Lithuania men's national basketball team

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Lithuania Coat of arms of Lithuania Lietuva
Lithuanian Basketball Federation logo.png
FIBA ranking 3 Increase 1
Joined FIBA 1936
FIBA zone FIBA Europe
National federation Lithuanian Basketball Federation
Coach Jonas Kazlauskas
Nickname(s) Basketball: The Second Religion, Game of the Nation
Olympic Games
Appearances 7
Medals Bronze medal.svg Bronze: 1992, 1996, 2000
FIBA World Cup
Appearances 4
Medals Bronze medal with cup.svg Bronze: 2010
FIBA EuroBasket
Appearances 13
Medals Gold medal europe.svg Gold: 1937, 1939, 2003
Silver medal europe.svg Silver: 1995, 2013, 2015
Bronze medal europe.svg Bronze: 2007
Uniforms
Kit body lithuania15light.png
Light jersey
Kit shorts lithuania15light.png
Team colours
Light
Kit body lithuania15dark.png
Dark jersey
Kit shorts lithuania15dark.png
Team colours
Dark
First international
Latvia Latvia 41–20 Lithuania Lithuania
(Riga, Latvia; 13 December 1925)[1]
Biggest win
Lithuania Lithuania 112–9 Finland Finland
(Kaunas, Lithuania; 27 May 1939)[2]
Biggest defeat
United States United States 126–75 Lithuania Lithuania
(Barcelona, Spain; 6 August 1992)

The Lithuania men's national basketball team (Lithuanian: Lietuvos nacionalinė vyrų krepšinio rinktinė) is the representative for Lithuania in FIBA's competitions of basketball. Despite Lithuania's small size, with a population of just almost 2.9 million, the country's devotion to basketball made them a traditional force of the sport in Europe.[3]

The Lithuanian team won the last EuroBasket tournaments prior to World War II, in 1937 and 1939. The 1939 team was led by Frank Lubin, who helped popularize basketball in the country and was called the "Grandfather of Lithuanian Basketball". Following the country's annexation by the Soviet Union during the war, Lithuanian players frequently formed the core of the Soviet national team. The most prevalent example was the 1988 Olympic basketball gold medal-winning team which got most of its scoring from four Lithuanians: Valdemaras Chomičius, Rimas Kurtinaitis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis and Arvydas Sabonis.

After the restoration of Lithuanian independence in 1990, the national team was resurrected. Lithuania won bronze medals in the first three Olympics to include NBA players – 1992, 1996, and 2000 - in addition to finishing fourth in 2004 and 2008, and in eighth place at the London 2012 Olympics. The Lithuanian team won the FIBA EuroBasket for the third time in 2003, and also a bronze medal in the 2010 FIBA World Championship.

Contents

History[edit]

Interwar period (1920–1940)[edit]

First Lietuvos Fizinio Lavinimo Sąjunga (LFLS) basketball team in 1923. One of the very first male basketball players in Lithuania.

Basketball history in Lithuania begins in the 1920s, however until the late 1930s basketball in Lithuania was not popular because it was considered a woman's sport.[4][5] First basketball reverberations reached Lithuania when the game was already 30 years old. It wasn‘t Naismith‘s basketball, but the German (Dutch) variant. The baskets were fastened to poles without boards, the game was played on a huge court. One of the Lithuanian sport pioneers, Steponas Garbačiauskas, wrote: "In 1919 Lithuanian women athletes started organizing, but they showed up publicly only in 1920-1921 and started playing basketball. They played not by the USA rules, but by the German ones (with a smaller ball, without boards)".[6]

In 1922 Karolis Dineika released a book Krepšiasvydis vyrams (English: Basketball for men), in 1926 pilot Steponas Darius, who would later be known for his transatlantic flight, published the first basketball rules in Lithuania.[7][8]

Despite the fact that women started playing basketball in Lithuania, the first official game was played by men. It took place on April 23, 1922 when Lietuvos Fizinio Lavinimo Sąjunga (English: Lithuanian Physical Education Union) played a game against Kaunas team, winning 8–6. That day is regarded as the beginning of basketball in Lithuania. The press at the time described the match by writing: "The game was very interesting and left positive impression on the spectators. The observers were fascinated by the game so much that they felt living in a quite cultured country by watching our quick, joyful players. <...> The audience heartily rejoiced at the gameplay of the excellent basketball players and applauded after shots and passes by Steponas Darius and Viktoras Dineika. <...> Krepšiasvydis game, organized for the first time in Lithuania, gave beautiful hopes that in the future this game could lead our sportsmen to greater achievements".[9]

First men's basketball tournament in Lithuania was organized in 1924. The competition had only three teams: LFLS I, LFLS II and Lietuvos Dviračių Sąjunga (English: Lithuanian Cycles Union). LFLS I became the first Lithuanian basketball champions, easily defeating their opponents: LFLS II with the result 20–7 and LDS with 35–2. In a contemporary interview, Steponas Darius said: "In 1924 basketbolas already feels a more competent citizen among the other sports. In addition to friendly games, official basketbolas championships for men, women and students are taking place". In the same year, the first courses for basketball referees were held. First refereeing category was achieved by four referees, including Elena Garbačiauskienė and Steponas Darius.[10]

The 1926–1933 saw the popularity of basketball in Lithuania, supported mainly by enthusiasts, decreasing. The number of games played decreased, and between 1929 and 1932 the championship did not even take place. Basketball was played only during the summer period because there was no suitable indoor arena. The game was mostly played by representatives of other sports, who allocated little time to it. Basketball was overshadowed by football.[11]

October 10, 1934 is a memorable day for the Lithuanian basketball. On that day, Physical Culture Palace was opened. The building had a spacious hall with 200 seats, designed and built for tennis. To increase grip for tennis players, the hall had expensive cork floor installed, which cost over 30,000 LTL (over $5,000). On November 16, 1934 the first basketball game was played in the hall. Later, the hall would became the main center for basketball events.[12]

Lithuania national basketball team players and staff members in 1937.

