Niklas Pons (192-SG-1999) is a 26 year old 192cm guard that completed his 8th season with TV Langen playing 112 games in his career there and this season averaged 12/3/5/1 and helped win the South West Regionalliga title. He also played 3 seasons with the Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors and was a member of the U-16 youth national team. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his basketball career.
You began your basketball career at SG Weiterstadt. What memories do you have of the young years in your career? The memory of Weiterstadt is that I was able to learn the fundamentals of basketball there and met my friends, who are still with me today. They were there in the final, cheering me on.
You then came to TV Langen in 2013 where you remained until 2016. How important were the Barth brothers when you were a young player? Were they like mentors for you?
Both were role models for me as players on the first team. Specifically, with Basti, I had several individual training sessions at BTI. He worked a lot on my shooting.
You were teammates with Maxim Schneider then and now. How special a player has he always been for TV Langen? Maxim has been one of the key figures over the last 14 years. His loyalty to the club, even after the relegation, is unique.
You then went to Frankfurt. Was that a no brainer to go to a very good organization that had good youth work? The decision to take the next step was very difficult for me. In the end, however, it turned out to be the right decision, and I’m glad I made it.
You played 3 years there. In the 2016-2017 season you were teammates with Isaac Bonga. Was it overwhelming playing with him? Did you know he would reach the NBA?
Isaac Bonga is probably the best player I’ve ever had the privilege of playing with. You could tell very early on that Isaac had an outstanding future ahead of him.
You played 34 Pro B games and never averaged more than 3,4ppg. Do you feel like you got a fair chance in Frankfurt?
My role over the years wasn’t scoring. I usually had other tasks, such as defending the opposing team’s best player and bringing the ball up the court.
In your last year you had Schoormann and Begue at the guard positions. Do you feel like there was always 1-2 players ahead of you which made it more difficult to get minutes? I think the coach gave me a fair chance, which is why I can’t complain about my minutes.
What was your fondest moment with the Skyliners organization?
My fondest moment was being able to practice with the BBL team coached by Gordon Herbert and learning a lot from that experience.
You then came back to Langen in 2019. Did your aspirations of playing higher get stopped in Frankfurt. You decided on playing Regionalliga. When you look back now do you ever regret not having tried to play higher earlier in your career? I went back because I believed that taking a step back would bring new responsibilities. For me, it was about taking on more responsibility on the court again. I have no regrets, because without that decision, I wouldn’t be the player I am today.
You were able to be teammates with your brother Phil Pons. How cool was that and who wins a 1-1 in practice you or him? I’m going to win — after all, I’m the older brother!
You also played for and with Ty Harrelson. What kind of an experience was that and what in his coaching has allowed him to reach the BBL?
Ty is an authentic person. He lives and breathes basketball and has a unique ability to get people to believe in his vision of the game. You can clearly see that in the way his current team plays.
What dreams do you will have as a player? Could you imagine playing as long as a Maxim Schneider Win as many titles as possible and have as much fun as I can. I’m not sure if my body will hold up until I’m 40 🙂
Who is the best player you ever played against that reached the NBA? Džanan Musa
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Isaac Bonga
Philip Herkenhoff
Cosmo Grün/Garai Zeeb
Leon Kratzer
Henk Droste
Name your NBA, Euro and German Mount Rushmore. Your 5 best players of all-time?
Mikah Blackwell (198-F, college: ACU) is a 198cm player that played his rookie season overseas in Ireland with Killarney Cougars averaging 26/8/2/2 stats. He grew up in Norfolk Virginia and palaed at Granby high school. He played a season at Copper Mopuntain College (JUCO) averaging 18.5ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 72.7% and then played 2 seasons at Arizona Christian University (NAIA) averaging 10.5ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 63.2%, 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 71.8% and.9ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.7%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.
Thanks Mikah for talking to eurobasket.com Your played your rookie season in Ireland. What kind of an experience was it coming from Virginia to Ireland? What was the biggest adjustment coming from the States?
Coming from Virginia to Ireland hasn’t been much of a difference other than driving on the left side. Only real adjustment is being consistent. You’re 3,500 miles away from your comfort zone, family, and friends you have to create a consistent schedule, adjust to your surroundings, and time zone in a short period of time.
How blessed do you feel being able to come overseas? It is rare that guys from NAIA get an opportunity like this. Do take every day like it could be your last? Beyond blessed. God has plans for me and has opened so many doors that I never imagined myself walking through. From my recruiting experience, NAIA players don’t receive the recognition or respect and it did in fact challenge me mentally this summer. I haven’t felt this much pressure to prove myself ever, but I know God brought me here for a reason and I plan to make the absolute best of this opportunity.
Do you have a chip on your shoulder? It seems like you will never see a day where you won´t have to be proving yourself on the court to someone?
It’s more of a chip on my shoulder to myself. The work I put in when no one is watching is a lot tougher than a training session or team practice because I am my biggest critic.
What was it like playing for Ron Howard? He has made a name for himself for more than a decade to get guys from low college leagues to get pro contracts. How blessed do you feel having a guy like that in your corner?
Coach Ron’s vision for me is probably way bigger than my own goals & aspirations & I feel that energy. He’s very much personal and professional. He’s big brother and then he flips the switch and he is in coach mode. What he does for players and how he networks and interacts with players is phenomenal. He’s a winner, a good father, a husband, man if integrity & passion, I couldn’t have received a better coach for my rookie season.
What did you learn to appreciate most about Ron Howard´s coaching ability and his overall character?
No matter your status, your situation, or circumstances he’s always going to tell you the truth. I feel like that’s a lost trait in today’s coaching is telling players the truth and also accepting feedback or criticism as a head coach. Coach Ron is very basketball knowledgeable and equally transparent.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the bill?
My NBA synergy comparison last year was John Collin’s so that’s statistically my NBA comparison. I favor more of the small forward positions like Tracy Mcgrady, Rudy Gay, Kelly Oubre type of style. Paul George is my favorite player and 1 thing they all home in common is midrange game and footwork which I try to implement in my style of play.
Your three pointer is still a work in progress. Is your three pointer something that you will continue to work on diligently overseas?
Wasn’t getting many reps in shooting three pointers which also went hand in hand with my confidence in game. Shout out Steven Whitley assistant men’s basketball coach at Norfolk State University helped me a lot this summer really locking in to expand my range as well as create separation and working on a quicker release.
You are also a very active defender. Would you call yourself a lock down type of player? Where do you want your defensive game to go to in next years? I don’t like getting scored on so I think that’s fuels me the most to tune in on the defensive end. A lock down? Probably not, I honestly watch a lot of film and anticipate a lot of actions so it’s more of having an iq on defense. For the years to come just want to be able to play the best competition possible to really develop my defensive skills and be considered a lock down defender
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to improve your game? Having the ball in my hands more, making reads as a guard, being a great supporter & leader to my teammates. Playing free is the main focus, the outcome of my performance does not define who I am. But to trust and allow God to use me.
