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Gian Aydinoglu(Kirchheim) Is 100% Sure That He Wouldn’t Be The Player He Is Today Without Having Had The Guidance From Alba Berlin

Pic credit: Nina Sander

Gian Aydinoglu (189-PG-2003) is a 23 year old 189cm guard that is playing his first season with the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim (ProA) and helped lead them into the Pro A final. He began his career in the Alba Berlin organization and helped them win the NBBL title in 2022. He then played 3 years with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig playing a total of 35 easyCredit BBL games and 6 Fiba Europe Cup games. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

You played many years in the Alba Berlin organization. How vital were these early years in your basketball development?

Those years were very important for my development. The foundation for my game, mentality and ideology was set there. Vladi Bogojevic was instrumental in my development as I had him as a coach in the JBBL and NBBL. One really sees how good of a job Alba Berlin does with the youth program simply with the success the players have had since. You haven´t seen that kind of success consistently again anywhere else. I give a big thanks to Alba Berlin that I could play there. I wouldn´t be the player I am today without Alba Berlin

How vital was Vladi Bogojevic for your development as a player?

Vladi comes from the old jugo school. I remember that I was scared to go to practice when Vladi was my coach in the JBBL. But I mean that in a positive way. I will never forget when he told me that I could practice with the BBL team Alba Berlin. He lives in my area in Berlin and when I go home in the summer, we always meet and have a coffee and talk about the good old days.

In your last season with Alba Berlin, you had your break through with SSV Lokomotive Bernau (ProB) averaging 10.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 68.7% and played also at ALBA Berlin U19 team (NBBL) averaging 9.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.9apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 59.1%. You really stepped up your game in the last 2 months in the Pro B. Did head coach Rene Schilling give you more trust?

Yes he did. I made my break through in my last year in 2021-2022. I think that my hard work and play rewarded me with more minutes in the Pro B. I remember that we didn´t have a good season and had to play in the playdowns in order to remain in the Pro B. Bernau had fired the point guard and Rene came to me and told me that he had trust in me and the other young guys like Nolan Adekunle and Rikus Schulte to carry the team. We did that and were able to stay in the Pro B.

You helped Alba Berlin win the 2022 NBBL title. What do you remember being so special about that team?

I think that one can see how special that team really was just by looking what happened to the players. Rapique made it to the Euroleague with Alba Berlin, Nils Machowski will play at UConn, Chris Tilley reached March Madness with Ohio State, Schulte was averaging near 20 points then in the Pro B, and Bayram is in the Pro A like me. That also shows what kind of a coach Vladi Bogojevic is. His old Jugo school helped everyone.

What was it like sharing the playmaking duties with Kaya Bayram? Do you follow his career now?

Yes of course I follow his career. We are still good friends today. Kirchheim and Tubingen aren´t so far away. We met last pre season in Stuttgart and had a coffee. I still have good contact to every one of my NBBL teammates from that winning season in 2022.

You then played 3 seasons with the Basketball Lowen Braunschweig. What kind of a player did you become in those 3 years?

I had my first pro B experience with Bernau and practiced with the BBL team, but with Braunschweig it was my first time being part of a BBL roster from the start of the season. It was definitely different. I worked a lot on my body and that showed in my debut season. I was totally fearless. I remember that Sananda Fu always said, that if I play then I will score points. I always played my game. The negative thing was that I had injuries and I lost my rhythm and always had to find it again. It wasn´t easy coming back from injury. Braunschweig did a good job developing young Germans. I remember that Dennis Schroeder was very close to the organization. His motivation for the club also gave me motivation. Every German player wants to achieve what Dennis Schroeder has achieved.

You never averaged more than 1,7ppg in a BBL season. Did you get a fair chance there?

I did get a fair chance in Braunschweig, but injuries set me back. It is difficult for a 19-20 year old to get minutes in the BBL. A lot happened in these 3 years. We fought to stay in the league my first year and in the second season, we were in the playdowns. Then in my third year, I left half way in the season to Kirchheim. Nobody thought then that the team would be fighting for a wild card now.

What was it like playing for Spanish head coach Jesus Ramirez. How did he help your game most?

The biggest problem was that he didn´t know exactly what kind of a player I was. Maybe he had a different picture of the kind of player I was. He helped me with discipline and the notion of being the first at practice and last to go. But I had already learned that with Alba Berlin.

What teammate had the biggest impact on you in the 3 years in Braunschweig?

The players that had the biggest impact on me where David Kramer because of his individual qualities, Braydon Hobbs because of his IQ and the Tischler brothers because of their work horse mentality.

You had many good games in the BBL and Fiba Europe Cup. What was your fondest moment?

I will never forget my BBL debut in Bayreuth as well as my first game in Berlin. I had gone to games there as a kid and then I was playing there- I also liked playing In Bursa. My family comes from there and there were many people watching me there.

You took a step back to the Pro A. Is the easyCredit BBL still your goal?

The easyCredit BBL is still my goal.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your life?

David Kramer was never fun to defend.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Braydon Hobbs, David Kramer, Tischler´s, Luke Sikma, Jilson Bango

Please name your NBA and German Mount Rushmore?

Lebron James, Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson, Steph Curry

Dennis Schroeder, Dirk Nowitzki, Maodo Lo, Franz Wagner

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James.

Thanks Gian for the chat.

Igor Perovic Is Simply Special As Gian Aydinoglu Has Never Ever Had Anything Bad To Say About Him In 100,000 Situations

Pic credit: Fabian Heyn

Thanks Gian for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the massive 89-85 win in game 4 against Giessen and reaching the Pro A final. How good did it feel when the buzzer sounded?

It was an unspeakable feeling. We wrote club history making the BBL cup and now wrote history again reaching the Pro A final. You can see how special this team has been this season.

You have witnessed the incredible development of the Bozic Estriche Knights Kirchheim the last 2 years. If someone had told you in August 2025 that the team would reach the Pro A final what would you have said?

I would have been very surprised to hear that. I would not have thought it would be possible. After our slow start at 1-5, I would of not thought it would have been any more realistic.

Does this big success still have a different taste simply because the team will remain in the Pro A?

Yes a bit. It is a shame that we won´t play in the easyCredit BBL. But we all feel that just making the Pro A final is a huge success. I personally feel reaching the final is just as worthwhile.

