There has been a questionmark on Germany's and Dallas Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki since his injury last week. But Thursday night the German coach Henrik Dettmann gave comforting news: "Dirk is playing. He is not yet 100 procent, but he is okay."

The first game of Euro 2003 will include its biggest star. When Germany face Israel, Nowitzki will be the team's key player. But coach Dettmann faces other injury worries. The Malaga forward Adeola Okulaja has an ankle problem. "We will se if Okulaja can play. It is an important game", said the German coach.

Both teams have adjusted to Norrköping. "I know Sweden is a hockey country, but I think the arena is fine", Dettmann said.