The Rising Heat Between Gießen 46ers and Phoenix Hagen: A Basketball Rivalry Forged in History
The basketball rivalry between Hagen and Gießen has evolved from a friendly connection to a heated contest, marked by incidents extending beyond the court. What began alongside the founding of the Basketball Bundesliga 60 years ago has seen twists of insolvency, shared fanbases, and now, escalating tensions.
From Shared Beginnings to Financial Struggles
Both SSV Hagen and MTV 1846 Gießen were inaugural teams in the Basketball Bundesliga in 1966. For years, they co-existed as top-tier teams until Hagen faced insolvency in 2003, leading to its exclusion from the league. Gießen managed to remain in the BBL, benefiting from another team’s financial difficulties. The 46ers continued in the BBL until 2013, while Hagen, rebranded as Phoenix, attempted a revival.
A Fanbase Divided: Moments of Unity and Discord
Early displays of camaraderie included a large contingent of Hagen fans traveling to support Gießen during a crucial relegation battle in 2004, with fans chanting “Hagen and the MTV.” However, the relationship wasn’t always smooth. In 2012, 400 Gießen fans journeyed to Hagen for a direct relegation showdown, a game Hagen won 72-85. Despite the loss, the atmosphere was described as a “basketball festival,” though not all Gießen supporters agreed.
Escalation of Tensions: From On-Court Battles to Off-Court Incidents
A memorable game in 2016 saw Gießen mount a significant comeback against Hagen, winning 90-83 after trailing by a large margin. More recently, in 2023, the rivalry took a darker turn when the 46ers’ fan bus was attacked by masked individuals, including juveniles, requiring police intervention with four patrol cars deployed.
Player Movement and Intensified Animosity
The rivalry has been further fueled by player transfers between the two teams. Players like David Bell, Larry Gordon, and Dominik Spohr have moved between Gießen and Hagen. Currently, Kyle Castlin plays for Gießen, while Bjarne Kraushaar and Tim Uhlemann represent Hagen. These transfers have led to instances of opposing fans directing taunts at former players, adding another layer of intensity to the matchups.
The Current Climate: Surveillance and Suspicion
Following the 2023 attack, the atmosphere between the fan groups remains tense. During a game in early 2025, Gießen fans were subjected to increased video surveillance in Hagen, leading to feelings of being monitored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the initial rivalry between Gießen and Hagen?
The rivalry began with their shared history as founding members of the Basketball Bundesliga and evolved through competitive matches and shared fan support.
What was the incident in 2023?
In October 2023, the fan bus of Gießen 46ers was attacked by masked individuals, resulting in police intervention.
Are there currently players who have played for both teams?
Yes, Kyle Castlin currently plays for Gießen, while Bjarne Kraushaar and Tim Uhlemann play for Hagen, having previously played for the opposing team.
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