Assem Marei


Assem Ahmed Marei is an Egyptian basketball player, who lastly played for Brose Bamberg of the Basketball Bundesliga.
Marei first played for Egyptian side Zamalek SC, before being recognized by other leagues at the FIBA U-19 world Championship. Assem averaged 3rd most points per game, most steals per game, and 2nd most rebounds in the tournament right after Jonas Valančiūnas. Marei had plenty of offers in other leagues, but eventually chose to play for NCAA Division 2 side Minnesota State University Mavericks for a scholarship at the Minnesota State University.

Early life

Marei was born on June 16, 1992 from parents who were both former basketball players at Zamalek SC. His father, Ahmed Marei, who played pivot as well, is considered a legend for basketball fans in Egypt, he competed for the Egyptian Olympic team at the Los Angeles Games in 1984 and averaged 2.3 point per game.
Marei started playing basketball at the age of 8 after his father encouraged both him and his brother to play for the sport he thrived for before retiring for the same club he played for throughout his entire career. Marei made an impact through every age-leveled team he played for, coaches across the league recognized him as a player with great potential who had a bright future ahead of him. Marei joined the national team at the age of 16.

Professional career

Zamalek SC (2010–2011)

Marei played for his home club Zamalek until 2011, when he left for the Minnesota State University Mankato Mavericks. During his time at the club he was known to be the best pivot on the team and one of the best in the country, his impact with the team got the club back in competition for the league title with league leaders Al Ittihad, Gezira, Sporting, and Zamalek's archrivals, Al Ahly.

Šiauliai (2015–2016)

In September 2015, Marei signed with BC Šiauliai of the Lithuanian LKL.

Medi Bayreuth (2016 - 2018)

On June 17, 2016, Marei signed with Medi Bayreuth which play in BBL

Pınar Karşıyaka

On July 19, 2018, Marei has signed with Pınar Karşıyaka of the Turkish Basketball Super League.

Bamberg

On July 21, 2019, Marei signed a two-year contract with Brose Bamberg.

International career

Marei played at the AfroBasket 2011, 2013 and 2015 with Egypt.
Marei led the AfroBasket 2013 in rebounding, averaging 11.6 per game. He was also named to the AfroBasket All-Tournament Team.

Honours

;Egypt
;* AfroBasket All-Tournament Team: 2013
;* Rebound Leader in 2013 Afrobasket
;* Steal leader in 2011 U-19 World championship
NSIC