Jana Lichnerova

The writing appears to have been on the wall for the Ukraine since opening day when Hungary's Eva Seres buried a three-pointer with time running out to condemn them to a one-point defeat.

Looking to bounce back, they had to face an angry Russia team, the favourites for the title who had been upset in their first game by Slovakia and that ended in another loss.

The Slovakians piled on the agony for the Ukraine on Sunday, storming out to a 29-10 first-quarter lead and then cruising to victory.

Jana Lichnerova had a game-high 17 points, and she was ably supported by Alena Kovacova (16) and Agnesa Nagyova (14).

The Slovaks now have two victories in three games and are looking good bets to reach the last eight.

Slovakia, after Monday's rest day, take on Belgium while the Ukraine face unbeaten Spain.