What was the main focus of the team coming to Giessen? How big was the self confidence having already won there in game 2?

We had a lot of self-confidence coming into game 4. Game 2 was the game changer. We lost game 1 and it didn´t look like we had a chance. Props go to coach Igor and the team that we were able to come back and win 3 games in a row. We were able to make adjustments well. We were down 1-0 in both series and came back each time and won 3 games. That is a huge achievement. But for this organization, it is nothing new. It has been doing it for years. Beating big teams and having success.

Giessen began well leading 7-2. Kirchheim didn´t seem shocked. Does that calmness of Igor Perovic carry over to the team?

Yes he does do that. But props also to the team who have shown other times that it is capable to come back even when we were down worse. A good example was in Koblenz. We were down 20 points at the break and fought back and won in overtime. I think tough situations like in Koblenz and other times helped give us experience so we could do it again in these playoffs. We are able to stay calm when facing adversary and have the confidence to come back.

Kirchheim then responded with a 11-0 run. Kirchheim then hit three pointers well. What was key in that 11-0 run for the turnaround? Did somebody on the court or bench have the right words after the slow start?

We did a good job sticking together as a team. Giessen tried to surprise us by going to zone, but we stayed calm and hit our three´s. We did a good job adjusting.

Kirchheim who were somewhat undermined on the glass outrebounded Giessen from the start. It really felt like Kirchheim wanted it more than Giessen from that stand point until the end?

I think the same. We just have players that are real work horses. Every player was motivated from head to feet to reach the Pro A final. Coach Igor has stressed all season long that we have to do the little things to be successful like getting the 50/50 balls, offensive rebounds and loose balls. We really focused on this all season long and were able to execute it.

Nicholas Bretzel made big shots, rebounds and big plays all game long. Where would the team be without him?

Nico is so important for our success, but I could say the same for every other teammate of mine. A better question would be where would our team be without just one player? Every player gives vital impulses for our success. It is the collective that helps us be successful.

Lucas Mayer had that special fire in his eyes right from the get go. Did you sense he had extra motivation to beat his old team?

Yes I also saw that. But that is normal for any player who comes back home to play in front of family and friends. One really saw the focus of Lucas in game 3 where he scored 25 points. It is really like that for every player.

How crazy is it scoring 48 points as a team at the break and Philipp Russell having 0 points?

That stat just shows how key our collective is. When he isn´t scoring, we always have other guys step up. Philipp can get hot at any time. He showed it in the second half as he finished with 16 points. We know what we will get from him and the rest at any time.

Kirchheim continued to manage the lead well in the third quarter. It seemed like Tylan Pope carried the team. Did he recognize early that he had to step up with Russell not on his game?

I think that he saw that early on that he had to step up. We all know exactly what he can do on the court. He has a lot of talent and can carry us with his energy and physicality.

Kirchheim was up 20 points in the fourth quarter and Giessen made a furious comeback and made it close. Did Kirchheim become to sure of the win?

I don´t think that we did. We just know how quickly a game can change. They hit some shots and it was a momentum changer. The Giessen fans then also felt like there was still a chance to win and the atmosphere rose even more in the gym. The fans became more involved.

Kirchheim kept their composure in crunch-time. What else was key for getting the win at the end?

Key was that we made big plays and they didn´t. We didn´t get nervous. It was a total team effort.

When you look back at the series against Giessen, what was the difference?

I think that coach Igor was the difference. He is such a great coach. He made the needed tactical changes. Twice in a row after losing game 1 against Goettingen and Giessen, we came back to win 3 games in a row. He made the needed adjustments. I think that we had an advantage in game 4, because we could play more free and had less pressure than Giessen.

Giessen fans complained on social media after the game that some of the Kirchheim Americans had bad unsportsmanlike conduct after the buzzer sounded. How tough is it playing in the Ost halle? Can you understand that your teammates were dealing with high emotions after a win like that?

Emotions are part of the game and as long as everything stays within the boundries, then it is ok. I think one can´t forget that our Americans are all rookies and don´t understand our fan culture yet. I have to be honest that the Giessen fans belong to the best in the league. They always have a great atmosphere. They provoked us a bit, but that is part of the game. I told our guys to forget the fans and get into the locker room. It is nothing personal. We all know how tough it is to win there.

Is Kirchheim satisfied now or does it have the fire to win the Pro A title?

We are in no way satisfied! We want to win it all.

How special of a coach is Igor Perovic? Doesn´t he finally deserve a easyCredit BBL job offer?

I have worked with Igor now for 1,5 years together. I have a good and special relationship with him. He is like a mentor to me and really knows how to deal with players in a positive way. What he has achieved season by season with a low budget is incredible. I wish that he can make the next step as a coach. He has everything that a coach needs to be successful. Out of 100,000 situations with him, I have never had nothing bad to say about him. He integrated me into the team right away when I came from Braunschweig only getting a few minutes. I won´t forget that.

How was the ride home? Was their partying on the bus?

It was a very good atmosphere on the ride home.

How will Kirchheim beat Phoenix Hagen?

It is simple. We have to score more points than them. I hope that it will be tight games. They are a super team, but I´m sure that they won´t make the mistake and underestimate us.

Thanks Gian for the chat,

Justin Stallbohm Was Proud Of The Bona Baskets Limburg Potent Season Despite Not Moving Up To The Regionalliga

Justin Stallbohm (182-G-1992) is a 33 year old 182cm guard that just completed his 14th season with the Bona Baskets Limburg. He began his basketball career with Eintracht Frankfurt and played with Limburg in the Regionalliga in 2011. He has played more than 200 plus Regionalliga games in his career. He gave germanhoops.com a season recap.

The Bona Baskets Limburg had the chance to move up from the Regionalliga 2 to Regionalliga winning a 2 game series against Kirchheim. They lost the first game in Kirchheim by 10 points. What were the main problems for Limburg not being able to win?

We only heard about the opportunity to play to move up recently. We had been on vacation for more than a month. We weren´t in shape. They had continued to train. Plus our American was already in the States and we couldn´t get him back. We really missed him.

What was the main focus going into game 2?

We knew that we had to win by more than 10 points. We wanted to play very hard. We truly felt that we could win by 20 points. Unfortunately we were lacking energy at the end to make a run.

