Malik Miller is a 26 year old 192cm guard from Washhington DC playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen(Holland-DBL). He played his rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. He began his basketball career at Friendship Tech Prep Academy. He then played at Morgan State University(NCAA) from 2018-2023 playing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.
Thanks Malik for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
It’s been really good. I love the city and culture. It’s really been fun to play here. My best experience has been the home games, the crowd is amazing!! They really are into the game as much as the players.
Last season as a rookie you played in Denmark. What are the biggest differences between Denmark and Holland on and off the court?
The biggest difference is the physicality on the court. The refs let you play a little more. And off the court it’s pretty much similar, the city just has more people and it’s more things to do.
The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again?
It’s extremely important, I have great teammates and coaches, none of us have egos and we all have one goal which is to win. We understand the history of this club and we want to help get back to where it once was. We have the team to do it!
What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. As a guard how has he helped your game move forward this season?
It’s been great, the fact that he is American makes it way better because we can relate to a lot of things. But the way he coaches and how he holds us accountable which is really huge for our morale. He’s been helping my game a lot which has been one of the biggest takeaways I have honestly, he always sends film on the moves he teaches me so I can study it and see how effective it is to use it.
You’re a player that can do everything at both ends. What exactly is your role on the team?
My role is to impact the game on every level so that I can help my team get the win.
Let´s talk more about your game. You’re a 192cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description?
I would compare it to Jrue Holiday who is a really great defender, who can do a little bit of everything.
You’re an incredible versatile player. Where was your versatility born as a player?
I think it was born when I was around 8/9 years old and I played with all the older kids at the park. In order for me to get picked up I had to do whatever it took to impact my team winning and not be a liability.
What stands out at first is your high rebound totals for a guard. You averaged 8,0rpg in your last 3 years at Morgan State and 7,0rpg as a rookie. What is the secret to your good rebounding and what are your goals with rebounding in the next seasons as you move up the basketball ladder?
I wouldn’t say I have a secret, but I just have a knack for the ball. I’m also always in the right spot a lot of the time as well. My goal is to continue to keep being effective with being a rebounding guard especially since I know a lot of guards aren’t rebounding at this rate.
Your also a guy that does it at both ends of the court. Would you classify yourself as a 2-way player now?
Yes I would definitely consider myself that. I take pride in being that.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?
I would describe it as being as being a safety on the football field, regarding to the fact that I have high anticipation skills and quick feet with good physicality. I am a good one-on-one defender and a very good off ball defender as well. However I would like to become a defender that knows how to use my physicality without fouling.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now as you continue to want to improve your game?
I’ve been really focusing on improving my 3pt shot and ball handling. Also becoming a better pick n roll player.
You played your rookie season with the Svendborg Rabbits (Denmark-BasketLigaen) averaging 12.0ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.4apg, SPG-4(2.4), FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 69.0%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie where you knew that you were far away from home?
My wake up call was me not being able to see my daughter. That was and still is the toughest thing for me.
You lost a tough final series against Bakken, but won a exciting series against Randers where the last 2 games weren´t decided by more than 4 points. What will you always remember from that series?
I’ll always remember how one of their players posted something on instagram about us and we took that as the utmost disrespect. So we stuck together game by game, we never got too high or too low because we knew they had some good players but we also knew how good our team was.
You played at Morgan State(NCAA) from 2018-2023. How valuable was playing that fifth season? How did your game grow that one last step there?
It was extremely important that was my breakout season where I gained the most confidence from my game. It made me grow a lot. I had to step up big time for us. I worked on my weaknesses day in and day out and it showed.
You had many incredible games in the NCAA like having a buzzer beater against Temple, having a triple double against PS Wilkes Barre, almost having a triple double against PS Gtr Allegh and having a 32/12 game against SC State. What was your fondest moment there on the court?
Those were some great moments, however my best moment was when I scored my 1000th career point at home.
How did head coach Kevin Broadus groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
He always held me accountable and pushed me to be better. Coach Chretch really prepared me though, he did so many little things for that took my game to another level my senior year. He challenged me off the court as well and he always made me be
Who won a 1-1 in practice, you or Isaiah Burke?
Unfortunately we never really played with just us 2, we would do king of the court with a couple other teammates.
Your biggest influence is Lebron James and you have a engineering degree. How would you like to give back to the community one day?
I would love to do a lot for my community, I would like to host annual Christmas giveaways, thanksgiving food drives, back to school events, and free basketball camps. I pray I’m able to do those things in the future!
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?
I’m not sure if he made the NBA or not but he was really tough, I’ll say Phil Booth from Villanova.
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time?
This a tough one I had a lot of great teammates but I have to go with the teammates I grew up with so I’m going with Derrick Love, Taron Oliver, Isaiah Burkes, Lagio Grantsaan, and De’Torrian Ware
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
This is my Mount Rushmore in no specific order but Steph Curry, LeBron James, Michael Jordan, and Shaq
The first thing that really stood out when I examined the career of overseas rookie Phillip Russell (178-PG-1999, college: VCU) was that he had balled at not 1 not 2 and not even 3 NCAA schools, but at 4. That is something that is extremely rare. But then after closer inspection, something else became rather interesting to me right away and that was that he had balled at Vashon High School in St louis. Since I have covered thousands and thousands of players in my life, remembering high schools isn´t actually simple, but with Vashon it was. Simply because I covered former Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney very closely for years when he balled in Germany and I just remember him being a stand out player there. The school´s most famous sports alumni has to be the boxing brother champs Michael and Leon Spinks and ex NBA player Elston Turner. Mckinney was never as famous as them, but he had a great career there and overseas as he began his overseas career almost 19.5 years ago. Russell not only won a high school title at Vashon like Mckinney did, but also played for him and will never forget him. “I have a close relationship with Jimmy McKinney. He was my high school coach he’s a wonderful role model for me. I was not aware that he began his career in Germany that’s sweet”, stressed Phillip Russell. Ex Jimmy Mckiney student Phillip Russell is playing his rookie season overseas in Germany with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim and loves sharing the ball and seeing everybody eat.
The guard who lists Muhammad Ali as his GOAT and current Phoenix Sun Jalen Green as his toughest cover in the NCAA was born on Feb 2, 1999 in St Louis, Missouri. As a senior at Vashon he averaged 15.7ppg, 4.5apg, 2.8rpg and won a HS MSHSAA Missouri Class 3 title in 2019. He began his NCAA career at Saint Louis University (NCAA) averaging 2.1ppg, 1.1apg during Covid. He only played 8 games. Even if he hardly played, the experience was a part of his journey that prepared him for his next steps. “The experience was wonderful I learned a lot just sitting down & watching. And it also brought a hunger to me that will never go away”, warned Phillip Russell. His journey then continued at Southeast Missouri State University (NCAA) where he played 2 seasons averaging 13.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 73.3% and 18.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 5.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 36.3%, FT: 79.9%. He made a big jump in his game. He was so fortunate being able to play for Brad Corn. “He was the main key just trusting me allowing me to make mistakes my first year not giving up on me. And just trusting me in running the show. He saw the work that was put it in during offseason and we just had that sit down before the year & came to an agreement”, remembered Phillip Russell. He turned into a lethal NCAA scorer scoring in double figures in 53 of 63 games and had 37 point explosions against UALR, 35 points against SIUE and 30 points against Tennessee State. He also went to the bIg Dance for the first time beating Tennessee Tech to win the OVC title. He continued to be hungry for new challenges and then played a season at the University of Texas at Arlington (NCAA) averaging 14.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 4.4apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 84.6%. This was another huge step in his basketball development. “It built my character & helped me look in the mirror”, remembered Phillip Russell. There he scored in double figures in 16 of 22 games and had 30 points against SF Austin and 28 points against the Air Force. He wasn´t done yet as he moved on one more time and played a season at Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA) for Ryan Odom averaging 10.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 81.3%. He won the Atlantic 10 title beating GMC and then played at March Madness losing to BYU. “It was a great season. I had so much fun and it showed me what winning can do for you. Coach Odom told me he can trust me & bet on myself”, said Phillip Russell who remembers beating Joe Bamisile in daily 1-1 battles. He scored 26 points against St Bonaventure and 25 points against Loyola, Il.
