NBA MVP Nikola Jokic stunned in “upset of the century”
Despite scoring 33 points, Jokic could not prevent Serbia’s EuroBasket elimination at the hands of Lauri Markkanen’s Finland.
Nikola Jokic may be a three-time NBA MVP, but that wasn’t enough to stop Serbia from suffering a shock EuroBasket elimination at the hands of Finland, which even FIBA has labeled the “upset of the century.”
Serbia among the tournament favorites
The Serbs, captained by Clippers guard Bogdan Bogdanovic and also featuring the Heat’s Nikola Jovic and Tristan Vukcevic of the Wizards, were the favorites to win the competition. They had hoped to erase memories of their round of 16 exit in 2022, but history repeated itself.
Finland delivers historic performance
It turns out lightning can strike twice. A strong second-half showing from Finland, led by Jazz All-Star Lauri Markkanen, knocked out the team currently ranked No. 2 in the FIBA World Ranking.
Jokic shines but can’t carry Serbia
Not that the Nuggets superstar underperformed. Jokic top-scored with 33 points and registered eight rebounds and four assists, both team highs. Still, he was unable to prevent a second successive premature EuroBasket exit, a result that will send shockwaves through Serbian and European basketball.
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