German BBL began with ALBA Berlin hosting Telecom Baskets Bonn, as Ilsalo and his team stunned the reigning champions in a high-paced game that ended with an 86-88 win for the ‘Rhinelanders’.
Despite ALBA’s strong start in the first quarter (25-12), Bonn found a way to come back, thanks to Parker Jackson-Cartwright, who propelled his team to a dramatic victory.
The University of Arizona alumni, who made his debut in the easyCredit BBL, finished the game with 25 points, five rebounds, six assists and six steals.
The last season’s MVP in the French second division set a career-best performance in his first appearance with his new team. Bonn took the lead in the final quarter, entering the last two minutes (86-87) of the contest in front, thanks to an 8-0 run.
After several boneheaded plays from both sides during the last few minutes of the contest, Bonn was able to hold off ALBA Berlin and secure the win.
Tyson Ward followed Jackson-Cartwright with 15 points and seven rebounds, while Saulius Kulvietis added 11 points and six rebounds.
As for ALBA Berlin, who,will compete in EuroLeague a week from now, Marcus Erickson was the leading scorer with 16 points.
This weekend, the other 16 teams, including favourites for the title, such as cup winners Bayern Munich and MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg, will also start the season.
