Who are the NBA’s Wagner brothers?

Throughout NBA’s history, dedicated fans have witnessed many talented pairs of brothers take to the court and put their skills to work. From the earliest duo of Al and Dick McGuire to Pau and Marc Gasol, followed by the popular Steph and Seth Curry, these brothers have proven themselves worthy of playing in one of the most challenging professional sporting leagues, with some even inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Among these is the duo of Moritz and Franz Wagner. Hailing from Berlin, Germany, the Wagner brothers have been tearing it up in the South East division of the NBA’s Eastern Conference, making them a must-watch on the Orlando Magic roster.

Moritz Wagner

Born in April 1997, Moritz “Mo” Wagner is the older brother, playing in his sixth NBA season and fourth with the Orlando Magic. Moritz was drafted with the 25th overall pick in 2018 out of University of Michigan.

During his three-year stint with the Michigan Wolverines, Moritz Wagner averaged 10.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 0.8 steals per game. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches tall, Moritz possesses a great frame which allows him to dominate in the paint and contribute on both ends of the court. He began his professional career with the LA Lakers, and has also played for the Washington Wizards, Boston Celtics and currently the Orlando Magic. In 41 games so far in the 2023/24 season, Moritz Wagner is averaging 11.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game.

Franz Wagner

Standing at 6 feet 10 inches tall, Franz Wagner possesses impressive versatility and excellent court vision. He is the younger of the two brothers, but arguably the more skilled. Following his brother’s footsteps, Franz committed to University of Michigan and played two seasons for the Wolverines, averaging 12.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 steals a game on 46.5% shooting from the field.

Throughout his college career, Franz Wagner proved to be a remarkable talent on both ends with his ability to guard multiple positions. In the 2021 NBA Draft, Magic took a chance on the younger Wagner, and selected him eighth overall. In his rookie season, he was in the ROY conversation, as he put up 15.2 points, 4.5 boards and 2.9 assists per contest.

In 35 games so far in the 2023/24 season, Wagner is averaging 20.8 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game.

How good are the Wagner Brothers?

Both Wagner brothers have proven to be excellent individual talents and team players for the Magic. The two have different skill sets, with Franz being a 6’10” small forward who can score at all levels and Moritz being a 6' 11” center.

Even when playing for their national side, their commitment to their craft has earned them even more fame, respect, and achievements as they helped Germany become the FIBA 2023 World Champions. Given their recent performances, the Wagner brothers are expected to sign lucrative multi-year deals in the NBA.