Latvia go into today’s game against Spain sky-high after upsetting Croatia in their Group B opener on Monday.
Topping the world champions will be a huge ask, but Andris Biedrins & Co could hardly feel any more upbeat.
They know they can make things uncomfortable for the hosts – a team that needed overtime to beat them in group play in this event two years ago in Serbia & Montenegro.
That Spain team were without Pau Gasol - who was recovering from a foot injury - but then again, Latvia didn't have Biedrins, the Golden State Warriors’ biggest surprise this past year.
The team from the Baltics can play loose with one win already in the bag, while Spain will feel confident as well after a heavy defeat of Portugal.
Last time out: Latvia beat Croatia 85-77, while Spain destroyed Portugal 82-56.
Key Match-up: Biedrins v Gasol. Both players were very active in the first quarter of Monday’s wins and will need to be today as well to set the tone for their teams. Gasol is a seasoned campaigner while Biedrins is in his first summer with the Latvian national side. He will only get better as the tournament goes on.
Garbajosa inspired his team-mates
in Spain's win yesterday
Statistics: Latvia have a reputation for being a great three-point shooting team but Monday was ridiculous as they made 11 of 18 attempts. This is why Biedrins and the Latvian big men are so crucial. If they can provide some points in the paint, the team will have the balance they need on offense to be difficult opponents for any side.
X-Factor: Gasol, with 19 points, was one of only three Spanish player to hit double figures against minnows Portugal. Everyone, except Juan Carlos Navarro (he’s injured) scored, though. Why is this important? Spain have stars, but their biggest strength is team play. They share the ball on offense and help on defense. For Latvia, captain Aigars Vitols was worth his weight in gold against Croatia, stepping up to hit big shots and coming up with a crucial steal. He could do something special against Spain as well.
Speaking out: “He’s been through a lot, and it was his first game back, so we’re very happy for him” – Gasol on Jorge Garbajosa, who gained his medical clearance to play on Sunday and had eight points in 16 minutes.
