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Lukas Scherer Was Very Blessed To Work 4 Years With Dirk Bauermann And Now Will Continue To Help Develop His Skyliner JBBL Players

Lukas Scherer is an ex player who played youth basketball with TSV Nordlingen and also played 2 Pro B games. He decided to get into coaching and is currently the JBBL (U-16) coach of the Frankfurt Skyliners. He also was an assistant coach for the 2025 & 2026 U-16 Euro teams. He spoke to germanhoops.com about the 2026 Euro.

Thanks Lukas for talking to germanhoops.com Congrats to a fifth place at the U-16 Euro. What does this title mean for German basketball? It wasn´t a medal, but a big fifth place finish.

This result was a big success for German basketball. The third time that a U-16 team has reached 5th place. Of course we would have liked to have won a medal, but one has to be realistic that we are still a bit behind other nations in physicality and skill level.

Germany began with a solid 82-60 win against Belgium. In your opinion is it better to start against weaker opponents the first game or better against a strong team?

I believe for guys this age, it is better to start a tournament against weaker teams. We were lucky that we had gotten a favorable draw. We easily could have started France, Slovenia and Belgium. Players are always nervous in the first game. It is better to have an easy opponent so the guys can tank some self-confidence.

Marko Volf had a strong game with 20 points. How did you see his development? He was known more of his scoring abilities, but had some big assist games. Is his playmaking more respected now after this Euro?

I already had coached Marko last summer and his biggest development in the last year was his leadership skills. It was unbelievable how much he pushed the boys even when he wasn´t having a great game. He developed well as a PG and playmaker. He did a good job trusting his teammates and didn´t always have to finish himself. He was a type of middle man between the coach and teammates. He was also vocal.

Germany then lost 93-70 against Slovenia. You stated after the loss that Slovenia was clearly better, fitter and played with more intensity on defense. Was the stiff competition of all the teams a reason why they didn´t win a medal?

It was a big surprise that Slovenia had to move down. That result showed just how good the other countries were. It also showed how unthankful a tournament like the Euro can be for a country. I never thought that they could move down after their U-18 and U-20 won. Their U-16 was defiantly better than their result. Anything can happen in a youth tournament.

Germany than lost to France 87-58. The Athleticism was a big factor. What do you believe did the boys learn from this loss?

That was our fourth game against them this summer. They were simply further than us with their athleticism, body and tempo. They were almost like a club team. 9 of their 12 man roster train year round. We couldn´t match their intensity or defensive pressure. They deserved to be in the final.

Germany then won an exciting 78-75 game against Israel. Germany showed often that they were really mentally strong in crunch-time. How do you explain those abilities at the age of 15-16?

We prepared really hard all summer long for these kind of games and situations. We also understood how vital the Israel game was for us. We knew what the consequences would be if we lost. They were best prepared for that game.

How vital was head coach Dirk Bauermann in the category of mental toughness? How do you feel did he help the boys most in this area?

He has many critics, but one can learn so much from him. He has an incredible mindset and great ability to motivate young players. Even after games, he was able to build up the spirits for the next games. The guys were able to learn a lot from him and he definitely found the right words at the Euro. I´m really glad that I was able to work with him again.

Johan Meinberg had a big game of 14/12. How did you see his development in the summer? What does he need to do now to make the next step?

He had his ups and downs and was our best center and one of the best bigs at the Euro. He was also a player that was able to make a step forward. He had a little foul trouble in some games. He did a lot of the little things not seen on the stat sheet. We worked all summer on his basics. He has a solid shot, but still needs to work on it. He wasn´t able to show his shot as much at the Euro. The next step for him is the NBBL and getting some minutes in the Pro B with Wedel. He is a good guy and so hard working. He wouldn´t go until he made 10 free throws in a row even if it took him 30 minutes. He has a big career ahead of him.

Germany then lost a tough game to Lithuania 82-75. You stated that it was the little things in crunch-time that cost Germany the win. What did the team learn from this game?

This was a game where Meinberg had foul problems. We had an incredible 18-0 run at the end which showed just how much moral the boys had. They never gave up. It is a shame that we weren´t able to pull out the win at the end. It was little things like a turnover, offensive rebound and 5th foul from Meinberg that cost us the win at the end. They were more clever at the end.

Germany then crushed Romania 79-52. Danny Egbe carried Germany to the win. You stated that he had ups and downs this summer. He averaged 12/3r in the Euro? What do you feel could his game take from the last 2?

Danny is our best 1-1 player and everyone knows just how much potential he has. He is a natural scorer. Coach Bauermann was hard on him, but in the end Danny showed that he could make an impact at both ends even on the defensive end were he has deficits. Danny never put his head down, but continued to work harder and was rewarded in the last two games. His teammates found him and he did a good job defending the other team´s best player.

He shot 37% from outside. It seemed like he took more trust in his shot at the Euro?

He definitely gained more confidence with his shot. In the JBBL, no one could stop him, but at the Euro, it was an adjustment for him. He proved that he could take tough shots and make them as well as out of the pick and roll. He showed that he could do it in tough situations.

Germany then defeated Greece for fifth place 85-77. With all the circumstances involved, was this Germany´s best game of the Euro?

I wouldn´t say it was our overall best game, but the way we were able to execute at the end showed that we could play some very good basketball. We made huge steps as a team in the 8 weeks from the first game until the last game. We gave Bauermann a nice farewell with the win.

How did you see the development of high energy guards Oliver Papez (9/2/1) and Justus Reintjes (7/1/1)? How did their game grow further?

Papez gave the team big impulses and Reintjes was our main ball handler and was great on the defensive close downs especially on Sebastian Lapuste. He also played well against Greece and gave good impulses as a driver. We always had different line ups and everyone gave great support.

Elija Pohlack, Linus Ohr and Lino Schenk were very vital role players. If you had to give an unsung hero award to one of them who would get it?

I would have to say Lino Schenk. He has only played organized basketball for 1.5-2 years. He plays for a small JBBL team Bramfeld. He is still very early in his development and gave us good minutes at the 5. It was quite impressive since he is a 4. I will never forget his big dunk off the pick and roll after only two steps. I would of never thought he could do something like that at the start of the summer. He played tough the whole Euro. Linus also played very well as a ball handler and hit big shots.

You worked 4 years together with Dirk Bauermann. What was the most important piece of info that he gave you?

There were so many things that I learned from him that it would be too difficult to name just one. I picked up just how much energy he brings every day. His drive it so big and always the same no matter if it is a test game or a Euro quarter game. He wants to win every game and had the same drive for 6 weeks at almost 70 years of age. We slept in hostels. His mentally and speeches were amazing. His drive keeps going no matter if a win or loss. I´m really grateful in the trust that he gave me.

Jaroslaw Zinn played 70 minutes in 7 games and had his moments. How vital was this experience for his self-confidence?

I was so happy that he got an opportunity to play. He gets overlooked a lot because of his size. He isn´t listed as a big talent, but is an extreme fighter. He drives 1,5 hours every day from the Giessen area to practice with us. It wasn´t easy for him this summer as he came 5 days before the start and as the 13th man. He began game 1 and then didn´t play so much in games 2-3. I spoke a lot with him explaining it had to do with the match ups. He was so key in the Israel game scoring 5 points in the second half. He also did a good job pushing Linus Ohr. Jaroslaw´s self-confidence really grew this summer.

What will his season look like in 2027-2028? Another season of JBBL and some NBBL minutes?

He is too old for the JBBL: He will play NBBL and fight for a spot. I´m confidence he will make it and also play Regionalliga.

What can we await from the Skyliners Juniors JBBL team this season? What are the goals?

The 2011 year is starting this season. It is definitely an interesting year. We have a lot of guards. We had 3 guys play at the U-15 camp. We also have some bigs. We have a lot of talent. Our biggest goal is to make every player better each day. Our goal will be to reach the Top 4 even if the development of the guys being the biggest priority. I hope we have some Frankfurt players at the 2027 Euro.

