Luka Doncic almost triple-double, Slovenia won over Israel

Sep 4, 2025 6:12 PM

Luka Doncic-Olympic Debut — Photo: FIBA Basketball

Slovenia secured third in Group D on Thursday as Luka Doncic narrowly missed a historic second triple-double in FIBA EuroBasket history, finishing with 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in a 106-96 victory over Israel, who had hopes of topping the group.

Turning Point

Doncic’s all-around brilliance helped Slovenia build a 15-point lead late in the third quarter at 78-65. Israel fought back to 83-78 while Doncic was briefly off the floor, but once he returned with 7:13 remaining, momentum swung decisively.

He later drilled a dagger shot giving Slovenia a 14-point cushion at 101-87 with 2:22 left, marking his country’s first-ever EuroBasket win over Israel.

TCL Player of the Game

“Do we need to state the obvious?” Slovenia’s captain Luka Doncic commented after the game. “We fought hard, and it’s amazing to see the team execute like this. I’m proud of everyone.”

His near-triple-double and leadership made him the standout performer, finishing with 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists.

Israel’s Deni Avdija countered with a personal EuroBasket career-high of 32 points and 9 rebounds.

“We gave everything, but Slovenia played better tonight,” Avdija said. He became the second Israeli player, after Oded Kattash, to score that much in his first 10 EuroBasket games.

Stats Don’t Lie

Slovenia shot 20-of-23 from the free-throw line, while Israel converted just 12-of-19 (63 percent). Slovenia also dominated in assists, 27-21, and fast-break points, 22-19, capitalizing on their superior transition play.

Bottom Line

After opening Group D with two losses to Poland and France, Slovenia rebounded with three straight wins to secure third place. Israel fell to fourth, finishing 3-2 in the group.

Both teams now await the outcome of Spain vs. Greece in Limassol to determine their Round of 16 opponents.

“We’ve recovered well after the early losses,” Slovenia coach Aleksander Sekulic said. “The team showed resilience, and Luka led by example. This is a proud moment for Slovenian basketball.”