Dragons Rhöndorf Face Uphill Battle Against Itzehoe Eagles in Crucial Pro B Matchup
Lousy Honnef, Germany – The Dragons Rhöndorf are facing a critical juncture in their season as they prepare to host the Itzehoe Eagles on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. In the DragonDome. After a challenging six-game losing streak, the team finds itself in a precarious position within the Pro B league standings, battling to avoid relegation. The upcoming match against the third-placed Eagles represents a significant test of resilience and a vital opportunity to climb out of the drop zone. The situation is undeniably difficult, but according to head coach Max Becker, far from hopeless.
The Dragons’ current predicament is complicated by the league’s tie-breaking procedures. While Rhöndorf is currently level on points with several other teams vying to stay in the league, direct comparisons against Iserlohn and Stahnsdorf have left them at a disadvantage. A complex “three-way comparison” system dictates that if Rhöndorf finishes with the same number of points as Iserlohn and Stahnsdorf, the team with the most wins overall will avoid relegation. This adds another layer of pressure to each remaining game, making every victory crucial. A win against Itzehoe would be a significant step towards securing their Pro B status, but the Dragons will also need favorable results from other matches on the 22nd matchday to fully escape the relegation battle.
The Eagles present a formidable challenge. Currently holding the third position in the league table, Itzehoe boasts a well-rounded roster led by a trio of experienced and high-scoring players. The team’s offensive prowess is spearheaded by American forward Walter J. McBride, 28, who averages 18.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Supporting McBride are shooting guard Lucien Schmikale, 28, contributing 14.9 points per game, and power forward Finn Fleute, 26, who averages an impressive 16.9 points and 9.7 rebounds. The Eagles also feature solid role players like Dutch point guard Sven Cikara (averaging 10.8 points and 5.0 assists) and the physically imposing Toni Nickel, who stands at 140 kilos and contributes 10.1 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Young guards Sydnee Bijlsma, 21, and Christopher Herget, 21, add further depth to the Itzehoe squad.
First Leg Showed Areas for Improvement
The Dragons experienced firsthand the Eagles’ strength in the first leg of the season, suffering an 85-74 defeat. According to reports, a key factor in that loss was Itzehoe’s effective zone defense, which Rhöndorf struggled to break down with perimeter shooting. The Dragons also underperformed at the free-throw line, missing twelve crucial points. Addressing these weaknesses will be paramount for Rhöndorf as they prepare for the rematch. Improving shooting percentages, particularly from the free-throw line, is seen as a matter of regaining confidence, according to coach Becker.
The team’s head coach, Max Becker, acknowledges the difficulty of the task ahead, noting that the Dragons have already faced all six of the league’s top teams. Despite this challenging schedule, Becker remains optimistic, believing that his team has the potential to secure the necessary wins to stay in the league. He emphasized the importance of the final four games against teams considered to be on a similar level, viewing them as crucial opportunities to demonstrate mental fortitude and teamwork. Becker stated he believes three wins in the remaining five games will be sufficient to ensure their Pro B status.
Analyzing the Competition and Seeking Support
When comparing Itzehoe’s strength to that of Bernau, a team Rhöndorf recently competed with closely for over 35 minutes, Becker believes the two teams are similarly matched. He expressed confidence in his team’s ability to potentially surprise their opponents. The coach also acknowledged the experience and skill of Itzehoe’s starting five, recognizing them as a significant threat and emphasizing the need for careful preparation to limit their impact.
Addressing the team’s recent shooting struggles, Becker explained that the coaching staff is working diligently to improve rhythm and accuracy. He outlined two potential strategies: either improving shooting percentages through focused practice or increasing the number of possessions to compensate for lower efficiency. He remains confident in the players’ ability to perform at a high level when they find their shooting touch.
Becker also underscored the vital role of the Dragons’ fans in providing support and encouragement, particularly during this critical period. He emphasized that the young team needs positive energy from the stands to withstand the mounting pressure and maintain their pride in representing the club. The coach believes that a strong connection with the fans will be instrumental in securing a positive outcome for the season.
The game against Itzehoe Eagles is scheduled for Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. At the DragonDome (Menzenberger Str. 70, Bad Honnef). Fans can watch the game via live stream on Sporteurope.TV, starting at 6:45 p.m., or follow the action through a live ticker on the BARMER 2.Basketball Bundesliga homepage. A live ticker will be available on the 2. Basketball Bundesliga website.
Key Takeaways
- The Dragons Rhöndorf are in a relegation battle in the Pro B league, facing a crucial game against the Itzehoe Eagles.
- Itzehoe boasts a strong roster led by Walter J. McBride, Lucien Schmikale, and Finn Fleute.
- Rhöndorf needs to improve their shooting, particularly from the free-throw line, and effectively counter Itzehoe’s zone defense.
- Head coach Max Becker emphasizes the importance of mental strength, teamwork, and fan support.
The Dragons’ next challenge will undoubtedly test their resolve. The outcome of Saturday’s game, combined with results from other Pro B matchups, will significantly impact their chances of remaining in the league. Fans and followers of the team can stay updated on the latest developments and standings on the BARMER 2.Basketball Bundesliga website. We encourage you to share your thoughts and predictions for the game in the comments below.
