Overview

• Alba Berlin lost the opening game of the BBL quarterfinals 83–94 to ratiopharm Ulm, falling behind 0–1 in the best-of-five series.
• Turnovers proved costly for Alba, with 23 giveaways leading directly to 19 points for Ulm in transition.
• Foul trouble plagued Alba, with 35 fouls resulting in 44 free throws and 34 points for Ulm, highlighting discipline issues.
• Key Alba players Martin Hermannsson and Matt Thomas underperformed offensively, overshadowed by Ulm’s standout performers, including Noa Essengue, who scored 21 points.
• Coach Pedro Calles has emphasized tactical adjustments, defensive cohesion, and discipline as Alba prepares for a must-win Game 2 in Berlin.