It’s not just Dirk Nowitzki who has confidence in Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner after the European Championship title, also in the N.B.A to cause a sensation. But what is possible with their teams?
A little over a month ago, Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner stood side by side as they made history with the German national basketball team. After the World Cup title, they were also crowned European champions, for both players these were the greatest successes of their careers. The German duo probably wouldn’t mind if a pretty important title were added here in June. Then the new NBA season ends, which begins on Wednesday night (October 22nd, 2025).
Franz Wagner is one of the 15 best points collectors
Comparing the successes probably makes little sense, but actually the greatest thing for a basketball player is to win the NBA title – and neither has achieved that yet. But they both play on teams where that could be possible. There are teams where it is more likely, but with the title gene that Wagner and Schröder clearly have in them – why not?
Wagner goes with them Orlando Magic in its fifth season. After being drafted eighth overall in 2021, he has improved every year. With 24.2 points per game, he was among the top 15 in the best basketball league in the world last season. At rebounds (5,7), Assists (4,7) and Steals (1.3) he also achieved his personal best results. Hopes also rest on Wagner in the new season – and he has a team around him that he doesn’t have to carry alone.
Orlando Magic’s Franz Wagner in action
Moritz Wagner declares the NBA title as his goal
The injury problems have been overcome and with Wendell Carter Jr. is from the Chicago Bulls another promising one center who should help the Magic under the basket. Moritz Wagner will also soon be back in action after his knee injury – and has already formulated big goals. “It’s by far the most talented team we’ve ever had here. The pressure is great, the time has come. We want to win the championship, that’s what we’re training for”said the older of the Wagner brothers.
Mo Wagner is known for being a bit more courageous verbally, while Franz Wagner is mainly on the Court lets actions speak for themselves. But for his standards, the 24-year-old is also starting the new season very briskly. “It’s time to break new ground. Not just for this group, but for the entire club. We have high hopes and expectations for this season”said Wagner.
Nowitzki raves about Wagner and has a lot of confidence in Orlando
Dirk Nowitzki, the best German basketball player in history, also has high hopes for his compatriot. “We all know that he is a great all-rounder. He has the ability to get to the basket, he can defend everyone, he can do everything switchcan front Pick and roll to play is a good passer. He has a great repertoire.”said the former NBA star Dallas Maverickswho was the only German to win the NBA title in 2011.
And the 47-year-old also trusts Wagner’s team run to. “I hope they make it into the top four and then have a home advantage in the first round. That would be perfect for the team. Cleveland will probably be the favorite in the East, but there’s a lot in it.”said Nowitzki.
Will Schröder stay in Sacramento permanently?
The basketball legend also has Schröder’s new club on the list: “Sacramento can be dangerous, they have good players. I hope that Dennis plays a good year and that they maybe even get into the Playoffs come, that would be great for them.” After his transfer odyssey over the past two seasons, in which he played for three different teams, he has now spent three years with Sacramento Kings signed, earned $45 million during that time.
Sacramento’s Dennis Schröder in action
Nowitzki is a fan of Schröder, whom he calls “absolutely Hall of Famer“ and had already announced as MVP in the run-up to the European Championships. That’s how it happened. In the NBA, the 32-year-old has never become more than a “Role players” of his teams. As DBB captain, he not only showed how many in the summer leader-Qualities are in him. And how much basketball class.
Schröder is surrounded by strong players at the Kings
He could now show that in an exciting team. With Zach Lavine and DeMar DeRozan, the Kings have two absolute top scorers on the team. Domantas Sabonis is that double doubleNBA machine. Keegan Murray and Malik Monk have the skills to take games. And now Russell Westbrook, a veteran and old Schröder acquaintance, also came along Oklahoma City Thunder-times, who is capable of anything when in top form.
“Of course we want to reach the playoffs”said Schröder, knowing the quality that is in Sacramento’s squad. Before the start of the regular season, he himself played in the preparatory game against Los Angeles Lakers caused a sensation with 25 points. If Schröder can maintain his form, he might be able to surprise with Sacramento. Franz Wagner clearly has better chances of winning the title. However, it could be the NBA season of both European champion heroes.