nfl

Victor Bailey(Niners Chemnitz) Has Always Been A Natural Scorer But Wants To Open Up His Game More At The PG Position

Victor Bailey Jr (193-SG-1998, college: GMU) is a 26 year old 198cm forward from Austin, Texas that is playing his second pro season and first with the Niners Chemnitz averaging 12/2/2 stats in the easyCredit BBL and 10/3/3 in the Basketball Champions League. Last season he played his rookie season overseas helping German Pro A team PS Karlsruhe win the title averaging 13,3ppg and 2,0rpg. He began the season with Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 9.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 39.0%, 3FGP: 34.3%, FT: 92.6%. He began his basketball career with McNeil High School. He began his NCAA career with the University of Oregon playing a total of 73 games. He averaged 6.7ppg, 1.7rpg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 87.0% and in his second year 7.4ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 42.5%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 91.1%. he then played 2 seasons at the University of Tennessee playing a total of 60 games averaging 10.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 82.8% and in his second season averaged 2.6ppg. He finished his NCAA career at George Mason University (NCAA) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 80.4%.  He spoke to germanhoops.com after the win over teh EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Congrats on the big 87-78 win over the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. How big was this win? After losing 4 of the first 5 games, the team now has won 5 of it´s last 6 games

That win was huge. We are starting to get comfortable with each other and are on a role now. I hope we can continue it especially in the BBL and also transform over to the BCL.

The first quarter was a real dog fight as no team could get away. Oliver Nkamhoua began with 2 massive dunks. How thrilling is it always getting power dunks from him? You see it so much.

Yes absolutely. We are used to it. He is explosive and when you see that from him it gives everyone a boost. He gave us fire and it helped guys coming from the bench.

The Niners Chemnitz were able to control the game in the second quarter, but Oldenburg kept punching back. How proud were you of the team of being able to withstand their punches and still lead as you led 46-39.

We work on this in practice where we are able to get back up and withstand runs. Coach Rodrigo does a great job preparing us. So when we see it in games, we are prepared for it.

Oldenburg came out strong in the third quarter going on a run and getting three´s from Justin Jaworski. Is he one of those snipers you would always rather have on your team than have to play against him?

Yes. He is very talented and is one of those shooters where every shot he takes looks like it will go in. He got away a bit. He have to do a better job giving him tough looks and keeping him at bay and get hands in his face.

Chemnitz led by a few points going into the fourth quarter. Jeff Garret hit back to back three´s to pave the way to the win. Did that mentally hurt Oldenburg at that point?

You never know, but for us his three´s were huge. When we saw his shots go in, it gave us a lot of energy. It gave us a lot of confidence and was big for our mentality.

In the last 2,5 minutes, ultra veteran Deandre Lansdowne added 11 points just like that with 3 3 pointers. Did Chemnitz just want it more than Oldenburg?

Dre is our veteran. He just knows what to do in those moments. We just tried to follow his lead and do our part on defense. He got hot and just helps us whenever needed.

What do you believe was the biggest strength on this day for Chemnitz? Was it that knack of always being able to stick together when you needed it most?

Yes absolutely. We practice hard in practice and that gets us prepared for games. We have seen it before in practice and are able to do it in games. We have to be able to keep building on these habits.

What kind of an experience has it been playing with ultra teammate Deandre Lansdowne? Where does he rank in all-time teammates that you have had in terms of leadership?

He is definitely up there. I came a bit late to the team, but he right away took me under his wing. He was moved mainly to point guard last season and had to get adjusted. The same thing happened to me this season and he has really been very supportive and helped me with the growing pains and how I can adapt best. He has been a big help and helped me speed up the process.

How vital is a guy like Jeff Garrett on the team? What have you appreciated most about his game?

He is and is one of those guys that has been doing it for a while. He is another one of those guys that will help you and I will listen. He is a big help rebounding. He is everywhere on the rebound at both ends. He has helped me with his energy and communication.

Will Christmas is still finding his groove this season. He like you came from lower leagues to reach the BBL. He was even in the Pro B only a few years ago. How well can you relate to him being a player who continues to climb the basketball ladder?

Everyone on this team has a story. I can relate to his story and we have conversations and I like to pick his brain. We alternate at the point guard position. We try to help each other. He is a great teammate.

You came from one winning program PS Karlsruhe to the next with the Niners. What have you appreciated most about the organization?

I have been blessed to have been part of teams if it was Tennessee, PS Karlsruhe or the Niners now where hard work has been very important. All these teams had and have a great work ethic. I´m seeing it again this season and it´s nothing new for me. I have been used to hard work my whole career and it´s great seeing how it´s paying off this season.

What has been the biggest adjustment coming from the Pro A to the easyCredit BBL for you?

It has been the athleticism. I feel like the skill level is high at both levels. I just remember that for me it was easier to get lay up´s and getting to the rim in the Pro A. In the BBL, there are more blocks and deflections. Guys are so athletic in the BBL.

What has it been like playing for top coach Rodrigo Pastore? He has done incredible work in Chemnitz in the last years. How has he helped your game most?

He has been so encouraging and gives me all the confidence to be aggressive and be able to make mistakes, but at the same time also give constructive criticism. He tries all he can to make me a productive player and help us win. I really appreciate that. He pushes me very much.

Your putting up strong stats in the BBL and BCL. What kind of a player have you become in the short time you have been in these 2 new leagues?

For me it´s all about trying to adapt. I try to watch how other guys had success like a Tyrese Rice. He said on his podcast that being successful has to do with how well you adapt I just try to be as productive as possible and help my team win at any cost. I came in late in Karlsruhe last season and had to adapt to all. At the end we were Pro A champions. This season, I´m just trying to help the team win. That has been helping my game.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now to continue to be consistent in the BBL and BCL?

Scoring has always come natural to me. This season I´m trying to open up my game more at the point guard position. I want to be able to make plays and get guys open and make the extra pass. I want to make myself more of an allround player.

You scored 22 points in a BCL game in a big win over Benfica. Was that your best game so far as a professional?

It wasn´t my best game as a professional, but my best game in the BCL. I´m getting more comfortable in the BCL. I´m trying to get a better handle on it. I just want to go out into each game with the confidence that I can be consistent each night. That is the next step for me.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Deandre Lansdowne?

We actually haven´t played et. I like playing against Oliver. I would like to play against him.

Thanks Victor for the chat.

The Best feeling For Jarvis Williams(Amicale Steinsel) Wasn´t That He Scored 50 Points But That His Teammates Were Happily Cheering For Him

Jarvis Williams is a 35 year old 198cm forward playing his 10th professional season and fourth with Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-LBBL) and fifth season with a Luxemburg club. He also has played in countries like Japan, Switzerland, and Dominican Republic. He also played parts of 2 seasons in the G-League playing with Erie and Iowa totaling 50 games. He began his basketball career at Bradley Tech High School and the played 2 seasons at Kirkwood Community College. He then played 2 seasons with the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay (NCAA) before finishing at Minnesota State University Mankato (NCAA2) averaging 14.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 80.6%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after hitting for 50 points in a Luxemburg game.

Congrats Jarvis on scoring 50 points in a professional game. You have been a scorer all your life. How special was this?

I would say for the most part I think if I go back to college I think it was seen and my time at Minnesota State it was shown more in my first year of pro ball and it was definitely my role then taking a step back in the D league to play a role but after that besides my small time in G league my role has been to score and I’m blessed to score in many ways as you can see

How aware are you that scoring 50 points at any level isn´t easy?

I’m very very aware it isn’t easy. So many things have to go right and to score it effectively is more harder but for me I was surrounded around a group who knew I could do it and they see my work daily and most importantly they wanted me to go get it.

This was the title on eurobasket.com. Jarvis Williams was the best scorer of the day in the world yesterday with the 50 points he had in Amicale. What goes through your mind when you realize that nobody scored more points than you do in the world?

Honestly it’s an unbelievable feeling and it’s still a shock for me that I did it and when it says the World it hit me differently because there are so many other leagues around. But like I say and can’t say enough this was done by my team and coach. They put me in position to score and most of all they kept believing in me.

5 years ago you scored 49 points in a pro game. Did that result annoy you a bit the last years? Being so close to 50 but not achieving it?

Honestly No that was a rememberable game though was game 1 of the playoffs. I was at the time with Sparta had zero points in first quarter and just went from there. I felt I didn’t deserve 50 that night and we lost too.

How rapidly into the game did you know that you might have a really good game?

I would say during the game I kind of felt I’ll have a good game I was aggressive things were going my way but 50 I didn’t see that I’ll say that honestly.

Did you even know you hit 50 points yourself or did a teammate tell you?

