German world and European basketball champion Dennis Schröder has had a sports hall in his hometown of Braunschweig named after him.
The sports hall of his former school IGS Frantsches Feld was on Friday renamed Dennis Schröder Hall.
“It means everything. Here is where I started in the hall, where I had my first dribblings and baskets,” Schröder said at the ceremony.
Braunschweig mayor Thorsten Kornblum said: “Renaming this hall is more than just a tribute to sporting achievements – it is a symbol of inspiration, attachment to one’s homeland and the success of hard work.”
Schröder, 32, took part in the school’s basketball development programme and was noticed as a special talent in 2004 at the age of 11.
Schröder captained Germany to a first world title in 2023 and to the European title two weeks ago. The Sacramento Kings player was named Most Valuable Player at both tournaments.
Braunschweig’s city council unanimously approved the renaming in September 2023 after the World Cup glory. It said that his success had made him an idol and role model for many people, especially children and young people.
A reception at Braunschweig’s city hall was scheduled for later Friday. He will attend Braunschweig’s basketball Bundesliga season opener on Saturday and present his children’s book on Sunday before returning to the US for NBA pre-season training with the Kings.
