Malta Crowned 2026 FIBA European Championship for Small Countries Champions

28/06/202622:12

At the Tercentenary Sports Hall, the island nation avenged last year’s defeat by overcoming Andorra 90-76 to capture its second continental title. Jordan Tucker was named Tournament MVP, while Gibraltar celebrated a historic bronze medal

Malta returned to the top of the podium, capturing the title for just the second time in the nation’s history after its 2018 triumph, having fallen in the previous two championship games in 2022 and 2024. In a rematch of the last edition’s final, head coach Ferrante’s side controlled the contest throughout, weathering Andorra’s surge spanning the end of the second quarter and the beginning of the third before showcasing its depth and composure with a decisive run in the final period to secure a convincing 90-76 victory. Jordan Tucker earned both Tournament MVP and top scorer honors with 25 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists despite shooting 6-for-20 from the field. Sjoberg added an outstanding 23 points and 8 rebounds, Falzon contributed a crucial 18 points, while the ever-reliable Deguara finished with 10 points and 8 rebounds.

For Andorra, it was a fourth silver medal. Twelve three-pointers on 26 attempts and strong performances from Sergi Serrato Balletbo (22 points), Armengol (18 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists) and Lopez (19 points, 9 rebounds) were not enough to match the newly crowned champions.

In the third-place game, the hosts made history as Gibraltar claimed the bronze medal, securing the nation’s first-ever podium finish on its 20th attempt. Ever-present since the competition’s inception, Gibraltar had failed to reach the podium in each of the previous 19 editions.

Built on disciplined defense and outstanding teamwork, Gibraltar defeated San Marino 72-67. Yome was named MVP of the game after posting 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists, while Jamie McGrail and El Yettefti each scored 12 points. Garcia added 15 points and 9 rebounds. For San Marino, Tura and Macina each finished with 9 points, while Pietro Ugolini led all scorers with 25 points, though his effort was not enough to return San Marino to the bronze-medal position after its third-place finish in 2024.

Final Standings