I’ll give a shout out a few people Alex Noah and Amazing Bobby. I know for sure Alex and Noah kept telling me the closer I got and Bobby kept feeding me the ball. I can say this what makes this 50 point game that special when you got teammates that are happily cheering for you to score that many points. Jonas Scott Ely Tom Sean Basil Neal Bob Jule all these guys were just genuinely happy and supporting me and just happy for me in getting this amazing accomplishment. I got to give a S/O to our Fans they showed Love and was cheering the closer I got to 50 as well. When I got 40 that was a milestone and of course 50 as well

Does the 50 points motivate you even more to get more points in a future game? Is possibly 60 points realistic? What was your favorite bucket from yourself in the game?

Honestly I never go into a game like that I take it game by game possession by possession and if stuff get to falling my way I’m sure my team will let me know quick fast and in a hurry lol. Of course I’ll love to score 81 like my favorite player Kobe Bryant but you know I’m just thankful for my 50 points in definitely with me for life

Did veteran Billy Mcdaniel have any nice words for you at the end? He himself is a walking bucket and legend in Luxemburg basketball.

Billy is like a big brother to me. I think he was more disappointed they were losing and I happen to have 50 points on them but he did say why you still in game and I have the upmost respect for him we had almost the same journey in Luxembourg. He definitely is a GOAT In this Country.

Do you have to buy the team dinner after a performance like that or how does that work with your team?

I’m sure I’ll owe the team Beer or something for sure they will let me know for sure.

Thanks Jarvis for the chat.

The Miles Vs Malik Riddle Weekly Basketball Chat Volume 2

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.

The RheinStars lost a tough 93-92 loss to the Basketball Lowen. How tough was it not playing and being able to help your team?

It was very tough not being able to play and only watch. I really wish I was able to play but unfortunately I wasn’t able to play due to injury.

It was a tough battle that went to OT. It seemed like Erfurts big plays helped them pave the way to OT.

It was a hard fought game. I feel like the guys played hard but made some mistakes that the other team fed off of. They made some big shots down the stretch and that really hurt.

In the OT Paul Albrecht made a big block. Did that give the guests the momentum to win?

I don’t think that gave them the momentum at the end. I feel it was back and forth and was a huge block but I also think we had many other opportunities that we just didn’t take advantage of like we should’ve.

Ruppert Hennen was huge as always leading all scorers in points. Is his mid range game unstoppable?

Yeah Ruppi seemed unstoppable in the second half with that mid range It seems like automatic. He is a really good player.

What positives could the RheinStars take from the loss? A 1 point loss always hurts, but the team did lead some categories of the stats.

Yeah I think one of the things is taking care of the ball. I feel we had too many turnovers very careless ones and feel that hurt us as a team. Hopefully we will be more aggressive and take care of the ball better.

On what areas of the game will the RheinStars work on most this week?

I feel our defense is always the main focus for us. We believe that great defense can lead to great offense. So our defense is always what we focus on most.

The next opponent are the Ahorn Baskets who are 3-3. What will be key to getting the win?

Locking in on defense will be the key and us being aggressive from start to finish will be the key for us to win.

Thanks Malik for the chat.

Did Some of That Opening Night Celtics Three Point Shooting Extravaganza Rub Off On Alex Barcello And The MLP Academics In Frankfurt?

Pic credit: Zibart.de

Alex Barcello (188-G-1998, college: BYU) is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Arizona playing his third professional season and first with easyCredit BBL club MLP Academics Heidelberg. Last season he played Acunsa Gipuzkoa BC San Sebastian (Spain-LEB Gold) averaging19.6ppg) 4.1rpg, 3.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 90.0%. He played his rookie season with Kolossos H Hotels Rodou (Greece-GBL) averaging 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, in Nov.’22 moved to Filou Oostende (Belgium-Pro Basketball League) averaging 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 47.3%, FT-1 (94.7%). He began his basketball career at Corona del Sol high school and then played 2 years at the University of Arizona and then finished at Brigham Young University (NCAA) averaging 16.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 47.7%, FT: 85.6%, 16.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 86.5%. He spoke to germanmhoops.com after the road win in Frankfurt.

Congrats Alex on the massive 95-72 win over the Frankfurt Skyliners. How big was this win for the team after the tough blow out loss to Bonn?

The win in Frankfurt was huge. It helped give us momentum again with guys coming back. We showed that we could win against good teams without a full roster.

You guys seem to be a bank on the road. Is the team getting more comfortable with every new win?

Yes we are. Each game in the BBL is tough. To be able to travel and win games is huge.

The MLP Academics ran away with the game in the second half. It is no secret that the three point shooting was huge in the win. Did that opening night extravaganza of the Celtics rub off on the team?

I like that. Maybe you could say so. I think it began on defense. We had had some hiccups on defense. We stepped up our defense in the second half and hit more three´s. It all went well together.

What words of wisdom did coach Danny Jansson give the team at halftime? Did the team want to make any adjustments?

He told us to say true to what we were doing and that was defending well. We were lacking a bit on ball pressure, and communication. We also did a better job of getting loose balls. We cleaned it all up.

When Parsons and Calvin have strong games, Frankfurt has very good chances to win. They were soldi but not great. How big was it shutting them down in the game plan?

I think that it was a point of emphasis. They are good players. We just tried to make it as tough as possible for them.

Frankfurt did a super job on the offensive boards. Is rebounding something that the team has to address more?

I think that anytime that we get more rebounds, it is good. We stress getting stops. But we do have more upside on rebounding.

Horne and Weathers combined for 34 points. What do you appreciate most about their games?

I like how much energy Michael brings. He puts a lot of pressure on ball and even when he gets beat, he is great on the recovery. Dj is a great scoring talent. You saw it in the game. It is great to have such versatility at the guard position. It is nice to have them on the team.

How big was the game of Ryan Mikesell? He seems to be a guy that can do everything. Is he the team´s Swiss army knife?

I think that Ryan has some experience. He has played for coach Danny before and can do so much on the court. He gets rebounds, stops, can dish and score. He is the type of guy that you always want on the team. He plays the game the right way.

You had 2 solid scoring games, but your 24 points was your break out game. How motivated were you going in after being 3/10 in the first 2 games?

I don´t put too much thought into it. Each game is different. I just try to give my best each game and trust my work ethic. It was definitely nice to see the ball go in. I´m always confident in my shooting.

You have always been a scorer in your career, but Heidelberg has many options. Could you imagine not being as consistent as a scorer this season, but still being versatile?

I don´t think I can imagine that. I just try to do what I can to help my team win. If the team needs me to get assists then I will do it, or if they want me to score then I will. The biggest thing in my career is to win games. I think that with our team versatility we can do that.

Heidelberg is one of the surprise teams in the easyCredit BBL. What has been the secret to the success?

I think it has to do with the group of guys that we have and the coaching staff that have done a good job bringing us together. Our identity is our defense, but we have many that can score. Our defense translates to offense. We are an unselfish group of players that focus on what the coaching staff wants.

I have heard playoff talk concerning the MLP Academics. How well is head coach Danny Jansson keeping the team grounded?

He is doing a great job. Each day is new and our practices are hard and physical. We know that it is still a long season. We have a lot to prove. We won a few games, but have bigger goals.

The team continues to be up and down on the defensive end. What areas of the defense need to be tweaked most at the moment?

We have to be more comfortable with each other. We have to communicate better, get on the same page and limit mistakes.

The MLP Academics next play Wurzburg. They are another highly talented team. What will be key to getting the win?

I sound like a broken record, but it will be defense. They are a talented team. We have to be on the same page.

Thanks Alex for the chat.

JT Shumate(ERA Basketball Nymburk) Knows Once He Finds Ways To Be Physical Without Fouling It Will Help Him Be More Of An Impact Defensively

JT Shumate (201-F-1999, college: Toledo) is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Newark, Ohio playing his second professional season and first with ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). Last season he played with CSO Voluntari (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 7.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 74.2%; and in the ENBL averaged 10.5ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT-1 (92.6%). He began his basketball career with Newark High School and then played 2 seasons at Walsh University (NCAA2) averaging 18.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 72.5% and 14.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 73.9%. He then played 3 years at the The University of Toledo (NCAA) averaging 11.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 67.2%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 82.3%, 15.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 48.2%, FT: 82.0% and 16.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 86.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a Basketball Champions League game against German team Rasta Vechta.

Thanks JT for talking to germanhoops.com You’re playing your second professional season with the ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL).What has it been like coming from Ohio to Nymburk? Last season you were in Romainia. How has it been living in little Nymburk? But Prague isn´t too far away right?

It has been a great transition this year coming to Nymburk! The town is beautiful and the country in general. Also, my team has really accepted me and made me feel valued. And yes, Prague being close by has been awesome. I’ve been 3 or 4 times already and I have loved the experience.

Your playing a BCL game against German team Rasta Vechta. What do you know in general about the country Germany and it´s basketball? Have you had friends ball in Germany?

I know that Germany has high level basketball players and I believe it is quite a growing market in the country. I have a friend named Keyshawn Feazell playing for Bamburg Basket right now and they seem to be a high level team as well. He said he loves Germany and is having fun.

Are you aware that Germany is world champion at the moment?

Yes, the World Cup champs! Their coach for those games seemed extremely passionate in the clips I saw.