You began your career at Copper Mountain College (JUCO) averaging 18.5ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.5spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 72.7%. Every guy that I have interviewed that played JUCO have said that it was a real grind, but one they wouldn´t have traded for the world. How was it for you? Lord, California Juco has its own category of grind by itself. It definitely prepared me for overseas life. I’ve had the worst most stressful days of my life in juco but I also had the best times of my life. Stories and memories I can tell for days, years to come. Friends I consider family that I talk to everyday. You really have to love basketball and the grind to go to California Juco, it’s not for everyone I promise you that.
You then played 2 seasons with Arizona Christian University (NAIA) averaging 10.5ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 63.2%, 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 71.8% and 10,9ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 69.7%. How did your game grow in these 2 years under Jeff Rutter? My game grew more mentally than physically I understood what I was walking into committing to at ACU. A team full of guys who could score just as good or even better than me. I knew in order for me to see the floor I was going to have to stand out so I told myself I’m going to be the best defender in the gym and told my dad my goal was to get DPOY. Which I won 2 years in a row.
You reached the NAIA Elite 8 in 2023 losing 67-64 against Indiana Tech. How tough was that loss and what will you never forget from that game? We lost by 3 points and for the longest I would think to myself “I know I could’ve given us 4 more points”. So yeah it stung but also added fuel to the following season. Even though we lost in NAIA sweet 16 it was just a blessing to make it back to that stage.
Was the incredible 96-95 over Masters where you scored 24 points winning the GSAC title one of your favorite memories in the NAIA?
The Masters game for the conference championship was definitely one of my favorite moments at ACU. It was always a fun battle going against Caleb Lowry so to get the win for conference was definitely special.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Bryce Davis? I don’t think BD wanted the smoke.
Who was the best player that you battled in your life that went to the NBA? Let’s see, there’s a few. Matt Coleman was always special to watch but to play against he was different. Keyonte Johnson for the Oklahoma City thunder & Dereon Seabron for the Detroit Pistons were my matchups in high school.
Who were your 5 best teammates of all-time? Ahh don’t do this to me. Dennis flowers, Trent Hudgens, Tyler Hudson, Paul Hayden, Dillion Voyles
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?
Allen Iverson, MJ, PG, Kobe, Lebron
Who is your GOAT?
Podcast P, pg13, pg8, Paul George game is just therapy I can’t explain it.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? Uhhhhh yeah yeah that’s one of them ones you just don’t touch. Same with Beverly Hills cop and the new axel F like just leave it be
Rathen Carter (201-F, college: Washburn) is a 201cm forward that recently played for Pioneros de Los Mochis (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3apg. He also has professional experience having played with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) averaging 1.3ppg, 1.0rpg and in the Alpe Adria Cup averaged 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.7%. He began his basketball career with Heritage Hall High School and then played Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) and Pratt Community College (JUCO). He then played at McKendree University (NCAA2) for a season before finishing at Washburn (NCAA 2) for 3 seasons. He is taking part at the Mastercage Combine in Italy and spoke to eurobasket.
Thanks Rathen for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
No problem. I’m in Paris at the moment. Basketball life is good. I’m grateful to wake up and get to do what I love everyday, and learn more about life and myself along the way.
You played JUCO and NCAA 2 and in the NCAA 2 never averaged more than 5,2ppg, but you reached Austria and Mexico as a pro. How tough has the grind been for you? I guess you never gave up and just kept pushing.
I didn’t start taking basketball seriously until senior year of high school, so I knew I was just scratching the surface potential-wise in college. I knew I had a lot of work to do. You can say it’s been tough, but it’s been a journey just like it is for everybody. I know how great I can be. So I just continually strive for that on a daily basis. I’ve stayed loyal to the game, to the grind, and to myself so I knew I was going to be a pro. I’m looking forward to piecing it all together so I can win and succeed at the highest levels.
You have played 15 pro games and are looking for every opportunity to prolong your career. Why did you choose the Mastercage combine in Italy?
I’ve heard good things about Ron and Howard Hoops for a few years now. So, I decided to take advantage of this opportunity.
How blessed are you for this opportunity? You will be playing in front of many important basketball figures in Italy? Very blessed and grateful, I’m excited to showcase my talents there!
What is your impression of founder Ron Howard who has been doing the combine since 2012? What have you appreciated most about him?
I’ve appreciated Ron’s authenticity and expertise. As a former 13 year pro, to a coach, to founder of Howard Hoops he understands the complete picture. Having this type of perspective from all angles is a dime a dozen. So, to work with him is a rare opportunity.
What is your main goal at the Combine? Score out the lights or be the ultimate team player or something else? Obviously score at an efficient and effective level. But, what I want to do is lead our team to the Championship. I want to win. I’ve won 2 State championships in high school, and a MIAA championship in college. It’s time to win at this level.
Let’s talk a bit about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would be the best choice? Jaylen Brown, would be the best comparison.
Talk a little about your biggest strengths at both ends of the court?
Versatility. I can play and guard 1-4. Offensively, I’m an elite transition scorer, a 50% 3-point shooter last year, and 43% in college. I excel in 1-on-1 situations. As a ball handler, I create space for teammates by collapsing defenses. Defensively, my agility allows me to pressure point guards full court, while my size lets me guard forwards.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I’m a defender that wears you down. I like to pick up ball handlers 94ft to shorten the shot clock, and force tough shots. So throughout the course of the game you’re tired, and haven’t gotten in a rhythm. I want to get better at setting the tone with physicality. My coach in Austria wanted me to commit a hard foul during the first possession of games, just to set the tone for the refs, and for the other team.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?
My IQ. I watch a lot of Euroleague games, some ABA games. I want to be able to read actions faster for defensive reasons. Secondly, I want to be able to manipulate defenses more. Watching more European basketball will continue to help my understanding of the game as I continue my career in Europe.
Your last pro team was Pioneros de Los Mochis (Mexico-CIBACOPA) averaging 6.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3apg. What kind of an experience was Mexico for you?
I never explored the Latin Basketball Market before going. So, I went into it somewhat blind. But, I enjoyed my experience. I was brought in as a temporary injury replacement after training camp. So, my stint was brief but it was fun. You play 4 games a week. You play a back to back, fly to another city then play another back to back that same week. I wish I could’ve stayed longer. I think playing that many games, at the rate, would’ve been great for my development.
You played your rookie season with the Kapfenberg Bulls (Austria-BSL) playing 7 games averaging 1.3ppg, 1.0rpg.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 in preseason. We went to Italy and played Germani Brescia. I had 13 points shot 3-3 from 3. We lost so I wasn’t happy. So, I was one of the last ones out of the gym, as I walked out a crowd of the Germani Brescia fans stayed and gave me a round of applause. It just displayed the respect the fans had for good basketball.
You played well in the Alpe Adria Cup averaging 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 72.7%. Why was your stay so short in Austria? I played decently in the Alpe Adria Cup games. My stay was brief because I damaged a ligament in my ankle in the BSL Preseason Cup. I sat out a week or so, and I should’ve sat out for months. Personally, I was so eager to play, I tried to play in the regular season but I couldn’t even walk without pain. So, it was rough trying to play, hence the poor performance, and when I finally got my MRI in November the team doctor told me to stop all physical activity because of the damage. So, the team and I decided to part ways. Then I ended up coming home to get surgery to repair the damage.
