Dennis Schröder has found a new NBA home, and during his official introduction as the Sacramento Kings’ starting point guard, the German national team captain made it clear just how much the opportunity means to him.
In his introductory press conference, the 31-year-old spoke about his role, his gratitude for the organization’s belief in him, and his ambitions for the upcoming season.
“To be a starter in the NBA, you can’t ask for more,” Schröder told reporters. “I don’t want to disrespect my previous teams, but I haven’t had this kind of trust from an organization in recent years.”
After playing for three different teams last season: the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, and Detroit Pistons, Schröder was acquired by Sacramento in a sign-and-trade deal.
He signed a three-year, $45 million contract and is expected to take over as the Kings’ starting point guard following De’Aaron Fox’s trade to the San Antonio Spurs in February. General manager Scott Perry praised Schröder as “not just a great basketball player, but the kind of person we want in this organization.” Perry called Schröder the “catalyst” for the team’s new identity.
Schröder, smiling but focused, made his intentions clear:
“I want to make sure my new teammates and I kick everyone’s ass,” he said with a grin.
He’ll be joining a talented core that includes Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine, players hungry to bounce back after a disappointing Play-In loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
Beyond basketball, Schröder emphasized his desire to shape the team’s culture and be a vocal leader.
“I see myself as someone who can help define the culture and be a voice in the locker room,” he said.
After more than a decade in the NBA and ten different stops, Sacramento may finally be the place where Schröder settles in.
Whether the Kings can take the next step remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the 2023 World Cup champion is ready to lead, and Sacramento is ready to follow.
