BBC Coburg for the most part of the game, but it was the little things in crunch-time that cost them the game. “We started off slow, but came together and fought our way back into the game. I think that our defense was solid. It was more missed shots and turnovers. We have to be better in the decision making”, stressed TV Langen forward Jacob Washington.

Nico Wenzl at the FT line

The first quarter was a tale of 2 parts as BBC Coburg came out strong, but TV Langen found to their game and had Alexander Lagerman who carried the team and trailed only by 3 points after 10 minutes. BBC Coburg rushed out on a rapid 7-2 lead and soon extended it to 11-4. American 2 way player Darius Dawson was aggressive and scored twice on the drive while ex Erfurt forward Tim Herzog dropped a trey while Canadian Dylan Fasoyiro also connected from the parking lot. TV Langen came out sluggish and seemed to have gotten off the wrong side of the bed. Their 1-1 defense wasn´t on par as they couldn´t match BBC Coburg´s intensity yet. TV Lagen has a special microwave in Alexander Lagerman and he gives the word scoring in bunches a new meaning. He scored 5 unanswered points as TV Langen trailed only 11-9. However BBC Coburg continued to execute easily as Fasoyiro added 3 points and Herzog another trey to lead 17-9. However basketball is always a game of runs and TV Langen punched back with an 8-0 run led by Lagerman with 4 more points while team captain Mr triple double Niklas Pons scored on a lay in and California native Jacob Washington also scored on the drive to dead lock the game at 17-17. Lagerman had contributed 9 points, but TV Langen couldn´t hold the momentum as BBC Coburg led 20-17 after 1 quarter thanks to a runner by German Eric Neuenhoeffer. “I feel like we came out solid as a team. We knew that TV Langen would switch a lot. We took advantage of the mismatches and played team defense”, said Dylan Fasoyiro.

Jacob Washington from outside

In the second quarter BBC Coburg tried to get away from TV Langen early, but the home team stayed strong and battled back leading 41-39 at the break. Lagerman started the second quarter firing away and scored with a trey to tie the game at 20-20. It seemed like BBC Coburg kept big man Finn Doentgens out of game in the first quarter to get TV Langen tired and then in the second quarter inserted the 208cm center and prompt he scored back to back baskets while 3×3 world champion Leon Fertig showed his potent 1-1 skills scored twice to tie the game at 24-24. BBC Coburg then attempted to get away from TV Langen with a 5-0 run as ex Bayreuth guard Nico Wenzl dropped a three pointer while Doentgens scored again always taking advantage of the mismatch as BBC Coburg led 29-24. However TV Langen had no real lulls on their offensive execution as they fired back with a 10-4 run to take their first lead of the game at 34-33. Instrumental in the run was work horse Jacob Washington who once battled Franz Wagner scored 8 points including 2 three´s. German Leon Fertig also added a turn around shot. From now until the break, the game remained at eye level as no team could secure another run. BBC Coburg retrieved the lead again as Fasoyiro took a runner for the 39-36 advantage. Wenzl had left the game, because of a hurt wrist and Fasoyiro suddenly was the point guard. With less than a minute to go, TV Langen still had some extra energy and got a lay in by Lagerman who tied the game at 39-39. Doentgens then coughed up the ball and Washington made a tip in at the buzzer securing the TV Langen 2 point lead at the break. Both teams were shooting over 50% from the 2 point range while TV Langen had the slim 16-15 rebound edge while BBC Coburg had 12 turnovers and TV Langen only 9. “We let them come back. They killed us on the offensive glass. We had a good flow on offense switching a lot and played through Doentgens and got movement on the weak side”, stressed Dylan Fasoyiro.

Finn Doentgens with the lay in

Coburg played their best defensive quarter in the third allowing only 13 points, but couldn´t get away as TV Langen was solid on defense allowing 20 points, but trailed 59-54 after 30 minutes. TV Langen began with a bang as Washington got going scoring 5 unanswered points for the 46-39 lead. However BBC Bayreuth had grit and clenched their teeth together and strung along 3 stops and scored 8 unanswered points to lead 48-46. TV Langen were sloppy on 1-1 defense allowing 2 Fasoyiro buckets and two from South Carolina native Darius Dawson. TV Langen stopped the run with 4 consecutive points with Lagerman free throws and a Washington lay in for the 50-48 lead. However BBC Coburg remained strong and buckled down on defense and their offense strung along a 11-4 run to lead by 5 points after 3 quarters. In the BBC Coburg run, it was Fasoyiro who was a total beast scoring 7 points. There was no stopping him. Dawson also added a pretty hook shot and Doentgens a turn around shot. Leon Fertig will always dazzle you with great shots every game and practice and in this run added a 360 shot. “That shot was normal. We see that from him all the time. We know what he can do”, said Jacob Washington. BBC Coburg shot 63% from the 2 point area and 40% from the parking lot and had 24 rebounds and 13 turnovers while TV Langen shot 64% from the 2 point area and 22% from outside and had 24 rebounds and 11 turnovers. “We knew that we had to step up our team defense. Our help team defense was good. We got stops and limited their second chances”, stated Dylan Fasoyiro. “We missed shots and they made shots. We have to find a way to finish the easy stuff”, added Jacob Washington.

