Franz Jacob Wagner, born on August 27, 2001, is a rising star in professional basketball, currently showcasing his talents with the Orlando Magic in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Hailing from Berlin, Germany, Wagner’s journey to NBA stardom is marked by impressive achievements and a passion for the game.

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Quick Facts

Full Name	Franz Wagner
Date of Birth	August 27, 2001
Age	22
Birth Place	Berlin, Germany
Nationality	German
Religion	Not publicly disclosed
Zodiac Sign	Virgo
Chinese Zodiac	Snake
Height	6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
Weight	220 lb (100 kg)
High School	Not specified
University	University of Michigan
Father’s Name	Axel Schultz
Mother’s Name	Beate Wagner
Girlfriend	Single
Children	None
Profession	Professional Basketball
League	NBA
Position	Small Forward
Current Team	Orlando Magic
Jersey Number	22
NBA Draft	2021: 1st round, 8th overall pick
Playing Career	2017–2019; 2021–present
Net Worth	Estimated $5 million
Social Media	Instagram Twitter

Franz Wagner Early Years 

Wagner, a towering 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) forward, was a highly sought-after prospect during high school, earning impressive recruiting ratings of 4/5 stars from Rivals and 247Sports. Despite tempting offers, including a professional contract with Alba Berlin, he made a pivotal decision on July 6, 2019, to commit to playing college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines under the coaching guidance of Juwan Howard.

College Career 

Wagner’s collegiate journey began with an unfortunate setback when he fractured his right wrist on October 21, 2019. However, he showcased resilience and made a triumphant return on November 27, 2019, contributing significantly to Michigan’s victory over Iowa State. 

Throughout college, Wagner displayed remarkable skills, earning accolades such as a 2020 Big Ten All-Freshman team spot. His sophomore season was equally impressive, culminating in his decision to declare for the 2021 NBA draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility.

Professional Career

Alba Berlin (2017–2019)

Wagner’s professional career started with Alba Berlin, where he played a dual role in the BBL and the ProB league. His standout performances earned him the BBL Best Young Player Award in the 2018–19 season. 

Orlando Magic

His dreams culminated in the 2021 NBA draft when the Orlando Magic selected him as the eighth overall pick. Wagner made an immediate impact, securing a double-double in December 2021 and subsequently being named the NBA Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month.

The 2021–22 NBA season saw Wagner’s continued ascent, culminating in his inclusion in the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Notably, he showcased his scoring prowess with a season-high 38 points against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 27, 2021. Despite facing challenges and a suspension in the 2022–23 season, Wagner finished his sophomore campaign with impressive averages of 18.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.

International Career

Wagner’s contributions extend beyond the NBA, as he has been an integral part of the German national team. His journey began with the FIBA U16 European Championship in 2017, and he later played a pivotal role in Germany’s gold medal victory at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in 2018. Wagner’s international success continued in EuroBasket 2022, where he led Germany to a bronze medal with impressive averages of 16.1 points and four rebounds per game.

In a historic achievement in 2023, Wagner became a world champion, clinching gold at the FIBA Basketball World Cup with the German national team. His stellar individual performance earned him a spot on the All-FIBA World Cup Second Team, solidifying his status as a global basketball star.

Family Background

Franz Wagner’s family background is rooted in Berlin, Germany, where his parents, Axel Schultz and Beate Wagner, hail from. Beate, a freelance medical writer, and Axel, a former handball player, played pivotal roles in nurturing Franz and his older brother, Mo Wagner, into accomplished basketball players. The family’s commitment to basketball is evident as both brothers not only played together in the same club but now share the court as teammates for the Orlando Magic in the NBA. This German family’s strong sports legacy extends beyond borders, with Franz representing Germany in international competitions, including the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Personal Life and Achievements

Beyond the courts, Wagner shares a unique connection with basketball, being the younger brother of Moritz Wagner, who also plays for the Orlando Magic. Moritz, a first-round pick in the 2018 NBA draft, and Franz form a dynamic sibling duo, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA and the international basketball scene.

In recognition of his achievements, Wagner has received numerous honors, including the BBL Best Young Player Award, NBA All-Rookie First Team, and a coveted spot on the All-FIBA World Cup Second Team in 2023. His journey from Berlin to the global stage reflects not only individual success but also a commitment to excellence in the sport of basketball.

Physical Attributes

Franz Jacob Wagner is an imposing figure on the basketball court, standing tall at 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 meters). This remarkable height provides him with a significant advantage, allowing him to dominate both ends of the court with his presence. Complementing his towering stature is a solid build, as he maintains a listed weight of 220 pounds (100 kilograms). This combination of height and weight underscores Wagner’s physical prowess and versatility, making him a formidable force in the world of professional basketball.

Relationship Status

Currently dedicated to his flourishing career in the NBA, Franz Wagner maintains a private personal life and is reportedly single. Focused on the trajectory of his professional journey with the Orlando Magic, Wagner’s commitment to his basketball career takes precedence. This choice to keep his personal life discreet underscores his dedication to honing his skills and achieving success in the competitive realm of the NBA. 

As he continues to make strides in his career, the spotlight remains on his athletic accomplishments, highlighting a deliberate emphasis on professional growth and achievement in basketball.

Salary and Net Worth

Franz Wagner’s salary trajectory reflects his rising prominence in the NBA, with a notable increase from $5,007,840 in the 2021/22 season to $5,258,280 in the 2022/23 season as a member of the Orlando Magic. He has also contributed to an estimated net worth of $5 million; his escalating salary suggests a promising career and financial growth in professional basketball. As he continues to showcase his skills and contribute to Orlando Magic, his earnings and overall financial standing will likely see further positive developments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Franz Wagner?

As of 2023, Franz Wagner is 21 years old.

Who are Franz Wagner’s parents?

Franz Wagner’s parents are Axel Schultz and Beate Wagner.

What team does Franz Wagner play for?

Franz Wagner is a player for the Orlando Magic in the NBA.

In what basketball position does Franz Wagner play?

Franz Wagner plays in the Forward position in basketball.

Is Franz Wagner participating in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup?

Yes, Franz Wagner is set to represent the German National Basketball Team alongside his older brother, Mo Wagner, in the upcoming 2023 FIBA Basketball World.