Lomažs, Žagars and Ķilps Secure Latvia's Win in the Netherlands
Latvia's men's basketball team defeated the Netherlands 72:69 away in Almere, securing their second victory under coach Jānis Gailītis.
Decisive Finish in the Final Quarter
On Friday, July 3, Latvia's men's national basketball team won against the Netherlands in Almere with a score of 72:69. After a slow start, trailing 18:26 at the end of the first quarter, the Latvians turned the game around in the second period and led 41:33 at halftime.
Dramatic Ending and Captain's Role
The Netherlands bounced back in the third quarter, led by van der Vurst, and held a 52:54 lead after 30 minutes. Early in the fourth quarter, the deficit grew to eight points (52:60), but Rihards Lomažs stepped up as the leader. His aggressive drives and drawn fouls, along with teammates' free throws, helped tie the game at 61-61 after a three-pointer by Artūrs Žagars. Shortly before the end, Žagars drew a foul on a drive, putting Latvia ahead 70:69. With less than 13 seconds left, Kristaps Ķilps secured a rebound and forced a turnover, sealing the 72:69 victory.
