Franz Wagner Poised for Return as NBA Heads to Berlin
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A historic NBA regular season game is set to take place in Germany, and the outlook for Franz Wagner’s participation is increasingly positive. The Orlando Magic star indicated he feels prepared to return to the court for Thursday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies (8 p.m. local time, available on Amazon Prime), marking the league’s first-ever regular season contest played on German soil – and in the Wagner brothers’ hometown.
Wagner’s Recovery and Anticipated Return
Wagner has been sidelined since December due to a sprained left ankle. However, recent training sessions suggest a swift return to form. “I am very well. I had a good training session and I plan to play tomorrow,” Wagner stated prior to the game. He participated in throwing exercises with teammates during Wednesday’s practice, signaling significant progress in his rehabilitation.
Cautious Optimism from the Coaching Staff
While Wagner expressed confidence, his coach, Jamahl Mosley, adopted a more measured tone. “He’s made a great impression in the last few days. He did some contact drills and was with the group,” Mosley noted. The coaching staff will continue to monitor Wagner’s response to training over the next 48 hours to assess his readiness.
Mosley acknowledged the significance of the game for Wagner, stating, “That is something that we definitely take into account in our considerations.” However, he emphasized the importance of a long-term perspective, adding, “On the other hand, it’s also about making sure that we can have Franz for the long term, not rushing into anything and making sure that his body is OK.”
Wagner Brothers to Compete on Home Soil
Adding to the excitement, Moritz Wagner is also expected to feature in the game, alongside fellow German national team player Tristan da Silva. Moritz Wagner recently made his own comeback on Sunday, following a hiatus of over a year due to a torn cruciate ligament.
This game represents a momentous occasion for German basketball, showcasing the nation’s growing presence on the global stage. The return of both Wagner brothers will undoubtedly amplify the enthusiasm surrounding this landmark event.
