If the group stage of EuroBasket 2025 were a theatrical production, the final acts of Groups A and B would certainly earn a standing ovation. As the dust settled on the penultimate day, Europe`s basketball landscape was reshaped, revealing dominant forces, celebrating historic triumphs, and witnessing a few heart-wrenching goodbyes. While some teams packed their bags for an early exit, others punched their tickets to the knockout rounds, often by the slimmest of margins, proving that in basketball, every possession, every rebound, and indeed, every point differential, truly matters.
Group A: A Turkish Delight and Portuguese Perseverance
The battle for supremacy in Group A culminated in a marquee clash between Turkey and Serbia. In a highly anticipated showdown, Turkey emerged victorious with a commanding 95-90 win, seizing the top spot. The spotlight, surprisingly, wasn`t solely on Serbian superstar Nikola Jokic. Instead, it was Houston Rockets` center Alperen Sengun who delivered a masterclass, outplaying his more decorated counterpart. Sengun`s stat line – a formidable 28 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists – capped off with crucial free throws and a game-sealing defensive stop, underscored his pivotal role in Turkey`s unbeaten run. Coach Ataman`s men look like a serious contender.
Meanwhile, history was being written a few courts away. Portugal, against all odds, secured their first-ever qualification for the EuroBasket knockout rounds. Their dramatic 68-65 comeback victory over Estonia was a testament to their resilience. A clutch, long-range three-pointer from Lisboa in the dying seconds, followed by a moment of defensive brilliance from Queiroz, sealed their fairy-tale progression. It`s a reminder that passion and strategic plays can often overcome raw talent.
Rounding out the qualifiers from Group A, Latvia demonstrated their offensive prowess by steamrolling the Czech Republic 109-75. Led by the dynamic Bertans brothers, who collectively poured in 40 points, Latvia showed they are not to be underestimated. Estonia and the Czech Republic, unfortunately, saw their EuroBasket journey conclude.
Group A Standings:
- Turkey: (5-0)
- Serbia: (4-1)
- Latvia: (3-2)
- Portugal: (2-3)
- Estonia: (1-4, Eliminated)
- Czech Republic: (0-5, Eliminated)
Group B: German Efficiency and a Swedish Surprise
Over in Group B, Germany continued their flawless campaign, asserting their dominance with a perfect 5-0 record. Their crushing 91-61 victory over Finland, highlighted by a spectacular 23-point, 7-rebound performance from Franz Wagner, cemented their status as a formidable contender. The German machine appears incredibly well-oiled, firing on all cylinders as they head into the knockout stage.
The narrative of Group B, however, also included a significant upset and a narrow escape. Montenegro, despite a Herculean effort from Nikola Vucevic (31 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists), shockingly crashed out of the tournament. Their 83-89 loss to Great Britain proved to be their undoing, a bitter pill to swallow after such individual brilliance. It highlights the brutal reality of tournament basketball: one star cannot always carry a team, and every point counts.
Benefiting from Montenegro`s stumble, Sweden managed to sneak into the Round of 16. Despite a narrow 71-74 loss to Lithuania, featuring a strong showing from Valanciunas, Sweden`s superior point differential over Montenegro secured their unexpected qualification. It was a stark reminder of the intricate rules that govern progression, turning what looked like a defeat into a triumph. Finland, despite their loss to Germany, also advanced, while Great Britain, despite their win, finished their campaign.
Group B Standings:
- Germany: (5-0)
- Lithuania: (4-1)
- Finland: (3-2)
- Sweden: (1-4)
- Montenegro: (1-4, Eliminated)
- Great Britain: (1-4, Eliminated)
The Road Ahead: Stakes Rise
With the group stages now largely concluded for these teams, the focus shifts entirely to the intensity of the knockout rounds. The impressive runs of Turkey and Germany, both finishing undefeated, send a clear message: they are here to contend for the ultimate prize. Portugal`s historic advancement and Sweden`s cunning escape add layers of intrigue, promising a diverse and unpredictable set of matchups.
The EuroBasket 2025 continues to deliver high-stakes drama, unexpected heroes, and the relentless pursuit of continental glory. As the remaining groups wrap up and the bracket solidifies, basketball fans across Europe and beyond are bracing for a thrilling conclusion to what has already been an unforgettable tournament. Who will rise, and who will falter under the ultimate pressure? Only time will tell.
