Shock and anticipation fill the air as Finland prepares to take on Georgia in the EuroBasket 2025 quarterfinals. Just days after shocking the basketball world by eliminating Serbia and three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić, Finland now faces another tough test in Riga, Latvia. Lauri Markkanen, the face of Finnish basketball, remains the focal point of the matchup.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Georgia, a rising force in European basketball, has powered its way into the quarterfinals on the back of a dominant frontcourt and steady team play. Finland, meanwhile, has thrived with a balance of speed, spacing, and unselfish ball movement that has carried them further than many predicted. With elimination on the line, the absence or presence of their NBA All-Star could make all the difference.

So, will Lauri Markkanen play tonight? Yes, the Utah Jazz forward is fully healthy and expected to be in action for Finland. His performances so far have been pivotal, not just with his scoring and rebounding, but also with his ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities for his teammates. Against Georgia’s physical front line, his versatility will be critical as Finland looks to continue its dream run.

Markkanen’s consistency has been a steadying force throughout EuroBasket. He has not only led Finland in scoring at 26 PPG but has also drawn defensive attention that frees up teammates to thrive. His ability to operate inside-out makes him one of the most difficult matchups in the tournament, and Georgia will have to dedicate significant resources to slowing him down.

At the same time, Finland’s supporting cast has stepped up in crucial moments. Role players have delivered defensive intensity and timely shooting, complementing Markkanen’s star power. If they can maintain that balance tonight, Finland could find itself on the brink of their greatest basketball achievement yet.

Where to watch the Finland vs Georgia matchup in the United States?

The EuroBasket 2025 quarterfinal tips off at Arena Riga in Latvia, a stage that has already hosted several dramatic games this summer. Georgia leans on its physicality, with the Magic‘s Goga Bitadze operating as the offensive anchor and the Raptors‘ Sandro Mamukelashvili providing versatility as a stretch forward. Their ability to control the paint while also stepping out to shoot has made them one of the trickier teams to prepare for in the knockout rounds.

Tip-off: September 10, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM ET / Local Time: 17:00 (GMT+3)
Location: Arena Riga, Latvia
Where to Watch: FIBA’s official streaming platform, Courtside 1891 (available via DAZN)

Finland’s strength lies in its tempo and cohesion. The backcourt has excelled in orchestrating the offense, making quick reads and ensuring the team’s trademark ball movement stays sharp. Combined with Markkanen’s ability to attack mismatches inside and out, the Finns have become one of the tournament’s most efficient offenses. Georgia’s defense will need to be disciplined to keep up with their pace and spacing.

This game also carries historic significance. Georgia is chasing what would be its first-ever semifinal berth at EuroBasket, while Finland is already in uncharted waters, seeking to extend the best run in the nation’s modern basketball history. For both countries, tonight’s outcome could redefine their place on the European basketball map.