10 Games you won't want to miss in February's FIBA Continental Cups Qualifiers Window
The February window for the FIBA Continental Cups Qualifiers is approaching, and with the final window come high stakes and basketball drama, as teams battle for the last remaining tickets to the summer FIBA competitions.
Below, we detail 10 matches you can’t afford to miss out on! Watch all the action from the February FIBA Continental Cups qualifiers on Courtside 1891*.
China vs Japan, Shenzhen Sports Center, February 20, 2025, 7:30 PM (GMT+8)
When China and Japan meet on the international stage, it’s never just another game.
Even less so in this chapter of their eternal rivalry—one in which Team Dragon reigned supreme for nearly nine decades before the Akatsuki finally broke through, securing their first major tournament victory over China since the 1930s.
The showdown last February was an instant classic. Japan, trailing by 11 points midway through the second quarter, mounted a comeback in front of a delirious, sold-out Ariake Coliseum.
But Chinese basketball fans have long memories, and they’ve circled February 20, 2025 as the date The Great Wall looks to restore order. The stage is set at Shenzhen Sports Center, where China will seek revenge and reassert dominance over their fiercest regional rival.
If motivation alone wasn’t enough, Japan enters this contest without star forward Yuta Watanabe, while China have their sharpest weapon in their arsenal: Yang Hansen.
The 19-year-old rising star has been a revelation for the Qingdao Eagles, averaging 16.1 points and 10 rebounds per game in the CBA. Playing with improved efficiency, he’s given head coach Guo Shiqiang and Chinese fans the confidence to believe China is ready to overpower Japan and punch its ticket to the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
However, there’s always a price to pay if you take the Akatsuki lightly. Their qualification being already punched won’t mean they’ll not try to start an era of their own in this rivalry: the era of Japan basketball.
Croatia vs. France, Jazine Arena, February 21, 2025, 8:00 PM (CET)
As the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers approach their business end, the upcoming clash between Croatia and France at Jazine Arena in Zadar could be crucial for both teams.
For France (4-0), a victory would secure their spot in the EuroBasket 2025 tournament. Meanwhile, Croatia (2-2) faces a challenging scenario: they must not only win but do so by a margin of at least 13 points to keep their qualification hopes alive.
In their previous meeting, France secured a 73-61 victory over Croatia in Brest, underscoring their defensive strength and depth. This result adds pressure on Croatia to overturn the point differential in the upcoming match, if they want tiebreaker advantage.
Both teams have announced their rosters for this decisive February window, with notable selections and absences shaping the dynamics of the forthcoming game.
Croatia, a nation that should never be counted out as Luka Doncic’s Slovenia team experienced at the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments, has called up it’s A-Team.
Mario Hezonja will lead the Croatians out in Zadar, partnered by EuroLeague talent in Luka Samanic and Danko Brankovic. Jaleen Smith is back in a tough challenge in front of the Croatians fans, as Les Bleus approach.
Even without Evan Fournier (Personal) and Jaylen Hoard (injured), the talent at Frédéric Fauthoux’s disposal is nothing to scoff at: Theo Maledon, Isaia Cordinier, Elie Okobo and Vincent Poirier highlight a competitive squad, ready to take care of business.
In Brest, Jaleen Smith and Mario Hezonja had a torrid time offensively, logging a combined 4/15 from deep, with France’s perimeter defense prevailing over the Croatian’s scoring.
Offensively, Luwawu-Cabarrot, Guerschon Yabusele and Matthias Lessort (a big absence for Les Blues after a horrible injury against Baskonia) led France to a 12-point win.
Will Croatia’s talent enable them to make what seems like an impossible challenge possible? Or will France punch their tickets for their FIBA EuroBasket 2025 pursuit? As Hezonja vs Maledon gets closer, both teams prepare for a tough night in Zadar.
South Sudan vs. Democratic Republic of Congo, Rabat, Morocco, February 23, 2025, 9:00 PM (GMT)
In a highly anticipated rematch, South Sudan is set to face the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Rabat, Morocco, on February 23, 2025, at 9:00 PM GMT. This crucial game will determine the leadership of Group A in the FIBA AfroBasket 2025 Qualifiers.
