4 NBA players who stood out on day 1 of EuroBasket, including Miami Heat star

Neemias Queta dominates paint to end Portugal’s 18-year EuroBasket drought

Boston Celtics fans received encouraging news about their starting center’s potential.

Neemias Queta delivered a masterclass performance in Portugal’s 62-50 victory over the Czech Republic, showcasing the skills that could make him Boston’s primary center next season.

Queta dominated both ends with 23 points and 18 rebounds while posting a remarkable plus-minus rating of 21.

His efficiency index of 39 reflected complete control of the game’s interior battle. The performance holds special significance as Portugal secured their first EuroBasket victory since 2007.

Franz Wagner celebrates birthday with efficient scoring display for Germany

Orlando Magic star Franz Wagner continued his development despite ongoing three-point shooting concerns, failed to score any from his two attempts.

The forward led Germany in their 106-76 demolition of Montenegro with 22 points on efficient 61.5% two-point shooting.

Wagner’s performance included just two turnovers and two steals, demonstrating improved decision-making and defensive awareness.

The birthday celebration performance suggests Wagner is ready to take on greater responsibility for Germany, especially if he fixes his three-point shooting.

Nikola Jovic outshines Jokic in Serbia’s dominant victory over Slovenia

While Nikola Jokic struggled offensively, Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic seized the spotlight with 18 points in Serbia’s 98-64 rout of Slovenia.

Jovic shot an outstanding 75% from the field and three-point range while leading the team’s efficiency index with 26.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra has praised Jovic’s maturity with the Serbian national team, and this performance validates those observations.

Miami fans indeed hope his international confidence translates to expanded NBA production next season.

Lauri Markkanen proves EuroBasket mastery continues with clutch Finland performance

Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen reminded everyone why he’s considered a EuroBasket specialist.

The Finnish forward delivered when his country needed him most, scoring 28 points with six rebounds and 50% three-point shooting in Finland’s narrow 93-90 victory over Sweden.

Markkanen’s clutch performance in a tightly contested game showcased the tournament experience that makes him invaluable to Finland’s medal hopes.

Jazz fans may hope Markkanen’s EuroBasket excellence finally translates to consistent NBA performances.