By Cesare Milanti/ info@eurohoops.net
Riga, Latvia – The Turkish national team is back in the EuroBasket final for the first time in 24 years, after a stunning victory over Greece and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Furkan Korkmaz, one of the heroes, expressed his delight after the semifinal win.
“It feels great. I’m really happy that we got the win. Everybody played great today. But instead of celebrating, we’re already preparing for the Germany game,” Korkmaz said after the semifinal in Riga.
Korkmaz pointed out that Turkey’s defensive focus early on proved decisive.
“Ercan a lot of open shots, especially at the beginning of the game, and I think that was crucial. We expected them to be aggressive, but we set the tone early and went into halftime with a comfortable lead. Our game plan worked perfectly.”
The mindset, he added, was to keep pushing after the break, despite the comfortable lead.
“We just said to come back stronger and build the lead even more. We didn’t want to stop, because against teams like this, they can come back really quickly. We didn’t want to let that happen.”
For Turkey, the victory carries historic weight. The country returns to a EuroBasket final for the first time since 2001 and secures its first medal at a major FIBA competition since the 2010 World Cup in Istanbul.
“It means a lot — not just one word, not just one sentence. I know our people back home are really happy. We, the players, are also really happy. The 12 Giant Men are back,” Korkmaz smiled.
The guard recalled the last time Turkey stood on the podium in 2010.
“I was just a kid in 2010, watching at home, and I felt so proud. I celebrated like every young Turkish fan. Now it feels amazing to know people are behind us and celebrating for us. It’s unforgettable.”
Looking ahead to the final against Germany, Korkmaz acknowledged the challenge but expressed full confidence.
“They’re a great team with a lot of talent, but once again we showed our potential. If we can start the game like this, I believe it’s going to be ours.”
As for his own journey, returning to Europe last season hasn’t been without difficulties, but wearing the national jersey brings clarity.
“Whenever I put on the national team jersey, for me the other books are closed, the other pages are closed. Today was one of those days. I just wanted to get the win and reach the final. Now we deserve to be there — and it has to be gold. I’m not thinking about anything else.”