The much-anticipated EuroBasket 2025 has officially tipped off, and if the opening day is any indication, the path to the trophy will run directly through the established titans of European basketball. From dominant displays to nail-biting finishes, the tournament wasted no time in delivering compelling narratives and showcasing top-tier talent.
Favorites Assert Dominance: Germany and Serbia Set the Tone
As widely predicted, the tournament`s top contenders, Germany and Serbia, wasted no time in asserting their authority. Both nations delivered resounding victories, signaling their serious intent for the coveted title.
Germany, demonstrating an offensive prowess that left Montenegro reeling, secured a commanding 106-76 victory. The dynamic duo of Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner combined for an impressive 43 points, dismantling their opponents with surgical precision. Perimeter shooting, particularly from Andreas Obst who notched 5-of-6 from beyond the arc, further solidified Germany`s offensive firepower. This was less a game and more a statement: Germany means business.
Not to be outdone, Serbia, led by the incomparable Nikola Jokic, swept aside Estonia with a dominant 98-64 performance. Jokic, seemingly just warming up, flirted with a triple-double, recording 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. It`s almost ironic how effortlessly he orchestrates the game, proving that even on an “off-day” by his astronomical standards, he`s still a statistical anomaly and the undeniable heartbeat of his team. Serbia`s comprehensive victory solidified their status as a formidable contender.
Group A: Gritty Wins and Serbian Swagger
Riga played host to the Group A clashes, which offered a blend of methodical victories and showcase performances.
- Portugal vs. Czech Republic: Portugal kicked off the group stage with a workmanlike 62-50 win over the Czech Republic. The game was largely dictated by the sheer physical dominance of Neemias Queta, who finished with an impressive 23 points on 73% shooting and a staggering 18 rebounds. His performance was a clear testament to physical prowess dictating outcomes.
- Turkey vs. Latvia: In a less favorable debut for coach Banchi`s Latvia, Turkey delivered a convincing 93-73 defeat. Turkey`s cohesive performance saw them pull away in the second half, with Cedi Osman leading the charge with 20 points (60% shooting). Alperen Şengün showcased his all-around game, contributing 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Latvia will certainly be looking for a quick recalibration after this opening setback.
- Serbia vs. Estonia: As previously noted, Serbia`s efficiency and star power were too much for Estonia, who were effectively neutralized by halftime. This contest further cemented Serbia`s position as a heavy favorite in the group.
Group B: Defensive Clinics and Nordic Thrills
Tampere witnessed its share of action, ranging from defensive masterclasses to the day`s most fiercely contested battle.
- Lithuania vs. Great Britain: Lithuania opened their campaign with a decisive 94-70 victory over Great Britain. Jonas Valančiūnas spearheaded the effort with 18 points and 9 rebounds. What truly stood out, however, was Lithuania`s defensive clinic, limiting the British to a mere 33% shooting from the field and dominating the boards with a 57-31 rebound advantage. Holding an opponent to such low efficiency is less about luck and more about strategic execution.
- Germany vs. Montenegro: Germany`s offensive explosion, as detailed above, was a highlight of Group B, demonstrating their depth and coordinated attack. The duo of Schröder and Wagner, supported by Obst`s perimeter threats, proved unstoppable.
- Finland vs. Sweden: The most thrilling encounter of the day saw Nordic rivals Finland and Sweden engage in a tightly contested match, with Finland ultimately snatching a narrow 93-90 victory. Lauri Markkanen, representing Utah, poured in 28 points for the Finns. However, Sweden`s Ludvig Håkanson matched that output with 28 of his own. Despite Håkanson`s valiant effort, the Swedes were left to rue a late, missed opportunity to tie the game from beyond the arc, underscoring the razor-thin margins in elite basketball.
As the dust settles on Day One of EuroBasket 2025, the narrative is clear: the favorites are here to play, and the competition is already intense. With Germany and Serbia making strong early statements, and other contenders showing flashes of brilliance, the stage is set for a captivating tournament. All eyes now turn to tonight`s highly anticipated debut of Italy against Greece, promising another chapter in this unfolding European basketball saga.
