'Krastu mačs' basketball marathon returns for 17th year with sports stars and celebrities
An overnight basketball tournament called "Krastu mačs" will take place on August 15-16 at Riga's Esplanāde, featuring athletes, influencers, actors and musicians. The event continues its charity tradition, supporting Ukraine and Latvia's Olympians' social fund.
This weekend, on August 15 and 16, Riga's Esplanāde park near the Rainis monument will host the 17th edition of "Krastu mačs," a 24-hour basketball tournament. Visitors can expect not only basketball games but also a wide entertainment program featuring well-known personalities from various fields.
Tournament schedule
Saturday opens with a three-point shooting contest featuring basketball players Kristaps and Valdis Valters Jr., Iļja Kurucs, and other athletes, alongside influencers and incoming "VEF Rīga" players. At 15:00, defending champions "VEF Rīga" will play their season opener against "Ghetto Family." Later, influencer teams will compete under the "Instagram" and "TikTok" banners.
Saturday evening and night bring performances from well-known actresses, while midnight traditionally features a match between teams of actors and musicians, drawing several recognizable Latvian names.
Charity and remembrance
The tournament continues its charity tradition — two euros will be donated to support Ukraine for every point scored. This year, one game will be dedicated to the memory of basketball legend Uļjana Semjonova, with 30 euros donated per point scored in that game, in partnership with Rietumu Banka, to the Latvian Olympians' social fund, which Semjonova helped establish.
Additional activities
Musical performances will run throughout both days, featuring several well-known Latvian musicians and DJs, including a concert by MARKO on Saturday at 22:00. Visitors will also be able to take part in various activities and a shooting challenge offering a cash prize.
After 16 previous editions, the Right Bank of Riga team still leads the overall standings 10:6, and this year's competition for the title of Riga's best bank continues.