In 1935 Lithuanian American basketball coaches (B. Budrikas, Juozas Knašas, Feliksas Kriaučiūnas and Konstantinas Savickas) arrived in Kaunas as participants of World Lithuanian Congress. Feliksas Kriaučiūnas and Konstantinas Savickas stayed in Lithuania and started teaching basketball secrets to Lithuanians.[13] One year later, basketball became an Olympic sport at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. One of the gold medallists, Frank Lubin, was of Lithuanian heritage, and was invited to visit the Baltic nation by an Lithuanian official in attendance. Going by the Lithuanian name Pranas Lubinas, he spent five months there and served as the country's first knowledgeable coach, helping spread various basketball techniques.[14][15] That same year, Lithuania applied to become a member of FIBA and take part in international basketball competitions.[16] In 1937 Lithuania played a game against Latvia (one of the strongest basketball teams at the time), losing the game 29–41. However, the performance represented a substantial improvement for Lithuanians, who had lost to Latvians 10–123 in a previous game.[13][17] Motivated by this result, Lithuania decided to participate in the EuroBasket 1937 held in Riga, Latvia. Latvia Basketball Association had invited Lithuania to the competition in January, 1937.[18]

"Physical Culture Palace director Mr. Augustauskas asked me: Could you win the European championship? I replied: Why not? Lithuanians already made significant progress and with one or two athletes from Chicago we could easily win that championship."

Konstantinas Savickas, describing his first efforts to improve basketball in Lithuania.[19]
Lithuanians after defeating Italy in 1937.
Latvian president Kārlis Ulmanis gives the Lithuanians the EuroBasket 1937 trophy.
Feliksas Kriaučiūnas, one of the most notable basketball personalities in interwar Lithuania.

The preparations for the EuroBasket 1937 started slowly. National team players trained only 4 hours a week. At first, it was decided that the national team at the tournament would not include any Lithuanian Americans; however the decision was reversed with only one month remaining. A Latvian newspaper had printed an extensive article about the second European championship, reviewing each team's capabilities and prospects. According to a Lithuanian sport historian, Jonas Narbutas: "In the top group, of course, was Latvia, then Estonia, then Poland and Italy. These were the strongest teams. In the second group the strongest was France, then Czechoslovakia, Romania and Bulgaria. The were the mid-capability teams. In the weakest group the first was Turkey, then Egypt and only then, the last on the list, was Lithuania. <...> When Leonas Baltrūnas, a member of the Lithuania national team, received this weekly newspaper and read the article, he was shocked... He made an accurate translation to the Lithuanian language and put it on my desk. After consideration, we got the idea to go to the director of the Physical Culture Palace, Vytautas Augustauskas, show him the newspaper with the translation, <...> and ask him to invite a few of the best Lithuanian Americans". At the time, the government and the sports chiefs were against inviting Americans of Lithuanian descent to the European championship. Jonas Narbutas: "There was also a question who would go. The director‘s attitude towards Lithuanian Americans was well known to me. I had already been warned that I would be fired if I interfered in affairs that were not my own. <...> The time was valuable. I decided to go. Augustauskas peeked at the newspaper and started reading the translation. When he had finished, without looking at me, he hit the desk with his fist, even the inkpot jumped. Looking in my eyes he understood that I had more to say. He asked: "Will two players be enough?", I replied with joy: "We only need a center and one good guard". A telegram was sent to the USA immediately, inviting two of the best Lithuanian basketball players. With only a month left, Pranas Talzūnas and Feliksas Kriaučiūnas arrived. The preparation of the team was entrusted to F. Kriaučiūnas. It was ordered to keep it a secret that the national team was strengthened with two Lithuanian Americans. The training sessions before the trip to Riga were held behind closed doors and the trainings were prolonged. All the games were cancelled two weeks before the start. The national team was being prepared not only technically, but also physically.[20] The efforts were successful - the Lithuanians became the champions of Europe for the first time, defeating all their opponents. Following the final victory over Italy, the famous Lithuanian tenor Kipras Petrauskas even interrupted his performance at the State Theatre to joyfully announce the triumph of the national basketball team. The crowd then rose to their feet and together sang the Lithuanian anthem.[21] Describing the victory of 1937, the team's coach Feliksas Kriaučiūnas said: "I will never forget how we won in Riga and how people greeted us in the (train) station. People, gathered in every single station, greeted us like we, here in America, greet the president. Thousands of people congregated in stations".[22] Pranas Talzūnas, the tournament's MVP, later in his letter to Konstantinas Savickas wrote: "Italians, Latvians, Estonians, French and Polish were considered strong teams. They awarded us the seventh place. Nobody thought that Feliksas and I were good players. Everyone thought that a good player must be tall, raising his hand and dunking into the basket. They had no idea and couldn't imagine what a good player is".[23]

Basketball regained its ground immediately, its popularity rising, especially among students. Gymnasium teams from almost all counties competed in student games. The teams were assembled in firms. Algirdas Žukauskas, a witness of these times, wrote: "One day in 1937 Lithuania became a basketball country. <...> Victory in Riga raised remarkable enthusiasm. <...> The youth rushed to play basketball, basketball courts appeared everywhere. Nearby a gymnasium there was a barn. A few months later it would became an unheated basketball hall where we would train even in winter". Another witness, Stepas Butautas, said: "In every yard hoops are being made from barrels. Children, teenagers are throwing balls into them, others - even a sock crammed with clouts. Our Veršvai Primary School teacher K. Požemecka built two poles, made hoops from a willow and said: "We will play basketball". The first amazing basketball tide flooded Lithuania".[24]

Lithuania national team during EuroBasket 1939. Pranas Lubinas is holding the Lithuanian tricolor.

