Georgia`s Tornike Shengelia (left) battles for possession against France`s Zaccharie Risacher during their stunning EuroBasket 2025 Round of 16 clash.
The EuroBasket 2025 Round of 16 has delivered a riveting blend of expected brilliance and astonishing upsets, shaking the tournament`s landscape to its core. While star players like Luka Dončić (who eliminated Italy, though details of that contest remain to be chronicled for another day) and Giannis Antetokounmpo showcased their undisputed class, the real narrative of this stage was the dramatic exit of pre-tournament favorites and the Cinderella stories of determined underdogs.
Following the unexpected departure of Nikola Jokić`s Serbia, another basketball titan has been sent packing prematurely: France, the reigning Olympic vice-champions and EuroBasket silver medalists, found themselves on the wrong side of a historic upset. This tournament, it seems, is intent on reminding everyone that past glories guarantee nothing in the relentless pursuit of European supremacy.
The French Fiasco: Georgia`s Historic Triumph
In perhaps the most significant shockwave of the tournament thus far, Georgia penned a glorious chapter in their basketball history by eliminating the mighty French squad with a decisive 80-70 victory. This wasn`t merely a win; it was a statement. Led by the inspirational performances of Tornike Shengelia and Thaddeus Baldwin, who each poured in 24 points, Georgia exhibited a masterclass in resilience and precision.
The Georgian duo, described as “heroic” in their efforts, orchestrated a near-perfect first half and maintained their composure through a tense finale. Baldwin, notably, delivered two crucial three-pointers late in the game, widening the margin and solidifying Georgia`s lead. For France, however, it was a performance marred by an astonishing lack of accuracy, particularly from beyond the arc. A dismal 6-of-36 (16.7%) from three-point range proved to be their Achilles` heel, a stark contrast to Georgia`s efficient 10-of-18 (55.6%) shooting. A late layup from Mamukelashvili with 12 seconds remaining was merely the exclamation point on a truly unforgettable Georgian celebration. The tournament, it appears, cares little for reputations when the shots aren`t falling.
Giannis`s Herculean Effort: Greece Advances
Across another court, some narratives unfolded exactly as anticipated, albeit with breathtaking individual flair. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the “Greek Freak,” provided a quintessential example of single-handed dominance, propelling Greece past Israel with an 84-79 victory. There are moments when Antetokounmpo appears to operate in a different dimension, and this game was one such occasion.
His stat line—a monstrous 37 points, 10 rebounds, and an incredible 18-of-21 from two-point range—speaks volumes. Israel`s defense, despite their best efforts and a commendable performance from Avdija (23 points), simply had no answer for the sheer force of nature that is Giannis. Such was his impact that only Kostas Sloukas joined him in double figures for Greece, underscoring Antetokounmpo`s unparalleled ability to carry his team to victory against formidable opposition. For Greece, it’s a clear strategy: if you have a demigod, let him lead.
Poland`s Gritty Comeback: The Unyielding Spirit
The Round of 16 also witnessed a testament to tenacity in the clash between Poland and Bosnia, where Poland clawed their way back from an early deficit to secure an 80-72 victory. Milicic`s squad, initially trailing by as much as 11 points due to strong play from Bosnia`s Nurkić and Roberson, steadily chipped away at the lead. The potent offensive talent of Jordan Loyd, who led all scorers with 28 points, alongside a solid double-double from Pontika (19 points, 11 rebounds), proved instrumental.
The turning point arrived late in the game with Roberson`s injury, which seemed to disrupt Bosnia`s rhythm. Poland capitalized, tightening their defense and executing better from the free-throw line in the closing minutes, ultimately sealing their pass to the quarter-finals. It`s a reminder that sometimes, sheer will and timely misfortune for your opponent are just as effective as superstar power.
The Quarter-Finals: A Tournament Redefined
With these dramatic contests now concluded, the stage is set for an exhilarating quarter-final round. The matchups promise further intrigue and potential upsets, reflecting the dynamic shifts witnessed in the Round of 16:
- Lithuania vs. Greece
- Turkey vs. Poland
- Germany vs. Slovenia
- Finland vs. Georgia
EuroBasket 2025 has already delivered on its promise of high-stakes basketball. The unexpected exits of established powers and the emergence of valiant contenders ensure that the journey to the final will be anything but predictable. Basketball purists and casual fans alike are in for a treat as this compelling tournament continues to unfold, proving that in the unpredictable world of European basketball, absolutely anything can happen.
