Latvia U20 women's basketball team loses to Spain in friendly

Game Recap

On June 28, Latvia's U20 women's basketball team faced Spain in a friendly at the Team Sports Hall, suffering a 57-80 defeat. Spain is a ten-time European champion.

In the first quarter, the Latvians played hesitantly, rarely attacking the basket, allowing Spain to build an early lead through fast breaks (2:9). After a timeout by coach Kaspars Mājenieks, the team recovered. Marta Ploriņa finished three attacks successfully, while Evelīna Otto and Anna Liepiņa each added a basket, making it 13:16.

In the second half, Latvia's offense stabilized, but defense struggled to contain Spain's fast transitions. Marta Alsina and Gina Garcia combined for 22 points on fast breaks.

Top Scorers

For Latvia, Marta Ploriņa scored 14 points (4/4 two-pointers), Anna Liepiņa and Mila Luzgina added 12 each, while Kitija Muzikante and Evelīna Otto had six points apiece. For Spain, Marta Alsina led with 17 points, followed by Noya with 14.

Team News

Coach Mājenieks used a 12-player roster, thanking two players born in 2007 – Rūta Ricika and Tamirise Simonova. On the hottest day of June (31°C in the shade), ten players took the court, including Krista Lukašēviča returning after missing several games. Madara Šmite and Estere Petrus supported from the bench.

Spain's team, coached by Ruben Burgos, arrived in Riga a week before the European Championship in Klaipėda. Their squad includes three 2025 European champions: point guard Gina Garcia (MVP of the tournament), Inesa Miguez, and Marta Alberich.

Next Match

The teams will meet again on Monday, June 29, at 6:00 PM. Afterwards, the Latvian U20 team will head to the European Championship, where they face Sweden, Germany, and Hungary in Group B.