ALBA Berlin won the second BBL finals game against favorite Bayern Munich 86‑79 on Sunday, leveling the series at 1‑1. The victory came after a 40‑45 halftime deficit and gives the Berliners a chance to decide the next two matches at home.
What happened?
Bayern led 45‑40 after the first half, but ALBA turned the tide in the third quarter with precise threes and aggressive defense. Jack Kayil, only 20, scored 16 points, while Neno Dimitrijevic topped the scoring chart with 17 points. Bayern veteran Andreas Obst managed 12 points, far fewer than his 33 in Game 1.
| Team | Points |
|---|---|
| ALBA Berlin | 86 |
| Bayern Munich | 79 |
Coach Svetislav Pesic, 76, criticized the late shift to defense and stressed the need for more ball‑movement focus. Despite his comments, the game remained a "festival of basketball," as he called Game 1.
Why does this matter for ALBA Berlin?
The tie gives the Berliners a psychological edge as they now host the final two games. Another win would complete their twelfth championship – a record in German basketball. Kayil, already linked to an NBA move, spoke of "a lot of energy and confidence" and showed he can ready the team for the finale.
What comes next?
The next showdown takes place on Wednesday at the Max‑Schmeling‑Hall, followed by a possible decisive game on Friday. If ALBA clinches the series, Coach Pesic would become the first coach to win the German title in four different decades (1997‑2000 with Berlin, 2014 with Munich). The Munich‑Berlin rivalry has now met in the playoffs for the tenth time – a BBL record.
Who are the key players?
Jack Kayil (16 points) and Neno Dimitrijevic (17 points) provided ALBA's offensive firepower. On Bayern's side, Andreas Obst (12 points) remained a key scorer but was not as dominant as in Game 1. Coach Pesic must now tweak his tactics to tighten defense and speed up ball circulation.
The upcoming two games will decide whether ALBA Berlin defends its crown or Bayern Munich claims a second consecutive title. Fans from both cities await a result that could shape the future of German basketball.