Leon Fertig at the FT line

TV Langen fought back in the fourth quarter to tie the game, but Dylan Fasoyiro gave BBC Coburg the lead again and the team then managed the lead well and then got key free throws down the stretch from Fasoyiro to gain the win. Finn Doentgens began the fourth quarter with a lay in to give BBC Coburg the comfortable 61-54 advantage. However TV Langen stayed mentally strong and had answers on offense as Lagerman remained aggressive and found ways to score on 2 tough drives while Fertig added 4 free throws to tie the game at 62-62. After a thunderous Dawson dunk, Leon Fertig hit another one of his patent off balance shots and made a free throw for the 65-64 TV Langen lead. However that would be TV Langen´s last lead as now it was time for Dylan Fasoyiro to take control as he added 5 points for BBC Bayreuth to lead 69-65. ““I told my team that I didn´t want the ball but the win. We were the number 1 team and all that mattered was the win. The ball found me. I have to credit my team”, commented Dylan Fasoyiro. Austrian guard Nico Hollerl added a trey for insurance as TV Langen trailed 73-66. TV Langen didn´t drop dead as they battled and got a wild bank shot from Lagerman and trey from Washington to trail 77-74. However a technical foul from Washington led to a Fasoyiro free throw and 2 free throws by Dawson for the 80-74 advantage with less than a minute to play. Fertig did add a lay in traffic, but Fasoyiro added 3 free throws to seal the victory. “It was the little things that got us the win. Whether it was cutting or being active on the weak side. We did a good job on the boards. We wanted it more than they did”, warned Dylan Washington. “There is a reason why they´re the number 1 team. They made the plays and right decisions down the stretch”, said Jacob Washington. BBC Coburg was led by Dylan Fasoyiro with 33 points. Darius Dawson and Finn Doentgens added 15 points a piece while TV Langen was led by Alex Lagerman with 26 points while Jacob Washington had 24 points. BBC Coburg shot 57% from the field and 40% from outside and had 35 rebounds and 17 turnovers while TV Langen shot 43% from the field and 21%from outside and had 30 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Mike Mitchell JR(CATL Basketball Lowen) Has Always Had The Luxury To Have Had The Perfect Role Carved Out For Him To Excel Wherever He Has Played  

How famous is the line, if you don’t succeed at first then try try again. I have heard it a lot in my life time. The phrase is simple in that it suggests perseverance in that one should learn from set backs and keep pushing until success comes. It is as easy as that and there have been so many examples over time of athletes that have experienced this. Superstar NBA players lIke Dennis Rodman and Carmelo Anthony weren´t big prospects in high school while MLB superstar Orel Hershiser was cut from teams in high school and college while the GOAT of soccer Lionel Messi was so short as a youth that he was also cut from a junior team while Football Goat Tom Brady was far away from a superstar route as he was only drafted in the sixth round of the NFL draft back in the day. I could list many more examples as these kind of Cinderella stories are told all the time. For overseas rookie Mike Mitchell, this phrase fits perfectly to him. He is a player that didn´t have success with his first stop overseas in England, but since coming to Germany has proven to be a top player in the third league Pro B. He began the season with the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders (United Kingdom SLB) where he only played 4 games averaging 3,5ppg and 2,0apg in 16 minutes per game. Coming overseas and getting adjusted isn´t always easy especially when your all alone and sometimes things just don´t work out. “I had no family or friends there. I had always been used to having them around. I just wasn´t able to crack the rotation. I had good minutes, but I just didn´t do enough. It was a great organization. It just wasn´t the best fit at the time”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr. (188-G-2002, college: Minnesota). He is a player except for that one time in Leicester that has always had the luxury to have had the perfect role carved out for him to excel wherever he has played.

The California native who lists NBA player Terrence Shannon Jr as his toughest opponent that he has faced in his career so far and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander as his GOAT was born in San Jose, California on July 2,2002 and comes from a sporty family as his dad was a stand out football player at Stanford. He got a lot of early basketball experience playing at Archbishop Mitty High School and AAU with West Coast Elite, Oakland Soldiers and Team Arsenal. In high school he was a 2 time MVP of the West Coast Athletic League. He then proceeded to play at Pepperdine University (NCAA) averaging 9.1ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 36.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 69.6%
and 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 5.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 41.7%, FT: 76.2%.He played for head coach Lorenzo Romar who was very influential in his early basketball development. “Coach Lorenzo was simply everything for me. I committed to go to Pepperdine because of him. He is the reason why I have been able to produce in Germany and wherever else I go in life”, stated Mike Mitchell Jr.. He played a total of 61 NCAA games and scored in double figures in 32 games. He had many great games like against USF netting 22 points or having San Diego´s number twice in his second season scoring 20 and 19 points. Unfortunately in losing causes. It wasn´t any games that he remembered most in those 2 years, but rather something else that tickled his heart. “My teammates and practices. Even if it didn´t translate into many wins, I found friends for life”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He then moved on to the University of Minnesota averaging 10.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 39.9%, FT: 80.6% and 8.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 70.6%. Making a move like this was only logical. Who doesn´t want to challenge themselves more in the Big 10? “Every player wants to be able to compete at the highest level and see how well they can do against the top players. I proved I could compete at the highest level”, expressed Mike Mitchell jr. He helped his team reach the NIT Sweet 16 in 2024 where he aided in the big 73-72 win against Butler. “It was a great experience. We were 1 win away from the Big Dance. It hurt a lot not making it. I have great memories there that will forever remain in my heart”, said Mike Mitchell Jr.. He had many great games at Minnesota like beating Michigan twice scoring 18 and 20 points in nail bitter wins. Did he enjoy one win more than other? “The second year when I had 20 points. The fans stormed the court and Michigan was ranked in the top 15. That win put us on the map”, remembered Mike Mitchell Jr.. In his 2 years there, he scored in double figures in 27 games of 59 games. He had the luxury of having had legendary head coach Ben Johnson who prepared him for the overseas grind. “He treated me like a pro and coached me like a pro. He got me ready for the moment”, added Mike Mitchell Jr. who never played teammate Lu Cye Patterson in 1-1, but if he did would take himself.

