On September 7, in the knockout round of the European Championship in Riga, Latvia, Turkey narrowly defeated Sweden 85-79, making it to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2009 and achieving its longest winning streak since 1957.

Sweden opened the game with a bang, hitting nine of their first ten shots and maintaining a 44-37 halftime lead. Entering the third quarter, Turkish coach Ataman quickly adjusted his lineup, launching a 14-0 run to take the lead and ultimately build an 11- point lead late in the third quarter . Sweden refused to give up, with Hakasson and Birgund combining to tie the score twice, sending the game into the final three minutes.

In a crucial moment, Alperen Shinkyung displayed superstar form, scoring six straight points and adding a block and dunk to help Turkey secure victory in the final minute. He finished with 24 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists, becoming the first Turkish player to record three double-doubles in a single tournament since Omer Asik in 2011. Cedi Osman 's hot start and Ercan Osmani 's two-way play also bolstered the team.

Turkey dominated their opponents on the boards, grabbing 18 offensive rebounds and leading in second-chance points 16-6 . Sweden, despite the defeat , had a glorious performance, with five players scoring in double figures, led by Birgund with a well-rounded performance of 14 points , 13 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals.