Gailītis: Pressure is a privilege; national team begins World Cup qualifying preparations
The Latvian men's basketball national team held its first training session on Sunday, June 21, ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Jānis Gailītis emphasized team unity and that pressure is a privilege.
The Latvian men's basketball national team held its first training session at the Riga Arena on Sunday, June 21, as preparations for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers began. The team gathered on the summer solstice, and head coach Jānis Gailītis expressed satisfaction with the players' focus and attitude after the session.
Gailītis noted that the initial message to the team highlighted three things: energy, aggressiveness, and team play. "We expect contribution from young players, not experience. From experienced ones, we expect culture and contribution," the coach said.
Regarding NCAA players, Gailītis acknowledged that NIL deals affect the national team roster, and many talents will not be seen regularly. However, he views this as an opportunity for everyone involved.
The coach also commented on basketball prospect Benjamins Janis Berue, who will play for the U16 team this summer rather than the senior team to avoid overload.
Gailītis confirmed he feels fine combining club and national team duties and promises to give energy to the players. In the coaching staff, Artūrs Visockis-Rubenis is responsible for defense, Mārtiņš Gulbis for offense. Volunteer coach Kaspars Vecvagars is on the list, and Žeņa Kosuškins regularly attends training to gather ideas.
Gailītis emphasized that the team communicates in Latvian, and all players understand it. There have been no problems with squad selection – no one has refused to play, though some may miss out due to health issues.
Friendly games are scheduled for June 26 in Tallinn against Estonia and June 28 in Riga against Georgia. Qualifying games are on July 3 against the Netherlands and July 6 against Austria. Gailītis stressed that pressure is a privilege and the team is eagerly awaiting the games.
The coach praised Mārtiņš Laksa's physical condition and Artūrs Žagars' motivation after an injury-free season. He also noted that many young players have not yet worked with him, but overall team spirit is good.