The 178cm point guard who lists Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Kyrie Irving on his personal NBA Mount Rushmore is playing his rookie season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim. Even if he is a rookie, he has brought so much experience having played at 4 different schools in the NCAA. “I do not feel like a rookie. I’ve been playing this game my entire life I know that I’m ready to make an impact right away & lead to the best of my ability”, stated Phillip Russell last summer. He found eye to eye last summer with players coach Igor Perovic when he first had contact. “The talks went wonderful with coach Igor Perovic. He told me what it was straight forward and what he needed from me in the offseason I appreciate most of him taking a chance on me as I start my rookie career”, said Phillip Russell. Currently Kirchheim is battling for a playoff spot as it is resting in 7th place with a record of 9-7. Despite being a rookie, he has displayed his leadership skills early on. He also has needed no adjustment period as he is averaging 17,1ppg, 2,6rpg, 3,6apf and 1,1spg while shooting a very respectable 40% from the parking lot. He is a player that loves to create and compares his game to defensive minded NBA player Jose Alvarado and can just do so much at both ends. “Versatility is huge in my game. I’m big on winning & I feel sharing the ball seeing everybody eat brings a team closer”, expressed Phillip Russell. This season he has scored in double figures in 14 of 16 games and struck 20 points or more 5 times including 29 points in a win against Artland and 23 points a piece against Cologne and Turbingen. Another big part of his game is his three point shooting. He averaged 36% in his last 3 NCAA seasons and wants to continue to develop overseas. “I will continue to put my trust in God & also getting up a lot of reps on my downtime”, said Phillip Russell. He also sees a lot of potential in his defense and knows exactly what needs to be worked on most in the lab. “I feel I’m a good defender I take pride in my defense. I can always improve & I will. I have to become dead eye from 3 & take care of the ball better”, warned Phillip Russell. It will be interesting to see how Kirchheim´s quest for the playoffs and how Russell´s game will continue to develop. One thing is for sure Jimmy Mckinney will continue to be proud of him.
Damian Forrest (206-F-2001, college: N.Alabama) is a 24 year old 206cm forward from Colorado playing his second professional season and first with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). Last season as a rookie you played with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. He began his basketball career at Poudre High School and then played a season at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. He then played a season at Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. He then played at the University of North Alabama (NCAA) from 2021-2024 averaging 5.3ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 44.4%, FT: 75.6%, 7.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 52.2% and 10.4ppg, 8.2rpg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a ENBL game against German team MBC.
Thanks Damian for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with Donar Groningen (Holland-DBL). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?
My experience with Donar Groningen has been great so far! I think we have a really great team and staff and thats why we are seeing so much success. The fact that this is basically a brand new team yet we are still so close and have such good chemistry with each other on and off the court has easily been my favorite part of this year.
Last season as a rookie you played in Germany. What are the biggest differences between Germany and Holland on and off the court?
I think that the biggest adjustment is physicality. To me, BNXT players and teams have been overall bigger and stronger than in the ProA, but luckily I like that kind of play and have really embraced it! Holland is great off the court, people are friendly and the city of Groningen is very lively and a nice place to live but I will say that I really miss Germany! This just comes down to personal preference because I grew up speaking German and always had wanted to live there, and it really had exceeded my expectations so I am very thankful for my time in Nuremberg.
The club has won quite a few titles in the last 12 years, but last won a cup in 2022. How big is the hunger in the organization to win again?
The hunger is huge! We have made it our goal to win the cup and the Dutch league, so despite some early success we come to practice every day knowing that our ultimate goal is still a ways away, and we need to work harder and get better everyday to reach it because we have the tools to do it
What has it been like playing for head coach Jason Dourisseau. I saw this guy play in Germany back in the day. He won 9 titles in Holland. How has he helped your game move forward this season?
Coach JD has been so huge for my development. Being relatively young and a former successful player means that he gets us and our team on a level that I have never seen before in my life. He has put ultimate confidence in me and my development and so I have seen leaps and bounds of my game getting better. I even hit my first in game three’s of my college and pro career because he really believes in me. Super thankful to play for him.
You’re a player that can score and rebound. What exactly is your role on the team?
My role is to be the anchor of the team. I have the capability to score and free up other guys by drawing attention to the post, but most of all being able to defend at a high level, screen, and rebound is central to my game and roll on a team. As well as being a leader with communicating and keeping everyone’s heads on the court and off.
Let´s talk more about your game. You’re a 206cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description? I would compare my game to a Jalen Duren or maybe Jarrett Allen, it´s hard to compare myself because I have a sort of unique game.
You’re a player that can score and rebound. What other strengths does your game incorporate? Other than scoring and rebounding, I pride myself on my individual defense guarding 1-5, my screen defense, my communication, and my screening. Also although my assist numbers aren’t high I am certainly getting better with my pass game.
In school you took only 2 three pointers. In Nurnberg none and now already 6 in Holland. Is the three pointer a part of your game that you would like to incorporate more into your game? I certainly want to incorporate the three into my game more, but not too much. I just want to prove the ability to make an open three or a low shot clock three to keep the defense honest and open up the floor for my teammates and myself.
You had have shown good glimpses as a defender. Would you still classify yourself as a raw defender overseas? What steps do you want to make this season with your defensive game?
I would consider myself a raw defender, I think I am a high level post defender and I have a really good ability for my size and weight to defend guards and outside the paint. I actually like the challenge of guarding and shutting down guys outside of my position and I love to play switch because I think I surprise guards that try and iso me, it always boosts my confidence when the guards stop trying to iso me because they can´t get past me.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? My court vision and ability to pass are two big areas of my game that I am trying to improve on this season. I am also trying to work on the ability to knock down open threes occasionally as I think that will be huge for both me and my team.
You played your rookie season with the Nuernberg Falcons BC (Germany-ProA) averaging 9.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 58.1%. What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
It was definitely a roller coaster of a rookie year. Being so far from home and dealing with a new team, new system, way of life, style of play, and coaches was a hard adjustment at first for sure. I think my wake up call was when my first coach and club parted ways. Made me realize how this was real life, no time or room to mess around because this is job. And being successful is a part of the job now, and of you can’t get the job done it can be over.
How do you summarize your rookie season in Germany and playing for Ralph Junge. How did your game grow as a rookie? It was a roller coaster of challenges on and off the court but I am thankful to have had the opportunity to play for Ralph, he definitely helped with my adjustment to the differences of the game on the court and in everyday life off the court.
You began your university basketball at the University of Michigan-Dearborn (NAIA) averaging 8.3ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 49.5%, FT: 73.0%. How vital was this first season playing for Taylor Langley? What could your game benefit most from that season?
I was under-recruited out of high school so going to play at UMD was a really pivotal year for me. I wasn’t sure if basketball was for me, or if this was sustainable, I wanted to be at a higher level and get more out of my experience. But I am thankful for how much of a grind it was because it made me realize I would do whatever it takes in basketball to get where I thought I should be.
You then took a step back to play with Cleveland State Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 55.8%, FT: 70.7%. Why did you make this decision? Was playing Juco a good decision? Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO reported that JUCO was tough, but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you? You were a NJCAA D1 Region VI Finalist. You couldn’t have worded it better yourself, it was a tough year but I wouldn’t trade it for the world, and it is the reason why I made it to where I am today. I made the decision to go down because I wanted to have a great enough season to get recruited to play at an NCAA Division 1 school where I thought I should be playing. So I grinded in JUCO and it worked out.
How valuable was head coach Lou Cigliano in your basketball development? How did he prepare you best for a NCAA career at North Alabama?
Coach Cig, Coach Howard, and Coach Chop all gave me all the tools to succeed and I am eternally grateful to them for it. I am still in touch to them to this day and very thankful for all they did to help me be great, achieve what I wanted to achieve, and prepare me for the next level.
You then played at North Alabama (NCAA). You improved your scoring and rebounding averages each season. What kind of a player did you become there? At North Alabama I really was able to find my identity as both a basketball player and a person. This is where I developed into a team captain, communicator, and defensive/offensive anchor of the team.
You played a season together with TIM Smith Jr who is in his second season in Germany. How special of a player and person was he for you there?
Tim Smith Jr is a hell of a ball player. We had a good season playing together and had a good run in the ASUN conference and tournament. Good guy on and off the court.
