Latvian basketball is writing another chapter. The men’s national team just punched their ticket to the second round of the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.

It wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. The squad dismantled Austria 112:66 right here in Riga.

Finishing second in their group behind Poland, the stakes are now officially raised. Next up, Latvia faces heavyweights like Croatia, Germany, and Israel in the upcoming qualifying stage.

But before the real grind continues through March 2027, the team has some tune-up work to do. They’re hosting a friendly against Ukraine this August.

And yes, local sports coverage confirms that we might see some NBA stars lacing up for that matchup.

This success isn’t isolated. Following the incredible run of our 3×3 national squad recently, the basketball culture in Latvia has never been more electric.

Whether it’s on the asphalt or the hardwood, the country is producing talent that the rest of Europe can’t ignore.

For now, all eyes are on the upcoming friendly and the tough group matches ahead. The journey to the 2027 FIBA World Cup is officially heating up.