By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
The latest setback concerning the health of young players competing in the 2023 FIBA U18 European Championship will not force scheduling changes, upon the agreement of all involved sides.
Players and members of six national teams, Finland, Greece, Lithuania, Slovenia, Spain and Turkey, showed symptoms of viral infection, as announced by FIBA yesterday, Tuesday. Updating the status of the junior international tournament, FIBA confirmed all games to be held as scheduled today, Wednesday.
Per the press release: “The six teams – Finland, Greece, Lithuania, Slovenia, Spain and Turkey – affected by what appears to be a viral infection confirmed they will play their games as scheduled, today.
FIBA and the organizers have offered the affected teams the option to reschedule today’s games to Thursday, but all concerned agreed to instead proceed as per original program.
Some of the teams’ personnel continue to be weakened by the illness but the majority of those affected have either recovered or on their way to full recovery.
The Serbian Basketball Federation are waiting for the official results of the tests conducted by the relevant health authorities investigating the exact cause of the illness.
FIBA, the Serbian Basketball Federation and the local health authorities will continue to monitor the situation and share any updates with all stakeholders accordingly.”
Earlier in the U18 European championship, numerous games were held under unsafe conditions on a slippery floor.
All 16 teams were placed in the bracket of the knockout stage, depending on ranking in the preliminary round. From the Round of 16 contests today, the Quarterfinals will follow Thursday. The semifinals and Finals will take place Saturday and Sunday.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL