EuroBasket 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with powerful teams and elite players showcasing their skills on an international stage. The match-up between Germany and Slovenia promises to be a gripping contest, particularly with standout NBA players Franz Wagner and Luka Doncic leading the charge for their respective nations. As the two squads prepare to face off in a knockout game on September 10 at 2:00 PM ET (9:00 PM local time in Riga, Latvia), it’s essential for fans to know how to catch all the action.
How to Watch
For viewers in the United States, the game will be available for streaming on Courtside 1891, FIBA’s official streaming platform. Additionally, DAZN offers access through its app, ensuring that fans can follow the intensity of EuroBasket 2025 from anywhere.
Player Highlights
Luka Doncic is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars of EuroBasket 2025, arriving in Latvia with sky-high expectations. The Slovenian sensation has not disappointed, leading the tournament with an impressive average of 34 points per game. Beyond his scoring prowess, Doncic has demonstrated his all-around game by contributing 7.2 assists and 8.4 rebounds per game. His defensive efforts have also been noteworthy, leading the tournament in steals with 3.2 per game. His standout performances, including a rare triple-double, have kept Slovenia in contention and made him a focal point of every game.
However, Doncic’s task is formidable. He bears much of the offensive responsibility for Slovenia, and defenses have increasingly focused on containing him. His shooting statistics illustrate this challenge, as he has excelled shooting 61.4% from inside the arc, yet has struggled with his three-point shooting at just 32.3%. In a knockout format, teams will look to exploit any weakness, and Doncic will need to find ways to adapt.
In contrast, Franz Wagner offers a different narrative for Germany. While Doncic embodies the “do it all” player for Slovenia, Wagner thrives in a more balanced lineup. Leading a deep German squad that boasts significant talent, he averages 20.7 points per game but shares offensive duties with players like Dennis Schroder, who contributes 20.2 points per game, and Daniel Theis, who chips in 10.7 points. Wagner is not just a scorer; he also contributes significantly on the boards, averaging 5.5 rebounds per game alongside Theis, and dishes out 3.8 assists on average.
Germany enters this matchup as the defending World Cup champions and as the only undefeated team in EuroBasket, boasting a perfect record of 6-0. Their depth has been a defining feature, allowing head coach Gordon Herbert to deploy various defensive strategies against Doncic, which may prove crucial in this pivotal game. Throughout the tournament, no opposing team has come closer than 19 points against Germany, revealing just how dominant they have been.
The Importance of Depth
One of the key factors that could influence the outcome of this matchup is the depth and balance of the German team compared to Slovenia’s reliance on Doncic. With numerous effective players, Germany can afford to rotate fresh legs onto the court, placing additional pressure on Doncic while also minimizing the wear and tear on their own stars. The ability to constantly challenge Doncic with different defenders can weaken his offensive flow and take Slovenia off their game plan.
Tactical Strategies
As the teams prepare for this critical encounter, understanding the tactical approaches they may employ is crucial. For Slovenia, the strategy will likely involve surrounding Doncic with shooters to create space and options. If he can draw defenders and kick out to open shooters, it could open scoring opportunities even when he is double-teamed.
On the other hand, Germany can leverage its depth by employing a versatile defensive scheme. Expect to see multiple players assigned to Doncic, creating a rotating defensive structure that aims to wear him down over the course of the game. Additionally, Germany’s offensive game will need to exploit mismatches, distributing the ball to different players like Wagner and Schroder to keep the pressure on Slovenia’s defense.
Conclusion
As EuroBasket 2025 continues to deliver thrilling basketball, the head-to-head battle between Germany and Slovenia featuring Franz Wagner and Luka Doncic is one to watch. The game represents not just an essential moment in the tournament but also a showcase of individual talent and team strategies that could determine the outcome. Fans looking to catch the action can easily access the game through Courtside 1891 or DAZN, ensuring they don’t miss a second of the excitement. As both teams strive for glory, expect a nail-biting contest that could be remembered for years to come.
