FC Bayern ruthlessly advances to the play-off finale.
The Würzburg Baskets couldn't compete: FC Bayern Munich's basketball team sailed through to the German championship semi-finals effortlessly. In the finals, a clash with their main rival loomed.
FC Bayern Munich is heading to the match-ups for the German championship as the first qualified team. They defeated the Würzburg Baskets on Sunday with a score of 75:61 (38:33), completing a 3:0 sweep in the best-of-five semi-final series. The opponent for the final series is yet to be determined, as Chemnitz Niners and Alba Berlin are now level at 1:1.
A minor nuisance for the 3,140 spectators in the packed Taktake Arena occurred before the start. Despite their string of injuries, Würzburg had to do without Isaiah Washington. The guard was present at the game, but couldn't play due to his painful ankle injury.The hosts established their presence in the game swiftly, stopping most of the opponent's shots and allowing only 12 points from the favorites.
Emotional Goodbye
The Baskets' accuracy in the finishing touches tricked the 3x3 team in the second quarter. The favorites suddenly grew more efficient both offensively and defensively, closing the gap. In contrast, Würzburg's shooting accuracy faltered, and they gave away too many balls. The visitors exploited this, taking control for the first time at 24:22 in the middle of the second quarter, extending it until the break.
Post-recess, Bayern left their opponents behind even more. Ibaka was particularly unstoppable in the paint. Würzburg, however, refused to surrender, but had nothing left to offer. In the final quarter, nothing changed, and the cup-holders wrapped up the game.
Emotionally charged, Würzburg's Felix Hoffmann played his last game. The 34-year-old was significantly cheered on by the audience and tearfully bid his fans farewell.
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Despite their rivals Bayern Munich Basketball's dominance in the German championship playoffs, the love for basketball in Würzburg remains strong. Even with the absence of key player Isaiah Washington due to an ankle injury, the Würzburg Baskets hoped to make a impact in the semifinals, but unfortunately, they were no match for Bayern's exceptional play during the basketball playoffs.