What is your coaches Mount Rushmore?

Gregg Popovich, Dirk Bauermann, Gordon Herbert, Klaus Perwas

Thanks Lukas for the chat.

Sahmi “The Willoughbeest Willoughby(Dragons Rhondorf) Is A Modern Day Dennis Rodman Who’s Versatility And Rebounding Will Stick Out

Sahmi Willoughby with Jon Vanderwal

During the dog days of summer when basketball is idle during the phases when there aren´t national team tournaments in the pro and youth sectors, basketball junkies have to pass the time somehow in order not to go totally crazy. It is at this time when clubs are building their rosters for the next season. Of course this time allows for the basketball folk to speculate about how a team might fair with the new players that have arrived. The club press releases are usually so crazily sugar coated about how great that new player is. You can watch as many video´s as possible about that player, but the big question is always, will that player pan out and become that needed reliable piece to a winning formula? It is also always interesting to see how a player will do when he plays for the first time in a new country. That is exactly what German Pro B team Dragons Rhondorf will experience when American Sahmi Willoughby (192-F/G-2001, college: Marietta) straps on the jersey for the first time on September 26th when they face the Basketball Lowen from Erfurt in the season opener. The player had a solid rookie season in Finland where he dominated the Finland-1st Division with Team Pajulahti averaging 22.4ppg, 14.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 72.7% which is their second league and demonstrated in their first division Korisliiga averaging 8.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 80.0% that he could hold his own. Before that he had a decorated career at Marietta (NCAA3) where he won 2 OAC titles and reached a NCAA 3 final 4. What better way to find out the real scoop about Sahmi Willoughby than asking his former head coach Jon Vanderwal who saw at close hand just what kind of player Willoughby became and what kind of person he grew into in his 5 years at Marietta in Ohio. I was thrilled to get contact with coach Vanerwal and his last 2 sentences in the email should make every Dragons Rhondorf fan excited about the coming season and Sahmi Willoughby. “I absolutely love Sahmi Willoughby. He is one of my all time favorites”, stressed Jon Vanderwal. Plus getting a one sentence description like this is what every player dreams of. “Sahmi Willoughby is a great person who has a relentless work ethic and his energy on the basketball court is unmatched”, warned Jon Vanderwal which is how he would describe Sahmi Willoughby in one sentence.

Sahmi Willoughby of Reynoldsburg Ohio played 5 years for Jon Vanderwal from 2019 until 2024 while his coach worked at Marietta from 2010-2025 and had his most prosperous time there with Willoughby. All in all, Vanderwal won 5 OAC regular season titles, won 3 OAC titles (2 with Willoughby), reached 1 NCAA 3 final 4 with him and was voted coach of the year in the OVC three times. Willoughby celebrated a nice development at Marietta and really broke out in his third season and over his last 3 seasons averaged 9/9 stats and as a senior got that double double status in a season averaging 12.6ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 64.9%. When looking at his stats, it is not weird to believe that his biggest strengths on the court are rebounding and versatility. “His biggest strength is his offensive rebounding ability. He’s worked hard to develop his all around game and has become a good shooter. When you combine this with his rebounding ability, it makes him a lethal player”, stated Jon Vanderwal. Willoughby made massive strides in his rebounding from his senior year at Marietta with 10 to 14 as a rookie in Finland. Going to Marietta was so vital in the rebounding development of him. “We always believed rebounding was the most important statistic and we preached it all the time. Sahmi wanted to find a way into the line up and he took this seriously. He committed himself to the weight room and out competed everyone in practice everyday. He just has a knack for rebounding but he also brings the energy on every possession”, explained Jon Vanderwal. Not only on the offensive end will he shine, but he surely will also be capable of making a impact on the defensive end. “Sahmi is a very good defender who has great length and plays bigger than his frame. He can definitely guard 2-5 positions and provides the defensive a lot of scheme options”, added Jon Vanderwal.

Sahmi Willoughby played 5 years in the NCAA 3 and being able to come overseas and be able to ball for a living is an absolute luxury. Not many guys who play NCAA 3 ball have the opportunity to come overseas. He has had to pay his dues since day 1 and still is as a Pro B player. It is absolutely no surprise that he still has a chip on his shoulder. “Sahmi has always played like he has something to prove. He is the modern day Dennis Rodman who takes pride in out competing his opponents. He was under recruited out of high school who wasn’t extremely skilled. I think he realized that we would need to outwork everybody to achieve his goals”, warned Jon Vanderwal. He had so many incredible games at Marietta like against schools Baldwin and Ohio Northern, but does his former coach have a favorite memory of him at Marietta? “His last home game of his senior year, I challenged him to break the school rebounding record of 23. Sahmi went out and grabbed 24 rebounds. The crowd started to realize he was getting every rebound and started cheering extremely hard every rebound he got. I’m never seen somebody get so much love and excitement from the crowd for grabbing rebounds”, said Jon Vanderwal. Jon Vanderwal has given us an early introduction to what Sahmi Willoughby who got early pro experience before coming overseas with Great Falls Electric (TBL,) averaging 9.8ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 60.0% can do at both ends of the court, but how does the 25 year old rebound ace present himself off the court? The Dragons Rhondorf organization is a very tight community where family and kids play an important role ´so he should fit in just perfect. “Sahmi is a kind hearted great person. Everybody who has ever met Sahmi, likes him. He is a high character person who is the ultimate teammate. He’s extremely coachable and just wants to do the right thing”, expressed Jon Vanderwal. Seeing him play like Dennis Rodman must have been a real treat game after game, but what about off the court? How did he impress his coach most? “Sahmi consistently returns to Marietta and visits with families who he was close with in. He’s just such a kind hearted, nice young man”, explained Jon Vanderwal. Did he have a special nickname at Marietta? “The Willoughbeest (Wildebeest)– he’s an absolute animal on the court”, warned Jon Vanderwal. One thing certainly won´t change. He had a unique nickname at Marietta and I will do my best to keep it alive during my play by play during home games.

2026 Fiba Masters Open Champion Moritz Wohlers Knew That There Was A Risk Of Losing But That Was Never An Option For Germany

Pic credit: Armin Cicic

Moritz Wohlers (203-PF-1984, college: MSUB) is an ex German professional player that enjoyed a stellar 17 year career that took him to Scotland for 2 seasons with the Scottish Rocks (United Kingdom-BBL) and the rest was in Germany. He played his rookie season in the easyCredit BBL with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and also played with teams like Wolfenbuettel, FC Bayern Munich, Munchen Basket and MTSV Friendsfactory Schwabing. He played the longest with TSV Oberaching for 8 years. He also spent some in the USA with Benton Cons High School,Lewis & Clark Community College (NJCAA), McKendree College (NAIA) and Montana State – Billings (NCAA2). He spoke to germanhoops.com after winning the Gold medal in the Fiba Masters Open.

Thanks Moritz for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. How did that come about?

We play regularly together at FC Bayern Munich, where we’ve now won three German championships in a row. When we heard about the inaugural FIBA Masters Open, it sounded like an excellent competition, so we decided to organize a team. Since this was the first time FIBA had officially hosted the event, we were motivated to become the tournament’s first-ever winners.

You retired 4 years ago. Do you still keep in shape? In what kind of shape did you go into the tournament?

We normally play here at Bayern once a week in a open gym format. It was started as an over 35 team and as we got older we moved once up to the above 40s. Besides playing trying to stay active with other sport activities. This could be regular fitness training, hiking, tennis, paddle or anything that comes around. Having played a similar event last year for the first time, we all knew that we needed to be in good shape. So there was a bit more training and intensity in order to prepare for that many full games in a short period of time.

