The Latvian women's basketball team is set to prepare for crucial qualification matches against Slovenia, Netherlands, and Estonia, with the first match scheduled for March 11 in Riga.
The Latvian women's national basketball team will begin preparations for their important qualification matches starting March 11 in Riga, where they will face Slovenia. This match is pivotal, considering Latvia lost to Slovenia in their previous encounter in November in Ljubljana. Following the match against Slovenia, the team will compete in two away games: one against the Netherlands in Almer in March 14 and another against Estonia in Tallinn on March 17.
Head coach Matīss Rožlapa stated that training will commence on Saturday, March 7, but not with the full team, as several players have prior commitments in club competitions. Notably, Aleksa Gulbe is scheduled to play in the French championship, while Kate Vilka and Anna Liepiņa are participating in the Lithuanian Cup. Anete Šteinberga, who has just signed a contract in Mexico, will also be unavailable. The return of center player Marta Miščenko after a two-year hiatus is a significant boost, along with the inclusion of guards Enija Ķīvīte and Madara Šmite, who were part of the team's activities last summer.
Despite the ongoing club season reaching its peak, Rožlapa emphasized that the players are in good physical shape and ready to give their best for the national team. The coach's strategic insights and the players' commitment will be vital for the team's performance in these qualifiers, as securing spots in upcoming international competitions remains a priority for the Latvian women's basketball program.
