EuroBasket takeaways: Legacies cemented and the next chapter for NBA stars

EuroBasket 2025 delivered another showcase of international basketball at the highest level. With elite NBA talent leading their countries and rising stars making names for themselves, the tournament gave fans plenty to chew on heading into the upcoming NBA season.

From Dennis Schroder’s historic run with Germany to Alperen Sengun’s continued development, several storylines stood out that could shape both international basketball and the league itself.

Here are the biggest takeaways from EuroBasket 2025:

Dennis Schroder’s Basketball Hall of Fame legacy case

Dennis Schroder may not always be mentioned among NBA stars, but in the international game, his resume is undeniable. After leading Germany to the FIBA World Cup title and winning the tournament MVP in 2023, Schroder added another jewel to his crown by winning EuroBasket 2025 MVP and carrying Germany to the top once again.

Schroder has become the face of German basketball alongside star forward Franz Wagner, pushing the program to unprecedented heights. When people discuss European powers, France and Spain usually dominate the conversation. Yet Germany now stands on its own, fueled by Schroder’s relentless playmaking, clutch shot-making, and leadership. With a World Cup MVP and EuroBasket MVP on his resume, along with nearly a decade of steady NBA production, his case for the Basketball Hall of Fame is gaining traction.

Germany basketball at an all-time high

Germany’s rise is more than just Schroder. This is a golden era for German basketball, with Franz Wagner, Isaac Bonga, and Daniel Theis playing key roles around their floor general. For years, the country was in the shadow of Dirk Nowitzki’s greatness – and the question was whether Germany would ever have another era of prominence.

That question has been answered emphatically. Germany is now a top-tier international contender and has firmly cemented itself among the best programs in Europe aside from France. With the mix of veteran leadership and young stars, they are just starting to realize their prime potential.

Alperen Sengun’s leap is no fluke

One of the most exciting developments at EuroBasket was Alperen Sengun’s dominance for his country, Turkey. The 22-year-old center showcased a more polished offensive game, combining his already elite passing with improved scoring touch and confidence. His performances were not only encouraging for Turkey’s future but also a preview of what could be a breakout NBA season with the Houston Rockets.

Sengun has steadily improved each year in the league, but EuroBasket offered a glimpse of a player who could make the leap to another level next season. Surrounded by newly acquired Kevin Durant, Houston’s core and bolstered by international experience, Sengun is positioned to anchor the Rockets’ rise in the West. EuroBasket confirmed that his skillset isn’t just flashy – it’s sustainable at the highest levels of competition.

Lauri Markkanen shines for Finland – but what about Utah?

For the second straight international tournament, Lauri Markkanen looked like an absolute star. Finland made their deepest run ever – finishing 4th – and Markkanen’s scoring, rebounding, and leadership were undeniable. He has blossomed into a true centerpiece on the world stage, a player who can carry a team offensively and give them a fighting chance against elite competition.

The irony, however, is that his NBA team, the Utah Jazz, has been in rebuilding mode. While Markkanen puts up All-Star numbers and shows he’s capable of being a star on a playoff team, Utah appears to remain focused on the long game. The question now looms: how long can Markkanen stay patient? His EuroBasket dominance only reinforces that he may be better suited on a contending team where his talent could shine under brighter lights.

Giannis carries Greece to the bronze

If there was any doubt about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s ability to elevate his national team, EuroBasket 2025 erased it. The two-time NBA MVP carried Greece to a bronze medal, delivering monster stat lines and putting the team on his back night after night. His dominance was a reminder of his ability to impose his will no matter the setting, regardless of the supporting cast around him.

For the Milwaukee Bucks, this is an encouraging sign. After another disappointing playoff exit in the NBA, Giannis’ hunger and determination were on full display. His international performance could very well foreshadow a massive season in Milwaukee, as the superstar looks to reclaim championship glory.

Slim Luka and Locked-In Jokic

Two of the NBA’s brightest stars also made headlines in EuroBasket: Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic. Luka arrived in noticeably better shape, showcasing improved conditioning that allowed him to Doncic his brilliance deeper into games. Slovenia may not have gone all the way, but Doncic’s playmaking and scoring kept them competitive throughout the tournament. A slimmer, sharper Luka spells trouble for the NBA, where conditioning has sometimes been his biggest critique.

Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic looked every bit the “Batman” of international basketball. The reigning NBA Finals MVP returned to Serbia’s lineup and dominated, reminding everyone why he’s widely considered the best player in the world. Jokic’s effortless blend of scoring, passing, and rebounding carried over seamlessly, and Serbia looked formidable with him at the helm. Both players appear primed for another First Team All-NBA campaign.

The bigger picture

EuroBasket 2025 was a reminder of how international basketball continues to shape the NBA. Players like Schroder and Giannis showcased their ability to elevate entire nations, while rising stars like Sengun and Markkanen flashed the type of potential that can alter their NBA franchises’ trajectories. At the same time, household names like Luka and Jokic sharpened their tools ahead of another grueling NBA season.

As the league gears up for the 2025-26 campaign, these performances provide early hints at who could dominate in the months ahead. From Germany’s rise to Giannis’ hunger and Sengun’s growth, EuroBasket offered more than just a summer tournament – it was a preview of storylines that will define the NBA season.