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

It was a great tournament and we all needed to take vacation from our regular jobs, so there was a mix of competitive basketball and a vacation character as well. On the off day we visited highlights of Athens and of course had some fun together as well. But we also tried to be as professional as possible doing regenration practice, had a physio with us and even did some Yoga 😉

With guys 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

The main core of the team plays together at FC Bayern but we also had some joining from other locations so we had really never played all together and needed to find together as a team quickly. I guess it helps that we are over 40 and all have a lot of experience in order to make it work. The other piece is of course to be in good shape to be ready for such a tournament.

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

The courts were really nice and almost all locations had video streaming so that the families, friends and fans could follow our games. This was really nice for all that could not travel onsite. In general the gyms were really nice but I think now a days the first league conditions here in Germany have an even higher standard. With the high temperatures the air conditioning was of course helpful.

Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

The group phase started with a tough team from Greece and we managed to win by 4 points. As we needed to come together we knew that the first game will be a difficult one for us. In general the Group stage was a good start for us and for the semi final and final the competition level really peaked! Probably the most famous player was former NBA Player Nikoloz Tskitishvili who played for Georgia which we faced in the semi final. He was still a tough match up, but we managed to overcome them in a tough game.

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffen Hamann, Dirk Madrich Daniel Lieneke Omari Knox and Daniel Dorr. What was it like playing with them? Were you ever teammates with any of them?

Some of them I know already for a long time. With Dirk I already played back in the day with the A2 National Team and for a long time I played for example against Omari and later together with him at Oberhaching. Overall the basketball World is very well connected and that is what it makes fun to play with these guys and there are connections in every direction that have grown over the years.

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich Doerr and Lieneke?

It is not for me to single one out, If I would ask them they all would say themselves. But I think this also shows the competitiveness of this team: Everybody came prepared in good shape and that is of course a big factor for the team success. It also helped to prevent any injuires, whihc we did not have.

What was it like being teammates with 2005 Euro Silver medalist Steffen Hamann? He still seems to be in good shape isn´t he?

As our captain he was leading by example by not only being in good shape! We play together once a week and of course it is a lot of fun to play with a player like him where you can also benefit of his style and level of play.

How did you present your game? How content were you with your game?

We won gold, so I am happy! Of course I wanted to bring and deliver all I got to help the team win, and I was happy with my contribution. But since we all had one common goal it was not really important to look at one individual. We knew we have many options as a team and all only wanted to win and this spirit I was the most happy about.

What was the biggest challenge for a guy your age in this tournament besides the in shape aspect?

Having full games, also back to back, the recovery is probably even more important than ever. In order to balance this with the aspect that we are not professionals anymore is a tough task to manage, but we managed quiet well.

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn´t win this game?

It was a very close game and very physical one as well. We were leading a long time, had a little draw down in the 4th quarter, but kept fighting as a team. Making the important stops, getting the right options and making good decisions. The risk of losing was there, but was not an option for us.

Talk a little about the last play. Omari Knox made the last shot. How exciting was that play?

I think for everyone that has not seen the match, they should watch the last 1:30min. We were down by 3 when Omari got the steal and went for a fastbreak 3 and made it. Afterwards we played a good defense, secured the ball and then I knew Omari had the confidence to close this game. The way he scored the last 3 was crazy!

What was it like being teammates with Omari Knox? What have you always appreciated most about his game?

He is a very humble person, but can really take over games. Back in the day he was at times a one man show doing everything, so I was really happy that we got him onboard. With his level of play and basketball intelligence it is always a lot of fun to share the court with him.

What was your own personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

I don´t think there was one play in particular. It was more the overall experience and how good we as a team worked together. It looks like we trained together for a long time and that was really the best feeling.

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal mean to you? Where do you rank it in your whole career?

I mean you have to put it into perspective: It is above the age of 40 competition, but who can call themselves World Champions? Of course it is different to playing when I was younger, but I am really happy that we achieved this success!

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

We created memories that will last: on the court and off the court even more! I think that is the beauty of a team sport of basketball and why we all love to play. Being together as a team, competing in a good competition, having fun, what can be better?

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

I think this was not the last tournament we played in. I mean we saw other teams play in other ages categories and it was really fun to watch. It had a unique Basketball character where Basketball generations around the world came together, which was very enjoyable.

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Daniel Doerr?

100% me – but Daniel probably has a different opinion.

Thanks Moritz for the chat.

French Baby Jokic Jakob Milling´s(Mulhouse Basket Agglomeration) 4 Year USA Stay Made Him More Aggressive And A Better Communicator

Jakob Milling (203-G-2003, college: MSUB) is a French 203cm forward playing his first season with Mulhouse Basket Agglomeration (NM1). He got early experience in his homeland with Limoges CSP U21 (ProA U21): 8 and Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (NM2). He then went to USA and played 2 seasons with San Diego Miramar College (JUCO) averaging 8.4ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 73.5% and 15.7ppg, 12.2rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 74.5%. He then played a season at Sonoma State University (NCAA2) averaging 10.8ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 73.0% and finished at Montana State University Billings (NCAA2) averaging 8.5ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 61.1%. He spoke to germanhoops.com before a test game in Germany against the EPG Baskets Koblenz.

Thanks Jacob for talking to germanhoops.com Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

I am in Mulhouse right now going through preseason training and as of right now I couldn’t be happier with my basketball life. I am living the dream I have been chasing all my life and I couldn’t have any complaints about it.

You are a French player playing for Mulhouse Basket Agglomeration (NM1). After 4 years in the States, how are you a different and better players then before that?

Before going to the States, I was developed to play basketball the true European way which is with a lot of passes and always looking for the extra pass and trying to play the right way. When I got to JUCO, I quickly learned that if I’m not more selfish, I’m not going to be able to get on the floor as much. So I am more aggressive offensively than before and I also think my communication on both sides of the floor is better because that was a big emphasis from my coaches.

Your playing a test game in Germany against the EPG Baskets Koblenz. How have you followed German basketball the last years? Are you aware that they are defending World and Euro winners?

I haven’t followed German basketball at all before and I honestly didn’t know anything about Koblenz but I am excited to play a team with such a good reputation and history. For my first game back in Europe, this is a perfect matchup in my opinion.

What were the main reasons for joining for Mulhouse Basket Agglomeration (NM1). What was so special about this organization?

I joined Mulhouse because of the reputation they have in NM1 as a winning club and also I used to play for Frank Kuhn when I was in high school and I know that he is a great coach and will get the best out of me. I love the feeling of family that this club has within the team and the organization as well.

How did the talks go with head coach Frank Kuhn? What did you appreciate most about his basketball philosophy?

The talks with Frank Kuhn went great, like I said I have known him for years and it felt good to reconnect with him. We have very similar basketball philosophies when it comes to proving yourself no matter your past seasons. With Frank, it doesn’t matter who you are, you have to perform to be able to get on the court and that means everyone has a chance to prove themselves.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 203cm forward. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player who would bets fit the description?

With my teammates in the USA, they have told me baby Jokic because I play at my own pace and I am good at finding passing angles. I am also capable of hitting the tough shots Jokic sometimes shoots because I shoot with the ball over my head so you can’t really block my shot either.

You’re a good offensive player that can do many things. Talk about your offensive game and it´s strengths?

I think the best thing I provide offensively is my versatility. I am able to play multiple positions and also I’m very adaptable depending on what role is needed at the time. I can become the guy who scores or the glue guy at any time during the game.

Your three pointer is still a work in progress. How do you see the development there and what are your main goals with your shot this season?

I am confident in my three point shot, I just have to be more consistent. The more game like reps I get in the better it will be. My biggest problem with my shot in my opinion is my balance and I am currently working on it.

Your also a very solid defender. Talk about your defensive game. What kind of a defender are you at the moment and what kind of defender do you still want to become?

