Germany’s national basketball team captured their second-ever European championship with a dramatic 88-83 comeback victory against Turkey in the EuroBasket 2025 final on Sunday in Riga, Latvia. The triumph marked Germany’s first EuroBasket title since 1993, ending a 32-year drought in the continental competition.
The final, contested between two undefeated sides, delivered high drama from start to finish. Turkey, coached by Ergin Ataman, stormed into the game with a blistering 13-2 run, thanks to quick scoring from Shane Larkin, Cedi Osman, and Alperen Şengün.
Germany, however, steadied themselves through captain Dennis Schröder and Isaac Bonga, narrowing the deficit to close the first quarter 24-22 in their favor.
By halftime, Turkey had regained control, leading 46-40, with Osman’s shooting and Şengün’s inside dominance keeping Germany on the back foot. The third quarter was marked by fierce exchanges, as Bonga and Franz Wagner kept Germany within striking distance.
Yet, with momentum swinging, Cedi Osman’s crucial three-pointer extended Turkey’s lead to six points at 61-55.
As the tension escalated, Adem Bona’s late basket ensured Turkey ended the third quarter narrowly ahead, 67-66. In the final period, Larkin’s double-double performance looked set to carry Turkey to victory, especially after his free throws gave them an 81-79 lead with just two minutes left.
However, Germany’s resilience shone through when Bonga nailed a critical three-pointer to flip the game in their favor at 77-76. In the closing minutes, Schröder’s leadership proved decisive as Germany scored the last six points of the contest, silencing Turkey’s hopes and sealing the 88-83 triumph.
The German squad, featuring Schröder, Bonga, Andreas Obst, Daniel Theis, and Franz Wagner, displayed composure and depth, ultimately outlasting Turkey’s valiant efforts. The victory not only crowned them EuroBasket 2025 champions but also underlined their rise as a powerhouse in international basketball.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated the team in a post on X, calling their display a “sensational performance” and praising them as “an inspiration for young female and male athletes.”
For Turkey, the heartbreak was palpable. Despite the stellar play of Larkin, Osman, and Şengün, their wait for a first EuroBasket title continues. The final highlighted their immense potential but also their missed opportunities in clutch moments.
As Germany celebrated their long-awaited triumph in Riga, the victory marked more than just a championship. It symbolized a new chapter for German basketball — a reminder of resilience, unity, and the ability to deliver when it matters most.