You had many great games like 2 14/10 games against EKU, or 2 great games against Lipscomb as a senior. What was your fondest moment there on the court? I would say the ASUN tournament my final year we played against Lipscomb in the quarterfinals of the ASUN tournament, it was a rival school of ours and absolutely packed arena with both fans. We ended up beating them on a crazy buzzer beater to send us to the semi-finals. It was insane experience and win, and got posted everywhere from Sportscenter to ESPN.
How did head coach Tony Pujol groom and prepare you best for a professional career?
Tony Pujol and Ahmad Smith from North Alabama both did a great job developing me and honing my skills as a player. They then allowed me to come stay at UNA over the past two summers to workout and stay in shape with the team and give the young guys advice, I am so thankful for them and how close we have become. They are instrumental in my success.
Who won a 1-1 on the court you or Tim Smith Jr? He is a better shooter but I think I got him because I would be able to play bully ball in the paint haha.
Who is the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA? The toughest that I had to guard was probably Chet Holmgren from Gonzaga
Who are your 5 best teammates of all-time? My top 5 in no particular order are Jacari Lane, Austin Luke, Jack Pagankopf, Dane Erikstrup, and Sardaar Calhoun.
Please name your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
My personal NBA mount Rushmore all time is MJ, Curry, Lebron, Kobe. Current players is Jokic, Giannis, Lebron, Steph.
Who is your GOAT? I think basketball is too complicated to say flat out one player is the goat, but my GOAT in terms of most dominant is Giannis.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? They definitely should have left it alone, I hate when they milk the classics and make sequels for a quick buck.
It wasn´t a great 2025-2026 season for the Skyliners Juniors as they finished the year in last place with a record of 3-10. They came into the new year with a lousy 5 game losing streak. They reacted by bringing in American rookie Desmond Watson (196-G-2003, college: Loyola, IL), a big guard that did his share of winning in the NCAA with Loyola Chicago and ex Pro A player Moses Poelking. The Skyliners Juniors had scoring punch, but it didn´t hurt to get some extra stability on the court. They faced the rising TV Langen that came to Frankfurt having won 4 of their last 5 games. TV Langen had defeated Frankfurt in Langen in the first game 70-61. The Skyliners Juniors obviously were hungry for revenge to start the new year off on the right foot. It was the home coming of ex Skyliners youth player Alexander Lagerman who played there a few years ago before departing for Schwenningen and Rhondorf as well as Drago Crnjac who wanted to keep his winning streak alive against brother Ivan who was 2-0 against him going in. The first game of 2026 for both teams was a close battle for the most part, but in crunch-time a deadly 21-0 run led by rookie and new Skyliner Desmond Watson sealed the 90-81 victory for the Skyliners Juniors. “We played really well as a team. We fought the whole game and never gave up. Every possession mattered for us. I have only been here 2 weeks, but the team is young, but has a real good chemistry”, stressed Ohio native Desmond Watson. TV Langen played a great game and controlled the game for long spans, but couldn´t finish the job falling apart in the last minutes. “We played so well for 35 minutes, but then to give it away really hurts. We defended so well for the longest time and then to fall apart at the end with giving up open three´s and dunks was unacceptable”, stressed TV Langen guard Drago Crnjac.
Lukas Smazak from outside
Basketball City Mainhatten was packed as many TV Langen fans made the 23 kilometer ride to Frankfurt to support their team. The Skyliners Juniors had a lightening start, but TV Langen finally found their rhythm and led by 4 points after 10 minutes as 46 points were scored. Frankfurt began furiously leading 9-2 as new Skyliner Desmond Watson wás instantly aggressive nailing a trey while German Jamie Edoka added 6 points including a trey. Frankfurt was playing at a high intensity while being very physical something that TV Langen couldn´t match and most importantly were able to play their game which is fast. However TV Langen finally found their rhythm and before Frankfurt knew what had hit them, TV Langen had gone on a 19-5 run to lead 21-14. TV Langen let it rain three´s as their team basketball was refreshing. They spread the love around getting three´s from rookie California native Jacob Washington with two while Drago Crnjac hit one as did ex Skyliner Niklas Pons. The heart and soul of TV Langen Henk Droste also scored twice on transition. TV Langen heightened their intensity and were able to execute in the set play as well as get out on transition while on defense flying around the court and forcing steals and getting in passing lanes well. Young Czech Republic guard Lukas Smazak added a trey as did Niklas Pons as TV Langen led 25-21 after one quarter. “I was surprised it was so high scoring. Both teams were playing unorthodox which led to more scoring than usual”, stressed Drago Crnjac. TV Langen shot 47% from the field and 56% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 2 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 47% from the field and 40% from outside and had 9 rebounds and 5 turnovers.
Leon Fertig at the FT line
The second quarter remained tight as the Skyliners Juniors attempted to get away at the start, but TV Langen were able to punch back and the game was dead locked at 41-41 at the break. TV Langen began with a swift 4-0 run to lead 29-21 as German 3×3 world champion Leon Fertig made an off balance shot and Drago Crnjac made a lay in. Frankfurt was forcing too much and just weren´t calm. Frankfurt wasn´t rattled by this lightening start as they calmed down and shot back with a 10-0 run to dead lock the game at 31-31. Ex Kronberg center Florian Dietrich was on fire scoring 3 times as he wanted to show that bringing in ex Pro A center Moses Poelking wasn´t about to hinder his game. He was aggressive and used his big body well getting easy buckets. Edoka also made a pretty floater, but the play of the game was the incredible flashy alley-oop dunk from Ivan the universal dimension Crnjac. He got a pretty pass from American Desmond Watson who made the perfect feed for the thunderous dunk. “I saw Watson pass the ball over my head and I turned my head and saw my brother in the air. I just thought look out. It was a great dunk maybe the best in his career”, stated Drago Crnjac. “I saw him running to the basket. He put his hand up. I was able to make the pass for him. We never practiced this”, stated Desmond Watson. Alex Lagerman then made a lay in while Ivan Crnjac remained hot netting a trey for the 34-33 Frankfurt lead. Lagerman continued to be in attack mode and would score 2 more lay in´s including a very acrobatic one for the 39-36 advantage. Frankfurt got a basket from Poelking to trail 39-38. Frankfurt continued to battle back and tied the game with a thunderous Dusan Nikolic dunk on transition as half-time arrived. “Both teams executed well on offense and got out on transition”, commented Drago Crnjac. TV Langen shot 46% from the field and 38% from the three point line and had 17 rebounds and 7 turnovers while the Skyliners Juniors shot 45% from the field and 26% from the three point line and had 22 rebounds and 6 turnovers.
