Vyacheslav Kravtsov has shared his thoughts on Ukraine's national basketball team's preparation for the upcoming World Championship pre-qualification matches. The 37-year-old veteran center remains committed to representing his country as long as he continues his club career.
"As long as I'm called up to the national team, that's good. When I finish playing for the national team, it will mean I've ended my club career," Kravtsov explained.
The experienced big man addressed Ukraine's recent struggles in Euro Basket 2025 qualification, pointing to significant roster changes as a key factor. He believes the transition period with veterans gradually stepping aside and youngsters lacking experience has created challenges for the team.
Kravtsov spoke highly of the newcomers in Ukraine's frontcourt, particularly Novytskyi, whom he predicts has a bright future. He also shared interesting observations about Sypalo, noting similarities to himself at a younger age.
"Sypalo is very versatile. He reminds me of myself at his age. He's gaining weight now, has good athleticism. He understands the game and timing. I see myself in him at his age," the veteran center remarked.
Regarding Klychko, Kravtsov noted that while the young player has size, he still needs development to reach a professional level, having started basketball relatively late.
When asked about the return of coach Ainars Bagatskis, Kravtsov took a pragmatic approach. "That's life. Coaches change. I'm on good terms with everyone so I can't say much on this topic. A new coach has arrived, we need to work with him. Plus, we've already worked with him before. We know many things, it will be easier to adapt."
Looking ahead to the summer pre-qualification tournament, Kravtsov expressed his readiness to help the national team if called upon, though he hasn't yet spoken with Bagatskis about his potential role.
Ukraine faces a challenging Group A with Switzerland and Slovakia. Kravtsov expects tight competitions, suggesting that experience, concentration, and desire—rather than skill alone—will determine the outcomes when teams of similar levels face each other.
By the way, Kravtsov strongly supported Ukrainian Basketball Federation president Mykhailo Brodsky's position on player commitment, expressing concern about how easily some players decline national team call-ups.
"I remember years when 20-30 national team players would come, everyone wanted to make the roster. I also have complaints about some players. Why can they so easily refuse a training camp or a call-up to the national team? I hope this won't happen in the summer and everyone who's called up will come," he stated firmly.
Ukraine will begin their campaign with an away game against Switzerland on August 6, followed by home matches against Slovakia (August 9) and Switzerland (August 16), before concluding with an away game in Slovakia on August 20. Can this mix of veterans and promising youth secure Ukraine's advancement to the main World Championship qualification stage? The coming weeks will tell.
