What to Expect 🙂
Who is Franz Wagner?
Franz Wagner is a 23-year-old forward for the Orlando Magic. Drafted 8th overall in 2021, he’s quickly become one of the most promising young players in the NBA.
Known for his scoring, passing, and rebounding, Wagner has been a key player for the Magic since day one. Now? We tell you all there’s to know about him.
Franz Wagner Early Life
Born on August 27, 2001, in Berlin, Germany, Franz Wagner grew up around basketball, with his older brother, Moritz Wagner, already in the NBA.
He started playing basketball at a young age, showing talent early on, and eventually made the leap to professional basketball in Germany before moving to college in the U.S.
Clock this: Franz is 23 years old, as of December 2024. He’s originally from Berlin, Germany — born and raised, and so is an German citizen by birth. He’s a Christian and are his parents and siblings. His full name or birth name is Franz Jacob Wagner.
Given his parents’ ethnic background and ethnic ancestry, Franz’s ethnicity is White (European). However, he currently lives in Orlando, United States… he has been living in the U.S., since he relocated for his college education.
Franz Wagner Family
Franz’s family is heavily involved in basketball. His brother Moritz plays for the Magic too, and his parents, Axel and Beate, have always supported their sons. The family bond is strong, with both brothers sharing the same drive for success.
Franz’s father, Axel Schultz, and his mother, Beate Wagner, were both supportive of his athletic skills, when he first indicated an interest in playing the sports professionally.
Clock this: His parents, Axel and Beate, have been a strong support system throughout him and his older brother’s careers. The two brothers share a bond that goes beyond the court, and Franz credits much of his work ethic to the example set by Moritz.
Interestingly, their mom, Beate, moved to Orlando, United States, to be closer to them, which further shows just how much family matters to Franz.
Franz Wagner Dating History
What’s the tea on Franz Wagner’s love life? Word on the court is he’s dating his long-term girlfriend, Emily Kiser, a former Michigan basketball player.
The two met during Franz’s college days. Whether it’s love or just a strong assist, they seem to have a great relationship. No talk of marriage yet, though. But, relationship goals? Check.
Franz Wagner Education Timeline
Franz’s education timeline is closely tied to his basketball journey. He played college basketball for the Michigan Wolverines from 2019 to 2021.
Before making the jump to college, he was already highly recruited by various NCAA programs. Michigan was the best fit, and Franz committed to play there, even turning down a professional contract with his home team, Alba Berlin.
At Michigan, he was an instant impact player. In his freshman year, he made the Big Ten All-Freshman Team, and in his sophomore season, he earned All-Big Ten honors.
Franz’s college experience prepared him for the NBA, where he entered the draft in 2021 and became the 8th overall pick.
Career Timeline
Franz Wagner’s career timeline has been impressive, starting from his days in Germany.
2017-2019: Franz played for Alba Berlin in the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL), where he gained experience playing against top European talent. He won the BBL Best Young Player award in 2019 and was already showing signs of greatness.
2021: Franz declared for the NBA Draft and was picked 8th overall by the Orlando Magic, marking the start of his professional NBA journey.
2021-Present: Franz had an incredible rookie year. He became an immediate starter and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2022. His consistent play led the Magic to rebuild around him. Franz’s potential seems limitless as he continues to develop into a well-rounded player.
Franz Wagner Career Highlights
Franz Wagner’s career highlights already include some huge moments.
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (2022): His first year in the NBA was a huge success, earning him a spot on the All-Rookie First Team.
- Gold Medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup: Franz helped Germany win their first-ever gold medal at the FIBA World Cup, cementing his reputation as an international talent.
- 38-Point Game (2021): In just his rookie year, Franz dropped a career-high 38 points against the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing his scoring ability.
- Playoff Performances: Franz’s 2024 playoff performance was a standout, including a game where he scored 34 points and grabbed 13 rebounds against the Cleveland Cavaliers to help tie the series.
Body Measurements
Standing at 6 feet 10 inches tall (208 cm) and weighing 100 kg (220 lbs), Franz has the size to compete with larger players while maintaining the agility of a smaller forward.
Clock this: He is of White (European) descent with German ancestry, has pale skin color, light brown hair color, and blue eyes.
Franz Wagner Net Worth & Salary
Franz Wagner’s net worth is estimated at around $22 million. With a lucrative NBA contract and endorsements, his wealth is on the rise. For the 2024 season, his salary is $7 million, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
As he continues to dominate the NBA, his net worth will only grow. Franz’s contract extension with Orlando in 2024 set him up for the long term, with a $224 million deal over five years, meaning he’ll earn an average of $44 million a year.
Franz Wagner Contracts
In 2024, Franz signed a major 5-year, $224 million contract extension with the Orlando Magic. The deal guarantees him a huge payday, ensuring his future with the team for the next few years.
Franz’s new contract gives him a solid financial foundation and solidifies his place as a core player for the Magic moving forward. The contract, signed using Bird Rights, has Franz under contract with Orlando until 2029.
How He Makes His Money
Franz’s main source of income comes from his NBA contract with the Orlando Magic. However, his endorsement deals, particularly in Europe, add to his earnings.
As a rising star in the NBA, Franz has the potential to land even more sponsorships, whether through basketball apparel, international brand deals, or other business ventures.
His profile is only growing, and with his success both in the NBA and on the international stage, more opportunities will come his way.
Why He Stands Out
Franz Wagner is a unique player for several reasons. His combination of height, skill, and basketball IQ makes him stand out from other players in his position.
He’s not just a scorer; Franz is a playmaker who can create opportunities for his teammates while also being a reliable defender. His versatility means he can contribute in many ways, whether it’s scoring, rebounding, or distributing the ball.
Franz’s consistent improvement each season shows he has a strong work ethic and the drive to be great, and that’s why he stands out among the NBA’s young stars.
Fun Facts
- Brotherly Bond: Franz’s older brother, Moritz Wagner, is also in the NBA and plays for the Orlando Magic. The two share a strong family bond and are both making their mark in the league.
- World Champion: Franz helped lead Germany to a gold medal in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, an achievement that no German team had ever accomplished before.
- Close Call with Alba Berlin: Before heading to college, Franz almost signed with Alba Berlin as a pro, but he chose Michigan for his college experience. That decision has paid off big time, as he’s now one of the most promising young stars in the NBA.
Franz Wagner’s career is only getting started, and with his continued growth and success, he’ll be a name to remember in the NBA for years to come.
