Doncic powers Slovenia past Iceland, books spot in EuroBasket round of 16
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KATOWICE, Poland — Luka Doncic poured in 26 points on Tuesday, steering Slovenia to an 87-79 victory over Iceland and clinching a berth in the EuroBasket knockout stage. The win also guaranteed France a place in the last 16.
The Los Angeles Lakers guard struggled from deep, converting just 2 of 10 three-point attempts, but Slovenia still secured its third win in four Group D games.
Israel also advances
Earlier in Katowice, Israel edged Belgium 92-89 to secure its own ticket to Riga. Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija led the way with 22 points, while Maccabi Tel Aviv center Roman Sorkin added 18.
Israel built a 21-point cushion before Belgium closed the gap. With four seconds remaining, guard Yam Madar hit two free throws to restore a 92-87 lead. Belgium’s Loic Schwartz finished with 14 points, nailing four shots from beyond the arc.
Injuries and late games
France, already qualified thanks to Slovenia’s win, lost center Alex Sarr for the rest of the tournament because of a calf injury. Les Bleus met co-host Poland later Tuesday, while defending champion Spain faced already-qualified Italy in Limassol, Cyprus.
Group C roundup
Greece suffered its first defeat, falling 80-77 to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Giannis Antetokounmpo sat out with knee discomfort, though coach Vassilis Spanoulis told national broadcaster ERT the Milwaukee Bucks star should return Thursday against Spain.
Utah Jazz center Jusuf Nurkic and guard John Roberson scored 18 points apiece for Bosnia, now 2-2 in group play.
Georgia kept its hopes alive by routing co-host Cyprus 93-61 behind 27 points from Barcelona forward Tornike Shengelia and a 21-point, 13-rebound effort from Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze.
Looking ahead
The top four teams in each group advance to the single-elimination phase in Riga, Latvia, scheduled for Sept. 6-14. Spain defeated France 88-76 to claim the 2022 title.
Source: ESPN
