HAMBURG (Germany) - Group D hosts Germany had to hold off a spirited fightback from Sweden to open their FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 account, while Spain showed their teeth in a big way by breezing past Great Britain. The two victors will lock horns on Gameday 2 with the chance of possibly locking up an early Quarter-Finals spot awaiting.
Hosts up and running after strong start
Germany led by as many as 18 points against Sweden before eventually settling for an 89-76 triumph in front of a soldout crowd of 3414 in Hamburg.
Luisa Geiselsoder top scored with 20 points in the win, while there was an impressive double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds from Frieda Buhner, with Leonie Fiebich weighing in with 16 points and seven boards.
The hosts pulled clear with a 27-16 opening quarter and looked in total command going into the half-time break. Sweden showed fight after the break and gave the home crowd - including German legend Dirk Nowitzki in attendance - a scare as they pulled within six points.
However, Germany were able to repel their opponents by coming out on top in a high-scoring final period. Veteran guard Frida Elderbrink had a game-high 22 points in defeat for Sweden.
Spain show podium potential as they turn the page
With a number of exciting young guns in their lineup including Awa Fam and Iyana Martin, Spain gave a glimpse of an exciting future as they stormed past Great Britain 85-70. While their opponents kept pace in the early stages, Spain put their foot to the metal and pulled out a stunning 30-12 second period.
Martin came off the bench with a scoring effort that returned 14 points on her tournament debut. Helena Pueyo posted an all-action display that impressed at both ends of the floor as she harvested 9 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals - as did Mariona Ortiz with 8 points, 7 assists and 5 boards. Sam Ashby led Great Britain with 17 points.
FIBA