Ever since Austria, you haven’t been able to find footing in Europe again. Has failed representation with an agent hampered your basketball journey? How tough has the grind been?
No, my representation at the time was great! My agent and I had a plan laid out. It just didn’t go as planned because I didn’t handle my injury correctly. If I just sat out until I was healthy, and 100% I would have performed well and my stats would have been good. I’d be more solidified in my career in Europe. But, that’s life, you live and you learn. So I’ve learned to be patient, and listen to my body more.
You played at 2 JUCO schools with Eastern Oklahoma State College (JUCO) and Pratt Community College (JUCO). Every guy I have interviewed that played JUCO has said it was tough but a great thing to do. How was it for you? JUCO is different for everyone. In my situation my programs had limited resources, and limited assistance and it’s really on you to get better, and get out of there. After that I just kept my head down and worked on my game. It makes you hone in on what you want to do with your life. In JUCO you have to make a decision: am I going to elevate from this environment or settle?
You played 2 years at McKendree University (NCAA2), but only played 9 NCAA 2 games. What positives could you still get from this experience?
From my experience at McKendree I learned I have to be adaptable. We had a coaching change, and our team philosophy and concepts changed a lot the 2nd year. For instance, my first game back I was the leading scorer in a comeback win game. But, I struggled to fit the team’s identity the second year. But it was tough. I was dealt a bad hand when it came to injuries these 2 years. If you look back I led the team in scoring in the first games and then had an injury. These years were tough because I knew I could be the top guy for our program and be the team and stats leader but injuries left me sidelined. But I kept my sights aligned on the goal, so I just rolled with punches and kept working.
You then played 3 seasons and 56 games at Washburn University (NCAA2). What kind of an experience was this and was winning the MIAA title your biggest basketball achievement? It was a great experience. Getting back to winning culture was great. I did have to learn to put my ego aside and put the team’s best interest before my own. But, winning the MIAA title and making it to the NCAA Tournament was worth putting my personal shine and stats to the side.
How did head coach Brett Ballard groom and prepare you best for a pro career? Honestly, he curated a winning environment. We had to prepare and practice at a really high level everyday. Bad days weren’t allowed from an energy, effort, and performance standpoint. The pressure to win, and perform day in and day out prepared me.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jeremy Harrell? We never played.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA? Ja Morant or Lindy Waters III.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Tyler Geiman, Jordan Allen, Brad Greene, Justin Blanks, Kevin Franceschi
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore KD, Tracy McGrady, Kobe, Tony Parker, Steph Curry
Who is your GOAT?
KD. I’m OKC. I grew up watching tons of KD. I like his approach to the game, his skillset is insane, and he just loves hoops.
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone? No, I didn’t see it
Michael Williams is a professional basketball player with experience at the combine academy. He also gathered experience at Young Harris College and Southern Wesleyan. He is taking part at the Mastercage combine in Italy. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Michael for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
Thanks for the opportunity for the interview Miles! I’m back in my hometown of Seneca, South Carolina where I have been training and looking for my next opportunity.
How tough has the grind been to look for a pro opportunity? What keeps you going? It has been quite a challenge especially coming out of college not playing my Senior year due to ineligibility which was disappointing. What keeps me going is my faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. My faith is what keeps me looking for the light at the end of the tunnel and to keep striving to work hard and find opportunities for myself despite my current circumstances.
Do you have 9-5 job to help make ends meet?
Right now I make ends meet doing Door Dash and Instacart orders Delivering food and groceries to customers in cities close to home.
Why did you choose the Mastercage combine in Italy? My Mentor Sean McCaw recommended me to Howard Hoops. I attended one of McCaw’s masterclasses earlier in the summer and he gave me a blueprint on how to reach out to different coaches, teams, and agents to look for opportunities and I found this opportunity through a few Instagram Posts that Coach Howard made and I reached out to him.
How blessed are you for this opportunity? You will be playing in front of many important basketball figures in Italy? I am extremely blessed to receive an opportunity like this because I know how rarely they can come around. I want to thank Coach Howard for the opportunity but most importantly I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for ordering my steps and opening doors for me.
What is your impression of founder Ronald Howard (181-PG-1984, college: Mayville St.) who has been doing the combine since 2012? What have you appreciated most about him?
Coach Howard has been really understanding of my situation coming out of college and has been lenient and willing to give me an opportunity to travel with him to this combine in Italy.
What is your main goal at the Combine? Score out the lights or be the ultimate team player or something else? I want to be a team player and use the opportunity to put what I have been watching in film and working on the court to the test. Shooting and defense is what makes me valuable, but I want to get teammates involved and work together to win.
Let´s talk a bit about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would be the best choice?
I don’t think that there is any one definitive NBA player that I play like, but I take what I learn from each player and work to add those attributes to my game. When I watch individual player film, there are 6 players that I watch: Trae Young, D’Angelo Russell, Chris Paul, Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving, and Stephen Curry. Obviously with Steph and Dame it is their Elite shooting that sets them apart, but with Trae Young and D’Angelo Russell it is different. They are such great playmakers that opens up more opportunities for them to score in pick and roll situations and on catch and shoot 3s. Chris Paul is great at this too but it is his high IQ and the way he studies the game that sets him apart. Kyrie Irving just has some of the best footwork and one of the best ball handling skillsets that the game has seen. Another player I liked to watch on videos of was Mahmoud Abdul Rauf also known as Chris Jacksson. He was about my size and was a great shooter for his size. He was also able to get to any spot on the floor to get off shots off the dribble or on the catch and shoot.
Talk a little about your biggest strengths at both ends of the court?
Like I said before, my shooting and defense are what make me valuable, but I still want to improve and be a more consistent shooter and be a better on ball defender.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become?
I am a decent on ball and rotational defender, but as a guard I want to be able to get more steals. I am learning how to time my opponent’s dribbles and play in gaps to try to get an advantage.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player? I want to become better passer, especially in the pick and roll game. I have been doing a lot of film study this summer so I would like to put what I have learned to the test against high level competition. I also want to further improve my shooting ability. I have been known to be a streaky shooter so improving my shooting percentage is my top priority aside from becoming a better passer.
You played at Young Harris College. What kind of an experience was that for you and what was your fondest moment there?
Young Harris was where I matured the most and transitioned from being a teenager into a legal adult. My fondest moment of my time at Young Harris College was my second game of my freshman year. It was even more special because that was the only college game that my grandma got to see me play in before she passed away. I ended up going 4/8 from 3 and had 14 points. It was cool because I started that game and I wasn’t expected to and most of the friends that I had made up to that point of the semester showed up to watch me play.
You also gained further experience at Southern Wesleyan University. What kind of an experience was that? What was your fondest moment there?
My experience at Southern Wesleyan University really taught me how to have patience. Especially while waiting for your next opportunity to come. My fondest memories developed outside of basketball when I made memories with friends and teammates during the time that I could not play. A lot of the time we are so focused on where we want to go in life and we forget to enjoy the time that were in now, even if it is not exactly where we want to be. At times this can be difficult, but that is why it is important to have a good circle around you. Most of those memories that I have made are stored on my phone in videos and pictures and I will cherish them for a lifetime.
Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your life that reached the NBA?