What has it been like playing for ERA Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL). It is almost always an automatic for this organization to win titles.

It’s a really fun play style and the Czech players have a confidence that I hadn’t seen before in European players. I’m enjoying it quite a lot.

What has been special for you personally so far playing for this organization. How do you feel that winning culture most?

It has been special for me being on the winning streak we’re on and sharing the ball like we do. Getting to visit Turkey and Greece for BCL was also a dope experience because they’re beautiful and unique places.

You have needed so adjustment period coming from the Romanian league. How would you compare the 2 national leagues of Czech Republic and Romania? It seems like Romania has a little more balance or not?

Well, I would say that they are similar in that Nymburk is sort of a historically more dominant version of Cluj in Romania. In Romania, Cluj is everyone’s superbowl and gets everyone’s best game. Whereas in Czech, Nymburk gets every team’s best because of their winning history.

The team has many talented players and are deep. Plus you have Nigheal Ceaser at your position. What exactly is your role on the team?

My role is making threes and impacting the game in any way that it’s needed. I can guard multiple positions but sometimes it looks like I can guard none, so my defense needs to improve.

What is it like battling JT Shumate on a daily basis? How do you guys make each other better?

He is extremely athletic and a high motor guy. Playing against him for me is mostly not trying to get run over. I love having him as a teammate.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?

I think my best comparison in the NBA may be a Max Strus or an Austin Reaves.

How would you describe your game? Is it fair to say you’re a player that can make an impact at both ends?

My game is mainly playing off what the defense gives, spacing the floor, and shooting. I am very capable of making an impact on both ends of the court, but I think my best is yet to come this season on both sides of the ball. I don’t think I’ve really shown my ability to defend as well as I can or rebound yet.

Talk about your strengths. What do you feel is your biggest strength on the court? Versatility has to be one of those?

Shooting is definitely my biggest strength, but yes I pride myself on being versatile and doing what is needed of me on any team I’m on. I am about winning above all other things.

You are a classic sniper. You shot 40% or better in the NCAA including a 48% season and shot at 41% in the ENBL. How far are you from being an elite shooter?

I think as I get more and more comfortable in the European play style I can find ways to get more three point attempts and that will qualify me as an elite shooter.

You’re a very good defender and shot blocker at 201cm.Talk a little about where your defensive game is now and to what level do you still want to bring it to?

My defensive game has not been as good as it was in college yet in Europe. Adjusting to referees and the amount of physicality has been a struggle for me at times because I am usually undersized when guarding power forwards. But, I think as I am able to find ways to be physical without fouling I will be able to have a greater impact defensively.

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

I am mostly working on becoming a more dynamic threat on offense and more consistent on defense.

Last season you played with CSO Voluntari (Romania-Liga Nationala) averaging 7.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 74.2%; and in the ENBL averaging 10.5ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT-1 (92.6%). What do you remember being your wake up call to being overseas where you knew you were far away from being from home?

Probably the first game we played against Cluj last year. We got beat at home and I was awful, missed a couple open threes and got subbed out for the remainder of the game for not following the scout on defense. I could really tell that I needed to be more focused and that it would take time to adjust after that game.

How vital was it for your game getting valuable playoff experience. You played 3 playoff rounds. What will you always remember from that first overseas post season?

I will never forget when Sibu came back and beat us in the playoffs. We were up something like 15 points with 2 minutes left, they turned up the pressure, and we started turning the ball over and lost. We ended up winning the series but I remember thinking after that game that you can really never get comfortable with a lead when playing professional basketball because players are so skilled that the game is hardly ever over.

You played 1 NBA Summer League game with the Toronto Raptors against the Warriors registering 6 minutes and 2 points. What kind of experience was that and what positives could you take from it?

I guess just being in that NBA environment was a positive. I loved the culture and work ethic of our practices and the resources that the players have at their disposal. It was some of my best cheerleading that summer despite our team struggling (:

You began at Walsh University (NCAA2) in 2019 playing 2 seasons and averaged 18.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 72.5% and 14.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 73.9%. You won 2 G-MAC titles. Which one was sweeter?

The first one was sweeter because I hadn’t experienced it yet and as a Freshman I thought it was so cool to be on such a successful team. Also, we got killed by Bellarmine in the tournament that year but it was better than the second because the tournament got canceled with COVID so we had no opportunity at all.

How vital was it playing for Jeff Young for your early basketball development? How did he steer you in the right direction for the NCAA?

It was very valuable to be able to play for Jeff Young, he really knows how to create a great basketball culture and win games.

You then played 3 seasons at The University of Toledo (NCAA)n averaging 11.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 67.2%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 82.3%, 15.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 48.2%, FT: 82.0%
and 16.0ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 86.7%. What memories will you always have from these 3 years?

I will always have the memories of my teammates. Made some of my best friends in college basketball and had some great times.

You had so many great games including 29 points in a 68-66 win over CMU, but also so many more like having 7 blocks against Ohio. What was your fondest moment on the court?

My fondest memory was my first year at Miami University in Ohio. I had only made a couple threes in that season at that point because I had more of a hustle role at first, but I was able to hit five threes in that Miami game and it really got me going with shooting at the division 1 level.

How did head coach Tod Kowalczyk groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

He definitely did, he is a great guy, great coach, and a pillar of the Toledo community. He is one of those coaches who is stubborn in what he wants to do but has a gifted offensive mind.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Setric Millner?

Me, you can ask him.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

Emoni Bates. He scored 30 in a half against us (we still won) and was simply unguardable with his height, confidence and shooting ability.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Ray J Dennis (Toledo), Seth Millner (Toledo), Caleb Canter (Walsh), Kade Bafford (Newark High School), and Sterling Christy (Walsh).

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

KD, Tracy Mcgrady, Kyrie, and Steph Curry.

Who is your GOAT and why?

Steph Curry because he is the most skilled basketball player of all time.

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

I never saw it but there’s no way it can do the first one justice.

Thanks JT for the chat.

Kyle Hines Wants To Be Remembered As Giving His Heart To The Game And Playing The Game The Right Way

In October 2010, I recorded my first interview with Kyle Hines (198-C-1986) leading up to the Frankfurt-Bamberg game in Bamberg. 14 years later, our interview count stood at 24. Who would of thought in 2010 that Kyle and I would have such a special player to Journalist relationship for so long. I mean I interview many guys more than once, but seldom as much as I did him. I don´t remember if I had met him in Bamberg at that game, but now remembering our meeting in Frankfurt in March of 2011, that may have been the first time we met. I just remember before the return game in Frankfurt, I was preparing my broadcast and Kyle came over to me during warm ups and shook my hands. This was his third professional season and he was already as professional as it gets. That professional mindset would continue until he retired. I unfortunately only saw him play live 3 times with the last time being in Munich in 2020. We always did our interviews on the phone and his voice is one that I will definitely never forget. After such an illustrious career like he had, it was only obvious that I would ask him if he had any ideas about writing a book. “I actually have started a book and am half way through it. The question is if I have enough energy or discipline to finish it. I have a story to tell. I think that especially younger players could learn from my path. I think that would help better their games”, stressed Kyle Hines. I have been covering basketball for more than 20 years as a journalist and play by play commentator and brought out a book earlier this year called “The Real basketball Deal”, It was only fitting that 1 chapter would be about Kyle Hines. His chapter is 81 entitled “A decade of interviews with Kyle Hines. In another chapter in the book, players reflect about my work in the basketball scene and he also gave his 2 cents about me. “Even if your focus on basketball is primarily in Germany, you have a huge knowledge of basketball in Europe which is seldom. Most journalists only know about the country they are in, but you have a huge IQ about basketball in Europe”. There is that immense professionalism of Kyle Hines again. After 16 professional seasons he has retired and wants to be remembered as giving his heart to the game and playing the game the right way.

