Kirchheim 73-98 EnBW Ludwigsburg — EnBW Ludwigsburg powered past Kirchheim 98-73 in the German Basketball Cup on September 13, 2026. A dominant first half and a balanced offensive attack sent the higher-tier side into the next round with little trouble.

Match Overview

The German Basketball Cup regularly produces matchups between top-flight clubs and ambitious lower-division teams, and this one followed the expected script. EnBW Ludwigsburg came out with intensity on defense, moved the ball unselfishly, and never allowed Kirchheim to settle into a comfortable half-court rhythm. The visitors led from the opening minutes and steadily stretched the margin.

Kirchheim competed hard, especially on the offensive glass, but the gap in depth and execution was clear. Every time the home side threatened a run, Ludwigsburg answered with a quick burst of scoring.

How the Game Unfolded

• First quarter: EnBW Ludwigsburg 27-18
• Second quarter: EnBW Ludwigsburg 24-17 (half-time: EnBW Ludwigsburg 51-35)
• Third quarter: EnBW Ludwigsburg 23-20 (end of third: EnBW Ludwigsburg 74-55)
• Fourth quarter: EnBW Ludwigsburg 24-18 (final: EnBW Ludwigsburg 98-73)

Ludwigsburg’s first-quarter run set the tone. The visitors pushed the pace after defensive rebounds, found open shooters in transition, and forced Kirchheim into early foul trouble. By halftime, the lead had reached 16 points, and the second half became a matter of maintaining discipline and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Key Moments

Kirchheim’s best stretch came early in the third quarter, when a pair of three-pointers cut the deficit to 13. But Ludwigsburg responded immediately with an 8-0 run, capped by a corner three, to restore control. That sequence effectively ended any hope of a comeback and allowed the coaching staff to rotate the bench more freely down the stretch.

Standout Performers

EnBW Ludwigsburg’s backcourt dictated the game. The guards combined for efficient shooting, low turnovers, and constant pressure on Kirchheim’s ball handlers. The frontcourt also controlled the paint, finishing through contact and limiting second-chance opportunities. For Kirchheim, the effort was led by its wings, who attacked the rim and kept the scoreboard moving even as the gap widened.

Cup Implications

The win moves EnBW Ludwigsburg into the next stage of the German Basketball Cup, where the competition will only get tougher. For Kirchheim, the result is a learning experience against a higher-level opponent, but the club can take pride in competing for long stretches against a Bundesliga-caliber roster.