Limburg began great leading by 17 points, but let up a bit in the last minutes before the break leading only 44-41. What were the main reasons for losing the big lead?

I think we didn´t execute well in the last minutes. I think our lack of training and fitness was a factor and we had guys playing more minutes than usual.

What words of wisdom did head coach Danny Stallbohm give the team at the break?

He told us that we had to step on the gas pedal more. We had to play harder defense and that shots would begin to fall. Unfortunately shots didn´t fall the way we wanted to.

Limburg had big problems all day long on the closeout. What makes it so difficult to control the closeout on this level?

I think that key is to keep guys out of the zone middle. We were always a step too late. They always kicked the ball out and got open looks. I don´t think that we defended all that bad. They just moved the ball well.

I noticed that you took little shots. I know you are very involved with the playmaking this season, but this could have been the prime time to step up.

I took a month off. I tried to create more for my teammates. But your right, I could of taken on more responsibility and took more shots.

Limburg led 65-59 after 3 quarters. What did coach Stallbohm tell you guys for the last 10 minutes?

We had to take it play by play. He told us that we didn´t need to score 10 points in 2 minutes. Just go step by step.

After 40 minutes the game finished at 75-75. Why couldn´t Limburg get over the hump?

Our fitness and them being consistent on execution was the difference. It was simply a make or miss game.

What was your personal summary of the season of how the team performed?

We more than exceeded our season expectations. We didn´t start well into the season, but we then went step by step and found together as a team. We beat TV Langen 2 by more than 40 points on our court. We also had record crowds attend our games. Despite not moving up to the Regionalliga, this was a very successful season.

What was the secret to the success?

We played as a team on the court. For me personally this season was so much fun. I haven´t had this much fun with a Limburg team in many years. We always wanted to find the last option.

What player was the most improved?

Melvin Adrovic and Kelvin Nelcher.

What was your personal favorite play of your season?

I remember hitting 3 deep three´s in a row in New Isenburg. Unfortunately we lost the game by 1 point.

What was your summary of your play?

I averaged 11/5/6 and shot 36% from outside. I was pretty content with my play, but I would have liked to have averaged more points per game. I focused a lot more on my playmaking this season than other seasons.

Will you return?

Yes

Who will reach the easyCredit BBL final and win it all?

FC Bayern Munich will play Alba Berlin and Munich will win it all.

Who will win the NBA title?

The Spurs will win it all. I like hos they play.

How far will Germany go at the football world cup in USA?

I always go very positive into tournaments. A lot can happen in a tournament. We aren´t the top favorite, but let´s get the cup.

Thanks Justin for the chat.

Double Double Monster Matt Lane(BG Aschersleben Tigers) Is Is Constantly Working On Becoming An Even More Explosive Presence Inside

Matt Lane is a 24 year old 216cm center that completed his rookie season for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga averaging 13,4ppg, 14,6rpg and 1,3bpg and also had a double license for Pro A team SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt averaging 2,8ppg and 2,8rpg. He began his basketball career at Bethpage high school and then played at Molloy College (NCAA2) from 2020-2025 and as a senior averaged 8.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 60.0%, FT: 66.7%. He spoke to germanhoops.com during the season about basketball.

Thanks Matt for talking to germanhoops.com You’re playing your rookie season for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). How blessed do you feel being able to play overseas? It isn´t that common for NCAA 2 players to get pro contracts overseas.

It has been an amazing opportunity and I feel extremely blessed and grateful for the opportunity to play professional basketball overseas. This is something I’ve been working toward for years and I take pride in representing my school, where I come from, and showing that Division II players can succeed at the professional level through hard work and dedication. Playing for Tigers allows me to keep growing as a player and a person and I am thankful that I can continue playing the game I love and improving my self every minute on the floor.

What have you enjoyed most about playing for BG Aschersleben Tigers (Germany-Regionalliga). Has there been an experience as a rookie that you won’t forget?

What I’ve enjoyed most is building strong chemistry with my teammates and learning more about the European style of play. As a rookie, one moment I’ll always remember is my first home game. The passion of the fans in Germany is incredible, and experiencing that atmosphere right away made it clear how special it is to play here.

As a guy from New York, how have you embraced the German culture? What have you enjoyed most about living in Germany?

As someone who grew up in New York, Germany was definitely a change of pace at first but with my coaches, teammates, and support from home, I was able to embrace the culture with an open mind. I enjoyed exploring the region, learning about local traditions, and of course trying new foods. The overall sense of community and camaraderie on our team has made the transition much smoother and helped me settle in here.

Did you experience a wake up call to being a rookie in Germany where you knew that you were far away from home?

One of the biggest wake-up calls was realizing how different everyday life is in Germany – from the language to adjusting to a new routine without family and friends nearby. Being so far from home definitely pushed me to become more independent and adapt to the new environment.

It hasn´t been the greatest season for the club as it has a losing season. What has been your summary of the season?

It’s been a challenging season, but also one with a lot of growth. We’ve faced adversity, but the team has continued to work and stay professional. For me personally, it’s been valuable learning experience. It has encouraged me to find ways to best understand the ups and downs at the professional level and continue identifying ways to improve every day regardless of the results. Staying focused on the process is critical in having the right mindset to a good path forward.

What has it been like being teammates with potent guards Yannick Von Hain and Joryam Saizonu? What have you enjoyed most about their games?

Playing with skilled guards like Yannick and Joryam has been a great experience. Yannick’s ability to shoot the ball efficiently from 3 opens up the court and Joryam’s ability to create opportunities across the floor and get downhill has played a crucial role in our wins this season. Both of them have a competitive edge about them that keeps them focused on improving for the team.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 216cm center. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I’d compare my game to Steven Adams. I focus on the physical and fundamental aspects of the gamerebounding, protecting the rim, setting strong screens, and finishing around the basket. I take a lot of pride in doing the little things that help my team win and make life easier for my teammates.

What exactly is your role on the Regionalliga team? The team has 2 prolific guard scorers. Is your biggest job to get the rebounds and just be a big presence inside?

Yes, my main role is to be a strong presence insideprotect the rim, grab rebounds, set solid screens, and finish around the basket. With two talented guards who handle the scoring, my job is to do the little things that help the team succeed and make sure we control the paint on both ends.

