GIBRALTAR (Gibraltar) - A repeat of the 2024 Final between defending champions Andorra and unbeaten Malta is now set for Sunday's FIBA European Championship for Small Countries 2026 title game in Gibraltar.
Andorra defeated hosts Gibraltar 91-42 after taking full control of the contest from the second quarter onwards.
Gibraltar tied the game at 17-17 at the end of the first quarter thanks to a buzzer-beating three-pointer. However, Andorra quickly took control in the second period through efficient scoring inside the paint and strong defensive pressure.
Four players scored in double digits for the defending champions, who shot 61.5% from two-point range and gradually extended their lead throughout the second half. Strong ball movement also helped Andorra control the tempo of the game after halftime.
Jamie McGrail led Gibraltar with 17 points; however, the hosts struggled offensively for long stretches after their energetic opening quarter.
Malta booked their place in the Final with a 99-60 victory over San Marino in the second Semi-Final. The 2018 champions were tested early and briefly fell behind late in the second quarter as San Marino stayed competitive through strong three-point shooting.
However, Malta gradually found their rhythm through improved ball movement and scoring inside the paint before taking full control during the second half. Jordan Tucker led the way with 28 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal as Malta maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Malta have lost their previous two Final appearances and have the chance to avenge their 2024 Final loss to Andorra, while San Marino and Gibraltar will meet in the Third-Place Game.
Final: Malta vs Andorra
Third-Place Game: San Marino vs Gibraltar
FIBA