Klemen Prepelič Leads Slovenia’s Late Comeback Against Latvia in Tivoli

Prepelič Inspires Slovenia to Dramatic 89–86 Win Over Latvia in Tivoli

Slovenia returned to the historic Hala Tivoli with a dramatic 89–86 victory over Latvia on Wednesday evening. In their first preparation game ahead of the crucial 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers, the Slovenian national team overturned a 13-point deficit with an outstanding final quarter.

The game carried special significance, as Slovenia played in Tivoli again after a long absence. The home side started brightly, but Latvia took control through the middle stages before Klemen Prepelič delivered a captain’s performance in the closing minutes.

Slovenia Start Strong, Latvia Respond

Slovenia opened the game with energy and established an early advantage. The hosts led 22–17 after the first quarter, with the experienced group of Klemen Prepelič, Aleksej Nikolić and Alen Omić setting the early tone.

Latvia responded strongly in the second period. The visitors opened the quarter with a 7–0 run and gradually turned the momentum in their favour. Slovenia struggled to maintain its offensive rhythm, while Latvia punished mistakes and took a 45–38 lead into half-time.

The Latvian side continued to build its advantage after the break. A three-pointer from Kārlis Šiliņš pushed the visitors into a double-digit lead early in the third quarter, and Latvia later extended the margin to 13 points with just over seven minutes remaining in the game.

Slovenia Produce a Stunning Final Quarter

With the match seemingly slipping away, Slovenia found a response through its experience, intensity and fighting spirit. A three-pointer from Nikolić, followed by points from Omić and young forward Lovro Faganel, reduced the deficit and brought the home crowd back into the game.

Gregor Glas then hit a crucial three-pointer to cut the gap to 76–77. From that moment, Prepelič took full control of the game.

The Slovenian captain first tied the score from beyond the arc, answered a Latvian three-pointer with another long-range basket of his own, and then attacked the basket to give Slovenia renewed belief. Prepelič scored an incredible 11 points in the final two and a half minutes of the match.

Captain Delivers in the Closing Moments

Slovenia held its nerve in a tense finish. Rok Radović secured an important offensive rebound after a missed shot by Glas, allowing Prepelič to draw a foul on a three-point attempt. The captain converted two free throws to put Slovenia in a strong position.

Latvia still had one final chance, but Slovenia defended the closing possession well. Gregor Hrovat then made two decisive free throws to secure the 89–86 win and complete a memorable comeback in Tivoli.

Prepelič Leads the Scorers

Prepelič finished with a superb 31 points, including six three-pointers, and was the key figure in Slovenia’s victory. Aleksej Nikolić and Martin Krampelj each added 12 points, while Alen Omić contributed 10.

For Latvia, Rihards Lomažs scored 22 points. Kristaps Kilps, Kārlis Šiliņš and Kristers Zoriks added eight points each.

Important Preparation Before World Cup Qualifiers

The win provided Slovenia with a valuable confidence boost ahead of the second stage of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers. Slovenia will next face Montenegro in Celje before turning full attention to upcoming qualification games against France and Hungary.

Match Details

• Match: Slovenia 89–86 Latvia
• Competition: International Friendly / World Cup Qualifiers Preparation
• Date: 19 August 2026
• Venue: Hala Tivoli, Ljubljana
• Quarter Scores: 22–17, 16–28, 17–19, 34–22
• Slovenia Top Scorer: Klemen Prepelič – 31 points
• Latvia Top Scorer: Rihards Lomažs – 22 points

Sources: RTV Slovenija, Delo