Second European Games in Belarus

Minsk European Games atmosphere seen as engaging for athletes, fans

Radu Petre

MINSK, 21 June (BelTA) – The atmosphere of the 2nd European Games in Minsk is engaging for both athletes and sport fans, technical delegate of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Radu Petre told BelTA.

“As a representative of the International Basketball Federation, I want to congratulate Minsk on the opening of the 2nd European Games. The morning 3x3 basketball matches have already drawn a lot of foreign guests. The press center has also been very lively. I am happy that basketball has received such attention at the games among 14 more sports. One can already feel the atmosphere of the European Games. This competitive spirit is engaging for both athletes and sport fans,” Radu Petre said.

He also mentioned the advantages of Palova Arena. “This sport facility is a well-known venue. Several years ago it hosted the FIBA European Championship for Juniors. Belarus prepared for the championship well then and I believe that the European Games tournament will match the level of a world cup or Olympic Games. The court, the scoreboard, the mixed zone, the warm-up court are all new and modern,” he noted.

Radu Petre also noted how intense is the competition itself. “The first games of the women’s tournament showed how strong are the teams. The Czech Republic managed to beat Hungary 20:19 only in overtime. I expect that men’s tournament will be no less fascinating,” he said.

The 3x3 basketball tournaments will run till 24 June. A total of 16 women’s and 16 men’s teams have been divided into four groups each for the group stage. Two best teams from every group will qualify for the playoff due on 24 June.

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