I reach Kyle Hines on a Wednesday night at 10:15 pm as he is enjoying retired life in his home state of New Jersey. It was only logical that we would review his illustrious career that spanned more than 20 years since his senior year at Timber Creek Regional High School. He then proceeded to have a great NCAA career at University of North Carolina at Greensboro (NCAA) from 2004-2008 being a All-SoCon first team selection for 3 years and in his last 3 seasons averaged 20,0ppg and 8,0rpg. After playing at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) averaging 17.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.3apg, 2.3spg, 3.3bpg, FGP: 78.6%, FT: 72.7%, as well as having numerous NBA work outs and playing NBA Summer League with the Charoltte Bobcats, he opted to come overseas. It was his only option as for whatever reason his game didn´t appeal to NBA teams. He played his first 2 years in Italy with second division team Prima Veroli (Italy-Lega 2) where he averaged 17,0ppg and 8,0rpg and won 2 cup titles as well as helping the team move up to the Serie A. It was practically here where 2 future stars with him and head coach Andrea Trinchieri were born. It was in Italy also where his winning titles started. How did that first title compare with his Euroleague titles he would soon win? “Veroli was an important part of my early career. Being able to play for coach Trinchieri was vital as well. He taught me how to win and impact game in a positive way. Every title I won in my career had a different meaning. I think the titles with Veroli set the blue print for me to become a winning player”, stressed Kyle Hines. In Veroli he was a young buck and played with really talented players and of course there were guys here that really impacted him. “2 guys that stand out were American Jerome Allen who was an older guy and Afik Nissim. He was an Israeli national player. Both of them helped me make the transition to becoming a professional. I really appreciated them and learning to become a professional helped carry over for the rest of my career”, stated Kyle Hines. He then made the next step in his career and played a season in Germany with Bamberg winning the double. With the Bavarian team he averaged 12.9ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 64.3%, FT: 46.7%; in the Euroleague and in the German League averaged 10.4ppg, 4.6rpg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), FGP-3 (61.1%), 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 52.4%. In Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming had established himself as a top coach in Germany and was another key piece in the continued development of Hines as a player. “He was a big part of the success in Bamberg. He taught me how to accept a certain role and how to play it. Up to there, I had always been the main guy on my teams. At Bamberg there were many more talented players. He taught me to embrace my role and how to make an impact and win. It wasn´t so much about scoring for me anymore, but how to still have an impact and win games at a high level. He did a great job creating a system here where every player could be successful. It showed how guys would go to other places and continue to be successful”, added Kyle Hines. In Bamberg he had a massive list of great players to choose from as being the guy that impacted him most. “Casey Jacobsen had the biggest impact on me. I spent a lot of time with him and his family there. He was a veteran guy who had seen it all in Europe and NBA. He taught me a lot about how I should carry myself. Another guy that impacted me was forward Predrag Suput. He gave me a lot of secrets about how to play on the court and helped me to develop further. He was a very efficient player as an older guy. He helped me understand the game”, remembered Kyle Hines.

The winning of Kyle Hines continued in his next 2 years as he went to Greece to play with Olympiacos S.F.P. Piraeus (Greece-A1) and prompt won 2 Euroleague titles in a row as well as a Greek league title. He is unable to pick one that was sweeter, mainly because he helped write history in winning back to back titles. “Both were very special. We were only 1 team of 3 teams to ever win 2 Euroleague titles in a row. Being part of history meant a lot. We were part of a very special era and you can´t single one out. Both mattered the most”, explained Kyle Hines. In his 2 seasons in Greece, he averaged 9.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 57.6%; in the Euroleague and in the Greek League averaged 8.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 57.4%, FT: 64.4% while in his second season averaged 7.4ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 62.8%, FT: 61.1% in the Greek league and in the Euroleague averaged 9.4ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.2apg, Blocks-5 (1.2bpg), FGP: 60.5%, FT: 58.7%. It is incredible that it wasn´t always guys at his position that had the biggest impact on him, but also guys that played other positions like a Vassilis Spanoulis. But then again which player on earth wouldn´t be impacted by him? “I also spent a lot of time with him. He helped me become a top player at a top level. Every day I mimicked things that he did on and off the court. He taught me that you have to put in a lot of work at that level. It wasn´t just natural talent that helped him become a top point guard in Europe, but also the hard work he invested in himself each day”, warned Kyle Hines.

The top Euroleague player than played with CSKA Moscow from 2013-2020 and one can say this was his most successful time as he won 2 more Euroleague titles as well as 6 VTB league titles, 2 Gomelsky cups and 4 Euroleague Final 4 appearances. In his 6 years in Moscow, he continued to develop his game and become the ultimate leader on and off the court. He continued to demonstrate what it means to play one´s role to the fullest without putting up the major stats, but playing for the team on every possession. Was it fair to say that Moscow became his second home overseas? “ “I love Milan, but Moscow was a special place for me. It will always be in my heart, because I stayed there the longest. I think I was known most as a player in my time there. It was almost like my home city. I care so much for that organization. It was a very special time for my wife and I”, stated Kyle Hines. The great thing about his time in Moscow was that he played with so many great players, but also didn´t see guys come and go, but spent years together with them. It was only obvious that he couldn´t name just 1, 2 or 3 guys that impacted him most, but more than a hand full. “It really is very difficult to say that only 1 guy impacted me most. The first guy I have to name is Nando de Colo. We had a great bond and chemistry. I played 5 years with Milos Teodosic. We created great moments and plays. I had a great relationship with Sergio Rodriguez. He became a great friend. I also had a great relationship with Corey Higgins. I mean there were so many. Others were Aaron Jackson and Sonny Weems. I can go on and on”, expressed Kyle Hines.

His last stop on his legendary career was Milan and it was only clear that the winning wouldn´t stop there. In his 4 years in Milan, he proceeded to win 6 more titles with 3 league titles, 2 league cups and a Super Cup. He was part of a new generation in Milan where consistency with winning was brought back to the organization. “I really enjoyed being part of a new era of winning in Milan. I remember coach Messina telling me when I arrived, that he wanted to bring back success back to the organization. I also really enjoyed the relations I had with the people there. Milan was one of my favorite places. We built so much as a team and to be honest, it became a way better experience than I thought it could be”, commented Kyle Hines. To be able to win 6 titles in 4 seasons in the Serie A is no easy feat, but each season´s team showed that it was able to develop something very unique that always led to winning. “I think that our secret the last years was being able to deal with adversity and being able to rely on each other and build chemistry. You can´t forget that 2 of our league titles were achieved where we didn´t have home court advantage. To be able to win like that can only happen when you have a strong minded group. Coach Messina did a fantastic job preparing us to peak at the right moment”, added Kyle Hines. He played for many so great coaches including a Dusan Ivkovic, but he will always have a high regard for having balled for Ettore Messina. “He was like a teacher. I learned something new about the game and life every day. He didn´t only talk about the game, but also about life events. He helped me appreciate the game even more as I got older. He helped utilize my game in many ways within my role where I could still have an impact in many ways”, said Kyle Hines. He played with so many great players and saw how Shavon Shields developed into a top player and was able to be teammates with ex NCAA champion Shabazz Napier and believes that he will have an impact in Munich under world champion coach Gordon Herbert. “Shavon is the prefect testament of how a player can grow and reach the highest level. He began in Frankfurt and via Trento and Baskonia became a top 15 player in Europe. He used his opportunity everywhere to develop further and now is in his prime and one of the best players in Europe at his position. I think that Shabazz will have success there. You can´t forget that he hasn´t had a full season since coming overseas. He is healthy now and feeling more comfortable in Europe. He is one of the smartest players that I have been around in my career. He and Gordie will have a good connection. Gordie is used to coaching point guards like him”, stressed Kyle Hines.

The ex Bamberg player announced his retirement recently at age 38. His life is different now and he can finally focus on other things besides the day to day grind of a Euroleague player. “It has been fun to explore new opportunities. It also has been great spending more time with my family”, added Kyle Hines. He was at an age where he could retire, but could of still played longer, but he knew that it was time. “My goal was to go out on top. I think to make history in Italy and win 3 titles in a row was the right time to retire. It had always been my goal since 2008 when I was in Italy to win the Serie A title one day. My mom saw me win that Serie A title and that was really special. It was the first time my mom saw me play. Winning that last title and having my mom put an exclamation mark on my career. My body still feels great and I believe I could of played 2-3 more years. I always had taken good care of my body and developed good habits to have let me play as long as I did. Key was being able to retire on a positive note and not because of injury. I have 3 kids and don´t want to be limited after my playing days. I still want to be able to run and do things with my kids”, stated Kyle Hines. So what is the next step for him? “I want to remain in the game as much as possible. If that means in a management level, helping players or something within a league. I want to be involved with the game someway overseas teaching the game, sharing knowledge and learning more about the game. The great thing about sports is that there are so many different paths that make up the game”, warned Kyle Hines. He played 16 seasons playing 909 professional games and 397 Euroleague games. Did he accomplish all that her wanted to? “I thought I accomplished all I wanted to and more. When I started my pro career, I never would have thought that I would play in all these incredible places. I´m very happy and blessed how my career went. I wouldn´t have changed anything”, stressed Kyle Hines. At the moment he is the winningest American Euroleague player. Will that record ever be broken? “I think so. Records are meant to be broken. I hope a guy can win 5 titles”, expressed Kyle Hines. It is only obvious that his 5 best teammates of all-time were all his CSKA teammates with Milos Teodosic, Vassilis Spanoulis, Nando De Colo, Sergio Rodriguez and Corey Higgins. How would he like fans to remember him best? I think that just being remembered is an accomplishment. I always gave my heart for the game, respected the game and my teammates and just played the game the right way”, warned Kyle Hines. Thanks Kyle for so many great moments over the years. Your game and character will never be forgotten. Oh by the way, I´m sure our interview count won´t end at 24. I´m looking forward to number 25.

