Zibarts Picks Up Latvia Coaching Duties

MUNICH (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017 Qualifiers) - Martin Zibarts has moved into the head coaching seat for Latvia's EuroBasket Women 2017 qualification campaign.

Previously fulfilling a role as assistant to his predecessor Ainars Zvirgzdins at EuroBasket Women 2015, he has also worked with an array of Latvia national youth teams - including podium success at U20 level.

Through this work, he has coached current national team players such as Anete Steinberga, Kristine Vitola, Ieva Krastina, Liene Priede and Sabine Niedola.

Zibarts is also known for his work as an assistant alongside his compatriot Gundars Vetra at EuroLeague Women and Russian League powerhouse, Dynamo Kursk.

Latvia will play neighbours Lithuania, along with Slovenia and Ukraine during qualifying in Group A.

"Before the game with Lithuania, we will have only four or five days training, so will not have time for experimentation," said Zibarts.

"The focus will be on almost all the players who participated at EuroBasket Women 2015.

"Playing in the club mid-season has its own specifics, with players able to come home and get new emotions.

"Therefore I hope Gunta Basko-Melnbarde and Anete Jekabsone will help us, because they along with Zane Tamane, have very useful experience," added the play-caller.

FIBA