I would say my defensive game is similar to my offensive game in the versatility aspect. I can guard almost anywhere on the court and I want to become better at guarding guards. I am pretty good defending on the inside because I use my speed as an advantage but with guards I still sometimes have trouble keeping up with their speed.

On what areas of your game are you working on most at the moment so you can continue to grow as a player?

Consistency and physicality are the two main things I work on, Getting more consistent at making my shots is something I been working on for a while now and playing against bigger and stronger guys now means that my physicality has to get better as well.

You played 2 seasons with San Diego Miramar College (JUCO) averaging 8.4ppg, 9.9rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 38.1%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 73.5% and 15.7ppg, 12.2rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 74.5%. Every player that I have interviewed that have played JUCO have reported that JUCO was a grind but an experience that they wouldn´t have traded the world for. How was it with you?

I am extremely grateful to have gone through the JUCO route. It taught me a sense of grind and work ethic like nothing I could’ve imagined. If you can make it though the JUCO grind, you can make it through anywhere.

How valuable was head coach Nick Gehler in your development in JUCO? You made big strides in your game those 2 years?

Coach Gehler was big in finding my confidence in my game from the start of my experience. He was always there to push me to be the best version of me every day and I still talk to him regularly and still has a big impact on me to this day

You then played a season at Sonoma State University (NCAA2) averaging 10.8ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 73.0%. How vital was head coach Rich Shayewitz for your development? What strides did you make under him?

Playing under coach Shayewitz was unique. Our sports program went through something unique so it had an effect on all of us. At Sonoma State, I would say I learned to truly trust in my instincts and do anything possible to win.

You then finished with Montana State University Billings (NCAA2) averaging 8.5ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 61.1%. What could you take from this season?

This was a great season. For me personally, it wasn’t the best stat wise, but I filled my role as a glue guy on that team to the best ability as I can. I had so much fun playing at MSUB and wouldn’t trade that year for anything.

How did head coach Luke Fennelly groom and prepare you best for a professional career?

Coach Fennelly has sent a lot of players in his program to a professional career so he taught me how to be more physical than before and also improve my decision making speed as well.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Jonas la Tour?

I don’t think I lost once against Jonas lol. He is a very good player and an even better person off the court but in 1-1 he couldn’t do anything against me.

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

I didn’t play against him in an official game but I played against Jaylen Wells who is an incredible defender and his shot making that day was something I have never seen before. I knew from that day that he would make an impact in the NBA.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Damien Miller, Cam Barry, Alex Mirhosseini, James Nobles, and Mason Landdeck

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Kareem and Dirk Nowitzki

Who is your GOAT?

Kobe Bryant had such an impact on me growing up and it was also easy to pick him because my older brother was a Celtics fan.

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

No I haven’t seen it and that probably means they should’ve left it alone lol

Thanks Jakob for the chat

Germany Stop Last Israeli Possession Staying Alive To Win 78-75 And Gain A Quarterfinal Ticket Against Lithuania At U-16 Euro

Pic credit FIBA

After a day of rest, recuperation and preparation for the next opponent, Germany was back at it facing Israel in the round of 16. Germany entered the game having had a 1-2 record losing badly to Slovenia and France while Israel came into the match with a 2-1 record. Israel had disposed of Georgia easily while winning a nail bitter over Greece and then got crushed by Spain 101-62. Germany led for most parts of the game, but could never shake Israel and had to watch the game come down to a last possession, but they stayed strong getting the stop and 78-75 victory over Israel to reach a quarterfinal clash against Lithuania. “This was an unbelievable important and big win for us. We have been working for this goal the last 7 weeks and the boys really worked hard for the win. It was a deserving win and I´m really proud of the team”, stressed Frankfurt Skyliner JBBL (U-16) coach Lukas Scherer. After sustaining some really poor starts, Germany didn´t let that happen this time against Israel as they exploded for a 9-0 run to start. Germany´s three point percentage had been terrible in the first games, but they let it rain three´s right away with two from Bonn guard Oliver Papez and one form Hakro Merlins Crailsheim guard Linus Ohr. Big Man Johan Meinberg was a rock under the basket getting the defensive rebounds off the first two misses of Israel. Marko Volf (185-PG-2009) who had missed the last game hit his first jump shot as Germany led 11-1. Israel then called a time out at the 7.11 minute mark. However that things can go so fast in basketball is no secret as the next time out came at the 5,03 minute mark by Germany as Israel suddenly had punched back scoring 11 unanswered points to trail 15-11. In the run Israel was carried by David Rotem of Maccabi Tel Aviv who added 8 points including 2 three´s. Maor Sela of Hapoel Tel Aviv also added a lay in on transition as the game had become an even affair. After the time out Germany still wasn´t able to get Rotem under control as he scored his 10th point on a jump shot. Germany finally ended the 13-0 Israeli run as Marko Volf got going scoring 6 points and giving Germany the 23-16 lead. Volf is so important for Germany as he is the leader and a player that just lives by carrying his team in crucial situations. However Israel didn´t let loose, If Germany had their Marko Volf, then they had their David Rotem. He was on fire and connected on two more three´s to have 16 points on 6/7 shooting as Germany led only 23-21. Israel also got good support from Itay Kedem of Maccabi Tel Aviv who scored twice to keep Israel close traling 24-23 in a very high scoring first quarter. Germany kept attacking getting a lay in from Hamburg´s Danny Egbe and a trey from Ulm´s Justus Reintjes as Germany led 29-25. Germany shot an incredible 66% from the field and 57% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 3 turnovers while Israel shot 67% form the field and 50% from outside and had 7 rebounds and 4 turnovers.

In the second quarter both teams continued to execute well, but Germany had the slim 45-40 lead at half time.. Volf continued to be aggressive and scored on transition after making a steal and made two free throws while Meinberg also scored being 2/2 in the game from the field. His scoring game continues to suffer with the German guard attack doing a big part of the scoring. Israel got buckets from Kedem and a trey from Omer Zvi of Maccabi Tel Aviv to stay on Germany´s back door trailing 34-30. Israel continued to chip away and got huge support from their bench as Yanai Lachmanovich of Hapoel Emek Hefer gave the team great energy with 2 steals and transition baskets that gave them the 35-34 advantage and Germany took a time out at the 5,02 minute mark. The game in the last minutes continued to be a tight affair as Israel had the slim 38-37 advantage as Yanai Lachmanovich had the hot hand and carried his team. Germany was defending solidly, but having difficulty on the offensive execution as good looks and misses and missed free throws kept them from taking the lead. The game was tight and it was time for Marko Volf to step up as he added 3 points and Meinberg continued to be super efficient scoring in the paint and Reintjes ended the first half with a steal and transition basket for the 45-40 Germany lead. Germany shot 61% from the field and 40% from the three point line and had 15 rebounds and 8 turnovers while Israel shot 47% from the field and 33% from the three point line and had 15 rebounds and 8 turnovers.

In the third quarter Germany was able to keep the lead as whenever Israel scored, Germany was able to punch back. Germany began very well continuing to keep Johan Meinberg involved in the paint with touches. He continued to make buckets as his teammates found him for two easy lay in´s. Germany continued to mix it up well keeping their guard terror in tact as Papez and Volf scored to keep Germany up with the comfortable 60-50 advantage. Israel had to play catch up basketball and Germany did a good job keeping David Rotem in check. He had only mustered 2 points since his 16 points in the first quarter. Israel couldn´t muster much offense as Yanai Lachmanovich was the only real bright spot scoring 4 points and keeping Israel from not totally losing control of the game. Israel also got baskets from Ilay Serruya from Maccabi tel Aviv and Ido Ziv from Maccabi Tel Aviv, but trailed 60-53 with 3,16 to play in the third quarter. Israel continued to be aggressive at both ends and kept fighting not allowing Germany to get away and decide the game early. Down the stretch, Israel got good support from Lachmanovich and Kedem with lay in´s as Germany led 65-59 after 30 minutes. Germany shot 58% from the field and only 28% from the parking lot as shots weren´t falling as well anymore and had 28 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Israel shot 42% from the field and 27% from the parking lot and had 23 rebounds and 9 turnovers.

