Unstoppable Unicorn: Porzingis powers Latvia past Turkey in big win

RIGA (Latvia) - Kristaps Porzingis marked his return to competitive action with Latvia with a dominant all-round performance in their 111-85 victory over Turkey in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 European Qualifiers.

Latvia turned on the style on home soil to open up their Second Round action as they consolidate their position at the top of Group I.

Turning point: Latvia came out firing and set the tone with a 31-point opening quarter to establish a double-digit cushion. Turkey found some respite in the second and were back within single figures at 50-42, only for the barrage from outside to continue as the hosts poured in another 31 points in the third quarter to move well out of sight.

Game hero: Porzingis wasted little time in reintroducing himself on the international stage. 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 blocks all inside the first quarter. The 'Unicorn' would complete a double-double inside 15 minutes and finished with 22 points to go alongside 14 boards and 6 rejections. Davis Bertans added 17 points with five triples.

Stats don't lie: Latvia were 10 of 19 shooting from three-point range in the first half and 57 percent from the field overall. Numbers that may have been expected to dip in the second half, but Latvia were relentless and ended up doubling their tally from outside with 60 percent shooting on the night.

Bottom line: A win for Turkey would have brought both teams level in the Group I standings. As it is, Latvia pull away with an emphatic victory and can take another step towards the World Cup on Sunday when they visit Great Britain. Meanwhile, Turkey welcome Serbia in a blockbuster encounter that has grown in importance.

They said:

"Before this game, I thought we had some problems on defense. It was an incredible game. I don’t think any team will come here in this atmosphere and win. They scored everywhere. 20 three-point shots. For us, it was impossible to win." - Turkey coach, Ergin Ataman

"It was a great game for Latvia and a bad game for us. Our defense was our biggest issue. It’s something we have to fix and take pride in. We just have to be better." - Cedi Osman, Turkey

"All I can say is wow. I don’t know any other words to define such a performance. Preparing for this window in such an emergency situation. From my side, it’s an honor to be here. My job seems to be simple. I really hope the fans enjoyed the game tonight." - Latvia coach, Luca Banchi

"I wanted to say thank you to our sixth player. The atmosphere was amazing. We really enjoyed every minute of the game. This was just a small step forward and we can’t get too excited." - , Janis Strelnieks, Latvia

FIBA