Vyacheslav Kravtsov confirmed his readiness to help the Ukrainian national basketball team in the upcoming World Cup pre-qualification matches this August. The 37-year-old veteran shared his thoughts on team preparation, roster changes, and expectations for games against Switzerland and Slovakia.
"I'm ready to help the national team – this is the main motivation for me," Kravtsov stated when discussing his potential participation in the summer tournament.
The experienced center noted that Ukraine's national team has undergone significant changes recently, which has affected their performance in the EuroBasket 2025 qualifiers. Veterans are gradually stepping away while younger players are still gaining experience.
"During the team's successful periods, the roster barely changed – just two or three players at most. In recent years, the national team has changed significantly," he explained.
Kravtsov spoke highly of the new frontcourt players joining the squad. He was particularly impressed with Novitskiy, predicting a bright future for him. Regarding Sipalo, Kravtsov sees similarities to himself at that age, appreciating the player's versatility and understanding of timing. He also mentioned Klichko, noting the young player's size but acknowledging he still has development ahead after starting basketball relatively late.
By the way, Kravtsov also addressed the return of coach Ainars Bagatskis to the national team. "This is 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. Besides, we've already worked with him before. We know many things, so it will be easier to adapt."
The upcoming matches against Switzerland and Slovakia won't be easy, according to Kravtsov. "I expect it to be very difficult. The toughest groups are those where teams are at almost the same level. It won't be decided by skill, but by experience and concentration in each game."
Ukraine will begin their campaign with an away game against Switzerland on August 6. Their nominally home matches will be played on August 9 against Slovakia and August 16 against Switzerland. The final match will take place in Slovakia on August 20.
Kravtsov also expressed concern about players who easily decline national team call-ups. "I also have complaints about some players. Why can they so easily refuse to join the training camp or national team call-up? I hope this won't happen in summer and everyone who is called up will come."
Will the full-strength Ukrainian squad be able to advance from Group A to the main World Cup qualification stage? With veterans like Kravtsov ready to contribute and promising young talent in the pipeline, the chances look promising – but everything will be decided on the court.
