Velicka leads Lithuania to quarterfinals, Porzingis insufficient for Latvia

(Patria) - The Lithuanian national basketball team has secured a spot among the top eight at the Eurobasket after defeating Latvia with a score of 88:79.

In the quarterfinals, the Lithuanians will face the winner of the match between Greece and Israel.

From the very start, Rimas Kurtinaitis's team imposed their rhythm and already after the first quarter had a significant advantage (28:18).

In the second quarter, we watched an equal struggle – both teams scored 19 points each, so the break was reached with a +10 lead for Lithuania.

After the break, the Lithuanians continued to control the game and won the third period, entering the last quarter with a comfortable lead (66:54).

Then Latvia played its best quarter, but it was not enough for a comeback.

The most responsible for keeping the duel uncertain was Kristaps Porzingis, who scored as many as 34 points. Alongside him in the Latvian team, Rihards Lomazs with 21 points and Rolands Smits with eight also stood out.

On the other side, Lithuania was led to victory by Arnas Velicka with 21 points, while Azuolas Tubelis and Deividas Sirvydis provided the most support with 18 points each.