Türkiye is back in the FIBA EuroBasket Finals for the first time since 2001, with world champions Germany standing as the final hurdle in their pursuit of a maiden championship.
After 24 years of anticipation, Türkiye made sure nothing could stand in their way — even Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece.
Ercan Osmani unloaded 28 points as Türkiye destroyed the Greeks, 94-68, to barge into the FIBA EuroBasket Finals for the first time since 2001.
Cedi Osman added 17 while Alperen Sengun finished with 15 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists in another masterful performance.
Only the world champions Germany stood between Türkiye and their historic first title in the competition.
Head coach Ergin Ataman and his squad dominated early, scoring the game’s first seven points and ending the first quarter with a comfortable 26-16 lead.
After Giannis Antetokounmpo’s basket trimmed the lead to 24-33, Türkiye responded with a 12-0 run in the second frame to extend their advantage to 45-24.
They led by as much as 30 points, and dished out 26 assists while forcing Greece to commit 22 turnovers.
"It was one of the best defenses I’ve ever seen in this competition," Ataman said.
Kostas Sloukas led Greece with 15 points, as Antetokounmpo was held to just 12 points but grabbed 12 rebounds in 30 minutes.
Despite the loss, the Greeks remain in contention for their first medal since 2005, facing Finland in the bronze medal game.
—
Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022.
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.