Trip to America - Ulm basketball players face test match against NBA club
Basketball-Bundesligist Ratiopharm Ulm denies hosting a test game against a high-priced opponent from the North American professional league NBA during the new season. The match against the Portland Trail Blazers will take place on October 16th, between the away games at Besiktas Istanbul and EWE Baskets Oldenburg, according to the club's announcement.
"As far as I know, this is the first time a Bundesligist has had a test game on the home court of an NBA team," said Sport Director Thorsten Leibenath. He and the sports management had tried to reschedule the two mandatory games, but it was not possible, they added.
"I consider this a great honor for all of us that we were even asked," said Leibenath. "Ratiopharm Ulm apparently has a team that is worth a test game for an NBA team. A perception that we, as a club, but also the players have earned. Therefore, I consider it unfortunate that we are not doing everything in our power to make it possible."
- Despite the upcoming test game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Ratiopharm Ulm will still compete in the Bundesliga.
- Although Thorsten Leibenath and the sports management attempted to reschedule the games against EWE Baskets Oldenburg and Besiktas Istanbul, it was unsuccessful.
- In the United States of America, the Portland Trail Blazers are a renowned team in the NBA, and their visit to Ratiopharm Ulm is highly anticipated by basketball fans in Germany.
- Both Ratiopharm Ulm and EWE Baskets Oldenburg have tough schedules in the 2023-2024 season, with matches against teams from around Europe and North America.
- Following the test game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Ratiopharm Ulm will return to competitive play in the Bundesliga, aiming to secure a top spot in the league.
- The match against Thorsten Leibenath's team will serve as an excellent opportunity for the Portland Trail Blazers to assess their roster and strategies ahead of the new NBA season in America.