Dusan Nikolic with the dunk
In the third quarter TV Langen got the lead and led by as much as 6 points, but could never shake the Skyliners Juniors as they actually regained the lead by 1 point after 30 minutes. TV Langen got a big trey by Leo Fertig and continued to attack the rim well getting lay in´s from Pons and Lagerman while Frankfurt rallied getting baskets from Dietrich and Watson, but trailed 50-45. Henk Droste continued to be his versatile self, but had that one extra special dimension and that was taking charges. He took 2 in this span which resulted in 2 Frankfurt turnovers. Whenever TV Langen tried to get away, Ivan Crnjac came to the rescue with a trey as Frankfurt trailed 50-48. But TV Langen always had an answer as Fertig and Washington had lay in´s while Droste had his 3rd charge of the game and TV Langen led 54-48. But Ivan Crnjac continued to make clutch baskets as he dropped another trey to trail 54-50. TV Langen continued to get easy baskets as Lagerman and Pons scored on the drive for the 58-53 advantage, but Frankfurt also always produced an answer as Ivan Crnjac made an offensive rebound and put back and Leif Zentgraf nailed a key trey to tie the game at 58-58. It continued to go back and forth as Drago Crnjac and Smazak traded three´s to tie the game at 61-61. Edoka countered with a trey and Fertig with his typical off balance shot as TV Langen trailed 64-63 after three quarters. “Both teams continued to execute well. It was tough getting stops”, said Desmond Watson. “Our weaknesses began to come. Our intensity went down, we had too many turnovers and didn´t rebound well”, said Drago Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44” from the field and 30% from the parking lot and had 36 rebounds and 16 turnovers and TV Langen shot 47% from the field and 37% from the parking lot and had 25 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
Jacob Washington from the parking lot
In the fourth quarter TV Langen came out hot and it seemed like they would ride home with the win, but as always basketball will always remain a game of runs as the Skyliners Juniors punched last with a massive run to win their first game in 2026. TV Langen slapped Frankfurt around in the first minutes with an annoying 13-3 run to lead 75-67. TV Langen continued to attack the weak Skyliners Juniors 1-1 defense as Drago Crnjac scored twice on the drive as did Pons and Washington. Frankfurt was erratic in this run not being able to run and didn´t move the ball well. But out of seemingly nothing, the Skyliners Juniors then totally turned the game around with a massive 21-0 run to steal the lead back at 88-75. Instrumental in the run was Desmond Watson who exploded scoring 12 of the first 15 points of the run playing more like a veteran than a rookie and showing he can score in massive bunches. He nailed 2 three´s, a mid distance jumper and hard dunk finishing with 29 points in his debut. “It was my first game in 6-7 months. I felt good, but a little tired at times. I was just happy I could play”, smiled Desmond Watson. Ivan Crnjac added extra insurance in the run with 5 points. Henk Droste stopped the run with a trey, but it was too little too late. After Alvin Onyia free throws, Drago Crnjac ended the game with a three pointer. “We played as a team in the run and stuck together. We heightened our intensity on defense and that sparked our offense”, expressed Desmond Watson. “We played bad defense and had horrible decisions at both ends of the court. We also had bad communication and they punished every mistake we did”, stated Drago Crnjac. The Skyliners Juniors were led by Desmond Watson with 29 points. Ivan Crnjac added 19 points and Jamie Edoka had 11 points while TV Langen was led by Drago Crnjac and Alexander Lagerman with 15 points a piece while Niklas Pons had 14 points. The Skyliners Juniors shot 44% from the field and 31% from outside and had 48 rebounds and 19 turnovers while TV Langen shot 48% from the field and 38% from outside and had 32 rebounds and 14 turnovers.
Billy McDaniel (199-F/C-1984, college: UAM) is a 41 year old 199cm forward playing his 20th professional season and first with Etzella Ettelbruck averaging 11,0ppg, 7,1rpg, 1,0apg and 1,1spg. Last season he played with BBC Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-LBBL) averaging 16.1ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT-2 (46.4%), FT: 88.2%. He is playing his18th seasons in Luexemburg and played one season in Iran and one season in Germany. He has won 6 titles in Luxemburg. He began his basketball career at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2)´playing a total of 120 NCAA 2 games. In his best 2 seasons, he averaged 20.8ppg, RebNCAA2-1 (12.8rpg), 1.0apg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 76.5% and 20.0ppg, RebNCAA2-9 (10.9rpg), 1.1spg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 67.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Billy for talking to germanhoops.com. Your 41 years old and in your 20th season as a professional playing for Etzella Ettelbruck. You just don´t stop. How are your wheels feeling at the moment?
The wheels are still turning, so to say, of course I have the normal amount of body soreness that’s expected this time of the year, but I do what’s needed to take care of myself as best as I can.
Your in your 18th season as a pro in Luxemburg and have played more than 400 games in your career. How quickly did Luxemburg become like a second home to you?
It’s even funny reading that I’ve been here for 17 years, it’s amazing how fast time flies. My wife came over from Germany a year after I arrived in Luxembourg, 2008 for me and 2009 for her. So I would say around 2012, we kind of figured that we could see ourselves settling down and making Luxembourg our home. It’s a great place and I can’t imagine many other places in the world that are better to raise kids than in Luxembourg.
What 10 years went quicker? From 20-30 or from 30 to 40? I would definitely say that the 10 years from 30-40 have gone by faster.
You began your basketball career in 2002 with University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2). If someone had told you in 2002 that you would still be a pro in 2025 what would you have thought? Of course, if someone tells me back in 2002, that I’m still doing what I love 23 years, I wouldn’t believe it.
What memories do you have of college basketball from almost 25 years ago. It was a lot different than than today. What were some major differences?
What I remember most about college is never being sore from all of that practice time that was put in. Those college practices seemed like they lasted forever. I remember the shot clock being 35 seconds and the game being slower back then. I remember long bus rides to conference games out of state, getting back late and having to go to class the next morning. I really enjoyed my college basketball experience and it helped shaped me into the player that I am today.
You would of come out of school in 2025 and begun your pro career, how do you feel would your career have gone? Do you feel like you could have had a different kind of career?
It’s very possible that my pro career could have gone in a different direction, especially since year after year is just so different as to which country you play in and things that you sometimes can’t control. In all honesty, I think the style of game that I play is suited to adapt to any playing style, so whether it’s me coming out of college in 2006 like I did, or now in 2025, I think my career follows a similar trajectory.
You were a double double menace your first 2 seasons at University of Arkansas at Monticello (NCAA2). How do you remember your game developing there? You got a good gripe on consistency early on didn´t you?
I remember having to be more physical stepping into the game, especially as a true freshman. Hitting the weights and learning about defense and schemes helped develop me as well. I did get a good grip on learning how to be consistent, because early on in my college career I was asked to be a scorer and a rebounder which was what I did best, so it was a good situation for me.
What was your fondest moment in the NCAA 2? You had many monster games. Which was your best game?
My fondest memory from school was definitely reaching the NCAA2 Sweet 16 my senior year. Being a small D2 school and playing schools like Fresno State, LSU, and Cincinnati were also great memories.
What memories do you have of Benas Matkevicius? He had a short pro playing career, but then went on to become a well known scout having scouted for CSKA Moscow and now the Boston Celtics. He also has a podcast.
My memories of Benas were of him being a great teammate and a fighter through adversity. He suffered a few knee injuries in school and he always fought back and found his way back to the court. It speaks volumes about the type of person that he is.
How did your head coach Mike Newell groom and prepare you for a pro career? First off, Mike prepares you for life. After being in his program for four years, I feel like he had me prepared for anything and everything that life had to throw my way. As far as my career goes, he put the ball in my hands very early on and kind of gave me the green light, which gave me a lot of confidence.
Who won a 1-1 in practice back in the day you or Nate Newell?
I’d say the 1 on 1 battle with Nate and I was about even, he could score the ball pretty good.
Who is the best player that you ever battled on the court that reached the NBA?
The toughest guy that I ever matched up with was Joe Johnson, in the Dunbar league back in Arkansas. After my senior year he was home and came to play in the league. He gracefully cooked everyone that guarded him. Let’s just say it’s a good thing that the game wasn’t recorded, yea he was definitely like that and I got to see first hand why they call him Iso Joe!
Not many players from Monticello have landed overseas. Guys like Sharif Hudson and Derylton Hill played in Germany. Have you followed the paths of guys that came overseas that played at your school? Yes, UAM is a small school and not many guys have gone on to play overseas. I did follow Sharif and I kept in touch with him during that time as well.
You began your professional career at Shahrdari Gorgan Municipality (Iran-Superleague). What do you remember being your wake up call to being a rookie overseas where you knew that you were far away from home?
My first Pro season was certainly an eye opener. The first and the biggest eye opener was actually during the flight over to Iran and thinking, man this flight is taking forever
What was your coolest experience in Iran? Did you celebrate any team parties in a palace?
My coolest experience in Iran was probably making the playoffs and winning the first round series. Just gaining that type of experience was nice, especially with being a rookie. We actually did have a teammates wedding that year, but not at a palace.
You played your second pro season with the Paderborn Baskets 91 (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 34 games averaging 4.1ppg, 3.2rpg. What memories do you have of that season? You had so many great teammates like the big 3 of Tim Black, Steve Esterkamp and Marius Nolte and others. Which player had the biggest impact on you?
Yes, second season spent in Germany, where I would eventually meet my wife. Great memories in Germany, probably the biggest were playing against teams like Alba, in Berlin, the atmosphere in there was amazing. Bunch of great teammates there, but just seeing the commraderie that Tim, Steve and Marius had on and off the court was special. The way they all prepared for each practice and never cut any corners was something that I always tried to emulate. They were literally the ultimate professional players and I was very lucky to spend a season with guys like that early on in my career.