This is a good question. I remember playing Isaiah Todd in the summer of 2018 when I played AAU for Combine Academy. I have come across some other notable players as well. Later in 2019 when I played a postgraduate year at Combine Academy, we played at Oak Hill Academy. My team played their B team but our National team Got to Play Against Cole Anthony, Kofi Cockburn, and Cam Thomas. It was a wild experience getting to watch them play because they were still so young, but so talented for their ages.
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Zion Robinson (Southern Wesleyan)- a great friend and teammate
Matt Jones- (Young Harris) great friend and teammate
Ja’Michael “Tang” Boone- (Young Harris) great friend and teammate (hilarious)
Fonzo Hilliard- (Young Harris) great friend and teammate (athletic)
Samuel Limehouse- great teammate and one of the hardest workers I know. (If only God made him 6’5” instead of 5’6”)
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore
Magic Johnson
Michael Jordan
Kobe Bryant
Stephen Curry
Who is your GOAT? Michael Jordan no debate
Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone?
No I haven’t I will have to take a look at it and see what I think about it. I did like the first movie though. What platform does it stream on? (Netflix, Hulu, Paramount?)
Philipp Czernilofsky is a player form Austria chasing the pro dream. He has experience having played for the Vienna Paladines, Vienna Timberwolves and at the Europrobasket program. He is playing at the Howard Hoops Combine in Italy and spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.
Thanks Philipp for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?
I live and work in Vienna as a chef. Basketball is my passion since I was a kid. Basketball it not only a sport for me, but it´s a lifestyle and I can´t imagine living without it. Since I am playing basketball I met so many new friends around the world. It makes me a better person on and off the court.
Talk a little about your basketball experience?
I played in Vienna in the local basketball league. In 2019/20 We became Champions with Vienna Paladins and we moved up in the 4th league of Vienna. A few years ago I visited some basketball camps in Germany, Geneva and Valencia. Last year I had health issues with my teeth, so I had to take a short break. But I came back stronger.
What is the most challenging thing for you living the basketball dream? The most challenging thing about living the basketball dream is being consistent. Wake up early working hard and get a good nutrition. Getting better everyday strengthening my weakness, learning new skills and never give up.
You will be playing at the Howard Hoops combine in Italy. Why did you choose the Howard Hoops combine in Italy? What sold you on this? I choose Howard hoops combine because I want to play overseas and make my dream come true. I am impressed what Coach Ronald Howard (181-PG-1984, college: Mayville St.) does for his players. I read some good interviews about him at germanhoops.com that has aroused my interest. I am looking forward to work with him.
How blessed are you for this opportunity? You will be playing in front of many important basketball figures in Italy? I am very blessed that Coach Ronald Howard gave me this opportunity to be a part of the team. I am very excited about the tournament. I became aware of Coach Ronald Howard via Instagram and was immediately interested in the Italy combine 2025.
What is your impression of founder Ronald Howard who has been doing the combine since 2012? What have you appreciated most about him? Coach Ronald Howard inspires and motivates me to do what he does. I am grateful that he gave me the chance to play at a high level. I really appreciated him he took time that we were able to talk on the phone. He always helped me when I had some questions.
What is your main goal at the Combine? Score out the lights or be the ultimate team player or something else? My Goal is to improve my game to the next level and to be discovered. I do my utmost to get the best possible chance especially in the defense and rebounding. Scoring is not so important for me. There are many other important things on the court to do to help my team.
Let´s talk a bit about your game. If you had to compare your game to a NBA player who would be the best choice? If I had to compare my game to an NBA player it would be Dwyane Wade. Especially his mid rage game his explosive moves and quickness. These three elements are important for my game.
Talk a little about your biggest strengths at both ends of the court?
My strength are catch and shoot, passing driving to the basket and my mid range game. Defensively I communicate with my teammates to put pressure on the ball to make it hard for the opponents. I defend with my footwork and my quick hands so we can get steals. Rebound and box out is my priority.
How would you describe your defensive game? What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of defender do you still want to become? I am a strong defender who is always hungry. I fight for the ball to make my teammates and myself better. I want to become more athletic and stronger to improve my defensive skills.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to grow as a player?
I am working on my shooting skills and free throws to be consistent. Dribbling drills, stability and balance to strenghten my core. I never stop learning.
You played with the well known Vienna Timberwolves. What kind of an experience was this and what was your fondest moment there? My fondest moments was that the Coach asked me to play next season with their team. Playing in the 3rd league in Vienna was a good experience. During that time I improved myself and they have welcomed me warmly.
You also have played 3X3. What kind of an experience has that been and what is the biggest challenge playing this type of basketball style? The game is faster and more intense. You have to get used to the smaller ball. It is a lot of fun for me because you play pick and roll, 1on1 and give and go. The biggest challange is to get rebounds and win positions.
What dreams do you still have as a basketball player? My dream is to become a basketball player and finance my living with it.
Have you ever considered playing in Germany? It is a very respected market.
So far I have not had the opportunity. I know that German basketball is very organized and has a high level. It would be an honor if I had the opportunity to do so.
Who is the toughest player that you ever played against that reached the NBA?
Jakob Pöltl Toronto Raptors
Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?
Amir Abdel Hamid
Christoph Ambas
Chris Rabitsch
Niño Oberndorfer
Mike Molina
Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of your all-time 4 best?
Marvin Esser (196-SF-2005) is a 19 year old 196cm forward who played with Frankfurt Skyliners Juniors last season. He began the season injured and came back in January 2025 and played 12 games averaging 1,8ppg and 2,1rpg. He spoke to germanhoops.com about big German center talent Hannes Steinbach.
Thanks Marvin for talking to germanhoops.com. How has your summer been?
I´m good thanks. I recently finished school and got my degree. I also had my prom. My school results were good. I was happy about it.
You had a difficult 24-25 season with injury. You missed the first half of season. How would you rate your Pro B season? I would give my Pro B season a grade 7 out of 10. It wasn´t easy coming in mid season. I´m happy that my minutes went from 6-12.
What is the next step for you? Will you remain in Frankfurt? I don´t know yet if I will remain in Frankfurt. I´m staying in contact with the Skyliners. I definitely will remain in the Frankfurt area.
When you hear the name Hannes Steinbach what is the first thing that comes to mind?
The first thing I think about is Wurzburg. I played against him the last few years. He is a very talented player with long arms and plays very well.
You played against him in the NBBL and Pro B. You don´t play same positions but is a guy like that a role model? That is hard to say since we are the same age. Role models are usually players when I was growing up. It is usually guys that are older.
You played him in 23-24 in the NBBL winning 77-58 and he had a dominant 20/22 game. What memories do you have of that game? I remember that his whole team lived off his game in the NBBL. It felt easier then to try to keep him under control even if it was still tough
You had a 8/10 game. I believe you had to match up against him because Frankfurt had no center. How tough was it as a undersized big? I remember defending against him at times. We had more of a team duty to defend him. He was very physical and I had to use my whole body when trying to defend him.
As a undersized big, can you still soak up things from his game? He uses his speed and athleticism very well. I feel like I can pick up things from his game like using my athleticism more on the outside.