What other offensive strengths do you have besides scoring and rebounding?

Besides scoring and rebounding, I work hard to focus on offensive details to help the team flow. I focus on setting solid screens, rolling hard to the basket, and being physical in the paint. I also make it a priority to to run the floor in transition and open up good opportunities for the team.

You don’t take many threes. It seems like all bigs overseas have a 3. Is that something you are looking to add to your arsenal?

Yes, it’s something I’m definitely looking to develop. I’d like to add a reliable pick-and-pop game and be able to knock down more threes to stretch the floor. For now, I focus on my strengths inside, but expanding my range is a goal for the future.

Stats don´t always tell the whole story as your averaging 1,2 blocks per game. Talk about the defensive player you are now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m a defender who takes pride in controlling the paint and making it tough for opponents to score inside. Blocking shots is always great, but being a presence in the paint with my size and length allows me to affect plays in many other ways just by forcing guards to redirect. I want to still continue to developing my ability to guard quicker players in the space and be more versatile.

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

The one area of my game that I am working on the most is becoming stronger and more explosive as a big man. I also plan to round out my development by improving the ability to stretch the floor and knock down more outside shots.

You also have a double license to play with the SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt in the Pro A. You have played 3 games. What kind of an experience has it been practicing with the team?

Yes the dual license to play with SBB is a big reason why I decided to come to Germany. I just played my 4th game with them over the weekend. Being able to practice everyday with the Pro A team has been a great experience. Going against experienced bigs everyday in practice has helped me develop my game and learn how physical the game can get at the proA level.

What has it been practicing against and learning from veteran Modestas Pauluskas? What have you soaked up most from his game?

I’ve learned a tremendous amount from Mo and his years of experience in Germany. Being able to practice with Mo has been extremely valuable and I am grateful to be connected with him. Learning from his experience and his approach to the game helps shape my mentality when on the floor.

You had 2 20 plus rebound games back to back combining for 46 rebounds. Did those games feel a little like Kevin Love?

Maybe a little, Kevin Love undoubtably works hard to be in the right position and have ideal timing with great instincts – all of this is tremendous for a big man at the rim. I take pride in rebounding and work extremely hard to pursue the ball to keep the play alive and do the little things to help us win games.

You played at Molloy (NCAA 2) from 2020-2025. What memories do you have from these years? You didn´t have a big role, but really blossomed in your last season averaging 8.2ppg, 11.7rpg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 60.0%, FT: 66.7%. What kind of a player did you become at Molloy?

My years at Molloy were really special. I didn’t have a big role early on but that fueled my work effort to get after it every day and keep improving. By my last season, I became a player who could make an impact on both ends rebounding, protecting the rim, and finishing efficiently around the basket. Those years taught me patience, discipline, and how to contribute in ways that help the team win, even if it doesn’t always show up in the box score.

You had many great games at Molloy and had 2 20 plus rebound games. What was your fondest moment on the court in the NCAA 2?

Every game in a Lions jersey was a memory for me. My fondest moment on the court in division 2 is setting the single game rebound record at my school with 23 rebounds on my last home game in my senior year.

How did head coach Charles Marquardt groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Marquardt played a huge role in my later success at Molloy and my development into playing overseas. Coach Marquardt took a chance on me out of high school and took me under his wing to help me develop. He had a tremendous amount of experience at the division 2 level. He truly pushed me to stay focused and improve every day.

You never had a teammate taller than 6.8 during the years. Did you ever play 1-1 with anyone on the team and if so with who and who won?

We ran a number of 1 on 1 games over the years and they were always a battle. Regardless of the opponent, I found my best oath to a W was by leveraging my size and strength to get to the rim and score.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

I haven’t really played against any big time names that have reached the NBA or Euroleague. I have played along side some players who have made it to the NBA but not any big time names

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

I’ve been fortunate to have played with many great teammates from teams I was on as a kid to today as a professional who remind me of how great this game is. Singling them out wouldn’t be fair to the others.

Please list your personal NBA, Mount Rushmore of 5 best players ever?

Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal,

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan

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

I haven’t seen that one but I will have to give it a watch.

Thanks Matt for the chat.

At The Moment Swedish Player Harry Larsson(Onsala Pirates BBK Kungsbacka) Is Focusing Most On Being The Best Version Of Himself

Harry Larsson (180-PG-2002) is a 23 year old 180cm point guard that played for the Onsala Pirates BBK Kungsbacka (Basketettan averaging 30,1ppg, 5,1rpg, 3,1apg and 3,6spg. He began his basketball career with Hogsbo Basket Goteborg and also got experience playing with Basketklubben Marbo (Basketettan). He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.

Your playing your first season with Onsala Pirates BBK Kungsbacka (Basketettan) and your playing your third season in the Basketettan league and have developed further each season. What exactly was your role with the team this season?

I don’t feel like I have any specific role, I´m just trying to fill into all the gaps that we have.

Do you have the keys to the team? Are you the main leader?

I probably do have the key to the team but not only me, there are couple of other guys which we share the role.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 180cm point guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would you choose?

Dimitris Diamantidis, I feel like I have tried to form my game after him.

You fill the stat sheet well. You had a triple double 2 seasons ago. What are your biggest strengths on the court?

Most definitely my shooting but my play making abilities are also on the same level.

You continue to make big strides in your three point shooting having improved the percentages each season in the last 3. How would you describe the development of your shooting? How far are you from being a 40% shooter?

At this point I am well above 40%

Talk a little about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I am not the biggest but my strength is probably my intelligence.

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

Just sharpening pretty much everything

You began your basketball career with Hogsbo Basket Goteborg (Superettan). How do you remember those years? Did you have a special sort of mentor then?

Yes I remember those years, not really.

You then played a season with Basketklubben Marbo (Basketettan) averaging 11.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 63.3%. Was this your pro break out season? How important was this season for you in terms of development?

This was probably my worst season of my career

You then came to the Onsala Pirates BBK (Basketettan) averaging 19.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.8apg, SPG-3 (3.8), FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 72.5%. You made another jump in your game here. How did your game develop best that season?

As I said earlier being in Onsala is just a place where I feel comfortable

You had some great games that season. Was your 14/12/11 game in the win against Kalmar 2 one of the top 3 best games in your career so far?

