nfl

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

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

Maximillian Peters with the lay in

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

Luca Kellig at the FT line

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

Fabrice Heberer from downtown

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

Alfons Milatz with the drive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

David Muenkat at the FT line

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

Luka Scuka from outside

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

Jordan Theodore with the finger tip lay in

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

Tre Mitchell at the FT line

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

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 6

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

Congrats on the big 93-72 win over Ludwigsburg. Another game another win. How big was this win? Is every new win to keep the winning streak going bigger than the other no matter the circumstances?

It was a great win for us had. Our big Bjorn was out and we had some guys step up and played well in some big minutes. I don’t think we really focus on the streak just approaching every game with the mindset to do our job and win.

The RheinStars had a potent first quarter allowing 11 points, but allowed 26 in the second quarter. Did the opponent make any special adjustments or what did you as a team get away from?

We just allowed some easy drives to the basket and the help defense wasn’t there like it was in the first quarter.

Cologne stepped up the defense again in the third quarter, but really stepped up the offense in the fourth quarter with 32 points. Did Stephan Baeck have any special strategy for the fourth quarter?

There were guys that had good offensive night that help a lot . We have to do better on the boards but just guys stepping up was biggest thing.

Ludwigsburg German Julis Baumer had 23 points. The guy plays with so much energy. How much potential does he have?

He’s has a lot of potential and he was very aggressive and played smart . When he saw a mismatch, he took advantage. A very good player.

6 guys scored in double figures including Tim Lang. Talk a little about what you appreciate most about his game?

Tim had a very good game and shot the ball well. I love his floaters I feel everyone is going in .

You added 12 points and had 5 rebounds and 2 assists. You were consistent on a night where every one was clicking. What was your biggest focus with your game on this night’?

We had guys out and I felt this was a game to get good shots. This could’ve been a game where I shot the ball wild but just taking good shots and being good on defense was the main focus.

You next play against Wurzburg who after suffering a 6 game losing streak to begin the season have a 4 game winning streak. What will be key to winning?
The key to winning will be defense . Being aggressive on that end is the main focus. Also we have to be better at rebounding as a team.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Who Knows Maybe 50 Points Could Be In The Cards For Jaylen McManus(BC Baeren Kleinbasel) But All He Cares About Is Winning

Jaylen McManus (201-F-1997, college: Charleston) is a 27 year old 201cm forward that was born in Charlotte, North Carolina and grew up in Huntersville. He is playing his third professional season and second with BC Baeren Kleinbasel (Switzerland-NLB). He began his professional career with Ockelbo BBK (Sweden-Superettan) averaging 23.0ppg, Reb-4 (9.6rpg), 1.6spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 83.3%. He began his basketball career at North Mecklenburg high school and then played at the College of Charleston (NCAA) from 2016-2020 playing a total of 125 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about after dropping 46 points and scoring the most in the world for that week.

Thanks Jaylen for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your second season with the BC Baeren Kleinbasel (Switzerland-NLB). Last week you were the top scorer in the world with 46 points.What was nicer continuing the winning streak or scoring 46 points?

46 points is very cool to have, but I am more happy for the win. That’s what really matters at the end of the day.

How quickly did you know from the start of the game that it could be a good night for you scoring wise?

I didn’t really know how good of a night I was going to have, but once I realized I was scoring a lot more off the ball than usual, I had the feeling that I was going to have a pretty decent game!

Talk a little about the game. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?

The key to get the win in crunch time, was mainly staying focused on the defensive end. Making sure we were limiting their offensive possession and staying poised at all times.

You filled the stat sheet very well. You had 4 steals and 2 blocks. How happy were you in general that you performed at a high level at both ends?

I was actually more happy about the defensive performance than the offensive. I did not know I had 4 steals and 2 blocks until getting on the bus after the game. I was very pleased with the performance defensively.

How beneficial can a game like this be for your overall self-confidence? What steps did you make as a player in this game?

A game like this is always helpful carrying on some type of momentum going into the next game. But, I will say I am not a person that gets too high on moments like this and also doesn’t get too low. I like to stay level headed and have the same mindset for each game. I wouldn’t say I necessarily say I did anything different as far as routine and mindset than any other game. Just always a better confidence boost when you are winning.

What was your favorite bucket of the game?

Great question! I haven’t really thought about which one exactly. But, there was a play in the first half where I drove right and made a nice move for an and one. I know there’s probably better ones than that but that’s one I can think of off the top of my head as of now.

Scoring 46 points is a rare feat. Did you have to get donuts for your teammates or did the team do something for you?