You played against many great players in Germany that season like Rickey Paulding or Dru Joyce or Romeo Travis. Which player that season do you remember being your toughest cover? There were so many great players that season, and the guys that you mentioned were certainly up there, but man, Jeff Gibbs at Ulm was unlike any guy I had ever seen on the court. I don’t remember his name, but Frankfurt also had a guy that season that was tough.
You then went to Luxemburg and never left again. What did you learn to appreciate the most about the country on and off the court that has allowed you to be there more than 15 years? There was something about Luxembourg that immediately made me like it, maybe it’s because I’m from a small town in Texas, Hearne to be exact, and a lot of the places here remind me of that, small communities where everyone knows everyone. The Luxembourgish community has always treated me well, I appreciate how players and fans interact with each other after games.
You played the first part of your pro career in Luxemburg with Black Star Mersch. What was so special about this club?
Yes, my first four years here were spent with Black Star Mersch. It was a family type of atmosphere and they treated me well.I learned a lot about the league during that time. Our team was really young and we grew together. I will always think back to those days in Mersch because we certainly weren’t the most talented team, but we worked and fought for each other.
How vital was coach Mike Smith early in your career? He gave you the freedom for you to play your game didn´t he?
Mike had an unbelievable impact on my career. He actually just came and watched my game last week, and I bet he’s the person that knows my game the best. Depending on where I am on the court he probably knows exactly what I’m going to do with the ball once I get it. We spent so much time working on and refining my game it’s crazy. Four years that I will remember forever, I am very thankful for the impact that he had on me.
You then played 5 years at Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) and had your best years winning many titles. What was it like being part of a dynasty?
Steinsel was amazing! I’ve been very lucky to have been with some great organizations and they were certainly up there. We won 6 titles, 3 cups, and 3 championships in a row! Being part of a dynasty like that was without a doubt the best time of my career. Finally getting over the hump with losing the championship two years in a row and then winning three in a row was something special. Winning a championship is so difficult, but winning three in a row with almost the same guys is something that I’ll always cherish.
What title at Amicale Steinsel (Luxembourg-Total League) was your favorite title? It’s way too difficult to say which title was my favorite. Certainly the first cup title of 2015 was nice, because it was my first title as a pro, and unfortunately it came against Mike Smith. The first championship in 2016 was like finally proving to yourself and your teammates that we were good enough to get it done. The last championship was bittersweet because we knew the team would be different with losing coach KD, but we finished it off right with two doubles in a row and completing the 3peat!
What was the secret to the success of the dynasty? Did guys like Samy Picard and Bob Melchor become like brothers to you?
There really wasn’t a secret to the success. Yes, we were very talented, but we went to work and practiced hard. Coach KD got the best out of us. Practices were always competitive and we wanted to be great! Our whole team was like a brotherhood, but certainly guys like Bobby and Samy were very close to me as we were maybe the only guys who were there the entirety of the dynasty! With a guard that pushed the pace like Bobby and a shooter and scorer like Samy, it made my job very easy.
You were a walking bucket averaging 21,0ppg and 11,0rpg in those years. How did it feel for you being the best player in the league? What was your secret to being so consistent? When you have a team like I had in Steinsel it was a perfect fit for me to come in and be myself. I was immediately put into a role that I was very familiar with and that allowed me to be successful. I never worried or cared about being the best player in the league, I just wanted to play my best, help my team win and have fun doing it. The key to consistency for me was doing the things that had always helped me, which were to always practice hard, take care of my body and perfect the things that I was good at. I never went outside of my boundaries as a basketball player, I know what I’m good at and I stick to it.
You then played 6 years with BBC Mambra Mamer (Luxembourg-Nationale 2). How do you remember these years? You didn´t play in the first division anymore. How much of a challenge was it for you mentally? You still were a walking bucket.
I then moved on to Mamer in 2018. The year that I joined them, they promoted from the 3rd to the 2nd league. After the 5 years in Steinsel, I felt like I needed to take a step back and go to the 2nd league. I remember the years playing for Mamer as me still being able to enjoy the game of basketball. By that time I was already working as a PE teacher, so having to go to work during the day and practicing at night wasn’t an easy task. Two of the seasons were cut short due to the pandemic, but it was still at great time in my career. Going to a lower league wasn’t really a challenge for me mentally, it was more so a challenge physically, because by that time I was getting up in age and my body didn’t feel the same as it did during my younger years of course. All in all, Mamer was another good stop in my career. We did some amazing things there that I’ll forever be proud of, moving up the first league is certainly up there in my career as things I’ll never forget.
Mike Smith came back to coach and you were reunited again. Did he become like a second dad to you?
Yes, Mike came back and helped us make club history by promoting to the first league in his first season as our head coach. He is most definitely family to me, he cooked the food at our engagement party and his daughter, who is an adult now, was our flower girl for the wedding.
You returned to the first division with BBC Residence Walferdange (Luxembourg-LBBL) and averaged 37 minutes and 16/8. That is amazing considering there are many other Americans on the team. How much longer can you still play? Yes, back in the first league now. I wouldn’t mind cutting down on some of those minutes, but it is what it is. I’m not sure how much longer I can still play. I do know that I still love it, so as usual, after the season I’ll take time with my family and see what’s best moving forward.
You were 15-16 years older than some of the Americans on the team. Are you like a mentor to guys like Ayers and Green? I have always considered myself a lead by example type of guy. I offer advice from time to time, but for the most part I prefer showing the way over talking about it.
What are you goals after your playing career? Will you go into coaching or do something else and could you imagine staying overseas?
My goals after my playing career are to definitely travel a bit more. I’m sure I will eventually get into coaching, but for now I’ll stick to teaching PE, I really want to spend more time at home with my wife and kids before I jump into something else. Luxembourg is home now, my daughters were both born here, so this is where we will be.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
There were a bunch of really good teammates, but if the list has to be cut to 5 I’ll go with Tim Black, Leon Ayers, Nathan Peavy, Shavon Coleman and Greg Jenkins.
Please name your NBA Mount Rushmore?
Magic, Jordan, Kobe, Tim Duncan and Shaq
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
Yes, I saw the sequel and like most classics it should have been left alone.
Garrett Hicks (183-PG-2001, college: Samford) is a 24 year old 183cm guard playing his second professional season and first in Germany with Pro A club EPG Guardians Koblenz. He played his rookie season with RASHI Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague) averaging 18.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 80.8%. He began his basketball career at James Clemens high school. He then played 4 seasons at : Alabama A&M University (NCAA) playing a total of 102 games. He added a 5th year at Samford University (NCAA) averaging 6.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 80.0%. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the massive 107-89 win in Bochum.
Congrats on the big 107-89 win over the VFL SparkassenStars Bochum. How good did it feel getting that first win of 2026? It felt great back in the win column after a 2- game skid against a good Bochum team
What lesson did the team learn from the tough 105-98 loss against Kirchheim?
Our loss against Kircheim allowed us to recognize what flaws we had offensively and defensively. We learned that we needed to be more disciplined each and every possession and that leads to wins.
Bochum came into the game with a 3-3 record and up and down. Did the team have an idea what to expect? What was the game plan going into the game? We knew that their guards would dictate the game and we had to limit their effectiveness to have a chance to win.
The first quarter was very high scoring as the EPG Baskets led 32-29. A great scoring quarter for Koblenz, but too many points given up. What were the main problems on the defensive end in the first 10 minutes? We had turnovers that led to some easy baskets for them & some backcourt mistakes that led to more transition opportunities.
The turning point of the game came in the second quarter as Koblenz went on a 14-2 run to lead 46-31. What was key in the run for getting away from Bochum? We played disciplined defense and ran the court on offense to propel our lead in the second.
In the third quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz continued to control the game. Wishart and Smith Jr were a 2 man wrecking crew. Did the heightened defense spark the offense? Definitely, when we get stops on defensive it helps our offense tremendously.
Koblenz led 85-66 after 3 quarters. Antonio Williams hit big shots and finished with 17 points. What made it so difficult to contain him? He’s very quick and capitalized on our mistakes defensively.
Koblenz did a great job maintain the lead in the fourth quarter. In the past Koblenz have given up leads. It has had mental lapses this season. Was keeping the lead and finishing strong mentally a big step?
Yes, for sure. We know that we have let leads slip away multiple times this season so it’s key to stay disciplined throughout the game and execute our gameplan.
