GER – Bamberg struggle but win at Eisbären to claim 2-0 lead

BREMERHAVEN (BBL) - Brose Baskets Bamberg have a 2-0 lead in their German first round play-off series against Eisbären Bremerhaven after an 88-84 win on Wednesday night.

Bamberg boss Chris Fleming was relieved to get the victory because his team’s performance, he felt, left much to be desired.

"From the start, Bremerhaven was the team that set the pace in the first three quarters,” Fleming said.

“They showed more energy and fighting spirit and a greater willingness to win the game.

I was very surprised and disappointed by the performance of my team.

“After the mental preparation for the game, I would have expected something different.

“At the end of the day, we won the game and not because we played good basketball.

“I am proud of the team for finding a way to win the game.”

Anton Gavel had 21 points, Brian Roberts 19 and Reyshawn Terry 15 for Bamberg.

Germany international Philipp Schwethelm had 20 points in defeat, with the Polar Bears also getting 19 points and 10 rebounds from Sean Denison.

“Anton Gavel was crucial,” Fleming said.

“I am glad that the series now goes back to Bamberg, but we have a lot of work to do and we’ll certainly see on Sunday a different game. "

Deutsche Bank Skyliners seized a 2-0 lead in their series with BG Goettingen after a 76-67 triumph.

The contest had to be played in Kassel with the Violets' preferred venue, the Lokhalle, unavailable.

DaShaun Wood poured in 26 points and handed out eight assists for the Skyliners with Roger Powell adding 16 points.

BG Goettingen, who played in this season's Eurocup, were led by Kyle Bailey's 19 points.

The eight-time Beko BBL champions ALBA Berlin edged EWE Baskets Oldenburg 80-77 with Julius Jenkins’ 18 points and Bryce Taylor’s 17 leading the way.

EWE Baskets, who were playing at home, got 15 points from Mindaugas Lukauskis, a member of Lithuania's national team at the 2008 Olympics.

Oliver Stevic contributed 14 points to the Oldenburg outtfit.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig did manage to pull even in their series with the Artland Dragons, winning Game 2 at home, 94-81.

Brandon Thomas led six Braunschweig players in double figures with 26 points.

Artland got 21 from Tyrese Rice.

FIBA