The Artland Dragons Have Many Weapons And Anthony Watkins Is One Of Them As He Has Fire In The Eyes And Ice In The Veins

Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Anthony Watkins in Frankfurt 2024

Anthony Watkins (194-PG-2000) is a 23 year old 194cm guard playing his second season with the Artland Dragons (Pro A). Last season with the Dragons he averaged 6.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 58.3%; In 2022-2023 he took a step back from the Pro A and played with BG Hagen (Germany-Regionalliga) averaging 21.6ppg, 6.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT: 65.1%. In the 2021-2022 season he played 14 games with the MLP Academics Heidelberg in the BBL. In 20-21 he played with the Basketball Loewen Braunschweig (Germany-BBL) playing 13 games. He scored 6 points in 11 minutes in a loss against Ludwigsburg. He has the German/American citizenship and lived in Chattanooga and attended McCallie High School before coming to Germany in 2019. In 2019-2020 he split time with the Basketball Loewen Erfurt (ProB) playing10 games averaging 3.6ppg. He also played with the OeTTINGER Rockets Gotha 2nd team (Germany-2.Regionalliga) and in in Jan.’20 moved to VfB 1900 Giessen Pointers (Regionalliga) playing 8 games averaging 10.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 66.7%, FT: 58.8%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big road win in Dresden.

Congrats on the huge 109-96 win against Dresden. Artland is 3-0. How good does it feel starting this well after last season?

I appreciate it! Starting like this is a great energy boost that we’ll be able to take with us deeper into the season. Last year showed how valuable every win is in a league like the Pro A, so we’re taking every W and valuing it at this point, while working towards getting the next one.

How big is this win? You won against a playoff type team like Dresden that is very disciplined.

Dresden is always a team that maximizes the talent they have on their roster. All of those guys are skilled and know what they need to bring to the table to put the team in the best position possible to win. Being able to pull out a win against them on the road gives me confidence that we can execute at a high level down the road.

It was the second shoot out win in a row. I´m sure coach and everyone knows relying on shootouts isn´t the best thing or could Artland be that kind of a team this season?

A shootout is great if you end up on the right side of it, but our aim is to be just as feared of a defensive team as offensive. We’ll get there.

The Artland Dragons led 60-56 at the break. Was this one of those games where defense just wasn´t on the menu?

I think our roster takes pride on the defensive end. Early in the season though, sometimes that pride and urge to get a stop can lead to the unit giving up easier looks than we’d like, but I see us gelling more day by day on that end of the floor.

The Artland Dragons led 84-74 after 3 quarters, but it could have been more. What was key for the big run and having better control of the game after 3 quarters?

I think it was a focus thing. As you said earlier, it was a shootout, so it’s easy to get caught up in the barrage of offense and forget that the key to the game is getting consecutive stops. We were able to come together as a unit with the help of Coach to buckle down and swing the game fully in our favor. It worked well for us this game, but in the future, our goal will be to hold that focus for 40 minutes. That’s what will be required of us when we need to win big games on the road down the line. The other teams are going to be getting sharper and more disciplined as the season progresses; we’ll have to follow suit.

How key were the many free throws by Buzz Anthony and points by Yasin Kolo before crunch-time? That seemed to give the Dragons a bit more breathing room?

Offensively I think we played to our advantage and put a lot of pressure on them by attack the paint with our athleticism from the outside and in transition. Yasin had to carry the mantle as our enforcer with Rob out that night and did his thing by being a force down low. The great thing about our team is that we have the depth and versatility to adjust our game according to our opponents’ strengths and weaknesses. I think that stretch in the game displayed that beautifully

How tough is it playing a team like Dresden that really lives with the small ball. What do you feel was key for 40 minutes for the win?

I think our team matches up well with it. Depending on the line up we could exploit mismatches inside as well as match their tempo and chase their shooters. Having that kind of variability on the roster definitely helps when you face a team like Dresden that likes to play smaller.

Obviously defensively there is a lot that the Dragons have to tweak. What is the biggest area?

Coach Vince’s philosophy is new to many of us. The majority of our team has been playing at a high level for a long time, so we’re still working on tweaking our habits and understanding how we each fit into his defensive scheme. The energy and effort is there, I believe we just need to continue practicing and getting comfortable with his philosophy. We’ve seen it work very well for us for stretches, so now we’re looking to build on that and become more consistent.

How enjoyable is this season compared to last season? It must seem like day and night?

Nobody likes to lose, especially not me, but I don’t want to take away from the odds we were able to overcome last season. It took heart, discipline, and focus to dig ourselves out of that hole and I’m proud of everyone who was a part of that. I’m most happy for the city that we were able to take the lessons from last year and get off to a much better start this year. They stood behind us through thick and thin, so to able to share the early success with them feels great. With all that being said, though, the season is young, and any response other than putting our foot on the gas more is the wrong one I think.

What has been the secret of the early success? Some guys went and there seemed a bit of turmoil weeks ago. But now it seems like all are on one page?

There was a lot of turn over here in the organization, so I think we all had to work through that and adjust to it along with the usual challenge of getting to know new teammates, coaches, plays, principles, etc. We have guys who are students of the game and willing to put in the extra time and work to make our team great, so I knew that it would pan out eventually the way we hoped. Our main focus now has to be understanding that the level of dedication it took to get to this point is going to be the same one required to stay there and travel beyond it. With the experience on our roster, I believe that is what we will give day in and day out.

How dangerous is it not to get too euphoric with the start? Is head coach Vincent Macaulay keeping all down on earth?

Our focus has been on the process since day one. There is no way for us to be where we want to be at this point in time. Of course, the wins feel good and have given us a boost to start the year, but we’re locked in on taking the daily steps necessary to be the best team we can possibly be by the time the final buzzer sounds for us this season. These are just a few of the concepts Vince has instilled in our group every day.

What has been the biggest strength so far to get through adversity early and begin 3-0?

The willingness to adjust. All of us have made adjustments to make this work and we will continue to do so. No one here is married to a brand of basketball outside of the one we’re building as a unit this year. I think that’s why every week has been a step forward. We also sought out some high-level competition in the preseason to expose just what needed to be adjusted, which I believe helped us make changes and grow early.

Brandon Thomas told me last week that he believes Buzz Anthony can be the best point guard in the Pro A. How valuable is Thomas? He is definitely one of the best if not the best 30 + players in the Pro A.

Buzz does a great job. He’s a warrior and a competitor. You love being on the court with guys who want to win and are willing to do the little things needed to do so. I’m not into comparisons, but I will say I’m glad to have him with us and to go to battle with him night in and night out. As for Brandon, I think what he did last season for us and how he’s started this year for us is just a testament to his willingness to hone in on the details of the craft. He does the little things some players with a resume like his might have the right to skip out on. His willingness to keep his skills sharp with extra work and take care of his body and mind make what he’s doing at this stage of his career possible. I think those unseen hours make both Brandon and Buzz great.

Is the word beast correct for Tajh Green. When you see his game what NBA player comes to mind?

I think that could describe him pretty well. For me, he’s lightning in a bottle and fits our scheme perfectly. We’ve been able to connect on a couple of electric plays so far this season and preseason and I’m positive there are more to come. He’s from Georgia like I am, so I’m not surprised to see him representing Peach State hoopers well out there. I see a lot of Pascal Siakam in his game. He has a lot of skill, but doesn’t let that carry him alone. He doesn’t turn his motor off for anyone, and I think that is separating him right now.

How valuable is it having another physical big man coming from the bench with Robert Ohle? He just seems to keep chugging along year by year?

It’s a huge luxury. Rob is an enforcer feared throughout the league. His ability to get extra possessions and wear opposing bigs down over the course of a game while being efficient will be valuable for us. We saw it last year when he had a monster double double against us when we played Bremerhaven on the road, and we see it daily in practice. His activity and experience will be instrumental to our team’s success this year.

Just how much of a true leader is Yasin Kolo. I think this may have been the team´s best pick up this season?

Yasin leads on a very personal level. He’s built a unique relationship with everyone on our team and it shows. He’s great at recognizing the strengths of others and tries to help them maximize those. I know we’ve had several conversations about how we can help one another be more effective on the floor and I think those talks are apparent when we step out there together.

Taylor Johnson was a late addition. He had a super game against Dresden. What has been your impression of him thus far?

Taylor is relentless and fearless. His willingness to attack and try to make something happen is what has gotten him to this point in his career. The energy he brings to the court and the support he gives me during timeouts or from the side when I’m on the court have helped me personally as well. His numbers against Dresden were great, especially the fouls he drew to get to the free throw line and force their coach to use more of his bench.

You’re playing your second season with the Artland Dragons. So far after 3 games you’re averaging 3 less minutes than last season. Is your role different from last season?

I don’t think it’s a fair comparison. We have over thirty games left on the schedule and are working to have the right to play even more after that. My focus is on nothing other than being prepared to do what is necessary for us to win when I’m on the floor, and off it for that matter. If that means playing over thirty minutes and scoring 15 plus, I’m prepared to do that and have proven myself capable of doing that at this level. If it’s going out and guarding the best player on the other team until I physically can’t anymore, then I’m prepared to do that. My focus is on winning. Last year put in me in a variety of situations just the same. I think anyone who watched the first five games of the season last year and watched the last five can attest to that fact. We’re winning, we’re working, we’re growing, and I know I’m impacting those wins just like everyone else. Thinking about anything other than taking steps forward every day I feel is a distraction at this point.