The explosive scorer who lists Houston Mallette, Elijah Hawkins, Dawson Garcia, Pharrell Payne, and Femi Odukale as his 5 best teammates of all-time has found a new home overseas in Erfurt with the Basketball Lowen. He has needed no time to adjust as simply everything has fit. “All have been very welcoming. It feels like a family. I like my role here. I play a lot”, said Mike Mitchell. It all started well when he arrived as the team won 2 of 3 games, but since have suffered a 5 game losing streak. Is the team missing some depth from the bench as well? “I think the biggest problem have been defense and turnovers. We averaged more than 20 turnovers. We have to clean that up and defense. You can always say that concerning the depth, but we beat 2 of the best teams. I feel like we can beat anyone as well as lose to anyone”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. The Lowen have a great mix out of experience and youth. He has the ultra teammate with veteran Paul Albrecht who gives versatility a new meaning while with Musa Abra has a young German teammate that won a silver at the U-19 World Cup last summer. “I try to soak in as much as possible from Paul´s daily approach to the game and his work ethic. Musa and I mesh well together. I see a lot of my younger self in him. He has a lot of potential. I hope to help him progress further with his game this season”, commented Mike Mitchell Jr.. On the court he has needed no time to adjust as through 8 games he is averaging 20,9ppg, 4,9rpg and 4,0apg and 2,6spg. All he needs is the right role and then he can produce the way he knows how. “I feel like I had a really good summer of training. I progressed a lot last summer. I have had success everywhere I have played and that is because I always had the perfect role carved out for me to excel. I rise to the occasion”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He ripped apart Oberaching for 38 points while netted 28 points against Ludwigsburg and 27 points against Dresden.

So what kind of game does the ex Pepperdine guard who names Lebron James, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore have? He is a 188cm guard that likes to watch a lot of film on CJ McCullum and Shai Gillgeous-Alexander. He focuses on utilizing the mid range game and reading the pick and roll. He fills the stat sheet well and has 3 vital attributes that help him be the absolute best offensive player possible. “My ability to pass, shoot and dribble. I feel like now adays it is rare to have all 3. I feel these are winning traits”, warned Mike Mitchell Jr.. He was a great three point shooter at Pepperdine shooting 40% in both seasons from outside and at Minnesota shot 35%. He understands how he can transform his good shooting in the NCAA to overseas. “I have always been a good outside shooter. I feel like with me it is all about shot selection. I just need to take the right shots”, stressed Mike Mitchell Jr.. Despite putting up first class stats in the Pro B, he is always working on his game as he wants to continue to move up the basketball ladder overseas. At the moment, I´m focusing on most on strength, efficiency and defense”, warned Mike Mitchell. It will be interesting to see how his game continues to develop overseas. At the moment he is taking it day by day with his game and game by game with trying to help his team get out of the hole at the bottom half of the standings. He has won at the NCAA level and has carried the winning traits overseas. Now it´s all about starting to win some games with the Basketball Lowen.

Jeff Garrett Knows That Sticking To Their Identity Was Key In Crunch-Time For The Telekom Baskets Bonn Being Able To Defeat The Skyliners 88-76

Jeff Garrett is a 31 year old 201cm forward playing his 7th professional season and first with the Telekom Baskets Bonn. He played the last 2 seasons with the Niners Chemnitz winning the Fiba Europe Cup. 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 88-76 win over the Skyliners.

Congrats on the big 88-76 win over the Skyliners. How good does the winning streak feel?

Thanks for the wishes. The win feels great. The win against Frankfurt put us in good position in the standings. But despite our win and current play, we aren´t satisfied. We know that we can play better. Any win in the BBL is big and Frankfurt is a good team.

You won the game by 12 points. The last 3 wins were all very tight. Would you classify this win almost like a close game simply because the game was so tight for 30 minutes?

Yes absolutely. It came down to a few costly possessions. The game felt closer than what the score indicates.

Bonn had the tight 21-20 lead after 10 minutes. That first quarter was a classic back and forth. Nobody led by more than 2-3 points. Did you have a feeling the game would continue like that? Sometimes that first real run happens in the second quarter.

I have to be honest. I wasn´t surprised that the game would remain close. We have had so many dog fights this season. The only real blow out was the cup loss to Trier.

Frankfurt let it rain a few three´s to start the second quarter, but the Telekom Baskets Bonn always had an answer and would lead 39-36. What was your impression of Frankfurt? How much different of a team are they then last season where they really struggled?

There is a different aura with Frankfurt this season. They have a winning spirit this season. Last season it was more of a fighting spirit. I think that their success starts with their good guard play.

Frankfurt began with a 8-0 run to begun the third quarter, but Bonn punched right back with a 8-0 run.  No team could get a way from the other as Bonn led 57-55 after 30 minutes. What did coach Marko Stankovic tell the team to do in the fourth quarter?

He had the same message as before the quarters before which was keeping the focus and sense of urgency. A big focus going into the fourth quarter was using our fouls correctly.

Bonn finally went on a run of 10-0 which got you in great position to win the game. What was key in the run besides the three falling to get the comfortable 78-65 advantage?

I feel like we increased our focus and took care of business on defense. We executed well on defense and got stops which led to transition buckets.

In the run Zac Cooks scored 5 points in a row. How key was it getting that kind of production from him? He has had a tough season so far.

It was big for him. I´m happy for him. This season hasn´t been easy for him. He was hurt and still needs to figure things out on the court. His paly against Frankfurt was definitely a confidence booster for the game against Trier. He knows that he still has it.

As a veteran do you talk to him about his season and situation with having a lesser role than in Jena or Austria?

I speak life into every player here. I don´t want to overdo it, but try to help. I tell him to score first at times and pass first. I try to give him confidence and share my experiences. He takes in my advice. He is a great player and person.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn then managed the lead well to the buzzer. What was the team´s biggest strength on the night?

I think that our biggest strength was simply sticking together. We could of easily lost focus and lost our fighting spirit. It was just a matter of who wanted it more. We stuck to our identity which is to play hard and physical.

It was the third game in a row where Frankfurt lost without top player Jaedon LeDee. Does a severe loss like that sometimes effect a team mentally especially in crunch-time?

I think that could of come into play for them. Maybe they thought that they were less without him. I mean he is the best rebounder in the league. With him, there may have been 2-3 extra possessions or a few baskets more. He gives that team so much energy. But then again one can´t forget that injuries are a part of the game. You need to be able to adjust.

What was it like battling a Swiss army knife like William Christmas? Isn´t he the kind of player everyone wants on your team and hates playing against?

Yes absolutely. Will is a great guy. I just laugh when I think of him. He is a true professional and character. He is the first guy in the gym and last to leave. He has so much potential to still become better. He can do it all on the court and brings a little bit of all on the court especially on the defensive end.

