Theis looking forward to June/July Qualifiers, bright future for Germany

BOSTON (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers) - Germany were the youngest team at FIBA EuroBasket 2017. But by reaching the Quarter-Finals, they showed the country has plenty of potential for the future - one that Daniel Theis sees as bright. 

The 25-year-old is eager to play in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers in June and July 2018 after averaging 10.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 0.7 blocks at EuroBasket, where the Germans registered their first top eight finish since 2011.

The 6ft 8in (2.03m) power forward was one of eight Germans 25 years or younger.

"I really enjoyed last summer and learned a lot. I was very comfortable having some responsibilities and even if we lost to Spain (in the Quarter-Finals), we grew up as a team and as a group of players," said Theis, who was playing in his first FIBA EuroBasket.

"Our roster was pretty young, and gaining experience is key during this kind of competition. So it was definitely a great experience for my teammates and myself."

"WE HAVE A LOT OF YOUNG GUYS GAINING EXPERIENCE AND THAT CAN GET INTO THE SENIOR NATIONAL TEAM VERY SOON" TheisTheis

One of the biggest victories came in the Round of 16 where Theis and Co knocked off France.

"We beat one of the best teams of the competition and we played very well as a team. Everybody had an amazing game and we had an impressive defensive performance," said Theis, who had 22 points and 6 rebounds, including a big dunk on French captain Boris Diaw. "We knew that we could play very well and that we have talent, and we stepped up our game when we had to."

Theis rode that strong continental championship showing and has enjoyed a strong rookie NBA season with Boston Celtics, averaging 4.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 12 minutes through the first 30 games.

"I am just a player that likes to be competitive and put all my energy on the court for the team," Theis said. "I had that role in Europe and I have the same here in the NBA - play for my teammates, rebound the ball, play hard on defense, which is what I like the most. I am a team player and I enjoy that role."