Your minutes have risen game by game. What kind of a relationship do you have with Vincent Macaulay? What kind of advice does he give you for helping your game?

Vince is a players’ coach. I think our relationship is growing by the day as well as his faith in and understanding of what I bring to the table for this team. I think his commitment to building those relationships on and off the court are the biggest benefit he brings not only to me, but to the entire organization as a whole.

How difficult is it coming off the bench and getting shots when the team is filled with so much offensive fire power?

I’m a natural scorer, so, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t seeking out opportunities to score within the offense when I’m on the floor, but I wouldn’t say there’s a lack of opportunity for me to do so. The beauty of our team is the fact the we have a lot of weapons, and I know that I’m one of them. I’m finding more opportunities to have an impact daily, and am going to be ready every time my number gets called.

What is your biggest goal this season for your game? What goals do you have in terms of your further basketball development?

Being me out there and enjoying it. This game is my outlet, my sanctuary. It’s a place where I can turn pain and other negative emotions into a joy I don’t quite get with anything else. My goal is to take in every rush I can and experience it fully. That sanctuary isn’t holy though if you don’t spend the time daily to care for it, so I’m staying dedicated to that process of becoming more efficient with my movements, more precise with my decisions, and balancing that rush with a sense of calm focus. Something I like to tell myself if that balance is ever of is “Fire in the eyes, Ice in the veins”.

You next play 0-3 Vechta. This is another game you should win, but obviously don´t want to underestimate them. How confident are you that the Dragons will win and give up less than 90 points?

It’s a young team looking for a win and a derby. We’ll need everyone focused and ready to play 40 minutes of Dragons basketball from the jump. I think if we can get off to the start we need to, especially on the defensive end with a hit first mentality, we’ll end up with another result we can be proud of. That all starts in practice though and it’s a process that is already in motion here in Quakenbrück.

Thanks Anthony for the chat.

That Wasn´t Steph Curry But Brandon Rush(BC Komarno) Netting 53 Points and Making 13 Three´s In A Game

Scoring 30 plus points is a massive feat in any league overseas and it is done more often than not, Scoring 40 plus points on the other hand doesn´t happen as often at least not in many top leagues in Europe. For example the record in Germany in the easycredit BBL dates back to 1988 when Keith Gray scored 65 points. But since 2000, there have only been 6 players to score 40 plus points. From 2003-2022, there were no games with 40 points or more, but in the 2023-2024 season 2 guys scored 40 with 42 Jonathan Stove and Otis Livingston. In lower leagues, you will see guys doing this every so often. However reaching that incredible 50 plus plateau is one where if a guy does achieve it, he in a class of his own. Last week a player in Slovakia netted 53 points with Brandon Rush (190-G, college: YSU). No it wasn´t the former NBA player Brandon Rush who won the NCAA title in 2008 with Kansas and wasn´t back to his old tricks, but another Brandon Rush by the same name. Rush was playing only his fourth pro game in Slovakia for BC Komarno. Scoring 53 points was one monumental part of that game, but his high flying performance also had another flavor to it all in that he dropped an amazing 13 three´s. Not only scoring 53 points in a pro game is rare, but making 13 three´s just as much. Not many pro´s can tell their grand-children that they scored 50 plus points and hit as many three´s in a game as possibly the greatest shooter of all-time with Steph Curry who did it in 2017 against the Pelicans. Rush had no idea about tying Curry until I told him. “That is crazy. I did not know that. I was just happy to beat my personal best with 10”, said Brandon Rush.

The Ohio native had a weak third game in Slovakia scoring 3 points on 1/5 shooting. To be able and rebound like that in the next game and score 50 points more shows just what is possible in game of basketball. “After coming off of a 3 point game my mentality was just to improve and do better than I did in that performance. I wanted to hit my shots, make plays on offense and defense and just overall exceed my potential and I did just that by scoring 53 points”, stressed Brandon Rush. He got going pretty early, but couldn´t have done it without the support of his teammates. “That day, along with every day I believed anything was capable of going in as long as I have God on my side. I think how my teammates supported me at halftime and hyped me up made me realize what a monumental moment that was for my career”, stated Brandon Rush. Of course it was vital that he continued to grind in the lab the week before the game, but a coaching change didn´t hurt either. “. We actually got a new coach that week in training and did new drills and this for sure helped. He also helped change the dynamic of the team a significant amount and helped us play with much more self-confidence”, commented Brandon Rush. Was the new born sniper even aware how many points he had in the fourth quarter? “To be honest, I had no idea how many points I had. I’m sure there was people counting but I was unaware until after the game when my teammate Nuke came up to me and yelled and said I had just scored 53 points”, commented Brandon Rush. The most points that he had score before his 53 point explosion was 36 points in a NCAA game against Wagner. Can he describe how tough it truly is to score 53 points? “I did all of the hard work my whole life to be able to do what I did. Once I got in a rhythm everything just came so naturally and I started playing with a different type of confidence. This was the biggest moment in my life. It is a surreal part and memory I can have forever”, added Brandon Rush. So will he have the duty of having to take his teammates out to eat? “I will for sure have to buy my teammates dinner or something. I would not have had that success without them so I owe that accomplishment to them in a way”, warned Brandon Rush. The rookie is thrilled about playing for BC Komarno and surely the fans will accept to see many more great games by him this season. “It could not be more of a positive experience so far. For such a small city everyone is so supportive and so welcoming to me which makes it so much easier to just play with ease and feel like I’m at home”, said Brandon Rush. He also didn´t have to wait long for his first overseas wake up call in Slovakia. “My wake up call that I was far from home was just my first week that I got here. Just the different culture and different time zones was a shock for me but Komarno could not have made it any easier for me with their hospitality and helpfulness for being a foreigner”, remembered Brandon Rush.

The 190cm guard who lists Tyrese Naxey from the University of Kentucky as his toughest opponent so far in his basketball career and Dwayne Cohill (YSU), Malek Green (YSU), Josh Irwin (YSU), Adrian Nelson (YSU) and Elijah Williams (FDU as his 5 best teammates of all-time began his basketball career with Warrensville Heights High School averaging 20ppg, 6rpg, 2apg. He then played at Fairleigh Dickinson University playing a total of 76 NCAA games in 3 years. In his freshman year he averaged 4.8ppg, 1.2rpg, but his game really took off in his last 2 seasons as he averaged 14.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 73.9%and 14.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 83.5%. “My second year there FDU taught me how to work with talented players around me and my third year there taught me how to handle the pressure of being the number one option on the team”, said Brandon Rush. One of his fondest moments was netting 36 points against Wagner where he showed his explosive scoring ability. “For me the most everlasting memory that comes from this is stopping them from winning the regular season and knowing that I had a big part in doing so”, added Brandon Rush. In his last 2 years he scored in doubles figures in 35 of 48 games and also scored 34 points against SFC. He then moved to Youngstown State University (NCAA) averaging 13.9ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 79.4% and 11.7ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 83.7%. He was very consistent once again and really benefited in the system of head coach Jerrod Calhoun. “Playing at Youngstown State University under Coach Calhoun matured me as a player in my years there. I learned how to become the scorer I am today at YSU and playing there taught me how to see and read the game like I never knew before”, remembered Brandon Rush. One of his greatest moments there was Reaching the NIT, but losing to Oklahoma State. “We had a home game against Oklahoma State. Even though we did not win and it put an end to the season, to this day it is the best atmosphere in basketball I have ever played in. I get chills thinking about it. I still rewatch videos from that game to reminisce the feeling of the whole community coming out in support of us that day”, said Brandon Rush. He scored in double figures in 44 of 66 games and scored 32 points against Ohio Christian and 30 points against Oakland. He was a All-Horizon League Third Team member in 2023.

The ex NCAA player who has Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Stephen Curry on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore and Lebron James as his GOAT wants to continue to showcase his unique skills and consistency in Slovakia. He is an aggressive guard that has similarities in his game to a Damien Lillard. He was so consistent in the NCAA and it´s no secret that he wants that to continue at the pro level. “I believe that my consistency in the NCAA came from all of my hard work that I did all throughout my career since I stepped on the court. I would not be where I am today without all of the hours of hard work and trainers I had that pushed me and most importantly my father”, warned Brandon Rush. But it isn´t only his scoring, rebounding and shooting that stands out, but he is a very athletic player that can also be an impact player on the defensive end. “Right now I am a good on ball defender and I am striving to become a better off ball defender and be more aware and work on that side of defense”, said Brandon Rush. His three pointer has always been a work in progress, but after shooting 13/17 from down town, he is now sprouting with unending self-confidence. “Yes, my three-pointer shot is always a work in progress. It can always improve. There is always room to get better and up the stats. I think going 13/17 from three that game just set my standard that I should strive to reach each and every game now”, stressed Brandon Rush. He continues to be very focused and always in the lab. He knows exactly what he needs to improve right now so he can make the next step in his game. “Right now in my game, I would say my focus is on making the right passes at the right times and my decision making. Those are two aspects I can improve on, along with making my teammates better each and every day”, warned Brandon Rush. It will be interesting to see how his rookie season continues and where his journey will continue in the next years. One thing is for sure, he will surely continue to climb the basketball ladder up to higher levels. He can also be very blessed to not only be playing the game he loves, but live with the fact that he once scored 50 plus points game and has made as many three´s as Steph Curry. It will definitely never be boring when he is telling stories at family gatherings.

