Latvian coach Nerips keeping an open mind
RIGA (FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship) – Latvia play-caller Aigars Nerips is ensuring his options remain open as he plans the process of making an impact at FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship
RIGA (FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship) – Latvia play-caller Aigars Nerips is ensuring his options remain open as he plans the process of making an impact at the FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship.
That is because his 18-player squad contains senior national team candidates who have every chance of booking a FIBA EuroBasket Women Final Round debut between now and the U20 tournament in Matosinhos.
Latvia 18-player squad for FIBA U20 Women's European Championship 2017
Amanda Betlere | Anna Dreimane | Maija Gertsone | Laura Grabe |
Elina Grinberga | Ivanda Hudjakova | Sindija Kudule | Anda Kuzmina |
Agnete Meiksane | Laura Meldere | Ance Mickane | Jete Nulle |
Anete Ozola | Zane Ozoliņa | Dinija Pavelsone | Digna Strautmane |
Paula Strautmane | Linda Svenne |
"The candidate list includes 18 players and the choice is wide," said Nerips.
"Several girls have health problems and three players including sisters Anna and Digna Strautmane, as well as Anna Dreimane, are also included in the list of candidates for the senior national side.
"Therefore, we have also invited cadet players with the U16 Championship only being in August. Both of their positions could be useful."
Latvia finished in seventh place at the event last year in Matosinhos, with a chunk of the squad also made up from the side who reached the Semi-Finals of the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship 2016 in Sopron.
This means Latvia could be considered as one of the front-runners - at least if they get to utilize the Strautmane siblings. Latvia will play in Group B against Italy, Lithuania and Portugal.
FIBA