Eight years after heartbreak in Istanbul, Kristaps Porzingis leads Latvia into their biggest basketball moment as Riga hosts the continent’s elite from August 27 to September 14.
Xiaomi Arena becomes the tournament’s centerpiece, hosting not just Group A action but the entire knockout phase where 16 teams will fight for European supremacy. The 11,200-seat venue on Skanstes Street transforms into basketball’s most coveted stage from September 6-14.
For Latvia, this represents redemption after missing EuroBasket 2017 entirely. The nation that shocked the basketball world with a fifth-place World Cup finish in 2023 now gets to showcase that talent on home court.
Latvia’s Golden Opportunity
The timing couldn’t be better for Latvia’s national team. Fresh off their impressive fifth-place finish at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, they return to EuroBasket 2025 after missing the 2017 tournament entirely.
“Once in a lifetime, once in a basketball career you get this kind of opportunity, especially for us as a small country. That’s why there’s no looking back, we have to give 100 percent when we’re out there and enjoy every single second on the floor,” said Kristaps Porzingis, Latvia’s NBA championship winner with the Boston Celtics.
The 30-year-old center headlines Latvia’s 12-man roster under head coach Luca Banchi. Porzingis returns to national duty for the first time since 2017, bringing eight years of NBA experience and a championship pedigree to Riga.
Star Power Comes Home
Latvia’s roster combines veteran leadership with emerging talent. The Bertans brothers — Davis and Dairis — provide championship experience, while breakout World Cup star Arturs Zagars returns as the team’s primary playmaker.
“Kristaps is the guy that makes everyone else better. It’s super easy to play when he’s on the court, because obviously he takes most of the defense’s attention,” said Dairis Bertans.
The team’s chemistry appears strong under Banchi’s leadership, with players describing “the best vibes” in the locker room. Their preparation included wins over Italy and Slovenia, though losses to Lithuania and Greece highlighted the tournament’s competitive depth.
Group A Battleground
Latvia faces a challenging Group A draw. Serbia enters as tournament favorites, led by three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic. Türkiye brings NBA talent including Alperen Sengun, while traditional powers Czechia and Portugal round out dangerous opposition.
“Obviously, Serbia is a big, big challenge. Probably number one, or top three, for sure, team of the tournament on paper,” Porzingis acknowledged. “Everybody can surprise you, we just have to be locked in.”
Latvia opens against Türkiye on August 27 at 17:00 CET, marking the beginning of their home tournament journey.
City Preparations
Riga has embraced its hosting duties with special urban decorations and enhanced security measures throughout the tournament period. The city government published comprehensive guides for international visitors, highlighting local attractions between games.
The tournament represents both a sporting spectacle and economic opportunity for Latvia. Thousands of international fans will descend on Riga, with the knockout phase guaranteeing extended stays for traveling supporters.
Championship Ambitions
Latvia’s fast-paced playing style under Banchi mirrors successful modern basketball trends. “We’re gonna play fast. We need to play fast. We need to play moving the ball, using each other, selflessly,” Porzingis explained.
The team’s World Cup success provides confidence, though home pressure adds complexity. Latvia finished fifth in Jakarta and Manila, defeating traditional powers and announcing their arrival among Europe’s elite.
With Porzingis healthy and motivated, Latvia possesses the talent to challenge for medals on home soil. The EuroBasket 2025 format favors depth and adaptability — qualities Latvia demonstrated throughout their World Cup run.
The tournament kicks off August 27, with Riga ready to showcase both its hospitality and basketball prowess on Europe’s biggest stage.
