Daniel Theis win gold after emotional, trying past year

Starting for Germany, Daniel Theis proudly helped his country win gold in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Daniel Theis at his locker with the World Cup trophy after winning with Germany (Photo: Daniel Theis)

It’s been a year for Daniel Theis.

An emotional roller coaster, highs and lows, disappointment followed by frustration, a vigorous rehab and then something historic.

Just look at the photo above of the 31-year-old center smiling proudly in front of his locker with the World Cup trophy firmly in his grasp. This was after a 83-77 win over Serbia in the FIBA Basketball World Cup championship game for Germany — a first for the country.

He started for the Germans as they completed an undefeated run through this tournament.

Following the title game and the many photos that he shared, I couldn’t help but think about all that he’s endured professionally over the last 12 months.