Moritz and Franz Wagner, two German basketball brothers, began a new season in the NBA with different paths. Moritz joined the Brooklyn Nets after his contract with the Orlando Magic was not renewed, while Franz remains with Orlando. In recent years, the two brothers have achieved significant success with the German national team, winning the world championship in 2023.
Shared and Separate Experiences
In 2024, a four-part television documentary aired about the two brothers, recounting their basketball history and close relationship. Moritz, as a successful podcaster, often invites his brother to his show. Both brothers have around 300,000 followers on Instagram and are actively present on social media.
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Moritz announced to his audience that he has joined the Brooklyn Nets in New York, which feels like a home to him in America. He said, "I have spent a lot of time in New York, and it feels somewhat like my home in America." He believes that joining the Nets is a great opportunity, and he and his brother feel happy and surprised about it.
New Challenges for Franz Wagner
Franz Wagner remains with the Orlando Magic and, as one of the two stars of the team, aims for more success with a big contract until 2030. Along with his teammate, Paolo Banchero, he hopes the Magic can advance past the first round of the playoffs. With the hiring of Shawn Sweeney as the new head coach, the Magic are optimistic about improving their game strategy.
Franz will now act as a point guard and will have a larger role in directing the game. In an interview, he said, "We want to play hard and play as a fast-paced team and enjoy this experience."
With the end of the Wagner brothers' time in Orlando, German basketball fans must adapt to the new changes. While many Germans became fans of the Dallas Mavericks during Dirk Nowitzki's era, interest in Orlando and Brooklyn may now increase.
In the 2026/27 season, eight German players have contracts in the NBA. Hartenstein, who became an NBA champion with the Thunder in 2025, is looking to repeat that success. Meanwhile, Hockpertie, who plays in Philadelphia, will be sidelined due to injury.
Dennis Schröder, captain of the German national team and an experienced player, has joined the Charlotte Hornets, which may become the new favorite team of Germany. He is working to help two young players, Hannes Steinbach and Christian Anderson Jr., during the recovery season.
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