MADRID (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers) - Spain will continue to have new Toronto Raptors assistant coach Sergio Scariolo at the controls of the national team in the Second Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers, the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) has announced.

The Italian, arguably the most successful coach in national team history, guided a Spain side with a host of new players in the squad to a 6-0 mark in the First Round and to within touching distance of a spot in next year's extravaganza in China.

A recent addition to the Raptors coaching staff, Scariolo has reached agreement with the NBA team that allows him to leave the side during the season to coach Spain, ensuring continuity on the bench.

"I'M VERY EXCITED TO BE ABLE TO FULFILL MY CONTRACT WITH THE SPANISH BASKETBALL FEDERATION AND TRAIN THE NATIONAL TEAM UNTIL 2020. THANKS TO THE RAPTORS FOR THEIR GENEROSITY."- Scariolo

He will continue, through 2020, at the helm of Europe's most dominant team for more than a decade.

"I'm very excited to be able to fulfill my contract with the FEB and train the team until 2020. Thanks to the Raptors for understanding my desire and generosity."

Spain under Scariolo have been terrific, winning FIBA EuroBasket crowns in 2009, 2011 and 2015 and claiming Olympic silver in 2012 and bronze in 2016. Last year, they finished third at the FIBA EuroBasket in Istanbul. In the Qualifiers, though, it would not be wrong to suggest he has done his finest job with the national side.

The Spaniards have thrived with players like Quino Colom blossoming. The point guard has averaged team bests in points (15.0ppg) and assists (5.3apg).

Coming up in the Second Round, Spain will have to go up against Turkey, Latvia and Ukraine. They will attempt to finish in the top three of a Group I that also has Montenegro and Slovenia.

Spain resume their Qualifiers campaign on September 14 at Ukraine and then host Latvia on September 17.

FIBA