How key were guys like Alijah Comihier and Tylan Birts for the win? What do you enjoy most about their games?

They are my guys. Both are great players. I see them being able to play at higher levels in the future. Each guy brings something different to the team.

Your currently averaging 11/4 stats and shooting 34% from outside. How content have you been with your game?

I´m not content at all. I have more to give. I´m still trying fill my way here. It is tough because I´m an unselfish player and sometimes I get out of my comfort zone. I know I am able to put up better numbers, but it has been sort of a roller coaster season for me. I´m trying to figure it out day by day.

What exactly is your role this year with Bonn? Is it similar to what you had in Chemnitz?

It is similar to Chemnitz. But now that I´m in year 7, I have to be constantly vocal. That wasn´t the case in Chemnitz as we had many experienced players. I´m one of the voices in Bonn. I´m aggressive at both ends of the court.

You recently turned 31. What steps with your game do you want to take this season with Bonn?

I want to get to the free throw line more. I got away from that the last years mainly playing in a system where I was more on the perimeter and was spaced out. I need to be in a situation where I can go downhill more and post up.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn now are 6-4. The team has been up and down, but playing good ball as of late having won 3 of the last 4 games. What is vital for the team now to keep this winning streak going?

We can´t get complacent and relax now. We have to understand that we can lose to anyone in the BBL. We have to stick to our identity and hopefully stay healthy.

The next game is against Trier who have been the big surprise of the easyCredit BBL. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to remember the feeling we had when we lost to them in the cup game. We can´t perform like that again. We have to take care of business right away.

What is your favorite thing to do in the Xmas time in Germany?

I like to cling to the Christmas markets. I don´t like when they are overcrowded. I like to be able to move freely with my family. Christmas is my favorite holiday. It is a time to give and be with the family and have peace. I love to spend time in the house and watch Christmas movies with the family.

Do you have any new years resolutions?

I don´t really have one. I just aim to be a better version of myself than the year before. I want to be a better father, husband and player than the year before.

Thanks Jeff for the chat.

The Miles Vs Toru Dean Weekly Basketball Conversation Volume 8

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Toru Dean (183-PG, college: Langston) is a 183cm guard from Miami Florida playing his rookie season overseas with the TSV Bargteheide Bees (Germany-Regionalliga). He began his basketball career with South Miami High School and then played 3 seasons at Barry University (NCAA2) averaging 8.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 65.1% and in his second season averaged 12.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.2%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 46.2%; and in his third season averaged 9.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 39.9%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 62.9%. He then finished at Langston University, OK (NAIA) averaging 10.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 81.0% and 9.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.1apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 69.4%. He teams up every week with germanhoops.com to talk basketball.

Congrats on another crunch-time win this time over Braunschweig 67–63. Bargteheide has now won 3 of their last 4 games in crunch time. How has the team grown in the last 4 games?

Over the last four games we’ve really matured in terms of composure. Earlier in the season, tight moments sometimes sped us up or made us lose focus, but lately we’ve been embracing those situations instead of fearing them. Our communication has improved, our defensive rotations are sharper, and we’ve started trusting each other more in late-game execution. That belief that we can grind out a win, even when things aren’t pretty, has definitely grown.

How good does it feel to win when you only shot 21% from outside and had 21 turnovers as a team?

It feels great because it proves we can still win when everything is not going our way. Shooting that poorly from three and turning the ball over that much—normally that’s a recipe for a long night. But we stayed locked in defensively and kept fighting. Winning a game like that shows our toughness, and it’s the kind of win that builds character going forward.

Talk about the 40 minutes against Braunschweig. Was it tight throughout, or were there stretches where either team pulled ahead?

It was mostly tight throughout. Both teams had small runs here and there, but nothing that blew the game open. Every time one side tried to create separation, the other answered right back. It felt like a chess match—physical, defensive, and all about who could maintain focus the longest. That’s why the game came down to crunch time.

Talk about the crunch-time period. What was key in the last minute for getting the win?

Discipline and execution. In the last minute we finally settled down, got the stops we needed, and made sure we got a good look offensively instead of rushing things. Defensively we communicated well on switches, and offensively we trusted the spacing and hit the free throws and shots that mattered. It wasn’t perfect, but it was poised.

You had another great scoring game with 32 points but 6 turnovers. How annoying were those 6 turnovers? There is always room to improve every week.

Yeah, the 6 turnovers definitely bother me. As a primary ball handler and someone who has the ball a lot, I know I have to be sharper. Some of them were forced plays, some were just careless. The scoring is nice, but the turnovers stick with me more because I know they could’ve cost us in a close game. So it’s something I’ll keep working on, staying under control, reading the defense, and valuing every possession.

Your three-pointer this season is still a work in progress. Are you mixing anything up with your shooting to improve besides just getting up reps?

Besides reps, I’m focusing a lot on consistency, same release, same footwork, same balance every time. I’ve also been working more on game-speed shots, not just stationary reps. Another thing is watching film to see if my shot selection is helping or hurting my rhythm. And I’m spending time on mental routines: breathing, resetting, and staying confident even after misses. It’s a process, but I feel it coming along.

The next game is against 8–4 Stade. This will be another tough battle. What will be key to getting the win?

Stade is disciplined, physical, and plays at a high pace, so the keys are going to be taking care of the ball and controlling the defensive glass. We can’t afford to give them extra possessions. Offensively we need to stay patient, move the ball, and attack their rotations instead of settling. And since it’ll likely be another close game, maintaining our defensive intensity for all 40 minutes will be huge. If we stay united and execute, we’ll give ourselves a real chance to come out with the win.

Thanks Toru for the chat.

