Top 9 German NBA Players

German NBA players have been making their mark in the NBA over the past decades. These players became standout NBA picks through skill and determination. 

From legends like Dirk Nowitzki to rising stars like Franz Wagner, German athletes have consistently delivered. Their presence has influenced teams, inspired fans, and shaped the league’s international image. 

This list highlights the top 9 German NBA players who stood out as exceptional NBA picks and left their mark on the game.

9. Isaiah Hartenstein

Career Stats: 6.8 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.0 APG; 59.2 FG%, 25.5 FG3%, 68.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Isaiah Hartenstein has quickly become one of the best German NBA players through grit, hustle, and steady improvement. Born in Oregon, Hartenstein represents Germany internationally and proudly carries that identity into the league.

He began his NBA journey with the Houston Rockets in 2018. Though minutes were limited early on, he stayed focused and worked hard. As a result, his skills developed steadily across multiple teams, including the Cavaliers, Nuggets, Clippers, and Knicks.

Hartenstein is known for his rebounding, rim protection, and smart passing. These traits make him a valuable asset in today’s fast-paced NBA. Furthermore, his energy and unselfish play often shift momentum during games, affecting NBA odds and team performance.

In New York, Hartenstein has found a larger role. He brings consistent effort on both ends of the court. His ability to switch on defense and facilitate offense is rare for big men.

Although he’s not a high scorer, his impact goes beyond stats. Coaches trust him in critical moments, and teammates rely on his effort. Additionally, his strong international ties help grow Germany’s reputation in basketball.

Overall, Hartenstein’s toughness, versatility, and rising influence make him one of the top German players in today’s NBA.

8. Moritz Wagner – Moe Twin Magic

Career Stats: 9.2 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.2 APG; 52.5 FG%, 32.4 FG3%, 80.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Moritz Wagner has earned recognition as one of the best German NBA players through energy, passion, and offensive versatility. Born in Berlin, Wagner rose to fame during his college career at Michigan, then entered the NBA in 2018.

He was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers and later played for the Wizards and Celtics. Eventually, he found a strong fit with the Orlando Magic. There, he embraced his role as a high-energy forward who can stretch the floor.

Wagner brings scoring, rebounding, and emotion to every game. His ability to hit outside shots keeps defenses honest. Additionally, his hustle and physicality often swing momentum in key moments.

While his stats may not dominate headlines, Wagner’s impact is clear on the court. Coaches value his spark off the bench and his ability to change games. Moreover, his chemistry with younger players—especially his brother Franz Wagner—adds depth to Orlando’s lineup.

Off the court, Moritz proudly represents Germany and plays a key role on the national team. His international experience boosts his leadership and confidence.

In conclusion, Wagner’s combination of skill, heart, and hustle makes him one of Germany’s top NBA players and a rising fan favorite.

7. Maxi Kleber – Dallas Stretch 4

Career Stats: 6.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.2 APG; 44.3 FG%, 35.4 FG3%, 77.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Maxi Kleber has proven himself as one of the best German NBA players through defense, versatility, and team-first mentality. Born in Würzburg, Germany—Dirk Nowitzki’s hometown—Kleber joined the Dallas Mavericks in 2017 and quickly earned a valuable role.

From the start, Kleber impressed with his basketball IQ and hustle. He plays tough defense, often guarding multiple positions with success. His shot-blocking ability adds protection near the rim, which helps stabilize the Mavericks’ defense.

Offensively, Kleber stretches the floor with reliable three-point shooting. This allows him to fit perfectly into modern NBA systems. As a result, he complements stars like Luka Dončić by creating space and making smart plays.

Though not a flashy player, Kleber’s impact shows in the details. He sets hard screens, rotates quickly on defense, and rarely forces bad shots. Moreover, he consistently steps up in playoff games, often guarding elite scorers and making clutch contributions.

Internationally, Kleber has also represented Germany, adding depth and experience to the national team. His steady performance in both the NBA and on the global stage boosts his legacy.

In conclusion, Maxi Kleber’s dedication, consistency, and all-around game make him one of the most respected German players in the NBA today.

6. Daniel Theis – Reliable Center

Career Stats: 7.1 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.3 APG; 53.7 FG%, 32.6 FG3%, 72.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Daniel Theis has earned his place among the best German NBA players through defense, grit, and consistent effort. Born in Salzgitter, Germany, Theis built a strong career in Europe before joining the NBA in 2017 with the Boston Celtics.

From his debut, Theis impressed coaches with his hustle, toughness, and ability to guard multiple positions. He quickly became a key part of Boston’s rotation. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and pick-and-roll defense made him a reliable presence on the court.

Offensively, Theis knows his role and plays within it. He sets solid screens, finishes around the rim, and occasionally knocks down jumpers. As a result, he helps stars operate more effectively while doing the little things that win games.

Over the years, Theis has also played for the Bulls, Rockets, Pacers, and Clippers. No matter the team, he brings the same intensity and professionalism. Coaches trust him to anchor the defense and lead by example.

Internationally, Theis plays a key role for the German national team. His experience and toughness help Germany compete against the world’s best.

In summary, Daniel Theis’s defense, work ethic, and consistent contributions make him one of the most dependable German players in NBA history.

5. Chris Kaman – The Caveman Under the Rim

Career Stats: 11.2 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.3 APG; 48.9 FG%, 4.2 FG3%, 74.3 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star

Chris Kaman stands out as one of the best German NBA players due to his skill, longevity, and international impact. Although born in the United States, he gained German citizenship in 2008 and proudly represented Germany in international competitions.

Kaman was drafted sixth overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2003. From the start, he showcased toughness, rebounding, and scoring ability. He peaked during the 2009–10 season, averaging 18.5 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. As a result, he earned his only NBA All-Star selection that year.

