By Stathis Trapezanlidis/ info@eurohoops.net
BEKO BBL starts today and Eurohoops presents the teams which are going to have a dominant role in the league analyzing their chances for the title. The trio of Munich, Berlin, Bamberg was during the summer and is going to be during the season the main subject of discussion between the press, fans and other teams in Germany.
Additionally, Oldenburg, Artland and Ulm work really hard and methodically trying to make one step further every year. Tthis step is to get to the semifinals and then to try to be the finalist of the BEKO BBL.
The main contenders
The new power (Bayern Munich), the tradition (Alba Berlin) and the best team since 2004 (Brose Baskets) are going to fight for the title. Eurohoops presents them through three questions. Is Bayern Munich able to win again the title under the pressure of the favorite? Has Alba Berlin the necessary depth in its squad for a successful season in Euroleague and BEKO BBL? How much time does Andrea Trinchieri need to “build” his new Bamberg in his first season in Germany?
Bayern Munich: According to Marko Pesic, Bayern Munich wants the go further this season, which means at least the back to back title in BEKO BBL and the qualification to the Top16 of Euroleague. Staying on top is harder than getting there and the pressure is equally big. According to Munich’s manager, the pressure is less this year so we expect a great season in both leagues.
Dusko Savanovic is the super star of the Bavarians, while Anton Gavel and Vasilije Micic having key roles as they need to replace Malcolm Delaney! After last season in Euroleague, which was the first for many players, the team is more experienced this year and fur sure this is an advantage.
Alba Berlin: Last season Berlin was the finalist of the championship, surprising many people with its performances. However, this season things are going to be even more difficult because of its participation in Euroleague. The question mark is the depth of Berlin’s squad and if it is ready for both leagues. There is enough talent in the team and a coach who knows how to steer it skillfully getting the most out of everyone.
Reggie Redding is undoubtedly the star of this team on the court. The American seems to be ready to grab the chance and make even more significant his presence in European basketball. Jamel McLean and Leon Radosevic are key players for Berlin, while Clifford Hammonds does silent but great job on the court.
Bamberg: There are just three players from last season, so the chemistry of the team during the first months of the season is a question mark for Bamberg. On the other hand, there is no Euroleague, which means less pressure and less difficult games. Coach Andrea Trinchieri has his way and knows how to create good teams either with high or low budgets. The difference is that in Bamberg it’s not enough to only have a good team, because the goal is the title.
Carlon Brown, who played for Hapoel Tel Aviv last season, is the superstar of the team and his performance is going to determine a lot of games. Brad Wanamaker is also a key player for Bamberg, especially his chemistry with Brown on the court.
The second group
Oldenburg, Ulm and Artland Dragons are able to win any opponent especially in front of their fans. In the past they have proven to be the regulators of the final standings. Additionally, it will not be a surprise if any of them – especially Oldenburg – proves more dangerous that expected for the top three contenders.
Oldenburg: Oldenburg kept the key players of its roster and is going to be better than last season having more choices from the bench. It has high aspirations for the upcoming season and it wants to have an important role in the championship.
Rickey Paulding is the superstar of Oldenburg, while Tywain McKee’s quick adaptation to his new environment is very important for his team. The trio of Paulding, Jenkins, McKee are going to be the key.
Artland Dragons: The Dragons come from a very good season after playing in semis, while at the beginning of the season their main target was just getting to the playoffs. There’s a big question mark whether they can repeat their last season performances or being even better. The Dragons are a low profile team and this is an advantage. They want the best without feeling a lot of pressure.
David Holston is the star of the team, while Anthony King and Lawrence Hill are key players. Antonio Graves is also very important although his job is very silent on the court.
Ulm: Ulm, which has the sixth largest budget in the league, wants to get into the top five. Oldenburg and Artland Dragons are its main rivals. It’s a competitive unit and one of the best teams in BEKO BBL despite losing significant players the last two years. For one more year,theyt wants to play quick and attractive basketball.
Per Gunther is the star of the team and from his performances depends a lot the upcoming season. The German playmaker is Ulm’s mind on the court, the guy taking the big decisions.