Yes, a tripple double is something that I value a lot

Your 23 years old. What goals do you have? Is reaching the top league in Sweden the main goal or do you have bigger goals?

Right now I am just focusing on being the best version of myself, and for the rest we will see.

Who is the best player that you ever faced in your career that reached the NBA or Euroleague?

Bobi Klintman

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

David Apell, Stefan Agoc, Kenny Pohto, Giannis Vazoukis, Jose Rivera

Please list your NBA and Swedish Mount Rushmore (best 5 players for you)?

NBA Mount Rushmore, Michael Jordan, Dwane Wade, Lonzo Ball, Chris Paul, Kevin Durant and Swedish one is Jonas Jerebko, David Apell, Kenny Pohto, Pelle Larsson, Bobi Klintman

Who is your GOAT?

Michael Jordan.

Thanks Harry for the chat.

The Dragon Dome Didn´t Need A Steph Curry Quick Release As They Had Their Special Own Version With Dusan Ilic(Dragons Rhondorf)

Pic credit: FIBA

Every team no matter at what level in basketball have guys who specialize in certain components of the game and it is always a delight to observe. It isn´t any different with the Dragons Rhondorf. For example Swiss Army knife Juhwan Harris-Dyson shines with extensive athleticism at both ends while a player like German Kenan Reinhart is a sniper while Spaniard Jorge Mejias is simply a magician that can dish out the prettiest dimes with the best of them. Young 17 year old Dusan Ilic (188-G-2008) sparkles with the drive and pass, but what he also possesses is a quick release with his shot that looks very unorthodox. Sometimes a technique doesn´t just evolve out of nothing, but with having to adjust. “I developed my quick release at the youth level. I was doubled a lot so I had to get up my shot as quickly as possible”, remembered Dusan Ilic. Teammate Juhwan Harris-Dyson has monitored the kid´s quick release the whole season and sees a lot of upside for the future. “I have watched Dusan work on his shot on the shooting machine. It is very unorthodox. I feel like his shooting is getting a lot better and he is gaining more confidence. He works really hard on his shot and I think that he could become a really good shooter”, warned Juhwan Harris-Dyson. The Swiss Army knife also had a special experience at Berkeley with another player that has a fast release and is clocked at 0,4 seconds which is over the NBA average at 0,5 seconds. “When I was at UC Berkeley, I remember playing some pick up with Steph Curry and Draymond Green during the summer. Steph´s quick release is crazy. He has the same shot every time. There is no variation. It looks effortless. He shoots with total precision”, smiled Juhwan Harris Dyson.

Dusan Ilic who lists Declan Duru, Martin Kalu and Vuk Danilovic as his toughest opponents so far on the court in his career was born on December 8, 2008 in Germany and grew up in Hagen. He began to play at age 5 with his dad who was had played at the Regionalliga level with Ludenscheid and also was 3X3 German champion. But his sister Maria also has basketball roots as she plays professionally in the second Bundesliga with Neuss and was player of the year. But at the beginning, it wasn´t only basketball that attracted Dusan to sports. He also enjoyed playing soccer and tennis. However at age 8, he was really infected with basketball and decided to play only basketball. As a kid he loved watching the top Serbian teams Partizan Belgrad and Roter Stern Belgrad and his early basketball inspirations were Steph Curry and Kyrie Irving, but his real mentor wasn´t a NBA or Euroleague star. “My mentor was my dad. He trusted me and was the first person who criticized my game. He never lied to me, but just told it the way it was. I really appreciated him for that. Without the support of my dad, I wouldn´t be where I am today. But the support was there from my whole family. My mother supported me mentally”, stressed Dusan Ilic.

The kid with the quick release who names Mathieu Grujicic, Juhwan Harris-Dyson, Mychael Paulo, Shawn Scott and Jorge Mejias as his best teammates of all-time played youth basketball at BBA Hagen and had superb seasons from 2023-2025 averaging 20.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 6.2apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 24.2%, FT: 67.3% and in his second season averaged 20.4ppg, 4.7rpg, APG-1 (10.7), 1.8spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 25.2%, FT: 68.9%. “These 2 years were a big step in my career. I was given the freedom to develop and see where the boundries were with my game. I also worked hard on my game. I feel like my game really grew in my last season where I really learned to attack the rim”, stated Dusan Ilic. He had real monster games in his last NBBL season exploding for 35 points against Hamburg and dished out 20 assists against Metropol Ruhr. “I had many great games, but my fondest moment was just always staying together as a team on the court no matter what. We had real good team chemistry”, remembered Dusan Ilic. At the same time, he was also thrown into the shark tank of men´s basketball playing 2 seasons with BG Hagen (Regionalliga) averaging 5.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 33.7%, 3PT: 21.7%, FT: 72.2% and in his second season averaged 8.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 34.8%, 3FGP: 28.1%, FT: 67.0%. “There was a big difference between the level of NBBL and Regionalliga. The Regionalliga was a lot more physical and fast. You had little time to make decisions. The Regionalliga helped me mentally as well”, added Dusan Ilic. He played 51 Regionalliga games with BG Hagen and scored in double figures 16 times including 21 points against Koln DTV and 18 points against Leverkusen. He also had a great teammate in Mychael Paulo who showed him the ropes early on. “He had a lot of experience. He helped me a lot about what it takes to be a pro- He always stressed to keep working hard on my game”, said Dusan Ilic.

The quick guard who lists Steph Curry, Kyrie Irving, Lebron James, James Harden and Nikola Jokic on hi NBA Mount Rushmore, Milos Teodosic, Mike James, Vassilis Spanoulis and Vasilije Micic on his Euro Mount Rushmore and Dirk Nowitzki, Dennis Schroeder and the Wagner brothers on his German Mount Rushmore played his first season with Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf. “It has been a new experience, but a great one. The team is top and all are nice guys. We all understand each other and have good chemistry”, stressed Dusan Ilic. The team had been up and down until the last month, but also extremely young. “We simply are too inexperienced, but have the right motivation. We often are at the right place, but at the wrong time. We defend aggressively for 15 seconds, but then let up in the last seconds”, stated Dusan Ilic. He has been really fortunate to have been teammates with the Spanish magician Jorge Mejias who is the ultimate playmaker. “Jorge has a really good IQ, He always finds the open guys. I try to pick up most form him how he reads the game. He plays slow and then reads and reacts”, commented Dusan Ilic. The team finished the regular season with a big 4 game winning streak to sneak into the playoffs where they were swept by Orange Academy.

