World Cup Test: Basketballers narrowly lose to top team in Ludwigsburg

The German women's basketball team began their World Cup preparation with a narrow 65-60 defeat against vice-European champions Spain in Ludwigsburg. Despite the loss, the team is focused on their goal of winning a medal at the upcoming World Championship.

Alexis Peterson and Luisa Geiselsöder emerged as the top scorers for Germany, both contributing 13 points. Geiselsöder, a WNBA player who recently saw limited action with the Portland Fire, has joined the team for the full preparation period. Her presence is a boost as the team navigates the absence of other key players currently active in the WNBA, including Leonie Fiebich, Frieda Bühner, and Nyara Sabally.

Head coach Olaf Lange was also absent, represented by Stefan Möller in Ludwigsburg, as Lange is still involved with WNBA duties. The participation of star player Satou Sabally remains uncertain due to lingering effects from a second concussion, adding another layer of challenge for the German squad.

The World Championship, to be held in Berlin from September 4-13, will see Germany open against Spain. Their group also includes Japan and Mali. The team's objective is clear: to secure a medal, a goal that will require overcoming these initial hurdles and integrating all available talent.