Dennis Schröder and Evan Fournier were involved in a heated altercation during an international friendly between France and Germany, with Fournier being ejected for placing his hands around Schröder's throat. The incident has raised tensions ahead of the upcoming Olympics, where the two teams will face off in Group B.
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International Friendly Turns Ugly: Schröder and Fournier Get Physical
With just over two minutes remaining in the second quarter of an international friendly between France and Germany, tensions flared as Dennis Schröder and Evan Fournier engaged in a physical altercation. Schröder, who plays for the Brooklyn Nets, drove towards the basket and was fouled by Fournier, a free agent who spent last season with the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons.
Schröder took exception to the foul and quickly approached Fournier with some words. Fournier, however, retaliated almost immediately by placing his hands around Schröder's throat. The two were quickly separated, and Fournier was ejected for his actions.
International Friendly Turns Ugly: Schröder and Fournier Get Physical
The incident sent shockwaves through the arena and raised concerns about the level of animosity between the two teams ahead of the upcoming Olympics. Both France and Germany are placed in Group B along with Japan and the winner of an Olympic qualifying tournament, meaning they will face each other on August 2nd.
Germany boasts an impressive roster featuring Franz and Moritz Wagner of the Orlando Magic and Daniel Theis of the Los Angeles Clippers. Franz Wagner recently signed a lucrative $229 million contract with the Magic. France, on the other hand, is fielding a formidable team led by reigning Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama and Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert.
International Friendly Turns Ugly: Schröder and Fournier Get Physical
Prior to the altercation, Fournier had been a key contributor for France, averaging 13 points per game in their previous three exhibitions. Schröder, meanwhile, had been a steady presence for Germany, averaging 10 points and 4 assists.
The incident has cast a shadow over the upcoming Olympics, where basketball competition begins on July 27th. The men's gold medal game is scheduled for August 10th. The physicality and intensity displayed in the friendly between France and Germany suggest that the Olympic tournament will be highly competitive and potentially filled with heated moments.
France and Germany will have the opportunity to settle their differences on the court when they meet in Group B play on August 2nd. The outcome of that game will have significant implications for both teams' chances of advancing to the medal round.
The altercation between Schröder and Fournier is a reminder of the intense rivalries that exist in international basketball. With the Olympics just around the corner, tensions are sure to run high as teams compete for the ultimate prize. Fans can expect passionate and physical play throughout the tournament, with each game having the potential to produce thrilling upsets and unforgettable moments.
