By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Spain head coach Chus Mateo has announced a 16-player roster for the second qualification window for the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar, placing his trust in the core that delivered two victories last November.
Spanish national team will face Ukraine twice — first in Riga on February 27, and then in Oviedo on March 2.
Veterans such as Jaime Fernández — who will serve as captain — along with Pierre Oriola, Santi Yusta, and Oriol Paulí provide leadership, while prospects like Izan Almansa, Álvaro Cárdenas, and Isaac Nogués represent the new generation of “La Familia.”
Spain will begin preparations on February 23 in Guadalajara before traveling to Latvia for the first matchup. Afterward, the team will head to Oviedo, where they hope to secure a second win in front of home fans — results that would significantly strengthen their path toward World Cup qualification.
Speaking about the call-ups, Mateo emphasized commitment and continuity as key factors behind his choices.
“Our goal is to keep adding wins and show our best version,” he said, noting that injuries disrupted the original group but expressing confidence in the motivation of both returning players and newcomers.