The previous encounter between these two teams was a historic one. On November 24, 2024, DRC ended South Sudan's impressive two-year unbeaten streak on African soil with a thrilling 76-69 overtime victory in Dakar. This defeat marked South Sudan's first loss since August 27, 2022, highlighting DRC's rising prominence in African basketball.
A focal point of the upcoming match is the anticipated duel between Wenyen Gabriel of South Sudan and Jordan Sakho of DRC.
Gabriel, starring for Ergin Ataman’s Panathinaikos, is posting 14 points and 10.5 rebounds per contest in the FIBA AfroBasket 2025 Qualifiers, and will look to exact his revenge on the team that ended the Bright Star’s unbeaten run.
On the other hand, Sakho has been a cornerstone for DRC, especially during their undefeated run in the previous qualification window. His defense, toughness, and ability to control the paint were crucial in DRC's victory over South Sudan, where he played a significant role on both ends of the court.
This matchup not only features two of Africa's premier basketball talents but also carries significant implications for group supremacy, although both nations will want to have their tickets punched by February 23.
Georgia vs. Denmark, Tbilisi Arena, February 21, 2025, 9:00 PM (GMT+4)
A spot at EuroBasket 2025 is on the line as the Crusaders host the Danish Dynamite at Tbilisi Arena. The stakes couldn’t be higher—a win secures Georgia’s qualification, while Denmark, armed with the tiebreaker advantage, is fighting to keep their own path open.
The last time these two met, Denmark stunned the Crusaders 75-69 in Naestved, rallying in the fourth quarter to take control. Iffe Lundberg led the charge with a commanding performance, dictating the tempo and delivering when it mattered most. Tornike “Toko” Shengelia responded with 27 points, but Georgia fell short, a defeat they have not forgotten.
This time, the setting is different. The Crusaders will have the home crowd behind them, and Shengelia, their captain and talisman, will look to impose himself early. On the other side, Lundberg, who has been Denmark’s heartbeat throughout the qualifiers, will need another inspired outing to keep their hopes alive.
This time, it looks like EA7 Emporio Armani Milan star Shavon Shields will join the selection, providing much-needed offensive support to the Partizan star as they head up to Tbilisi with one goal in mind: winning, and getting their destiny back in their own hands.
The Jvarosnebi will feel confident after sweeping Finland in November, but are aware that a slip-up might cost them their chances: their loss against the Danes last February means that they would not have tiebreaker advantage, and a mountain to climb as they play unbeaten Serbia in the final day of the qualifiers.
The battle between Shengelia and Lundberg will be central to the game’s outcome. Two of the most experienced players in this qualifier window, they will be expected to set the tone for their teams. Georgia sees this as their moment. The Danish Dynamite knows the task is hard, but possible. Something has to give.
Montenegro vs. Germany, Sports Centre Morača, February 20, 2025, 7:00 PM (CET)
In a pivotal Group D matchup of the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers, leader Montenegro is set to host Germany at the Sports Centre Morača in Podgorica on February 20, 2025, with tip-off at 7:00 PM CET. This game carries significant weight, as both teams are vying for a top spot in their group.
The last encounter between these two teams took place on February 22, 2024, in Ludwigsburg, Germany, where the hosts secured a convincing 85-61 victory over Montenegro.
In that game, Oscar Da Silva led the German squad with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, showcasing his versatility and impact on the court. Montenegro struggled to find their rhythm, falling behind early and unable to close the gap.
As the upcoming game approaches, both teams are set to field their strongest available players. Germany's head coach, Álex Mumbrú, has announced a preliminary 16-man squad for the February qualifiers, which includes several world champions, including Andreas Obst from Bayern Munchen and new AS Monaco addition Daniel Theis.
Montenegro are also looking to take care of business, and potentially beat the World Champs as their contingent of European players, including Nikola Ivanovic, Jonah Radebaugh, Dino Radoncic and Marko Todorovic are all ready to suit up for the Crna Gora.
Montenegro, currently leading Group D with a 3-1 record, aims to capitalize on their home-court advantage to secure a win and strengthen their position. Germany, with a 2-2 record, seeks to replicate their previous success against Montenegro to improve their standing in the group.
Will Germany take care of business and punch their tickets to EuroBasket on Thursday, or will it be Montenegro’s turn to celebrate in front of their fans in Podgorica?
