Drama on the Court: Ulm Prevails in Thrilling Derby
Ratiopharm Ulm Claims Leadership in Bundesliga
Stand: 6.10.2024, 0:07 Uhr
In a nail-biting showdown, ratiopharm Ulm emerged victorious against MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, clinching a 63-62 win that propels them to the top of the Basketball Bundesliga. With 5,773 fans packed into the Neu-Ulmer Arena, the excitement was palpable as the final seconds of the game ticked away. Just two seconds remained on the clock, and all eyes were on Ludwigsburg’s Justin Simon, who stood at the free-throw line—an opportunity to tie the game with a third free throw. However, his shot only grazed the rim.
Ulmer fans celebrate a thrilling victory after a dramatic finish.
In a twist of fate, Simon managed to grab the rebound, putting him in a position for a last-second two-pointer that could have won the game for Ludwigsburg. However, as the buzzer sounded, the ball lodged precariously between the rim and the backboard, leading to a tumultuous mix of relief and jubilation among Ulm supporters.
Coach Harrelson: Luck Played a Role
Shortly after the game, Ulm’s captain Thomas Klepeisz took to the mic, rallying the fans with a celebratory chant: “Derbysieger, Derbysieger, Hey. Hey!” In the post-game press conference, Coach Ty Harrelson acknowledged a bit of luck on their side but emphasized their effort: “That victory was nothing short of deserved based on our fight throughout the game.” Ludwigsburg’s coach, John Patrick, praised his team for their resilience, noting, “They were just a step better than us tonight. I’m proud of the way we contended against a strong Ulm squad.”
The early stages of the game favored Ludwigsburg’s strategy, which revolved around aggressive defense. Ulm struggled, committing six turnovers in the first quarter and falling behind 12-19. However, a shift in momentum occurred in the second quarter. With clever ball movement and strategic three-pointers from players like Herkenhoff and Klepeisz, Ulm clawed their way back into contention, heading into halftime trailing 34-37.
Defense Steals the Show
As the game resumed, the tables turned dramatically. The Ulm defense tightened considerably, and Ludwigsburg would endure over five minutes without scoring a single point, allowing Ulm to pull ahead 46-37. Despite their efforts, Ludwigsburg, powered by quick drives from Simon and Ezra Manjon, would not be easily dispelled. The final minutes of the game were punctuated with tension yet yielded few baskets, making every point even more significant.
Hunter Maldonado puts in a hard-fought performance against Ulm’s Noa Essengue.
With just five seconds left and Ulm leading 63-60, a typically strategic foul by Noa Essengue on Simon, who was attempting a three-pointer, could have turned the tide. Simon was awarded three free throws; every one of them mattered under the spotlight of what had been a pressure-packed game.
Ulm Remains Unstoppable
In the end, however, a blend of skill, timing, and perhaps a sprinkle of good fortune saw Ulm maintaining their unbeaten record, now standing as the sole undefeated team in the BBL with five wins out of five matches. Coach Harrelson reflected on their accomplishment: “It feels fantastic to be at the top. I’m incredibly proud of my team, though we recognize the journey ahead in this long season.”
The thrilling derby undoubtedly marked a significant moment in the early season, setting the stage for what looks to be an intense race for the championship.
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