He had an incredible 19/19 game in the first U-19 world cup game in Slovenia. Are you following his progress? At the moment not because of my school things, but I will more now in the future
How much will the NCAA help his game? He already played against the highest competition in BBL and BCL. How will NCAA help him? I think that it will be an adjustment at the beginning. But I think that the whole experience in USA will help him see another side of basketball. I´m sure that he will do well.
How good is he really? Some are saying that he is better than big German talent Johan Grunloh. Do you share that opinion? That is hard to say. I never played against Grunloh. They are both big talents that can go far. I think most important is that both are great talents and not who is better than the other.
What makes Hannes Steinbach so good? What really stands out most in his game? Is it his versatility?
Yes his versatility is very special. He is a special player because he can play not only under the basket, but from outside. His combination of athleticism and size makes him special.
Could Hannes Steinbach be the next great German center? Is developing a three something he needs to do? You can always have a better three pointer. He has good chances.
How scary could Germany look like in the next years with the duo of Grunloh and Steinbach?
Germany has a great future with both. But we have so many other great talents. I think that Germany will continue to grow and move forward in the next years especially with the national team.
Zharon Richmond (201-F, college: MSUB) is a 201cm rookie that played the 2024-2025 for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-ProA). He began his basketball career with Skyview High School. He then played at Montana State University Billings (NCAA2) from 2017-2024 playing a total of 79 games. He spoke to germanhoops.com after a win against the EPG Guardians Koblenz and about his basketball career.
Thanks Zharon for talking to germanhoops.com. Congrats on the big win over the EPG Guardians Koblenz. Do you feel like the team is on a good way going towards the playoffs? The team has won 5 of it´s last 7 games. We have definitely put ourselves in a good position for the playoffs. In a great spot but have four tough games coming up. Since I’ve been here we have dropped a couple games that we should not have and that definitely hurt our playoff position.
I saw that game in Koblenz and was really impressed with the extra pass. The team is totally unselfish. Was that unselfishness there from day 1 or did it grow with time? For coming as a midseason signing I wanted to make sure my teammates knew the way that I play. That is being a team player and making the extra passes and helping the team with or without score. I would say that is how everyone on this team plays.
The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven are having a good season. What has been the secret to the success? Similarly to the last question, we play our best basketball when we are selfless and everyone is involved. I wouldn’t say there’s a secret I think any team can find success when they play together and defend.
The team has no real stars, but 10 guys that average 7,0ppg or more. Have you ever seen this before in your career? Does everyone play for each other? We have a lot of guys that can score and in many different ways. As far as the teams I’ve played on I have never seen this amount of depth when it comes to scoring. Everyone know their roles and what everyone else is capable of so we know that if one person may have an off night that someone else will pick up the slack.
The team allows the second least points in the Pro A with 75 per game. What is the biggest strength on the defensive end that has allowed the team to have this special identity? I think the biggest strength that has helped this team is the level of IQ we have. From our ability to recognize opponents plays we have gone over to changing of coverages. We are a good team when we communicate and defend and we all know how important that is.
What has it been like being teammates with young German Peter Hemschmeier? How talented is he? He hit big three´s against Koblenz?
Peter is a really talented young player with a lot of potential. From the short time I have been here I have seen improvement in his game. Peter has made some big shots this year and helped us win games. Another thing about Peter is off the court he is hilarious, sometimes on the court as well.
The team has so many great players. Who would you call the team´s Swiss army knife? Possibly Carlos Carter? I think it is safe to say Carlos is our Swiss army knife. I say this because he is very versatile offensively and defensively. With his size he is able to score and defend in the post, and his speed and ability to handle the allow him to play and defend the guard positions.
Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 201cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would best fit the description? NBA player comparisons are tough, someone once told me I play like a smaller Karl Anthony Towns.I found that agreeable with the ability to stretch the floor score in the post as well as rebound and defend.
You have always been a scorer your whole career while being consistent. What do other strengths does your game have?
Other than scoring I feel my strengths are being unselfish and making the extra pass, defending with some room for improvement, and I try to do other little things that can help our team win.
Versatility is huge in your game. How has that helped you the most this season as a rookie?
Being versatile has helped me get on the floor. With some injuries we had we were lacking depth at the center position, although undersized I was able to step in and play minutes at that position. This gave our team some different options offensively which I think opened up our game.
Your shooting 51% from outside and have made a big jump this season. Did coach Steve help you or has it been mostly with your preparation and mechanics? Nothing has changed as far as mechanics for me but what I think changed the most is the kinds of shots I’m taking. In college I was depended on more to score and I didn’t always take the most high quality shots. With this team this year I have been able to take and make high quality shots open shots, most of which are created by my teammates. Getting here midseason there hasn’t been much time to work with Coach Steve, the help he has given me is telling me to shoot the ball when I’m open.
How has your defense grown this season? Bremerhaven gives up only 75 points per game and is one of the best defensive teams in the Pro A? Personally I’ve learned and adjusted to defensive strategies I’ve never or rarely done before. As for our team, when we limit our opponents to jut one shot we are very good. Some of the games that we have lost or were close we were not able to do that.
On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can continue to climb the basketball ladder? I believe I can take a big step up defensively. I also want to improve my ball handling, this will just expand my versatility even more. Strength is another thing I need to improve, especially with the physicality in this league.
This season your averaging 9/3/1 in only 20 minutes which is 16 minutes less than last season. Has it been a tough adjustment playing less? You still are very efficient. It is definitely different playing for a team when you aren’t needed or expected to play over 30 minutes. With more limited minutes you have to give the effort and try and give the most you can because sometimes you don’t know how much time you will get.
You played at Montana State University Billings (NCAA2) from 2017-2024 and had your ups and downs including being injured. What kind of a player were you coming in and what kind of player did you become when you left? Coming into college I was skilled but also still pretty raw, many times I just relied on my athleticism. As the years went on I was able to learn more about the game and fine tune my skills. After my time away I came back with a much better perspective and was in a real leadership role for my first time in college. This helped me learn a lot about myself and about team dynamics.
You had many great games in the NCAA 2 especially against Alaska and Alaska Anchorage. What was your fondest moment on the court? There lots of memorable games for me in college, first game, games against D1 opponents but the end of my senior year had to be my best one. It started with a senior night win against one of our recent rivals in Saint Martins. Then we had the Alaska trip where I had a career weekend. Something like 61 points in 2 games and only 3 missed field goals was pretty special. That weekend also helped clinch our teams first regular season GNAC title.
How did head coach Luke Fennelly groom and prepare you best for a professional career? From the start coach told me I was a leader on this team and that I have an impact on how good this team could be. This motivated me to lead by example and trying show what or team needs and the effort needed for success.
Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Daniel Moody? We never actually played a game of 1-1 but we did have our fair shares of battles in practice. The game would be very competitive, so much in fact that it might have to turn into a series because one game might not be able to decide it.
Who is the best player that you ever faced on a court that reached the NBA? I think the best player I player against was Corey Kispert who played at Gonzaga and got drafted by the Washington Wizards. Played him once in a team camp and once in an AAU tournament, he was pretty impressive.
Please name your 5 favorite teammates of all-time? My dorm roommate Tyler Green. Another former roommate Jordan Lehrer. Kobe Terashima, Jalrn and Jajuan Tot
What is your personal NBA Mount Rushmore of past or present heads?
