Schroder outshines Poltl in Braunschweig homecoming, as Germany thump Austria

BRAUNSCHWEIG (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers) - There wasn't an empty seat to be found in the Volkswagen Halle in Braunschweig , as 6,600 spectators rushed in to witness local hero Dennis Schroder make his FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers debut.

The homecoming proved a success. The 24-year-old German superstar netted a game-high 25 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and added a couple of steals, as the hosts got the better off Jakob Poltl and Austria in the German-speaking derby in Group G with a lopsided 85-63 scoreline.

"It was a great event for us to be here in Braunschweig with the packed gym," playcaller Henrik Rodl spoke after the contest, arms crossed on the table in front of him. "It's certainly a special day for Dennis. It's absolutely cool how everybody here appreciates him. And we do too."

A warm-hearted welcome during team introductions and fond cheers throughout the contest; Dennis Schroder reveled in the atmosphere and returned  the favor to the home fans with an aggressive performance that saw him live at the free-throw line, converting 11-of-12 attempts from the stripe.

Niels Giffey and team captain Robin Benzing also played their part in the win with 15 and 12 points respectively for Germany, while Austria big man Poltl finished with 11 points in a game marred by foul trouble.

Schroder a fan favorite in Braunschweig

"The fact alone that he is here and people are focusing on him, already makes it easier for us. Opponents are tailoring their (defensive) game plan around Dennis. Everyone wants to make sure he is being stopped," Giffey directed his praise in the direction of the team's point guard.

"Life is easier when he penetrates and all eyes are on him, especially for myself and other shooters on the team. We have several guys who can score from outside, so that’s where Dennis is worth his weight in gold. He does a great job in setting us up."

The latest victory against Austria improved Germany's record in Group G to 5-0 and added another carry-over victory to their account; something that could benefit them greatly further in the road to China.

Looking to put the Mannschaft in an even better position to reach the World Cup, the German assist-meister Schroder will be hoping to keep their perfect record and the top spot in the standings intact in the final game of the First Round.

This time, in a less friendly atmosphere than Braunschweig;  on the road in Novi Sad against the European powerhouse Serbia.

FIBA