Did you catch Franz Wagner’s incredible birthday performance? The Orlando Magic star truly lit up the court as Germany kicked off their FIBA EuroBasket 2025 campaign with a resounding win! He’s not just making waves internationally; the Magic’s upcoming NBA season is also generating major buzz. Could this be the year they make a deep playoff run? Get the full story!

Rising NBA star Franz Wagner delivered a sensational performance for the Germany national basketball team, spearheading their dominant victory in the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 opener. Celebrating his 24th birthday on the court in Tampere, Finland, the talented forward for the Orlando Magic showcased his burgeoning skills, cementing his status as a pivotal player on the international stage. This stellar outing set a high bar for Germany’s campaign, fueled by the team’s ambition for another successful tournament run.

Wagner’s individual brilliance was undeniable, as he powered Germany with an impressive stat line of 22 points, eight rebounds, one assist, and two steals, demonstrating his all-around impact on both ends of the floor. His efficiency and leadership were critical in securing a decisive win against Montenegro, providing numerous basketball highlights. Fans and analysts alike are taking notice of the young star’s growing influence, both with the Orlando Magic and now with Germany Basketball.

Joining Wagner on the German roster was his Orlando Magic teammate, Tristan da Silva, a Munich native, who contributed four points in a more understated role during the victory. Conspicuously absent from the lineup was Franz’s older brother and Magic colleague, Moe Wagner, who continues his recovery from a torn ACL sustained last December, eagerly awaiting his return to competitive play for both club and country.

The German squad’s collective effort saw other significant contributions, including a strong showing from newly acquired Sacramento Kings guard, who tallied 21 points and four assists. On the opposing side, Montenegro’s charge was led by former Orlando Magic All-Star and current Chicago Bulls center, who topped all scorers with 23 points, battling fiercely against the formidable German defense.

Germany’s success in their EuroBasket opener is a continuation of a recent trend of excellence in international basketball. The team famously clinched the bronze medal at FIBA EuroBasket 2022, followed by a historic gold at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and a commendable fourth-place finish in last year’s Summer Olympics. With such a pedigree, Germany now looks ahead to their next Group B challenge against Sweden, aiming to maintain their winning momentum.

Stateside, the strong international play from key figures like Franz Wagner only amplifies the excitement surrounding the Orlando Magic’s upcoming NBA season. The Magic have garnered significant praise throughout the summer for their shrewd moves in free agency, notably securing talents like Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones. These strategic additions are poised to complement their existing core of Wagner and Paolo Banchero, elevating the team into a legitimate contender in the competitive Eastern Conference, a storyline that has captivated NBA news outlets.

ESPN’s panel of NBA writers recently underscored this optimism, placing the Orlando Magic at an impressive No. 3 among teams expected to make the biggest leaps this season, trailing only the San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks (who tied for first), and the Philadelphia 76ers. Esteemed writer Michael C. Wright encapsulated the sentiment, noting, “The young and hungry Orlando Magic lurk here as well, as they look to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2009-10,” signaling high expectations for their performance.

Coming off a first-round playoff exit against the Boston Celtics, the Magic organization and its fanbase are buzzing with anticipation. This upcoming campaign is widely regarded as the most highly-anticipated season in the franchise’s history since the iconic Dwight Howard era, promising a thrilling journey filled with crucial games and the potential for a deep playoff run, showcasing more unforgettable basketball highlights.