Top 10 Duels to watch in the February FIBA Continental Cups Qualifiers window
With the final window of FIBA Continental Cups qualification fast approaching, plenty of tickets are still up for grabs, setting the stage for a thrilling showcase of basketball talent. As teams battle to secure their spots in FIBA EuroBasket 2025, Asia Cup 2025, AmeriCup 2025, and AfroBasket 2025, fans around the world can expect high-stakes matchups featuring some of the game’s biggest names.
From EuroLeague stars to international legends and cult heroes, this qualification window—kicking off on February 20, 2025—promises neck-and-neck duels between some of the best talents from across the world. Below, we highlight some of the most exciting individual matchups to watch!
You can watch all FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers, FIBA AfroBasket 2025, AmeriCup 2025, and Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers live and on demand on Courtside 1891*.
Davis Bertans vs Santi Yusta – Latvia vs Spain (Thursday, Feb 20, 18:30 CET)
Hosts Latvia will have a taste of what’s to come in the summer as La Familia travels to Arena Riga for a matchup basketball fans are getting used to recently.
Latvia and Spain have developed what’s looking like an unusual rivalry, started with an upset at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where Davis Bertans’ 16 points fueled an incredible Latvia comeback, ultimately leading to Spain being eliminated from contention.
Episode two saw Luca Banchi’s team spoil Ricky Rubio’s return in Zaragoza with another close win.
Sergio Scariolo will want to make sure that Spain, now qualified after their scare in last year’s February window, get one back over Latvia. A game that will likely be determined by the form of the two nations’ top dogs, Davis Bertans and Santi Yusta.
Bertans has a significant NBA pedigree, having played for the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Charlotte Hornets before making the switch to Dubai. He has adapted well, averaging 11 points per game in the Adriatic League.
Meanwhile, Santi Yusta, a former Real Madrid player, is having a strong season in Spain, averaging just shy of 10 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. However, his most defining moment came in Spain’s crucial showdown against Slovakia, where he pulled off a miracle finish to keep his nation’s qualification hopes alive.
With only 0.4 seconds left on the clock, Slovakia had possession and led 67-64, seemingly sealing Spain’s fate. Yet, in a moment of sheer brilliance, Yusta read the inbound pass perfectly, leaped into the passing lane, and intercepted the ball mid-air. Before his feet even touched the ground, he launched a desperate, one-motion three-pointer—and it swished through the net as the buzzer sounded.
The Spanish bench erupted as the impossible had happened: the game was tied and heading into overtime. Riding the momentum of Yusta’s heroics, Spain ultimately outlasted Slovakia in double OT, securing a 76-72 victory that kept their EuroBasket dreams alive.
Now, Yusta is back in a squad looking for consistency and revenge on Latvia—who will have the last say at Arena Riga?
Cedi Osman vs Nico Mannion – Türkiye vs Italy (Thursday, Feb 20, 18:30 CET)
Both Türkiye and Italy have already secured their spots in FIBA EuroBasket 2025, but this clash in Istanbul will be more than just a formality. Ergin Ataman, with his EuroLeague-heavy squad, will want to test some combinations ahead of the summer tournament.
One of the most exciting matchups will see Cedi Osman face off against Nico Mannion in a duel between a seasoned EuroLeague veteran and a rising star.
Osman, who returned to Europe from the San Antonio Spurs, has been thriving at Panathinaikos, averaging 12.3 points per game in the GBL and 8 points in the EuroLeague under Ergin Ataman's guidance. His 39% three-point shooting makes him a constant perimeter threat, and his ability to stretch the floor will be critical for Türkiye’s offense. His performances against Hungary in the previous window, where he dropped 21 and 33 points in back-to-back games, proved he can take over when needed.
On the other side, Nico Mannion, a former Golden State Warriors guard, has been excelling with Olimpia Milano, where he is shaping himself into a high-IQ playmaker and a threatening scorer. His ability to orchestrate the offense and efficiently attack the rim makes him a key player for Gianmarco Pozzecco’s Italy. His recent 14-point, 3-assist outing in the EuroLeague against Osman’s Panathinaikos showcased his ability to determine at EuroLeague level. Is the Siena-born point guard ready to take over this Italian national team?
With both players playing crucial roles for their respective teams, this duel could set the tone for the game. Will Türkiye defend their home court, or will Mannion guide Italy to another victory on the road?
