The FIBA EuroBasket 2025 quarterfinals in Riga, Latvia, delivered a night of compelling basketball, marking the triumphant return of two nations to the tournament`s coveted “Fab Four.” With standout performances from rising star Alperen Sengun and perennial MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo, Turkey and Greece secured their spots in the semifinals, setting the stage for a highly anticipated face-off.
Turkey`s Resurgence: Sengun`s Triple-Double for the Ages
The evening commenced with Turkey`s decisive 91-77 victory over a tenacious Polish squad, signaling Turkey`s first semifinal appearance since 2001. While the score suggests a comfortable win, the narrative was dominated by the incredible individual brilliance of Alperen Sengun. The young Houston Rockets center delivered a historic triple-double – 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists – becoming only the sixth player in EuroBasket history to achieve such a statistical feat. It was a masterclass in all-around play, demonstrating why he`s considered one of the sport`s most promising talents. Sengun`s vision and passing unlocked the Turkish offense, while his presence in the paint anchored their defense. Even with a combined 38 points from Poland`s Loyd and Ponitka, the Turkish defensive intensity, complemented by the timely contributions of Shane Larkin and others, proved insurmountable. One might say Sengun didn`t just lead his team; he practically charted a new course for Turkish basketball, with a compass calibrated for the semifinals.
Greek Goliaths: Antetokounmpo and Collective Grit
Following suit, Greece navigated a spirited challenge from Lithuania, securing an 87-76 win and ending a 16-year drought from the EuroBasket semifinals. As expected, Giannis Antetokounmpo was the architect of much of Greece`s success, delivering a commanding 29-point performance. His relentless attacks on the rim and defensive prowess were constants throughout the fiercely contested match. However, basketball, even for a “Greek Freak,” is rarely a solo act. The contributions of Toliopoulos, who tallied an impressive 17 points on efficient 6-of-8 shooting, were crucial, providing the offensive spark needed when Lithuania threatened to close the gap. Furthermore, Kostas Antetokounmpo`s defensive impact was significant, offering key stops and energy. For Lithuania, Jonas Valanciunas waged a valiant battle, pouring in 24 points, but even his heroic efforts, coupled with the absence of Jokubaitis, couldn`t overcome the deeper rotations and physical dominance of the Greek side. It seems the gods of Olympus were smiling upon Greece, but they certainly put in the work.
The Semifinal Spectacle: Turkey vs. Greece
With these pivotal victories, the stage is now set for a compelling semifinal clash between Turkey and Greece on Friday. This encounter promises to be a fascinating battle of rising stars against established legends, distinct playing styles, and a shared hunger for continental glory. Will Sengun continue his historic run and further cement his status as a global sensation, or will Giannis Antetokounmpo once again demonstrate why he is widely considered one of the best players in the world? Beyond the individual matchups, this game represents a culmination of renewed national pride and strategic brilliance from both coaching staffs. Basketball enthusiasts can anticipate a high-intensity affair, a true testament to the competitive spirit of EuroBasket 2025.