Lithuania was granted the right to organize the EuroBasket 1939. In addition, the Kaunas Sports Hall was built. It was the first basketball arena in Europe. In the competition, the team roster mostly consisted of Lithuanian Americans. Five players had been born in the United States of America: Juozas Jurgėla (Chicago), Vytautas Budriūnas (Waukegan), Feliksas Kriaučiūnas (Chicago), Mykolas Ruzgys and Pranas Lubinas (Glendale). As a result, there were several protests from other nations.[25] Pranas Lubinas lead Lithuania to the second title that year. He even made the buzzer-beater in the crucial game versus Latvia, which would later allow Lithuanians to win the competition. The ball bounced on the rim and went in as the time ran out, giving Lithuanians 37–36 victory over Latvia.[26] One champions of 1939, Mykolas Ruzgys, would in a later interview described his memories of basketball in Lithuania by saying: "They (Lithuanians) have only one thing that I value more than in America. They love the game. In Lithuania we played, because we wanted to play basketball. Now they look at the height. If you are 2 meters and taller, they say that you will be a good basketball player".[22] Vladas Garastas, the first Lithuania national team coach after regaining its independence in 1990, described these times by saying: "I remember as kids we started using a barrel to make a hoop. We didn't have a ball, we stuffed in grass or whatever we could find".[27]

"I think a lot about it, often I remember the Physical Culture Palace and I dream that I could be there for an hour. At least one hour in the Physical Culture Palace..."

Feliksas Kriaučiūnas, describing his longing of the basketball times in Lithuania.[28]

Team dissolution during World War II[edit]

After two consecutive EuroBasket titles, Pranas Lubinas, the former team captain of the USA in 1936 Summer Olympics, dreamed of leading Lithuania at the 1940 Summer Olympics. Sadly, it remained only a dream as the World War II broke out one year before and the Olympics were cancelled.[26] With Nazi Germany invading Europe and the Soviet Union occupying the Baltic states in 1940, the Lithuanian basketball players and basketball-supporting president Antanas Smetona left for safer countries such as the United States and Australia. Only a few of them had a chance to return to Lithuania in 1989-1990.[29] As a consequence, none of the European champions played for the Soviet Union after the war ended. The EuroBasket 1941 was due to take place in Lithuania as well, but was cancelled due to the war.[30] Instead, Lithuania only hosted a Baltic states tournament organized at Kaunas Sports Hall on April 1941, beating Latvia 38–33 in front of 6000 spectators.[16] Two months later, mass Soviet deportations from Lithuania began. Juozas Butrimas, Siberia deportations survivor, once said: "Our whole sports club was falsely accused of participating in an anti-Soviet Lithuanian resistance organization. In Siberia, we built a regulation basketball court. Basketball allowed us to have dignity, to retain our sense of humanity. How did I survived? Basketball gave a lot. They didn't bury me there".[31]

During the rest of the war, with the Germans occupying Lithuania in November 1941 and the Soviets taking it back three years later, all the basketballers who did not escape the country went through difficult times. Vincas Sercevičius, often nicknamed as the second Lubinas, had to run away from German raids in 1943. Two years later, Sercevičius was a member of the Žalgiris Kaunas who refused to purposefully lose to CSKA Moscow, leading him and other teammates, along with coach Stasys Šačkus, to end up shipped to the Vorkuta mines by the Soviets.[32][33]

Soviet period (1947–1990)[edit]

"Actually, Russia took over the Lithuanians technique and tactics. The last time I saw them was when I was in Prague with the French team. I wished to cry due to joy because the squad had four Lithuanians, one of them was team's captain. I spoke with Lithuanians several times, but I couldn't more."

Mykolas Ruzgys, describing the Soviet squad in a 1968 interview.[34]
Kaunas Sports Hall, the place where the Lithuanian basketball flourished under the Soviet rule.

The first Soviet Union national basketball team was formed in 1947 to participate in EuroBasket 1947, immediately winning gold medals. The team had four Lithuanians: Stepas Butautas, Justinas Lagunavičius, Kazimieras Petkevičius and Vytautas Kulakauskas.[35]

Modestas Paulauskas, one of the all-time biggest Soviet Union basketball stars.

Given the Soviet Union was absent from the 1948 Summer Olympics, Lithuanian basketballers could only fulfill their dreams of playing on the Olympic stage at the 1952 Olympic Games, where they qualified by winning EuroBasket 1949. The Soviets got a silver medal, losing only two games against the United States, who had a height advantage - the shortest of their players was still taller than the highest Soviet - and would soon become the USSR's biggest rival.[36][37] The team was led by Georgian player Otar Korkia (17.3 points per game), along with Lithuanians Stepas Butautas (10.6 points) and Kazimieras Petkevičius (8.1 points). Two other Lithuanians, Justinas Lagunavičius and Stanislovas Stonkus, were also in the team.[38] The four are regarded as the first Lithuania-born Olympic basketball players.[39] Years later, Modestas Paulauskas served as the Soviet Union captain starting in 1969, and would lead the USSR to an historic upset of the United States at the 1972 Olympic Games, making them the first Olympic champions other than the Americans.[40][41]

Arvydas Sabonis (#11) playing the semifinal against the United States in 1988.