Over 13 seasons, Kaman played for the Clippers, Hornets, Mavericks, Lakers, and Trail Blazers. He consistently provided size, post scoring, and veteran leadership. Moreover, he finished his career with strong averages of 11.2 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.

In addition to his NBA success, Kaman made a major contribution to German basketball. He played for Germany in the 2008 Olympics, helping raise the national team’s profile. His commitment to representing Germany further solidified his legacy.

Although not as celebrated as Dirk Nowitzki, Kaman carved out an impressive career. Thanks to his consistency, physical presence, and international dedication, he remains one of the top German players in NBA history.

4. Franz Wagner – The Shifty Magic Forward

Career Stats: 19.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.7 APG; 47.4 FG%, 32.2 FG3%, 85.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x All-Rookie 1st Team
*still active

Franz Wagner has quickly become one of the best German NBA players with skill, versatility, and poise beyond his years. Born in Berlin, Wagner starred at the University of Michigan before being drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2021.

From his rookie season, Wagner impressed fans and analysts with his smooth scoring, defensive instincts, and basketball IQ. He averaged over 15 points per game and earned All-Rookie First Team honors. As a result, he immediately became a favorite in NBA player prop bets.

Wagner continues to improve each season, showing growth as a scorer, passer, and defender. His ability to guard multiple positions adds major value. Offensively, he can shoot, drive, and finish with either hand, making him tough to defend.

Alongside his brother Moritz, Franz has helped transform the Orlando Magic into an exciting young team. His leadership, even at a young age, stands out on and off the court.

Internationally, he played a key role in Germany’s 2023 FIBA World Cup championship. His clutch play and maturity earned global praise.

In summary, Franz Wagner’s all-around game, rapid development, and rising popularity in NBA player prop bets make him one of Germany’s finest NBA players ever.

3. Dennis Schröder – Solid Ball Handler and Floor General

Career Stats: 13.9 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 4.9 APG; 43.2 FG%, 34.2 FG3%, 83.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Dennis Schröder has solidified his place as one of the best German NBA players through speed, confidence, and consistent production. Born in Braunschweig, Germany, Schröder entered the NBA in 2013 when the Atlanta Hawks drafted him 17th overall.

From the start, Schröder impressed with his quickness, ball-handling, and fearless scoring. He became a reliable point guard and valuable sixth man. Over the years, he played for several teams, including the Thunder, Lakers, Celtics, and Raptors. No matter the roster, he brought energy and leadership.

Schröder has averaged double-digit points in nearly every season. His ability to attack defenses and create shots makes him hard to guard. Additionally, NBA betting sites often highlight him in player props due to his scoring potential.

Beyond the NBA, Schröder proudly represents Germany. In 2023, he led the national team to its first-ever FIBA World Cup title. He earned MVP honors for his leadership and clutch performances.

Schröder combines experience, skill, and heart. He steps up in big moments and leads by example on both ends of the floor.

In conclusion, Dennis Schröder’s speed, consistency, and success on NBA betting sites confirm his status as one of Germany’s greatest NBA players.

2. Detlef Schrempf – The Grand Teuton In Indiana

Career Stats: 13.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 3.4 APG; 49.1 FG%, 38.4 FG3%, 80.3 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Sixth Man of the Year, 3x NBA All-Star, 1x All-NBA selection

Detlef Schrempf is one of the best German NBA players ever due to his versatility, longevity, and consistent impact. Born in Leverkusen, Germany, Schrempf played college basketball at the University of Washington before entering the NBA in 1985.

The Dallas Mavericks drafted him eighth overall, making him one of the first German-born players in the league. Early in his career, Schrempf showed flashes of scoring and rebounding ability. However, his true breakout came after joining the Indiana Pacers.

In Indiana, he won two NBA Sixth Man of the Year awards by bringing instant offense and smart passing off the bench. Eventually, he became a full-time starter and earned three All-Star selections during his career.

Later, Schrempf played a key role with the Seattle SuperSonics, helping them reach the 1996 NBA Finals. He was known for his high basketball IQ, smooth shooting, and excellent court vision.

Schrempf could play multiple positions and always put the team first. His ability to shoot threes, rebound, and distribute made him unique in his era.

In summary, Detlef Schrempf’s all-around game, team success, and influence on future German players make him a true NBA pioneer and legend.

1. Dirk Nowitzki – The Greatest German NBA Player Ever

Career Stats: 20.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG; 47.1 FG%, 38.0 FG3%, 87.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 1x NBA MVP, 14x NBA All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections

Dirk Nowitzki is widely regarded as the greatest German NBA player and one of the best NBA power forwards in history. Born in Würzburg, Germany, Nowitzki entered the NBA in 1998 after being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks and traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

From the beginning, Nowitzki changed the game with his shooting ability and unique skill set for a seven-footer. He could score from anywhere, using his signature one-legged fadeaway to dominate defenders. His shooting range and footwork redefined what power forwards could do offensively.

Nowitzki spent his entire 21-season career with the Mavericks, showing unmatched loyalty and leadership. He became a 14-time All-Star and won the NBA MVP award in 2007. In 2011, he led Dallas to its first NBA championship, defeating the heavily favored Miami Heat.

His playoff performances were clutch, and his consistency set him apart. He scored over 31,000 career points, ranking among the NBA’s all-time leaders. Additionally, Nowitzki inspired a generation of European players to reach the NBA.

He combined elite talent with professionalism and humility. His legacy stretches far beyond statistics.

In conclusion, Dirk Nowitzki’s impact, loyalty, and skill firmly place him among the best NBA power forwards and Germany’s greatest basketball legend.