The young player who lists Michael Jordan as his GOAT compares his game to a mix between Shai Gillgeous Alexander, Kyrie Irving and Chris Paul. Is he a scoring point guard or more of a pass first point guard? “I´m a scoring point guard, but play the pass when I need to. I want to be a leader and take on responsibility”, said Dusan Ilic. This season he averaged 8.9ppg, 2,0rpg, 4,4apg and 1,1spg. He turned 17 on December 8th and showed that he could take on responsibility at age 16 as he was very efficient coming from the bench. He scored in double figures 6 times before his 17th birthday. He was shooting a very respectable 34% from outside, but tailed off in the last few months to finish at 20% and knows that he has to be constantly in the lab to keep working on it. “I take 300-400 shots a day on the shooting machine and shoot after practice. I know that I won´t get better overnight, but I believe in myself”, warned Dusan Ilic. Other than working on his shot, he is also working on finishing with contact better. He doesn´t only want to be a superb offensive player, but also make an impact on the defensive end. I think that I´m developing well physically. I´m aggressive and am a solid defender. I feel like I can defend the other teams best player”, warned Dusan Ilic. He continues to be a normal fixture with the German youth teams as he won the Albert Schweitzer tournament this year and is seeking to play at at the U-18 Euro. But his real goal is a massive one, but as a competitor he can only dream high. “The NBA would be great but that is the dream of all. I want to get as high as possible. My minimal goal is the Euroleague”, stressed Dusan Ilic. He still has a long way to go, but his drive to get there is massive.

Kayaan Yeboah(Orange Academy/ratiopharm Ulm) Is An Anchor On Defense That Always Goes Hard On Every Possession Helping Ignite His Team

Pic credit: ratiopharm Ulm

Kayaan Yeboah (195-G-2008) was born on May 29th, 2008 and is a 195cm guard that played the 2025-2026 season for 3 teams with Pro Team Orange Academy, BBU Ulm 01 (Regionalliga) averaging 4,7ppg and 1,9rpg and with NBBL (U-19) team ratiopharm Ulm averaging 4,9ppg, 2,3rpg and 1,9apg. He helped the NBBL team reach the NBBL final. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Kayaan for talking to eurobasket.com. After losing to FC Bayern Munich last season with Orange Academy in the NBBL playoffs, how good did it feel to beat them this time?

I think the whole team was satisfied with the outcome against Bayern this year since. It was a great playoff run before the top 4 to get ready

The team rolled easily by top teams Urspring and FC Bayern Munich. In the playoffs. What do you believe has been the secret to the dominating success? How vital is the combination of depth and chemistry?

First of all I think that our team chemistry is definitely on a high level but we also have great individual talents so when you combine that it’s hard to beat.

What kind of a feeling was it destroying top German club FC Bayern Munich winning game 1 by 15 points and the last one by 26 points. Ulm didn´t just beat Munich, but won with ease. What was the difference in the playoff series?

It showed which team really wanted it more and fought until the end, so we where happy with how we came through as a team in the end

How vital was Yanu Slingerland been? Is he like a type of special glue guy?

He’s definitely been a guy that you can rely on with the ball to hit important shots and make big plays he gets the team hyped many times whether it be a poster dunk or a 3 pointer

Talk a little about the importance of Meissa Faye. What have you learned to appreciate most about his game?

He’s been going hard all season and has shown many times how clutch he can be he stepped up many times when we needed him to

Your averaged 5/2/1 stats in the NBBL in 28 minutes. What exactly was your role on the NBBL team?

This year my role has been more on the defense side early in the season coach told me that I have to act as an defensive Anchor for the team

You’re a very skilled defensive player. Talk a little about how your defensive game impacts the team?

I set the bar on defense so if the team sees that I go hard every possession on defense it ignites them to also go hard

One player I really like is Swiss army knife Joel Cwik. What do you appreciate most from his game?

He’s very consistent and explosive this year he also improved his 3 point shot a lot which makes him even more vital

What have you enjoyed most about the Milicic brothers Teo and Zoran? How competitive are these 2 guys?

They are very competitive but also guys that will help you and give advice since they grew up in a basketball family and often have more experience

Teo Milicic is an unbelievable talented player, but how mature is his mentality at this level already?

Already being a part of the BBL team Teo has matured a lot he’s shown it many times in the pro b/NBBL season acting as a big Piece on both teams and fulfilling his role

How vital has the success of NBBL and Pro B been with head coach Florian Flabb. How special are his abilities to be able to get young men play both ends of the court?

Coach is definitively very dedicated to his work and the results speak for themselves

He’s had a lot of success with the teams he’s coaching since he’s in Ulm

Let´s talk a little about your game. You’re a 195cm guard. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would best fit the description?

I would say I try to model my game after Anthony Edward’s showing skills on both sides of the court

You’re a guy that fills the stat sheet well. How big is versatility in your game?

It’s very big since I don’t really do only one thing good I try to impact as many things as I can and that’s what I focus on

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. What steps are you taking in your daily practices that will help you become a better shooter?

I try to take shots with more confidence and outside of practice get as many reps in as possible to make my shot become more consistent

Talk a little about your defensive game. What pro player is your role model and what is your greatest strength on the defensive end?

On defense I also model my game after Anthony Edwards. I´m consistent in staying in front of the ball and only give up difficult shots so I would say my perimeter defense

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

My shooting on general so mid range and 3s are for sure the thing that I work on the most and after that my ball handling

Please name your 5 teammates of all-time?

Malachai Maximus Mayombo-Canty

Jervis Scheffs

Niko Jerkic

Milo Murray

Endurance Aiyamenkhue

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

Kevin Durant

LeBron James

Steph Curry

Anthony Edwards

Who is your Goat?

LeBron James

Thanks Kayaan for the chat.

