By Semih Tuna/ info@eurohoops.net
RIGA – Turkiye repelled early comeback bids and coasted through the second half en route to a 93-73 victory versus Latvia in Xiaomi Arena.
An impressive start in Group A of EuroBasket 2025 saw the lead for the team coached by Ergin Ataman peaking at 26 points during the third quarter.
Besides being limited to 3/12 from the field and ten points for the hosts, Kristaps Porzingis was on the receiving end of a crazy poster dunk by Sehmus Hazer in the first half.
HAZER POSTERIZED PORZINGIS 👀#Eurobasket pic.twitter.com/XEVkVyx0Pk
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) August 27, 2025
Cedi Osman dropped a game-high 20 points behind 6/10 field goals, including four triples in Riga. His 11 points in the third period propelled Turkiye to a safe distance.
After paving the way with 13 points in the first half, Kenan Sipahi ended up with 19 points, making all of his six attempts from the field, including five shots from beyond the arc. Lasting nearly 28 minutes, the 30-year-old guard also recorded four rebounds and three assists.
Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun added 16 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, one block, and one steal. The fourth double-digit scoring contribution belonged to Shane Larkin with 15 points.
For Luca Banchi’s side, Rihards Lomazs stood out with 16 points. Arturs Zagars followed with 11 points, but was forced to an early exit in the third quarter due to injury.
“Doctor suggested not to use him anymore. It’s a lower body injury,” said Luca Banchi, updating the status of the 25-year-old guard of Fenerbahce Beko.
Resuming action on Friday, Turkiye takes on Czechia and Latvia faces Estonia.
Photo Credit: FIBA