Alexandra Wilke is representing the Rutronik Stars Keltern in the highest league of Germany, and proudly donning the jersey for the national team. Her story is one of passion, grit, and the unbreakable bond of team spirit. From her early days playing in the streets of Berlin to representing Germany on the Olympic stage, Alexandra has become an inspiration to many young athletes. Photo: FIBA Basketball

A humble beginning

Alexandra's journey into the world of basketball began when she was just nine years old. Like many kids, her parents encouraged her and her siblings to stay active, but they were never concerned with which sport they pursued. Alexandra experimented with various sports, including track and field, dancing, and even judo. Yet, there was something about basketball that resonated deeply with her. “I started when I was, I think, I was nine years old,” she recalls, “My parents always wanted us kids to do some sports, but they didn't care which kind. So, I tried everything, but basketball was the most fun. It was the friends, the team spirit—it was just so different.”

The decision to focus on basketball came when Alexandra had to choose between her various extracurricular activities as school became more demanding. It was the camaraderie and joy of playing with a team that solidified her decision to commit fully to basketball.

The special magic of basketball: “It's like a family”

For Alexandra, basketball is more than just a game. It is a source of joy, teamwork, and lifelong friendships. When asked what makes the sport so special to her, she doesn't hesitate: “It's the team, for sure. Especially when I think about the national team and my teammates. It's become a family over the past couple of years, and it's just so much fun.” The concept of family extends beyond her immediate circle of teammates to her broader inspirations within the sport. As a young girl, access to women's basketball was limited, so she looked up to male athletes, particularly Kobe Bryant. “I always looked up to Kobe Bryant; he was my favorite player. Maybe because of the position he played, but now, I really look up to Leo Fibich as well. She's doing great in her first year in the WNBA.” Alexandra’s idols have shifted as her career has progressed, but her deep love for the game and its players remains unwavering.

From Berlin to the big league

Alexandra’s journey through the ranks of basketball was anything but easy. Born and raised in Berlin, she played her first game in the city, though she humorously admits she had no idea what was happening at the time. “I remember I could not score a basket, and I didn’t even know which hoop we were playing on. I was just running and chasing my opponents. But it was still fun.”

As her skills developed, she realized that to reach the next level, she needed to leave Berlin. At just 14, she moved to Chemnitz to attend a boarding school with a strong youth basketball program. This transition was challenging but necessary, as she explains, “The way to practices and school in Berlin was just too far. I got an invitation from the youth federation to attend a boarding school with a good basketball team, so I left home at 14 to pursue my dream.” At 16, Alexandra got her first taste of professional basketball, playing a few minutes in Germany’s top league. However, it wasn’t until she was 19, while playing for Marburg, that she felt she truly belonged on the court. “It was my first professional year. I had a role on the team, and I got minutes. It was a big step up from the second league, but it was a dream come true.”

The challenge of playing in the EuroCup: “A whole new level”

After her time in Marburg, Alexandra moved to Rutronik Stars Keltern, where she currently plays. The transition was not only a step up in terms of competition but also introduced her to the rigors of playing in the EuroCup, a prestigious European competition. “It was way different coming from Marburg to Keltern,” she admits. “In Keltern, we play in the EuroCup, and I remember my first game—it was like, oof, this is a different level. It’s way more physical, and way tougher.” But beyond the physical challenges, Alexandra quickly realized the difference in mentality. In Keltern, everyone was a professional. “It was so much more competitive because it’s everyone’s job. You have to perform to keep your job. It was a completely different environment than Marburg, where many players were still studying or going to school.”

Representing the national team of Germany

One of the most cherished aspects of Alexandra’s career is representing her country on the national stage. Having played for the national youth team since 2012, she speaks with pride and emotion about what it means to wear the German jersey. “Every time I put on the jersey and see 'Deutschland' or the flag, it’s special. Hearing your national anthem, knowing you're playing for your country, it’s an unforgettable feeling,” she says. “Every game is special because of that.” While Germany has yet to claim a major international title during her tenure, Alexandra remains optimistic. “We haven't won a gold medal yet, but every game is memorable because you’re playing for your country.”

The Olympic dream: “An experience beyond everything”

Perhaps the pinnacle of Alexandra's career so far was her participation in the Olympics. Competing on the world’s biggest stage was both surreal and exhilarating. Germany faced off against some of the strongest teams, including Belgium, Japan, and the USA, but Alexandra fondly recalls the moment they beat Belgium. “It was the best way to start the tournament. No one expected us to get out of the group, but we came out strong and beat Belgium, the European champions. It was incredible.” Describing the Olympic experience, Alexandra struggles to put the magic into words. “It’s like living in a different world. You’re surrounded by the best athletes in the world, seeing NBA and WNBA players at lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is indescribable. I remember our first game against Belgium, when we walked into the gym. It was so loud, and the colors were everywhere. Black, red, and yellow, but we didn’t even know if the fans were ours or Belgium’s! I got goosebumps just warming up. I still smile when I think about everything I’ve experienced,” she says. “Basketball has given me so much, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.”