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The grand finale of the 2025 IWBF U23 Men’s Wheelchair Basketball World Championship in São Paulo delivered everything fans could have hoped for, drama, intensity, and a worthy finish worthy.
Germany entered the final as the only unbeaten team in the competition, having swept aside all challengers with dominant displays. Standing in their way: a fearless Türkiye side riding high after their sensational semi-final upset over Great Britain. Embracing their role as underdogs, Türkiye made it clear from the opening tip-off that they were here to fight.
The game began at a ferocious pace, with both teams trading blows in an end-to-end contest. But it was Türkiye who seized the initiative, responding to every German attack with clinical execution. Onur Ayhan Eroğlu delivered the game of his life, orchestrating Türkiye’s offense and inspiring his side to a 44–31 halftime lead, the first time Germany had truly been tested in the tournament.
With their backs against the wall, Germany showed remarkable poise. Despite trailing by as much as 13 points deep into the third period, they never wavered. Coach Peter Richarz kept faith in his starting five throughout the entire contest, and that faith paid off.
As the game entered its final stages, Germany’s resilience shone through. The Lammering brothers took centre stage: Julian Lammering delivered a masterclass, with a game-high 36 points, while Max Lammering added 22 points as the Germans clawed their way back and snatched the lead in the dying minutes, seeing the game out 71-66.
Türkiye, led by Eroğlu, who finished with 26 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds in a magnificent double-double, fought valiantly until the final whistle. But it was Germany who completed a breathtaking comeback to lift the championship trophy, sealing a victory that crowned their perfect tournament run.
A fitting end to the tournament, a final that showcased the very best of U23 wheelchair basketball.
Credit to both sides: Türkiye leave São Paulo with their heads held high, and Germany etch their name into history as the 2025 IWBF U23 World Champions.
Photo Credits: X-1/IWBF
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