By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
One more NBA player will miss the qualifying games for the Eurobasket 2017, however his country is fully supporting his decision.
Germany star Dennis Schroder and the German Basketball Federation (DBB) have issued a joint statement announcing that the point guard will not take part in the FIBA EuroBasket 2017 Qualifiers which tip off on 31 August. Schroder is expected to be the starting point of the Atlanta Hawks and the 22 year old player will return to the States in order to “prepare for the most important season of his career’, according to the DBB statement.
“We support Dennis a hundred percent,” said DBB vice-president Armin Andres. “It is a very special situation for Dennis, which can be crucial for his entire career. He is scheduled to enter the starting line-up in Atlanta and he is needed there to undergo intensive and early training with the Hawks. He has our full understanding.” While Schroder was initially poised to lead Germany’s summer bid for a berth in next year’s big event and head coach Chris Fleming will have to modify his plans somewhat, the DBB believe this development could prove beneficial to both the player and German basketball in the near future.
“All this does not change my commitment to the German national team,” said Schroder. “It’s still very important to me, with the 2020 Olympic Games remaining as the utter goal in the whole process. I ask from basketball fans in Germany to show understanding to my situation. I will keep my fingers crossed during the Qualifiers and I look forward to seeing you all again at FIBA EuroBasket 2017”.