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EuroBasket

Finland trembled against Swedish neighbors

EuroBasket - Finland trembled but eventually prevailed against Sweden (93-90) this Wednesday, August 27th in Tampere for their EuroBasket 2025 opener. In front of their home crowd, the "Susijengi" relied on a brilliant Lauri Markkanen to avoid a huge upset in the Nordic derby.
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Finland trembled against Swedish neighbors
Photo Credit : FIBA

Finland started their EuroBasket 2025 with a narrow victory against Sweden (93-90) this Wednesday, August 27th in Tampere. In front of their home crowd, Lassi Tuovi’s men struggled until the end but could count on a flawless Lauri Markkanen to make the difference.

Markkanen leads the way

As expected, Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz) carried the « Susijengi » with 28 points, 6 rebounds and a 28 efficiency rating. The big man was supported by new Gravelines player Edon Maxhuni (15 points), former Paris player Mikael Jantunen (12) and captain Sasu Salin (11). A solid collective effort, but one that struggled against a tenacious and confident Swedish team.

Hakanson on fire for Sweden

The Scandinavian team nearly pulled off the upset. Ludvig Hakanson (Bilbao Basket) shined with 28 points and 5 assists. Behind him, former Antibes player Viktor Gaddefors (15 points), Simon Birgander (12 points, 7 rebounds), along with former Monaco prospect Melwin Pantzar and Pelle Larsson (10 points each) helped Sweden stay close until the final seconds.

A breathtaking derby to start

This Nordic duel lived up to all expectations: intensity, suspense, and stars showing up. Finland snatched a precious victory (93-90) in front of their home crowd, while Sweden, despite the loss, proved they could compete with Group B favorites Germany and Lithuania, who both won earlier this Wednesday.

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Image Gabriel Pantel-Jouve
Gabriel Pantel-Jouve
Gabriel Pantel-Jouve is the founder and editor-in-chief of BeBasket, which he has been running since 2010 (formerly known as Catch & Shoot). Having studied at the École Publique de Journalisme de Tours and two universities in North America, he has developed his expertise in French basketball, from the National League to amateur divisions, over the past 20 years. Alongside this, he is also involved in the development of clubs in the Montpellier area.
Finland trembled against Swedish neighbors