The end of the Wagners - on separate paths into the new NBA season

Wagner brothers begin new NBA chapter on different paths Franz Wagner, 25, and Moritz Wagner, 29, are splitting their NBA journeys after nearly five years playing together for the Orlando Magic. Moritz has signed with the Brooklyn Nets, while Franz will remain in Orlando. The decision marks the end of an era for the pair, who built a shared legacy in the league and helped elevate German basketball’s global profile. The brothers began their NBA careers together in 2021. Franz was drafted eighth overall by the Magic, who had signed Moritz several months earlier. Their combined presence made them a notable duo in the league, contributing to the NBA’s decision to hold a regular-season game in Berlin in 2023. They also led Germany to its first-ever men’s basketball world championship in 2023 and competed in the Paris Olympics the following year. Franz added another major title in 2025, winning the European Championship, while Moritz missed the tournament due to injury. Moritz Wagner, now with the Nets, described his move to New York as feeling “like my home in America.” He lives there with his girlfriend, Maggie McQuade, who works in marketing for the NBA. Wagner said Brooklyn reminded him of Berlin, calling the city “very close” to his roots. The Nets, however, are expected to be among the weaker teams in the upcoming season, which means Wagner’s experience and leadership could be crucial for the franchise. Franz Wagner, meanwhile, is entering a new phase in his career with the Magic. He signed a long-term contract that runs through 2030 and is projected to earn $224 million over the duration. Alongside Paolo Banchero, he is one of the team’s core players. With the hiring of Sean Sweeney as head coach, the Magic hope to break their playoff drought, having failed to advance beyond the first round in each of the last three seasons. Under Sweeney’s system, Franz will take on a greater role as a point guard, emphasizing ball movement, shot creation, and driving to the rim, skills he has showcased for Germany. During a preseason interview, he emphasized the team’s goal to play aggressively, cohesively, and quickly. “We want to play tough, play together, play it fast and enjoy playing together,” he said. “We’ve got a little bit more space for our guys to get in the paint and make plays, for themselves and for others.” Despite the change in circumstances, both brothers expressed gratitude for the time they spent playing together. Franz acknowledged the sadness of his brother’s departure but called the experience “super special.” Moritz, too, reflected on the emotional impact of the split, saying both he and his brother cried upon agreeing to the move. “We’re just staying home,” he said, referring to Brooklyn as a familiar place. With the Wagners no longer sharing the court, German basketball fans may need to shift their loyalties slightly for the upcoming season. While the brothers once drew attention as a unit, their individual roles now stand apart. Moritz’s presence in Brooklyn adds depth to the Nets, while Franz continues to anchor the Magic’s future. German basketball’s influence in the NBA remains strong, with eight German players currently active in the league. As the Wagners embark on separate paths, their legacies, and the connections they forged, will continue to shape the sport in Europe and beyond.