Schröder’s thoughts on NBA versus European basketball
“European basketball is not just about entertainment, it’s straight IQ basketball, straight coaching,” Schröder was quoted as saying after Germany’s 93-83 defeat to Serbiain the bronze medal game. “Really, really high IQ guys who know how to play the game. Serbia, Greece, Spain, France, Germany, so many teams out there who know how to play, and I think there’s a lot of people from Europe in the NBA who make some noise”.
Apparently those words did not please Kevin Durant, the United States forward, who after winning gold in the final against the host of the Games, France, uploaded a tweet in response, or so it seems, to Schröder’s words:
Durant’s post says everything you need to know about his personality, says Schröder
It didn’t take long for the German to hit back in response, defining Durant as someone with a “weak personality” after the latter’s cryptic message.
In a dramatic turn of events in the NBA world, Dennis Schröder, the German-born point guard and current captain of the Toronto Raptors, has made headlines for his pointed comments about NBA superstar Kevin Durant. Known for his quick handles and aggressive style on the court, Schröder has now found himself in the spotlight for a very different reason—his bold words off the court.
Kevin Durant, one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, is no stranger to controversy. Over the years, his decisions, such as leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder to join the Golden State Warriors and, more recently, his move to the Phoenix Suns, have sparked debates about loyalty, competitiveness, and the structure of NBA super teams. Durant’s sensitivity to criticism, particularly on social media, has also become part of his public persona, with the superstar often responding directly to fans and analysts.
Schröder, meanwhile, has built his reputation as a gritty and tenacious player who isn’t afraid to speak his mind. His outspoken nature has sometimes rubbed people the wrong way, but it has also made him a respected leader and a key figure in whatever team he represents. However, Schröder’s latest comments about Durant have sent shockwaves through the league, leaving fans and analysts.
During a recent interview after a Raptors practice session, Schröder was asked about the current state of the NBA and the growing trend of star players demanding trades and forming super teams. Schröder, never one to shy away from voicing his opinion, used the opportunity to take a direct shot at Durant.
“Kevin Durant? He’s a great player, no doubt. But let’s be honest he’s never really had to grind for anything,” Schröder said. “Every time things get tough, he runs to another team. First, it was OKC, then the Warriors, and now the Suns. Where’s the loyalty? Where’s the fight to build something of your own? He’s always chasing rings the easy way.”
Schröder didn’t stop there. He also questioned Durant’s leadership, suggesting that Durant’s multiple moves across teams show a lack of commitment and the inability to carry a franchise to success on his own terms. “Leaders stick it out. They build from the ground up. What’s he building by jumping from team to team? He’s a follower, not a leader.”
Schröder’s comments immediately set off a firestorm across social media, with fans, players, and analysts weighing in. Durant, known for his active presence on Twitter, has yet to respond publicly, but many expect him to address the comments soon, either directly or indirectly.
Some fans supported Schröder’s remarks, arguing that Durant’s career has been defined by seeking easier paths to championships rather than fighting through adversity with a single franchise. These critics point to Durant’s decision to join a 73-win Golden State Warriors team in 2016 as the pinnacle of “ring chasing,” a move that many felt undermined the competitive balance of the league.
Others, however, came to Durant’s defense, pointing out that his moves have been strategic, calculated decisions to put himself in the best position to win championships. Supporters argue that Durant’s talent and hard work should not be diminished simply because he’s chosen to play for different teams throughout his career. After all, the NBA is a business, and players, just like teams, have the right to make decisions that best suit their careers.
For Schröder, the fallout from these comments could have significant implications. Known for his tenacity on the court, Schröder has cultivated an image as a hard-nosed competitor who isn’t afraid to get under opponents’ skin. However, publicly challenging one of the league’s biggest stars in such a direct manner could create tension both within his own team and across the league.
The Raptors organization has yet to make a formal statement, but it’s possible that Schröder’s comments could cause friction in the locker room, particularly among teammates who have close relationships with Durant. Additionally, as the season progresses, Schröder may find himself facing extra scrutiny and pressure, especially in games against Durant’s teams.
The NBA has always been a league where rivalries and personal conflicts add an extra layer of excitement to the game. Schröder’s comments have certainly set the stage for heightened tension in future matchups between the Raptors and the Suns. Fans will be eager to see if Durant responds, either on social media or, more importantly, on the court.
For now, Dennis Schröder has thrust himself into the middle of a major NBA storyline, and only time will tell how this controversy will impact his season, his reputation, and his standing in the league. One thing is for certain the next Raptors-Suns game just became must-watch television.