Prospect of a wildcard entry. - Basketball team experiences new optimism after being demoted
The situation: Recently, only one contender from the second division (ProA) can secure a permit for the top league according to the examination of the league's licensing committee. 18 first and 6 second division teams had sent in their applications.
The two most likely candidates for promotion in the ProA are the ones that have the sports right to go up. Despite the playoff semifinals in progress there, it's evident that only one finalist can progress - it would be the victor of the series between the Frankfurt Skyliners and the Gladiators Trier (requires an improved financial plan by May 31).
The other semi-final will involve Phoenix Hagen (did not submit a license application) and the Karlsruhe Lions. Nevertheless, their license application for the BBL was complete and got turned down.
Basketball Shocker: Might relegated Crailsheim remain?
"We submitted our license application in April and, with the Europahalle as our prospective venue, we fulfill one of the key prerequisites for a license," stated Commercial Director Paul Alshut in a public statement. "However, the league is quite strict regarding the monetary resources of the candidates. We have not yet completely established the infrastructure needed to meet the minimum budget of 3.5 million euros required for participating in the BBL."
In essence, Karlsruhe lacks sufficient funds to move up.
This, however, might result in an opportunity for the Merlins. Following their demotion, their sporting director Ingo Enskat conveyed at Dyn that the team was considering it: "We're aware of who's playing who in the ProA playoffs, when, where, and against whom, and what possibilities this provides."
The issue with this is that the wildcard money might not be available for the player budget. The three teams that bought their way into the league in the past were not successful, with Crailsheim itself (2016), Gießen 46ers (2022), and Frankfurt Skyliners (2023) all getting relegated the following season...
Basketball Heavyweight Stuckey Inks Contract Extension Until 2026
Another sign that could suggest Crailsheim will stay in the BBL. On Tuesday, the club from Hohenlohe extended the contract of their star player Maurice "Mo" Stuckey (33, playing for them since 2019) until 2026. The sharpshooter noted: "I've been here for five years and just feel very comfortable. Close familial ties weigh significantly for me. Many things just feel right and I'm looking forward to our expedition together over the next two years."
Could they stay married to the BBL?
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Source: symclub.org
