Sometimes, you have to let go of things, no matter how dear they are to your heart, to make room for new opportunities.
That’s why I’m writing these first lines with a tearful and a joyful eye. This is my third NBA season sharing the beautiful details of basketball with you from my perspective as Flight Girl.
It all started in the streets of Toronto in 2021. While being out for a walk, I stumbled across a streetball court. A game was already going on. Always up for a pickup game, I found myself “calling next” just minutes later.
After a while and countless attempts by the guys to pronounce my name correctly, I heard someone shout for the first time: “Flight Girl.” What can I say? As someone who believes MJ is the GOAT, you can imagine how much I loved it.
That this nickname would one day stand for so much more? I couldn’t have dreamed it, not even in my wildest dreams.
From that moment, a year flew by until I was offered the chance to write my own column for a print basketball magazine. Wow, I was speechless—what an honor! I quickly knew what I wanted to name my column: “Flight Girl”
And here we go—Flight Girl is taking the next step! From print, with a monthly circulation, I now get to share the beautiful world of the NBA with you as often as I want, right here.
And how could an NBA story start any better than with the fact that the main characters include four Germans?
It’s crazy to see how far we’ve come in Germany to make something like this possible. From Detlef Schrempf to Dirk Nowitzki to eight German players currently in the NBA.
As I write these lines, I’m sitting in a café in Brooklyn with the perfect view of the Brooklyn Bridge. I arrived two days ago and covered the Brooklyn Nets vs. Orlando Magic game yesterday. But first, let me rewind a bit—for the bigger picture.
Photo: Aurelia Rieke
Just three weeks ago, I was in Dallas for three Mavs games, including one against the Orlando Magic.
This team is just so much fun to watch. I knew that on my next trip, I had to include the Orlando Magic again, especially since I’d started something that I needed to see through to the end.
November 4th, Mavs vs. Magic.
Before the game, I had the chance to talk to Tristan in the locker room. Don’t ask me why, but I absolutely love this tradition that’s becoming more common—the rookies getting these cheesy kids’ backpacks. So, I asked Tristan if he had received one, and he said no, looking a bit disappointed. I knew I had to step in. Luckily, I had the chance to talk to Franz and Moritz post-game. I told them that Tristan would really like a rookie backpack. A little surprised but laughing, they took note of it.
Now, I had to know if my plan had worked. And what can I say? I got spoiled before even arriving in Brooklyn to ask about it—thanks to an amazing photo I found on social media. A quick shoutout to Adam Pantozzi, NBA LA Lakers Photographer, who posted the photo in his story: Tristan with his adorable pink unicorn backpack. Great picture. I couldn’t wait to find out who had bought the backpack.
And here we go—not only did my curiosity get satisfied yesterday, but I also got to celebrate two premieres.
But first things first: I have to give a big thank you to Len Werle for giving me the platform to seamlessly transition my “Flight Girl” column and for making it possible for me to receive my first accreditation through OpenCourt – Basketball yesterday. Thank you so much for your trust!
Additionally, about a week ago, I was asked to do a live broadcast from the Barclays Center for Ran Sport on ProSieben MAXX during their JumpRan show. Big thanks to Matthias Killing for coming up with the idea! I can’t even put into words how precious the past few weeks have been. Experiencing so much trust and appreciation has been incredible.
As a result, preparing for the Nets vs. Magic game felt completely different. The big question was: How do I get ready for a live TV appearance? What questions might come up? Will I get enough inside info beforehand to share something exciting with the audience? Can I even do this?
Until now, I could always hide behind my written words, checking and revising everything. But now, knowing that my spoken words would be out there without any take-backs … let me tell you: I was nervous, but in an excited way.
And what can I say? It was so much fun!
What’s better than talking about the sport that fills my heart with so much joy and is my daily companion?
Thank you to the entire team behind the show for making all of this possible. You made me feel like part of the team right away.
Screenshot: Aurelia Rieke/ProSiebenMaxx
Once the two live broadcasts were done, I could fully focus on my locker room interviews and finally get all the details about the backpack. Guys, it was Franz who went out and bought the backpack. How cool is that? I can’t even describe how happy that made me.
I also checked in with Tristan, who confirmed that he was really happy with it. Let me tell you: Of all the stories I’ve shared here so far, this one is my favorite. Somehow, it makes my inner child so happy. I also asked Tristan what he thought was the reason he has adapted so quickly to his new roles in his rookie year. Suddenly, he’s in the starting five line up because Paolo is out with an injury, and then, with Wendell Carter Jr. back, he’s coming off the bench again—but with more minutes than he had as a bench player earlier.
His take? His four years in college prepared him really well. It’s always a hot topic—what’s better: going pro as early as possible or gaining experience in college first? What do you think? I’m always torn on this. But I’m definitely a Da Silva believer and think he has a long, successful NBA career ahead of him.
I also talked to Dennis and Franz about how strong the drive is to win when they play against each other.
I was a bit surprised when both said that, while they obviously want to win these games, they can also be happy for the other if they’re on the losing side. It just shows again what amazing players we have—acknowledging when someone else had the better day is part of being great.
Talking to Dennis is always great. I don’t know anyone else who speaks so honestly, really listens, and gives genuine answers. That kind of authenticity has become so rare and precious these days.
It’s incredible to witness how, in his 11th year, he’s delivering his best season yet, improving even more, with an even cleaner shot and no signs of slowing down.
Who else can do that? That’s why I’m calling on all the Germans who’ve been saying, “That’s FIBA Dennis, and that’s NBA Dennis,” to drop that narrative. There’s only one Dennis, and he puts his heart and soul into the game—whether it’s on a FIBA court or an NBA court. Tomorrow, it’s Knicks vs. Magic. My first time at MSG. Stay tuned for what’s next.
Until then, your Flight Girl.
