Rolands Smits and Artūrs Žagars on Baskonia's Radar

The Vitoria-based club is studying the incorporation of two Latvian internationals to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season. In addition to their EuroLeague experience, both would qualify as homegrown players.

Baskonia continues exploring the market in search of reinforcements and has placed Rolands Smits and Artūrs Žagars on its list of possible signings. According to local media reports, the two Latvian players are options the Vitoria club is considering to complete its roster for the 2026/27 season.

The homegrown player status of both players increases the appeal of the potential moves. Baskonia needs to strengthen different positions while keeping in mind the roster configuration requirements of the Liga Endesa, so finding Spanish or homegrown players with experience in Europe's top competition represents significant added value.

Žagars appears as an alternative for the point guard position. The 26-year-old, 1.90-meter base was developed during his time at Joventut Badalona and CB Prat, a circumstance that allows him to occupy a homegrown player slot. According to published reports, the Latvian international also has an offer from Penya, although the possibility of continuing to play EuroLeague could favor Baskonia's interest.

His profile would fit the search for a point guard with the ability to create advantages, assist, and assume offensive responsibilities. The Vitoria club must rebuild the point guard position following recent roster moves, and Žagars would be one of the alternatives being studied by the front office.

Rolands Smits, meanwhile, would strengthen the power forward position. The Latvian big man is well acquainted with the Liga Endesa following his stints at Fuenlabrada and FC Barcelona, clubs where he completed his development before continuing his career with top-level European teams.

Smits would bring size, experience, and outside shooting threat from the power forward position. His ability to space the floor, play off the ball, and compete physically on both ends makes him an interesting profile for a roster that still needs to add pieces in several positions.

For now, the names of Smits and Žagars should be considered options on Baskonia's agenda and not closed deals. The Vitoria club is studying different alternatives before advancing in the reconstruction of a team that will compete in both the Liga Endesa and EuroLeague.

Source: encestando.es