By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
Riga, Latvia – Finland went only one shot away from making the country’s history at FIBA EuroBasket 2025, losing at the very ultimate chapter of the third-place final game against Greece.
In the post-game mixed zone, the team’s hero, Lauri Markkanen, shared his thoughts on them becoming role models for the new generation of Finnish basketball lovers. “That’s what we’re trying to do,” he said.
“Obviously, we’re trying to perform at our best here, trying to win a medal. But in the bigger picture, yes, of course. You try to give back to young kids the future of the game as much as possible.
“You definitely have that in your mind when you step up on the court and try to give it your all, representing your country,” the Utah Jazz superstar continued.
Later on, he was asked about the main takeaways that Finland could bring over from a majestic run at FIBA EuroBasket 2025. “We can do anything as a team,” he first answered.
“We stuck together, we played together, we played for the country. That’s the one takeaway from the tournament: you never give up, and you play for the name in front of the jersey,” Lauri followed.
Anything’s possible. It wasn’t quiet enough today, but it gives us a boost and motivation for the future.”
PHOTO CREDIT: FIBA