How refreshing was it seeing young kid Omer Girgin make the last points a 3 pointer of the game?
Omer is a great young talent and has worked hard throughout the season in practice so it was great to see him knock down his first shot of the season.
The EPG Baskets continue to give up too many points. On a lesser scoring night you may have lost. Did you see any new steps made on the defensive end? I thought we communicated some lapses we had on defense in the first half and corrected those mistakes in the second half.
Tim Smith Jr had another great scoring game with 27 points. He continues to be one if not the most consistent player on the team. How much does his scoring punch power the team?
Tim is a great talent in our league and has a very versatile scoring bag. He’s always making the shots we need most in the fourth and he came up clutch tonight.
Calvin Wishart had another incredible game with 18/6/10/2 game. Is he a pro A MVP candidate?
Definitely, he leads the team and brings the energy that everybody feeds off of. He’s a tough matchup for anybody in the league and he shows that every night.
You next face Giessen another playoff team. What will be key to getting the win? Continuing to push the pace on offense and staying disciplined on defense will be key.
You had a 5/1/1 game in 10 minutes. That was very efficient. Were you content with it? I thought that I brought energy where it was needed tonight and helped contribute to the win.
You played 10 minutes the least this season. How tough is it finding a rhythm when your minutes fluctuate like crazy? I must be ready when my name is called at all times & be aggressive once I’m in.
How tough has this season been being a talented offensive guy on a team with many other talented offensive guys. How big is efficiency in your game? It seems like you try to get that quick rhythm with a three pointer often in games when you get on the court? I know I must be in attack mode to start the game. This helps the whole team
When one looks back on the last 8 easyCredit seasons of the Skyliners, success hasn´t been etched in their name. The last time they reached the playoffs without help of the 19-20 Covid season was 2018 where a certain formula of success in the name of Gordon Herbert was coaching the team. In the last 8 years the club has brought in many talented players young and old including some very special players that could produce those unique highlight films in terms of scoring. If I had to chose 3 guys that were the most dominant 1-1 guys the 2004 BBL champion had in the last 8 years then it would have to be Matt Mobley, Malik Parsons and current explosive rookie Isaiah Swope (178-PG-2003, college: St.Louis). Both Parsons and Swope scored in double figures in 12 of their first 14 games including cup games for Frankfurt. The only real distinct difference is that Frankfurt is winning more with Swope then they were with Parsons and Swope is also only a rookie. The current Skyliners has been refreshing as winning is happening again. Both Parsons and Swope have that exceptional quality of creating their own shots and making difficult shots. Swope has done it over and over this season hitting massive shots. He pulled his biggest trick so far this season scoring 11 points in a row in Jordan esc manner and propelling the team to the victory over Jena and 2 days ago in Heidelberg nailing a crunch-time trey with under 2,00 minutes securing the win and registering a season high 29 points. His recipe of success is simple and it simply works and he sticks to it. “I just try to do what I practice. That is where I´m most comfortable. I play off momentum, instincts and what I practice”, stressed Isaiah Swope.
After having lost 3 of their last 4 games, the Skyliners wanted to leave 2025 with a win in Heidelberg. Heidelberg were also reeling to win again after a disastrous 100-67 game against Bonn in their own living room. As the doormat of the BBL, Heidelberg had to react and did with a strong performance against Frankfurt. Frankfurt came into the game prepared and never underestimated them. “It was urgent as always to win as every game is tough. Every team in the BBL is good. It doesn´t matter where a team is in the standings. You have to win every game. We also had a tough loss. It was a game with 2 teams coming off tough loses. I think the main focus of both teams was to perform better than the last game. That was why the game was so tight”, stated Isaiah Swope. It was one of those rare and unique games where it went back and forth for 38 minutes until mr Clutch Isaiah Swope did his thing. Basketball is a game of runs and for a team to go on a 8-0 or 10-2 run in a game is as usual as Wemby of the Spurs registering 2-3 blocks a game. But in Heidelberg, big rusn weren´t on the menu that night. Was a back and forth punching like in Heidelberg the first of it´s kind for him? “I have had multiple games like that in my career. Games where no team can really break away and where there are runs of 2-4 points. You need to figure out how to execute at the end and force them to as tough shots as possible”, said Isaiah Swope.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Isaiah Swope in Frankfurt 2025
The ex Saint Louis University (NCAA) guard whom would always take himself over current teammate Nahiem Alleyne in a 1-1 battle in practice made baskets early, but Heidelberg had the early 19-18 advantage after 10 minutes. Did Swope already feel like he was getting into the zone for a remarkable scoring game early? “It always depends how the game is going. I just try to go in and find a flow like I did in the last games and just build off it. I just do what I know”, said Isaiah Swope. Heidelberg had allowed an excess of 100 points in the last 2 games, but defended with more passion and authority against Frankfurt and only trailed 36-33 at the break. “We both had tough loses before and hadn´t been playing to our standard. The goal was to play as hard as possible. Sometimes a game won´t be pretty”, stated Isaiah Swope. Till Pape was back after missing the Munich game as his presence not being there was felt by the Skyliners. “When he is on the floor, his presence is really felt. He is a huge mismatch issue. He makes everything easier for us. I´m grateful that he could play against Heidelberg”, added Isaiah Swope. The third quarter remained a back and forth punch affair as no team could get away, but Heidelberg stole the lead back at 59-57. “The main focus for us as a group going into the fourth quarter was defense. We have had plenty of games where our offense eventually played well. If we play good defense then the rest will take care of it´s self. We did a good job taking away their second chance points”, commented Isaiah Swope. With less than 2 minutes to play ex MHP Riesen guard Radii Caisin made a big three as did Swope did for the 74-.70 lead and that was that as the Skyliners would never trail again. “Radii´s shot was off energy. This was the first point of the game that we were able to break away. The momentum swung in our direction and we built on it to get the win”, stressed Isaiah Swope. The Skyliners are back on the mat on January 3rd in Rostock. Rostock like Heidelberg will also be hungry for redemption as they suffered a tough 85-67 loss to FC Bayern Munich on December 31st. “We have to figure out what Rostock do well and then take it away or make it as tough as possible for them. We just have to believe in ourselves and we will be fine”, warned Isaiah Swope.
This season the ex University of Southern Indiana (NCAA2) guard is averaging 15/3/2/1 stats in 25 minutes per game. As a rookie he has held his own well and continuing to get adjusted while being able to shine playing his game. But most important of all, he is grateful for being able to play the game he loves. “I´m just really appreciative that I can play professional basketball overseas. I feel like I could be playing a lot better, but at the same time, I understand that it´s my first year and I´m still learning. My main goal is to win and if I can do that, then I´m happy”, expressed Isaiah Swope. As a rookie overseas he is averaging 11 minutes less than at St Louis, but only averaged 2 points more last season. What is interesting is that his game has gotten a big push not necessarily from on the court. “I feel like I have grown more these first few months off the court. It has been a big change going from all that I have been used to the last years. Going through that change on a daily basis has helped me the most with basketball”, stated Isaiah Swope. He had a consistent career in the NCAA and shot around 38% from outside the last 3 years. How difficult is it being consistent while taking many shots per game? “I just do what I do in practice. I´m ok with the results. I feel like my numbers will always average out to what they are supposed to be. I think that I have missed a few shots in each game so far where it had nothing to do with the defense, but it was on me. I think that I´m learning every game and the more we play together as a team and keep figuring it out, the more consistent we will get as a team”, warned Isaiah Swope. He surely could show some more aspects of his game then just clutch scoring, but for him it is all about having success as a team. “My main focus is winning. As long as we win, then I´m not concerned with personal accomplishments. That comes with winning. If we win, then I can automatically show who I am as a player”, stressed Isaiah Swope. 2026 is here and there is always that question. Did he have any new years resolution? “I do not. I live my life no matter what year it is. Every day is like a new years resolution for me”, said Isaiah Swope. It will be interesting to see how Isaiah Swope´s rookie season continues to progress and can he be that next rookie since Justin Cobbs to help the Skyliners reach the playoffs again?