In the fourth quarter Germany didn´t waste anytime jumping all over Israel starting with a 7-0 run to lead 71-59. Instrumental in the run was Jaroslaw Zinn of Frankfurt steering 5 points. After scoring 9 points in the first game against Belgium, he hadn´t been a factor in the last 2 games, so getting this incredible push from the bench from him must have had Dirk Bauermann smiling on the bench. “I´m really proud of him. Of course I spoke a lot with him since his situation isn´t that easy. I always told him to stay ready, because he could become very important for us. In a tournament like this, you need everyone. What really stands out for him is that he is never shy of big moments and is a big competitor. When we needed him, he was ready to help us”, stated Lukas Scherer. While Germany continued to have major difficulty hitting the trey and executing on offense, they were able to keep the 74-64 lead through strong defense. There was no clear path to the basket for Israel as there was always a German big standing ready to swat the ball away. Reintjes like Volf is another guy that loves the big moments as his lay in with 3,48 to play caused Israel to call a time out. They came back strong with Kedem free throws and a Ziv trey to trail 75-69. Germany called a time out and regrouped as Egbe hit a trey, but Germany just couldn´t shake Israel as they got 2 buckets form Rotem and Kedem to trail 77-73 with 1,41 to play. Germany had problems closing out the game as Marko Volf missed 2 free throws which led to Rotem free throws with 42 seconds to go to trail 78-75. Egbe hurled up an airball with 21 seconds to go and Israel had one last chance to send the game into overtime, but a last heave by Rotem missed giving Germany the exciting 78-75 win. “Key at the end was that we fought until the end and gave all we had on defense. We led the whole game, but we knew that they would never give up and fight until the end. We held our nerves and deserved to win the game. I think that the guys will first realize what they have achieved in two weeks. We have a lot of self-confidence now. We aren´t at the end yet. Lithuania is a big basketball nation, but if we play good team defense and believe in ourselves and invest all we have then we have a good chance. We want to reach the semi-final”, warned Lukas Scherer. Germany was led by Marko Volf with 20 points while Johan Meinberg produced a 12/12 game while Israel was led by David Rotem with 22 points while Yanai Lachmanovic added 15 points. Germany shot 54% from the field and 30% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 17 turnovers while Israel shot 35% from the field and 22% from outside and had 38 rebounds and 11 turnovers.

Winning The Fiba Masters Open Was One Of Daniel Doerr´s Biggest Achievements In His Career Along With His Jersey Retirement

Pic credit: Armin Cicic

Daniel Doerr is a former German professional player that enjoyed a 15 + year career in Germany retiring in 2018. He played most of his career in Lich, but also played in Crailsheim and for the Giessen Pointers playing 380+ pro games. He recently took part at the Fiba Masters open and won the Gold medal. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his experience in Greece.

Thanks Daniel for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. You retired 8 years ago. Do you still keep in shape? In what kind of shape did you go into the tournament?

I still try to stay in shape. I work out 2-3 a week and never really stopped doing sports . In think my condition was pretty ok for my age

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

Sometimes it felt a little bit like vacation but we didn’t really had time off. We only had 2 off days out of 10. Most of the times we were practicing, doing yoga or lifting weights to keep our focus .

With guys 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

We had a 3 day training camp in May to prepare a little bit , all guys play in over 40‘s league so they basically stay in shape the whole year . More than half of the players are from Bayern Munich who won the German Championship 3 years in a row. So they know each other pretty well which helps a lot.

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

The conditions were pretty solid , I wouldn’t say first league standard but pretty good.

What was it like for you playing 3X3? Was this something you have done over the years?

I didn’t play3x3 in a lot of years

Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

Thr competition was really good. I was surprised . A lot of former First league players from Greece , Italy , Georgia etc. Georgia even had an former NBA player ( Tskisvhli) on their team .

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffan Hamann, Dirk Madrich Moritz Wohlers Omari Knox and Daniel Lieneke. What was it like playing with them? Were you ever teammates with any of them?

Just a great group of guys , we really had great chemistry. I only knew Dirk Mädrich from the under 20 National team . And I played against Hamann , Wohlers and Lieneke in the Pro A.

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich Lieneke and Wohlers?

I would say Hamann and Lieneke were in the best shape.

You never played in the BBL. What was it like being teammates with 2005 Euro Silver medalist Steffen Hamann? He still seems to be in good shape isn´t he?

Actually not true . When I played for Lich I a had a double license for the BBL team 46ers and played a couple of minutes in the 2003 BBL playdowns and in some cup games as well. But I never was a BBL player, I was a solid 2 league player . It was a great experience to play with a basketball legend like Steffen. He still got serious game .

How did you present your game? How content were you with your game?

I really struggled offensively and I was a little disappointed in the beginning. But then I started to focus more on rebounds and defense to help the team and give Moritz and Dirk some rest . The longer the tournament went on , the more I adapted the role of getting rebounds and playing defense . We had enough scorers anyway. I really enjoyed this role after a while because since I struggled offensively I think this was the best way to help the team

What was the biggest challenge for a guy your age in this tournament besides the in shape aspect?

The biggest challenge probably was that you had 5 games in 7-8 days with workouts in between. Even for a 25 year old , that’s not easy to handle for the body

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn´t win this game?

I knew Italy gonna be a tough matchup because besides us they were in the best shape . But I also knew if we play hard from the beginning, we were going to win it

Talk a little about the last play. Omari Knox made the last shot. How exciting was that play?

Omari last two plays were some of the craziest things I ever saw live on a basketball court . He was ice cold crazy, I went nuts on the bench

What was your own personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

My favorite play definitely was when Omari stole the ball in the finals against italy with down by 3 points . Instead of making a wide open layup, he stopped on the 3 point line a swished the 3 with 50 seconds on the clock . That was Jordanesque

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal mean to you? Where do you rank it in your whole career?

The Gold medal is probably the biggest achievement in my career along with my jersey retirement . For me it is really really special

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

What I will remember the most is probably the special group of guys. So many different characters working for one goal . It really was a great time and we all enjoyed the time we spend together .It was special

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

We will see, if my body feels good i’ll probably play in some more tournaments.

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Daniel Lieneke?

One on one i’ll probably win because I’m the better low post player, which helps a lot in one on one games.

Thanks Daniel for the chat.

Omari Knox’s Game Winner at The The 2026 Fiba Masters Open Stands As One Of The Best In His Career

pic credit: Armin Cicic

Omari Knox (185-SG-1986, college: Bloomfield) is a former American/German guard that enjoyed a 14 year professional season in Germany. He played most of his career for Mario Matic in Oberaching, but also played with the TSV Dachau Spurs, RheinStars Cologne, TuS Bad Aibling Fireballs (Germany-Regionalliga) and with the Ebbecke White Wings Hanau. He began his basketball career with New Utrecht High School and then played at Bloomfield College (NCAA2). He recently helped Germany win the Fiba Masters Open and spoke to germanhoops.com about the experience.

Thanks Omari for talking to germanhoops.com. You recently took part at the Fiba Masters Open. How did that come about?

Thank you, Miles for the interview. A few of the guys Steffen and Mo had asked me the last years to play for the ü35 Team but I was still active as a player. Now having freshly retired, I felt it was time to join the guys. I’m happy I was able to take part.

Wasn´t it for guys 40 and older? Technically you don’t turn 40 until November?

Yes they actually take the birth year 1986 and older.. I was the rookie in the team.

The tournament was in Greece. Did it feel like a little vacation at the time?

It absolutely felt like a vacation. Our apartment was literally up the street from the beach. We were in the water every day that we were there.

