Gailītis: Players' Involvement in National Team Work Brings Optimism
Latvian men's basketball head coach Gailītis says players' willingness to join the national team despite the difficult qualifying situation gives him positive feelings.
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The Latvian men's basketball national team has won only one of its first four games in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers. As a result, Sito Alonso was dismissed in March and replaced by Artūrs Gailītis. To secure a spot in the second round and continue the fight for a World Cup berth, the team needs as many wins as possible in the remaining matches.
Gailītis acknowledged the tough situation in the standings but expressed optimism due to the players' desire to contribute. "Players want to be part of the national team work, which shows their belief in the program overall. Given the difficult situation, they feel responsible to help. Their presence demonstrates whether they believe success is possible. Their involvement gives me positive feelings," Gailītis said.
The first stage of the qualifiers will conclude in early July with matches against the Netherlands and Austria. The team must perform well in these games to keep hopes of advancing to the next round alive.