Jake Biss (188-G-1998, college: Shippensburg) is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Latrobe, Pennsylvania playing his fourth professional season and third in Germany with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season with Bremerhaven he averaged 8.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 87.5%. In 2023-2024 he played with Gartnezaun24 Baskets Paderborn averaging 11.7ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 77.4%. In his rookie season he played with he played with the Den Helder Suns (Holland-DBL) averaging 12.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 90.3% in the BNXT league. He began his basketball career at Greater Latrobe High School and then played at ShippensburgUniversity (NCAA2) from 2017-2022 amassing a total of 118 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen.
Congrats on the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen in overtime. How big was the win after the tough loss against Kirchheim? Thank you! It definitely feels good to get back in the win column. We dropped a few games that had us a little out of sync, but this win felt like the way we were playing at the start of the season.
Before we get to the game, talk a little about Kirchheim. They are one of the hottest teams in the Pro A at the moment. What made it so difficult to play them?
Yeah, they’re a really talented team and have been playing really well. They did a few things defensively that I think caught us off guard a little. They got us out of our offensive flow, but we also missed a lot of shots and didn’t give ourselves the best chance of getting a win in Kirchheim.
The first quarter was a real back and forth affair. It was dominated by the 2 point shot. How vital was it for Elijah Miller to get going early? He would be an instrumental part of the offensive attack. Yeah Elijah definitely stepped up big. He’s not one to let anything faze him and you could just tell that he was locked in from start to finish. Coach talked to us about staying aggressive and Elijah did a great job keeping pressure on the rim.
Bremerhaven went on a big run at the start of the second quarter to lead 34-23. You hit 2 back to back three´s. How good did that feel beating your season average of 5,0ppg in 2 shots?
I didn’t even know those were my numbers so that honestly didn’t register with me at all. It’s always good when you can find a little rhythm in a game and knock a few shots down consecutively. It’s a momentum booster for sure.
Tuebingen came back and trailed only 43-37 at the break. Carlos Carter made some big shots in that stretch. He is the heart and soul of the team. Where would the team be without him? We certainly wouldn’t be the team we are without him. Carlos is as versatile as it gets and with us dealing with some injuries over the past few weeks, he’s had to move back and forth from playing the 3 and 4 which is never an easy assignment, but he’s done a great job with it.
Tuebingen went on a 11-0 run to begin the third quarter and bang they had the 48-45 lead. What did Bremerhaven get away from to allow that furious comeback by the guests?
I don’t know if we got away from much that we were doing in the first half. I’m sure we gave them a few more open looks in that stretch that we could’ve done better with, but I don’t think they missed on that run. They made some tough shots, and we unfortunately weren’t making shots in that stretch.
Hendrik Warner made a bucket late in the third quarter but Tuebingen still led 59-57 after 30 minutes. How tough was it watching the mis fortune of Warner on this day? It was one of those days where nothing fell for him except for that?
The good thing about our team is that we have a deep bench. If Hendrik or anyone else isn’t having their best night, we have a lot of other guys that can go out and have a solid night. Sure, Hendrik might not have been finishing like he usually does, but he’s always doing a lot of those little things that go unnoticed but make a huge difference throughout the game.
The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as lead changes occurred instantly. Tuebingen could of won the game on the last shot, but Felix Edwardsson missed. How do you remember that last shot?
I can’t lie I remember seeing him take that last shot but how he got that open I’m not too sure. There must have been some type of miscommunication on our end. Thankfully it didn’t go in.
What did head coach Steve Esterkamp tell the team to do going into the OT?
I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I know he was pretty calm and collected. It didn’t feel much different than say, going into the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th quarters. We just knew we added a little more time to the game and had to stick to what we were doing and find a way to grind out the win.
Bremerhaven dominated 23-8. What was key for getting the win? The love of spreading the ball was totally there?
Yeah, like you said we had the ball moving. I feel that this team is very unselfish and when we keep the ball moving on offense, we’re really hard to defend against and I hope that’s how Tuebingen felt.
Did you want it more than they did? Where was this game won? The stats were quite even.
It kind of felt that way. I feel like we had great energy from start to end which has been something we haven’t had in the last four or five games. When we keep that energy and fight for all 40 minutes, we can be dangerous.
You had a 12/1/5/2 game in 30 minutes. You shot well and found your teammates. How happy were you with your game?
You know me man, I’m big on doing the little things that go unnoticed which help bring wins. Doing those small things usually lead to a pretty decent stat line so I’m happy with how the game went, but I’m going to keep making sure the small details are a priority.
Bremerhaven had a great start with 8-2 in the season. But then lost 4 of 5 games. Did the team feel a little pressure of starting so well? No, I don’t think so. We just got a little out of sync, but I’m confident we can build a nice winning streak again.
It seemed like there were games where nothing worked on offense. Was that more on the team or did opponents scout you better?
I’m sure it’s been a little bit of both. Teams have done a good job trying to take away what we like to get to offensively, but that’s where we need to be better as a team at making the necessary adjustments.
Last season you averaged 8/2/2 in 22 minutes and this season 5/1/1 in 22 minutes. Is your role pretty much the same?
No, coach moved me to the 2 and brought Raphael in at the 1 which I think was a great move. I think I’m more effective playing off the ball and making plays for guys that way. When Raphael got hurt the team needed me back at the 1, so as of now I’m in a similar role as last season. But Raphael is a really good point guard with a high basketball IQ and I’m excited for him to get back on the court with us when he’s healthy again.
You were more of a scorer in Paderborn and Holland and in school. You’re a guy that plays for the best of the team. Is this something that has been difficult to get used to or was there no problem?
No problem at all. I’ve been more of a scorer on some not so good teams and I’m currently on a great team but not the primary scorer. And I’ll say every single time that I’d much rather be on a winning team and do what the team needs me to do whether that’s scoring or not, rather than scoring a bunch and losing night in and night out.
Today you shot 60% from outside and are scratching the 40%. It is no secret that shot selection is so vital overseas. How big of a challenge and exciting is it for you knowing when to shoot and when rather not to?
That’s very true. At the professional level, shot selection has much more of an importance compared to college – in my experience at least. It’s definitely been something I had to work on, but I understand why it is so important and it’s helped me understand the European playing style more.
Are you working on anything extra this season besides your shot and my decision making when coming off ball screens Yeah, when we can get in the paint, our offense becomes a lot harder to guard. So, I’ve definitely worked on my floater a lot more in the past two seasons and over the summer on top of working on decision making on ball screens and my shot.
Bremerhaven next battle Phoenix Hagen in 2026. What will be key to getting the win? I haven’t put much thought to that game yet. I definitely have that “one game at a time” mentality, but we’ll get in the gym this week and prepare for Hagen and do what we can to come out with a win.
Do you have any new years resolutions?
Nothing yet. I guess I only have a few more days to think of one. I’ll get something figured out though.
Radii Caisin (198-SG-2001) is a 24 year old 198cm shooting guard playing the 2025-2026 season with the Frankfurt Skyliners. He played the last 2 seasons with BC Raiffeisen Flyers Wels (Austria-BSL) averaging 12.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.1apg, Steals-5 (1.7spg), FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 83.3%and 18.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 3.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 57.6%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 82.2%. He played parts of 4 seasons in the easyCredit BBL with teams MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, MBC and Crailsheim. He played 3 seasons in the Rasta Vechta organization. He spoke to germanhoops.com after the big 80-75 win over the MLP Academics Heidelberg
Congrats Radii on the big 80-75 win in Heidelberg. How urgent was this game to win after the tough loss to FC Bayern Munich? The way we put the Munich game in the sand and then had to play against one of the worst teams in the BBL, this game was urgent for us. You have to win these kind of games. It wasn´t our best game in Heidelberg. We won more with will than beauty.
The MLP Academics have had a tough season and lost very badly to Bonn a few days ago. How key was it for the team to go into the game not to underestimate them?
It was a big challenge coming to their place and playing against a team that lost very badly against Bonn. Plus one import was released by them and another was injured. They had nothing to lose. They played with 120% against us something they didn´t do in their last games. They did a good job staying with us. We had to take them very seriously.
This was a very rare game where it was really back and forth for 38 minutes. Have you ever had a game like this that was so tight for almost 40 minutes?
I actually have played games like this where it went back and forth. In these type of games it is simply important to get stops. We did that in crunch-time at the right moment.
