The Ukraine U20 team is preparing to participate in the European Basketball Championship, which will take place from July 12 to 20. Coach Valeriy Plekhano shared his expectations for the tournament in Heraklion, Greece. This event will be particularly significant as the 'blue-yellow' team will compete in the elite division for the first time in three years.
The team earned its place in the elite after successful performances in the previous season. In a group with Germany, Italy, and Belgium, the Ukrainians will compete in the top division. The coach hopes for support and discipline within the team during challenging matches.
Regarding experience before starting in the elite division: 'None of the players had experience in division A at U16 or U18. This is a new challenge that will require a lot from us. There is some anxiety, but we are ready for this challenge.'
The difference between basketball in divisions A and B: 'These are absolutely different levels. In division A, the physical load is much greater, but we are ready for this challenge.'
Ukraine National Team Roster for EuroBasket-2025 (U20)
Guards: Rafael Kolavole, Ilya Lishina, Yegor Sushkin, Ilya Upir, Andrey Butko
Forwards: Artem Romanytsia, Luka Lokhmantsuk, Andrey Sitar, Vitaliy Kuznetsov
Centers: Maksym Oleksandr Klichko, Desmond Yamu, Daniil Sipalo
Ukraine's Match Schedule in the Group Stage
- Saturday, July 12. 18:00. Germany - Ukraine
- Sunday, July 13. 20:30. Ukraine - Belgium
- Monday, July 14. 20:30. Italy - Ukraine
The Ukraine U20 team is preparing for a tough performance at EuroBasket-2025, where they will compete in the elite division for the first time in three years. The coach and players feel the responsibility to their country and are ready to raise the flag of Ukraine at international competitions.