STOCKHOLM (Sweden) - David Kramer delivered an unforgettable performance, but even a record-breaking night had a sour taste for Germany at the start of the November window of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers.
Germany's sharp shooter knocked down 8-of-11 three-pointers, made 6-of-8 two-pointers and 7-of-9 free throws to finish the game with 43 points in 32 minutes of work, also grabbing 6 rebounds and finishing with an efficiency rating of 41.
He set the new FIBA EuroBasket Qualifiers mark since the format of the competition switched to its current shape, eclipsing Iffe Lundberg's mark of 38 points for Denmark against Czechia in November 2020.
However, not even his 43 points were enough for the reigning world champions to steal a road win in Sweden. The hosts took the lead through Christopher Czerapowicz's free throws in the closing seconds, holding on to a 73-72 win as Dylan Osetkowski and Christian Sengfelder misfired on Germany's two attempts for the win.
Kramer's 43 are the second highest number of points scored by any German player for the national team, in any game, trailing only Dirk Nowitzki's 47-point output against Angola at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2006.
"It would have been better if we could have gotten the victory. But every time I get a chance to represent Germany it's a lot of fun and an honor. I just try to do my best," Kramer said after the game.
Sweden climbed to 2-1 in Group D, while Germany are down at 1-2, with no reason to panic yet. Coach Alex Mumbru and his men play host to Sweden on Monday, a two-point win would give them the tiebreaker.
FIBA