MJ, Bron, Kobe, KD
Who is your GOAT and why?
Kevin Durant, growing being a Thunder fan being able to go to games and even go to his camps in the summer he has always been my favorite player. Except for about two months after he left OKC and signed with the Warriors. At his size with his ability to handle the ball and score the way he does, it’s a work of art.
Did you see the sequel to the classic coming to America? Shouldn´t they have left it alone? I didn’t see the sequel. Most movies should be left alone, especially when so much time has passed.
It was December 2015, and it was just another normal game for the Fraport Skyliners playing Swedish team Sodertalje Kings in Frankfurt as their vicious Fiba Europe Cup season continued as they were blowing away opponents as if they were fish bait. It wasn´t any different with the Kings as they were beaten with ease 95-64. Frankfurt was led by future World Cup champion coach Gordon Herbert and their German big man duo and future Euroleague players Johannes Voigtmann and Danilo Barthel who combined for 43 points. All in all, Frankfurt had 6 guys score in double figures and still dominated despite being without future Euroleague player and leader Jordan Theodore. However there was another news story in this game that was complete minor then, but in a way would change his basketball life. The talk was of Skyler Bowlin (190-G-1989, college: MSSU) who at that point was 26 and was no newcomer at all, but already a seasoned veteran who was in his fifth pro season and had won 2 titles in Denmark. But this game was a huge changing point in his career as Giessen 46ers head coach Denis Wucherer was in the stands and had observed his masterpiece game in a losing cause by steering home 18 points, gotten 3 boards, dished out 5 dimes had a steal and had picked his spots so well shooting 7/12. The reason it was a major turn in his career was because up to that point, he had played in lower leagues, but the next season would begin a 5 year run in a top 5 league in Europe with the German EasyCredit BBL. He would find his mark in Germany playing for 4 teams and gave consistency and winning a new name. Wucherer loved his play and the next season he played with Giessen and the rest is history. “That’s exactly what happened. I spoke with Denis recently and we talked about that. Denis was the one who gave me a massive opportunity to play in the Bundesliga and I’m forever grateful to him. We still keep in touch quite a bit thankfully“, stressed Skyler Bowlin. Who knows where Bowlin´s career may have gone had Wucherer not been in the stands. I´m sure it would of still been great. However now after an incredible 14 year pro career, Skyler Bowlin has decided to retire at age 35. He was truly one of those rare players overseas that combined a special high level of character and basketball skills.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber meeting Skyler Bowlin for the first time in Frankfurt in December 2015
Skyler Bowlin who lists Erick McCollum, Peyton Siva and Alexey Shved as his 3 toughest opponents overseas is a Arkansas boy who began his basketball career at Greene County Tech High School and then had a stellar 4 year career at Missouri Southern State University (NCAA2) where he was MIAA player of the year, first team and defensive player of the year as a senior. He was also named to all MIAA defensive team all 4 years. Defense would become a massive staple in his game overseas and right away in our first interview before that Fiba Europe cup game in Frankfurt, his big strength was used right away as my interview title. “I was taught growing up that if you can´t play defense than you can´t play at all”. “Defense was the pillar of my game I think. What I have found out is, to get to the next level that’s always the first question a coach asks after seeing someone’s stats. It was so important to my career that I wasn´t a huge target on the defense end”, warned Skyler Bowlin. He turned professional in 2011 and right away began to pay his dues as a player. He played his rookie season in Germany that later would become his second home for the BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProA) averaging 12.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.3apg, Steals-2 (2.0spg), FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 80.5%. It was a solid season, but not great season, but he was just getting warmed up for the first real chapter in his basketball career. He would play the next 3 seasons with Horsens IC (Denmark-Ligaen) where he showed his consistency something that he would maintain his whole career starting in the NCAA 2. In his 3 seasons there he averaged 17/3/6 stats and won the double in his third season. “Consistency was so important. I always tried to keep a level head and work hard every day so that’s a big reason why I was able to keep the same level”, said Skyler Bowlin. Those 3 seasons were very important in his development as his role was a lot different then than what it became in Germany. “In lower leagues you have to be a different player than when you make it to the bigger leagues. In Denmark early in my career that was the role that I was asked to play and I was lucky enough that I did that well. As I got older and in better leagues and different situations I had to learn that not everyone can be the leading scorer and play 35 mins a game. I’m definitely more well rounded and mature as a player at this point in my career”, remembered Skyliner Bowlin. Even after 4 pro seasons, he still seemed to be off the radar and played the next season with the Sodertalje Kings (Sweden-Basketligan) averaging 10.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 58.8% in the Fiba Europe Cup and in the Swedish Basketligan averaged 14.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-5 (1.6spg), FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 78.3%. He helped the club win the league title.
Except for a season in Greece and Poland, the guard who lists Felix Hoffman, Jordan Hulls, Karsten Tadda, Mike Kessens, and Darko Jukic as his 5 best teammates of all-time then played the next 5 of 6 seasons in Germany with teams Giessen, Jena, Wurzburg and Bonn. In Jena he was very fortunate to have been able to catch the latter part of the careers of real basketball legends Immanuel Mcelroy, Derrick Allen and Julius Jenkins. “My 3 old guys!! Man, that year in Jena was so fun with those guys. I also keep in touch with them a bit as well. They all 3 were so different in their approach and personalities and really showed me how to become and even better professional”, stressed Skyler Bowlin. He then played 2 seasons with Wurzburg where he reached the Fiba Europe Cup final in 2019. In Wurzburg, he found truly into the hearts of the fans. “If it wasn’t for Covid I think I would have tried to spend the rest of my career in Wurzburg. I loved everything living and playing there. The fans and the love for basketball are some of the best”, remembered Skyler Bowlin. In his 5 years in the easyCredit BBL he averaged 9,0ppg and 3,0apg and continued to show his consistency. In his last season in Germany, he played for the then up and coming Telekom Baskets Bonn. In his last season, he helped the team reach the BBL playoffs losing a tough playoff series to FC Bayern Munich. It is a shame, he didn´t stay there as there was serious magic brewing up there with Tuomas Iisalo as in the next season they would win the Basketball Champions League. “I think we surprised everyone that season with Bonn and you knew with Tuomas Iisalo as our coach that things were only going to get better and better. So no, it didn’t surprise me at all. Tuomas is just an absolute genius when it comes to the physical and mental part of the game. He pushes you beyond your limits and the growth that comes individually and as a team is limitless. All of his teams feel like they are the toughest guys on the court at all times”, commented Skyler Bowlin. I personally would have loved to have seen him play in a Skyliners uniform, but that unfortunately never happened. “I don’t think I ever really got close to signing in Frankfurt to be honest. It would have been a great experience I’m sure. In Giessen we had some nice rivalry games against them”, expressed Skyler Bowlin. He never won a title in Germany, but it was a very special time in his career. “Playing in Germany and in the Bundesliga changed my life. I played against some of the best basketball teams and players on the planet outside of the NBA. The fan support, the professionalism, and the level was always top notch and something I never will forget. I hope I can get back to Germany one day on the coaching side”, added Skyler Bowlin.
