Turkey center Alperen Sengun flirted with a triple-double on Friday, posting 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists in a 92-78 victory over Czechia to open a packed EuroBasket weekend.
After the game, Turkey head coach Ergin Ataman sparked social-media chatter by declaring, “Give me Alperen Sengun at Panathinaikos and we will beat the Houston Rockets.”
The 22-year-old All-Star followed up with 20 points, seven boards and five assists in Saturday’s 95-54 rout of Portugal. Turkey will meet Serbia next, with the winner securing the top spot in their group and a favorable Round-of-16 position.
Markkanen Stays Hot for Finland
Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen continued his prolific summer, erupting for 43 points in just 23 minutes during Finland’s 109-79 blowout of Great Britain. The 7-footer then produced a double-double as Finland defeated Nikola Vucevic’s Montenegro 85-65 on Saturday.
Jokic Pushes Serbia Into Knockout Round
Three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic recorded 23 points and 10 rebounds in Serbia’s 80-69 win over Portugal on Friday, while Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic added 18 points. Serbia clinched its Round-of-16 berth the next day by edging Kristaps Porzingis’ Latvia 84-80, led by Jokic’s 39-point, 10-rebound performance.
Petrusev Suspended After Ejection
Former Kings and 76ers center Filip Petrusev was ejected early against Portugal for what officials deemed an act of violence. He received a one-game suspension and a €5,000 fine.
Poland Stays Perfect
Host nation Poland improved to 3-0 with a 66-64 win over Deni Avdija and Israel on Saturday.
The EuroBasket group stage continues through next week before the single-elimination Round of 16 begins.
Source: HoopsRumors
