The basketball world simply witnessed a second that can go down in Portuguese sports activities historical past. On Day 1 of EuroBasket 2025, Portugal snapped an 18-year drought by defeating Czechia 62–50 in Riga. It was their first EuroBasket win since 2007 and it got here in model.
Boston Celtics heart Neemias Queta placed on an unforgettable present, ending with 23 factors, 18 rebounds, 4 blocks, and a couple of steals. His dominance on each ends of the courtroom is what sealed Portugal’s victory. Queta grew to become the primary participant since 1995 to file 20+ factors and 15+ rebounds in his EuroBasket debut.
Portugal’s nationwide basketball staff hasn’t precisely been a daily at EuroBasket, making solely their fourth-ever look. However this victory indicators a brand new period one the place Portuguese basketball is now not simply collaborating, however competing on the highest degree.
This win provides Portugal momentum heading deeper into group play, however the street solely will get more durable. Nonetheless, with Neemias Queta main the cost and the staff believing of their potential, they’re abruptly a squad nobody can take frivolously.