Miles Schmidt-Scheuber and Skyler Bowlin in Bonn, Germany in 2021
After Germany, he still had 1 chapter left in his basketball career and that was finishing out his career in style playing with top Danish club Bakken Bears Aarhus (Denmark-BasketLigaen). He racked up 3 league titles in a row and also helped win an international title with the European North Basketball League title in 2024. In his 3 seasons with them he averaged 10/2/4 as his consistency remained until the end. He couldn´t chose one greatest moment, and choosing a favorite league title was difficult as well. “I can’t ever choose a favorite, but we really had to struggle this year to get to this point, so this one was definitely satisfying”, said Skyler Bowlin. In only 3 years in Aarhus, it has become more than just a second home. “At the moment Aarhus is home. I love it here. We bought a house, the city is one of the best small cities in Europe, and the people in the city and the club are the best”, stated Skyler Bowlin. He played with many great coaches and none better than Anders Person to close out his career with. “Anders was great to play for. He gives guys a lot of freedom and allows guys to fail in order to learn. He was always a calming presence who had us prepared. He’s an even better person. I’m very happy that our paths crossed”, added Skyler Bowlin. Instead of adding a 4th season there, he decided to retire despite still being fit. “I could have absolutely continued playing. My body still feels great actually. Of course there are things that have changed, like the amount of time it takes me to recover, but as far as speed and movement I am just as fast today as I was 5-6 years ago”, stressed Skyler Bowlin. It usually is family that forces a player to retire, but he actually saw it the other way with family. “You know a lot of people ask me if the reason was to spend for time with my family, and to be honest I feel like being on the playing side gives you more time with family that probably any other job. I’m so blessed to be able to take my kids to daycare and a lot of days pick them up and put them to sleep. Of course there’s small travel here and there and games, but I’ve been so lucky to have spent so much time with my kids. Moving to Bakken was a great decision. It was mainly for family reasons and to have my kids be around more family, but Bakken also continued to give me the opportunity to play European competition at a high level”, said Skyler Bowlin. It will be interesting to see what the American will do down the road for work. “I plan on for sure staying inside basketball! The what and where are the big questions. I’m taking some time and figuring out what the next move will be”, said Skyler Bowlin.
In 14 professional seasons, he played in 6 countries and played more than 500 games winning 7 titles. How would he like to have basketball fans remember him? “I hope fans remember me as someone that played his butt off every time they saw me. I hope they saw the joy and passion that I played with also. As a person I hope they saw that I always try to have a smile on my face and treat people the right way”, stated Skyler Bowlin. He just had a big effect on a lot of people especially players. I don´t know how often he was mentioned in my interviews by other players in the last decade, but it was often. Last season after Julius Albus helped win the Pro A title with PS Karlsruhe, he had this to say about Bowlin. “He had a big impact on me. He wrote me congratulating me after the final win. He watched the game and was happy for me. He was a great player and character. He showed every day how he would work on his own game and always try to help his team. He was a big role model for me and inspired me to work hard”, stressed Julius Albus. Another great example was Parker Jackson-Cartwright. “He is the same each day. He never has a bad day. He has the best energy that I have ever seen and is one of the top 5 best teammates of all-time for me. I can get emotional just talking about him. He is so unselfish. We grew an unbelievable bond. I’m so thankful I could play with him”, stressed Parker Jackson-Cartwright. After playing in the NCAA 2 and starting his pro career in Germany in the third division, he is a guy that never took anything for granted. His life in basketball the last 14 years is something that he will forever be grateful for. “Basketball gave me things that I never thought was possible. I got to travel the world for 14 years. It led me to meeting my wife and giving me 2 children. It led me to making friends that I will be in contact with for the rest of my life. It taught me how to deal with difficult and almost impossible situations and make the best out of them. I’m truly grateful for every single up and down the last 14 years”, warned Skyler Bowlin. The only thing that remains now is to say farewell to Skyler Bowlin. He wasn´t far off on how many interviews we have done since the first one almost 10 years ago. He predicted 10 and it was actually 12. That first interview that we did seemed like it was only yesterday. “Time has flown man. It’s pretty crazy to think I’m retired from professional basketball and it’s been a 14 year journey. I would have never imagined basketball would have taken me this far”, said Skyler Bowlin. Thanks Skyler for a great career and It was a pleasure covering you. I will always remember you as a player that gave all you had and always sunk big three´s against Frankfurt. As a person you had a unique special character and were a true professional. “Thanks so much Miles! I’ll remember you as a guy that has so much passion for basketball and spent a lot of long hours calling games and representing Frankfurt and German basketball as a whole as good as anyone! Thanks for everything“, said Skyler Bowlin.
The iconic and groundbreaking 80´s teenage movie Fast Times At Ridgemont High has so many incredible and funny scenes that one has a real difficult time choosing a favorite one. If It´s Mr Hand played by Ray Walston, or Jeff Spicoli played by Sean Penn or Brad Hamilton played by Judge Reinhold, there is a hilarious scene for everybody. Ivan Kharchenko has about as much to do with this movie as Shaq does with winning a weight loss contest, but his situation recently reminded me of a funny scene in the movie involving Oscar winner Forest Whittaker. In the scene, Charles Jefferson played by Forest Whittaker who is the school´s top football player wants to buy some concert tickets to see Earth Wind And Fire. After he does, there is a little boy who was standing next to him that proclaims “Wow does he really live here, I thought he just flew in for games”. That line reminded me of Ivan Kharchenkov (198-SG-2006)´s Sunday May 19th day as he flew from Munich to Berlin just to play in the NBBL final. “This was very special to be able to do. It really did feel like a dream”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Forest Whittaker didn´t really just fly in to play games, but Ivan Kharchenkov did.
The big speculation on Saturday at the NBBL top 4 was, would Ivan Khrachenkov play or not. Game 1 of the easyCredit BBL playoffs between FC Bayern Munich and MBC was also being played on that day and every wondered would Ivan get the nod from Gordon Herbert to help his NBBL (U-19) team. Herbert chose to keep him in Munich. Munich didn´t play their best basketball against Rasta Academy as they had to go into overtime to win to reach the NBBL final. Ivan had logged only 3 minutes in the game 1 win which was played a little bit earlier than the NBBL semi final. “I was able to watch the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter and saw the overtime. I was pretty confident they would win. I mean I knew that my teammates knew that if they didn´t give 100%, then there would be no tomorrow. I was happy when Ivan Volf hit the big three pointer to take the lead. I have been playing with him since the U-14 team. He works so hard on his shot and it paid off”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. With FC Bayern Munich now in the final, the question was could he play this time.? The whole procedure of could he play or not was something that the famous club thought very carefully about. “The club told me when they changed the BBL game to Saturday that I could not play the semi-final in Berlin. They also told me that Sunday would be a no go since we had game 2 on Tuesday in Weissenfels. So I went into game 1 against MBC knowing I wouldn´t play in Berlin. However after the game 1 win, I was on my way out of the arena and the sport director approached me and told me they were thinking of allowing me to go to Berlin for the final. They asked me if I still wanted to go. I was like of course I want to go. I have been wanting to go since yesterday. So I was up at 6:00am Sunday and took a flight to Berlin at 9am”, remembered Ivan Kharchenkov. The question was would he be accepted by his teammates flying in to only play the final. German basketball legend Steffen Hamann was 100% sure it would be no problem. “I believe my teammates had no problem with me flying in. They knew that I wanted to play the final. They knew that It wasn´t my decision that I couldn´t play the semi-final, but that it was political. They were happy that I could play”, expressed Ivan Kharchenkov.