You had retired in 2025. Did you stay in shape the last year in any way?

It was nearly impossible to stay in game shape throughout the year because I have been so busy training my youth teams and doing organisational work for the club. At some point in the year, I joined FC Bayern Munich to practice and play a few games with the Bayernliga team to get back into shape. Still, I somehow was only able to practice about 10 times in the span of three months.

With guys over 40 or over, how did Germany prepare for this tournament? How much can one prepare when guys are 40 or over?

Coach Jens and Steffen did a great job of holding practices throughout the year once a week to keep guys in shape. As the German Championships got closer, we managed to practice a bit more and also get in a few test games. Jens also held yoga sessions before every practice which made a world of difference.

The conditions were state of the art. Talk a little about how nice everything was? There was featuring wooden flooring, and air conditioning, Did it compare to first league conditions?

The gyms were very nice inside. Most were very old but air-conditioned, with wooden floors and very comfortable to play in. In comparison to 1st league German team’s facility’s they were much smaller, but still very nice to play in.

Talk a little about the competition. How good were the other countries in general and were there some notable players from back in the day?

There were many good players who took part in the tournament. I could tell that several of them were very good in their prime. Several first and second league players in their own countries (Greece, Italy, Georgia. Before our final game we watched the over 60 Finals between Australia and Serbia. This was amazing to watch both countries still compete at such a high level, and see their sharp basketball I.Q. The most notable player that we faced (in the semi finals) was former NBA lottery pick Nikoloz Tskitishvili.

Talk a little about your teammates. There were some known guys like Steffan Hamann, Dirk Madrich Moritz Wohlers Daniel Dorr and Daniel Lieneke. What was it like playing with them? Weren´t you teammates once with Wohlers?

It was a lot of fun to play with those guys. So many years of experience all on one team. Everyone on the same page wanting to compete and win. Sacrificing their bodies, taking charges and going after rebounds. It was amazing to see. Everyone encouraged me to play my game and be me, whenever I was being too passive on the offensive end. They made it very easy to fit in. Mo and I played together in Oberhaching so the chemistry was already there for sure.

Who was in best basketball and physical shape between Hamann, Madrich and Wohlers?

I think Steffen and Dirk were both in pretty decent shape. Steffen often picked up full court on defense and took a ton of charges throughout the whole tournament. We played through Dirk for a lot of the tournament because most of the teams didn’t have anyone who could stop him. He also ran the floor well, set a lot of screens and had to defend probably the toughest matchup (Tskitishvili) of the tournament, in the semi finals. Mo was also in pretty decent shape and played a ton of minutes.

Had you had dealings with Steffen Hamann? Late in his career he played with FC Bayern Munich from 2010-2014 when you were playing for TSV Dachau. Had you ever been on a court with him back in the day?

I watched Steffen a lot in my early years here in Germany as he was the lead guy. I can’t remember ever being on the court with him.

When looking at your stats you were up and down but saved your best for the semi-final and final scoring 16 and 17 points. How content were you with your game?

In the group stage and also throughout most of the tournament I was being more of a facilitator and creating shots for the rest of the guys. They kept telling me to be more aggressive. I guess the difference in the semi finals and finals were that the competition level raised a bit and my scoring was then needed. I was happy to be able to fit nicely into a team who had previously won a silver medal in the European championship.

Germany won the final against Italy 69-66. How exciting was this game? Was there any doubt that Germany wouldn´t win this game?

The last game was very exciting for everyone I think. The fans in the gym, and everyone who watched on the stream definitely got a show. The game was back and forth the entire time. I honestly never really had the feeling that we would lose, even in the final minutes with it being so close.

Talk a little about the last play. You made the game winning shot. Where does that rank with your best game winners in your career?

The last play of the game definitely stands up there as one of the best in my career. Although it’s a shot I’ve made a ton of times in my career, for me to make it in such an important moment to win a gold medal was truly something special.

What was your personal favorite play on the court during the whole tournament?

My personal favourite play for the tournament would probably have to be the steal and the 3pt shot to tie the game, in the Final. I’ve gotten so many questions about that play, and what was going through my mind. For me, it was a now or never moment and I got clean look at the rim and was able to take advantage of it to tie the game.

What does the Fiba Masters Open Gold Medal and MVP award mean to you? Where do you rank it in your whole career?

This Gold medal and MVP award mean everything to me. It was an opportunity to represent the entire country in international competition. It ranks up there at the top of my career accolades and accomplishments.

When you look back at this experience in 20 years, what will you remember most from it?

I will of course remember the success of winning the gold medal, but mostly the fun we had as group. Beach parties, water aerobics, yoga, and dinners with Greek food and Ouzo.

Do you think like you will take part in more of these kind of tournaments down the road?

I hope that this was only the first. I look forward to playing a few more as long as my schedule and body allow it.

Who wins a 1-1 on the court in 2026, you or Steffen Hamann?

. Hahaha, if you asked me who would win between me and Lebron James I would still pick myself. I’d say I’d beat Steffen one in one.

Thanks Omari for the chat.

Declan Duru Will Never Forget Jack Kayil(New York Knicks) Washing Down A Chip Challenge With Milk

Pic credit: FIBA

German basketball has been blessed the last 4 years of achieving big success on the pro and youth sector concerning the international competitions during the summer. The accomplishments of the German national team have been incredible winning a Gold and silver at the Euro, a Gold at the World Championships and a fourth place at the Olympics. Meanwhile at the youth sector, they have recently won the u-18 Euro and won a Silver at the U-19 World Cup. The hard work by the German basketball federation and clubs in Germany the last 10 years has finally been rewarded and the whole world is watching German basketball now. So many great players have evolved over the years like Dennis Schroeder, Daniel Theis, Isaiah Hartenstein and Franz Wagner to just name a few and it will continue with the next generation of players like Christian Anderson, Hannes Steinbach and Jack Kayil. Kayil has been a type of warrior his whole career. He was already a talented youth player that was always younger than the rest. He didn´t go one route, but changed teams with Alba Berlin, Rasta Vechta and BC Mega MIS Beograd (Serbia-KLS). He had his ups and downs over the years, but won titles and developed his game further and got drafted in the NBA. But during the youth tournaments there was always a player there that seemed to be a step ahead with Christian Anderson. Anderson dominated the last 2 tournaments with the U-18 Euro and U-19 world cup filling up the stat sheet averaging 20ppg/5apg and 17ppg/6apg while Kayil was fantastic as well and averaged 15ppg/3apg and 11ppg/6apg. One has to wonder what Kayil might have been capable of doing without Anderson there? Does Kayil have a chip on his shoulder? “Jack has always had a chip on his shoulder. If Chris weren´t there, then Jack could lead the team on offense and defense. Jack was never in the shadow of Chris, but was always next to him. Jack always played his game. Chris is the go to guy, but Jack is still a top player”, warned Declan Duru (203-F-2007) who will play at the University of California at Santa Barbara (NCAA) in 2026-2027.

