21.07.2025
EuroBasket returns to Tampere after almost six decades at the turn of August and September
In late summer 2025, between August 27 and September 3, Tampere will host the FIBA EuroBasket group stage for the first time in 58 years. Finland’s national basketball team, the Susijengi, has selected Tampere as the host city for its home group, with games to be played at the Nokia Arena, located right in the heart of the city.
“Over the years, Tampere has proven itself as Finland’s leading city for world-class entertainment events. Its excellent transport connections across the country will help us turn this tournament into a true celebration of basketball for all of Finland. Nokia Arena, with its modern facilities and services, is a true source of pride in Finland and can easily rival any international basketball venue,” says Ari Tammivaara, Secretary General of Finland’s EuroBasket 2025 organising committee.
“It’s been over half a century since Tampere last hosted the tournament, so expectations are naturally high. Last autumn, the atmosphere at the World Cup qualifier game showed what kind of energy Nokia Arena can deliver, and we look forward to sharing that experience with both locals and thousands of visitors”, says Perttu Pesä, Director of Events for the City of Tampere.
“Nokia Arena, with its modern facilities and services, is a true source of pride in Finland and can easily rival any international basketball venue,” Tammivaara adds.
Susijengi to play three home games ahead of EuroBasket Group Stage
Before tipping off their EuroBasket group stage in Tampere. Susijengi will play three home games in front of their Finnish fans. The team kicks off its summer schedule on Friday, August 8, in Jyväskylä, which is the hometown of NBA star Lauri Markkanen, facing Belgium. They will then take on Belgium again at Espoo Metro Arena on August 11, followed by a matchup against Poland on August 21 at the same venue.
“We want to get the team into peak shape in front of our home fans. These games are important for us both on the court and emotionally,” says Susijengi head coach Lassi Tuovi.
Picture: Susijengi