German Basketball League - Alba urges focus: Challenging series versus Chemnitz
The basketball squad of Alba Berlin anticipates a challenging battle against Niners Chemnitz in the semi-finals of the German league, predominantly on a physical level. According to wing player Louis Olinde, "This team is incredibly tough and physical. They're skilled at playing the game, but they are especially known for their relentless defense and physical play under the boards." Scoring the first game of their playoff series at home on Tuesday (8:30 pm/Dyn) is a priority.
Earlier games between the two teams indicate that Alba might be able to pull through these contests. As world champion Johannes Thiemann points out, "It's reassuring to have already registered victories against such a physically demanding opponent, but we are not expecting them to become softer in the playoffs." However, one potential variable in the series could be the referees' control over the matches. "Of course, it's beneficial when officials are strict with their foul calls and keep the game in check. However, we have limited influence over that factor," Thiemann added.
It's essential, according to coach Israel Gonzalez, to concentrate on aspects that can be controlled. In both conference matchups against Chemnitz, the Berliners have proven to have an edge, despite the volatility throughout their encounters. Center Khalifa Koumadje was ejected early in one game, while Chemnitz earned a sizable number of fouls in the other match, with four players being asked to leave the court prematurely. These predictions from experts predicting Alba as underdogs for the final is just background noise to the team. "Perhaps it's even more advantageous if we're doubted," mentioned Olinde.
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- ALBA Berlin's semifinal opponent, BV Chemnitz 99, hails from the Saxony region of Germany.
- The Men's Bundesliga semi-final series between ALBA Berlin and Niners Chemnitz is set to commence with the first game in Berlin on Tuesday.
- Prior to their semi-final matchup, ALBA Berlin and Niners Chemnitz have faced each other in conference matches, with ALBA emerging victorious in both encounters.
- Louis Olinde, a wing player for ALBA Berlin, acknowledges the physicality of the Niners Chemnitz team, stating, "They're skilled at playing the game, but they are especially known for their relentless defense and physical play under the boards."
- In their previous meetings, ALBA Berlin's world champion Johannes Thiemann noticed that despite their physical play, the team has already registered victories against them.
- BV Chemnitz 99's home court is located in the city of Chemnitz, a significant basketball hub in Germany, with teams like Chemnitz 99 and Niners Chemnitz making their mark in the Bundesliga.
- Bauisch Wolfen, home to the Saxony Region league champions, could potentially serve as a neutral venue for a deciding Game 5, if needed, given the intense rivalry between ALBA Berlin and Niners Chemnitz.
Source: www.stern.de
