FIBA EuroBasket 2025 concluded in spectacular fashion at Xiaomi Arena on September 14, with Germany capturing their second continental title in a thrilling 88-83 victory over Türkiye in front of 11,000 passionate fans.
The championship capped off three weeks of elite basketball across four host nations, with Riga serving as the tournament’s centerpiece for the knockout phases. From the Round of 16 through the final, the Latvian capital provided the perfect stage for European basketball’s most prestigious event.
Germany’s Championship Run
Dennis Schroder led Germany to glory, earning tournament MVP honors after averaging 20.3 points and 7.2 assists throughout the competition. The Sacramento Kings guard delivered when it mattered most, recording 16 points and a championship-record 12 assists in the final.
“This is the best team I’ve ever played with,” Schroder said after the victory. “We want to keep up this standard and win more awards.”
Germany’s triumph makes them just the fourth nation in basketball history to hold both the FIBA World Cup and EuroBasket titles simultaneously, joining the Soviet Union, Yugoslavia, and Spain. They won the World Cup in 2023 and now add the European crown to complete a remarkable two-year run.
Franz Wagner provided crucial support throughout the tournament, earning All-Star Five recognition alongside Schroder. The duo’s chemistry proved decisive in Germany’s unbeaten march through the knockout stages.
Isaac Bonga emerged as the unlikely hero in the final, scoring a tournament-high 20 points when Germany needed it most. His two clutch three-pointers in the fourth quarter and crucial offensive rebound with 30 seconds remaining sealed the championship.
Knockouts Delivered Drama
The tournament’s knockout phase in Riga provided non-stop excitement from the Round of 16 onwards. Host nation Latvia’s quarterfinal appearance energized the crowd, though they fell short against eventual bronze medalists Greece.
The semifinals produced contrasting results. Germany dismantled Finland 98-86 behind balanced scoring and superior depth, while Türkiye shocked Greece 94-68 to reach their first final since 2001.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Greece bounced back in the bronze medal game, defeating Finland 92-89 in another thriller. The Milwaukee Bucks star delivered 30 points and 17 rebounds to finally capture his first international medal.
“This is probably the greatest accomplishment I have ever accomplished as an athlete,” the Greek Freak said. “When you are able to make 12 million Greeks happy and inspire the next generation, this is the biggest thing ever.”
The Final: A Championship Classic
Sunday’s final lived up to every expectation. Türkiye, led by Alperen Sengun’s 28 points, matched Germany shot-for-shot through 40 minutes of basketball brilliance. The game featured 15 lead changes and 11 ties, with neither team able to build a comfortable advantage.
Germany trailed for 24 minutes but never panicked. Schroder took control in the final minute, hitting a crucial layup for the lead before adding a mid-range jumper that proved decisive.
“We never shy away from the big moments,” Schroder explained. “It’s not just Franz, it’s not just me, it’s the whole team.”
Türkiye’s heartbreak continued a pattern of final defeats, dropping their championship game record to 0-3 after previous losses in 2001 and at the 2010 World Cup.
Riga: The Perfect Host
Xiaomi Arena proved an exceptional venue for European basketball’s premier event. The 11,200-seat arena on Skanstes Street created an electric atmosphere throughout the knockout phase, with fans from across Europe creating a carnival environment.
Latvia’s preparation for the tournament included special urban decorations and comprehensive visitor guides, showcasing the nation’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience. The sold-out crowds for every knockout game demonstrated Riga’s enthusiasm for top-level basketball.
The tournament’s success in Riga extends beyond the games themselves. International visitors experienced Latvian culture and hospitality, while local fans witnessed basketball at its highest level. The economic impact and global exposure provided lasting benefits for the host city.
Final Standings and Awards
Germany’s championship completed the final tournament standings:
- Germany
- Türkiye
- Greece
- Finland
- Lithuania
- Poland
- Slovenia
- Georgia
The All-Star Five featured MVP Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner (Germany), Alperen Sengun (Türkiye), Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece), and Luka Doncic (Slovenia).
Tournament Legacy
EuroBasket 2025 will be remembered for Germany’s dominant championship run and Riga’s exceptional hosting. The tournament showcased European basketball’s depth and quality, with traditional powers like Germany and Greece sharing the podium with rising programs like Finland.
For Germany, the title represents the pinnacle of a golden generation that has now conquered both continental and global competition. Their success provides a blueprint for sustained excellence in international basketball.
Riga’s successful hosting of the knockout phase positions the city among Europe’s premier basketball venues. The passionate crowds and seamless organization created memories that will last long after the final buzzer.
As the confetti settled at Xiaomi Arena, one thing became clear: EuroBasket 2025 delivered everything European basketball promised and more. Germany earned their place in history, while Riga proved itself as a championship-caliber host city ready for future marquee events.
