Athletes rally in support of Mumbru

Germany's Basketball Team Rallies Around Unwell Coach Mumbru Ahead of Quarterfinals

In a surprising turn of events, Alex Mumbru, the head coach of the German national basketball team, has stepped back during the EuroBasket games due to an acute abdomen that required immediate treatment. The medical emergency occurred just before the start of the tournament in Tampere.

Mumbru, who took over the national team last year, making the EuroBasket his first tournament as head coach, was visibly unwell and had lost some weight during his hospital stay. Despite his illness, the German Basketball Federation's team doctor, who was also responsible for monitoring and caring for Mumbru during the European Championship in Riga, ensured he was well enough to return to the sidelines during the round of 16 game against Portugal on Saturday.

The team, led by captain Dennis Schroder, has expressed their unwavering support for Mumbru at a press conference. Schroder praised Mumbru's mentality after the round of 16 victory, and the team dedicated their win against Portugal to their ailing coach.

Maodo Lo, speaking on behalf of the team, clarified that Mumbru remains the head coach during the EuroBasket. Although Mumbru has stepped back, Alan Ibrahimagic will take over coaching duties during the games. Ibrahimagic will be the voice, but the team will still be playing Mumbru's system, ideas, and philosophy.

Mumbru himself wants the crucial game against Slovenia, led by Luka Doncic, on Wednesday to be the focus, not his personal situation. Despite not being at 100% health, Mumbru considers himself the head coach of the team. Ibrahimagic expressed great respect for Mumbru's decision to step back during the games.

The German basketball team is determined to support their coach and is gearing up for the quarterfinals. The World Cup is scheduled for 2027 in Qatar, with the next competitive game in the World Cup qualifiers not happening until November.

As the team prepares for their match against Slovenia, the focus is on Mumbru's recovery and the team's performance on the court. The statement published in the morning about Mumbru stepping back was removed from the federation's homepage in the afternoon, indicating a positive turn in the coach's health and the team's confidence in their ability to perform under Ibrahimagic's leadership.