Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis to lead Latvia’s first FIBA World Cup effort

Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis is set to represent Latvia in country’s first FIBA World Cup campaign.

The country of Latvia is headed to its first-ever FIBA World Cup appearance, and new Boston Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis will soon be leading the charge for his native country when play tips off this August. Latvia will join a field of Canada, Lebanon, and France in Group H as part of the Jakarta phase.

Porzingis is a key player for the Latvian team as the most accomplished of his countrymen in the NBA, contributing 25.5 points per game to go with 14.0 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per contest during the qualifying period. The 27-year-old was thrilled when his team officially qualified for the 2023 FIBA World Cup last year.

“It’s when I most enjoy playing basketball, when it’s with the national team,” Porzingis said, “It’s going to be a great experience for everyone, not just me, the team, but our families and fans. It’s going to be spectacular.”