Mestdagh cautiously ambitious ahead of Final Round return

BRUSSELS (FIBA EuroBasket Women 2017) – As Belgium edge closer to appearing at the Final Round for the first time in a decade, head coach Philip Mestdagh is confident his team can make a positive splash.

Few observers of the women’s game would disagree that if they stay clear of injuries and foul trouble, they might just be able to make a deep run in the competition.

Not least because they have some high-class players such as Emma Meesseman and also veterans at both ends of the floor.

"We’re heading to EuroBasket Women and we’re ambitious. Our first goal is to reach the second round which means a spot in the Quarter-Finals," revealed Mestdagh.

"Our group of players does lack experience, since from our last stint at EuroBasket Women in 2007, only Ann Wauters and Marjorie Carpreaux are still with the team.

"That’s why it’s so important to have Ann with us during the tournament. I respect her decision and acknowledge that she will only go to Prague if she’s physically ready 100%.

"But if Ann can play, we definitely have a shot to go far with [Emma] Meesseman and a talented young roster."

However, the play-caller was quick to dampen any pressure that may accrue on the shoulder of his players because of his own confidence in them.

He added: "We’re not talking about a ticket to the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2018 [and a top six finish].

"Getting through the first round will be the first step and winning our opening game against Montenegro will be crucial.

"If we’re able to win that game, we might have to adjust our goals, since in a tournament with 16 teams, there are no weak nations.

"Spain, Russia and France are amongst the favorites, as always. However, all teams bring talent and quality basketball at the EuroBasket Women Final Round and hopefully we can play our part too."

Mestdagh and his players will engage in their first preparation games this weekend with a double-header on home soil against Slovak Republic.

FIBA