Haha! No, I didn’t have to get anything for the team. Although I will say the players were happy and congratulated me. Very great group of teammates!

You scored 46 points beating your top mark of 45 points in your pro career. Is 50 points in the cards in the future? If you would of hit 2 more three´s then you would of reached 50 points.

Yeah 46 points is a really good achievement, but to think of 50! Oh man! Not really sure if I’m thinking of or trying to do it. But, if a game is going well then maybe that could happen, but not really focus on chasing that or trying to get that mark. As long as the team is winning that’s all I care about!

Thanks Jaylen for the chat

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Basketball Chat Volume 5

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

Congrats on the thrilling 97-96 win vs FC Bayern Munich. How good did the 2 week break do the team?

Thanks. It was great break for us felt some of the guys needed some time with family so it was good.

This was another close win after the Ahorn Baskets. How good does the team feel in general in crunch-time?

Yeah it was another close one. I think we understand what we need to execute on both ends of the court during crunch time.

The RheinStars exploded for 35 points in the first quarter. Was that the best offensive quarter of the season?

I think that’s one of the best quarters we’ve had this season offensively.

FC Bayern Munich 2 fought back in quarters 2 and 3 scoring a combined 52 points. What did the team lose control of on the defensive end most?

As a team we got out of our details and being disciplined, such as ball pressure and our rotations were late. We have to do a better job at that if we want to keep winning.

How key was the 8-0 run to start the fourth quarter? Cologne were spot on attacking the rim:

Just being more aggressive going to the basket and feeding the bigs on the role. We had to get a few easy baskets.

How dangerous was Ivan Volf who led the comeback in the fourth quarter and was Munich top scorer with 24 points. What did you like most about his game?

He had a good game. He shot the ball well and got to free throw line quite a few times.

Davi Remagen hit the wining basket. How much is the minutes for young Germans paying off?

Was a huge shot by Davi and I feel like he is getting more into rhythm. I feel the more the minutes make them feel more comfortable on the court.

You had a solid game with 16/3/3/5 stats. How much did your 33% from the 2 point range bother you?

I just had to be more aggressive with my finishing couple mid range was in and out but just have to focus more on finishing through contact

You had a super defensive game. How do you feel is your game as a defender growing this season?

Coaches expect me to be more dangerous defensively so I’ve really been trying to focus on that end a lot more. Great defense usually turns in to great offense

The RheinStars next play another young team with Ludwigsburg. I can imagine Stephan Baeck will want not such a close finish again. What will be key to win?

Yes of course try to play a lot better than we did this past game. We definitely have to do better defensively with being aggressive and being disciplined also. The key will be a lot more focus on defense than the previous game.

Thanks Malik for the chat

Mike Davis(Fit/One Wurzburg Baskets) Is Confident That His Three Pointer Will Start To Shine Soon

Mike Davis Jr. (193-G-1996, college: Queens, NC) is a 28 year old 193cm guard from Georgia playing his seventh season overseas and playing his first season with FIT/One Wuerzburg Baskets (Germany-BBL). He has gathered valuable experience in countries like Ireland, Georgia, Ukraine, Poland, Greece, Russia and Turkey. He began his basketball career at Brunswick high school and then played 2 seasons with Francis Marion University (NCAA2) averaging 11.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 69.4% and 17.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 68.3% and then played 2 seasons at Queens University (NCAA2) averaging 13.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 74.4% and 12.4ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.9spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 76.5%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the tough 81-77 loss to the Niners Chemnitz.

Thanks Mike for talking for talking to germanhoops.com. Wurzburg suffered a tough 81-77 loss to the Niners Chemnitz. What was tougher having the win streak snapped or totally collapsing on the defensive end in the fourth quarter?

I would say the winning streak was tougher. Playing bad defense in the last quarter was tough, but we lost momentum by having the win streak snapped.

Wurzburg played a great first half leading 32-23. Did everything go accordingly to coaches game plan?

We kept them off the paint and were aggressive on defense. We executed pretty well.

In the third quarter it was a three point party in the first 5 minutes and the Niners just executed better. What adjustments did the Niners make and why did Wurzburg lose that intensity on the defensive end?

They got out on transition a bit more. That opened up the 3 point line more and they continued to make shots.

In the fourth quarter the Niners Chemnitz scored an incredible 35 points. As a team you allow 73 points per game. How can one explain 35 points allowed in the last quarter?

They made really tough contested shots and even a half court shot. They also continued to run.

What was it like playing against ultra veteran Deandre Lansdowne? He has that special combination between veteran leadership and talented offensive player.