Despite not being able to challenge the Soviet Union on basketball court, Lithuanians still did that in another way. Basketball club Žalgiris Kaunas, established in 1944 (just a few years after the country's occupation) with a name commemorating the Battle of Grunwald, became one of the main non-violent resistance ways. Games between Žalgiris and CSKA Moscow, a military basketball team mostly formed from best Soviet Union basketball players, were de facto games between Lithuania and the Soviet Union, and led to mass rallies of sorts once Lithuanians went to receive Žalgiris' players at airports after victories. The teams from Baltic states even tried to help each other during the Soviet tournaments, most notably in 1973. During the last round, the already qualified Žalgiris Kaunas deliberately lost to Kalev Tallinn, as admitted by Paulauskas: "We gave victory to Tallinn Kalev. That game meant nothing for us, while for Estonians it was crucial in order to avoid the fight for the survival in the highest league".[42]

"When after the war the Russian squad almost defeated USA, some were congratulating me, others were reproachful as they never heard that the Russians were playing basketball. After the war they were using these Lithuanians who I once trained. They took over many techniques and tactics knowledges. I was always observing from far when basketball traditions blossomed in Lithuania and gave such international stars like Arvydas Sabonis. I was proud that the Lithuanians shined more than the others in Seoul. It was mine team. Lithuanian team defeated the Americans, I was telling to the media..."

Pranas Lubinas, sharing his memories related to basketball in Lithuania, in a 1989 interview.[43]

Lithuania's battles for freedom on basketball court continued. The 1981 students sport games in Vilnius had the locals attending in the Lithuanian green and yellow colors to see the national youth team led by Arvydas Sabonis and Šarūnas Marčiulionis defeat the Moscow squad.[42] Shortly before the Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania, Žalgiris defeated CSKA three times in a row for the USSR Premier Basketball League finals (1985-1987). That time Žalgiris player Sergėjus Jovaiša described the 1987's victory by typing: "The festive decorated military orchestra, which loudly rehearsed the newly created song was left without job. Moscow basketball players wives were leaving the palace by hiding undeliverable flowers behind their backs...".[42]

These were joyful moments, however during every of them, the militia and the security officers were made "on their feet", yet even they were powerless to put down the global euphoria. One of the best examples of this is the 1986's Žalgiris victory in the Intercontinental Cup, where they reached a sweet revenge against Zagreb Cibona in the semi-finals and later became the champions. Huge crowd attended the meeting ceremony of the team. Furthermore, the officers had no pretext to take any actions. It was a beautiful and theoretically non-political victory, however it was the ice-breaker and it became obvious that it gets more and more difficult to control the multitudinous mobs. Žalgiris captain Valdemaras Chomičius later in his book described the historical victory in Argentina by writing: "We were playing like in the native Kaunas Sports Hall. The whole audience supported us. It was our revenge - a true Lithuanian revenge. After the final siren many Cibona players were crying like children. When we, tired after the journey, spaced-out by the victory, landed in Aleksotas Air Port, the view impressed us. We saw a huge people's sea. It seemed that the whole Kaunas gathered that early morning. It was around 4:00. We, of course, expected that people will come, but that there will be so many of them... It is worth to play basketball for such moments".[42]

Rimas Kurtinaitis, one of the 1988's team leaders.

The Soviet Union squad became Olympic champions in the 1988 Summer Olympics for the second and the last time, defeating United States 82–76 in the semi-finals and Yugoslavia 76–63 in the finals. The team mostly was led by four Lithuanians: Šarūnas Marčiulionis (18.1 points, 2.3 assists per game), Rimas Kurtinaitis (13.4 points, 3 rebounds), Arvydas Sabonis (13.3 points, 11.1 rebounds) and team captain Valdemaras Chomičius (7.4 points, 1.5 rebounds).[44] Vytautas Landsbergis, the first head of state of Lithuania after its independence declaration from the Soviet Union, once said: "The majority of the team was made up of Lithuanians. So really Lithuania won that gold medal for the Soviet Union. But its name wasn't there. And that was another injustice that we had to correct".[45]

Once Lithuania became the first Union Republic to declare independence on March 11, 1990, the Soviet Union national team did not even qualify for the EuroBasket 1991.[46] During the 43 years where the Soviets had Lithuanian players, they managed to get with both male and female squads 17 Olympic medals (8 gold, 6 silver and 3 bronze), 17 World championship medals (11 gold, 5 silver and one bronze), 51 EuroBasket medals (36 gold, 4 silver and 11 bronze).[47] The occupation left many painful marks in Lithuania and Lithuanians' memory. Games between Žalgiris and CSKA, as well as games between Lithuania and Russian national teams, still have extra spice in them nowadays. Singing of the Lithuanian anthem before the professional club's games in Lithuania is still a rare tradition, rarely found outside the National Basketball Association in Europe.

After the restoration of independence (from 1990)[edit]

"I believe that new Sabonis and Marčiulions will grow up and will create a new superb team again."

Konstantinas Savickas, first Lithuania national team coach, sharing his thoughts in 1991.[48]

After Lithuania's independence was restored, the country wanted to stand on its own in the basketball community again, complete with the standout players from the 1988 Soviet squad - Sabonis, Marčiulions, Chomičius and Kurtinaitis - expressing a desire to represent Lithuania.[49] In 1990, an independent Lithuanian Basketball Federation (LKF) was restored with new statutes. In 1991, the International Olympic Committee welcomed Lithuania back to its ranks in September, and in December, LKF president Stanislovas Stonkus attended the FIBA congress in Springfield, Massachusetts, and requested the right to be a full member of FIBA once again. FIBA president George E. Killian granted Stonkus' request and invited Lithuania to participate in all of the FIBA organized events.[49][50]

Šarūnas Marčiulionis, the first Lithuanian to play in the United States, was instrumental in getting funds for the national team's restoration.

