Basketball players preparing for their match in Lithuania, utilizing ice baths, saunas, and red light therapy treatments.
In the ongoing EuroBasket competition, the German national basketball team has shown remarkable resilience and determination, as they navigated through various challenges in their opening game against Sweden.
Despite the absence of head coach Alex Mumbru due to an "acute abdomen," and an unusual afternoon playing time, Germany remained calm and controlled, displaying a strong start with NBA star Franz Wagner driving to the basket and Dennis Schröder setting up Daniel Theis, resulting in an early 8:0 lead. Mumbru was able to watch the game from his hospital bed, no doubt feeling proud of his team's performance.
The team's star player, Franz Wagner, contributed 21 points in the team's first game, leading them to a memorable victory against Sweden with a score of 105:83. Interim coach Alan Ibrahimagic was satisfied with the team's performance, but felt the situation with the coach was always in the back of his mind.
The team's next challenge comes in the form of Lithuania, a match considered the biggest of the group phase. Ibrahimagic stated that he hopes Voigtmann will play against Lithuania, but unfortunately, Voigtmann will not be available due to knee surgery and will miss the upcoming games against Lithuania, Great Britain, and Finland, as well as the knockout phase. His role as co-captain and experienced player will be deeply missed by the team during this period.
The game against Lithuania developed into a relaxed affair, with Germany showing defensive weaknesses and lapses but always keeping the opponent at bay. Ibrahimagic's team relied less on three-point shooting in the offense compared to the Montenegro game, indicating a strategic approach to each match.
The German Basketball Federation (DBB) signed off on their post-game message with "For Alex," expressing their support for their ailing coach. The team's resilience was further tested when they were woken up by a false fire alarm the night before the game, but they managed to overcome this obstacle and emerged victorious.
As the competition continues, the German team will need to maintain their focus and determination to overcome their upcoming challenges, starting with the match against Lithuania. Spain and Slovenia, both reigning champions, have already suffered losses in their opening games, providing an opportunity for Germany to make a significant impact in the competition.
