Sweden vs Montenegro Basketball Prediction, Preview, Odds: 1/9/2025 – EuroBasket 2025

Sweden and Montenegro will clash in Group B action at Nokia Arena in Tampere, Finland—one of the most intriguing matchups of the group stage. Sweden, returning to EuroBasket for the first time since 2013, brings fresh energy and a breakout star in Pelle Larsson. Montenegro, meanwhile, leans on veteran strength with NBA stalwart Nikola Vučević, aiming to build on recent progress in European competition.

Team Snapshots

Sweden

Re-entering EuroBasket with fervor, Sweden’s roster is spearheaded by newcomer Pelle Larsson from the Miami Heat. He joins a squad blending seasoned pros like Ludvig Håkanson, Tobias Borg, and Simon Birgander with key contributors like Wilhelm Falk and Mattias Markusson. Though their preparation saw mixed results—only one win in five warm-up games—the team’s collective spirit and Larsson’s offensive upside inject hope for a deeper run.

Montenegro

Montenegro fields a blend of NBA and EuroLeague talent led by Nikola Vučević, a proven interior force. Accompanying him are consistent performers like Marko Simonović and Vladimir Mihailović, whose continuity from qualifying has helped Armenia establish a cohesive identity. Their gameplay often emphasizes physicality, post-up offense, and disciplined defensive rotations.

Tactical Matchup & Key Battlegrounds

Element	Advantage	Insight
Scoring Power	Sweden	Larsson’s shooting versatility gives them a perimeter edge.
Interior Presence	Montenegro	Vučević’s rim protection and rebounding are central to their success.
Pace & Flow	Sweden	They’ll aim to push tempo; Montenegro prefers structured sets.
Depth & Rotation	Sweden (athletic energy)	Montenegro relies on experience; Sweden’s youthful bench may bring spark.

Expect Sweden to run in transition, capitalize on kickouts, and challenge Montenegro’s slower recovery. Montenegro’s response will hinge on using Vučević to anchor the paint and enforce toughness in half-court sequences.

Prediction

Sweden 82 – Montenegro 78

This one promises to be tightly contested. Sweden’s offensive agility and home-court energy should give them a slight edge—Larsson’s ability to stretch the defense and create mismatches may be the difference down the stretch. Montenegro remains dangerous with their interior command, but a few missed rotations or second-chance opportunities could tilt the balance.

X-Factor:
Sweden’s ability to finish defensive possessions with rebounds and transition points will matter. For Montenegro, limiting Larsson’s open looks and maintaining physicality inside is key.