Dennis Schröder was the target of racial abuse from fans during Germany’s 107-88 win over Lithuania on Saturday in Tampere, Finland. The German Basketball Association said two fans were identified and ejected from the game, with another identified on video by FIBA and banned from all future 2025 EuroBasket games.
Schröder told reporters after the game that the fans made monkey noises at him as he was walking into the locker room at halftime.
“Making monkey noises, that’s something I don’t respect,” Schröder said in German. “No matter what status, insults, that’s all fine. But racism simply doesn’t belong in this sport. That’s something that’s not OK.”
FIBA released a statement condemning the actions and also said they would speak with the Lithuanian basketball federation about the incident.
“FIBA unequivocally condemns hate speech, discriminatory conduct and racist language in any form. Creating an inclusive, respectful and safe environment for players, teams, and fans remains a fundamental priority of our sport. FIBA has provided the relevant footage and information to local law enforcement authorities, who are continuing to investigate the matter.”
Schröder led all scorers with 26 points in the Germany win, adding six assists and three rebounds, as the German national team booked their place in the knockout rounds of EuroBasket with a 3-0 record in the group stage so far. The German squad will play two more games in the group stage, with fellow undefeated Finland and a winless Great Britain still on their schedule before the knockout rounds begin.