Bulgaria vs. Sweden, Arena Botevgrad, February 20, 2025, 7:30 PM (GMT+2)
With a place at the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 qualifiers at stake, Bulgaria and Sweden prepare for a decisive showdown at Arena Botevgrad. Both teams need a win to keep their qualification hopes alive, making this a crucial encounter in the group.
The last time these two met, Sweden claimed an 84-70 victory in Partille. Melwin Pantzar orchestrated the offense with 19 points, while Hristo Zahariev led Bulgaria’s resistance with 17. Now, on home soil, Bulgaria sees this as a chance to settle the score and try to snatch tiebreaker advantage from the Swedes.
With the support of their fans, Bulgaria will rely on Codi Miller-McIntyre, a dynamic creator, currently playing for Crvena Zvezda in the EuroLeague.
Sasha Vezenkov, the 2022-23 EuroLeague MVP and a key piece for Olympiacos Piraeus, back in Bulgaria's squad, brings elite shooting, rebounding, and leadership. His ability to stretch the floor and score in multiple ways will cause sleepless nights in the Sweden camp heading to the Arena Botevgrad.
Stepping out their perimeter defense and limiting transition opportunities will be paramount for Bulgaria, if they want to avoid another costly defeat.
Another slip-up would jeopardize Bulgaria’s chances at making the trip to the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 this summer, but the home side will be confident in their A-Team this time out.
Czechia vs. Greece, Enteria Arena, February 21, 2025, 8:00 PM (GMT+1)
Hellenic Basketball travels to Prague knowing qualification for FIBA EuroBasket 2025 is well within reach. A win secures their spot. Even a loss could do the job if the Netherlands fall to Great Britain.
Czechia, led by Tomas Satoransky, will look to slow that down. The veteran playmaker remains the engine of this squad, controlling tempo and setting up teammates. His leadership is vital as the hosts aim to upset one of Europe’s basketball powerhouses.
Greece brings depth, experience, and top-tier talent. Dinos Mitoglou (Panathinaikos), Kostas Papanikolaou (Olympiacos), and Giorgos Papagiannis (AS Monaco) give head coach Vassilis Spanoulis options all over the floor. With players at the top of the EuroLeague standings for years, Greece's lineup is a scary one to face for any opponent.
Mitoglou provides size and floor-spacing as a modern power forward, Papanikolaou is a defensive stalwart with years of EuroLeague experience, and Papagiannis anchors the paint with his shot-blocking and rebounding. Their mix of skill, physicality, and experience makes Greece a tough cookie to crack, even away from home.
Expect a contrast in styles. Czechia will rely on fluid ball movement and outside shooting. Greece has size, physicality, and a system built on discipline. If Spanoulis’ side controls the boards and imposes its defensive identity, qualification will be a formality. But Satoransky and Czechia won’t go down without a fight, particularly in front of the home fans.
Netherlands vs. Great Britain, Sportcampus Zuiderpark, February 21, 2025, 7:30 PM (GMT+1)
The Netherlands face a do-or-die scenario in FIBA EuroBasket 2025 qualifying. Lose, and their hopes are over. Win, possibly by 5 points or more, and their chances drastically improve. Great Britain, on the other hand, will qualify with a victory, securing their first FIBA EuroBasket appearance since 2017.
The Dutch will lean on Yannick Franke, their go-to scorer with the ability to create his own shot and space the floor. Inside, Matt Haarms will be tasked with controlling the paint, using his length and defensive instincts to challenge Britain’s physical frontcourt.
But they’ll need more than individual brilliance—their defense must tighten after struggling in key moments earlier in the campaign.
Great Britain, coming off an impressive 73-72 win over Greece, showed resilience and execution in crunch time, erasing a late deficit to stun the 2017 champions. Ellis delivered a composed performance, while Hesson's late-game heroics and Olaseni's presence inside proved decisive.
Quinn Ellis, MVP of the Frecciarossa Final Eight 2025 with Dolomiti Energia Trento, will orchestrate the offense. His ability to dictate tempo and create for teammates will be crucial. Myles Hesson, a veteran presence, provides scoring and leadership, while Gabe Olaseni anchors the team inside, offering rebounding and interior defense.
This game is about execution under pressure. The Netherlands must find a way to crack Britain's disciplined defense, while GB will look to build on their recent success and lock up their place at FIBA EuroBasket 2025. Expect a battle with a ticket to summer basketball on the line.
