Estonia Stuns Slovenia 94–93 in Overtime

The 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers tipped off with drama, intensity and unexpected results—and Estonia delivered the biggest surprise of the opening window. In a breathtaking overtime battle in Slovenia, the Estonian national team stunned the hosts 94–93, overcoming multiple deficits, surviving late-game pressure, and stealing the victory with a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds. Slovenia appeared to have full control in the closing moments of regulation, but Estonia refused to crack. A late-game heroics sequence by Henri Drell pushed the duel into overtime, and even when Slovenia regained the lead in the extra period, a costly turnover and Estonia’s precise execution turned the entire matchup upside down. Kristian Kullamäe, ice-cold under pressure, delivered the decisive blow: a go-ahead triple with just five seconds left on the clock.

Slovenia on the brink of victory—until Estonia’s resilience took over

Playing at home and backed by their supporters, Slovenia built an advantage multiple times throughout the game. Their offense relied on quick ball movement and the efficient scoring of Gregor Hrovat, who carried the team throughout the night. In the final minute of the fourth quarter, Slovenia held a lead and seemed positioned to close the contest. However, Estonia had other ideas. Henri Drell, who had been sharp all night, attacked the basket fearlessly and forced the game into overtime with a crucial late possession. Momentum shifted, but Slovenia still created another lead in the extra five minutes.

Overtime drama: a turnover, a dagger three, and Estonia’s perfect finish

In overtime, Slovenia looked more composed early on, with Hrovat, Cerkvenik, and Samar providing steady offense. As the final seconds approached, Slovenia once again held a narrow lead and seemed ready to escape with a home win. Everything changed when Gregor Hrovat committed a critical turnover under pressure. Estonia immediately transitioned the mistake into an offensive opportunity. Kristian Kullamäe received the ball, squared up, and launched a confident three-pointer that splashed through the net with just five seconds remaining. Slovenia still had a chance to turn the game around, and Hrovat, seeking redemption, took the final shot at the buzzer. The ball bounced off, sealing Estonia’s statement victory.

Estonia’s leaders: Drell explodes for 29, Kullamäe delivers clutch heroics

Henri Drell delivered one of the best performances of his national team career, finishing with 29 points, attacking downhill, drawing contact, and controlling possessions during critical stretches. Kristian Kullamäe added 24 points, displaying elite shot-making and taking responsibility when it mattered most. Artur Konontsuk contributed 13 points and strong defensive minutes, while Kaspar Treier poured in 11 points, providing both scoring and rebounding presence. Estonia’s balanced offensive execution and mental toughness played a crucial role in grinding down Slovenia’s rhythm, especially in clutch moments.

Slovenia’s effort: strong scoring but decisive mistakes

Despite the loss, Slovenia had multiple bright performers. Gregor Hrovat led the team with 23 points, driving Slovenia’s scoring and functioning as their primary initiator. Miha Cerkvenik and Žiga Samar each added 15 points, offering spacing and off-ball movement. Gregor Glas contributed 12 points, giving Slovenia reliable shooting from the perimeter. Offensively, Slovenia produced strong stretches, but turnovers and late-game decision-making proved costly.

Hungary stuns Finland in another qualifier upset

Estonia wasn’t the only team producing surprises on the second day of the qualifiers. In another unexpected result, Hungary defeated Finland 89–82, handing the 2025 EuroBasket semifinalists a disappointing start. Zoltán Perl led Hungary with an efficient 25 points, while Valencia’s Nate Reuvers added 16 points and six rebounds. Finland struggled to generate late momentum despite strong performances. Sasu Salin posted 16 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while Mikael Jantunen and Edon Maxhuni added 13 points each. The loss signals a challenging start for Finland, who entered the qualifiers as favorites to advance.

What this means for Estonia in the FIBA 2027 World Cup Qualifiers

Estonia’s dramatic win over Slovenia immediately reshapes expectations within their qualifying group. Starting the campaign with a high-profile road victory gives Estonia both confidence and crucial standings leverage. With Drell, Kullamäe, and a rising core showing maturity and composure, Estonia enters the next qualifiers window with legitimate momentum. The team demonstrated toughness, discipline, improved half-court execution, and the ability to punish opponents’ mistakes—traits essential for reaching the next stage of World Cup qualification.