The Slovakia Republic national basketball team began its FIBA EuroBasket 2027 Qualifiers campaign with a 73-63 victory over Albania on November 28, 2025. In a hard-fought qualifier played in Bratislava, Slovakia used a strong defensive effort in the final quarter to pull away from a determined Albanian side and secure a crucial home win. The match was closely contested for three quarters, with Albania's guards causing problems for the Slovak defense. The turning point came early in the fourth, when Slovakia switched to a zone defense that stifled Albania's penetration, sparking a 12-0 run that decided the game. Slovakia's NBA-based center was a dominant force inside, controlling the paint on both ends of the floor. This win was vital for Slovakia's hopes of qualifying for a major tournament, providing a solid foundation in a competitive group. The Albanian team, though defeated, showed promise and kept the game competitive for long stretches. The Slovakia coach praised his team's defensive adjustment, while the Albanian coach highlighted his players' fighting spirit. The starting lineups featured the core players from each nation's domestic leagues, with Slovakia's experience proving decisive in the end.