The German men’s basketball team has suffered another setback ahead of its upcoming four international games. Following Andi Obst, whose availability remains unclear, Isaiah Hartenstein’s comeback has now also been called off.
The German Basketball Federation (DBB) announced this on Tuesday afternoon. According to the statement, the center is dealing with an ankle injury. After consulting with his NBA team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, it was decided not to take any further risks.
Hartenstein’s absence is extremely unfortunate. The 2025 NBA champion last played for the DBB eight years ago and announced in recent months that he wanted to take on more responsibility on the national team. In an interview with basketball-world.news, he also explained that participating in the August window is important for building chemistry ahead of next year’s World Cup.
To avoid missing out entirely on this process, Hartenstein will remain with the national team in Hamburg, where they are currently preparing for the Super Cup this coming weekend. His stay is intended to help him get to know his “teammates and the support staff” better.
On paper, a late nomination wouldn’t be necessary
For the German national basketball team, Hartenstein is already the second high-profile absence for the international games in August. On Monday, the DBB had already announced that Andreas Obst’s availability was uncertain due to back problems. The three-point specialist is currently undergoing treatment in Munich.
It is currently unclear whether national team coach Mumbru is considering a late nomination. Numerically, however, it would not be necessary. The originally nominated roster comprises a total of 15 players. For next week’s World Cup qualifying games, at least, only twelve players are permitted. Without Hartenstein and Obst, there would be only one player left to cut.