By Rafal Juc
Although during NIJT tournament in Kaunas (Lithuania) Oskars Reinfelds ('94) due to back injury was able to play in just one full game, he undeniably confirmed that is top player of 1994 European generation. What he told to Eurohopes? 18-years old Latvian finished Nike International Junior Tournament averaging 8.5 points, 2 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.5 steals (even 4.5 turnovers) in 23 minutes per game, but injured in the second day of tournament, so his statistics can be misleading.
Being not too muscular, Reinfelds does not have any problems playing against higher or stronger opponents, because is really tough, well-build one. In addition shows good explosiveness, motor and stamina. However, not more than average athlete. Even if was struggling from distance in Kaunas (just 1/6 3FG), showed really well technique and was able to mechanically shoot beyond the arc. His hand and legs during release cooperate well, what makes his shoot really fast. It causes that Reinfelds is dangerous for all the time on offensive half.
Offensively can play on both point guard and shooting guard positions. Thanks to his natural flow and feel to the game is capable of controlling tempo and rhythm of action with ball in hands very well. Reinfelds scored most of his points after penetrations. His first step is really fast, can get beat defender off the dribble, however, his biggest advantage is ability to finish really strong over opponent on a contact. Worth to admit that Reinfelds moves also really well without ball and knows how to create space using screens or mistakes in defense. Is really efficient in catch and shoot situation as well off the dribble in perimeter and beyond the arc. Not outstanding defender, but thanks to aggressiveness and good feel to the game can create turnovers, especially in pressing.
Reinfelds seems to be a good candidate for leader, playing really well on ball, even being under the pressure is really efficient. Should improve his timing and limit tendency of driving into traffic under the basket, what effects with many turnovers (8 in 35 minutes against Elan Chalon). All in all, Latvian seems to be a perfect fit to a mid-major or even high-major teams in NCAA, but still is considering plans for his future having many pro offers on his table.
-Why did you decide two years ago to move to Canarias Basketball Academy?
All people closest to me told me that Canarias Basketball Academy is the best place to became better as a basketball player. I could have gone somewhere to play pro, but instead of this I have realized that I have so much to work on my game. In Canarias I improved my shots, drives, everything, so I’m convinced that it was the best decision I was able to do that time.
-Not everyone European prospect has got an occasion to work with experienced coach from USA, so how does look like your cooperation with coach Rob Orellana?
To be honest, coach Orellana is like my father. We have got really good relationship, but if I’m slack on the training, he is of course gonna screaming on me just like everybody else. But our cooperation is definitely really good and I’m very happy about that.
-What is your goal for a next season? Word on street is that you will move to NCAA.
I mean I don’t know yet. That’s a big decision - either to stay in Europe as a pro or going to NCAA. Right now I’m thinking about both options. I’m just gonna see what will be the best for me.
-Are you going to play this summer at European Championship U18?
Yes, most like 95% I’m gonna play with my national team during U18 European Championship. We will see.
Twitter of the author: @rafjuc
Photo: FIBA Europe / Wojtek Figurski
