On Monday, he said goodbye to everyone at the office — because a new adventure is about to begin: FCBB youngster Ivan Kharchenkov will not be playing for Bayern Basketball next season. The 18-year-old guard is heading to the U.S. for at least one year to play college basketball. After winning the German U19 championship, the Munich native also helped the pro team capture the BBL title.
"You've all become family to me"
Kharchenkov first wore the Bayern jersey at the age of twelve and went through every youth level at FCBB — often as the youngest on the team. Last season, he was the top scorer of the second team (22.5 PPG); this season, he became a regular part of the pro squad's rotation. In Game 4 of the playoff finals against Ulm (67:53), Kharchenkov made a key impact in turning the series around, contributing seven points and high energy off the bench.
Over the course of the BBL season, Kharchenkov averaged twelve minutes on the court and 5.2 points per game. In mid-November 2022, he made history as the youngest player — and scorer — in Bundesliga history at just 16 years, one month, and 30 days. At the time, he was also the first basketball player ever to live at the FC Bayern Campus boarding school.
"It was a very difficult decision for me to leave my home, because this is where I grew up," says Ivan Kharchenkov. He adds: "I always felt truly valued on my journey all the way into the pro team. I want to thank everyone who supported me along the way — starting with the coaches, the assistants, individual and athletic trainers, and of course the physios and doctors. I also want to thank everyone in the office and on the campus. And last but not least, my teammates and especially the fans — you’ve all become family to me. That’s why I know I’ll always be able to come back here — because this is my family, the Bayern family."
FC Bayern Basketball wishes Ivan all the best for his next chapter and everyone in Munich will be following his journey closely — already looking forward to seeing him again one day.