Mario Hezonja vs Theo Maledon – Croatia vs France (Friday, Feb 21, 2025, 8:00 PM CET)
While Croatia faces a must-win scenario to keep their EuroBasket qualification hopes alive, France has all but secured their spot in the tournament and will treat this matchup as an opportunity to test different rotations and solidify their game plan ahead of the summer. With a deep roster filled with EuroLeague and NBA talent, Les Bleus will travel to Zadar keen to take care of business and take all of the drama out of their home game against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For Croatia, however, this is do-or-die. A loss here could all but end their chances of securing a direct qualification, meaning the pressure will be on players like Mario Hezonja to step up in front of a passionate home crowd in Zadar. Can Croatia rise to the occasion against a stacked French side, or will France’s depth and structure prove too much?
Mario Hezonja, one of Croatia’s most dominant scorers, has been carrying the national team with consistent 22+ point performances, including a double-double against Cyprus. His ability to take over games was evident in the last qualification window, where he averaged 23.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, showing his all-around dominance.
On the opposite side, Theo Maledon, currently shining with ASVEL in the EuroLeague, has emerged as one of the most promising French guards. With a skill set tailored for modern basketball, Maledon excels in pick-and-roll situations, thrives in transition, and provides perimeter defense with a 6’4” frame. Despite being just 23 years old, he already boasts a EuroBasket silver medal, proving his ability to contribute at the highest level.
The two players crossed paths in club competitions, with Maledon’s ASVEL facing Hezonja’s Real Madrid in the EuroLeague on December 3, 2024. It was Maledon who put on a clinic, steering his team to a crucial 80-78 victory with a masterful performance. The French guard erupted for 23 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds, dictating the pace of the game and slicing through Real Madrid’s defense with ease.
Hezonja, despite his best efforts, had a solid offensive night but struggled against ASVEL’s relentless pressure. The Croatian forward finished with 19 points, 3 rebounds, and 0 assists, shooting 7-for-14 from the field. While he found ways to score, ASVEL’s perimeter defense limited his efficiency from deep, causing him to go 2/10 from downtown.
Maledon dictated the pace of the game, using his quick first step to penetrate Real Madrid’s defense and either finish at the rim or find open teammates. His combination of offensive threat and ability to control the game’s tempo were key factors in ASVEL’s victory. After the game, French basketball legend Tony Parker, now ASVEL’s president, praised Maledon’s leadership, stating: “Theo showed tonight that he’s ready for the biggest stages. He was in control from start to finish, and his growth has been incredible to watch.”
With Maledon coming into the February window in top form, Croatia will need Hezonja at his very best to counter the rising star’s influence. Can the Croatian veteran make up for his December struggles, or will Maledon once again prove why he is one of France’s brightest talents?
Tony Parker has not been short of praise for Maledon’s development, stating: “Theo has the tools to be a leader at the international level. His decision-making is improving, and I see him as a key piece of France’s future.”
As Hezonja leads a Croatian team desperate for a signature win, and Maledon looks to steer Les Bleus to another EuroBasket appearance, this clash in Zadar will give us another chance to look at two of Europe's finest talents competing against each other. Will Hezonja’s experience and scoring prowess prove too much, or will Maledon lead France to victory?
Tremont Waters vs Robert Covington – Puerto Rico vs United States (Thursday, February 20 2025, 20:10 AST )
Few international basketball matchups in the "New Continent" hold as much weight as Puerto Rico vs. the United States. This window’s clash will be no exception, as both teams bring stacked rosters into battle.
Puerto Rico will rely on Tremont Waters, the former Boston Celtics guard, who led Los Gallos at the FIBA World Cup 2023 by dropping 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 11 assists against Karl-Anthony Towns’ Dominican Republic. Waters, currently playing for the Shanghai Sharks, been shining in China, averaging 16.5 points and 8 assists per game in the CBA, proving that his offensive impact is as potent as ever. He also recently posted 28 points, 9 assists, and 4 steals in Puerto Rico’s victory over Mexico in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments, showing he can be the go-to-guy in Jose Alvarado's absence.
On the other side, Robert Covington will anchor Team USA’s defense. The 2018 NBA All-Defense first-team selection brings elite defensive versatility and three-point shooting to the American squad. Covington has been playing a crucial role off the bench for the Philadelphia 76ers, adding reliable perimeter shooting at 38% from three-point range, while still maintaining his signature defensive prowess, averaging 1.8 steals and 1.2 blocks per game.
The last time these teams met, Covington put up 15 points, helping Team USA to a dominant win. However, Puerto Rico played them close for three quarters before falling apart late.
Both teams have offensive firepower, but this duel may ultimately come down to whether Waters can break down USA’s perimeter defense, or if Covington can limit his effectiveness with his length and defensive instincts. Will Waters’ offensive brilliance be enough to turn the tables, or will Team USA keep their Group D leadership?
