Israeli coach Moshe Waynkratz has a much better grasp of his side’s potential for the European Championships after watching them compete in Russia.

The Israeli women have made it to the championships only twice in their history, one of them as hosts 12 years ago in Tel Aviv when they finished seventh.

They narrowly qualified for this year’s tournament ahead of Romania in Group A, and not many of the experts are giving Waynkratz’s women much of a chance when the tournament tips off on September 19.

Israel couldn’t have a tougher opener as they face defending champions France in Pyrgos.

Waynkratz’s side took on a local Russian club, Nedazada and won 65-63, with Sarit Arbel’s basket at the buzzer sealing the victory.

Ornit Swarrtz and Tamar Maoz each scored 15 points to lead the Israelis.

In their next game against a Moscow outfit they lost 78-70 with Swartz (22 points) again leading the scoring. Liron Cohen performed well in that game, too, with 18 points.

Israel were then given a reality check against world giants Brazil, who hammered them 77-40.

“It was a good tournament for us, to see the real level we expect in Greece next month,” Waynkratz said. “We played against tall, strong teams - the same kind we will face. It was a good experience.”

The Russian national team were supposed to play the Israelis, too, but cancelled the game.