Lauri Markkanen scored 23 points as Finland picked up a fourth win in five matches in Group G of the European section of qualifying for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, defeating Hungary 85-77 in Helsinki.<\/p>\n
Utah Jazz centre Markkanen<\/a> top scored in the match that was still significant for Finland<\/a> despite having already secured progression from Group G, as results with Hungary<\/a> – should they too progress – will carry over into the into the second round of qualifying.<\/p>\n Finland’s victory over France<\/a> in December keeps them top of the group on head-to-head record, but after France beat Belgium<\/a> 80-72 also on Friday, the two will face off for top spot in the group and two more points to take through when they meet in Pau on Monday 6th July.<\/p>\n It looked like Finland were in for a difficult evening at home, finding themselves 18-13 down after the first quarter, but they came roaring back in a 60-point second quarter, taking it 35-25 to open a five-point lead at the half.<\/p>\n The third quarter was even better for the Wolfpack, who extended their advantage to 16 points with 10 minutes to play, making a late Hungarian rally in the final quarter too little, too late, eventually claiming the 85-77<\/a> win relatively comfortably.<\/p>\n That said, it wasn’t the most comfortable night for Markkanen, who felt harshly treated by the officials with a number of calls.<\/p>\n “There was a situation where a guy was hanging by his wrist during a shooting situation. Even though I know that in Europe you can play harder than in North America, that’s a mistake in both continents,” said the centre at the end of the game.<\/p>\n “They (officials) always tell you their own view of the situation. This is an emotional game, and sometimes you have to say things a little louder, but there is nothing personal about it.\u00a0I went to apologise at the end, I don’t have anything to complain about the refereeing line per se. A few times it felt like the throw was broken, but it’s also nice that I get to play hard.”<\/p>\n Lassi Tuovi’s side are attempting to qualify for the World Cup for the third time, and reach back-to-back tournaments for the first time.<\/p>\n