The Latvia men’s under-16 national basketball team advanced to the European Championship semifinals after defeating Greece 92-80, according to tournament match reports. Markuss Jahovičs led the scoring for Latvia with 29 points, securing a spot in the next round against Spain.
Quarterfinal Breakdown and Scoring Leaders
Latvia secured the 92-80 victory through four tightly contested quarters, overcoming early deficits to pull away late. According to game statistics, Jahovičs shot four of eight from three-point range, converted all seven free throws, and added five two-pointers.
Bendžamins Jānis Beruē contributed a double-double with 25 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocked shots, achieving an efficiency rating of 40. Gustavs Vilcāns and Markuss Aleksandrovs each added 11 points for the winning side.
For Greece, Jorgs Monama recorded 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Joannis Spans finished with 14 points and nine rebounds, while Atanasijs Spanulis contributed 11 points, as reported by match summaries.
Did you know? Latvia excelled at the free-throw line during the quarterfinal, shooting 94.74% by converting 18 of 19 attempts. Meanwhile, Greece won the battle on the boards with 43 rebounds to Latvia’s 34.
How Latvia Overcame Greece’s Early Lead
Greece initially capitalized on missed three-pointers and offensive fouls by Latvia, building a 30-21 lead early in the second quarter following a basket by Elefteras Adamopulos. A subsequent seven-point run by Latvia closed the gap, capped by two free throws from Aleksandrovs that put his team ahead 37-34.
Latvia extended its advantage in the third quarter behind successive long-range shots from Jahovičs and Beruē, taking a 54-44 lead. Although Greece narrowed the deficit to 80-82 late in the final period on a basket by Spanulis, Jahovičs responded with two consecutive three-pointers—including one from eight meters out—to secure the 92-80 final score.
Upcoming Semifinal Matchup Against Spain
Following the quarterfinal victory, Latvia advances to face Spain in the European Championship semifinals. Spain secured its semifinal berth by defeating Poland 86-74 in their respective quarterfinal matchup, according to tournament data.
The broader tournament context shows strong prior performances from the Latvian youth squad, which finished first in Group B after defeating Italy 82-70, Turkey 88-63, and the Czech Republic 95-80, before routing Serbia 99-59 in the round of 16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the top scorer for Latvia against Greece?
Markuss Jahovičs led Latvia with 29 points, including four three-pointers and seven successful free throws.
Who will Latvia play in the semifinals?
Latvia faces Spain, which advanced by defeating Poland 86-74.
What was the final score of the Latvia-Greece quarterfinal?
Latvia won the match 92-80.
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