RIGA (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017) – Anete Steinberga is ready to lead Latvia into a potentially exciting new era when they take to the hardwood at FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017 next month.

The Baltic nation will touch down on Czech soil without Anete Jakobsone-Zogota, but having jointly top scored with the legendary figure at the last edition of the tournament two years ago, Steinberga is eager for the team to turn a new page.

"We can feel that there is a switch of generations that has already happened and might still happen even further after this tournament," mused the center, who will be expected to play a big role along with the likes of Elina Babkina, Kristine Vitola and Gunta Basko-Melnbarde.

"I feel that we will have some important challenges ahead of us in terms of making sure that we complete the team for Czech Republic and making sure that we are ready.

"But, I believe that by staying together and working closely with the coach, we can make sure that the new generation are able to help us.

"I know that we can't be left crying about who might be missing compared to the past and I am confident that we will all be determined to show our best and now move forward.

"Especially as we have some good and interesting younger players."

FIBA EuroBasket Women 2015 was certainly eventful for Latvia and Steinberga. Her first game led to an astonishing five fouls in seven minutes against Serbia – yet she composed herself to rack up 61 points across the next three games.

Latvia made history with a first-ever win in the tournament against their mighty neighbors Russia, but this famous high-tide mark was overshadowed as they suffered a painful first round exit – a rarity for a team who went 2-2 in the opening phase.

Now, they face the realistic prospect of another fall at the first hurdle as they contemplate a hugely difficult Group which includes Belgium, Montenegro and a re-match against a resurgent Russia who are being tipped by many as a podium front-runner.

"With no sense of strong leaders, our goal is to play, even more than ever, as a team," stated Steinberga, who is heading back to Castors Braine when the tournament concludes – having spent the past two seasons with ZVVZ USK Prague.

"We must not only play hard defense, but we must play hard on offense too and make sure that we take advantage of everything that our opponents give to us.

"We know that we will play against some very good frontcourts and I think we will have to make sure that we are smart and can play a faster style of basketball – this could be the key."

While Latvia will be without Jekabsone-Zogota, they still have vast experience and leadership to harness in the shape of Basko-Melnbarde, while there is great excitement about rising stars such as Kitija Laksa and sister act, Paula and Digna Strautmane.

FIBA