Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
Ratiopharm Ulm
As part of the fourth game in the German BBL finals, Ulm will face Bayern. The clash is set for Tuesday, June 24, with tip-off scheduled for 18:00 Central European Time. I'm offering a bet on the total points in this encounter.
Match preview
Ulm are traditionally strong on their home court and play fast, attacking basketball. Ratiopharm are chasing only their second-ever German championship, which gives the team extra motivation in these decisive games.
In 2023, they pulled off a real sensation after finishing only seventh in the regular season. Notably, Ulm then swept Bayern 3-0 in the semifinals and went on to outduel Bonn in the finals.
In the playoffs, the team relies on three-point shooting and aggressive drives to the basket. In previous home games, Ulm have consistently scored over 75-80 points, making full use of the court and deploying unconventional rotations. However, their weak spot remains perimeter defense and securing rebounds on their own glass.
This was especially evident in the previous round, where they narrowly overcame Würzburg. Interestingly, Ulm also competed in this season’s EuroCup, but found no luck there and failed to even make the playoffs. An early exit from European competition allowed them to focus on the domestic title, which is now within their grasp.
Gordon Herbert’s squad is all about power, discipline, and roster depth. However, this mainly applies to their BBL performances, as Bayern have yet to achieve headline-making success on the European stage.
That said, this season is definitely one to remember for the Munich club, as their level of play in the EuroLeague has noticeably improved, allowing them to finally challenge for a playoff spot. The Germans performed well in the play-in, first defeating Crvena Zvezda before falling to Real Madrid with no chance.
In the BBL, Bayern know how to ramp up the tempo as the game progresses, play organized defense, and are especially dangerous in the second half. Their players’ international experience gives them a major edge in the domestic playoffs, where they’ve lost just one game so far.
Surprisingly, though, Ulm have already handed the Munich side two defeats and are on the verge of clinching the series. Bayern must win the next game or this could be the final showdown between these two.
Match facts
- Ulm have won 14 straight games on their home court.
- Bayern have lost only once in their previous away games.
- Ulm average 95 points per game at home, while Bayern average 83 points per game on the road.
Players to watch
Vladimir Lucic remains arguably Bayern’s main weapon on the floor, despite his veteran status. The big Serbian forward has noticeably boosted his stats in the playoffs and frequently emerges as his team’s top performer. Bayern’s success under the rim relies heavily on his play, making his neutralization a key task for Ulm.
H2H
- Ratiopharm have beaten Bayern in their last two home games.
- The series stands at 2-1 in Ulm’s favor.
Prediction
Bayern look like the favorites, but Ulm will fight to the very end, with the championship title on the line. Expect a high-paced and high-scoring contest, especially in the second half when emotions will run highest. The visitors have no room for error and will throw everything at this game. I’m backing the visitors to succeed and force a decisive Game 5 in the series.
