The case was “very, very unfortunate. Maxi would have been fit and would have liked to play too. Now the people who are there have to step on the gas like last year,” said Nowitzki at SPORT1’s request in a press conference on the occasion of his upcoming induction into the basketball hall of fame on August 12.
Captain Schröder had criticized Mavs professional Kleber, whereupon he announced his resignation for the World Cup (August 25 to September 10). Nowitzki, who played with Kleber for the Dallas Mavericks, understands the center’s decision.
“Of course I can understand his decision a bit. If you are criticized by the team captain, he says: ‘Okay, if I’m not wanted, then I’ll withdraw.’”
However, Nowitzki does not expect that the inglorious process in preparation for the World Cup in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines will have any further impact on the German team.
The former top star of the NBA and World Cup bronze medalist from 2002 sees the selection of the German Basketball Association (DBB) as well positioned.
“Even for the whole World Cup we should have one of the best squads on paper. But you always have to see how the team comes together,” said Nowitzki.
With Sports Information Service (SID)
2023-08-03 11:50:46
#National #team #Zoff #Dennis #Schröder #World #Cup