Andreas Obst vs Sasha Vezenkov – Germany vs Bulgaria (Sunday, Feb 23, 2025, 5:30 PM CET)
The 2023 FIBA World Cup champions, Germany, are not yet guaranteed a FIBA EuroBasket 2025 berth, making this a potentially must-win game as they take on a dangerous Bulgaria side led by one of Europe’s most dominant scorers, Sasha Vezenkov.
Andreas Obst, a sharpshooter for Bayern Munich, played a pivotal role in Germany’s World Cup run, notably dropping 24 points against Team USA in the semifinals, propelling his squad to the final. He has continued that momentum into this season, averaging 14.2 points per game on 42% three-point shooting in the EuroLeague and Bundesliga. Obst’s ability to stretch the floor and knock down tough perimeter shots makes him one of Germany’s most dangerous weapons.
However, standing in his way is Sasha Vezenkov, the 2022-2023 EuroLeague MVP and a player whose scoring ability makes him a nightmare for any defense. Now back with Olympiacos after a stint in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings, Vezenkov is averaging 20.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, proving that his elite offensive production remains intact. His combination of elite three-point shooting, high basketball IQ, and solid post skills makes him the focal point of Bulgaria’s attack.
Vezenkov has already torched Bayern Munich for 45 points in a EuroLeague matchup, proving how lethal he can be when given space. His ability to move without the ball and exploit defensive mismatches has made him one of the most difficult players to guard in European basketball. All the more impressive, he did so whilst only dribbling three times in the entire game.
This game could determine Germany’s qualification fate and provide Vezenkov with another chance to prove why he remains one of Europe’s most dominant forwards. Will Obst lead Germany to EuroBasket 2025, or will Vezenkov inspire Bulgaria to another statement victory?
Die Mannschaft will want to make sure they take care of business in Podgorica before they host the Bulgarians in Bamberg.
Wenyen Gabriel vs Jordan Sakho – South Sudan vs DR Congo (Saturday, Feb 23, 2025, 7:00 PM UTC)
One of the biggest upsets of the November FIBA Continental Cups Qualifiers window was DR Congo’s win over South Sudan, ending the Bright Stars’ 11-game unbeaten streak on African soil. South Sudan looked in control for much of the contest before DR Congo stormed back, forcing an overtime and eventually securing a 92-88 victory.
Wenyen Gabriel, the dominant Panathinaikos big man, was exceptional in the previous matchup, leading South Sudan with 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks. His versatility in the paint, rim protection, and rebounding were key to South Sudan’s dominance before their collapse in the final minutes. Gabriel will be hungry to reclaim the spotlight, especially as South Sudan aims to prove their loss was a fluke.
However, Jordan Sakho, currently playing for Rio Breogan in Liga ACB, was just as effective. The Congolese big man countered Gabriel’s production with 18 points and 11 rebounds, leading his team to a shocking overtime victory. His physicality in the paint and ability to finish through contact made him a nightmare for South Sudan’s defense. Sakho’s rebounding, particularly on the offensive end, gave DR Congo crucial second-chance opportunities that turned the game in their favor.
Both teams are battling for AfroBasket 2025 qualification, and this rematch in Rabat will be one to watch in both teams' fight for group leadership. Can Gabriel and South Sudan get back on track, or will Sakho and DR Congo pull off another upset?
Tornike Shengelia vs Iffe Lundberg – Georgia vs Denmark (Friday, Feb 21, 2025, 18:00 CET)
With both teams fighting for a EuroBasket berth, this game carries massive importance for Georgia and Denmark. Georgia sits at 2-2, while Denmark, at 1-3, faces an even steeper climb to qualification.
Georgia, led by Virtus Bologna’s Tornike Shengelia, has been the heart of their squad. Averaging 23.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in the qualifiers, Shengelia has been a dominant force. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his leadership on both ends of the floor, makes him Georgia’s most dangerous weapon. In their November matchup against Finland, Shengelia dropped 27 points in a crucial win that kept Georgia in contention, just after playing for his club in the EuroLeague the previous night.
Denmark, meanwhile, will rely on their own EuroLeague star, Iffe Lundberg. The Partizan playmaker has been Denmark’s go-to option, averaging 20.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game in the qualifiers. His ability to create shots off the dribble, combined with his vision in the half-court offense, has made him a nightmare for defenses. Denmark struggled against Serbia in their last game, but Lundberg still managed to stand out in the loss.
With a EuroBasket ticket potentially on the line, this duel between Shengelia and Lundberg will be crucial in determining who stays in contention. Will Georgia defend home court, or can Lundberg lead Denmark to an upset victory in Tbilisi?
