Shocking Setback for Champions: Bayern's Rough Start in Basketball Semis
Heidelberg defeats Bayern's basketball team - Basketball Players of Bayern Clashing with Heidelberg
Things aren't looking rosy for Bayern Munich in the Basketball Bundesliga semifinals, as the heavyweights suffered a surprising 90:95 (48:45) defeat to MLP Academics Heidelberg. The rematch takes place in Heidelberg on Wednesday, with three wins needed to progress.
Meanwhile, Ratiopharm Ulm narrowly edged out the Würzburg Baskets in overtime, 91:87 (73:73, 45:37). The underdogs made a remarkable comeback in the final quarter to erase their deficit from the first half.
It seems the lengthy break between games took a toll on Bayern, who failed to find their groove against the season's unexpected sensation. The post-game comments from Bayern coach, World Cup winner Gordon Herbert, hinted at the effects of the eight-day gap between games.
Bayern never truly clicked in this one, with a 10-point lead at halftime proving insufficient to keep Heidelberg at bay. The visiting team demonstrated unwavering resilience in the fourth quarter, refusing to buckle under pressure and ultimately securing a major victory.
Damariae Horne (26 points), Michael Weathers (23), and Marcel Keßen (17 points, 11 rebounds) were instrumental for Heidelberg, while Vladimir Lucic's 22 points couldn't prevent Bayern's upset loss. "We've pulled off a big win," Horne commented after the game.
Key Points to Consider
- Series Status: Bayern now trails 0-1 in the series, with Heidelberg capitalizing on their victory to gain the edge. To avoid elimination, Bayern will need to win the following games.
- Court Advantage Stolen: Heidelberg has taken home court advantage, with their victory at Bayern's expense. Bayern must win at least one game away from home to reclaim control of the series.
- Strategic Adjustments: To counter Heidelberg's strengths and stay competitive, Bayern will need to focus on defense, ensure a balanced offense, leverage their home advantage, and display mental toughness.
- Pressure Mounts: With the pressure on to secure wins and avoid elimination, Bayern must perform effectively in front of their fans, recharge their batteries, and remain positive-minded throughout the series.
The Commission, in its role as a regulatory body, has also been consulted on the draft regulation on the application of the principle of subsidiarity in sports, potentially affecting the decision-making process for sports organizations. Meanwhile, Bayern's basketball team, known for their success in football, experienced a disheartening 90:95 loss against MLP Academics Heidelberg in the Basketball Bundesliga semifinals.