USA vs Puerto Rico, Coliseo de Puerto Rico (San Juan, Puerto Rico), February 22, 2025, 8:10 PM AST
Puerto Rico vs. USA has always carried a certain weight in international basketball. From the Boricuas’ legendary 92-73 upset at the 2004 Olympics—still one of Team USA’s sorest losses—to the countless battles in the FIBA AmeriCup and World Cup qualifiers, this matchup is rarely just another game.
On February 22, the rivalry adds another chapter in San Juan, where the atmosphere promises to be electric.
For Puerto Rico, this is more than a game; it's a chance to test themselves against one of basketball’s powerhouses. Leading the charge is Tremont Waters, the 5’10” playmaker whose craft and scoring ability make him a nightmare to guard (ask KAT and the Dominican Republic).
A former LSU standout with NBA experience, Waters has found his groove in the international game, orchestrating Puerto Rico’s offense and becoming a FIBA Cult Hero. George Conditt IV, the 6’10” big man, provides offensive versatility, intensity, and together with Arnaldo Toro Barea provides a good roller for Waters’ ball handling.
On the other side, USA Basketball will roll into San Juan with a roster full of high-level talent, even if it’s not the star-studded Dream Team iteration.
Robert Covington, an NBA veteran known for his defensive versatility, brings leadership and a three-and-D presence that fits well in FIBA play.
Norris Cole, a two-time NBA champion with the Miami Heat, adds veteran presence and a proven ability to step up in big moments. His experience in international tournaments could be a steadying force against Puerto Rico’s relentless defensive pressure.
From a tactical standpoint, expect Puerto Rico to push the tempo. With Waters running the show, they’ll rely on quick ball movement, transition offense, and aggressive perimeter defense to disrupt USA’s rhythm. The Americans, meanwhile, will look to impose their physicality, utilizing Covington’s defensive versatility and their depth in the paint to wear Puerto Rico down over 40 minutes.
Ultimately, this is about pride as much as qualification. Puerto Rico, on their home floor, will be looking to make a statement. The USA, with their blend of veterans and up-and-coming talent, won’t want to let their guard down.
New Zealand vs. Philippines, The Trusts Arena (Auckland, New Zealand), February 22, 2025, 7:00 PM NZDT
The basketball rivalry between New Zealand's Tall Blacks and the Philippines' Gilas Pilipinas is set to intensify as they face off again in Auckland.
In their last encounter during the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, Gilas secured a narrow 93-89 victory, marking their first win over the Tall Blacks in FIBA competition. This loss has undoubtedly fueled New Zealand's desire for redemption on their home court.
A significant blow for the visitors’ hopes of a second win in this matchup is the absence of Gilas' center, Kai Sotto, who is sidelined due to an ACL injury.
Sotto's presence and playmaking ability have been one of Las Gilas’ main strengths in their marquee win over the Tall Blacks. Without him, Gilas will need to adapt, potentially relying more on a smaller, faster lineup to counter New Zealand's physical play. Veteran big man June Mar Fajardo is expected to shoulder a heavier load inside, but the team's dynamics will undoubtedly shift.
Stepping into the spotlight for the Philippines is veteran journeyman Justin Brownlee. Since joining Gilas, Brownlee has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists per game in the first window of the qualifiers. His versatility and scoring ability make him a focal point of the Philippine offense, especially crucial in Sotto's absence.
For the Tall Blacks, the previous loss serves as motivation to reclaim their dominance. Veteran guard Corey Webster remains a key player, known for his scoring prowess and clutch performances.
In the last matchup against Gilas, Webster contributed significantly, and the team will look to him to lead the offensive charge once more.
The tactical battle will be intriguing. New Zealand is known for its physicality and structured play, often leveraging their size and strength to control the game and play halfcourt offense.
In contrast, the Philippines often opt for a faster-paced gameplan, utilizing their agility and perimeter shooting to offset the Tall Blacks' physical advantages. The absence of Sotto might push Gilas to emphasize ball movement and outside shooting, with players like Dwight Ramos expected to step up.
A win for New Zealand means erasing their only loss in Group B and reclaiming momentum. A win for Gilas—especially without Sotto—would solidify them as a legitimate contender heading into the summer. The Spark Arena will be rocking, and if history tells us anything, this one is going down to the wire.
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