However, Lithuania's economic transition left the country in a difficult financial situation, and LKF could hardly count on state funding. As a result, the team had to search for the financial supporters by themselves in order to play internationally. Šarūnas Marčiulionis had experience and contacts in the United States for being the first USSR player in the NBA, playing for the Golden State Warriors. Consequently, he, along with Donnie Nelson (son of Marčiulionis' then-coach Don Nelson), searched for financial supporters that could finance Lithuania's participation in the international games and the 1992 Summer Olympics. George Shirk wrote a story about this on the San Francisco Chronicle, and once American rock band Grateful Dead read the newspaper, they decided to help the team. Drummer Mickey Hart added that the story resonated with the bandmembers for being a "a struggle for life, liberty and freedom." The bandmembers donated $5,000 to Marčiulionis, and helped launch a tie-dyed jerseys trade that would feature Lithuania's national colors and the band's trademark skeletons.[51][52] Designer and licensor Greg Speirs drew a jersey featuring a skullman dunking a flaming basketball, whose profits would be passed onto the Lithuania national basketball team and a fund for Lithuanian children.[53] The Lithuanians were favourable to the garish shirts because, according to Nelson, it was a great contrast to "all those years of those Soviet colors, nothing but blues and grays".[54] Arvydas Sabonis even said that "My first impression of [the jerseys] was: Wow, this really is a free Lithuania".[55] The skeleton, nicknamed "Skully", was enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame, being the only cartoon character to be enshrined in any sports Hall of Fame.[53] New versions of the Skully jerseys were featured in the following two Olympic Games.[54][56] To assume the head coach position, American Dan Peterson, then in Italy, was invited but declined.[49] BC Žalgiris manager Raimundas Sargunas became coach, but problems with the players made him demoted to assistant, a job shared with Donnie Nelson and Spanish Javier Imbroda,[57] who was invited following Sabonis' suggestion of a Liga ACB veteran.[58] The eventual choice was Vladas Garastas, another Žalgiris veteran who was assistant in the 1988 Soviet squad.[59]

1992 Summer Olympic Games (Barcelona 1992)[edit]

Preparation for Lithuania's first major international tournament since regaining independence began in May 1992, as it was the first time a squad of players mostly playing outside the country could get together and train.[57] While missing Sabonis, Marčiulionis and Artūras Karnišovas, the Lithuaniam team competed in the eight-teams Nordic Countries Championship. They took the 2nd place there, losing only to the well-known opponents Latvia 80–95 in the final. Standout players included Gintaras Krapikas (22.5 points per game) and Rimas Kurtinaitis (19 points).[60]

Dunking skullman Skully, created by New York artist Greg Speirs based on rock band Grateful Dead, became a symbol of Lithuanian basketball since its inception at the 1992 Summer Olympics.

Afterwards, the country celebrated 70 years of Lithuanian basketball, and among the events was a competition featuring two Lithuanian teams, Latvia, Belarus, Finland, and Illinois State University basketball team. The superiority of the Lithuanians, now counting with Sabonis and Marčiulionis, made them handily beat the opponents. Following it, Lithuania national team was invited to compete in the prestigious annual Acropolis Tournament hosted by Greece, along with Italy and France. Lithuanians began the competition shockingly, immediately crushing the EuroBasket 1991 silver medalists Italians 116–94 (at one point leading by 87–49). Though, then they narrowly lost to the host Greece squad 81–83 and after easily defeating the French squad 109–78, took the 2nd place. Despite not winning the cup, this was a perfect first major international challenge for the Lithuania national team, giving the solid hopes of success for the newly reborn state. Shortly before the beginning of the Olympic Games, Lithuanians also overcame the Olympics host Spain 107–97 in Ibiza.[61]

"Our main goal was to endeavor that Arvydas Sabonis will foul five times. Unfortunately, we didn't accomplished this task."

Petar Skansi, a Croatian squad coach.[62]
Rimas Kurtinaitis, one of the Lithuanian team leaders in 1992.

Lithuania was among the many European independent states that due to the dissolutions of the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia, would return into the Olympic competition for the 1992 games. For the 1992 Pre-Olympic Basketball Tournament, held in Spain from June 22 to July 5, Lithuania was joined by the debuting Croatia, Slovenia, Latvia, and Estonia, along with the non-Baltic Soviet republics in an Commonwealth of Independent States. With a trip funded by the Spanish city of Melilla, Lithuania managed to get one of the 4 qualifying spots disputed by 25 participants, winning all their 11 games in the tournament.[59][62][63]

The Olympic tournament for the Lithuania national team began against China, with an overwhelming 112–75 win that featured 31 points by Rimas Kurtinaitis (5 of 6 three-pointers). Afterwards a tough match with FIBA Americas silver medalist Venezuela had the lead frequently changing, with Lithuania depending on Marčiulionis (27 points) and Sabonis (24) to win by 87–79. The third game was easier, with the Lithuanians beating Puerto Rico 104–91, with 80 points scored by the "golden trio" Sabonis, Marčiulionis, and Kurtinaitis. Then awaited the hardest adversary in the group stage, the former USSR states in an Unified Team. Lithuania managed to beat the team during the qualifying tournament, and during the Olympics even got a 59–57 lead at the second quarter. Then the Unified Team managed to overcome its defector state and win 92-80, despite the 42-points combined efforts of Sabonis and Marčiulionis. In order to qualify for the quarter-finals, the Lithuania national team had to overcome the Australian squad. Lithuanians lost the first half 45–46, though later they mightily grabbed the lead till the end of the game, winning it 98–87 and qualifying in second place for the playoffs.[64]

Lithuania met the respected and powerful Brazilian squad at the quarter-finals. The coaching staff decided to use only the most reliable players, with only six Lithuanians scoring. The tense game had the Brazilians leading at half-time, and Lithuania only taking full advantage with five minutes remaining: from 87–83, the score built up to a 114–96 Lithuanian wins. Sabonis played all the 40 game minutes and scored 32 points, while Marčiulionis added 29, and Kurtinaitis 20.[65]

At the semi-final Lithuanians met the United States squad nicknamed "Dream Team". It was the first time the Americans brought a team composed of NBA players, including the widely regarded all-time greatest basketballer Michael Jordan, and the superiority of the "Dream Team"left the Lithuanians absolutely no chances for victory, with the Baltic state taking a lopsided 76–127. It is still the biggest loss the Lithuanian squad ever suffered. Afterwards, the Lithuanian team coaches decided to start resting the primary players for the bronze medals game.[66]

"I don't think that any American could ever possibly connect to the meaning for those people. The first moment the Lithuanian flag went up."

