Britta Hering: The EuroLeague MVP Leading MTSV Schwabing

Britta Hering, a 6’4″ forward, has been the face of German women’s basketball for over a decade. Her 2023 EuroLeague MVP award came after leading MTSV Schwabing to the 2023 EuroLeague Final Four, where they finished fourth. Hering averages 18.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in the BBL, according to EuroLeague stats.

Hering’s strength lies in her versatility. She can dominate in the post, hit mid-range jumpers, and even orchestrate the offense from the high post. “Britta is the complete package,” said MTSV Schwabing head coach Jürgen Bartsch in a pre-season interview. “She can score, rebound, and make the big plays when it matters most.”

In the Karl-May-Spiel, Hering will face her toughest defensive matchup of the season against Greta Keil, who has been a thorn in her side during their previous encounters. Their last meeting in the 2024 EuroLeague semifinals saw Hering outduel Keil in a 78–76 overtime win, but Keil’s 24-point, 12-rebound performance left many wondering how the two would fare in a best-of-three series.

Greta Keil: The WNBA Rookie Taking On Europe’s Best

Greta Keil, a 6’2″ guard-forward, made waves in the 2024 WNBA Draft when she was selected 12th overall by the Connecticut Sun. Despite her rookie status, Keil has already proven herself in Europe, averaging 17.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game in the BBL last season, according to BBL official stats.

Keil’s aggressive style of play and elite athleticism make her a matchup nightmare. She thrives in transition and can finish through contact at the rim. “Greta is the kind of player who changes games,” said Phoenix Hagen coach Markus Köhler in a team press conference. “She doesn’t just score—she dictates the tempo.”

Keil’s biggest challenge in the Karl-May-Spiel will be defending Hering one-on-one. Hering’s size and skill set make her nearly unstoppable in the post, and Keil will need to rely on her speed and IQ to stay in front of her. Their individual battles could very well decide the outcome of the tournament.

How the Karl-May-Spiel Works: Round-Robin to the Final

The Karl-May-Spiel follows a round-robin format, with each team playing three games against every other team in the group stage. The top four teams advance to the semifinals and final, played in a single-elimination bracket. This year’s format ensures that even teams not in the top four of the regular BBL season have a chance to shine.

For MTSV Schwabing and Phoenix Hagen, the stakes are high. Both teams are vying for a spot in the 2026–27 EuroLeague, and a strong showing in Berlin could boost their chances. “This tournament is our chance to prove we belong at the highest level,” said Hering in a pre-tournament press release. “We want to leave no doubt about our ability to compete with the best.”

One key factor to watch is player availability. Both Hering and Keil have been dealing with minor injuries heading into the season, and their ability to stay healthy will be crucial. The Karl-May-Spiel will serve as a dress rehearsal for the EuroLeague, giving both players and coaches a chance to fine-tune their strategies.

Why the Karl-May-Spiel Matters: A 75-Year Tradition

The Karl-May-Spiel was first held in 1951 and has since become a cornerstone of German women’s basketball. Named after the famous German writer Karl May, the tournament is known for its high-energy atmosphere and fan engagement. The 2026 edition will be the first since the 2020 COVID-19 cancellation, making it even more significant.

Historically, the tournament has been a launchpad for German stars. Players like Annett Möller (a three-time EuroLeague MVP) and Lena Roberts (2020 WNBA Draft pick) used the Karl-May-Spiel as a platform to showcase their talents. For Hering and Keil, this tournament could be the defining moment of their careers—especially with the 2028 Paris Olympics on the horizon.

According to BBL statistics, the average attendance for the Karl-May-Spiel over the past five years has been 3,200 fans per game, with the final drawing over 5,000 spectators. The 2026 edition is expected to draw even larger crowds, given the rivalry between Hering and Keil and the tournament’s anniversary status.

Key Storylines to Follow in 2026

• The Hering-Keil Duel: Their one-on-one battles will be the most-watched moments of the tournament. How does Keil’s speed match up against Hering’s size and skill?
• Defensive Schemes: Both teams will need to find ways to slow down their opponents. Can Phoenix Hagen’s zone defense contain MTSV Schwabing’s inside game?
• Rookie Impact: Keil is the clear standout rookie, but how will other young players from the 2BBL wild-card team perform?
• Coaching Adjustments: Bartsch and Köhler will need to make real-time changes based on matchups. Will either coach pull off a surprise strategy?
• Olympic Speculation: Both Hering and Keil are in the mix for Germany’s Olympic roster. Their performances in Berlin could influence coach Christian Fischer’s decisions.

How to Stay Updated: Tickets, Broadcasts, and More

Tickets for the Karl-May-Spiel 2026 will go on sale November 1, 2025, with prices ranging from €15–€40 depending on the seat location. Fans can purchase them through the BBL’s official website.

The tournament will be broadcast live on Sport1 and Das Erste (ARD), with English commentary available on DAZN for international viewers. Highlights will also be featured on BBL TV and social media platforms.

For real-time updates, follow @BBL_Basketball on Twitter/X and @BBL_Basketball on Instagram. The BBL will also host pre-tournament media days in early March 2026, where interviews with Hering, Keil, and their coaches will be available.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Stage Is Set for 2026

The Karl-May-Spiel 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting editions in years, with Britta Hering and Greta Keil leading their teams in a battle for supremacy. As both players aim to solidify their places on Germany’s Olympic roster, their performances in Berlin will be scrutinized like never before.

Mark your calendars for March 15–17, 2026, and stay tuned to ArchySport for in-depth coverage, player interviews, and tactical breakdowns leading up to the tournament.

Will Hering’s experience prevail, or will Keil’s rookie firepower turn the tide? One thing is certain: the Karl-May-Spiel 2026 will be a must-watch for German basketball fans and beyond.

Join the conversation: What are you most excited to see in the 2026 Karl-May-Spiel? Will Hering and Keil finally settle their rivalry, or will another player steal the show? Share your thoughts in the comments below.