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Germany Wins EuroBasket 2025, Defeats Turkey in Historic Final
Sep
Germany has been crowned EuroBasket 2025 champions, securing their first European basketball title in 32 years with an 88-83 win over Turkey in a thrilling final held in Riga, Latvia, on Sunday.
Led by captain Dennis Schröder, Germany closed the game with a dramatic six-point run after trailing for much of the match. The victory marks Germany’s second-ever EuroBasket title, their last coming in 1993.
In a post on X, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised the team’s “sensational performance,” adding, “We are proud of you. You are an inspiration for young female and male athletes.”
A Final Packed with Intensity
The showdown at Arena Riga featured two undefeated teams who hadn’t faced each other in a EuroBasket final since 2003. Both squads brought their best: Turkey started with Shane Larkin, Şehmus Hazer, Cedi Osman, Ercan Osmani, and Alperen Şengün. Germany’s lineup included Dennis Schröder, Andreas Obst, Isaac Bonga, Daniel Theis, and Franz Wagner.
Turkey, under head coach Ergin Ataman, came out strong with a 13-2 run in the opening minutes. However, Germany quickly recovered with key points from Bonga and Schröder, ending the first quarter ahead 24-22.
Momentum Swings and Star Performances
In the second quarter, Turkey took control, going into halftime with a 46-40 lead.
The third quarter saw fierce offense from both sides. With five minutes left, Turkish NBA star Alperen Şengün drew a foul and converted a key basket, helping Turkey retake the lead. Soon after, Cedi Osman nailed a three-pointer to push Turkey’s advantage to 61-55.
Germany responded with consecutive scores, narrowing the gap. A late basket by Turkey’s Adem Bona tied the game again. The quarter ended with Turkey leading 67-66.
Fourth-Quarter Comeback
The final quarter was a nail-biter. Turkey maintained a narrow edge thanks to Cedi Osman’s sharp shooting and a double-double performance by Shane Larkin. With under four minutes left, Turkey led 76-74.
However, Germany rallied. Schröder and Wagner stepped up in the closing minutes, leading a 6-0 run that sealed the championship for Germany.
A Match to Remember
This victory is not only historic for Germany, but also a testament to the evolving competitiveness of European basketball. Turkey played with grit and passion, showcasing rising stars like Şengün and Bona, while Germany proved their depth and experience in the final moments.
Germany now celebrates its long-awaited return to the top of European basketball, 32 years after their first triumph.
