Patryk Stachowiak
EuroBasket 2025 delivered drama, upsets, and star performances on Wednesday — none more thrilling than Britain’s stunning 89–83 victory over Montenegro, marking their first win in the competition in over a decade.
Britain Ends 12-Year EuroBasket Drought
Myles Hesson powered Britain with 25 points and seven rebounds, finally putting an end to a 12-year dry spell at the tournament. Alongside him, Akwasi Yeboah dropped 23 points in a fiery Group B clash that saw Britain eliminate Montenegro from knockout contention.
Despite the loss, Chicago Bulls centre Nikola Vučević delivered a monster performance — 31 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. But Montenegro’s 18 turnovers proved fatal. “They were more aggressive and throughout the game, they did more to win,” Vučević admitted post-match.
With both sides now out of the tournament, the real beneficiary was Sweden, who advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time despite a narrow 74–71 defeat to Lithuania. They’ll be joined by Germany, Finland, and Lithuania as Group B’s qualifiers.
The knockout phase kicks off this Saturday in Riga, Latvia.
Portugal Survive Without Queta, Advance from Group A
Portugal clawed their way to a crucial 68–65 win over Estonia, sealing a spot in the last 16 despite a dramatic twist: Boston Celtics big man Neemias Queta was ejected with 4:34 left in the third quarter after picking up two technical fouls.
At that point, Portugal led by just one. But guard Rafael Lisboa rose to the occasion. He hit a clutch three with under a minute left to tie the game and sealed the deal with four free throws, finishing with 17 points and five assists.
Portugal’s reward? A knockout showdown with Germany on Saturday.
Latvia Dominate at Home, Face Lithuania Next
With Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs in attendance, the home crowd erupted as Latvia dismantled the Czech Republic 109–75 in their final group match.
The Bertans brothers, Davis and Dairis, each scored 20 points, while Kristaps Porziņģis added 16 points and seven rebounds. The hosts now prepare for a fierce Baltic battle against Lithuania in the last 16.
Sengun Stars as Turkey Beat Serbia for Group A Crown
Turkey emerged as Group A winners with a statement 95–90 win over fellow unbeaten side Serbia — and it was Alperen Sengun who stole the show.
The Houston Rockets centre posted a dominant 28 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists. His impact was undeniable, especially in the final minute where Turkey sank six crucial free throws. Sengun himself hit two with 41 seconds remaining to give Turkey the lead for good. Shane Larkin and Sengun iced the game from the line.
Serbia’s Nikola Jokić finished with 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals — a typically efficient outing, but not enough to prevent Turkey from taking the top spot.
Up next: Turkey will face Sweden, while Serbia matches up against Finland on Saturday.
🏀 Looking Ahead
With the group stage wrapped up, Saturday’s knockout clashes are set to deliver even more drama. Will Turkey’s inside dominance carry them deeper into the tournament? Can Britain’s surprise win spark a new chapter? And how will Sweden fare on their historic debut in the knockout rounds?
Stay locked in for tactical breakdowns, odds movement, and betting edge analysis as EuroBasket 2025 enters the decisive stage.