Arvid Kramer, former NBA player and Telekom Baskets legend, dies

Arvid Kramer, a former NBA player and influential figure for the German basketball club Telekom Baskets Bonn, has passed away at the age of 70. He died unexpectedly in the United States on October 22, reportedly due to sepsis, shortly after celebrating his 70th birthday.

Kramer’s career spanned several high-level leagues, beginning with the Denver Nuggets in 1980. He also played for teams including Antonini Siena in Italy, Bayer Giants Leverkusen, and Godesberger TV. He played a pivotal role in the development of basketball in Bonn, helping the club ascend from the second division to the Bundesliga.

Following his playing career, Kramer served as a sports director and manager, becoming a key architect of the club’s early success and identity. Telekom Baskets Bonn described him as a pioneer and a legend whose contributions laid the foundation for the club’s professional status.