Match Preview
Kristian Kullamae is out for Estonia which is a big blow for the hosts, but Slovenia also can't count on multiple stars and veterans. Which side will emerge victorious in Tallinn?
Estonia Participate in Big Competitions Regularly
After a couple of solid performances at the recently ended EuroBasket 2025, Estonia keep pushing in the FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers, currently sitting 3rd in Group H with a 2-2 record.
One of the most dramatic contests in the last decade was seen in their opening match, beating Slovenia 94-93 as visitors, then losing at home to the Czech Republic 97-92 before returning to winning ways in the third round against Sweden 88-77.
To secure a spot in the next phase, the Estonians just needed to once again beat the Scandinavian side in front of the home crowd but had terrible shooting numbers and lost 79-69, making just 37% of their field-goal attempts.
Slovenia Tagged Underdogs
Even without their NBA star Luka Doncic, Slovenia are doing a good job in these qualifiers, currently topping Group H with three victories and just one defeat, which, as mentioned, came in the opener against Estonia.
The Dragons returned to winning ways instantly by defeating Sweden 94-83, and then crushing the Czech Republic 99-59 at home, where Ziga Samar dominated the floor with 19 points and seven assists.
Slovenia then traveled to Jihlava to face the Czechs once again and extended their winning streak to 86-84 after making a huge comeback in the second half (they were behind by 18 points at the break). Veteran Klemen Prepelic was the key performer this time with 20 points; however, he won’t be available for this match.