Before Declan Duru went to Real Madrid in 2020, he played in the youth sector with FC Bayern Munich and IBAM and had had his meetings with Jack Kayil on and off the court. How was that first meeting off the court with him and what was his first impression of his game? “I remember Jack coming over as being nice and was simply a super guy. He was very focused with everything and was very helpful. We understood each other very well. His IQ really stood out on the court. His drive was also very good then. He had this spin move that I remember”, stressed Declan Duru. Have the two players developed a special bond with their meetings over the summer´s with the youth national teams and is it difficult at times managing it when you don´t see the other for a year? “We have kept that good relationship over the years. I saw Jack during the Alba-Munich BBL finals recently. We have a good connection. We actually played each other in 2 tournaments over the years. It was a lot of fun. We even had some trash talk, but not so much”, laughed Declan Duru. One thing that continues to pop up with everyone who has seen the game of Kayil is his incredible knack of knowing how to make the right play at the right time. Has Duru also noticed that? “Yes that´s true. Jack is great at making the right play at the right time. He will drive when he has to and pass when he needs to. But he has many special things about his game. His drive and consistent shot also are special. Hie IQ is also is so valuable”, stated Declan Duru. His playmaking has also really improved and developed very well the last years. Was ex Euroleague player Martin Hermannsson a key support last season? “I think he was important for Jack. I think that his experience in the BBL last season also helped. He proved last season that he was a good playmaker in the BBL”, warned Declan Duru. That he is an efficient offensive player is a fact, but he is just as good on the defensive end. “Jack can defend the other team´s best player. He has very good lateral movements. He has a good touch for steals and get in passing lanes and get deflections. His defensive IQ is very good”, expressed Declan Duru. Even if his scoring is excellent, there is something in his game that has to be considered a hidden strength. “His shot is a hidden strength. People don´t respect his shot. But he can hit the three pointer with confidence”, said Declan Duru.

Kayil´s teammates Christian Anderson and Hannes Steinbach from the youth national teams had NCAA experience, but Kayil didn´t. He played with organizations in Germany and paid his dues in Serbia. How vital was going a different path than the others and how did his game grow? “He got valuable experience. It was an advantage to see different things and his IQ really grew. He took a chance to get better and it worked. He improved on a lot. His shot became more consistent and he got more athletic. He also was able to read the game a lot better on the pick and roll”, commented Declan Duru. Kayil was drafted at #39 by the Houston Rockets and traded to the New York Knicks. “I was so proud and happy that Jack was drafted. I know him since I´m 13. It is always good seeing a guy I played with do well. I wish him all the best. He deserves it”, warned Declan Duru. How well will he fit in in New York? “I believe that Jack doesn´t necessarily need the ball in his hands. He can play off the ball. He knows what he has to do to get shots and is also a good rebounder”, said Declan Duru. Is NBA champion Jalen Brunson the perfect mentor? “Having a teammate like Brunson is the best he could get. They have a similar style and I know that Jack will profit from him”, stated Declan Duru. Can Kayil only be a role player or can he be an impact player down the road in the NBA? “Jack has all the tools to be an impact player. He is a 3 level scorer. It won´t surprise me if Jack becomes an impact player”, warned Declan Duru. Duru also has many fond memories with Kayil and for some reason that hot chip challenge pops up here and there. “We had a hot chip challenge. Jack couldn´t come to terms with the hot chip. He didn´t get sick, but drank a lot of milk”, laughed Declan Duru.

Joe Asberry(Pro Pathway Tour) Best Advice For Ballers Chasing The Overseas Dream Is To Be Humble And Realistic

Joe Asberry (196-F-1965, college: SF State) is an American ex professional basketball player that really has seen it all from crime to drugs, but also played against legends like David Robinson (215-C-65, college: Navy), Gary Payton, Jason Kidd and Brian Shaw and was teammates with German legendary player Christian Welp. He had a 11 year professional career that saw him toil around in the minor leagues of Germany, but he belonged to the best in his day at that level. Since retiring from the game, he has been a spokesperson for young kids and drug prevention, guest speaker, worked in the Alba Berlin organization, been a master of ceremonies for UBC Hannover and been a mentor for young Americans coming overseas trying to live the dream of being a professional basketball player. He worked recently with the Artland Dragons organization. He helped organize the Pro Pathway Tour with Elijah Allen and spoke to germanhoops.com about the experience.

Thanks Joe for talking to germanhoops.com. Where are you at the moment and how is basketball life treating you?

What´s up my Man Miles? Always good to catch up with you. I´m in Munich right now enjoying the sun and getting ready for Omari´s Knox´s Elite Camp. I´m his MC so I´m looking forward to go crazy on the Mic, when his young skilled athlete´s get buckets!

You recently took part at the Pro Pathway Tour in Germany. How did that gig come about for you?

The Pro Pathway Tour is an opportunity for underdogs chasing the Overseas Pro Basketball Dream to have a door open for a Entry Level Job. (Pro B and 1st Reg) It came about as a nice Gesture from Big Slim,and Elijah Allen. We appreciate the cool life Pro Basketball Overseas has given us so that´s are way to pay it forward.

Your partner Elijath Allen is a hooper who is a individual trainer and also runs camps. Talk a little about your relationship to him? How special is it?

Elijah Allen is my guy. We met 14 years ago and we have been tight homeys ever since. It´s bigger then basketball with us. We have been helping American Import and young ballaz for years behind the scenes so now we´re doing our thing together with our Showcase. I recruited him to sign with the Agent I was working with Mike Baron. We signed him and the rest is history. He hit the biggest 3 ball in the History of Bochum. That 3 ball led Bochum from Pro B to Pro A. He´s humble so he just laughs when I tell all of the young bucks that story, LOL!

Both you guys are so passionate for the game and just want to see guys grinding to make it overseas be successful. Do you feel like each other´s strength trickles off on the other and makes each other even more powerful to help these guys succeed?

We both want to see guys WIN! Elijah played with and us guys like OJ Mayo, Bill Walker and King James himself so he understands high level Pro Basketball just like I do. We both love the game and we feel like we both had a Legit shot at making it to the NBA, but a few coaches who had “Hidden Agendas” got in the way. We never make excuses. Overseas Pro Basketball was the cards we were dealt so we played those cards We work well together because we feel like our strength is we tell basketball players the TRUTH! There is NO HIDDEN AGENDA. Either you´re built for pro hoops or your not and if you´re missing things in your game we´re going to tell you and teach you what you need to get where your trying to go.

The tour was in many places in Germany. What was your summary how the whole tour went? What were the biggest challenges for you and Elijah?

The tour was an overall success. The guys played vs guys who had BBL, PRO A,PRO B,1st Reg and NBBL experience. The biggest challenge was to make guys understand how difficult it is to get a Job overseas. There are thousands of guys who want to be the “Import” so if you don´t have something elite in your game it´s not going to happen.

Talk a little about how a day went? Was everyone always together?


The Day was easy. Show up one hour before the game and play. It was like an Allstar Game. We had one beautiful day where we all got together ate lunch and took the time to bond as a Unit. That was the best day.

What was your impression of the games: How did the guys do and who were some of the teams?

The Games went very well. We won two games and we lost one. The game we lost was to Elijah Allen´s Allstars led by Terry Winn. That was an eye opening experience for our “Imports”. They could play vs a “Import” who destroyed 1st Reg when he was in Giessen. I had seen him play on film, but that was the first time I saw it with my own eyes. He´s the truth. He plays with the team, he led his young guys and he could get to his spots and get a bucket easily

I checked the roster and it was guard infested. As a big what was it like working strictly with guards? Did you have to reshape your teachings a bit to what your used to when working with bigs who love to dunk?

Our team was guard heavy, but that wasn´t a problem. It was Run and Gun basketball. It´s easy to play for me and Elijah, We give you a few Horns sets and let you Hoop. The mission is to show the GM´s,Coach´s and Agents what you can do and not run around like a Robot waiting to get CUT!

What personally gives you the biggest pleasure working with American ballers. Your used to working with German boys and girls. Do some of these guys have ego´s that are out of control?

I was working with Germans and Girls during the day. That´s the behind the scenes work I spoke on. When I´m in a weight room pumping up my muscles or at night when I´m on the phone, I´m dealing with American and Canadian Pro´s Guys 24/7 ” Imports” are hitting me up from all over the world especially when they´re pissed off at their Coach I just give them solid advice and let them know it doesn´t matter what the Coach does, it matters that you´re the “Import” so you have to perform and help your team win thats what you signed up for. That´s my biggest pleasure helping them to stay calm under the overseas pro basketball pressure. And yes some Americans have inflated ego´s as they should, they´re a Low Percentage of people worldwide getting paid to play Basketball. When the ego goes overboard, I start asking them the tough questions! LOL!

