RADOM (FIBA U16 European Championship 2016) - Germany may have started their campaign with defeat, but they maintain high hopes after bouncing back against the hosts on Day 2.

Hendrik Drescher is the only German player with previous experience at a European Championship and he is confident his team will continue to improve as the tournament progresses.

The star forward stood out on the team last year and is already leading by example in Radom after his double-double against Poland helped Germany pick up their first win on Saturday.

While their offence has not been in full flow, it's on the other end of the court where Germany can really make their mark, according to Drescher.

"We have had two tough games where we have really had to defend well," he said.

"I think we have done a good job so far and we were much better on both ends [against Poland].

"Our defending is very important - we want to defend and do a good job as a team.

"If we are able to play our game and have solid performances, then we can keep getting better."

Germany have kept their opponents to less than 60 points in their first two games and may have got closer to Croatia had it not been for some timely bursts from Luka Samanic.

Drescher is averaging 14 points and nine rebounds in two games so far and was able to help his side over the hurdle of facing the tournament hosts.

"It is always difficult playing against a home team where all the fans are cheering against you, especially in a big tournament," he said.

"But it makes it more special when you are able to win and we did a good job at focusing on our game.

"It is a great feeling to have good stats, but it is all about helping the team win as that is the most important thing."

Since making their return to Division A in 2009, Germany are yet to make it past the Quarter-Finals stage - something that needs to change if they want to claim a medal in Radom.

And, they can take inspiration from their female compatriots in Udine, Italy after the U16 girls reached the Final by taking down France on Saturday.

"We want to take the title," Drescher said of his side's expectations.

"The minimum goal is to reach the Quarter-Finals, but we want to go all the way - that is the main aim.

"We have lots of talent on the team, everyone is together and there is great chemistry within the group."

Germany conclude Group B with another tough test against Turkey before the tournament moves onto the Round of 16 stage on Tuesday. 

FIBA