In 2023, Latvia will make its FIBA World Cup debut. After failing to qualify for last year’s FIBA EuroBasket tournament for the first time since 1999, Latvia bounced back in a big way this year. New coach Luca Banchi and his squad are looking to advance through group play. Latvia’s first matchup will be against Lebanon at 5:15 a.m. ET on Aug. 25.
Active NBA Players
- Davis Bertans (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Coach: Luca Banchi
What to Watch
Latvia’s hopes took a serious hit when Kristaps Porzingis announced he would miss the FIBA World Cup because of plantar fasciitis. Banchi led Latvia to a 11-1 record in the FIBA pre-qualifiers and qualifiers. Already on a roll, Latvia will bring confidence in its inaugural appearance in the FIBA World Cup and will look to Bertans to carry the load scoring-wise as well.
Group Play Schedule
- Aug. 25: Latvia vs. Lebanon (5:15 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 27: Latvia vs. France (9:30 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 29: Latvia vs. Canada (9:30 a.m. ET)
