Patryk Stachowiak
RIGA — The “12 Giant Men” of Türkiye delivered another statement performance at EuroBasket 2025, defeating Sweden 85–79 to secure their spot in the quarterfinals. With this win, Türkiye stretched their unbeaten run to six games and reaffirmed their status as genuine title contenders.
From Flat Start to Furious Finish
Despite coming in as clear favorites after a flawless 5–0 group stage, Türkiye stumbled out of the gates. Sweden capitalized early, leading 23–20 after the first quarter and carrying that momentum into halftime with a 42–37 edge.
But it all changed in the third quarter. Türkiye roared back, fueled by interior dominance from Alperen Şengün and perimeter fire from Cedi Osman. The Turks outscored Sweden 26–13 in the third, flipping the script and tightening their grip on the game.
Şengün Shines Again
Alperen Şengün was unstoppable. The Houston Rockets star notched a 24-point, 16-rebound, 6-assist masterclass, controlling the paint on both ends. Osman chipped in 17 points, while Ercan Osmani added 14 points and 9 boards. Off the bench, Şehmus Hazer made his mark with 11 points and relentless hustle.
Turkiye Sweden. Source: eurohoops.net
Sweden, meanwhile, found sparks in Ludvig Håkanson (16 points) and Viktor Gaddefors (15), but couldn’t match Türkiye’s intensity down the stretch.
Coach Ataman Blasts FIBA Over Scheduling
Post-game, head coach Ergin Ataman didn’t hold back. He slammed FIBA’s scheduling decision that handed Türkiye a morning tip-off despite topping their group. “You don’t ask a team with five wins to play at 11 AM. It disrupts rhythm, preparation, and recovery,” Ataman stated.
He credited his squad’s experience and mental toughness for overcoming the logistical hurdle, admitting that he feared the odd timing could have cost them dearly.
Key Stats Breakdown
| Category | Türkiye | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 39% | 46% |
| Total Rebounds | 45 | 33 |
| Offensive Rebounds | 18 | 7 |
| Assists | 16 | 22 |
| Blocks | 9 | 5 |
What’s Next?
Türkiye marches into the quarterfinals, where they’ll face the winner of the Poland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina clash. Two more wins could place them in the medal rounds — a milestone that would be a fitting reward for this squad’s resilience and star power.
Can Türkiye go all the way? With Şengün in MVP form and Ataman pulling tactical strings, betting against them is looking riskier by the game.