Christian Anderson Jr. is pushing through an ankle injury while adjusting to the physical demands of playing in the NBA. The Charlotte Hornets guard said his ankle is not yet at 100 percent, but he is grinding through the rehabilitation process as the season progresses.
The Hornets opened the campaign with three wins in their first four games before dropping four consecutive contests. For Anderson, playing on the professional stage alongside players he watched growing up, such as Trae Young and Jayson Tatum, remains a surreal experience.
“That is all pretty surreal,” Anderson said. “Playing on this big stage and competing is a lot of fun, and then we are also winning. Facing guys like Trae Young that I followed as a kid, or playing against Jayson Tatum in the preseason, was really cool. There are really good defenders in this league, too. The most important thing for me is to handle the pressure and get better with every game.”
Defensive Assignments Under Head Coach
Before the season started, Charlotte head coach outlined specific defensive responsibilities for the guard.
“At the start of the season, defense had priority,” Anderson said. “I am supposed to put pressure on the ball handler and not make it easy for the opponent. I am supposed to be a pest, make plays on that side of the floor and wear down opposing players. In offense, I am supposed to direct the game, take care of the ball and create plays.”
The physical adjustment from college basketball to the NBA has required a swift adaptation. The speed and physicality of the professional level present nightly challenges, though Anderson noted that competing against established veterans helps build a sense of belonging.
Mentorship and Competition with Dennis Schröder
The Hornets backcourt features veteran point guard Dennis Schröder, who joined the franchise via trade.
I can see what he does on the floor and why he is so successful, and try to transfer that to my game.”
Anderson explained that Schröder actively provides instruction during timeouts and substitutions, offering technical feedback on leadership, defense, and ball pressure.
“Dennis is one of the best German players to ever play,” Anderson said. “It is super exciting to have him here, and that goes beyond the floor. We can exchange views off the court. And when we travel to the national team, I already have a bit more experience playing with him and know him better.”
Reuniting with Hannes Steinbach in Charlotte
Anderson’s arrival in Charlotte coincided with the selection of fellow German Hannes Steinbach. The two players grew up together through the youth national teams, starting with the U16 squad.
“It feels like a circle is closing,” Anderson said of sharing an NBA roster with Steinbach. “We played together in U16 and experienced this whole path together until we were drafted by the same team. I have someone I can lean on who is experiencing right now the exact same thing as I am.”
Anderson recalled the draft night when he learned he was heading to Charlotte, unaware initially that Steinbach had also been selected by the Hornets. The presence of familiar faces from the German national program has eased the transition from Atlanta, where Anderson grew up with his German-American father.
“If you feel comfortable off the floor, it is easier to feel comfortable on the floor,” Anderson said. “I had people around me from the beginning that I felt a quick connection with. That is like a second family.”
Last year, Anderson participated in training camps and preparations with the senior German national team ahead of European competition, working alongside Schröder. Looking ahead, the young guard aims to secure a roster spot for the upcoming World Cup and pursue a gold medal.
“I definitely want to be there at the World Cup next year and win a gold medal,” Anderson said. “This year it was pretty difficult, but whenever I get the chance and are nominated, I want to be there.”
