Ainaras BAGATSKIS: “It is my duty to help basketball in Ukraine”

Coach of the Ukrainian men’s basketball team Ainars Bagatskiler He commented on the extension of the contract ahead of the upcoming 2023 World Cup qualifiers:

“I agreed to continue working with the Ukrainian national team, even though my contract expired after the European Championship. This offer is an honor for me and it is my direct responsibility to help Ukrainian basketball.

As long as there are theoretical chances, we must keep fighting for the World Cup. There are definite ideas about the upcoming matches, because in the next meetings we will again meet a slightly different team and other players. I like to keep in mind the idea that we should take advantage of every opportunity.

It’s important to keep working on getting the players accustomed to the winners mentality of the team. Every match should be like the previous one for us. We have to play our basketball, think about our game, and tune in just to win. Once qualified, we’ll analyze and see what works for us and what doesn’t.”

It should be noted that the national basketball team of Ukraine will face the Netherlands away on November 11, and will play against Iceland on November 14.

Yesterday, October 16, Ainars Bagatskis officially extended his contract with the national team of Ukraine.