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Competition in the concluding run for Schröder's "Warrior" race?

Basketball player Daniel Theis emerged victorious in the NBA Finals, clinching a world title. This season, he is anticipated to contribute significantly to Basketball Germany once more. However, the question remains: can he sustain his strong form from the recent years?

Schröder's last contest for "The Warrior"?
Schröder's last contest for "The Warrior"?

Competition in the concluding run for Schröder's "Warrior" race?

In the world of German basketball, the upcoming summer tournaments are shrouded in a sense of anticipation and uncertainty. Key to the team's success could be the fitness and performance of Daniel Theis, a veteran player who has been a stalwart in the team for over a decade.

Coach Alex Mumbru has been navigating a squad beset by injuries, ailments, and illnesses for weeks, and Theis' knees and fitness will be under the microscope during the upcoming games. Theis, who left the NBA this winter to join AS Monaco, is seen as the defensive anchor for the German team, especially with many question marks.

Theis' only appearance since joining Monaco was the Supercup semi-final against Turkey, where he appeared rusty and made some easy misses. This summer could be his last big hurrah in the national team, as it is considered unlikely that he will return to the NBA.

At 33 years old, Theis has a history of injuries, and his age is a concern. However, his experience and defensive prowess cannot be overlooked. His absence would significantly impact Germany's medal chances, as evidenced by the team's struggles in his absence during the games against Slovenia and Serbia, where he missed two games and one game respectively due to knee problems.

The German team, without Moritz Wagner (ACL tear) and NBA champion Isaiah Hartenstein (opted out), has a great need under the basket this summer. Orlando pro Tristan da Silva is expected to play a bigger role, with Ariel Hukporti and da Silva part of the next generation ready to step up.

The duo of Theis and Dennis Schröder, who have known each other since Schröder was 15 years old, is considered one of the best in German basketball over the past ten years. The praise for their partnership extends geographically. Schröder has even expressed a desire for them to play together in the NBA in the future.

Per Günther, a former national player and current TV expert, believes that Theis is indispensable for the German team. This sentiment is echoed by those who have watched Theis play, from his days at Ulm to his stints with the Boston Celtics, the Houston Rockets, and the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA.

As the upcoming Spain games approach, Theis will face a sporting and physical test. His performance will be crucial in determining Germany's chances at the upcoming tournaments. The basketball world eagerly awaits to see if Theis can rise to the occasion and lead the team to success.

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