Pinto cautious over promotion prospects
ZARAGOZA (FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship Division B 2016) – Portugal play-caller Agostinho Pinto is aware that his team will have to be at their best to have any chance of a return to the top tier when they step out at the FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship Division B 2016.
Currently in Zaragoza overseeing Portugal’s historic first ever appearance at the FIBA U17 Women’s World Championship he will soon turn his attention to matters in Sarajevo – where he expects a tough challenge after naming the candidates for the trip.
| Portugal squad for FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship Division B 2016 |
|||
| Ana Rua | Barbara Xabregas | Beatriz Alves | Bruna Franca |
| Carolina Rodrigues | Catarina Mateus | Celeste Almeida | Francisca Karas |
| Helena Pinheiro | Jessica Garcia | Madalena Rodrigues | Margarida Andre |
| Mariana Ferreira | Marta Esteves | ||
He stated, "Ours is the only group with five teams, which makes it more competitive, and therefore we have no room for error.
"Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as being the host country, is traditionally an uncomfortable opponent and plays good basketball.
"Finland is a selection that goes with some regularity to Division A. They play very physical and explosive basketball, characteristics that make it a very complicated opponent and which does not fit in very well.
"Romania are a team that in recent years have played at a lower level, but we have to respect them and Iceland may have not competed regularly at youth level but can be competitive and have some players with quality.
“Any unknown quantity can place difficulties for any opponent," concluded Pinto.
FIBA