Jim Lampley, a record holder of Olympic Games covered on U.S. television.[67]

At the bronze medal game, Lithuanians faced the Unified Team for the third time that year, with each team winning once. Captain Valdemaras Chomičius felt that "We lost to them once already, we couldn't let that happen again. The final had to be ours",[68] while Šarūnas Marčiulionis added that "We didn't have any choice, we absolutely had to win at any cost".[69] Head coach Vladas Garastas briefed the team saying "Men, you're playing for the people of Lithuania. Forget about your personal ambitions. People are watching you, losing sleep over you".[70] Šarūnas Marčiulionis: "Some were listening on radios, others were watching on television. All of Lithuania was stopped. Everyone was watching that game".[71] In a close match, the Lithuanians kept the lead all times for a 82-78 victory, that felt inexpressibly remarkable for a tiny country which regained its independence just two years and was playing the remains of its former colonizer. Marčiulionis played 40 minutes during that match and scored 29 points, while Sabonis added 27. Donnie Nelson described the locker room as "like winning the NBA championship times five".[72] After the bronze medal victory, de jure Head of State Vytautas Landsbergis visited the team at the locker room, and they all sung the national anthem.[73]

During the awarding ceremony, Lithuanians decided to dress up the colorful Skeleton Jerseys in order to show their newly reborn country national colors and to show their gratitude to Greg Speirs and the Grateful Dead for their financial support.[74] Rimas Kurtinaitis characterized the emotional awarding ceremony by telling: "Well, we cried. It was really from joy. Words cannot even express feelings like that. You need to be there",[75] Valdemaras Chomičius: "It was such an emotion that it's hard to explain. You have to experience it".[76] Arvydas Sabonis by comparing his 1988's Olympic gold medal and the 1992's Olympic bronze medal said: "The medal in Seoul was gold, but this bronze is our soul".[77] Totally, Lithuanians averaged 94 points per game in the tournament, being outclassed only by the USA (117 points per game).[78] The team was the subject of a 2012 documentary by Marius Markevičius, The Other Dream Team.[79]

EuroBasket 1995[edit]

EuroBasket 1995 was the last international tournament for Olympic champion Valdemaras Chomičius.
Main article: EuroBasket 1995

During the qualifiers for EuroBasket 1993, Lithuanian basketball had its biggest disappointment. Missing Arvydas Sabonis but still with most of the bronze medal squad, Lithuania played in a three team group in Wrocław, and beat hosts Poland but lost to Belarus, being eliminated by the fellow former United Republic. It remains Lithuania's only absence following independence.[80] However, this fiasco encouraged the creation of the first professional basketball league in Lithuania.

In preparation for the EuroBasket 1995 in Greece, the Lithuanian national team played in several international competitions, winning a four-team tournament in Málaga. Lithuanians won the send off game against the Polish squad in Vilnius, overcoming the visitors 105–84.

In its return to the European championship following years under Soviet occupation, Lithuania began the tournament powerfully, with five wins in the group stage and a defeat to Yugoslavia. They overcame the quarter-finals stage successfully as well, defeating 1994 World Championship silver medalists Russia 82–71, leading the game from start to finish. With a guaranteed spot in the tournament's top four, Lithuania was granted the right to participate in the 1996 Summer Olympics, held in Atlanta. The semi-final hurdle was overcome as well with a 90-80 defeat of the powerful Croatian national team, led by the two mighty centers: Stojko Vranković and Dino Rađa. The Lithuanian national team advanced into its final after 56 years, demonstrating the Lithuanian basketball's vitality and strength, in spite of all the previous difficulties.[81]

O.A.K.A. Indoor Hall, where the EuroBasket final took place.

"The ending of the game left the woeful impression. It was obvious that the judging does not fit the game-play level. FIBA got warning: the refereeing must improve or the basketball will face degradation."

— C. Jimenez, B. Jimenez[82][83]

The final was a rematch with Yugoslavia. Lithuanian squad won the close first half 49–48. In a tense finale, Arvydas Sabonis fouled out with only five minutes remaining. Lithuanians were behind 76–83, later closing to 83–84. With Yugoslavia leading 87-83, Saulius Štombergas made a shot that was ruled out as the referee George Toliver called an offensive foul. Lithuanians protested the decision and received three technical fouls (first Sabonis, then Marčiulionis and then the whole team). Aleksandar Đorđević made all three free-throws. After this episode, Lithuanians left the court and returned to it only when persuaded by the Serbs. Lithuanians eventually lost the game 90–96.[84] The controversy did not end with the game's final whistle: following the game the Greek fans shouted "Lithuania is the champion", while the third-placed Croatians left the award ceremony without waiting for the Yugoslavian team to receive their gold medals.[85]

1996 Summer Olympic Games (Atlanta 1996)[edit]

In preparation for another Olympic tournament, Lithuania played five games in Australia against the "Australian Boomers", with a team composed mostly of young players as veterans Sabonis, Marčiulionis, and Karnišovas were unable to participate. Lithuania lost the entire series, but the experience against Australia would be useful in the future. Once they returned to Europe, the Lithuanians played a few games in Spain, losing twice to strong and spirited Croatian national team and beating twice Africa champions Angola. Once Sabonis returned for a friendly with Yugoslavia in Germany, he scored 32 points in Lithuania's win by 86–70.[86]

The Lithuanian basketball started well its second Olympic Games, beating 1992 Olympic vice-champions Croatia - led by Toni Kukoč, Stojko Vranković, and Dino Rađa - 83-81 in a tough match with two overtimes.[87] Exhausted and facing an Argentinian team focused on adversary slowdown, Lithuania lost its second game 61–65.[88] Facing the hosting United States supported by 31,000 spectators, Lithuania suffered the absence of an injured Marciulionis and lesser contributions by Sabonis and Kurtinaitis, and lost 82–104.[89] However, wins in the final games against Angola (85–49) and China (116–55) qualified Lithuania at second place.

