Latvia's Berzins in terrific form
RIGA (VTB United League/EuroBasket 2015) - All one needs to know about the importance of Kaspars Berzins to the teams he plays for, be it Latvia's national side or Krasnye Krylia in Russia, is summed up in
RIGA (VTB United League/EuroBasket 2015) - All one needs to know about the importance of Kaspars Berzins to the teams he plays for, be it Latvia's national side or Krasnye Krylia in Russia, is summed up in one word - vital.
The 29-year-old power forward was a pivotal player for the national team last summer when it successfully made it through the 2nd Qualification Round, averaging 12.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Latvia finished ahead of Romania, Sweden and the Slovak Republic in Group F.
He is now averaging 15.7 points and 7.5 rebounds for Krylia in the VTB United League.
When Latvia host EuroBasket Group D this coming September, Berzins will no doubt be a focal point of his team's attack - just as he was in their closest game at home against Sweden on 20 August of last year.
In that 2nd Qualification Round, Berzins dominated and also came up with a tip-in off a missed free-throw to force overtime in a 79-76 victory for Latvia.
When it was over, he had 23 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks.
Now, following a stint in Spain with Rio Natura Monbus (Obradoiro), he is playing in Russia and the VTB United League is proving to be a good fit.
In his last four games, he has averaged just under 23 points per outing while in his last six, he has pulled down 10.5 boards.
"I've understood our team's style of play since the beginning of the season," he said.
"That's why I fit in at Krasnye Krylia pretty quickly."
One of Berzins's finest outings came in Round 15.
MVP of the Round 15 - Kaspars Berzins: 26pts, 8reb, 3ass, 4bl, 33eff http://t.co/g8KoK4wl4q @krasnyekrylia pic.twitter.com/rhg9f9WHNu
— VTB United League (@VTBUnitedLeague) January 13, 2015As a "stretch-four", Berzins can mix it up with opponents on the inside but also step out and hit three-pointers.
"When I was a kid, my coaches noticed that I was good at it, that I had a feel for the shot," he said.
"They had me shoot from the perimeter.
"The same was true in the youth leagues.
"Over time, I earned a reputation as a shooter."
Berzins, who was speaking to the VTB United League website, added: "I work on my shot every day.
"I only use it if it's needed, based on the situation or play that our team is using on the court."
Latvia fans will be hoping that Berzins remains healthy and returns home this summer to be an integral player for the country.
If he maintains his current form, it's going to help them have a great EuroBasket.
FIBA