BBL: Ratiopharm Ulm defeats Hamburg Towers in physical showdown

Ratiopharm Ulm secured a crucial 81-72 victory over the Hamburg Towers in a heated Easycredit Basketball-Bundesliga clash on April 25, 2026, marking their second win in the season series against the northern German side.

The victory came after a fiercely contested game that saw Ulm overcome an early deficit and maintain control through the final minutes, improving their position in the playoff race. The Towers, who had already secured their Bundesliga status earlier in the week, played without playoff pressure but showed resilience throughout.

Ulm began the game with intense defensive pressure, jumping out to a 15-2 lead early in the first quarter. This early advantage proved decisive as they managed to hold off Hamburg’s attempts to close the gap despite the Towers’ efforts to rally.

The game was notable for its physicality, with multiple incidents drawing attention from players and officials alike. Hamburg’s Martin Breunig described the atmosphere post-game as “like a kind of war,” reflecting the intense nature of the contest.

Ulm’s Nelson Weidemann acknowledged the heightened tensions, stating the team had “an open score to settle” after losing the first meeting between the sides 82-84 in Hamburg earlier in the season. He added that while the game became “a bit dirtier,” it was ultimately enjoyable and entertaining for the fans in attendance.

A key moment occurred late in the first quarter when Ulm’s Chris Ledlum made contact with Hamburg’s Zacharie Perrin under the basket, leading to Perrin going to the ground. The incident drew immediate reaction from both benches and contributed to the game’s increasingly physical tone.

The Ulm squad benefited from the home crowd energy, with 5,485 fans in attendance at the Ratiopharm Arena. Following the final buzzer, the team and supporters gathered on the court for a commemorative photo to celebrate the club’s 25th anniversary.

Statistically, Ulm shot 29-of-71 from the field (40.8%), while Hamburg managed 26-of-68 (38.2%). Ulm held a slight edge in rebounding, 38-35, and committed fewer turnovers (11 vs. 14). Both teams shot 13-of-26 from the free-throw line (50%).

The result leaves Ulm in contention for a direct playoff berth as they continue their push for postseason positioning. For Hamburg, the loss ends their season without playoff implications, having already avoided relegation earlier in the week.

Looking ahead, Ulm will look to build on this victory in their upcoming fixtures as they aim to solidify their standing in the BBL playoffs race. Hamburg, now focused on concluding their season on a positive note, will seek to finish strong in their remaining games.

What do you think about the physical nature of the game and its implications for both teams moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments below.