Berlin (dpa/bb) – The Alba Berlin basketball players’ increasing form over the last few weeks took a serious turn on Friday evening. Because the Berliners were literally overwhelmed by Fenerbahce Istanbul in the Euroleague with a 68:103 defeat. “They were better in all areas. We had too many problems that we couldn’t solve,” said coach Israel Gonzalez.
But the circumstances were also difficult. While Fenerbahce is still fighting for a better playoff position, the bottom of the Euroleague had nothing to do with sport. Four players were also missing due to injury.
That’s why the Berliners’ focus is now more on the Bundesliga anyway. Here things are contrary to the premier class. There have been seven wins in a row recently. And that should continue on Sunday at home against Veolia Towers Hamburg (3:30 p.m./Dyn). Still, it won’t be easy. “They are having a very good season so far,” said guard Jonas Mattisseck.
It was only on the last matchday that Hamburg was on the verge of defeat against FC Bayern Munich and only had to admit defeat by one point in extra time. “They will come here with a certain amount of self-confidence and want to annoy us. They will be a very serious opponent,” warned Mattisseck.
First place is still possible for Alba. There are still twelve games to play – including both games against league leaders Bayern. “We now have it back in our own hands. And we’re definitely looking at it. We see how tight it is up there. Whether it’s enough in the end is the other question. But we definitely want the preliminary round finish in first place,” said Mattisseck.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:240330-99-511033/2
2024-03-30 09:12:30
#Basketball #Berlin #Fenerbahce #Hamburg #Alba #focus #Bundesliga #sports
