Markkanen erupts for 43, Finland make it two from two

TAMPERE (Finland) – Lauri Markkanen produced his second career 40-point game at FIBA EuroBasket as Finland dismissed Great Britain 109-79 in front of a sold-out crowd of 12,900 at the Tampere Deck Arena.

Markkanen had 29 points and 3 steals in the first half, and ended with 43 points, along with 4 steals in a breathtaking display that ignited the vocal WolfPack fans in attendance.

Turning Point

Finland held the advantage, but was unable to shake off a Great Britain side that wouldn’t go away for most of the first half. However, a four-point play from Markkanen with 11.9 seconds left in the second quarter gave the hosts the necessary lift, and from there, they were in cruise control.

To Great Britain’s credit, they didn’t let their heads drop, and by the halfway point of the third quarter, they were shooting 47 percent from the field, but on this day, they found Markkanen and Finland too hot to handle.

TCL Player of the Game

We were witnesses to another moment of Markkanen magic in Tampere. Along with his jaw-dropping statline, he went 13-for-22 from the field and shot an outstanding 7-for-13 from three-point range.

Markkanen was supported by veteran Sasu Salin, who also shot the ball well, going 7-for-9 from range for 21. Luke Nelson led Great Britain with 13.

Stats Don’t Lie

After crawling over the line against Sweden, Finland knew they had to improve their overall team performance, and this latest win against GB was as complete a showing as you’re going to see.

All 12 of the Susijengi saw playing time and all registered at least a point, and they finished with 17 made three-pointers in the contest.

Bottom Line

Finland remains flawless in their own backyard. They prepare to face Montenegro on Saturday, who will be eager to secure their first win of the FIBA EuroBasket as the Round of 16 conversation begins its infancy. Great Britain will face Sweden in a pivotal battle between the two winless sides in Group B.

They Said

For more quotes, tune in to the official post-game press conference!

FIBA