Buzz Anthony(Artland Dragons)  Knows They Are Playing Well With A Sense Of Urgency But Have To Keep Getting Better

pic credit: Artland Dragons

Buzz Anthony (180-PG-1998, college: RMC) is a 26 year old 180cm point guard playing third professional season and second in Germany and first with Pro A team Artland Dragons. Last season he split time with KB Bashkimi Prizren (Kosovo-Superliga) averaging 11.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.3apg, 1.8spg, in Nov.’23 moved to Artland Dragons (Germany-ProA) averaging 11.8ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-2 (6.8apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 83.2%. He played his rookie season with the Uni Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA) averaging 14.2ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-1 (7.3apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT-2 (92.6%). He began his basketball career with Archbishop Spaulding High School and then played 5 seasons with Randolph-Macon College (NCAA3). He spoke to germanhoops.com after the huge 109-96 win over the Dresden Titans.

Congrats on the huge 109-96 win against Dresden. Artland is 3-0. How good does it feel starting this well after last season?

Winning is better than losing. It really pays to be a winner. I want to always play to a good standard of basketball. I think that it is easier to come together as a team when your winning. It is really good to see the guys buying in already so early in the season.

How big is this win? You won against a playoff type team like Dresden that is very disciplined.

They made us pay with some mistakes. They shot the ball really well. We are still trying to find our identity to see what we are really good at. Our defense still isn´t tight, but what is good that we can able to answer off mistakes and make plays.

It was the second shoot out win in a row. I´m sure coach and everyone knows relying on shootouts isn´t the best thing or could Artland be that kind of a team this season?

We definitely have offensive talent. I feel like good offense can beat good defense at this level. If we want to reach the next level and be a contender than we have to be able to win in the 60s and 70s and when it gets ugly. We have been able to already lock in this season and prove we can win.

The Artland Dragons led 60-56 at the break. Was this one of those games where defense just wasn´t on the menu?

Defense was a major topic at halftime. I´m really proud how guys found solutions after they scored. We want to be a better defensive team. We definitely don´t want to rely on outscoring teams every week. We want to have an identity where we are better well rounded.

The Artland Dragons led 84-74 after 3 quarters, but it could have been more. What was key for the big run and having better control of the game after 3 quarters?

Were up 12-15 points twice in the game. We have to show a sense of urgency on every possession., Learning to win and dominate at the Pro A level is difficult. The Pro A level has much talent and teams that know how to make plays. We could of done a better job of extending our lead and secure it earlier, but we let them climb back twice.

How key were the many free throws by you and points by Yasin Kolo before crunch-time? That seemed to give the Dragons a bit more breathing room?

Yes it was. Dresden is a team that will foul early, because they have a lot of trust in their three point shooting. They foul early and try to get 1 point more off 2 free throws with a three pointer. That is how they think that they can come back. We were still able to execute. Yasin was big in his minutes.

How tough is it playing a team like Dresden that really lives with the small ball. What do you feel was key for 40 minutes for the win?

I think that we have taken good steps to be able to take advantage of our spacing. Being able to put a Brandon Thomas in the post at times while other guys can drive and getting to the free throw line has been a good step that we have taken. We attack teams well and have well balanced scoring and guys that have confidence. Our good spacing allows guys to have more options.

Obviously defensively there is a lot that the Dragons have to tweak. What is the biggest area?

The biggest thing is being in 2 places with the help and the closeout. We have to also finish possessions better and rebound better. It is difficult on three´s when the ball comes off harder and longer. At the end of the game Dresden played with more sense of urgency and we gave up too many offensive rebounds and couldn´t secure the game faster. We have to be more disruptive.

How enjoyable is this season compared to last season? It must seem like day and night?

Joy is an interesting thing. The joy last year was getting it coming out of a battle and this season you find fulfillment each day. There is joy this season playing with new guys, scoring a lot and playing an exciting style

What has been the secret of the early success? Some guys went and there seemed a bit of turmoil weeks ago. But now it seems like all are on one page?

The success is that everyone buys into the system. We have the right guys on the bus. We have a good group of guys that want to play coaches style. Our success also has come from having many veteran players and guys that have had success in other places. We have to continue to play well and flip the page. We are playing well with a sense of urgency, but have to keep getting better

How dangerous is it not to get too euphoric with the start? Is head coach Vincent Macaulay keeping all down on earth?

It is important to echo what goes on in the locker room and what we do in practice. Each team practices each day, but what separates us from the others will be our output. Coach does a good job watching many games so he can prepare us best with his scouting.

What has been the biggest strength so far to get through adversary early and begin 3-0?

I think a certain consistency of some players that one hadn´t expected it from has been key. I feel confident they show up every day and that also makes the group confident. I like consistency and security has helped guys find their roles easier. Finding spark plus has made us more dynamic and helped our depth a lot.

Brandon Thomas told me last week that he believes you can be the best point guard in the Pro A. How valuable is Thomas? He is definitely one of the best if not best 30 + players in the Pro A.

He is the epitome of a pro. He is awesome. I have this funny video of him shooting with a broken ball machine. It takes 3-4 bounces of the ball to get to him. But despite the machine being broken, he is still there doing his routine and working on his shot. His day to day approach is great and he still plays at a high level. He has a good connection to the guys and he listens well. He also asks good questions and simply produces on and off the court.

Is the word beast correct for Tajh Green. When you see his game what NBA player comes to mind?

I would rather call him relentless or continual. He is great on the offensive glass and never stops. He is real fun to watch. He is very versatile that can switch, can shoot the 3, create off the dribble and catch the lob pass.

How valuable is it having another physical big man coming from the bench with Robert Ohle? He just seems to keep chugging along year by year?

Robert is great. He does a great job taking care of his body. I remember it always being a battle against him and Bremerhaven. Now I´m glad that we wear the same jersey. He sets good screens and I saw it in practice. That reminded me how it was to play against him. He is another player that has been consistent in the last years. You always know what you will get from him.

Just how much of a true leader is Yasin Kolo. I think this may have been the team´s best pick up this season?

Yes he is. He has a lot of experience. He has played in many places and brought a nice flavor to the team. He and Brandon Thomas aren´t the typical players that you will see in the German spots. We are still figuring out our court relationship. He likes to pop. What really stands out is that he knows how to use his body well.

Taylor Johnson was a late addition. He had a super game against Dresden. What has been your impression of him thus far?

I like Taylor a lot. He came from a winning place having won 2 titles in England. He is super focused on winning. He is very consistent and doesn´t try to do too much. He has fit in well. His communication with teammates and finding his spots have been his biggest assets.

You had a solid game with 20/8 but 6 turnovers. How much do those turnovers bother a point guard in general?

The 6 turnovers definitely hurt last game. It is like getting stabbed in the basketball soul. I feel like if the turnover was a good action and the right pass was made and it was a half meter off, then I can sleep well. The bone head plays are harder to rewatch. I watch it like 10 times and think what was I thinking. My teammates are supportive and keep saying to be aggressive and keep making plays. It is nothing toxic. I hope I won´t have too many more 6 game turnovers. The guys know that I try to do my all to get them the best advantage to score.

You came late last season and averaged 11/3/8. The team has more depth and scoring power this season. Will your role as a point guard change any?

I see myself having a high assist year. I really enjoy playing with different weapons. I want to have more efficiency. I think it is important to always have energy and have self-confidence so when crunch-time comes, I will be ready to take over. I want to be able to score the ball and make big plays and also transition more into a leader this season and help us get better. I also want to keep building my relationship with coach where we have extra meetings so we can continue to understand each other better. So when the fourth quarter comes, our minds are the same and we can make adjustments.

With so much scoring power, could you possibly have the best assist average in your career?

I see why not. I love to pass the ball. We have a lot of players that are so versatile offensively that will really help my playmaking.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Troy Cracknell?

We haven´t played yet, but I think I will challenge him when he returns from injury. I believe I would have the slight nudge.

Thanks Buzz for the chat.