You’re a guy that saw it all in a time when these guys weren´t born yet. You had to grind in the Regionalliga. What is the best Joe Asberry advice that you give an American baller trying to get a job overseas?

The best advice I can give guys about playing Pro Basketball overseas is to be humble and be realistic. I told myself I have to change my mindset and work harder to be a better basketball player! Me vs Me! I had a game with 10 Dunks in 1st Reg back in the day and it led to 2nd Division Finland, Switzerland, Luxembourg and I was a BBL Practice Dummy! I loved every minute of it, because I got PAID for my DUNKS! I´m not bitter about my journey. I blame myself for my NBA Failure. Other “Imports” should do the same. Check the Man in the Mirror if you think you´re good enough to play for Alba Berlin great, then stop talking, stop posting and prove it!

I knew about guys like Terry Wynn and Phil Flowers. Was there any other player that made an impression on you?

Austin Parker impressed me the most. His Dunks, rebounding and blocks were magnificent. I can see him easily playing on the Pro A and Pro B Level I´ll also say this all of the players gave it 100% so I respect EVERYONE chasing the Pro Hoop Dream.

What was your personal highlight of the tour?

My highlight of the tour was to coach my Young Gun Giulio Sederino. I was his U18 Coach in Quackenbruck. I let him play free and wild and he was cooking for Coach Joe. It felt great to see him chasing his dream and also, to yell, scream and cuss at him and not have to bite my tongue like I did when I coached the Girls! LOL!

Will there be tours in the future and will you be a part of them?

The Agents and Coaches think our tour is a great idea so yeah me and “E” are full speed ahead

What is the future with you? You were in the Artland Dragons organization helping the boys and girls teams. Do you have s gig lined up already for 2026-2027?

My future is always bright, I´ll continue to help “Imports” chase the Pro Basketball Dream.I´ll continue to Scout for the Agents I work with and I´ll continue to LOVE Basketball. I always say it, I´m not a Good Coach, I´m a damn good hype man and a cheerleader, but if you want me to teach your kids how to get buckets, play free, play wild and have fun with basketball, I´m your type of COACH! If my ballaz don´t play defense, get ready for a Profanity laced rant. So no more Coaching Girls, thanks Ladies, I can´t do it, I´ll have to wear a muzzle to coach girls, it was FUN! LOL!

Thanks Joe for the chat.

Chris Widmer(Skyliners) Doesn’t Know Yet If A Professional Career Will Be In His Cards But He Will Do All Possible To Become The Best Player He Can

Pic credit: JHoffmann

Chris Widmer (198-F-2007) is a 19 year old 198cm forward playing for the Skyliners organization with their Pro B team Skyliners and NBBL team Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners. He has played most of his career with the Skyliners, but also played with TV Langen. He spoke to germanhoops.com about his career.

Thanks Chris for talking to germanhoops.com. You live in Germany, but play for the youth Dutch team. Talk about your childhood. You grew up in Germany, but have Dutch roots?

Yes for my whole life I have lived in Frankfurt. My mother is D utch and my father Swiss. I always went there when I was on vacation to visit family and friends. So I always had a connection to my home countries and I always enjoy being there. As for basketball I came across some coaches from Amsterdam last season at a pre season tournament. I connected myself and got integrated into Netherlands Basketball.

You played JBBL with Eintracht Frankfurt Skyliners, but also played a season with TV Langen. What positives could you get from your Langen season?

I made first experiences outside of youth basketball having played a few games in 1. Regionalliga. I had good coaches like Niklas Pons and Tobias Jahn who were able to give me some Input and support me on my basketball journey. They also encouraged me to take the next steps in my career. Overall it was a good learning experience.

How valuable was a player like experienced Henk Droste? What could you learn from him?

Henk Droste was a great teammate and a fun guy to be around. He himself is a good all round player and also very physical. He showed me how important it is to be consistent in what you do. As a 16 year old back then he also taught me fundamental things about basketball that helped me become a better player.

Last season you played Regionalliga in Frankfurt and this season in the Pro B. How valuable was the pro B experience? How did your game grow there?

I earned my first minutes and also scored my first points at some point for which I am very grateful. I didn’t have a big role but I helped out the team when it was needed. I didn’t improve my game that much just by playing Pro b but still learned a few useful things under the coaching of Markus Klusemann.

Let´s talk about your game. You’re a 198cm forward. If you had to compare your game to a NBA or Euroleague player who would best fit the description?

I don´t really know who I would compare to my game, a lot of the times the players are unique in their playing style.

Talk about your strenghs as a player. What kind of an offensive player are you? Are you a guy that also does things that aren´t always seen on the stat sheet?

Offenisvely I try to use my first step to attack the rim and use my body, when I get a good shot I also take 3s. If its needed I can also be used for screens and use my strength for pick and rolls and other situations. Other than that I am good on fast breaks and defense to offense runs.

How would you rate the development of your 3 point shooting this season? You shot 27% in the NBBL. Is it tough developing it when there are others taking the bulk of the shots?

It was better at the beginning of the season but overall I’d say I improved my shooting over the last years. When you have players like Jamie and Ivan but also the other guys like Lukas Smazak for example you have a limited amounts of shots per game. But that´s also how it should be and I have of course adapted to this.

What kind of a defender are you now and what kind of a defender do you still want to become?

In my opinion I can defend almost anybody, from guard to wing to big. I want to become even quicker on my feet and maybe be more solid when boxing out. I can anticipate steels of ball pretty well and want to use this when defending on ball.

On what areas of your game are you working on most now so you can keep improving your game?

Definitely fundamental shooting, being able to knock down open 3s is very important for me. Over the summer I want to improve my handles and overall finishing.

You also have been a member of the Dutch U-18 team. How is the state of Dutch basketball? How good is Tayshawn Gipson? His dad played in the BBL around the time you were born?

Tayshawn Gipson is a very talanted player with crazy athleticism and ball handling. It was fun playing with him as it also was with my other teammates from nationals. I also met his family briefly, they all are very nice people, it is obvious that he got his talents from his dad and learned a lot from him. Dutch basketball is definitely evolving and starting to get more recognition. Especially with the new generation of players it will only get better from here.

You know players like Endurance Ayiamenkhue and Yanu Slingerland. How good are these 2 players and what do you like most about their games?

Both Endurance and Yanu proved that they are one of the best players in European competition. Yanu is a go to shooter with tough athleticism and Endurance a physicall center who can dominate around the rim. I believe in these boys and I’m sure they are going achieve great things.

You played at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket Division B in Romania -2025 playing 5 games. What kind of an experience was that? What was your fondest moment there?

To be honest it was more a lesson for me to deal with pressure and having to accept your coach not having trust in you anymore. I lost my rhythm starting the tournament and didn’t play much after that so I had chance to let it sink in and better myself mentally. But all in all I also had a lot of fun with my teammates and made some great connections.

What is your goal as a professional player? Is being a pro a goal? What would be your plan B?

I want to see how I evolve in the next years. If I see myself playing on professional level I will give everything to achieve that. My number 1 goal is to become the best player that I can be.

Who is the toughest player that you ever faced in your career that made NBA or Euroleague?

Untill now I’m not sure that I have actually played against Players that already made NBA or Euroleague but there are a number of guys where I’m sure that they will reach one of those two. Take Endurance as an example. Furthermore as I already mentioned I’m confident a few of my teammates will also reach that level.

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Jamie Edoka, Ivan Crjnac, Konstantinos Kapetanakis, Julius Messer und Noah Koch.

Please list your personal NBA, Dutch and Euroleague Mount Rushmore of 4 best players of all-time?

Lebron James, Anthony Edwards, Worthy de Jong, Kendrick Nunn

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James

Thanks Chris for the chat?