Damariae Horne got going right away in the first quarter and finished with 32 points. What made it so difficult to contain him? We knew going in that he was one of their key players. He had even more weight on his shoulders with 2 less imports. He may have had a few easy looks, but he is still a very talented player. We were a bit behind on some cuts and pin downs. That gave him holes to score easier.
Isaiah Swope made big buckets in the last minutes of the first quarter to keep Frankfurt close and trailing 19-18 after 10 minutes. Have you ever played with such a consistent dominant player that brings his A game every game?
I actually have played with players like Swope. When I was in Vechta there were guys like Austin Hollins and TJ Bray that could score every game the way Isaiah does. You simply know exactly what you get from guys like that. There can always be days where their shots don´t fall, but we s a team always trust them to shoot.
The Skyliners led 36-33 at the break. Heidelberg had allowed over 100 points the last 2 games, but defended a lot better against you. What adjustments did they make on the defensive end?
I don´t think that it was so much on them, but more on us. We just couldn´t play our game and didn´t have great ball movement. We held the ball too long at times and took shots near the end of the shot clock. We just didn´t play good offense. We only had 2 fast break baskets at the break. Transition is our game and we weren´t able to play it as much as we wanted.
Till Pape was back and made big baskets in the third quarter. What extra dimension did he give the team that it didn´t have against Munich?
He gives us more height. When he isn´t on the floor, our inside game suffers as does our rebounding. Without Till, we are simply too one dimensional.
Heidelberg led 59-57 after 30 minutes. What did Klaus Perwas tell the team to do going into the fourth quarter?
At that moment it was all about who wanted it more. Klaus told us that we had too stay together and give that last push and get stops. He wanted us to defend and play with will.
The turning point came when you hit a trey and Isaiah Swope a three at the 1,43 minute mark to lead 74-70. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win? Defense and will won us the game. We got key rebounds and contained Williamson better. We also controlled second chance points. We also forced turnovers. When that happens, it is a lot easier to play offense.
The Skyliners next play Rostock. What will be key to getting the win?
We have to heighten our defense after the way we played against Munich. We can´t give up easy baskets. We have to paly our game more and go back to our roots against Rostock.
You had a 8/3 game in 19 minutes. How content were you with your game?
It was ok. The second half was better than the first half.
Your averaging 6/3 stats in 17 minutes. You always give needed energy from the bench. Did your 2 years in Austria pay off for you?
Yes 100% it has paid off for me. In Austria my role was different, but I still had to show what I can do on the court to reach the easyCredit BBL level. Everything fits well with Klaus Perwas.
Your averaging 15 minutes less than last year in Wels. You have never taken more than 4 shots in a game this season. How challenging is shot selection for you? Are you looking and trying to take the perfect shot every game?
In a way yes. The shots that Isaiah Swope take may not be ideal, but he is allowed to take them. I won´t take those type of shots. I took shots like that last season, but don´t need to this season. My game is simple with the Skyliners. I have the green light to take open shots from the three point line or closer. I can also attack closeouts, but not create my own shots.
You give a lot of energy on the court. What else would you like to show more on the court that you haven´t been able to show yet?
I just try to improve step by step. I know I can show more, but with this team I don´t have to in the role that I have. I´m still young and still have time to show more in the next years.
Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Will Christmas? I do.
What are your new years resolutions?
I want to become more disciplined off the court and read more books. On the court to invest more and grow step by step.
Adrian Breitlauch (193-SG-1993) is a 32 year old 193cm guard playing his 8th season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP-1 (74.4%), 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 82.1%. He played 3 years in the easyCredit BBL with Bremerhaven. He also balled 2 seasons with the Artland Dragons and 4 years with the Itzehoe Eagles. He also had experience with TK Hannover and BSG Bermerhaven. He spoke to eurobasket after the big win over Tuebingen.
Congrats on the big 101-86 win over Tuebingen in overtime. How big was the win after the tough loss against Kirchheim? It was a very big win for us. We wanted to bounce back and show a positive reaction after our sub par performance in Kirchheim last week. With this win, we are now ready to face the top team of Phoenix Hagen with a bit more of confidence.
Before we get to the game, talk a little about Kirchheim. They are one of the hottest teams in the Pro A at the moment. What made it so difficult to play them?
They are an individually very talented team. But they also manage to play good and aggressive team defense. They are well coached too and deservedly one of the hottest teams in the league right now.
The first quarter was a real back and forth affair. It was dominated by the 2 point shot. How vital was it for Elijah Miller to get going early? He would be an instrumental part of the offensive attack. Elijah´s performance was very important to us. He got our offense going early by scoring but also with sharing the ball. He is one of our key players for our offensive system.
Bremerhaven went on a big run at the start of the second quarter to lead 34-23. Jake Biss hit 2 back to back three´s. How vital is his efficient play?
We love having Jake on the team. He does many of the little things on offense and defense that you don´t necessarily find on the box score. Yesterday, his two big threes got us going on an important run securing us the lead at halftime.
Tuebingen came back and trailed only 43-37 at the break. Carlos Carter made some big shots in that stretch. He is the heart and soul of the team. Where would the team be without him? Carlos is our energy guy. Offensively he always finds ways to get to the paint, which is important for us. Defensively he is one of our motors also with his energy. We wouldn´t be where we are right now without having Carlos Carter on our team.
Tuebingen went on a 11-0 run to begin the third quarter and bang they had the 48-45 lead. What did Bremerhaven get away from to allow that furious comeback by the guests? Basketball is a game of runs. We weren´t ready on the defensive end and allowed Tübingen to get going. But it was important that we stayed together and kept going. Our body language still stayed positive in that time, which was big key in winning the game.
Hendrik Warner made a bucket late in the third quarter but Tuebingen still led 59-57 after 30 minutes. How tough was it watching the mis fortune of Warner on this day? It was one of those days where nothing fell for him except for that? I was happy for him seeing him score that and one during a big moment in the game. But Hendrik Warner´s game is not only measured by his offensive output. His consistent efforts on defense put us in a position to win the game. He played a big part in our win yesterday.
The fourth quarter was a real dog fight as lead changes occurred instantly. Tuebingen could of won the game on the last shot, but Felix Edwardsson missed. How do you remember that last shot? We had a missed communication on defense that led to him having that open shot. But our weakside rotation covered up and allowed to make that shot a bit tougher. But honestly speaking, we also had some fortune there that he missed that shot and that the game went into overtime.
What did head coach Steve Esterkamp tell the team to do going into the OT? That is staying between Steven Esterkamp and the team.
Bremerhaven dominated 23-8. What was key for getting the win? The love of spreading the ball was totally there?
Yes, we shared the ball very well. Jemarl Baker made some highlight plays and we managed to get to the free throw line consistently. I think that those were the key factors offensively to win the game.
Did you want it more than they did? Where was this game won? The stats were quite even. Both teams played their heart out yesterday. It was a back and fourth game that could have ended either way. Big respect to Tübingen for a good performance. In the end, we had the luck on our side and managed to stay calm in overtime.
You had a solid 11/6/1/1 game. How happy were you with your game? I was happy that I got to support the team. My goal was to be aggressive and lead with body language and effort to put us in a position to win. Those things were more important than the individual statistics.
Bremerhaven had a great start with 8-2 in the season. But then lost 4 of 5 games. Did the team feel a little pressure of starting so well?
This past month was a growth step for us. We didn´t play up to our potential. That´s why yesterdays win was very important to us. Now we focus on becoming the best possible version of Eisbären Bremerhaven in 2026.
It seemed like there were games where nothing worked on offense. Was that more on the team or did opponents scout you better? Probably a mixture of both. But in the end, we need to focus on us. There we have more potential than what we showed these past weeks.
This season your averaging 5/2/1 stats. Your averaging 3 less minutes than last season. What is your biggest goal with your game this season? Are you giving anything new or extra to the team with your game that you haven´t done in the past?
Personally, I am just trying to do whatever it takes to win basketball games. It is not about the statistics to me. I am just trying to leave my heart out on the court and support the team to put us in a position to win.
Bremerhaven next battle Phoenix Hagen in 2026. What will be key to getting the win? Our effort, body language and to keep going even if things don´t go our way. If we can bring this, then we are in a position to get an upset win against the top team of Hagen.
Do you have any new year´s resolutions? Having a great year with the Eisbären Bremerhaven.
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