By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Rytas and G League United will clash for the ultimate global crown after emerging victorious in the Semifinals at Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium.
The FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2026 is set for an electrifying conclusion on Sunday as both tournament debutants punched their tickets to the Final in completely contrasting fashions.
In a gritty, tactical showdown, Basketball Champions League titleholders Rytas pulled off a sensational 77–70 escape over Boca Juniors. The Argentine powerhouse initially controlled the game with a suffocating defensive blueprint. They completely neutralized Rytas from the perimeter early on. By temporarily eliminating the Lithuanians’ signature long-range weapon, the Buenos Aires-based squad dictated the tempo, commanding the floor for nearly 30 minutes.
Though the South Americans even extended their advantage to nine points and went up by eight at the end of the third quarter, the Vilnius outfit refused to go away. Unleashing a fourth-quarter storm with confidence, Rytas shattered Boca’s defensive armor, staging a breathless comeback to steal the victory. Combining for 15 points to fuel the late surge, Augustas Marciulionis and Michael Devoe shared a team-high 14 points. However, Cassius Winston was forced to an early exit due to injury.
G League United dominates
Earlier, the G League squad weaponized their high-octane offense to dismantle Basketball Africa League champions RSSB Tigers, 114–95. What began as a physical, neck-and-neck duel dissolved into a second-half runaway. Lester Quinones put on a shooting clinic, torching the net for 29 points including five triples, while Philip Wheeler provided a 24-point display.
Opening the Saturday slate, local fans had plenty to celebrate as hosts Beijing Royal Fighters coasted past the Shanghai Sharks 101–87 in the fifth-place consolation game. Grant Riller spearheaded the assault with 22 points, while Javonte Cooke chipped in 17.
The six-team tournament wraps up tomorrow with a third-place game before the Final.
Make