Janis Strelnieks ('89) is one of the best interesting prospects coming from Latvia. The point-guard hasn't moved from Ventspils for many years, leading the team in a few competitions every season. He is currently averaging 9.8 points, 4.7 assists and 4.1 rebounds in the EuroChallenge, but he also shines in the Baltic League: 10.4+3.7+2.2.
-After many seasons playing with Ventspils do you want to make a step forward to another country or do you prefer keep growing at home?
It is hard to say, because this season was really tough and I would not say I played my best game so far. But speaking generally, yes, of course, I would like to take a step forward and try out somewhere else, but in order to do that I have to work hard to keep it up.
-You already played with your senior NT, finishing with good stats the games of the European Championship Qualifications last summer. How do you see the next Latvian generation, with prospects like Vecvagars ('93), Silins ('93), Reinfelds ('94), Meteikovics ('94),...
As far as I know many young basketball players choose to keep playing basketball abroad and personally I think that they made the right choice, and it is good for them. Some of them will still have to play in U19 World Championship this summer, that will be held in Latvia. That will be a great time to make a big step forward in their careers. These guys are very good, and I know they will all make it.
-Next summer Latvia will play the Eurobasket of Lithuania in group B with powerhouse teams like Serbia or France. What are your chances?
Everything depends on who will play in National Team. If it is going to be similar to last year's team then Latvia will probably not be one of the favourite teams, but the team will still go out there and do its best, and will try to surprise other teams. For those young players who will make the National Team, it will be a great experience.