It was Ok. I know that he is respected in the league. It was just another regular game for me.

What was key in crunch-time for the win? The game was close but you were unable to keep them off the free throw line.

We had some unlucky calls. They made shots and just executed a bit better and the game swung in their direction.

A crazy stat is this. Wurzburg got to the free throw line 37 times and Chemnitz coughed up the ball 23 times but still won. What do you believe can you learn from this loss?

Missing 16 free throws played a big role. We should of capitalized more off their turnovers. We didn´t get the stops that we needed.

Victor Bailey had a solid game with 20 points. What was most difficult in containing him?

He is a very solid player and is one of the better shooters. He had a very good game so a lot of respect to him.

Jhivvan Jackson had an excellent scoring game with 35 points. On any other day, Wurzburg would have won. How valuable is his game for the team success?

He is so valuable for us. He is one of our top players. He is our engine and gets us going. He makes big shots and knows the league well.

After scoring in double figures in your first 7 BBL games, you mustered only 7 points on 2/10 shooting. Is it fair to say that your still adjusting to the BBL in terms of finding your shot?

Yes definitely. I´m not shooting the ball well in the BBL around sub 30%. I can´t blame it on the new league. I´m my own self in the BCL shooting the ball a lot better there. I´m still figuring it out in the BBL. I should be coming out of it soon.

How motivated will he team be to bounce back in BCL play? Maybe the loss was a little blessing in disguise?

We will be super motivated. If we win we can clinch.

You will play in Hungary this week. How much are you looking forward to playing in Hungary? Have you been there before?

It will just be another game. We won´t see anything from the city.

In the first game Wurzburg won convincing despite Holon getting 35 bench points. What will be key to getting win again?

We have to contain their ball handlers well, play good pick and roll and 1-1 defense.

Thanks Mike for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 4

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

After tough loss to Erfurt and an exciting win over the Ahorn Baskets, how vital was it for the team to get a more comfortable win again beating Coburg 89-63?

It felt good getting a comfortable win again. The team still felt we started off slow but glad we picked it up in the second half.

The RheinStars had a slow start but came back in the first quarter, but still trailed 23-20 after 10 minutes. Especially Ben Diederichs gave the team problems.

Yeah we started off too slow and weren´t locked in as we should’ve been, especially me. We have to all be collectively invested if we want to stop the slow starts.

The RheinStars then outscored Coburg 48-25 in the second and third quarters. What adjustments did the team make to defend better?

We applied more ball pressure than we did the first half. We picked up the intensity and started getting easy buckets in transition.

The RheinStars broke the game wide open in the third quarter. How vital was your aggressiveness on the offensive end that helped ignite the RheinStars offense?

I felt I wasn’t aggressive enough on both ends of the floor so felt I needed to pick it up. Too relaxed first half and needed to play harder so the team could go on a run.

How proud were of the team that there were no let ups in the fourth quarter? The team played hard and executed until the end.

That was a good sign for sure, seeing how everyone was still focused in the end. We want to be a great team and in order to do that we need to finish games strong no matter what.

How satisfied were you overall of the defensive effort and pressure? You forced 26 turnovers as a team.

I thought we did a great job, have guys that play very hard on the defensive end and bring a lot of energy. Our defense is the key for us so as a team forcing 26 turnovers is good.

You had a very good shooting performance and scored 25 points. You were very efficient in 19 minutes. Are you getting more and more comfortable with your teammates every new game?

I’m getting more comfortable and I was just being aggressive and getting easy baskets. I know my teammates trust me so I just try to keep the aggression going.

You next play against the weak FC Bayern Munich. This is another team with very young players. How will you prepare for this next task best?

We have to focus on our details no matter the team or age. We have to come out with focus and be aggressive from start to finish. Personally I have to do a better job out the gate and be better defensively for the team.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Now Jeremy Black(Bad Bergzabern) Has Double the Grind With The Edeka Warehouse and Basketball But Still Loves It At Age 39

Jeremy Black (205-C-1985, college: Tampa) is a 39 year old 205cm center playing his 16th pro season and 6th with TV Bad Bergzabern. He began his basketball career with Blake high school and then played at Tampa (NCAA2) from 2004-2008 playing a total of 104 games and in his senior year played 30 games: 18.7ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg, 1.5spg, FG: 49.3%, 3Pts: 30.8%, FT: 72.1%. he played 6 years in the Pro A with Jena and BG Karlsruhe playing a total of 190 pro A games. He also split a season ion Luxemburg and Switzerland. He also played 3 Pro B seasons with 2 with BG Karlsruhe and 1 with KIT SC Karlsruhe. He spoke to germanhoops.com after a Regionalliga 2 game against the Bona Baskets Limburg.