pic credit: Helloitsjana
The final was at 4:30 and I already knew at 3.00 pm that he would play, because his mother had told me that he would play. The FC Bayern Munich players came on the court for warmups and there was Ivan Kharchenko ready for battle against ratiopharm Ulm. Was ratiopharm Ulm possibly intimidated that he was suddenly there for the final? “I mean could be, but I´m not sure. If a guy comes back, then that could be an extra factor. I think they kind of had an idea that I would come back”, stated Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern Munich didn´t play their best game against Rasta Academy, but there was no doubt in his mind that his team would come to take care of business in the final. “When I knew that I was cleared to play the final, there was never a doubt in my mind that we would lose. I just knew that we had to work hard. Plus coach Perego had prepared us well to be mentally tough. He was always telling us that we would dominate coming into the Top 4 and just kept saying it over and over. That domination became our mindset. The final was our time to dominate”, warned Ivan Kharchenkov. Just like against Rasta Academy, FC Bayern Munich came out slow against ratiopharm Ulm and Kharchenkov was 0/4 in the first quarter. “For me it was tough coming into a totally different role than what I have with the BBL team. But I did remain aggressive and when shots didn´t fall, I tried to bring defensive energy and got some stops. I just tried to lead by example”, explained Ivan Kharchenkov. FC Bayern fought back and it would remain a tight affair going into the fourth quarter. However FC Bayern Munich took care of business to begin the last frame with a 14-2 run which decided the game. “I don´t know if that phase was some of our best defense this season, because we had so many different guys playing at different times this season. But I felt like we defended at a high level and had little mistakes. We also secured the defensive rebound. All in all, it was a solid effort”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. The team didn´t only get a stellar scoring game from Dominik Dolic, but got exceptional scoring help from Sermpezis and Kodjo who combined for 24 points. “They are both good defenders and were aggressive on the ball. They were the perfect filler spot. Every team needs guys like that. I really liked Killian Duck who played a great game, but really it was the whole team that contributed to the title”, said Ivan Kharchenkov.
pic credit: helloitsjana
Then when the buzzer finally sounded, a big weight was released off the shoulders of the FC Bayern Munich players. Ivan Kharchenkov who believes that the Oklahoma Thunder will meet the Indiana Pacers in the NBA final and win it had finally won the NBBL title something he had been striving to do for years. Was that feeling like having a birthday and Christmas all in one? “A birthday and Christmas happen once a year and winning the NBBL title doesn´t. It was really very very special for me. Even if it wasn´t deserved so much on my part, because I only played 2 games, I´m just very thankful that I could be a part of this. I´m just really thrilled for my teammates. They supported me a lot during the season and I just tried to help them in the final”, added Ivan Kharchenkov. Playing in the final and winning it will surely be a moment he will tell his grand children one day. “My favorite play of the game for myself was probably the mid range shots that I made or making free throws. Free throws are always good. I will never forget being able to celebrate with my teammates, mom and fans”, commented Ivan Kharchenkov. The question now is was this NBBL final game the last time that Ivan Kharchenkov, Ivan Volf and Dominik Dolic were on the court as teammates? “ I fear it was. They will probably go their own ways. But I would love to play with them again”, said Ivan Kharchenkov. But if not as teammates then as opponents. “It was always nice to see them at Euro events the last years. Even there we would chill together. It is always nice to have that home level with them as teammates or opponents”, stressed Ivan Kharchenkov. Who knows, but they might meet this summer again at youth tournaments. But before that moment comes, Ivan Kharchenkov is focusing on winning a second title within a month as he strives for his second BBL title.
Jona Drucke (194-F/G-2009) is a 16 year old 195cm point guard that averaged 16/5/5/2 stats during the JBBL (U-16 ) season. He has been a member of the German U-15 and U-16 youth national teams. He spoke to eurobasket after helping Alba Berlin win the 2025 JBBL title.
Jona on the big 86-74 JBBL title win over the Baskets Junior Oldenburg. How do you feel?
The feeling is unbelievable. After losing last season, our goal this season was to come back and win it. We won this for Philipp Holsten who broke his arm in the semi-final
How big was the revenge factor for Alba Berlin?
It was huge. I mean we didn´t think about it each day, but we did have that extra kick wanting to win. We just wanted to play our game and not change something on account of our opponent.
How cool was it having the NBA Wagner brothers cheering on the team in the Alba fan block? I knew the night before of the semi-final game that they would come and support us. That shows just how great the Alba Berlin organization is. I mean they are millionaires and they aren´t afraid to join our fans and sing Alba songs. It shows that they will always be Alba boys.
The first quarter was tight, but in the second quarter Alba Berlin was able to get way a bit. How vital was the superb play of Luca Kappel?
He is such a big personality for us. He has developed so well for us and mentally is strong and a great defender. When he gets hot, he really helps us. He gave us an added push in that phase.
The Alba Berlin defense did a great job slowing down Djordje Klaric and holding him at 15 points. How tough is it to keep him in check?
We played together in the youth national team and were roommates. He is a great player and plays at his own pace. He is hard to stop. Daniel Gwanihu had that task and did a good job on him.
In the third quarter Alba Berlin got a massive push from big man De Sancho Del Pino Kruse. How vital was hi support to once again to be able to get a way a bit from Oldenburg? He came from Zehlendorf and fit in right away in the program. He is such a big help at both ends. We are really thankful that we have him.
Oldenburg kept coming back and fighting the whole game. How much respect did Alba Berlin have for that? We have big respect for them. They already showed last season what they were capable of. I told the team before the game that we can´t underestimate them. We have to control the game for 40 minutes and believe in ourselves.
How key was the thunderous dunk form Jason Heitmann at the end of the third quarter for Alba Berlin moving forward?
Jason is a great athlete and friend. He has unbelievable power and knows how to get a whole arena go crazy. But it isn´t just big dunks, but he can do it all. That dunk gave us a huge push forward.
Ilya Fohl hit big shot after big shot. Is he the Steph Curry of Berlin? He is also a new player and came from Zehlendorf. He is a great shooter. He hit so many big shots. I´m so proud of him.
Oldenburg kept fighting in the fourth quarter, but Alba Berlin pulled out the win. What was key in crunch-time for getting the win?
I think that our experience was a big factor, but we knew that they would come back and we were ready for them. The fans also helped us a lot.
German basketball legend Dirk Bauermann told me before the end of the game that you would be MVP of the tournament. How cool is getting this award for you?
I have a special relation with Bauermann. I play for him with the U-16 team in Greece. He is a great guy and has helped me so much with basketball. I´m really proud that he said that.
How will you celebrate tonight? I´m sure you have school tomorrow. I have to go to school tomorrow. We will celebrate as a team now and just enjoy the day.
German Hoops 