The highly anticipated EuroBasket 2025 has officially tipped off, and if the first day is any indication, we are in for a spectacle of elite European basketball. As the continent`s giants gathered, two formidable contenders, Germany and Serbia, wasted no time in asserting their dominance, setting a high bar for the competition ahead. Their convincing victories sent a clear message: the favorites are here to play, and they mean business. Meanwhile, the basketball world keenly awaits tonight`s debut of Italy as they face a formidable Greece squad.
Germany`s Unstoppable Momentum in Group B
In Tampere, Germany delivered a performance that left little doubt about their championship aspirations, dismantling Montenegro with a commanding 106-76 victory. It seems the Germans aren`t just efficient on the autobahn; their basketball team moves with similar purpose and precision on the court. The dynamic duo of Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner combined for an impressive 43 points, orchestrating an offensive clinic. Their third-quarter surge, powered by the sharp-shooting Andreas Obst (who drained 5 of 6 three-pointers), effectively shattered Montenegro`s resistance. This was a statement win, signaling that Germany is a force to be reckoned with.
Another highlight from Group B saw Lithuania open their campaign with a decisive 94-70 win over Great Britain. Led by the interior presence of Jonas Valančiūnas (18 points, 9 rebounds), Lithuania showcased a defensive masterclass, holding the British to a mere 33% from the field and dominating the boards with a 57-31 rebounding advantage. The only tightly contested game in this group was between Sweden and Finland, where Lauri Markkanen and his Finnish squad edged out Sweden 93-90. Both Markkanen and Sweden`s Hakanson poured in 28 points, but in the end, Finland`s composure secured the narrow victory, leaving Sweden`s Pantzar agonizingly close to a game-tying three-pointer.
Serbia`s Dominance and Jokic`s Effortless Brilliance in Group A
Over in Riga, Serbia lived up to their billing as tournament favorites, effortlessly sweeping aside Estonia with a 98-64 triumph. At the heart of this Serbian juggernaut was, predictably, Nikola Jokic. The reigning NBA Finals MVP flirted with a triple-double, tallying 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists with his characteristic ease. Jokic, ever the statistical chameleon, seems to collect rebounds and assists as effortlessly as others collect lint. The game was effectively decided by halftime, a stark reminder of why Coach Pesic`s squad is widely tipped for the ultimate prize.
Group A also witnessed some compelling early action. Portugal secured a surprising 62-50 win against the Czech Republic, with Neemias Queta proving to be an unstoppable physical presence, recording 23 points and 18 rebounds. His dominance was key to the Portuguese maintaining control throughout the game. Meanwhile, Turkey delivered a strong performance against Latvia, winning 93-73. The Turkish team, in excellent form, saw Cedi Osman net 20 points (60% shooting) and Alperen Şengün contribute a versatile 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, showcasing their balanced attack both inside and out.
What`s Next? Italy`s Moment in the Spotlight
As the dust settles on an electrifying opening day, all eyes now turn to tonight`s highly anticipated fixture: Italy vs. Greece. The Azzurri face a monumental challenge against a Greek team undoubtedly spearheaded by the “Greek Freak” himself, Giannis Antetokounmpo. This promises to be a true test for Italy and a potential early indicator of their tournament trajectory.
The first day of EuroBasket 2025 has provided a clear picture: the top contenders are fit, focused, and firing on all cylinders. While Germany and Serbia made strong statements, the tournament is still young, and upsets, close finishes, and individual brilliance are surely waiting around every corner. Basketball fans across Europe are in for a treat.
