Europe’s premier international basketball tournament, EuroBasket 2025, tips off on 27 August and runs through 14 September, co‑hosted by Cyprus, Finland, Poland, and Latvia. This showcase delivers rising nations, elite talent and high‑stakes intrigue.
In a historic setup, EuroBasket 2025 will unfold across four nations, offering varied atmospheres and widespread fan engagement.
The knockout rounds in Riga will bring fervour, and returning narratives abound: Portugal and Sweden make long-awaited comebacks, adding fresh momentum.
And then there’s the star power: Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic—a triumvirate of European MVPs from the NBA. Their presence elevates every storyline, from national pride to NBA-level anticipation.
So, with that said, here’s a look at five reasons to be excited for EuroBasket 2025.
Latvia, Cyprus, Finland and Poland set to host EuroBasket
This edition will mark the first time EuroBasket is staged across four countries, bringing fans together in Riga, Limassol, Tampere and Katowice.
Each host will provide a different flavour of atmosphere, from the basketball-mad Baltic to passionate fans in Southern Europe.
The shared hosting model is designed to broaden reach and maximise attendance across the continent.
Portugal and Sweden return to the competition
Both nations make long-awaited returns after more than a decade away from the tournament.
For Portugal, this is a chance to establish themselves on the European stage and inspire new talent back home.
Sweden, meanwhile, has seen steady domestic growth in basketball, and their comeback signals how far the program has come since their last appearance.
Luka Doncic’s body transformation before EuroBasket
All eyes will be on Luka Doncic, who has slimmed down and reshaped his fitness over the summer.
His physical transformation has been widely discussed, even drawing a reaction from Magic Johnson.
It could be the key to Slovenia’s chances of making another deep run. A leaner Doncic means a faster tempo and renewed confidence in Slovenia’s attack.
The top stars at EuroBasket 2025
Beyond Doncic, Europe’s three biggest names—Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, and Doncic himself—headline the tournament.
Each player arrives with MVP credentials and the ability to carry their nation deep into the knockout rounds.
Fans will also see emerging prospects and new leaders from countries like France and Spain, balancing star power with fresh storylines.
Finland’s Lauri Markkanen is a prime candidate after dropping 42 points in a warm-up game against Poland.
France’s Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr, both recent NBA lottery picks, could showcase their potential on the big stage.
Watch for a surprise run from Portugal’s Neemias Queta, who has the chance to become one of the tournament’s unlikely standouts.
Olympic Basketball 2028 build-up
This EuroBasket carries added weight as teams prepare their foundations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.
Coaches will experiment with rotations, chemistry and long-term leadership, while younger players aim to prove themselves on the international stage.
Strong performances here could shift momentum and shape how nations qualify and prepare for the global tournament.
With EuroBasket 2025 just around the corner, fans have every reason to pay attention. Four hosts, returning teams, Luka’s transformation, and star power combine to ensure this is not just another summer tournament—it’s a European basketball festival.