Lauri Markkanen’s performance was one of the hardest performances in EC history.
Lauri Markkanen was completely unstoppable. EPA/AOP
On Sunday, Finland defeated Croatia in the EC basketball quarterfinals 94–86 (20–21, 45–43, 67–65).
At the same time, Susigengi secured a place in the top eight after a 55-year break.
– Still don’t really understand what has happened. It’s probably still going to be an evening while thawing. But we have to remember that we still have the tournament and a chance to achieve even bigger things, having bagged 17 points Sasu Salin glowed in the announcement of the Basketball Association.
– I am extremely proud of this team and how we played. We knew that when we trust our own way of playing, we are strong, and that’s exactly what happened, head coach Lassi Tuovi your sum.
There was no doubt about Susijeng’s number one star, because Lauri Markkanen bagged no less than 43 points.
The performance was Markkanen’s one-game point record and the Finnish men’s national team’s all-time point record. The NBA player’s score was even the tenth highest in the history of the European Championships.
– It was really easy to play. The basket felt really big. When the guys from Croatia started to lose their temper at the end, we knew that now more pökko would be in the nest, Markkanen commented.
Croatia tried to defend aMarkska one on one. Suomalaištahti thanked with several donks.
– Maybe those doublings will start to come at some point, Markkanen joked.
Susijeng’s supporters have been vocal throughout the games. The Finnish fans gave a standing ovation at the end of the match.
– Absolutely incredible feeling. We came into the game with a working game plan and a good look and even though there were a couple of more difficult moments, we stayed together and trusted that we will be a better team in the end, Salin analyzed.
World Champion
Susijeng’s bench rejoiced after the victory was decided. EPA/AOP
Monday is a break in the European Championship. Finland will face the reigning world champion, Spain, in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.
– Everyone who follows basketball knows that Spain is a world-class team. We respect the opponent, but we will go into that match with the same confidence as against Croatia and trust that anything is possible, head coach Tuovi emphasized.
France, Slovenia, Germany and Poland also made their way to the top eight.