The EuroBasket 2025 group stage is rapidly shedding its preliminary skin, revealing the true contenders and delivering a few eyebrow-raising moments along the way. As the final round of fixtures approaches, the path to the coveted Round of 16 has become clearer for several nations, marked by unexpected defeats and the undeniable brilliance of some of the continent`s brightest stars.
Greek Tragedy in Group C: Bosnia Delivers a Shock
Perhaps the most significant development of the latest match day came from Group C, where Bosnia-Herzegovina pulled off a stunning 80-77 victory over Greece. The Hellenic giants, typically a force to be reckoned with on the European stage, found themselves hobbled by the absence of reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, sidelined with a knee issue, and the equally missed Larentzakis due to a back injury. One might argue that the absence of a generational talent like Giannis makes any upset less “shocking,” but a win against a powerhouse like Greece is always noteworthy, especially one that opens up the top spot in the group.
Bosnia`s triumph wasn`t merely a gift; it was earned through a tenacious performance, epitomized by Jusuf Nurkic`s commanding 18 points and 10 rebounds. Their decisive 18-0 run in the second quarter completely flipped the script, leaving Greece`s 15 points from Sloukas as little more than a footnote in an unexpected defeat. This result throws Group C wide open, creating an intriguing scramble for final positions. Meanwhile, Georgia efficiently dispatched Cyprus 91-63, with Shengelia (27 points) and Bitadze (21 points) leading the charge, securing their own passage to the next stage with a dominant display.
Group D`s Dominators: Slovenia, Israel, and France Punch Their Tickets
Over in Katowice, Group D provided its own set of compelling narratives as Israel, Slovenia, and France firmly secured their places in the Round of 16. Poland, despite a valiant effort and a loss to France, also made it through, setting the stage for a tense final day to determine seeding and bragging rights.
Avdija Lights Up for Israel`s Return
Israel`s long-awaited return to the Round of 16 after a decade-long hiatus was celebrated with a hard-fought 92-89 victory over Belgium. Deni Avdija, the rising NBA talent, was instrumental, pouring in 22 points, ably supported by Ginat`s 13. This performance underscores Israel`s potential and marks them as a team to watch in the knockout rounds, having proven they can win under pressure.
Doncic Does Doncic Things for Slovenia
For Slovenia, it was business as usual, with Luka Doncic once again demonstrating why he`s considered one of the world`s best. His 26 points spearheaded an 87-79 win against Iceland, effectively ending their tournament hopes. A crucial 11-2 run in the second half showcased Slovenia`s ability to pull away when it matters most, a trait often attributed to Doncic`s singular brilliance and leadership. Opponents know what`s coming, but stopping it is an entirely different matter.
Yabusele`s Masterclass Secures French Victory
France, a perennial contender and a team brimming with talent, flexed its muscles against Poland, winning 83-76. The undisputed star of the show was Guerschon Yabusele, who delivered a monstrous 36-point performance that single-handedly ensured the French victory. Despite a combined 34 points from Poland`s Loyd and Ponitka, they simply couldn`t withstand Yabusele`s onslaught. Poland`s qualification alongside France makes their final group match all about securing a more favorable bracket position in the fiercely competitive knockout stage.
What`s Next: The Final Push for Seeding
With several nations now confirmed for the knockout stage, the focus shifts to Thursday`s final group fixtures. These matches, while determining no more qualifications for some, will be crucial for securing favorable seeding in the Round of 16. The delicate balance of avoiding stronger opponents in the initial knockout rounds will drive the intensity, promising more thrilling basketball as EuroBasket 2025 heats up. As the dust settles on the initial group stage skirmishes, one thing is clear: expect the unexpected, and always bet on the stars to shine brightest under the EuroBasket spotlight.