In 1996 Lithuanians were awarded their second consecutive Olympic bronze medals at Georgia Dome.

The Olympic quarter-final game had Lithuania crushing its third straight adversary against Greece, 99–66.[90] The Olympic semi-final match awaited with powerhouse Yugoslavia, undefeated that far and inspiring the Lithuanians to avenge the 1995 EuroBasket final. They began the game with the lead of 18–9, though Yugoslavians won the quarter 35–31. With the five minutes remaining, Lithuanians had the lead of 54–51, then the game tied (58–58), however during the last three match minutes Lithuanians scored none, losing the game 58–66. Another chance of an Olympic final lost.[91]

Only the game for the second consecutive bronze remained for the Lithuanian squad, against the Australians who sought their first Olympic medal. Lithuanians were exhausted after the tedious semi-final, and the game remained tight, with the lead never getting over 8 points and the score at 73-72 with one minute remaining. Still, a three-point shot by Arvydas Sabonis with 30 seconds remaining helped Lithuania retain advantage, eventually triumphing 84–74. Sabonis was the driving force of the bronze medal game, neutralizing defender Mark Bradtke on the way to 30 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 blocks.[92][93] Another Olympic medal proved Lithuania was among the top basketball countries.[94] The game marked the last time Sabonis and Marčiulionis played together, as the latter retired from the national team, and also the final match with head coach Vladas Garastas. A generational change was to come.

EuroBasket 1997[edit]

Main article: EuroBasket 1997
Jonas Kazlauskas has debuted as the head coach of the Lithuania men's national team in 1997.

While selecting its squad for the 30th European Championship in Barcelona, Lithuania retained only two primary players from the 1995 silver medalists: Artūras Karnišovas and Gintaras Einikis. The so-called "golden generation" was replaced by up-and-coming youngsters such as Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Dainius Adomaitis, Virginijus Praškevičius, and Eurelijus Žukauskas. Furthermore, Jonas Kazlauskas took over as coach. The newly put together team was constantly causing anxiety if it would keep up with previous successful performances by Lithuanians. Hopes were restored once Lithuania won a four-team tournament in Riga and beat Spain in Zaragoza.[95]

Palau Sant Jordi hosted the quarterfinals where the young Lithuanian national team failed to overcome the powerful Yugoslavians.

The EuroBasket 1997 championship had extra significance for Lithuania as it gave qualifying spots for the 1998 FIBA World Championship, held in Athens, Greece. Lithuania managed to win all games in the group stage, albeit struggling with both Israel - who lead at halftime by 30–31, but wound up losing 75–60 - and France - who managed to take the lead thrice before bowing down to Lithuania 94–88 - before an easy 76-67 defeat of Slovenia.[96] The second round lead to tougher times to the Lithuanians, winning only against Turkey while losing to Greece and Russia. The poor performance lead them to face defending champions Yugoslavia, who beat Lithuania 75-60 on the way to another title.

Due to the poor performance in the second round, Lithuanians got an solid present in the quarter-finals – the terrific Yugoslavia national team (the upcoming champions), losing to it 60–75. With only the consolation tournament left, Lithuania crushed the Polish squad 76–55, but lost to the host team Spain during the final seconds, 93–94. The final standing of sixth was enough for a World Championship spot, and helped the young Lithuanian team to lay the foundations for the future victories.

FIBA World Championship 1998[edit]

As usually, by preparing for the significant championship, the Lithuania national team played a wide variety of games and tournaments. A small championship in Nicosia, Cyprus, had Lithuania beating Nigeria before losing to the upcoming world championship host Greece 68–82. A friendly with Spain in Seville had the Lithuanians defeated, 62–66.[97] Lithuania also participated in the 1998 Goodwill Games basketball tournament in New York, along with the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, Russia and Puerto Rico. In the first round, the Lithuania national team overcame Russia and Argentina, but lost to Australia and took the second spot in the group. Consequently, they had to play the United States in the semi-final, losing it 76–89. Though, they took third place after smashing the Puerto Ricans 119–75.[98]

Peace and Friendship Stadium in Greece hosted Lithuania's first defeat of the United States during the 1998 World Championship.

Debuting in its first FIBA World Championship with a young roster, the Lithuania national team was determined to cause a good impression. The team went undefeated in the group stage, crushing South Korea 97–56 before beating a United States team lacking the NBA elite due to a lockout (84–82),[99] and a close defeat of Brazil, 66–62.

The second round was tougher for Lithuania, who lost to Australia 61–71, and despite beating Argentina 84-75, wound up losing in overtime to Spain, 80–86. A quarterfinal against Russia ensued, and while the Lithuanians had beaten them two weeks before and lead the game 38–35 at halftime, the Russians beat the unexperienced team by 82-67. Following the consolation tournament with a loss to Italy and a win over Argentina, Lithuania finished ate 7th place. The equal games and especially the victory over the USA were promising for the young Lithuanian squad.[100]

EuroBasket 1999[edit]

Arvydas Sabonis, following his national team retirement in 1999, at the age of 34, still successfully played in the NBA and Euroleague.
Main article: EuroBasket 1999

Preparation for the European championship began in a usual way: after the intense practice period Lithuania national team participated in minor competitions, winning two tournaments (in Helsinki and Kaunas), to go to the European championship with elation.[101]

Lithuania qualified for EuroBasket 1999 in France losing only two out of ten games, to Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.[102] The tournament started with a surprise, as an underdog Czech Republic beat Lithuania 78-62. Afterwards, the team found its stride and won the five following games in the first and second rounds. Reaching the knockout rounds, Lithuanians were favorites against Spain, but lost by a close 74–72 score. Two wins in the consolation tournament gave Lithuania the 5th place and a qualifying spot for the 2000 Summer Olympics.[103] EuroBasket 1999 was the last time the Lithuanian national team counted with Arvydas Sabonis and Artūras Karnišovas. Though, the solid performances by the young Saulius Štombergas and Šarūnas Jasikevičius gave a bright outset for their future.

