Ratiopharm Ulm confirmed that after the OrangeAcademy’s ProB final appearance, the youth squad will step into ProA – the team opens the season on September 27 away in Bremerhaven.
What does the promotion mean for the OrangeAcademy?
The promotion means the OrangeAcademy now faces clubs with multi‑million budgets and clear promotion ambitions. Despite an average age of 18, Ulm aims to develop players in the paint, on the perimeter and in transition. The goal stays to ready athletes for the BBL roster, even though ProA is physically tougher.
Who is leading the coaching staff?
Mehdi Mary, 46, takes over as head coach. The Frenchman brings international experience and a focus on player development. He replaces Florian Flabb, who moves to the Crailsheim Merlins. General manager Dr. Thomas Stoll notes that Mary will steer the young crew and reshape offensive and defensive schemes.
What does the ProA schedule look like?
The season kicks off on September 27 in Bremerhaven, followed by the first home game on October 2 against the Kirchheim Knights. Two days later Ulm meets Heidelberg, a former BBL side. On October 18 the first clash with Flabb occurs, now as coach of the Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. The tight schedule forces quick recovery, yet the club remains optimistic.
Which challenges lie ahead?
ProA demands higher rebounding, blocking and stealing numbers. Opponents like Crailsheim Merlins or Kirchheim Knights feature established scorers and strong pick‑and‑roll combos. Ulm plans to ready its youngsters through intensive drills and targeted video breakdowns. Emphasis is on consistent quarter‑by‑quarter play and limiting turnovers.
How does this affect Ratiopharm Ulm’s future?
Long‑term, the OrangeAcademy should become a talent pipeline. Successful integration of players such as Nico Bretzel, who already logged ProA minutes, illustrates the potential. If the youth can hold their own in ProA, Ulm can rely more on home‑grown talent and trim BBL roster expenses.