FIBA 1327
Finland thrive as Lauri Markkanen shifts to defensive role
Finland dialled down Lauri Markkanen’s offensive role as they delivered a defensively stout display to see off Montenegro. The Utah Jazz man wasn’t the only person on the minds of those in Tampere for EuroBasket 2025. Emmet Ryan writes that Miikka Muurinen has already gained exalted status amongst the Susijengi. On the face of things, […]
Great Britain’s EuroBasket reality check in Sweden loss
It was a game effort from Great Britain but a familiar result for them against Sweden at EuroBasket 2025. Marc Steutel’s side fell to 0-3 as the reality of this level hit home. Great Britain came into Saturday after the briefest of turnarounds. Having played in primetime against Finland on Friday night, there were some […]
Daniel Theis proves vital in Germany’s EuroBasket plan
Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner did their part but it was undoubtedly a Daniel Theis day in Tampere. The Germany big man was in exceptional form at both ends as his side beat Lithuania at EuroBasket 2025. Daniel Theis loves a challenge. That can go unnoticed, given the ferocious competitive natures of his colleagues Dennis […]
Finland’s Defense Needs Miikka Muurinen to Ease Markkanen Load
Finland moved to 2-0 at EuroBasket 2025 with victory over Great Britain but there’s a glaring problem for the Susijengi. The Finnish D simply hasn’t been up to the level required through the first two games. Emmet Ryan sees a solution of sorts, relying less on Lauri Markkanen and more on Miikka Muurinen. Considering Finland […]
Jonas Valanciunas shows his value as Lithuania’s anchor at EuroBasket
Jonas Valanciunas took care of business early as Lithuania swept Montenegro aside at EuroBasket 2025. The fate of Lithuania in this tournament rests on the shoulders of the Denver Nuggets man. Emmet Ryan on how JV delivered while also keeping something in reserve. Lithuania had a plan. Get the absolute most out of Jonas Valanciunas […]
EuroBasket 2025: Schroder and Germany’s Old Guard Step Up
It was a day for the old guard on Friday as Germany’s veterans took control in the first half to kill off Sweden’s challenge. Emmet Ryan on how Daniel Theis, Maodo Lo, and, of course, Dennis Schroder are key to their hopes at EuroBasket 2025 With Franz Wagner starring in his birthday game on the […]
Miika Muurinen Shows Mamba Mentality at EuroBasket 2025
Miika Muurinen had his moment on Wednesday night in Tampere. With the game on the line at EuroBasket 2025, the 18 year old stepped up big when it mattered for Finland against Sweden. Emmet Ryan on the youngster’s confidence and what it means for the Susijengi. Maybe it’s a coincidence but you can’t help but […]
Lauri Markkanen powers Finland past Sweden in EuroBasket 2025 thriller
Those of a nervous disposition wouldn’t have been able to handle the Nokia Arena on Tuesday night. Lauri Markkanen and Finland were pushed to the absolute limit by Sweden in EuroBasket 2025 Not for the first time, Lauri Markkanen was playing a home game in EuroBasket. The difference between EuroBasket 2017 and EuroBasket 2025 was […]
Franz Wagner Celebrates Birthday with a win at EuroBasket 2025
It was a working birthday for Franz Wagner as he took the floor with Germany against Montenegro. The 24 year old Orlando Magic star shone as the Mannschaft won their opening EuroBasket 2025 game in Tampere. There was no time for Franz Wagner to party on his birthday. With German fans holding up a happy […]
Great Britain Show Fight but Fall to Lithuania at EuroBasket 2025
The attitude of Great Britain in their opening game of EuroBasket 2025 was an enormous improvement from three years ago. The result however was all too familiar. With Jonas Valanciunas never leaving first gear, Lithuania cruised to victory. Marc Steutel’s side received a tough reminder of what’s required at this level in Tampere. Pretty much […]
Barely Hoops – FIBA commentator Jeff Taylor ahead of EuroBasket 2025
It’s the eve of EuroBasket 2025. Fans are gathering in Katowice, Nicosia, Riga, and Tampere, but those watching at home will recognise a familiar voice. In the latest edition of the Barely Hoops podcast, FIBA and BCL commentator Jeff Taylor spoke with Emmet Ryan about his journey through basketball and commentary. From growing up surrounded […]
What Ireland Learned From Sold-Out Friendlies With Norway
Ireland’s national teams stepped onto the floor with Norway at the weekend and Emmet Ryan took it all in. One win, one defeat. More importantly, lots of reps for the men and women despite missing quite a few bodies. Ireland’s national teams could do with more time together but, as short stints go, this was […]