The Science City Jena basketball team has filled the final spot on their Bundesliga roster with the signing of guard Jack Pagenkopf. Pagenkopf joins the BBL newcomer from Botewgrad, the current leader in the Bulgarian NBL.

Versatile Addition for Jena

The 1.90-meter (6’3”) American signed a contract through the finish of the season and will wear jersey number eleven. He most recently played for BC Balkan, completing his last competitive game with the NBL’s top team.

Pagenkopf brings experience in the German ProA league, having played for Ehingen (2020/2021) and Nürnberg (2024/2025). He averaged 12.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists during his time with Nürnberg.

Coach Harmsen Praises Recent Signing

“I’m looking forward to the shared challenge in the BBL with Science City. After my arrival on Wednesday, I want to integrate quickly so that I can support the boys as best as I can. For us it’s about collecting as many wins as possible. That’s why I came to Jena,”

Jack Pagenkopf

Science City Jena coach Björn Harmsen expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, highlighting Pagenkopf’s qualities.

“We were always looking for a development player to gain more depth. We grasp Jack’s qualities from the ProA. He trains intensively, plays aggressively and defends physically. He is a good guy and has exactly the qualities we need. It’s nice that it worked out and we had the patience.”

Björn Harmsen

Looking Ahead to Vechta

It remains to be seen if Pagenkopf will be available for Friday evening’s game against Rasta Vechta (8 p.m. Tip-off). Harmsen emphasized the importance of integrating the new player into the team.

“Now it’s about bringing the team together and using the training for integration. That will capture a few days. But I’m positive that we have the squad for the remaining games to stay in class.”

Björn Harmsen

Pagenkopf has prior experience against Vechta, having faced them twice while playing for BC Balkan in autumn 2025 during qualifying for the Europe Cup.

FAQ

• Who is Jack Pagenkopf? A 1.90m guard who most recently played for Botewgrad in Bulgaria and has experience in the German ProA league.
• What position does Jack Pagenkopf play? He is a versatile guard.
• When did Jack Pagenkopf sign with Science City Jena? He signed a contract through the end of the season on March 5, 2026.