Frankfurt, Germany – Former University of Illinois forward Marcus Domask has signed a contract with Fraport Skyliners, a professional basketball club based in Frankfurt, Germany, competing in the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL), Germany’s top-tier league. The move comes after a period with the Chicago Bulls’ developmental team, the Windy City Bulls and marks a significant step in the American player’s professional career.
Domask’s journey to the BBL began after going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. He initially signed with the Chicago Bulls in , participating in their Summer League program before joining the Windy City Bulls in . During his time with the G League affiliate, Domask averaged 9.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, demonstrating a versatile skillset reminiscent of his collegiate performance at Illinois.
The Fraport Skyliners, currently facing challenges in the BBL standings, are hoping Domask can provide an immediate boost. As of , the team held a record of 4-12, placing them 16th out of 17 teams in the league. The BBL operates a relegation system, where the bottom two teams are demoted to a lower tier, adding urgency to the Skyliners’ need for improved performance.
Domask’s arrival in Frankfurt follows a successful run with the University of Illinois Fighting Illini, where he averaged 15.9 points, five rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game during the season. He played a key role, alongside Terrence Shannon Jr., in leading the Illini to an Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament before their defeat by the University of Connecticut, the eventual national champion.
The contract signed with the Skyliners represents a shift in Domask’s career trajectory. The deal allows him to compete in a highly regarded European league, known for its competitive nature and demanding style of play. The Basketball Bundesliga is often compared to soccer’s Premier League in its structure, with a strong emphasis on avoiding relegation.
Domask announced his move to Germany via his social media account on , expressing gratitude to his former teams and fans. He is expected to make his debut with the Fraport Skyliners on , in a game against Göttingen, the only Bundesliga team currently with a worse record than the Skyliners.
The signing of Domask highlights the increasingly global nature of professional basketball. Players are frequently moving between the NBA, its G League affiliate teams, and international leagues, seeking opportunities to develop their skills and advance their careers. The Exhibit 10 contract initially offered by the Chicago Bulls, a common practice for NBA teams seeking depth, allows a franchise to convert a player on a non-guaranteed one-year minimum contract to a two-way contract, with a bonus of up to $50,000.
Domask’s skillset, described as a “do-it-all” guard, is expected to be valuable to the Skyliners. He is known for his ability to shoot three-pointers, create mid-range opportunities, finish at the rim, and facilitate for teammates – a versatile profile that mirrors his role at Illinois. The Skyliners will be relying on his immediate contribution to avoid relegation and improve their standing in the BBL.
The move also reflects the competitive landscape of European basketball, where teams are constantly seeking to bolster their rosters with talented players from around the world. The BBL, in particular, has become an attractive destination for American players looking to gain experience and showcase their abilities on an international stage.
While Domask’s initial contract with the Bulls was an Exhibit 10 deal, designed to provide depth and potential for development, his subsequent move to Germany demonstrates a willingness to pursue playing time and a more prominent role in a professional league. His success with the Skyliners will be closely watched, both by fans in Germany and by those following his career in the United States.
