FC Bayern gets off to a strong start in the final: Ulm has no chance in the first game!

FC Bayern gets off to a strong start in the final: Ulm has no chance in the first game!

In an exciting first final of the Basketball Bundesliga, FC Bayern Munich defeated Ratiopharm Ulm 82:66 (37:36). The game, which took place today, June 15, 2025, was extremely close in the first three quarters before Munich turned up the heat in the final quarter and took a clear win. With this success they lead 1-0 in the best-of-five series. Bayern have done everything they can to avoid a titleless season for coach Gordon Herbert, who is hoping for the league title in his first year as coach, while Ulm are hoping for the second title they have been aiming for since 2023. The next two games will take place on June 24th and 26th, although Ulm had already asked for these games to be postponed in order to enable their players to take part in the NBA draft. However, this request was rejected by the BBL, which caused dissatisfaction among the Ulm team, who now have to contend with uncertainty in the team after the participation of Noa Essengue and Ben Saraf is also at risk.

Bayern, led by their best throwers Andreas Obst and Shabazz Napier, who each scored 20 points, were ultimately able to win the game in the final quarter. Justinian Jessup from Ulm started strong and also shone with 22 points, but in the end it was the physique and cleverness of the Munich team that made the difference. After a narrow score of 67:66, Bayern turned the tide in their favor and thus completed the first step towards the championship. The next encounter takes place on Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. in Neu-Ulm, where Bayern has the chance to gain a decisive advantage. With another win they could clinch the title on Saturday.

Disagreements and decisions

The displeasure in Ulm was primarily caused by the league's decision not to approve the request to reschedule the game. The result is that the Ulm players now have to deal with the possibility of not being able to take part in the crucial draft dates. This not only has consequences for the development of the players, but also for the entire team structure, as those responsible at Ratiopharm emphasize. The BAG has already taken a position and is criticizing the BBL and Bayern for the decision.

As already mentioned, the course of the game was characterized by frequent leadership changes. Ulm started strong and took a 6-0 lead, but Bayern remained stubborn and fought their way back into the game. With this first game, Bayern show that they are serious contenders for the title; they have a good knack for decisive moments. But Ulm should by no means be underestimated and will certainly do everything in its power to fight back in the coming games to keep the series exciting. So things continue to be exciting and unpredictable for viewers.

If you would like to find out more about the BBL playoffs, you can find further information at kicker.de. For updates about the ongoing final and upcoming games ZDF today an excellent point of contact. And also Sports Sky keeps you up to date on what's happening in the Basketball Bundesliga.