Estonian U18 basketball team returns to European Championship after 18-year hiatus
After an 18-year break, the Estonian U18 basketball team will again compete in the European Championship finals, held in Italy from July 25 to August 2. Their group opponents include hosts Italy, neighboring Latvia, and defending champions Spain.
The Estonian U18 basketball team has returned to the elite of European basketball after an 18-year absence. They will start the European Championship on Saturday, July 25, in Trentino, Italy. In the top division A, tough challenges await: the group rivals are tournament hosts Italy, neighbors Latvia, and reigning European champions Spain.
Head coach Martin Rausberg noted that the team has had an intense preparation period starting on June 18. "We had a very eventful summer. We participated in several friendly tournaments and are now on the finishing straight. Making it to Division A is a great achievement for these guys. Last year they performed excellently and earned promotion. Now they have the chance to test themselves against the best teams in Europe and gain this experience," Rausberg said.
Player Robert Kangur expressed confidence. "We are ready. The preparation was long and intensive. We trained a lot, played good friendly matches, and improved as a team. Our main asset is team spirit. We may not be the tallest or physically strongest team in the tournament, but we are ready to fight for each other. We will try to give our best because we want to return home with as many victories as possible," Kangur stated.
The tournament in Trentino will also allocate five spots for the youth world championship.
