EuroBasket 2025: Markkanen and Maxhuni Lead Finland to Narrow Win Over Sweden
Finland kicked off its EuroBasket 2025 campaign with a hard-fought but valuable 93–90 victory over Sweden in a Scandinavian derby that went down to the final possession. Led by NBA star Lauri Markkanen, who poured in 28 points, coach Lassi Tuovi’s squad held their nerve under pressure to secure the win. Supporting the Utah Jazz forward were Edon Maxhuni with 15 points, Mikael Jantunen with 12, and team captain Sasu Salin with 11, in a well-rounded performance that helped Finland start the tournament on the right foot.
Sweden, however, proved they’re no pushovers. Ludvig Håkanson kept his team in the game with a stellar 28-point outing, keeping Swedish hopes alive until the final buzzer. Viktor Gaddefors added 15 points, while Melwin Pantzar and Miami Heat prospect Pelle Larsson scored 10 each. Simon Birgander rounded out the effort with 12 points and 7 rebounds. With 9 seconds left, two clutch free throws from Maxhuni gave Finland a three-point cushion, but Pantzar’s turnover following Gaddefors’ offensive rebound denied Sweden the chance to force overtime. Despite the loss, Sweden showed character and quality, setting the stage for a competitive group stage ahead.
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