The EuroBasket 2025 tournament has once again proven to be a crucible of unexpected triumphs and dramatic reversals. The quarter-final stage, often where the wheat is separated from the chaff, concluded with two thrilling encounters that saw Finland and Germany secure their spots in the coveted semifinals. Both nations, displaying a potent mix of strategic execution and unyielding resolve, overcame formidable opponents, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable final four.
Finland`s Historic Ascent: The Wolfpack`s Relentless Charge
In a performance that will undoubtedly be etched into their national basketball folklore, Finland`s national team, affectionately known as “The Wolfpack,” continued their remarkable run by defeating Georgia 93-79. This victory marks a historic first-time entry into the EuroBasket semifinals for Finland, a testament to their disciplined play and the undeniable talent of their roster.
While the spotlight often shines brightest on their NBA star, Lauri Markkanen, who contributed 17 points, it was a collective effort that truly distinguished their play. Markkanen, ever the composed leader, facilitated much of Finland`s offensive rhythm, but the day`s true revelation was Mikael Jantunen. The former Treviso forward exploded for 19 points, consistently punishing Georgia from beyond the arc. The Finns demonstrated an almost surgical precision in their shooting, hitting an astounding 67% from three-point range (10-of-15) in the first half alone, building a commanding 57-40 lead by the interval.
Georgia, led by the tenacious Mamukelashvili (22 points), attempted a spirited comeback in the second half, narrowing the deficit to single digits. However, their efforts were ultimately undermined by foul trouble and the subsequent ejections of key players Bitadze and Shengelia, disrupting their momentum at critical junctures. Finland, staying composed, then saw Valtonen step up with crucial plays reminiscent of his late-game heroics against Serbia, sealing their progression to the next round.
Key Players for Finland: Jantunen 19, Markkanen 17, Maxhuni 15
Key Players for Georgia: Mamukelashvili 22, Sanadze 19, Shengelia 18
Germany`s Resilient Rally: Overcoming a Doncic Masterclass
The second quarter-final delivered a spectacle of epic proportions, with Germany staging a breathtaking comeback to defeat Slovenia 99-91. This was a match that highlighted both individual brilliance and the formidable power of cohesive team play, especially when facing a generational talent like Luka Doncic.
Slovenia, propelled by an astonishing 39-point performance from their talisman, Luka Doncic, started strong. Doncic, a player capable of single-handedly altering the course of a game, was, by all accounts, in vintage form. However, even his prolific scoring proved insufficient against a German side that simply refused to yield. Germany gradually clawed their way back, exploiting Slovenia`s defensive vulnerabilities in containing the pick-and-roll.
The second half began ominously for Slovenia as Doncic quickly amassed four fouls, limiting his defensive aggression. Despite this, coach Sekulic`s squad admirably held their ground, navigating the challenges of their superstar`s restricted minutes. The turning point arrived with a flourish of audacity: Maodo Lo launched a half-court shot at the third-quarter buzzer, a seemingly improbable basket that miraculously swished through the net. This electrifying play ignited the German bench and crowd alike, injecting a palpable surge of momentum into their ranks.
The momentum continued its relentless shift as Obst followed up with an acrobatic three-pointer, further widening Germany`s lead. The Germans, now fully in control, closed out the game with clinical precision, courtesy of decisive plays from Franz Wagner (23 points) and the ever-dynamic Dennis Schroder (20 points), who together orchestrated the final push to victory. It was a performance that underscored Germany`s depth and tactical acumen, proving that in basketball, even a supernova sometimes needs a constellation.
Key Players for Germany: Wagner 23, Schroder 20, Theis 15
Key Players for Slovenia: Doncic 39, Prepelic 13, Hrovat 11
Looking Ahead: Semifinal Showdowns
With Finland and Germany securing their berths, the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals are now fully set. Finland will face Germany in what promises to be a battle of contrasting styles – Finland`s outside shooting and collective spirit against Germany`s resilient defense and explosive offense. The other semifinal will feature Greece against Turkey, ensuring a diverse and exciting final four. Basketball enthusiasts are now keenly awaiting these matchups, poised to witness who will ultimately contend for the prestigious European title.