Jakorie Smith Continues To Grow As A Player Overseas And Never Tired Of Seeing The Northern Lights In Iceland

Jakorie Smith (198-F, college: Tarleton St.) is a 198cm forward from Mississippi who played his second professional season and first with Snaefell (Iceland-Division I) averaging 26.4ppg) 7.7rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-2 (2.6spg), FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 85.5%. Last season he played his rookie season overseas with Golden Eagle Ylli (Kosova-Superliga) averaging 6.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 47.1%, 3FGP: 12.5%, FT: 81.3%, and then moved to the Newfoundland Rogues, starting five (BSL) averaging 16.7ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 84.6%. He began his basketball career at Raymond high school and then played 3 years at East Mississippi Community College (JUCO) averaging 15.2ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 73.6%, 13.3ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 76.5%, and 17.7ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 84.6%. He then played 2 seasons at Tarleton State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.1% and 15.7ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 84.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Your playing your first pro season with Snaefell (Iceland-Division I). What kind of an experience has it been for you? What have you enjoyed most about the experience?

It has been a great experience. It’s a great experience just seeing the northern lights when they are out. It’s a beautiful sight but of course it is very cold to a kid from Mississippi!

What has been your summary of the season so far? The club has struggled.

It’s been a up and down season. Still trying to work the kinks out but we’re working everyday! Should be a good ending going forward

Your averaging 28/7/1/2 stats. I imagine you have the typical import role as main go to guy. How have you embraced your role this season?

I’ve embraced it just by doing whatever I can to help my team win and to be successful. The guys need me to do different things and I try my best to help the team.

Your hunger to continue to move up the ladder is massive. How big is your chip on your shoulder?

The chip is extremely big. I feel like I’ve been looked over or doubted my whole career, from High School to college. I’m just continuing to prove everyone wrong.

You’re a 198cm guard. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would bets fit the description?

Umm I don’t really honestly know the comparison. I try to take things from different players game by watching a lot of basketball. Whether it’s college or NBA. I watch a lot of basketball to try to improve my game daily.

You’re a player that fills the stat sheet well. Talk about your main strengths on offense?

I feel like I can do everything offensively. Whether it’s scoring or finding an open teammate. I feel like I can do a lot but there is always room for improvement. Even in the aspects that I’m good in. I still work on those everyday.

You have always been a solid 3 point shooter being in the high 30%. What is missing to getting over the hump and reaching 40%?

Just getting more consistent. There is always room for improvement no matter what. Just continuing to stay in the gym. Also not rushing when I see I had the opportunity for a shot. Sometimes I tend to run the shot just because I see an opening.

Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

I’m improving on defense. Just trying to be better and play with more effort. I want to just become a better defender overall.

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

In every aspect! I’m not the player that I want to be yet. Just constantly improving day by day. Working everyday

You split your rookie season with Golden Eagle Ylli (Kosova-Superliga) averaging 6.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 47.1%, 3FGP: 12.5%, FT: 81.3%, left in Nov.’24, in Feb.’25 moved to Newfoundland Rogues) averaging 16.7ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 84.6%. What was your wake up call to being a rookie in Kosovo?

My wake up call was leaving Kosovo. Seeing that my numbers was not up to my expectations. I Just had to adapt to being a pro. Just get use to the whole overseas thing. Learn the ins and outs of the lifestyle and by the time I made it to the Canada, I learned everything. Mentally I was ready.

You were teammates with American Malcolm Armstead in Kosovo? How important was it having the ultimate veteran like him? Was he like a mentor for you?

Yes, Malcolm is my guy! He’s played a very key role in my performances now here in Iceland. He was one of the first guys to take me under his wing and show me how to be a pro. How the everyday life of a pro should be. He’s very important. He still calls and checks up on me. I still call and ask him questions on how to do certain things and how to handle certain situations. I’m still learning!

You had to really pay your dues in JUCO playing 3 years for East Mississippi Community College. Every player that I have interviewed said that Juco was tough but one that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it for you?

It was great. I wouldn’t trade those years. I cherish all the memories and relationships I developed with my teammates and coaches there. It was tough but those years were great!

Usually guys play 1-2 years Juco and move on, but you played 3 seasons averaging 15.2ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 73.6%,: 13.3ppg, 7.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 76.5% and 17.7ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 84.6%. How valuable were these 3 years for you playing for head coach Billy Begley. How did he help you most with your early basketball development?

The plan wasn’t to play 3 years but of course with Covid I was able to get my year back. It was great playing for Coach Begley and Coach Dj Evans. They taught me a lot and helped me develop my game to be a great basketball player. The relationship is still there and anytime I’m home I try to make it to see both of them. I still talk to those guys today! Love them both!

You won the MACCC title. What will you always remember from this special team of guys that won the chip?

The toughness and the chemistry we had. That run we went on was special!

You then made the next jump and played 2 seasons with Tarleton State University (NCAA) averaging 9.8ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 74.1% and 15.7ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 84.1%. You made a big jump in your second season. What kind of a player did you become there and how did your game grow?

I just became more confident if I’m being honest. Seeing that a lot of my teammates had went into the portal, I knew I had to step up and be a leader and I feel like I stepped into that role effectively. Same player both years but my confidence just rose. Started believing more in myself and the work I had put in over the off season.

You had so many great games like against FIU, Utah Tech, or Austin Peay. What was your fondest moment on the court? Possibly your game winner over UTRGV? What memories do you have of that great ending?

Just playing with all those guys. Every game was a great moment. If I had to pick it would probably be the game winner. Having my family in the stands to witness it and running to the stands to hug my brother made it even more special. Also, my career high against FIU, that game was special and really kind of showed the player I would be for the rest of the season.

How did head coach Billy Gillispie groom and prepare you best for a pro career?

He taught me to be mentally strong. He groomed me for the tough days. Everyday is not going to be perfect but it’s how you respond to the situation. It’s how you mentally approach the day. Him and Coach Joseph Jones groomed me a lot to having a great pro career! Also a special shout to Coach Tony Tadlock! #Family

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Kiandre Gaddy?

We actually never had to chance to play 1-1, but I’m sure I would win for sure. Kiandre knows that, but he’s a great player and a great friend! We definitely have to link up to play.

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

I’ve played against a lot of great players. Especially my 2 years at Tarleton. We played guys like Dalton Knecht his year at Tennessee. He was a great player and it was great getting the opportunity me and my teammates got.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-timer?

