Würzburg Baskets tap Sam Griffin as new top player
BBL club Fitness First Würzburg unveiled Sam Griffin on Tuesday – a 1.90 m American who, according to sports director Kreso Loncar, will immediately take over the role vacated by Davion Mintz last season. The signing is the first major boost of the campaign and adds depth to the roster.
Who is Sam Griffin?
Griffin arrives from Turkey’s top league, where he posted 12.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists over 28 games. His style blends powerful post moves with a solid 38 % three‑point shooting. In Würzburg he is expected to pressure defenses in pick‑and‑rolls with Calvin Wishart and Max Jones while also scoring in the paint.
Why the move matters for the Baskets
Last year the Baskets struggled after Davion Mintz’s departure, leaving a gap inside. Griffin brings not only size but also ball‑handling that enables fast‑break points. Coach Johannes Strasser notes that Griffin will greatly expand the offensive options in the third quarter when the team pushes for the playoffs.
How Griffin fits into the squad
Since arriving, Griffin has trained intensively with Max Jones, the new guard, and returning Calvin Wishart. In scrimmages he already displayed good chemistry, especially in pick‑and‑rolls against Milan Gurović’s defense. The club plans to slot Griffin into the starting lineup for the next home game against Medi Bayreuth.
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Sam Griffin | Forward |
| Max Jones | Guard |
| Calvin Wishart | Guard |
| Davion Mintz | Forward |
The BBL schedule gives the Baskets at least three home games in the coming weeks where Griffin can showcase his impact. Fans hope the new forward will not only score but also pull down crucial rebounds and blocks in tight moments.
What’s next?
Upcoming practices will focus on defensive rebounding and transition play. Griffin is expected to be fully integrated by the next season break, allowing the Baskets to enter the second half of the season with a strong interior presence and a solid playoff push. The club’s management remains confident the transfer lifts the team to a higher level.