Serbia's National Basketball Team Aims for EuroBasket Glory in 2025

As the countdown to the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 begins, the Serbian national basketball team is igniting hopes of capturing gold once again. Under the guidance of esteemed coach Svetislav Pesic, who announced the squad on August 27, 2025, the nation is filled with aspirations of triumph as they prepare for a month of intense competition. The EuroBasket tournament is set to take place in Riga, Latvia, from September 14 to October 2, 2025, with Serbia entering as one of the frontrunners due to their impressive track record in international basketball.

Historically, Serbia has been a powerhouse in basketball, securing five major medals over the past 11 years. This includes a strong performance during the FIBA EuroBasket 2022 Group Phase and a commendable showing at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, where they demonstrated their capability on the international stage. Captain Bogdan Bogdanovic, who has been a pivotal player for the team, emphasized the desire for championship success: "We want to finally win the championship. This is our wish, but we know it’s not guaranteed just because of our previous success," he stated during a press conference.

The team’s journey has not been without challenges. Despite their accolades, they narrowly missed out on Olympic glory at the Paris 2024 Games, a setback that has only fueled their determination. In reflecting on the camaraderie and family atmosphere within the team, Nikola Milutinov remarked, "What we did in previous years left a special mark on my life. Not only the medals, but the whole story. Because of everything we’ve been through, this championship is special. We’re only missing one medal."

Coach Svetislav Pesic, a veteran of the sport, acknowledged the immense pressure that accompanies their pursuit of excellence. He noted that the competition at EuroBasket 2025 would be particularly fierce, with several strong teams vying for medals. "We’re in the business of elite sports, and wins and gold medals are what’s expected from us. This event is different compared to Manila and Paris, as this is the strongest competition. We have eight, nine, ten teams fighting for medals," Pesic said, underscoring the competitive landscape of the upcoming tournament.

Among the notable strengths of the Serbian team is the presence of superstars such as Nikola Jokic and Bogdan Bogdanovic, who bring experience and skill to the forefront. Pesic's strategy hinges on fostering team cohesion while preparing for the unique challenges that lie ahead in Riga. The coach’s emphasis on realistic goals reflects a pragmatic approach in a sport where expectations often run high.

While the Serbian players are vocal about their ambitions, they also recognize the importance of maintaining a level head. Bogdanovic shared a unique perspective on visualization, suggesting that some aspirations are best kept private: "When you share it with somebody, it loses value. Those biggest things, they are happening in silence. We’ll keep it to ourselves." This philosophy may serve the team well as they prepare for their journey toward the EuroBasket finals.

With the blend of talent, experience, and a strong support system, Serbia aims to turn their dreams into reality at the FIBA EuroBasket 2025. The team's commitment to excellence, combined with a deep-rooted basketball culture in Serbia, positions them as a formidable contender in the upcoming tournament. As the date approaches, the basketball community eagerly anticipates what promises to be a thrilling display of talent and sportsmanship in Riga.