Latvia U17 girls face Czech Republic for ninth place at World Cup

Latvia's U17 women's basketball team is set to compete in the quarterfinal for ninth place at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup against tournament hosts Czech Republic on Friday, July 17. The game tips off at 6:00 PM at the Starez Arena Vodova 2. The winner will advance to face the winner of the Italy vs. Mexico match on Saturday.

Latvia lost to China 60:83 in the round of 16 on Wednesday, which was the third smallest margin of defeat in that round. Czech Republic has lost all four games so far – in the group stage against Japan, Slovenia, and Colombia, and in the round of 16 against Canada (40:67).

Statistics and players

Latvia averages 61.8 points per game, ranking ninth in the tournament, while Czech Republic averages only 47.5 points (14th). The Czechs excel in rebounding (50.5, 5th place), but their two-point shooting accuracy is among the weakest at 27.6% (15th). Latvia shoots 35.9% from two-point range (9th).

Latvia's leading scorer Šarlote Skrebele averages 17.3 points, second best in the tournament. Patrīcija Tikmere is in the top 20 in rebounds (6.3), and Monta Čulkstēna shares 13th place in steals (2.3 in 14.7 minutes).

Team and journey

The Latvian U17 team is coached by Ilze Ose-Hlebovicka, assisted by Mārcis Pliens and Irina Romaņenko. This summer, the team played seven games against top-eight teams, gaining valuable experience. Although reaching the top eight was not possible this year, the team aims for a top-ten finish.

Other results

The quarterfinalists include both European U16 finalists Spain and Slovenia, as well as Asian Cup representatives Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, plus the Americas finalists USA and Canada. Competing in the World Cup itself is a notable achievement for Latvia.