Nicosia: Cyprus’ national basketball team is determined to make a competitive showing in its first-ever EuroBasket appearance, head coach Christoforos Livadiotis and team captain Nikos Stylianou said on Wednesday at a press conference ahead of the Group C games, which will take place at the Spyros Kyprianou Athletic Center from August 28 to September 4.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Livadiotis acknowledged Cyprus enters as the underdog but stressed the importance of fan support. “We don’t hide that we’re the outsiders. We faced top teams like France, Bosnia, and Croatia during the qualifiers. The fans stood by us then, and I’m sure they’ll do so again,” he said.
The coach praised his players’ efforts over the past two months, saying they worked tirelessly to close the gap with stronger opponents. “These players are fighters, and they love what they do,” he added.
Stylianou noted that opening against Bosnia and Herzegovina could work in Cyprus’ favour. “We played them recently, so we know a few things.
They’re a good team with experienced, high-level players,” he said.
Both Livadiotis and Stylianou pointed out the honor of hosting EuroBasket in Cyprus and wearing the national jersey, pledging to make the country proud. The captain also stressed the long-term goal of inspiring more children to take up basketball and grow the sport locally.
Cyprus faces Bosnia and Herzegovina on August 28 at 18:15, followed by games against Greece, Spain, Georgia, and Italy.