Great Britain ended a 12-year wait for a EuroBasket victory, defeating Montenegro 89-83 in Tampere on Wednesday.
The triumph closed out GB’s Group B campaign and prevented a third straight 0-5 finish at the tournament. However, the margin was not enough to send them into the Round of 16, as Sweden advanced on point differential.
Myles Hesson delivered a captain’s performance, scoring 25 points with 16 coming before halftime. Akwasi Yeboah provided additional firepower, adding 23 points and five rebounds.
Montenegro leaned heavily on Nikola Vucevic, who finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists in a dominant double-double. Despite his effort, turnovers and defensive lapses allowed GB to control the closing stages.
Great Britain trailed by one after the opening quarter but gained momentum with a 23-16 run in the second. The team maintained its composure in the final three minutes, sinking key free throws to secure the result.
Luke Nelson was instrumental at the guard spot, tallying 12 points and eight assists while knocking down all six of his free throws. Jelani Watson-Gayle added an efficient 11 points off the bench, providing a spark when needed.
Montenegro struggled to contain GB’s pace, especially in transition. Their hot 10-for-13 shooting start could not offset 18 total turnovers, which proved costly in a tight contest.
The win eliminated Montenegro, who joined Great Britain at 1-4 in the group. Both sides finished level with Sweden on points, but Sweden’s superior differential ensured their progression.
