Eurobasket 2025: A great day for Luka Doncic with Israel and France threatening Spain

Luka Doncic led Slovenia with 26 points in the 87-79 victory over Iceland, securing the Slovenians' spot in the Round of 16 of Eurobasket 2025 and also securing France's qualification. Despite his strong performance, Doncic struggled from beyond the arc, making only 2 of 10 attempts. With this win, Slovenia joins Poland, Israel, and France as the four teams advancing from Group D.

In the same group, Israel also secured their place in the next phase by defeating Belgium 92-89. Deni Avdija shined again with 22 points, supported by Roman Sorkin's 18 points. The Israeli team had a 21-point lead in Katowice, but Belgium closed the gap in the final stretch. Yam Madar sealed the victory with two free throws in the closing seconds.

Meanwhile, France defeated Poland 83-76 with a stellar performance by Guerschon Yabusele, scoring 36 points and 6 three-pointers, along with Élie Okobo's 14 points and 10 assists.

In Group C, already qualified Greece fell 80-77 to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Giannis Antetokounmpo didn't play due to knee discomfort, but coach Vassilis Spanoulis expects him to be ready for the crucial match against Spain. Jusuf Nurkic and John Roberson, each with 18 points, were instrumental for Bosnia, who still have chances. Also in this group, Georgia dominated Cyprus 93-61 with Tornike Shengelia's 27 points and a double-double by Goga Bitadze.

The tournament now moves into the knockout stage scheduled in Riga, Latvia, from September 6 to 14. It's worth noting that Spain claimed the 2022 edition by defeating France 88-76 in the final.

Spain's Tough Loss

The day ended with the clash between Spain and Italy in Limassol. The Spanish team faced obstacles on their path after a 67-63 defeat against Italy, though they still control their destiny for progression. Marco Spissu put Italy ahead with two free throws with 31 seconds remaining and sealed the win from the line. Giampaolo Ricci and Mouhamet Diouf provided offensive strength, with the latter scoring 14 points. Saliou Niang, drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Spain, led by Santi Aldama (19 points, 10 rebounds) and Sergio de Larrea (15 points), stands at 2-2, tied with Georgia and Bosnia. With Greece and Italy already through, Spain's fate will be determined in the contest against Greece, where a victory would secure their spot in the Round of 16.

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