In a preparatory match leading up to the FIBA World Cup, scheduled from August 25 to September 10, Latvia secured a victory against Puerto Rico with a final score of 84:72.
The game proceeded at a moderate pace as both teams’ coaches efficiently managed playing time rotations.
The first quarter saw a close back-and-forth struggle with neither team managing a significant lead. The scoring wasn’t particularly high, resulting in a close 14-13 score in favor of Latvia at the end of the opening quarter.
Rolands Šmits guva 14 punktus, bet Artūrs Žagars un Dāvis Bertāns – pa 12 punktiem https://t.co/Rdne74Mf74
— TVNET ziņas (@TVNET_zinas) August 20, 2023
The second quarter didn’t bring drastic changes, as both teams found their offensive rhythm. However, Davis Bertans and his teammates from Latvia seemed slightly more content. They entered halftime with a two-point lead, which provided a more comfortable position for the upcoming quarters.
In the subsequent half, the Latvians elevated their gameplay, enhancing both their offensive and defensive strategies. They managed to secure a seven-point lead going into the final 10 minutes.
Ultimately, this effort led Latvia to their fifth victory in as many friendly matches played so far.
On the other side, Puerto Rico suffered their third loss against a single victory.
Roland Smits and Arturs Zagars were the standout performers for Latvia, both contributing 14 points. Ismael Romero led the scoring for Puerto Rico with the same total of 14 points.
During the World Cup, Latvia finds itself in the challenging Group H, competing alongside France, Canada, and Lebanon. Puerto Rico is positioned in a group with Serbia, South Sudan, and China.
The next phase of the tournament will see the top two teams from each group advancing, followed by the formation of new groups for further competition.