Overseas Rookie Robert Brown Is On A Mission Trying To Help The Aschaffenburg Baskets Out Of Their Hole And Raising His Own Game

It was a long wait and grind for Robert Brown (203-F-1998, college: TxWes) between his last NAIA gig in 2023 with Texas Wesleyan University and his current team German Regionalliga team Aschaffenburg Baskets and now he is finally living the dream overseas, but there is only one problem. The team season and his game just isn´t where he wants it to be yet. As a pro player, you always want to have that perfect balance between winning and giving great support with one´s game, but so far he isn´t on par yet. The Aschaffenburg Baskets started 2-6 and have been up and down since game 1 and he is still finding his game overseas.

“We are in a slump as of now but we are sticking together through the season trying to figure out how to have a good season”, said Robert Brown.

The team began slow with a 4 game losing streak. The club that plays in beautiful Bavaria lost a few tight games and then 2 games by more than double figures. Was this just a phase where the team was trying to find themselves?

“Yes that´s correct. We are currently trying to find our identity as a team but every day we are building up good habits”, warned Robert Brown.

But that basketball is a game of runs is seen in every game and it isn´t any different with team seasons. Unless your Science City 2 who are still unbeaten right now and the team to beat in the Regionalliga South-East North. Clubs are always having ups and downs during the season. After starting with a brutal 4 game losing streak, the Aschaffenburg Baskets went on a strong 2 game winning streak beating Breitengussbach and Gotha. The team were doing it better at both ends.

“We were sharing the ball more and taking pride in defense. I believe we know we are good we just got to be consistent with it once we start back winning”, stressed Robert Brown.

However the club couldn´t keep the momentum and currently are on a 2 game losing streak having lost to Veitshochheim and Dresden. The defense allowed 91 points on average. The season is still young, but the team needs to find out ways to clean up their defense.

“I think communication and defensive situational at times but we are figuring it out as we speak”, added Robert Brown.

Brown who sampled valuable experience in the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University and at Iona played for coaching legend Rick Pitino is a rookie overseas and as hungry as can be. His self-confidence in the abilities of his team aren´t wanning either, but going in a very positive direction.

“ I still have hope and believe we can still turn things around it’s a long season and anything can happen”, warned Robert Brown.

In the NCAA at Iona and New Mexico State University, he wasn´t a force with his game simply because he didn´t get a real chance to showcase his real skills. That changed as soon as he got Texas Wesleyan University (NAIA) where he averaged 8.1ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 54.0%, FT: 62.5%. At the moment, he is averaging similar stats to that last NAIA season with 8/5. He knows that he has the abilities to raise his game.

“I’m trying to find more ways to be productive I’m not happy with the way I´m playing right now because I know I can be better and help the team but like I said we have a long season I’m building confidence game by game”, commented Robert Brown.

Every player has to adjust to the grind overseas on and off the court. Every baller has their own way of dealing with it. He knows that everyday is a new day and he is taking it step by step.

“I’ve been adjusting day by day it’s been a battle but I’m learning to keep the same confidence everyday it’s definitely a learning experience and what to expect on playing overseas”, expressed Robert Brown.

He also knows that he still has so much more that his game can offer to the Aschaffenburg Baskets and he is doing all he can in his vast free time to tweak all parts of his game.

“I’m working more so on my midrange confidence in shooting the 3 ball more and just being more active when it comes to the opportunity on scoring being more aggressive on that end”, warned Robert Brown.

Despite the early season woes with the record of the team, he has taken some positives from the season.

My favorite moment of the season so far was our first win of the season and my favorite own basket was the pick and pop from the top of the key I had 2 weekends ago”. Smiled Robert Brown.

He is really geared up for the upcoming game this weekend, because it will be revenge time for him and the Aschaffenburg Baskets. Science City Jena will be in Aschaffenburg for the return game. Jena tore apart the Aschaffenburg Baskets in Jena 107-79 and it was in this game where he battled his toughest opponent so far this season. He was so focused that game that he didn´t even recall whatthe player´s name was, but he definitely remembered him from somewhere else.

“The toughest player that I have faced so far this season was a guard he’s very good. He’s a very good point guard. I played against him in college my last year in college”, said Robert Brown.

I will help Robert Brown by revealing his name as D´Monte Brown. He battled Brown twice in the NAIA as he was with Langston. OK and lost both games. The interesting thing is that there was another current Regionalliga player on that team with Brown with Toru Dean currently tearing upo the league with Bargteheide leading the league in assists and fourth in steals. Wouldn´t it be a delight if Robert Brown could find that balance between a big win at home and monster game against Jena who are still undefeated. A win could be the turning point of the season that the Aschaffenburg Baskets and Brown so dearly need right now.

Benjamin Sadikovic Isn´t Satisfied After Career High 28 Points In Road Win In Neustadt As He Has Big Personal Goals This Season

pic credit: Martin Jung

Benjamin Sadikovic (208-PF-2003) is a 22 year old 208cm power forward that is playing his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. He played the last 2 seasons with the TSV Oberaching Tropics and last season averaged 5.8ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 61.4%, 3PT-3 (50.0%), FT: 65.5%. He began his basketball career with TS Jahn Munich where he played NBBL. In his last season he averaged 11.7ppg, 10.0rpg, Blocks-3 (2.6bpg), FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 68.2%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 95-90 road win in Neustadt.

Congrats on the massive 95-90 win in Neustadt to break the teams 3 game losing streak. How good does this win feel?

It felt extra good, because I didn´t play last week in Rostock, because I was with the easyCredit BBL team. The win tasted really well, because it snapped our 3 game losing streak. It couldn´t be any better especially beating a top team like Neustadt.

It was the first road win of season. How enjoyable was the trip home? On what things did you personally reflect on?

The trip home was really fun. The atmosphere was really good. We listened to a lot of music. I was just happy about the win, but at the same time was also looking forward to the next game against Herten on Sunday.

Did the Dragons Rhondorf go into the game with a must win mentality?

I don´t think that we necessarily had that must win mentality going in. However we wanted to get a better grip on certain defensive habits like our tag ups. We just wanted to get back to playing our game.

The Dragons Rhondorf led quickly 8-2, but Neustadt battled back in the first quarter to trail 23-22. How big of a focus are losing that mentality and letting up a run? It seems to be a problem that the team has this season?

