The most complete young German player since Dirk Nowitzki — Orlando's co-star and an elite two-way wing.
Franz Wagner was born in Berlin, Germany in 2001, the son of Brenda and Axel Wagner and younger brother of NBA player Moritz Wagner. Orlando Magic selected him eighth overall in the 2021 NBA Draft after one season at the University of Michigan. His career average of 22.4 points per game by age 22 represents one of the most rapid offensive developments by a wing player in recent NBA history. He was selected to one All-Star game. He averaged 30.4 points per game across a stretch in January 2024 — the highest monthly average in Orlando Magic franchise history since Shaquille O'Neal. His combination of scoring, rebounding, passing and defensive versatility gives him a statistical profile comparable to Kawhi Leonard's early career arc. He helped lead Germany to the FIBA World Cup gold medal in 2023 — a historic first for German basketball. He and Paolo Banchero form one of the most exciting young frontcourt combinations in the Eastern Conference. His German pragmatism in terms of playing style — efficient, team-oriented, defensively committed — combined with genuine offensive explosiveness makes him one of the most valuable young wings in the league.
Versatile forward for Orlando Magic and German national team
How They Played
Versatile wing with excellent ball-handling and scoring ability
Lasting Impact
Rising star who helped Germany win FIBA World Cup gold
All-Star 1x
Career Honours
- All-Star 1x
- All-NBA Third Team
- Olympic Gold Medal (Germany 2023 FIBA)