Dennis Schroder, recognized for his impressive international career with Germany and his extensive NBA experience, reflects candidly on the challenges he has faced due to his skin color. Known for winning the FIBA World Cup MVP and earning a spot on the All-Star Five at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Schroder has become a prominent figure in the global basketball community while confronting obstacles unique to his background.
During an interview with Stern, Schroder, who served as the captain and flag bearer of the German national team at the Paris Games, spoke about the deep pride he feels representing his country. However, he also expressed his awareness that, unlike NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki—who led Germany in the 2008 Beijing Olympics—he will never receive the same level of admiration in his homeland because of his darker skin tone.
Reflections on National Representation and Personal Challenges
Schroder’s journey began in his hometown of Braunschweig, where he was born to a German father and Gambian mother. His admiration for Nowitzki, a basketball icon in Germany, came early in life.
“When I was 14, I sat in front of the TV watching Dirk Nowitzki carry the flag at the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing. Back then I thought: how cool, there’s no greater honor,” Schroder said.
Despite the pride, Schroder admitted the reality of not sharing the same level of acceptance because of his skin color, highlighting ongoing issues of recognition and respect.
“It’s a great honor, but for me it will never be the same as for Dirk. I will never receive the same love in this country, because I am dark-skinned.”
Before being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2013, Schroder began his professional career in Germany between 2010 and 2013. His agent, Ademola Okulaja, a former player for the German national team, guided him early on.
Plans to Invest in German Basketball After NBA Career
After 12 seasons in the NBA and a move to the Sacramento Kings for the 2025-26 season—his 10th NBA team—Schroder plans to return to Germany to contribute off the court. He has expressed a strong desire to give back to his hometown and nurture upcoming talent through basketball initiatives.
“Braunschweig is my home, I’m needed here,” he said. “That’s why I bought the basketball club there, that’s why we’re planning academies, camps and schools for the youth there.
“Many professionals stay in the USA after their playing careers and enjoy their fame. But I belong in Germany.”
Upcoming Competitions and Continued Commitment to German Basketball
Despite his NBA commitments, Schroder remains dedicated to Team Germany. The national team has two remaining exhibition games against Spain before starting their EuroBasket campaign on August 27 against Montenegro. They will compete in a group that includes Lithuania, Great Britain, Sweden, and Finland.
Dennis Schroder Germany basketball journey stands out not only for athletic achievement but also for his perseverance in confronting societal challenges. His plans to build basketball infrastructure in Braunschweig signal a lasting impact on future generations, while his leadership continues to inspire on and off the court.