Ahh man this a tough one because do I go all the way back to high school? My time at Scooba? Or my time at Tarleton. I honestly can’t narrow it down to just five! Every teammate I’ve had had played a different role and had a special place in my heart! I cherish and appreciate every one of them!

Please list your NBA Mount Rushmore?

LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Stephen Curry

Who is your GOAT?

LeBron James

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

A lot of people might be surprised but I have never watched the first Coming To America. Maybe I should watch both and I’ll get back to you on this answer!

Thanks Jakorie for the chat.

2026 JBBL Champion And MVP Finn Wohlert Had No Special Breakfast Only Bacon And Fruit To Explode For 33 Points

Finn Wohlert is a 16 year old 190cm guard that plays for the Bonn/Koln JBBL (U-16) team. He has been with the team since the mini’s. The sniper and best 1-1 defender on the team spoke shortly to germanhoops.com after winning the 2026 JBBL final in Berlin.

Thanks Finn for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on winning the 2026 JBBL title. What kind of a feeling is it for you?

I didn’t realize it at the start. It was such a nice experience to play with this team. Being together for a season and then winning the title.

If someone had told you in August 2025 that you would win the 2026 JBBL title, what would you have thought?

I would of believed it. I thought we had something special. I think after winning the title, I had the right feeling about the team.

Did your game winner against Oldenburg give the team extra energy?

Yes I think it did. Winning the game on a last shot is a special feeling. He stepped up big for a young player.

Both Ulm and Bonn combined for 48 points in the first quarter. Did the high scoring surprise you?

We have the potential to have halves like that. Ulm have really good 1-1 players who are hard to stop. We should of done a better job stopping them.

Bonn played nice team basketball in the first, third and fourth quarters, but got away from it in the second quarter. Why did that happen?

I felt like we did too much 1-1. We felt like we needed to do it. But at the end of the day we knew we could only win as a team.

What did head coach Tom Becker tell the team to do for the second half?

He told us that we have nothing to lose, but they do and have all the pressure. He told us to just play our game and we will win.

What was key for getting the win in the fourth quarter?

We hit more shots and played better defense and Ulm had more problems to score. We got more steals and did a good job getting in the passing lanes.

Kahlil Idbihi had a huge game of 18/15/5. How vital is his play for team?

He is a big part of team. He helps us so much at both ends of the court. He always pushes us and gives us the sense that we can win with team basketball.

You exploded for 33 points?. Did you have a special breakfast?

No I had bacon which I eat every day and also fruit.

How special was this performance for you getting MVP?

It means a lot, but for me team always comes first. I would always rather win a title than a MVP title. It is a good feeling knowing my impact helped the team win.

Is it fair to say that you stole the show from Marko Volf?

My team stole the show, but Marko is a great player as well.

I love the game of serge Ossai. He was your unsung hero. What makes him so special as a player?

He is a very versatile player on offense and defense. He does a lot of the dirty work. He gets key rebounds, defends the other teams best player and scores when needed.

What was the biggest strength of Team Bonn/Koeln this season?

We always stuck together as a team and always put team over everything else.

How special of a coach is Tom Becker. Dirk Bauermann said he belongs to the best German talents.

He always pushed us in every practice and game. He always stressed that team is always the most important.

Will you guys celebrate on the ride home?

We don’t really party, but I think we will now.

who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Oliver Papez?

It could always go both ways. We are both talented.

Thanks Finn for the chat.

2026 JBBL Champion Oliver Papez Believes The Secret To The Success Of Team Bonn/Koln Was That Family Feeling That Continued To Grow Through The Season

Oliver Papez is a 15 year old 189cm guard that plays for JBBL (U-16) team Team Bonn/Koln. He has been with the organization since the U-10 team. The vocal leader who has the German/Czech Republic spoke to germanhoops.com shortly after winning the 2026 JBBL title in Berlin.

Congrats Oliver on winning the 2026 JBBL title. What kind of a feeling is it for you?

It is a great feeling. We have all been together since the U-12. We are like a family. Our unity grew and got stronger through the season. Winning this title was the crowning point.

If someone had told you in August 2025 that you would win the 2026 JBBL title, what would you have thought?

I would of said that we definitely have a quality to be successful, but I would never have seen us as a favorite.

Did the game winner of Idbihi against Oldenburg give the team extra energy?

I think that shot showed what can happen, when you never give up through out a game of ups and downs. We just keep playing through adversary.

Both Ulm and Bonn combined for 48 points in the first quarter. Did the high scoring surprise you?

We have such offensive power that a high scoring half can always be a reality for us. If we have 4 guys hitting three´s, then we are tough to stop.

Bonn played nice team basketball in the first, third and fourth quarters, but got away from it in the second quarter. Why did that happen?

We got in a little hole in the second quarter. Ulm displayed better ball movement. We did too much 1-1. At half-time, we realized that we were in Berlin because we were a team.

What did head coach Tom Becker tell the team to do for the second half?

He remined us that we were a family and had to leave it all on the floor no matter what.

What was key for getting the win in the fourth quarter?

We did a good job hitting our three´s and also stepped up our defense a level. Ulm didn´t cover the 3 point line and didn´t rotate well.

How would you describe Finn Wohlert in a sentence?

He is an unbelievable and incredible player.

Is it fair to say that he stole the show from Marko Volf?

I think that he did. I knew he could have a game like that. He has so much potential. He had a great day. It wasn´t luck, but due to the work he puts in. Marko Volf also is an incredible player.

I love the game of Serge Ossai. He was your unsung hero. What makes him so special as a player?

He was injured a lot this season. He has been on team since the U-12. He gives a lot of offensive support. Finn, Kahlil, him and I lead the team. We have a deep rotation.

What was the biggest strength of Team Bonn/Köln this season?

No matter who played, everyone performed. If we lost, we always got up. We always gave all we had.

How special of a coach is Tom Becker. Dirk Bauermann said he belongs ot the best German talents.

He has coached me since the U-10. He knows what each player can do. We are like family. He fit perfect to the team and we accepted his style.

Will you guys celebrate on the ride home?

We will watch the rest of the games and just enjoy the day.

Who wins a 1-1 in practice you or Finn Wohlert?

It would be a 50/50 chance.

Thanks Oliver for the chat.

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