Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein is making moves beyond the hardwood, joining the ownership group of German basketball powerhouse Ratiopharm Ulm. The 2023 German Bundesliga champions aren’t just a trophy-laden team—they’re a factory for NBA talent, boasting three draft picks already and two more projected as first-rounders in 2025.
So, why did Hartenstein dive into this venture? Simple: he sees the vision.
“I got involved because I was searching for a German team that I could be a part of—one that, if I were younger and trying to make the next level, would get me there,” Hartenstein told Marc Spears. “I feel like they do a great job of developing young talent and helping them advance in their careers.”
But it wasn’t just the team’s talent pipeline that caught his eye. Hartenstein was drawn to the unique balance Ratiopharm Ulm strikes between development and competition.
“The team is well-run, and even though they focus on helping players take the next step, they remain competitive. That mix was really exciting for me. And growing up, I always loved the fans they had.”
This move isn’t just a business play—it’s a statement. Hartenstein is showing he’s invested in the future of the game, using his platform to support the next wave of basketball stars. For a player who’s trending upward on the court, this ownership venture proves he’s thinking big—both on and off it.