Corey Webster vs Justin Brownlee – Philippines vs New Zealand (Saturday, Feb 23, 2025, 3:00 PM NZDT)
A rematch of the 93-89 thriller in Manila, this showdown between New Zealand and the Philippines is one of the most anticipated games of the February window.
In their last encounter, Justin Brownlee and Kai Sotto led Gilas Pilipinas to a dramatic victory, marking a breakthrough against their Tall Blacks rivals. Brownlee, the naturalized Filipino star, was spectacular, dropping 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists, nearly securing a triple-double in a crucial win. His ability to take over in crunch time, whether as a scorer or a playmaker, was the key to the Philippines' victory.
However, Corey Webster was just as lethal for New Zealand, finishing with 25 points on 9-for-15 shooting. The veteran sharpshooter used his experience and scoring prowess to keep the Tall Blacks competitive throughout the game. Webster’s deep three-point shooting and ability to create off the dribble forced the Philippines to adjust their defensive scheme throughout the contest.
With Sotto now sidelined due to an ACL injury, Brownlee will have an even greater role for Gilas, needing to lead the charge once again. Meanwhile, Webster and New Zealand will be looking for revenge, hoping to use home-court advantage to reclaim the upper hand in this growing rivalry.
Can Brownlee deliver another masterclass, or will Webster lead New Zealand to revenge in Auckland?
Tomas Satoransky vs Kostas Papanikolaou – Czechia vs Greece (Friday, Feb 21, 2025, 20:00 CET)
Two EuroLeague veterans with NBA experience will go head-to-head in what could be a decisive matchup for Czechia’s EuroBasket 2025 hopes. Czechia is still in the hunt for qualification, while Greece has almost secured its spot, making this a game that both teams will want to win.
Tomas Satoransky, the FC Barcelona point guard, is the heartbeat of the Czech team. Averaging 15.4 points, 8.7 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game in the qualifiers, Satoransky’s elite playmaking and decision-making have been crucial for Czechia’s offense. His ability to control the tempo and find open teammates, combined with his experience in high-pressure games, makes him one of the most dangerous floor generals in Europe.
Meanwhile, Kostas Papanikolaou, a legend for Olympiacos Piraeus, is leading Greece with his basketball IQ, defensive toughness, and ability to space the floor. The versatile forward is averaging 12.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game in the qualifiers while being a vocal leader on and off the court. His vast experience in international tournaments and ability to guard multiple positions make him one of Greece’s most reliable players.
Greece dominated the first meeting between these two teams, winning 88-75, but Czechia kept it close for three quarters. If Satoransky can dictate the pace and find ways to break down Greece’s disciplined defense, Czechia could pull off a critical victory. However, if Papanikolaou and Greece impose their physicality and defensive intensity early, Hellenic basketball's trip to Czechia might be easier.
Can Satoransky orchestrate a Czech upset, or will Papanikolaou ensure Greece continues its dominance?
Kamar Baldwin vs Filip Petrušev – Georgia vs Serbia (Sunday, Feb 23, 2025, 18:00 CET)
A key battle in Georgia’s quest for EuroBasket qualification will see Kamar Baldwin take on Filip Petrušev, with Baldwin looking to outmaneuver Serbia’s size advantage while Petrušev aims to dominate the paint with his physicality and skill set.
Kamar Baldwin, the explosive point guard for Georgia, has been a revelation in this qualification window. Baldwin, who plays for Baskonia in the Spanish Liga ACB, has been the Crusaders' floor general, averaging 22.5 points, 5.5 assists, and 6.5 rebounds per game. His quick first step and ability to create his own shot make him one a tough one-on-one threat. Baldwin thrives in isolation and pick-and-roll situations, using his quick release and mid-range ability to punish defenses. His defensive intensity and quick hands also make him an underrated defender on passing lanes, disrupting opposing ball handlers and creating transition opportunities for Georgia.
Filip Petrušev, meanwhile, has been Serbia’s interior anchor. The Crvena Zvezda forward, on loan from Olympiacos, has been dominant in the paint, averaging 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. His ability to control the glass, finish in traffic, and stretch the floor with his shooting makes him a difficult matchup for any opponent.
The last time these two teams met, Serbia secured a comfortable 92-78 victory, with Petrušev contributed 11 points and 8 rebounds, with a 21 efficiency score (team leading). Georgia will need Baldwin and Shengelia to orchestrate a near-perfect offensive performance if they hope to pull off an upset.
Will Baldwin’s shot-making and playmaking be enough to trouble Serbia, or will Petrušev and Serbia’s size dominate once again?
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