Franz Wagner shined in Germany’s 98-86 semifinal victory over Finland at EuroBasket 2025.
The Orlando Magic ahead contributed 22 factors whereas taking pictures 37.5% from three-point vary to assist safe his nation’s spot within the championship sport.
One other NBA star Dennis Schroder additionally delivered an excellent efficiency with 26 factors and 12 assists, changing into the primary participant to succeed in double-digit assists in 30 years.
Nonetheless, one participant emerged as an surprising storyline together with his constant event play.
Isaac Bonga scored 10 factors and made two of three three-pointers whereas enjoying strong protection that restricted Finland celebrity Lauri Markkanen to only 16 factors.
His efficiency all through the event created buzz in NBA circles a few potential league return.
Franz Wagner turned one of the vocal supporters of Bonga’s NBA readiness following their semifinal victory.
“Sure, I do consider it, truly,” Wagner stated after the sport.
“I believe he’s proven for a few years now that he’s an elite defender, shoots the three rather well, and may make some performs off the bounce too. So I believe he may have a number of groups curious about him.”
Bonga beforehand performed within the NBA from 2018 to 2022 with the Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors.
His most efficient stint got here with Toronto through the 2019-20 season, averaging 18.9 minutes per sport with 5.0 factors and three.4 assists.
The German ahead left the NBA attributable to considerations about his explosiveness and inconsistent taking pictures.
Wagner believes these points have been addressed via Bonga’s worldwide performances and growth overseas.
Nonetheless, Bonga himself remained diplomatically targeted on the quick activity slightly than discussing potential NBA alternatives.
“I believe it’s probably not one thing I’m pondering proper now,” Bonga admitted. “I’m extra targeted on ensuring we win within the finals.”
Latest success tales like Guerschon Yabusele’s return with the Philadelphia 76ers and later joined New York Knicks reveal that gamers can efficiently transition again to the NBA after growing their video games internationally.
Bonga’s EuroBasket performances counsel he may comply with an analogous path if the chance arises after Germany’s championship pursuit concludes.
