GER - Müller named MVP at Jordan Brand Classic

NEW YORK/HAMBURG (2010 FIBA U17 World Championship for Men) - Germany's U17 national team star player Malik Müller showcased his enormous potential by garnering an MVP award in the Jordan Brand Classic Game played at Madison Square Garden this past weekend.

In a contest that brought together the best young talent from around the world, the guard from Urspring stood above the rest as he poured 21 points, pulled down five rebounds while also getting three steals and two blocks. As a result of his all-around effort, Müller was voted the MVP of one of the international teams.

"I was pretty nervous at the beginning," admitted the 188cm guard, who went to New York City straight after competing in the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim, Germany.

"My first two shots did not fall but I kept shooting and it all turned out perfect."

Müller's experience was made all the more special because being a part of the international team meant he got to know players who will be his opponents at the FIBA U17 World Championship in Hamburg in July.

The international youngsters also got to meet some of their heroes as Michael Jordan, Chris Paul and Dikembe Mutombo all stopped by to talk to the upcoming stars.

Not surprisingly, Jordan - patron of the Jordan Brand Classic - impressed Müller deeply: "Meeting him (Jordan) is simply amazing. He has a very special aura."

The 16-year-old was forced to stay in New York because of the massive disruption on international flights caused by Iceland's volcano ash cloud. He is now eager to get back home as soon as possible - and for good reason.

"I have to be back in Germany by the weekend as we play the Southern German Championship with Urspring...!"

You can find out more about the Jordan Brand Classic here.