Vyacheslav Kravtsov, the 37-year-old Ukrainian basketball veteran, has opened up about the national team's preparation for upcoming World Championship pre-qualification matches against Switzerland and Slovakia. The experienced center provided a frank assessment of the squad's readiness and young talent during a recent media session.
"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 as well," Kravtsov explained, highlighting his continued motivation.
The big man didn't shy away from addressing Ukraine's struggles in EuroBasket 2025 qualification. He pointed to significant roster changes as a key factor affecting team performance.
"When a team undergoes major roster changes, it always experiences stress. During the national team's successful periods, the roster barely changed—just two or three players at most. In recent years, the national team has changed significantly. Veterans are gradually stepping away, while younger players perhaps lack confidence and experience."
Kravtsov seems particularly impressed with the talent pipeline developing in Ukraine's frontcourt. He singled out Novytskyi as a standout prospect.
"Novytskyi is a very strong player. I predict a great future for him—he really impressed me," noted Kravtsov. "As for Sypalo and Klychko, it depends on how things unfold. They're very talented players."
Interestingly, Kravtsov sees something of himself in young Sypalo. "He reminds me of myself at his age. He's gaining weight now and has good athleticism. He understands the game and timing."
Regarding 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, and we need to work with him. Plus, we've already worked with him before, so we know many things and adaptation will be easier."
Looking ahead to this summer's pre-qualification tournament, Kravtsov expressed his willingness to contribute. "It doesn't depend on me. The coach forms the roster and will decide who to call up to camp. We'll see. I haven't spoken with Ainars Bagatskis yet. I'm ready to help the national team—that's my main motivation."
Kravtsov expects tight contests in Group A against Switzerland and Slovakia. "I expect it to be very difficult. The toughest groups are those where teams are at almost the same level. It won't be skill that decides, but experience and concentration for each game."
The veteran also echoed sentiments from Mykhailo Brodsky, president of the Ukrainian Basketball Federation, regarding player commitment. "I also have complaints about some players. Why can they so easily refuse a camp invitation or national team call-up? I hope this won't happen in summer and everyone who's called up will come."
Ukraine begins its World Championship pre-qualification campaign with an away game against Switzerland on August 6. The team will then face Slovakia on August 9 and Switzerland again on August 16 in home matches, before concluding the group stage with an away game in Slovakia on August 20.
Can Ukraine secure one of the two qualifying spots from Group A? With Kravtsov potentially providing veteran leadership alongside developing young talent, the team's chances certainly look stronger.