I think those problems arise because we are very young. We have many guys that don´t know about those situations. Because we are missing experience, young players tend to lose their nerves. We did a good job against Neustadt staying calm and not getting influenced by their runs.

Neustadt took control in the second quarter scoring 29 points and leading 51-46. What were the main reasons for them to get the lead back? They seemed to play good team basketball.

Yes they did play good team basketball. We started well and their gym was quiet, but as it got louder, we weren´t able to adjust to the noise as well. Their fans were able to give them extra energy.

Matej Jelocic led Neustadt with 27 points. What is the biggest problem in slowing him up better for 40 minutes?

He has very good qualities. He can make wild three pointers. You can´t let him be open. He doesn´t need much space to get up shots and can get hot. He had a good game against us.

In the third quarter there were ups and downs of both teams and Neustadt led 70-67 after 30 minutes. What was it like defending David Craig. He only played 8 minutes, but made back to back dunks in the third quarter.

He is a monster. He is very big and hard to move. He is slow though, but when he gets the position down low, then he is difficult to stop.

In the fourth quarter was tight, but Neustadt kept the lead. Why couldn´t the Dragons get over the hump? The drive from Neustadt was unstoppable.

We had too much respect for their shooters. We came out too much sometimes which gave more room to drive. We rather gave up the drive then the three pointer

You had big baskets in crunch-time. How big was the tip in to trail 90-85? You seemed to save your absolute best for last?

That tip in definitely gave us some extra energy. It was a hustle basket. We worked hard to get that shot.

The team was down 90-87 with 2,01 to play. The Dragons then closed out the game with a 8-0 run. What did the team do best on the defensive end?

We had been a bit sloppy at time controlling the rebound during the game, but in the end, we really buckled down on the glass. We gave up no more second chances.

What was the team´s best stat? The 35 free throw attempts or 50 team rebounds?

Both stats were huge, but I think that the 50 rebounds were more important than the 35 free throw attempts. If you get more rebounds, it gives the opponent less possessions.

The Dragons Rhondorf next battle Herten at home who are 4-5. What will be key to getting win?

We can´t underestimate them. They are an old team compared to us. That team reminds me a bit of my team Oberaching last season. We have to play our game and play quick and not let them slow it down.

You had 6 of 8 points at end. Was that fourth quarter your best basketball this season?

I think it was one of the best phases for me this season if not the best.

Kenan Reinhart had a tough shooting game. Did you feel that need to step up extra as a scorer?

I didn´t think like I had to score more last night. My shots weren´t forced. I had open looks. I think I had an easier time simply because the opponents defense focuses more on Kenan giving more space.

Juhwan Harris-Dyson is the team´s Swiss army knife, but does the team need more scoring from him to be successful? It seems like when he scores more the team wins.

I think that whenever he has the ball in his hands and gets to the rim, then he is a big advantage for us. Not many can get to the rim like he does. His drive opens up more space for everyone else and makes our lives easier.

You had a great 28/9 game on 10/11 shooting. How much confidence does a game like this give you for the next ones?

The success of my game in Neustadt gives me a lot of extra confidence. I feel like I didn´t start the season so well and didn´t play at the level I should of. I showed what I´m really capable of.

Your averaging 11,6ppg, 7,3rpg, 1,3apg and 1,8bps. You are making a big jump from last season in Oberaching. How content are you so far with your game?

I´m happy with how I´m playing now. But I´m not satisfied now. I need to continue to develop. I can score more and rebound more. I want to end the season averaging double figures in rebounds. I also want to be at the top of the shot blockers.

Your start has been good. Does your goals change more now or are you still going with the same season goals?

If I reach my goals at say the midway point then I will adjust them. However I feel like reaching my goals will take the whole season.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or David Bonning?

I win most times.

Thanks Benjamin for the chat.

Tim Smith Jr(EPG Baskets) Has The Perfect Coach With Stephan Dohrn To Help Him Make The Next Step In The German Pro A

Pic credit: Angel Media

If one had to chose what has stood out most in the dog days of summer with the EPG Baskets, one could choose 2 things, but most likely stick with the unique Dragons Rhondorf connection for the 2025-2026. The other thing was how well the organization brought in new pieces for the club especially at the German spots. Bringing in veteran bigs Marko Bacak and Alexander Moeller was enriching as well as young talented Badu Buck. The signing of 23 year old Serbian Aleksa Kovacevic who has 5 years of easyCredit BBL experience was a masterpiece. One has to simply commend the off season work of head coach Stephan Dohrn and team manager Thomas Klein. But what really stood was the Dragons Rhondorf connection. Head coach Stephan Dohrn had a new challenge after helping the Dragons win the 2024 Pro B title and found enough room in his baggage for his assistant coaches KJ Sherril and Kai Schallenberg to join the ride. However the movement down the Rhein to Koblenz didn´t end there as coach also hauled in 2024 Pro B champion Badu Buck and Tim Smith Jr. (201-F-2000, college: N.Alabama) who played his rookie season last year with the Dragons Rhondorf. Smith Jr had a potent rookie season averaging 17.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 82.5% and was a Eurobasket.com All-German ProB Group South Second Team and has the perfect coach with Stephan Dohrn to help him make the next step in the Pro A.

It is no secret that players overseas are always seeking to move up leagues. It is the survival of the basketball fittest. Especially Americans in the Pro B have demonstrated that since years. A good example was Devon Goodman who broke out with the Dragons Rhondorf just a few years ago and made the next step to Crailsheim or William Christmas who actually made as far as the easyCredit BBL. It was no surprise that Ohio native Smith Jr would want to go this route and absolutely no surprise that he would get gobbled up by a Pro A team. “Making this move is incredibly exciting. Playing in the Pro A is a big step forward in my career and I´m grateful for the opportunity to compete in a higher league”, stressed Tim Smith Jr.. It is obvious that Stephan Dohrn played a massive role in his decision to join the EPG Baskets, but there were also other reasons. I mean it´s no secret that the organization wants to compete in the easyCredit BBL. “The club´s ambition really stood out to me. They have a clear vision to reach the BBL and I want to be part of a team that’s striving for something bigger”, warned Tim Smith Jr..

