BK Ventspils Edged by Valmiera in Thrilling Latvijas Basketbola līga Finish

Ventspils, Latvia – May 15, 2026 – In a heart-stopping Latvijas Basketbola līga contest, BK Ventspils fell just short against Valmiera, losing 92–89 at the Ventspils Olimpiskais Centrs. The game featured 10 lead changes and a dramatic final minute that saw Valmiera hold on for the road win.

Match Overview

Both teams traded baskets throughout, with neither able to build a double-digit lead. Ventspils, known for their home-court advantage, came out strong but Valmiera’s aggressive defense kept them in the game. The score was tied at 44–44 at halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half.

Key Moments

Third Quarter Momentum: Valmiera opened the third with a 10–3 run, but Ventspils answered with a 12–2 spurt to retake the lead, 65–62, heading into the fourth.
Final Minute Drama: With the score tied at 89–89 and 30 seconds left, Valmiera’s guard Jānis Bērziņš drove the lane and drew a foul, converting both free throws. Ventspils missed a contested three-pointer at the buzzer.
Free Throw Battle: Both teams shot well from the line, but Valmiera’s 18-of-20 free throw performance (90%) proved decisive.

Standout Performers

Valmiera: Jānis Bērziņš finished with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, including the game-winning free throws. Forward Kārlis Zariņš added 20 points and 8 boards.

BK Ventspils: Center Mārtiņš Lūsis had a dominant double-double: 24 points and 14 rebounds. Guard Artūrs Strautiņš chipped in 22 points, but his missed three at the end sealed Ventspils’ fate.

Season Impact

The loss drops Ventspils to 13–9, while Valmiera improves to 14–8. Both teams are battling for a top-four seed in the league playoffs. The result also gives Valmiera a crucial head-to-head advantage, as they won the previous meeting earlier this season.