Visockis-Rubenis: After losses, hunger returns; a new beginning with Gailītis
Latvian basketball national team coach Artūrs Visockis-Rubenis says that losses in friendly matches have sparked hunger, and emphasizes the need to improve defensive consistency and team chemistry before World Cup qualifiers against the Netherlands.
Latvia's basketball national team head coach Artūrs Visockis-Rubenis, ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against the Netherlands, revealed that after losses in friendly matches, the team's hunger has returned. "When you lose friendlies, this hunger grows because complacency doesn't set in. We understand there is still a lot of work to do," the coach said.
Visockis-Rubenis noted that the team's performance has significant fluctuations – good stretches alternate with drops, so the contrast needs to be reduced. Restoring team chemistry is also crucial. In both friendlies, Latvia conceded nearly 90 points on defense, which the coach attributes to a lack of consistency. "It requires focus and determination, not talent," the specialist added.
Speaking about the opponent Netherlands, the coach highlighted their style: active defense across the court, aggressive pick-and-roll plays, and fast breaks – 20% of their offense comes from transition. The main playmakers are Boyd van der Vuurst de Vries and Maarten Verver. To overcome such aggressive defense, Latvia must be confident and attack the opponent's big men to get into the paint, creating good shots.
Although Latvia can no longer achieve a better record than 3-3 in the first qualifying round, the coach denied any panic. "There is a new beginning in the national team because Jānis [Gailītis] has come with his vision," Visockis-Rubenis said, adding that Gailītis' tactical nuances in offense include continuous movement and not holding the ball.
Latvia will face the Netherlands on July 3 at 20:30 Latvian time.