It is also no secret that Tim Smith Jr. who compares his game to Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum had a lot of success under Stephan Dohrn even if they only worked together for about 5 months before coaches dismissal. Who wouldn´t want to work with a coach again after having a big role in his rookie development. It must have been a no brainer for him to be reunited again with Dohrn. “It played a huge role. I trust in coach Stephan and I know he believes in my development. That trust and Familarity made the decision easy”, commented Tim Smith Jr.. Working with coach Dohrn wasn´t only fruitful for his development, but he made learning fun. “Working with coach was very enjoyable. He brings great energy and creates an environment where players can grow and be challenged”, stated Tim Smith Jr.. It isn´t always easy for Americans come overseas and be an impact right away, but he had no problems adjusting to everything on and off the court and having a great coach like Dohrn made it easier to develop as well. “Coach Dohrn was extremely important in my rookie development. The most important thing that I learned from him was how to stay mentally locked in and approach the game with a professional mindset”, remembered Tim Smith Jr.. Smith Jr has the game and perfect coach, but the question still is can he make the adjustment to the Pro A and can he be an impact player? Smith Jr is a hard worker and is prepared diligently at home for his second pro season. “I´m confident that I can make the adjustment. Last summer I worked on my body, refining my skills and studying film so I´m fully prepared for the next level”, added Tim Smith Jr.. One big adjustment he will have to make, is that his role probably won´t be as big as with the Dragons Rhondorf. His minutes will most likely be down a bit and he will be surrounded by more guys that can explode on any given night in the scoring role. So exactly what type of player will we see in the Pro A? “You´ll see a player who´s locked in, focused and ready to impact the game however I can whether it´s through defense, energy or making smart plays in limited minutes”, warned Tim Smith Jr.. So far he hasn´t disappointed as through 8 games, he is averaging 13,5ppg, 4,4rpg and 1,0apg while shooting a potent 41,0% from outside. After putting up the big goose egg against BG Goettingen in game 1, he has scored in double figures in the last 7 games. He definitely has arrived in the Pro A. It will be interesting to see not only where the journey will go with the always ambitious EPG Baskets, but how well Tim Smith Jr. continues to develop. The formula of Dohrn and Smith Jr is a special one that wants to continue to grow and prosper in the Pro A.

Alex Lagerman(TV Langen) Will Always Sparkle As A Scorer But This Season Wants To Become A Defensive Leader

pic credit: TV Langen

Alexander Lagerman (202-SG-2004) is a 21 year old 202cm shooting guard playing his first season with TV Lagne. Last season he played with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf averaging 9.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 72.1%. In the 2023-2024 season he played with the wiha Panthers Schwenningen (ProB) playing16 games averaging 15.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 61.6%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with the Fraport Skyliners in the JBBL (U-16) and also played 4 Pro B games and in 2022-2023 season in the NBBL averaged :21.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 78.3%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after TV Langen´s first win of the season over Wurzburg.

Congrats Alex on the first win for TV Langen over 89-69. How good does it feel? You had a buzzer beater last season in Wurzburg.

The win feels good. It was a big relief winning our first game. The funny thing is this win was around the same time as my buzzer beater with Rhondorf in Wurzburg last season. I seem to have Wurzburg and Ludwigsburg number. I always paly well against them.

Did you ever have doubts about winning? How tough was the season up to now losing 5 in a row?

The last loses were tough on us as a team. We moved up from the Regionalliga and it was known that the club didn´t have much money. When that is the case, then you have to win other ways bringing more effort. We had doubts up to game, but during the game everything worked. Plus Wurzburg didn´t have their best game.

Wurzburg had the quick 5-0 lead, but you then scored the first TV Langen points. How did you feel? Did you think like you could have a great scoring day?

Yes it felt good. I noticed that getting to the rim was so easy. That was the moment where I believed that I could have a good scoring night.

Wurzburg got a lot of easy buckets inside. The team allows 87 points. Is 1-1 defense something you feel the team will be able to clean up in next weeks?

Our 1-1 defense is our biggest weakness as well as rim protection. We don´t have the length and no big center so we have to defend harder and simply have more discipline. Paint protection and 1-1 defense are big focuses for us as a team.

How much energy did your dunk give the team at the end of the first quarter? TV Langen then got lead back at 18-16.

The dunk was big, but also we had a phase before and after the dunk where we got steals and transition baskets which helped us a lot. Bring defense to offense was key.

TV Langen led 46-35 at the break and took control of the game thanks to Niklas Pons who produced 12 points. He was a one man wrecking crew. How special of a player is he?

His play is vital for our success. He is a playmaker/glue guy. He always gives the team unbelievable energy especially on defense. He also does a great job getting to the basket. He is our internal engine.

He already achieved a triple double this season. Does his play motivate you in general as a player to work on your total game?

Yes he does. I see his complete game and some of the things that he does well are my weaknesses. I try to soak up as much as possible from his game. He is an expert on 1-1 defense and knows how to punish defenders.

TV Langen really broke open the game in the third quarter and led 70-48 after 30 minutes. You had 10 points. Did you feel like you were in the zone at one point?

Yes it felt like I was in the zone. I finally hit a three pointer after many attempts. My confidence rose after that and I hit a few more three´s after that. We really controlled the flow as a whole in that phase.

Wurzburg had a little run in the last quarter, but TV Langen still won by a large margin. How thrilled are you to have finished strong as a team?

I´m happy that we finished so well. I think key was that everyone was prepared to play that night. Every player brought much energy. It was a complete team effort. It was a lot of fun.

TV Langen won the rebounds, had 24 assists, 21 steals and 12 turnovers. What stat was the best for you?

I feel like steals was the most important stat. The steals helped us get out on runs. Our defense helped us capitalize on scoring which turned the game around.

On what areas does the team have to improve on to keep the winning streak alive against 5-2 Speyer?

