The EuroBasket 2025 group stage has entered a decisive phase, with the fourth day of competition revealing the tournament`s early frontrunners and showcasing some truly spectacular individual performances. As the dust settles on a flurry of high-stakes matchups, several nations have punched their tickets to the coveted Round of 16, while others find themselves in a more precarious position, facing do-or-die scenarios.
Basketball purists will nod knowingly; the early rounds of any major tournament are often a delightful blend of predictable dominance and unexpected grit. This year`s EuroBasket is no exception, with established powers flexing their formidable muscles and rising stars seizing their moment in the continental spotlight.
Jokic`s Unstoppable Force Propels Serbia
Nikola Jokic delivering a career-high performance for Serbia.
Leading the charge was none other than Nikola Jokic, the Serbian maestro whose individual brilliance continues to defy the laws of probability. In a thrilling encounter against Latvia, Jokic delivered a career-high 39 points for his national team, complemented by 10 rebounds. This Herculean effort powered Serbia to an 84-80 victory, securing their unblemished record and an early berth in the Round of 16. It`s safe to say that with Jokic in this form, Serbia is not just participating; they are making a statement.
Joining Serbia from Group A is Turkey, who made short work of Portugal with a resounding 95-54 win. Alperen Sengun was particularly impressive, leading his team to a comfortable qualification and signaling Turkey`s intent to be a serious contender.
German Efficiency Meets Finnish Firepower
Germany`s dominant performance against Lithuania.
Group B saw the reigning world champions, Germany, continue their impressive run, dismantling Lithuania 107-88. Franz Wagner, Dennis Schröder, and Daniel Theis each surpassed the 20-point mark, showcasing a balanced and devastating offensive attack. Theis, in particular, was flawless from the field, leading to a rather casual qualification for the Germans. One might even suggest they made it look a bit too easy, much to the chagrin of their Lithuanian opponents.
Also advancing from Group B is Finland, spearheaded by the dynamic Lauri Markkanen. His double-double performance of 26 points and 13 rebounds was instrumental in their 85-65 triumph over Montenegro, proving that Finland is far more than a one-man show, but Markkanen remains the dazzling centerpiece.
Doncic`s Magic Not Enough Against Resilient France
Luka Doncic`s individual brilliance was a spectacle, but France proved too strong.
The day`s most captivating storyline unfolded in Group D, where Luka Doncic delivered another masterclass for Slovenia. His stat line of 39 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists was nothing short of prodigious, yet it wasn`t enough to overcome a determined France. The Olympic vice-champions, with Sylvain Francisco leading the scoring with 32 points alongside Okobo, weathered Doncic`s storm and closed out a hard-fought 103-95 victory. While Luka Doncic continues to prove that one man can indeed be a force of nature, even forces of nature sometimes meet an unyielding French defense and a balanced offensive attack. The basketball gods, it seems, appreciate teamwork.
Spain Finds Its Rhythm, Other Teams Make Their Mark
Meanwhile, in Group C, Spain, the `Furias Roja`, finally hit their stride. After a cautious start to the tournament, they secured a convincing 88-67 win over Bosnia, with Aldama leading the scoring with 19 points. Perhaps they were just enjoying the scenery before deciding it was time to join the party.
Other notable outcomes included:
- Greece cruised to a 96-69 victory against Cyprus, notably resting Giannis Antetokounmpo, demonstrating their depth.
- Poland secured a nail-biting 66-64 win over Israel, thanks to a stellar 27-point performance from Jordan Loyd.
- Estonia claimed their first victory of the tournament, beating the Czech Republic 89-75.
- Sweden also registered their maiden win, overcoming Great Britain 78-59.
- Belgium orchestrated an impressive comeback against Iceland, triumphing 71-64 in a strong fourth quarter.
Looking Ahead: The Knockout Stage Beckons
With several teams now officially through to the Round of 16, the complexion of EuroBasket 2025 is rapidly shifting. The group stage, often a battle of attrition and strategic maneuvering, is giving way to the high-stakes drama of the knockout rounds. The performances of stars like Jokic and Markkanen, coupled with the methodical power of teams like Germany and the resilient spirit of France, promise an exhilarating continuation of the tournament. As teams fine-tune their strategies and nurse their players, basketball fans across Europe can anticipate a thrilling path to the championship.
