Speaking with Dirk Sing of the German outlet Augsburger Allgemeine, the Dallas Mavericks big man Maxi Kleber confirmed that he has no plans to return to Germany’s national basketball team in the future.
Kleber, who had previously represented Germany in several international competitions, including the 2014 EuroBasket and the 2019 World Cup, decided not to participate in the 2022 EuroBasket tournament following a deep playoff run with the Dallas Mavericks.
This decision drew criticism from national team captain Dennis Schröder, which led Kleber to withdraw from consideration for the 2023 World Cup. Schröder later apologized for his remarks.
Additionally, Kleber chose not to take part in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, though he mentioned he watched the tournament from home and continues to support the German team, even though his official involvement with the national squad has come to an end.
“The situation was what it was. That’s why I had to come to terms with it,” Kleber explained (as reported by Johnny Askounis of Eurohoops.net). “I watched the games as a fan, of course, because it is always positive for German basketball when the national team is successful.”
He further emphasized, “It’s ultimately about basketball continuing to grow in Germany. And the Olympic Games that everyone can watch on television is a great platform.
“I know a lot of guys on the team very well or are my friends, it was also great to watch them. … The national team is definitely over for me. So, there will be no return.”
International Notes: Kleber, Schofield, Faried, Beverley, Motley https://t.co/70WZJedjvI pic.twitter.com/J66kSC2lQm
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 29, 2024