Playing in Speyer is always difficult. I remember last season with Rhondorf having no chance there. We have to work on our 1-1 defense, rebounding and paint protection. On offense we have to work on spacing and getting better into our sets. Hitting more shots would also help.

You shot 13/29 having 33 points and 11 rebounds. This was a career high. Was this your best offensive game?

It wasn´t my best shooting day as I have had better games where I scored a lot and took less shots. But overall with scoring, rebounding, passing and steals was it up with my best in my career.

You had good games this season with the exception of your 2 points against Orange Academy. Is your aggressiveness at a point now where your content?

I like the aggressiveness that I have now. I will always take shots and not shy away from doing it. But for me the most important thing is that the team work well together to have success.

What is your goal as a player this season with TV Langen? Can you make the next step?

My goal is to keep working on my game and get better and more consistent. I also want to be more of a leader on defense. I think that being good defensively will always help your team most.

Is being the number one scoring option important for you or are you content on sharing the important shots with guys like Washington, Crnjac or Pons?

I always want to share it. I never go into the game wanting to score the most points. I always want to share the scoring. Plus it takes the scoring load of your shoulder when many can do it.

What were the main reasons for joining TV Langen? Your from Frankfurt. How vital was being closer to home?

I wanted to focus more on my studies. I will do a bank apprenticeship starting on 1.1.2026 in Frankfurt at UBS

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Drago Crnjac?

He wins some and I win some. Drago has a knack for making tough shots.

Thanks Alex for the chat.

Elijah Miller(Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) Has Career High 33 Points In Win Against The Artland Dragons Proving That You Can´t Fall Asleep On Him

Elijah Miller (183-PG-1997, college: UPEI) is a 28 year old 183cm point guard from Ontario, Canada playing his third professional season and second in Germany with Pro A team Eisbaeren. Last season with the Eisbaeren he averaged 13.4ppg, 3.9rpg, APG-2 (6.7), 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 88.0%. In his rookie season he played for KK Kozuv AD Gevgelija (North Macedonia-Prva Liga) averaging 10.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 81.3%. He also played 2 seasons with the Edmonton Stingers (CEBL) averaging 8.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 25.8%, FT: 75.0% and 8.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.5apg, FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 80.0%. He began his basketball career with the University of Prince Edward Island (U Sports) averaging 15.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 5.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 82.1%, 20.7ppg, 5.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), Steals-4 (2.7spg), FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 86.6% and in his last year averaged 19.7ppg, 5.3rpg, 5.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 89.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after scoring a career high 33 points in the 88-84 win over the Artland Dragons.

Thanks Elijah on the big 88-84 win over the Artland Dragons. The Eisbaeren are now 6-1. How good does another one feel?

It feels good, but I have to give credit to the Artland Dragons who played a great game. We have to be ready again for the next game at Paderborn on Sunday.

Does a win feel better every new week?

They feel great every new time. We show that a new guy can step up every game. Every win feels good, because it isn´t easy to win in the Pro A.

The Eisbaeren had the 22-21 lead after 10 minutes. You got your first points with the last basket of the quarter. Did you have any idea then that you could have a good scoring night?

I not really focused too much on my scoring but just take what the defense gives me.

The Artland Dragons had the 42-41 lead at the break. You only had 5 points at the break. How did you go into the second half mentally with your own game?

I felt like I had to be more aggressive and put more pressure on their defense. I didn´t want to force too much, but play team basketball. I knew if I did that, that shots would come.

The Artland Dragons went on a quick 11-2 run to lead 53-43. What defensive principles did the Eisbaeren get away from?

We weren´t being aggressive enough. We didn´t show our best pick and roll defense. They were getting way too many easy baskets inside from their 5 man. They also found their shooters. That was the recipe for their scoring.

You got going in the last minutes scoring 8 points and Artland led only 61-60. Did you have to risk more or did you let the game come to you?

I let the game come to me. In the first half, they wanted me to take three´s. I was more patient in the second half and didn´t force anything. I shot with confidence and my teammates trusted me.

You scored the first 7 points for your team in the fourth quarter to regain the lead. Did you take the momentum of the end of the third quarter?

Yes I did. As soon as I saw one go in, my confidence was really high. I made sure that we ran the right play for myself or my teammates. They made me go under screens and we made them pay with open three´s.

Hendrik Warner hit some big baskets in crunch-time. How huge has his game been this season?

Hendrik is a great player in the Pro A. He is a real work horse. Coach always tells us that we have to reward our bigs by getting them the ball inside for easy baskets. Coach always says that our bigs have the hardest jobs on the team.

You continued to execute and scored 10 more points to help seal the win. What was key in crunch-time for the win?

I think key in crunch-time was just trusting the process. It was a long game and we did a good job disrupting them a bit. We found ways to get crucial stops and made big shots. We made sure that we scored and they didn´t.

You scored 33 points a career high. How good does that feel?

It feels good. I´m really not too focused on scoring, but it does feels good. It feels even better when you win.

Does a game like that spawn you to want to go for 35 the next game?

Yes it does. I know that I can score at a high level. I think that a game like this puts pressure on other teams defense because they know I can score the ball and be dangerous while also be able to create anytime for my teammates. They know that you can´t fall asleep on me on defense

Your averaging 9,0apg going into the Artland game. How strange does it feel not getting a dime in the game? The last game where you didn´t have an assist was on July 11th in the CEBL.

I feel like that was a mistake. I had at least 2 assists. I had an obvious assist to Jannis Von Seckendorf on the alley op.

The team continues to build chemistry and get better. How is this team better now than last season?

I think key in our success has been keeping many guys from last season and the new core of guys this season have all learned the system and adapted to it very well.

The team also defends very well. What has Steve Esterkamp drilled into your heads about the importance of defense in the Pro A?

We always practice defense first and offense second. Putting a lot of pressure on teams each game is key.

On Sunday you travel to 2-5 team Paderborn. What will be key to getting the win?

We have to stick to the basics. We have to follow our game plan and be disciplined. We have to play fast and make quick decisions and be locked into defense.

Thanks Elijah for the chat.