Spencer Reaves´s Clutch Shooting Leads The Syntainics MBC Past The Frankfurt Skyliners 79-69

After a tough defensive battle and bitter loss in Bamberg, the Frankfurt Skyliners returned back home sprouting a 1-1 record. Frankfurt is a relatively young team and are still finding themselves while showcasing a explosive guard duo with Try Calvin and Malik Parsons. They welcomed 0-3 team MBC, but they had to be ready as this club was reeling for that first win. The club from Weissenfels was still searching for their defensive identity and rhythm as in the last 2 games had allowed an average of more than a 100 points. Ex Skyliner Akeem Vargas was back in his old living room while John Bryant was also on the floor which is always a delight to observe since you never know how much longer a 37 old can play. MBC needed a big reaction in Frankfurt and had it really buckling down on defense having a night and day reaction in comparison to the last game against Rostock winning 79-69. It also didn´t hurt getting a precision shooting day from sniper Spencer Reaves (191-SG-1995, college: Central Mo.) and a great game from veteran 36 year old Tyren Johnson who filled the stat sheet like a young buck. “We knew that we needed a reaction. We came into the game as the most efficient offensive team, but also gave up the most points in the league. It was really important for us to hold Frankfurt to 69 points. We defended very well and were very physical in the paint area”, stressed MBC guard Spencer Reaves. The Frankfurt Skyliners had good stretches in the game, but for the most part had to play catch up basketball. They were in it in crunch-time, but a costly turnover and an offensive rebound and put back from MBC paved the road for the guests to the win. “We didn´t play with enough energy and they played harder. Our communication wasn´t good on defense. We have to move the ball better so we can find better ways to execute and find better shots”, stressed Garai Zeeb.

Ed Croswell at the FT line

On a cool Sunday afternoon only 3,500 fans came out to support the Frankfurt Skyliners. Frankfurt got on the board first with a bucket from American Ed Croswell in the paint and gave Frankfurt the 3-0 advantage. But that didn’t phase the guests as they raced on a lethal 7-0 run as Tyren Johnson added 5 points with a three pointer and American Ty Brewer who played at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (NCAA) made a big dunk after getting a steal. Sniper Spencer Reaves showed that he can do a lot more than just shoot to make an impact as he made an offensive rebound and steal in the run. “We wanted to crash the boards and play tough defense”, stated Spencer Reaves. Frankfurt came back getting 2 baskets inside from ex Alba Berlin center Lorenz Brenneke and Lithuanian big man Einaras Tubutis as Frankfurt opted to attack inside with the bigs and were successful as Frankfurt led 10-8. But the guests got the lead back and held it after one quarter with 15-14. Weissenfels also attacked the paint getting baskets from American Charles Callison who played at Washington State University (NCAA) and German Aleksa Kovacevic who got a quick back door pass from Big man and 2 time BBL MVP John Bryant who continues to be a very underrated passer.”Bryant is a legend. It is always cool to paly against him. He still does little things that helps a team”, stressed Garai Zeeb. Ivan Tkachenko who last played with SC Prometey Kamianske (Lat-Est BL) showed his athleticism making a thunderous dunk. “Both teams didn´t shoot well. We couldn´t find a flow on offense, so we tried to reward ourselves on the defensive end”, stated Spencer Reaves.

David Muenkat fro 3

In the second quarter the Syntainics MBC took control of the game executing better on offense and tightening up better on defense to lead 39-28 at half-time. The guests raced out on a 9-0 run to extend their lead to 23-15. In the lead it was Spencer Reaves doing what he does best which is shooting out the lights as he made a trey, lay in and free throw while John Bryant also made a lay in. Frankfurt weren´t moving well without the ball which didn´t allow good ball movement. Frankfurt opted for 1-1 play and were shut down well by the physical MBC defense. Ex Augsburg (NCAA3) guard Booker Coplin stopped the run with a timely three pointer, but MBC still led 23-18. Reaves continued to be super aggressive and scored 5 unanswered points all scored on free throws as Frankfurt trailed 29-18. Frankfurt then got some energy with Tubutis free throws and a clutch trey from Canadian David Muentkat as Frankfurt continued to chip away, but still trailed 29-23. But on this day, Frankfurt would have little opportunities to show their consistency as up and down could have been their middle name. The Syntainics MBC closed out the second quarter in a potent manner going on a 10-5 run to have the comfortable lead at the break. MBC showed that they could get suitable support from many guys as Ivan Tkachenko supplied 5 points from the bench with a trey and easy lay in as Frankfurt couldn´t stop his speed as their 1-1 defense continued to be non existent. Reaves sunk a catch and pop three pointer and Johnson chugged to the rim and scored a lay in as his big body gave Frankfurt problems all day to contain. “Frankfurt is very good at starting their possessions. We did a good job exploiting the switches to get the defense moving. That makes it tougher to generate ball movement. We tried to throw extra wrinkles when they switched”, stated Spencer Reaves. The Syntainics MBC shot 46% from the field and 24% from outside and had 16 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 32% from the field and 36% from outside and had 17 rebounds and 10 turnovers.

John Bryant with the tap in

In the third quarter the Frankfurt Skyliners showed a reaction early, but couldn´t get over the hump as Weissenfels led by 7 points after 30 minutes despite it being Frankfurt´s best scoring quarter with 25 points. Frankfurt began with a lightening 8-0 run as ex Wright State (NCAA) guard Trey Calvin and ex Ulm big Christoph Philipps made back to back three´s and Coplin made a lay in as Frankfurt trailed 39-36. Johnson and Coplin then traded three´s and Calvin made a pull up jumper to dead lock the game at 42-42. Coplin continued to be hot stroking home another three pointer as Frankfurt led 45-44. But Frankfurt couldn´t play more consistent defense as they allowed a brutal 10-2 run by Weissenfels as they led 54-47. In the run it was the Bryant and Reaves show as their veteran leadership and production sparkled. You just can´t go wrong with Reaves shooting ability and Bryant´s high IQ. In the run, Reaves nailed 2 three´s while Bryant made a tap in off a pretty Reaves lob pass and Brewer made a lay in. “MBC does a good job to find Reaves. He moves very well without the ball. One second he has the ball and then it´s in the basket again”, expressed Garai Zeeb. Frankfurt kept fighting and got some vital baskets from ex Schwenningen center Jacob Knauf who scored with his left hand inside and Parsons made a lay in to cut MBC´s advantage to 59-53. Frankfurt turnovers down the stretch didn´t help their come back attempt trailing 60-53. “We came out sloppy and let our offense effect our defense in a negative way. If you give Frankfurt the chance to execute their offense, then they will. We have to limit them more in their offense. But we did a good job fighting back and keeping the lead”, added Spencer Reaves. “We had a good start, but couldn´t hold the energy. We weren´t consistent enough”, said Garai Zeeb. The Syntainics shot 51% from the field and 40% from the three point line and had 19 rebounds and 11 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 44% from the field and 47% from outside and had 24 rebounds and 5 turnovers.

Ty Brewer at the FT line

The Syntainics MBC continued to keep the lead in the fourth quarter and just did a good job managing their lead and executing well at both ends. Coplin began the fourth quarter with a thunderous dunk from the wing and Johnson made a lay in as Weissenfels led 62-55. Ed Croswell then scored on transition as Frankfurt trailed 62-57. Frankfurt then made 2 big stops packing the zone well, but couldn´t execute on offense. Ex Georgia Institute of Technology (NCAA) guard Michael Devoe then made a clutch three pointer for the 65-58 lead. But Frankfurt never gave up but continued to fight and defended aggressively and got 2 key baskets from Tubutis as Frankfurt trailed 67-62. After free throws from German Martin Breunig, Frankfurt connected with a Croswell lay in and Tubutis free throw to trail only 69-65. After a clutch 20 footer from Johnson, Frankfurt gót key input from Try Calvin as he scored twice inside to trail only 72-69 with 1,52 to play. Frankfurt was ready to make their move, but instead the turning point of the game came from the guests and not from Frankfurt. Breunig stole the ball from Coplin and Coplin made a flagrant foul at the 1,19 minute mark. Breunig made the free throw and then made a vital offensive rebound and put back for the 75-69 lead with 1,05 to play. “I was so tired at that point. Frankfurt always found ways to get close again. I was quick on the steal and anticipated well”, said Martin Breunig. That turn of events had totally paralyzed Frankfurt as the guests closed out the game with a 4-0 run as Callison made a lay in and Breunig scored again on transition to seal the win. “The turnover and offensive rebound and score was the turning point. We couldn´t make plays on offense or defense against Rostock, but today we could. You have to be able to play defense on the road and didn´t let the crowd get to us”, stated Spencer Reaves. “You can´t blame Booker on that play. It was just bitter that it happened at the end”, said Garai Zeeb. The Syntainics MBC were led by Spencer Reaves with 20 points while Tyren Johnson added 18 points while the Frankfurt Skyliners were led by Malik Parsons and Booker Coplin who had 13 points a piece. The Syntainics MBC shot 46% from the field and 36% from outside and had 27 rebounds and 12 turnovers while the Frankfurt Skyliners shot 48% from the field and 38% from outside and had 33 rebounds and 21 turnovers.