Thanks Jeremy for talking to germanhoops.com. It´s been a while since I last saw you play. It was in the 2017-2018 season when you played with KIT SC Karlsruhe (Germany-ProB). Has time flown by for you?

Yes it has. That was my last season in the Pro B. After that season it just made more sense for me to play at TV Bad Bergzabern. I had a family and it fit with work. I also wasn´t far away from Karlsruhe.

We have done interviews in the past. Any idea how many if you had to guess?

I would say 2 or 3

It has only been 4 and our first was more than 10 years ago in 2014. How crazy is that your still playing?

Yes it is. Now your really going down memory lane.

Your playing your sixth season for TV Bad Bergzabern (Germany-2.Regionalliga). What kind of an experience has it been for you?

I am player coach this season. Originally I wanted to only keep in shape, but then things happened with the team where I had to step up. They had roster problems and injuries. I had the most experience and I really like the family atmosphere here. It is a real challenge being a player/coach

Technically your playing your 16th pro season. Do you still take it as serious as 10 years ago or is it now more for fun?

I´m very competitive. My teammates tell me that I´m too intense. I feel like you can´t improve unless you take the game seriously. My focus is always to get the team better. We came with 7 guys to Limburg and won by more than 20 points. I think that teams underestimate us. It has been like this for a while. We know how to play well with a reduced roster.

How do you make a living now in Germany? Do you have a 9-5 job?

I actually don´t work 9-5. It´s more like 4 am to 12.30. I get up at 3.00am and work the ware house at Edeka. Then I come home and clean the house and get my daughter from school. My wife takes care of our daughter in the morning and then goes to work and comes home at 6:00pm. Before Edeka I was at Lidl.

I can´t find stats on Eurobasket.com because they don´t have stats for Regionalliga 2 players. Are you still putting up big stats like in the Pro A and Pro B?

My stats are always fluctuating. I usually start at the 4, but will also help bring up the ball. I´m practically doing it all and always adjusting to what we don´t have on the court. I try to do everything I can so we can win games. I believe that I´m near triple double stats.

What is your role now as a 39 year old? You have much experience but so does Philipp Behrendt. Do you guys share leadership duties?

Yes. He is the engine. He is the other big on the team that we can count on. He has good moves and is another big body that gives us a stable front. He does a good job cleaning up the paint area.

What has it been like having ex pro B veteran Aaron Schmitz as point guard. How much easier does he make your job?

He is actually my assistant coach. He is my right hand man. He is a second set of eyes. He helps with plays and subs and things I can´t see when I´m on the court.

In your time in the Pro A, you were a dominant center and one of the top 3 each season. The Pro A has gotten more competitive. How would you fare today in the Pro A?

I believe that I would still be effective and be able to help my team. Getting rebounds, scoring and getting to the free throw line was always a staple in my game. It never changed. I could still do it today. I´m walking like 27-28 kilometers a day with my warehouse job. I´m in shape.

You were teammates with Rouven Roessler at BG Karlsruhe. What was your nicest moment with him on the court?

We had many nice moments. His birthday is a day after mine. I remember the derby games against Carilsheim around our birthdays. We always stepped it up and brought the wins home.

Do you agree with me that Roessler and Black could have been a great duo in the easyCredit BBL if having been given the chance?

Absolutely. The season where we had Mike Stockton, we were so close. We were up 2-1 against Vechta and lost 3-2. That was our year. We had such a great roster, but it just wasn´t meant to be.

How much longer do you still want to play?

Another 2-3 years until I´m 42 or 43 years old.

Who was the toughest player that you battled in the Pro A?

There were many great players. I´m not good with names. I think I would name Rob Ferguson. He was with Vechta that moved up.

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

Absolutely. Nothing is better than the original. You shouldn´t mess with the original.

Thanks Jeremy for the chat.

Medipolis SC Jena Continue To Win And Chris Carter Is Looking To Help A 4th Team Reach The easyCredit BBL

Chris Carter (193-G-1992, college: Florida Tech) is a 32 year old 193cm guard that is playing his 10th professional season overseas and ninth in Germany and first with Medipolis Jena. He began his basketball career at the Air Force academy. He then played at Air Force (NCAA) and Florida Institute of Technology (NCAA2). He began his pro basketball career in the Ukraine and then played in Germany with the Niners Chemnitz and Rasta Vechta. He helped all 3 German teams that he played with move up a league. He then played 4 years with the Rostock Seawolves.He has played 300 + pro games and 97 easyCredit BBL games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big win over Kirchheim.

