Dennis Schroder has cemented his place as one of the greatest players Germany has ever produced, but the veteran guard admits he feels hell never be embraced like Dirk Nowitzki.
The current German national team captain reflected on his path compared to the countrys most iconic basketball figure, in an interview with Stern.
When I was 14, I sat in front of the TV watching Dirk Nowitzki carry the flag at the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, Schroder said. Back then I thought: how cool, theres no greater honor.
Now 31 years old, Schroder says the reality is different for him.
Its a great honor, but for me it will never be the same as for Dirk, he explained. I will never receive the same love in this country, because I am dark-skinned.
Schroders words cut deep, especially considering everything he has accomplished on the international stage.
Last summer, he captained Germany to a historic FIBA World Cup championship, earning tournament MVP honors along the way.
With EuroBasket on the horizon, Schroder didnt hesitate when asked about the national teams ambitions.
Were going to win the title, he said. If I werent convinced of that, I wouldnt play the tournament and would rather spend my time in Braunschweig.
Schroder has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, and his comments highlight the complexities of being a trailblazer in German basketball.
While Nowitzki remains the gold standard, Schroder continues to write his own legacy, one built on belief, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to winning.
Schroders had a lengthy NBA career that included stints with the Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Toronto Raptors, but hasnt yet been able to secure a championship in his 12 seasons in the league.
READ MORE: Draymond Green Fires Back at Alperen Sengun
