Lauri Markkanen on fire again: 31 points in 23 minutes against Belgium
EuroBasket - Three days after his 48 points against Belgium, Lauri Markkanen shined again with 31 points in 23 minutes, leading Finland to its historic 500th international victory.
Photo Credit : Basketball Finland
On Monday August 11 at the Espoo Metro Arena, Lauri Markkanen (7’0″, 28 years old) confirmed his brilliant form in the EuroBasket preparation game. After tormenting Belgium with 48 points on Friday, the NBA big man scored 31 points in just 23 minutes to give Finland – the « Susijengi » – a commanding victory (92-74) and a historic 500th international win.
31
PTS
5
REB
0
AST
Markkanen and Salin lead the Susijengi
Against a revenge-seeking Belgium after their heavy defeat a few days earlier, Finland took control thanks to their star duo. Sasu Salin, celebrating his 150th cap, lit up the start with two quick three-pointers, while Markkanen dominated in the paint and from the free-throw line (11/12).
After a first half marked by Belgian aggressiveness, the Susijengi found their rhythm in transition, inflicting a 14-0 run in fast breaks against… zero for their opponent. After halftime, despite Belgium closing to within 5 points, Finland’s collective defense stifled any comeback attempt.
An offensive and defensive showcase
Markkanen, besides his offensive contribution (2/4 on 2-pointers, 4/6 on 3-pointers, 11/12 from the line), multiplied defensive plays with steals and blocks. Salin finished with 17 points (4/7 from three) and four steals, well supported by Olli Nkamhoua (11 points, 8 rebounds) and Elias Valtonen (8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists).
For Belgium, Hans Vanwijn (15 points, 5 rebounds) and Emmanuel Lecomte (13 points) were the standouts, but Belgium was unable to counter Finland’s imposed rhythm.
🇫🇮 Another day at the office for Lauri who drops 31 PTS in Finland’s #EuroBasket preparation game against Belgium! pic.twitter.com/Yy7BuNjt6S
— FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 11, 2025
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For head coach Lassi Tuovi, these two games against Belgium allowed testing combinations and gaining reference points: « We got what we came for: information, experience, and the opportunity to try different starting lineups. The game is gradually coming together. »
Next up for Finland: a trip to Sosnowiec to face Poland, EuroBasket co-host, before a final rehearsal against the same Polish team on August 21 in Espoo.
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.
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