Thanks Chris for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats on the big win against Kirchheim. The club is currently on it´s second win streak after losing to Trier in between. How is the team better now in comparison to the first win streak?

I think we are just getting a better understanding of what it takes to win games at a high level.

Jena jumped all over Kirchheim at the start and led 26-20. 20 points was still a lot of points to allow. What do believe led to Kirchheim being able to score better after your quick start?

They have very talented individuals that can score the ball well.

Diminutive point guard Zac Cooks gave good energy at the start. How do you guys compliment each other best? You guys play a lot together which puts you more at the 2 when that happens?

Yes Zach is a phenomeal player who can shoot the ball well and bring speed that is just tough to handle. I think we balance each other well out and it´s hard to prepare for.

The game was dead locked at 45-45. Kirchheim came back. Cam Henry gave Kirchheim good energy. After 33 points on Friday, he only netted 15 against Jena. What makes him so difficult to slow down?

He can score the ball very well and plays with extreme confidence. I like his game.

Jena led by 3 points in a tight game after 3 quarters. What did head coach Bjoern Harmsen tell you guys to do better going into the fourth quarter?

Just to take your matchups personal on defense and get stops. Then move the ball on offense.

In the fourth quarter Zach Cooks led the charge and made big baskets to secure the win. What else was key for getting the win in crunch time?

Just playing smart and using the clock to our advantage. Then exploiting the mismatch.

The team found a good rhythm on defense early in the season allowing 76 points per game. Does this team have the will to step it up a notch in the second half of the season? What still has to be tweaked?

Yes we have to play much better on defense and there is still a lot to improve on. We have to put the work in daily.

What has it been like being teammates with ultra veteran Raymond Morgan. He is nearing the end of his career and plays very little. From vet to vet, what can a guy like you still add to your game from a guy like that?

He is a great teammate and I think he still has some more good years in the tank if he wants. I would say besides how strong he is, what surprised me is how good of a free throw shooter he is.

Another great teammate is Rasheed Moore a player that simply can do it all and is the ultimate team player. Is there anything that you haven´t seen him do yet?

Rasheed can play pretty much every position which is a pleasure to have. I always played against him in the past years so I am just happy to be on the same team this time. Great player.

Kristofer Krause gave good energy and points at many junctures in the game. He has developed well from a pro b player into a Pro A player. What have you appreciated most about his game?

Krissi is a great player that brings energy and I think is the best defender in the league. But now he is playing with confidence on offense and he is just another problem that teams have to worry about.

Your playing your first season with Jena. One thing you have done well your whole career has been choosing the right winning teams. This could be your 4th team that you help reach the BBL. What makes this team so special?

The team chemistry is great with this group of guys. It would be special to go for number 4 but it would be my first as a German.

You have been working some months with Bjoern Harmsen. Are you like an added assistant coach? What do you appreciate most about his coaching philosophy?

No, I wouldn’t say that. I am still a player and I lead the best way I can. Bjorn is a genius as a coach and knows how to make adjustments. He is a hard nosed coach but I can appreciate that.

Your averaging the most minutes since your senior year at Florida Tech with 30. That is very special with age 32. Do you feel like your aging like fine wine on the court

Yeah I think that I am playing at a high level and have a lot of good years in the tank God willing.

This is your best Pro A season as a pro. You had strong seasons from 2016-2018 with Chemnitz and Vechta. Does the game feel easier for you now with more experience despite being older?

Yes I definitely can see my experience playing a huge factor to the success of the team so far as well as quality coaching.

How would you compare the Pro A now with 2016. The Pro A is more competitive now, but how else is it different now than then?

The pro A is drastically more competitive. The talent on each team is much better with more quality. Also guys coming down from the first league is helping strengthen the league too.

What duties do you have this season besides leadership? There are so many incredible personalities on the team. Is leadership less of a duty this season than in season´s past?

Yeah I don’t really try to lead. I just try to have fun and stay positive and whatever happens happens.

Are you like a mentor for Raphael Falkenthal? How have you observed his development? What does he need to do to make the next step?

He is a great young talent and I try my best to give him confidence and put him through all the drills that I do. I think the more reps he gets then he will continue making big steps forward.

You have lived in many great cities in Germany. Now Jena is home. What do you enjoy most about the city?

It’s a small city where everything is a 5-10 min drive so I like it.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Zach Cooks?

He is a great 1v1 player but I think I would use my size.

We never play though.

Thanks Chris for the chat.