The world champions were supposed to present themselves in full force to the home basketball fans for the first time in front of 18,000 spectators. But for surprising reasons, one trio had to pull out.
The German national basketball team will not be able to present its best team to its own fans at the start of the Olympic preparations as hoped. NBA pros Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner and Daniel Theis will not be part of the world champions’ match against Olympic host France in Cologne, as the German Basketball Association (DBB) announced shortly before the start of the game.
The reason is the contractual situation of the three professionals who have not yet been able to sign a new contract in the NBA. This is causing problems with insurance. A similar case occurred before the 2021 Olympics with today’s captain Dennis Schröder, who consequently missed the tournament in Tokyo.
According to consistent media reports, the Wagner brothers have already agreed to an extension with the Orlando Magic, but are only allowed to sign the papers ready for signature at a certain point in time. After signing, the duo will be at the return match in Montpellier on Monday (9 p.m.). It is unclear whether Theis will be able to play then.
Franz Wagner becomes top earner
Franz Wagner, in particular, is becoming one of the top earners among German professional athletes with his deal. According to ESPN and “The Athletic”, the younger of the two Wagner brothers is set to extend his contract for five years until 2030 and receive a sum of at least 224 million dollars (around 206 million euros).
In the best case scenario, the deal could bring the 22-year-old up to 270 million dollars (about 249 million euros). Wagner could earn more money with one contract than NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki did in his 21-year career in the best basketball league in the world.
Source: Stern
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