Latvian Influence in the EuroLeague: Dāvis Bertāns and Rolands Šmits Make Their Mark

The EuroLeague landscape has seen a significant Latvian presence this season, as established stars Dāvis Bertāns and Rolands Šmits continue to deliver high-impact performances for their respective clubs. While the two athletes have navigated different paths through the continent’s premier basketball competition, their contributions have been pivotal in their teams’ early-season and mid-season campaigns.

For Dāvis Bertāns, the current season represents a new chapter with BC Dubai. The veteran forward, known throughout his career as the “Latvian Laser,” has brought his signature perimeter shooting to the United Arab Emirates-based club, which competes in both the ABA League and the EuroLeague.

A Statement Debut for Bertāns and BC Dubai

Bertāns’ return to the EuroLeague stage was marked by a dominant performance during BC Dubai’s debut game on September 30, 2025. Facing off against Belgradas “Partizan,” Bertāns wasted no time reminding the league of his scoring capabilities. In a contest that ended in an 89:76 victory for Dubai, the Latvian forward played 26 minutes and 15 seconds, finishing with 20 points.

His efficiency was a hallmark of the game; Bertāns connected on five of seven attempts from beyond the arc and was perfect from the field on his only two-point attempt. He similarly added three rebounds, four assists, and one steal to his stat line. Notably, Bertāns scored the first two points in BC Dubai’s EuroLeague history and accounted for 11 of his team’s first 16 points, including a stretch of three consecutive three-pointers.

Dubai’s victory was a collective effort, supported by Janan Musa’s 19 points, Mfiondu Kabengele’s 15 points, and Filip Petrušev, who contributed 14 points and eight rebounds.

On that same night, Rolands Šmits also enjoyed a productive outing. Šmits helped Stambulas “Anadolu Efes” secure an 85:78 victory over Telavivas “Maccabi,” further cementing the influence of Latvian talent across the league’s top rosters.

Recent Success Against Bayern Munich

The momentum for BC Dubai continued into March, highlighted by a significant road victory over Minhenes “Bayern” on March 19. Dubai secured an 87:74 win, a result that bolstered their standing in the league.

Bertāns played a specialized role in this contest, appearing for 16 minutes and 49 seconds. He scored all nine of his points in the first half, converting two of five three-point attempts and going a perfect three-for-three from the free-throw line. His overall efficiency rating for the game stood at 10, contributing two rebounds and one steal.

The victory was driven by a balanced attack. Dwayne Bacon led the scoring with 21 points and six assists, while Mfiondu Kabengele added 16 points. Janan Musa contributed 11 points and six rebounds, and McKinley Wright managed nine assists. For Bayern, Oskars da Silva was a bright spot, scoring 12 points in the loss.

Player Profile: Dāvis Bertāns

Now 33 years old, Bertāns brings a wealth of international and NBA experience to BC Dubai. Standing 208 cm and weighing 102 kg, he operates as both a small forward and power forward. His career has spanned some of the most prestigious leagues in the world, including a lengthy tenure in the NBA.

Before joining BC Dubai in 2024, Bertāns played for several NBA franchises, including the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and most recently, the Charlotte Hornets. His European pedigree is equally impressive, with previous stints at Belgradas “Partizan,” where he won three Serbian championships (2012–2014), and Vitorijas “Saski Baskonia” in the Spanish ACB league.

Currently wearing number 8 for Dubai, Bertāns remains a primary tactical asset due to his ability to stretch the floor, a skill that has made him a perennial threat in the EuroLeague.

Current Standings and Outlook

The victory over Bayern Munich has placed BC Dubai in a competitive position as they fight for a spot among the league’s elite. With 17 wins, Dubai currently holds the 11th position in the standings, while Bayern sits in 14th place with 13 wins.

The stakes remain high as the season progresses, with Dubai aiming to break into the top ten of the EuroLeague rankings.

Next Checkpoint: BC Dubai is scheduled to face Atēnu “Panathinaikos” on March 24 at 20:30 local time.

Do you think Bertāns’ NBA experience is the key to Dubai’s rise in the EuroLeague? Share your thoughts in the comments below.