Source: fbu.ua
Ukraine national team head coach Ainars Bagatskis shared his thoughts ahead of the squad’s first friendly match, scheduled for June 25 in Riga. Ukraine will face Angola, with live coverage set to begin at 16:00 UTC.
Reflecting on the initial phase of the training camp, Bagatskis explained that the first two days involved limited physical contact as the team focused on rehearsing offensive and defensive schemes. The coaching staff aimed to maintain the players’ fitness levels, considering some had been out of competitive action for a while since their club seasons ended. This period was used to refresh familiar tactics while integrating new elements in preparation for upcoming games, especially the crucial fixture against Georgia. The two friendlies against Angola and Lithuania will serve as tests for the team’s current preparations.
When asked about the overall physical condition of the squad, Bagatskis noted that the players’ fitness varies. Some are in good shape, while others are not. Throughout the season, players have had different roles—some featuring regularly, others with limited minutes, and some not playing at all. Maintaining peak form without consistent game time is challenging, as the best basketball fitness is achieved through match practice. The team comprises a mix of these situations, and the coaching staff must find a way to bring everyone to a consistent competitive level.
Regarding the integration of new players and those returning to the national team after a long absence, Bagatskis expressed satisfaction with the team’s atmosphere. He emphasized that both coaches and players enjoy their time together and that the players appreciate being united. He reiterated his expectation that every player will perform at their best for the national team.
On the objectives for the Angola match, Bagatskis admitted it is difficult to specify. His focus is not on Angola’s tactics but on maximizing the talents within his squad. The priority is to prepare effectively for the upcoming game against Georgia. The friendlies against Angola and Lithuania are intended as opportunities to test the team. Even if some things do not work out in the Angola game, the experience will help the team be better prepared for the Georgian clash. The coaching staff concentrates on preparing for players rather than teams. For example, against Georgia, they need to be ready for key players like Reid, Shengelia, and Bitadze. This is more critical than focusing on Lithuanian stars such as Valančiūnas, Jakutionis, and Buželis, since the Lithuania game is part of the build-up to facing Georgia.
When asked about similarities between Angola and Georgia, Bagatskis said he had watched Angola’s recent match and found them sufficiently physical, fast, and aggressive. While there may be some parallels with Georgia, Angola’s players tend to be bigger.
Looking ahead to how Ukraine’s style might evolve compared to previous windows, Bagatskis reflected on recent video analysis of past games. He highlighted that in matches against Spain and especially Georgia, the team played at a fast pace. The approach should be aggressive, aiming to disrupt opponents’ defense and push the tempo. However, it is equally important to play intelligently. Against Georgia’s defensive setups, Ukraine encountered many situations in the first game in Tbilisi that they failed to exploit initially. After adjusting their defense, they gained an advantage. Therefore, the team must combine speed with smart decision-making on the court.
