Latvia opened their FIBA Basketball World Cup European Qualifiers campaign with a commanding 85-70 victory over Israel on 31 August 2026, using a dominant third-quarter surge to pull clear at the Arena Riga. The home side improve to 1-0 in the group, while Israel will look for a response after being outclassed defensively in the second half.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, Latvia imposed a physically aggressive style that made life difficult for the Israeli backcourt. The first quarter was tightly contested, with Israel staying within touching distance thanks to sharp perimeter shooting. However, Latvia's superior depth and transition offence began to tell as the game progressed, particularly after halftime when the hosts ripped off a 14-2 run to open an insurmountable lead.

Latvia took a 43-38 advantage into the break before blowing the game open with a 27-15 third quarter. Their defensive pressure forced 16 Israeli turnovers, many of which were converted into fast-break points. Israel briefly trimmed the deficit to nine in the final frame, but Latvia responded with timely three-pointers and controlled the boards down the stretch to secure a comfortable home victory.

Key Moments

• First-quarter battle: Israel matched Latvia's intensity early, with efficient ball movement keeping the score level at 22-22.
• Third-quarter surge: A 14-2 run out of the halftime locker room gave Latvia a double-digit cushion that Israel never truly threatened.
• Glass domination: Latvia outrebounded Israel 40-28, including 11 offensive rebounds that produced crucial second-chance points.

Tactical Story

Latvia head coach Luca Banchi opted for a switching defence that took away Israel's pick-and-roll rhythm. Israel's guards were forced into contested mid-range jumpers, and their big men struggled to establish deep position. Offensively, Latvia played through their versatile forwards, creating mismatches on the wing and using high screens to free shooters at the top of the key.

Israel, meanwhile, relied heavily on three-point attempts throughout the third quarter, but a icy 4-of-18 spell from behind the arc effectively ended their comeback hopes. Latvia's bench also proved decisive, contributing 34 points against just 19 from Israel's reserves.

Standout Performers

• Latvia: Dairis Bertans inspired the home crowd with 18 points on 5-of-9 shooting from three, while center Anžejs Pasečņiks added 14 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double.
• Israel: Deni Avdija led the visitors with 20 points, but struggled with the physical defence, shooting just 8-of-19 from the field. Roman Sorkin chipped in 12 points in a losing effort.

Qualifying Impact

The victory puts Latvia in early control of their qualifying group, providing a key home win before a demanding road trip. For Israel, the defeat is not fatal in the context of a lengthy qualifying window, but it highlights the need for better shot selection and ball security. Both teams will turn their attention to the next round of fixtures as the race for 2027 World Cup qualification intensifies.