“We didn’t come for silver,” Dennis Schröder had declared ahead of EuroBasket 2025 finals. “We already have silver now, but that’s not why we’re here. We’re here for gold.” And gold he got. On September 14, 2025, Schröder led Germany to a historic 88–83 victory over Turkey in the EuroBasket final, securing the nation’s first European championship since 1993. Schröder played a pivotal role, scoring 16 points, 14 of them in the second half, along with 3 rebounds and a tournament-record 12 assists. His performance earned him the TISSOT MVP award, solidifying his status as a key figure in Germany’s basketball resurgence.

Amid these remarkable achievements, Schröder’s personal life has been equally heartwarming. His wife shared a deeply emotional message on his birthday online, expressing her pride, gratitude, and admiration for his dedication, resilience, and role as an inspiration to their children. Schroder turned 32 recently on September 15, which means that his nation’s EuroBasket triumph could hardly have come at a better time.

Following her heartfelt post, Schröder responded online as well, and he had a LOT to say.

Dennis Schröder’s Instagram post following Germany’s EuroBasket 2025 victory was a declaration of gratitude, love, and leadership. He wrote, “I TOLD YOU @ellen_schroeder: I‘D WIN THE GOLD MEDAL FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART♥️”, directly acknowledging the emotional support of his wife and the shared pride in his accomplishments.

The post continued, “WITHOUT MY TEAMMATES THIS HAVE BEEN IMPOSSIBLE – THE BEST TEAM I‘VE EVER BEEN PART OF!! I LOVE Y‘ALL”, emphasizing that this historic achievement was not his alone but the result of collective effort. By calling his teammates the “best team” he’s ever been part of, Schröder underscored the cohesion, trust, and camaraderie that propelled Germany to its first EuroBasket title since 1993. And well, rightfully so.

Alongside Schroder, Franz Wagner and Isaac Bonga both had starring roles in the final. While Wagner contributed with 18 points and eight rebounds, Bonga was the team’s highest scorer against Turkey, with 20 points. That has been a common theme throughout the tournament. While Schroder has been the team’s primary scorer and facilitator throughout the tournament, Wagner’s display in the final meant that he finished with an average of 20.8 points per game, slightly above Schroder at 20.3.

Further, the likes of Daniel Theis, Isaac Bonga, Andreas Obst and Tristan Da Silva all averaged around 10 points per game, further proving that this was hardly a one-man show, and Schroder did have the help around him that is befitting for a Germany roster that are the current world champions.

Schröder’s  performance in the finals—16 points, 12 assists, and crucial plays in the closing moments, could have easily dominated the narrative, especially considering that he has been a constant threat for Germany throughout the tournament.. Yet, he chose to spotlight the team that supported him through a grueling tournament, reinforcing the idea that great leaders elevate those around them rather than taking sole credit.

In the backdrop of this, Schröder’s wife, Ellen, had posted a heartfelt birthday message, celebrating not only his athletic feats but also his character and role as a family man. She wrote,

“Yesterday you gave yourself the greatest gift! European Champion and MVP of the tournament! 🏆✨ The children and I are infinitely proud of you… You are not only our hero, but above all an inspiration for the children, a sporting role model that everyone looks up to. A leader and teammate straight out of a storybook.”

Schröder’s Instagram response complemented this beautifully, linking his personal joy with professional triumph and highlighting the foundation that he has built his success on.

Dennis Schröder’s resilience shines amid racial abuse at EuroBasket 2025

Dennis Schröder’s triumph at EuroBasket 2025 was hard-earned, not just on the scoreboard but in the face of blatant adversity. During Germany’s 107–88 victory over Lithuania on August 30 in Tampere, Finland, Schröder was subjected to racial abuse from fans, including monkey noises while he walked to the locker room at halftime. Speaking afterward, Schröder stated firmly, “Making monkey noises, that’s something I don’t respect… No matter what status, insults, that’s all fine. But racism simply doesn’t belong in this sport. That’s something that’s not OK.”

FIBA officials condemned the behavior, banned one fan for the remainder of the tournament, and confirmed that local authorities were investigating the incident. Despite these challenges, Schröder’s leadership remained unwavering, scoring a game-high 26 points and guiding Germany to secure a top position in their group, ensuring advancement to the round of 16 in Riga.

Looking ahead, there are speculations of him getting a NBA hall of fame after this extraordinary feat. As for his career in NBA, he had made history with his move to the Sacramento Kings in July 2025, he set the record for most NBA franchises played for by a non-American player – ten different teams. Now all eyes are on his return.

Dennis Schröder’s journey in 2025 stands as a powerful testament to perseverance, leadership, and legacy. From lifting Germany to its first EuroBasket title in over three decades to confronting adversity with dignity, he has solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in modern international basketball. And what better way to celebrate the win, if not on his birthday.