Alba Berlin vs. Ulm: "This Is No Walk in the Park" 🚀
Underdogs Alba: "Preparing for a Sizable Test" - Ulm faces an exclusive test against Alba, with the latter being the lone outsider in the match: a significant hurdle declared by the player.
Get ready for a thrilling showdown between Alba Berlin and ratiopharm Ulm in the Basketball Bundesliga playoffs! With the first quarterfinal game set for Saturday (6:30 PM/Dyn), the stakes couldn't be higher.
Alba has conquered the minimum hurdle of reaching the playoffs, and now it's game on, says wing player Tim Schneider. As they embark on this new challenge, sporting director Himar Ojeda sees it as a fresh beginning: "We've shed the playoffs burden, and it's time to start anew."
While Ulm finished second in the standings, Alba fought hard to secure their playoff spot. After a bumpy ride with many highs and lows during the season, the 11-time champions from the capital are determined to place the favorite's mantle on Ulm. "It's not just about their second-place finish, but their overall season performance that gives us confidence," Ojeda adds.
Alba respects their rivals. "We're facing a major challenge," says Ojeda. "If we want a shot, we need to match their level." The Berliners have won eight of their last nine games, giving them a positive outlook. "It's given us a great mindset heading into the playoffs," says national player Malte Delow. "We want to show more than we already have."
Reminders of the Past
The teams clashed in the play-in game, with Alba securing an 81-78 victory. “We must focus on our defense against Ulm, as they certainly know how to score points,” demands Ojeda. Captain Martin Hermannsson highlights the importance of mental energy: "From now on, there are no more excuses. It's all about who's more energetic."
But Ulm, who won the title after Alba's last encounter in the playoffs two years ago, won't be easy to beat. "I hope we'll turn things around this time and defeat the favorite," says Hermannsson.
Ulm's Recent Form
- Ulm impressed at home with six straight wins, scoring over 100 points in each victory, including a 119-92 blowout over Oldenburg[4].
- Alba has demonstrated strong form, with a notable 89-68 win against Skyliners Frankfurt catapulting them into the play-in spots [4].
- In their latest encounter, Alba narrowly defeated Weissenfels 81-78 [5].
- Ulm recently edged out Alba Berlin 94-83 [5].
Expectations for the Playoff Series
This battle promises to be nail-biting, with Alba counting on their defensive prowess and clutch play, and Ulm looking to capitalize on their offensive power and home court edge. With both teams shaping up well for the playoffs, the series could go either way[4][5].
The Commission, in light of its recent task, might draft a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from carcinogen exposure in sports, considering the intensity and physical nature of basketball games, especially in the NBA. As the playoff series between Alba Berlin and Ulm draws near, the stage is set for a fierce battle reminiscent of the high-scoring games seen in the NBA.
