BAMBERG (Olympics) – Beijing Games-bound Germany won their friendly over Finland in Bamberg on Thursday 78-67.

But the contest was played following the disturbing revelation from Germany national team star Ademola Okulaja that he had undergone a back operation and is concerned about a possible tumor.

Okulaja, whose health prevented him from playing for his country this summer, said in a statement: "The surgery went well and I am now in the middle of my rehab phase.

"The possible cause for the fracture of the vertebrae might have been a tumor.

“Further tests to clarify the exact nature of this disease are undergoing. But at this time, I will not play in the 2008-09 season."

Okulaja has been a vital player for Germany and Bauermann over the years.

"It is very brave to go public with this," Bauermann said on the www.sport1.de website.

"We are all in great distress."

Germany, who beat Puerto Rico on the last day of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament to reach the Beijing Games, built a 35-28 lead by half-time and extended that to 59-44 by the end of the third quarter.

The lead grew to 67-47 early in the fourth quarter before Germany settled for an 11-point triumph.

Chris Kaman led Germany with 13 points while Dirk Nowitzki finished with 11.

FIBA