Spain, Ten Days Until Eurobasket 2025: Signs of Improvement, Another Loss to France, and Additional Injuries
Defending Champions Spain Face Injury Concerns and Underwhelming Performance Ahead of EuroBasket 2025
Spain, the reigning EuroBasket champions, are facing a challenging road ahead as they prepare for the tournament, which begins on August 27. The team has been hit by a series of injuries, with key players such as NBA forward Santi Aldama, guard Alberto Díaz, and young point guard Mario Saint-Supery sidelined and not practicing, raising concerns about their participation in the tournament.
In a recent friendly match against France, Spain suffered a 78-73 loss, having previously led by 16 points. Mario Saint-Supery injured his ankle in the first quarter of the game but was still named to the 12-man EuroBasket roster. Other players like Dario Brizuela and Alberto Abalde also have physical issues, compounding Spain’s injury crisis.
The team's struggles are further highlighted by their drop in rankings and back-to-back defeats by France in friendly matches, casting doubts on their chances to defend their title.
However, there have been some bright spots for Spain. Willy Hernangomez finished the game with 15 points, the second-highest score for Spain. Santi Yusta scored 19 points off the bench, and his impact on the team is crucial, as Spain doesn't excel in any specific area except for its unity. If Yusta performs well, "La Familia" functions effectively.
One of Yusta's assists, to Willy Hernangomez, was a highlight of Spain's confidence and team play. The Hernangomez brothers were dominant in the first half, scoring points and making solo dunks. The Portland Trail Blazers' G League prospect, Isaac Nogués, also made his debut for Spain and impressed with fearless physical plays, opening the door to potential future national team involvement.
Despite the setbacks, the team's general feeling remains fragile as Eurobasket approaches. Spain's next opponent before the start of EuroBasket 2025 is Germany, with two final friendlies against them pending. Spain has offered little resistance in the second half against France, allowing them to take a strong lead, but they will be hoping to turn things around in the upcoming matches.
References: [1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5]
The average performance of Spain, the defending EuroBasket champions, has been underwhelming in recent friendly matches, with a questionable 78-73 loss to France.Injury concerns loom large for Spain, with key players such as Santi Aldama, Alberto Díaz, and Mario Saint-Supery not practicing, potentially impacting their roster for EuroBasket 2025.
