EuroBasket 2025 tipped off with fireworks, and Serbia wasted no time reminding everyone why they’re considered one of the top contenders for gold. Facing Estonia in their Group Stage opener, the Serbians dismantled their opponents 98–64, a statement victory built on depth, precision, and star power. But guess what, Nikola Jokic didn’t steal the entire spotlight; there was someone with him.

It was a complete performance from start to finish. Serbia jumped out to a 32-12 lead after the first quarter, effectively killing the suspense early. By halftime, the gap had widened further, and the final scoreline reflected not only Serbia’s dominance but also their intent for the rest of the tournament.

In fact, the 34-point margin tied for the ninth-largest EuroBasket victory in the 21st century and marked Serbia’s biggest EuroBasket win in history. Along the way, they also tied their own single-game record for assists with 32, matching a mark they first set against Iceland in 2015.

As if Serbia’s display wasn’t impressive enough, there was a moment courtside that drew just as much attention. Three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic received a special greeting after the final buzzer. Denver Nuggets owner Josh Kroenke was in attendance and made his way to congratulate his superstar.

It was a sight that captured the essence of international basketball: Jokic, the undisputed hub of the Serbian national team, sharing a proud postgame moment with the man who oversees his NBA franchise. Kroenke’s presence sent a clear message, not just about Jokic’s impact on Serbia’s chances, but also about how highly valued he is in Denver, even in the offseason spotlight of EuroBasket.

The Nuggets’ big man more than justified the trip. In just 23 minutes on the floor, Nikola Jokic nearly delivered a triple-double, finishing with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists while posting an incredible +39 plus/minus. He didn’t even need to dominate the scoring column; instead, he controlled the pace, set up teammates, and anchored the defense, exactly what Serbia needed in a one-sided opener.

While all eyes naturally fall on Jokic whenever Serbia plays, it was his 22-year-old teammate who truly stole the headlines. Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic erupted for a game-high 18 points on 6-of-8 shooting, including a sizzling 3-of-4 from deep. He added 4 rebounds and 6 assists, posting a team-high PIR of 26.

Jovic did most of his damage early, scoring 12 first-quarter points, matching Estonia’s entire output in that period. His energy and versatility were a perfect complement to Jokic’s orchestration, showing why Serbia’s roster is considered one of the deepest in the tournament.

This isn’t the first time Jovic has drawn comparisons, or even confusion, with his more famous countryman. Heat fans have already seen flashes of his scoring ability in the NBA, but on the international stage, he looked like a rising star ready to make a name for himself alongside Nikola Jokic and Bogdan Bogdanovic.

Beyond Jokic and Jovic, Serbia showcased just how balanced they can be. Aleksa Avramovic scored 13 points while chipping in 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Filip Petrusev was efficient with 12 points on 5-of-6 shooting. Bogdan Bogdanovic added 11 points to go along with 7 assists, proving once again why he remains one of the team’s most consistent contributors.

The best part? Every single Serbian player got on the scoresheet. That kind of balance makes them an absolute nightmare for opposing defenses. Coach Svetislav Pesic’s squad didn’t just rely on star power; they executed their game plan, moved the ball beautifully, and kept fresh legs on the court.

As Petrusev explained afterward: “We took the match seriously. We respected our principles on the court. We shut down their strongest weapon, which is the three-point shot. We deservedly celebrated at the end.”

Estonia Left Searching for Answers

For Estonia, it was a night where little came easy. Former NBA forward Henri Drell led the team with 11 points on 5-of-11 shooting, while Artur Konontsuk chipped in 10. Kaspar Treier and Kristian Kullamae added 8 apiece, but Estonia simply couldn’t cope with Serbia’s size, depth, and ball movement.

They were limited to just 64 points, including a meager 12 in the first quarter and 15 in the third. By then, the contest was long decided.

Serbia enters its second Group A clash at EuroBasket 2025 as a clear favorite against Portugal, a nation making just its second appearance in the tournament in 14 years. The game, hosted in Riga, Latvia, sets up as a classic mismatch: Serbia boasts a deep, star-driven roster under the guidance of veteran coach Svetislav Pesic, while Portugal leans heavily on Neemias Queta and a supporting cast still gaining experience at this level.

Pesic’s system has Serbia playing to its strengths—fluid ball movement, suffocating defense, and a pronounced size advantage in the paint. That formula has already been tested and proven in their buildup, as Serbia rolled through preparation with a 7–0 record.

For Portugal, the task is daunting. Without the depth or perimeter firepower to consistently trade blows, they’ll need Queta to anchor the interior on both ends and hope role players can hit timely shots. Serbia, however, has already demonstrated its ability to neutralize such approaches, holding Estonia’s shooters in check in their opener—a defensive blueprint they’re likely to apply again here.

For Nuggets fans, seeing Nikola Jokic greeted warmly by owner Josh Kroenke after the game was a proud moment, a bridge between NBA dominance and international brilliance. For Serbian fans, it was reassurance that their MVP is locked in and surrounded by teammates ready to shine.

The real question is: if Nikola Jovic continues to perform at this level alongside Jokic and Bogdanovic, is there anyone in EuroBasket 2025 who can realistically stop Serbia from marching all the way to gold? Share your thoughts below.