At such young age Annika Soltau is already playing on the highest league of Germany. She has also plans to play basketball in the United States next year. This German international is getting stronger every game! Photo: FIBA Europe

1.  Let’s introduce yourself, who are you?

“My name is Annika Soltau, a German basketball player. I currently play for Eisvogel Freiburg, and last summer I played for the under 18 European Championship and the under 19 team during the World Cup. Next year I am going to Seattle to play for the Washington Huskies.”

2.  How did you start playing basketball?

“That was when I was nine years old. Before that I did sports like tennis and swimming. My mom was a professional basketball player and asked me if I wanted to do it, so I did it.”

3.  What kind of player are you?

“I am pretty tall, but I think I am a stretched power forward and I like to play outside and shoot. I try to use my length for finishing, and I also want to shoot whenever I am open.”

4.  How is it for play you to play on the highest league of Germany at such young age?

“I feel like it helps me so much to develop on and off the court. It is such a big different, because everything is so professional and we practice a lot. They have a good structure for us, and playing in Germany is a great experience. I got more physical and stronger.”

5. What are your expectations of this season.

“It is a bit difficult. Two years Freiburg won the championship, but last year wasn’t that good. A couple of players left, so it was harder for them. We want to reach the players, and from then see how far we can go.”

Photo: FIBA Europe

6.  How were you able to develop yourself?

“It is a lot of practice and a lot of work. My mom is my individual coach, and she is always in the gym. She is the best coach I ever practiced with. I always keep going, getting stronger every day.”

7.  What are your expectations of playing basketball in the United States?

“I feel like that it will be such a great experience! Basketball gets so much attention from the media, and I will try to develop myself even more. It will be an unforgettable time!”

8. Realizing a double-double per game with the under 18 team of Germany, how does that feel for you?

“It is an honor. We represent Germany very well, and we ended up on a good spot. I love playing for the national team!”