Five British players ended the game in double figures, with Nick George and Rob Archibald both leading the way on 17 and Andrew Betts adding 16. Kieron Achara and Flinder Boyd were both rested.

Chris Finch's side exploded out of the blocks with a dominant opening quarter, which they won 28-21; George sunk a three in the final second to maintain daylight with the Latvians.

Britain extended their lead further when they entered the locker room 52-40 better off. However Latvia bounced back and with 2.57minutes left of the third period they took their first lead of the game at 57-56.

It was a one-point game in the final minute of play at 82-81 until Mike Lenzly converted both of his freethrows with 11 seconds on the clock. But Latvia's Kristaps Valters hit only his second three of the game to ensure an 86-84 victory.

Latvia are in Group B of the European Championships, alongside Germany, defending champions Russia and either Belgium or France who will play each other in the additional qualifying round for the final spot.

Next up for Finch's team is Macedonia, on Friday 28 August.