Germany is poised to kick off EuroBasket 2025, and all eyes are on the electric duo of Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner. As the Sacramento Kings guard prepares for the first group-stage showdown against Montenegro on August 27, he has made it abundantly clear that he holds Wagner in the highest regard. In an exclusive interview, Schroder lauded Wagner’s remarkable influence on both ends of the court, especially during a dazzling stretch of the 2024-25 NBA season.
“He had a stretch where he scored 30 to 35 points and won 11 games,” Schroder declared. “So, this guy is built differently.” This statement encapsulates the awe that Schroder has for Wagner, who, despite facing injury setbacks, delivered a career year for the Orlando Magic. The 23-year-old forward averaged an impressive 24.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 46.3% from the field over 60 appearances.
Wagner’s resilience was on full display when he recovered from a torn oblique that sidelined him earlier in the season. When his teammate, Paolo Banchero, found himself out of the lineup for a significant 20-game stretch, Wagner seized the opportunity to elevate his performance. During that period, he averaged a staggering 26.1 points, six rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.8 steals while maintaining a shooting percentage of 45.7%. His stellar contributions were vital in keeping the Magic competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Schroder lamented the injury that may have cost Wagner an All-Star selection, stating, “He should have already become an All-Star this year but unfortunately got injured. He definitely would have made the All-NBA First Team.” This sentiment underscores not only Wagner’s immense potential but also the expectations that surround him as he steps onto the international stage.
As Germany looks to build on its monumental success at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where they clinched their first-ever gold medal, the synergy between Wagner and Schroder will be essential. Schroder, who was named tournament MVP during that historic run, emphasized that Wagner’s contributions extend far beyond statistics. “His gameplay is amazing, but his character is even better,” he noted. “He’s a good guy, a cool guy… down to earth, doesn’t think he’s better than anyone else.”
The partnership of Wagner and Schroder has been pivotal in Germany’s ascent in international basketball, and their focus is now directed towards EuroBasket, where they aim to solidify their newfound legacy. For the Orlando Magic, Wagner’s continued evolution as a scoring machine is crucial. With back-to-back playoff appearances under their belt and an exciting lineup featuring Banchero and newly acquired guard Desmond Bane, the Magic are looking to harness Wagner’s growth as they prepare for the 2025-26 season.
Germany’s opener against Montenegro is not just another game; it’s a critical moment where Wagner’s enhanced 3-point shooting and multifaceted skills could be the difference-makers. For Schroder, Wagner embodies a unique blend of elite athletic talent and an unpretentious demeanor, qualities that have already made him one of the most respected young stars in the basketball world. The stage is set for a thrilling EuroBasket journey, and with talents like Schroder and Wagner leading the charge, fans can expect nothing short of fireworks.