2000 Summer Olympic Games (Sydney 2000)[edit]

Lithuania started the 2000s by beating Turkey 70–58 in Vilnius. During the preparation period Lithuanians once again visited Spain, defeating the hosts in two preparatory tournaments.

The 2000 Olympic tournament marked another time of renovation for Lithuania. The only veterans, Saulius Štombergas and Eurelijus Žukauskas, were reserves in Atlanta, while eight players were debutants: Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Mindaugas Timinskas, Andrius Giedraitis, Kęstutis Marčiulionis, Darius Maskoliūnas and Tomas Masiulis. The coaching staff was also inexperienced in the Olympics aside from assistant Valdemaras Chomičius. The management also had a very rare component – one of the assistants was Marčiulionis' old friend Donnie Nelson, one of just two foreign coaches in Lithuania national team history.[104]

Darius Songaila, one of the Lithuanian national team's leaders, during his debut years in 2000.

The first Olympic game against Italy had both teams combined scoring less than 100 points, with Lithuania losing 48–50. The young Lithuanians managed to recover, beating upcoming Olympic vice-champions France 81–63. The journalist Roma Grinbergienė described the triumph symbolically and picturesquely: "Even the Vytautas the Great would accolade!". The third game, against the third incarnation of the United States "Dream Team", had the Lithuanians giving the Americans their toughest match since NBA players joined: the final score of 85-76 had Team USA's lowest point total and advantage with professionals, and the Lithuanians even got the lead in the second quarter.[105] Onwards, Lithuania overcame China 82–66 and New Zealand 85–75, and finished third in their group.[106]

Lithuania nearly beat the "Dream Team" at Sydney Superdome.

The quarter-final opponent was one Lithuania could not defeat in previous years, Yugoslavia. The start was anxious as Lithuanians were trailing 8–2, but not for long. Yugoslavians resisted only until three minutes were left, with Lithuania already leading the game 72–58. Then nobody doubted – the quarter-final winner is Lithuania, officially winning the game 76–63. Head coach Jonas Kazlauskas: "Winning against the Yugoslavian team and its coach is every team and every coach dream. We are even more happy that we won in the quarter-final. The gulf is separating the quarter-final winner teams from the losers. We played very orderly, probably the most disciplined in this tournament. We defended well. Furthermore, Gintaras Einikis and Šarūnas Jasikevičius played amazingly". Lithuania was to compete for the another Olympic medal. Every Lithuanian fan was rejoicing in Lithuania and in Sydney.[106]

Although, the Lithuania national team coaches had no time to rejoice. The USA Dream Team was awaiting once again in the semi-final. Millions of the basketball fans were surprised there. The USA won the first quarter 48–36, but 5 minutes into the second Lithuania had tied 50–50. Then none of the teams allowed to advance any further for the each other. The main events were happening when there was only a bit less than 2 minutes remaining. When there was 1:36 left, the Lithuania was leading 80–79, then the game tied again (80–80). Ramūnas Šiškauskas got to shoot three free-throws, converting only one (81–80). Quickly Vince Carter gives back the advantage to the Americans, Kevin Garnett misses two free throws, and a successful US rebound leads Antonio McDyess to make Lithuania trail 81–84 with 25 seconds left. Šarūnas Jasikevičius makes two free-throws (83–84). Šiškauskas fouls with five seconds left. Jason Kidd converts only one free-throw (83–85). A last second long shot by Šarūnas Jasikevičius is an air ball, and the "Dream Team" managed its smallest victory ever with 85-83.[106][107][108] Lithuania lost, but the word about this game spread wide in the basketball homeland USA:

"Only a few centimeters lacked from the happening of the biggest sensation in the whole basketball history. The almighty Americans, who couldn't lose, almost lost. <...> Only the consolation game remains for Lithuanians. Though, the Lithuanians should receive a special medal for changing the world's attitude towards basketball forever."

"On that day, the whole world sympathies were given to the young, unknown to anyone Lithuanians with the unpronounceable surnames and the crazy victory desire."[109][110]

I would like to declare my great respect to Lithuanians for the today's game. They played focused and played the high level basketball. At the end, they were unlucky to make a few free-throws. <...> Lithuanians could have won today, but I am also proud of my team, which, however, was able to outweigh the match into their side, when Lithuanians had the lead.[109][111]
— Rudy Tomjanovich, the United States men's national basketball team head coach

For the third time, only a bronze medal was possible for Lithuania. Despite the psychological damage of the defeat and having to face hosts Australia in the third place match, the Lithuanians played well enough to win again. Having the experience of playing the Boomers earlier in the year, Lithuania had a strong defensive strategy, and combined with a helped by a shooting percentage of 67%, never gave up the lead on the way to a 89–71 victory, winning their third consecutive Olympic bronze medal.[111]

Over the past four years since the Atlanta Games, the times change was happening in our team, however we didn't let down the lath lower than it was raised. I am exceptionally proud of my young team and I think that it has a great future.[109][111]
— Jonas Kazlauskas,team coach in 2000

EuroBasket 2001[edit]

Main article: EuroBasket 2001
Rimantas Kaukėnas had a tough debut, during a disastrous Eurobasket 2001 campaign.

The start of a new millennium. Another European Championship, held in Turkey, awaited Lithuania in the autumn. While most of the 2000 roster was returning, many up-and-coming stars such as Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Rimantas Kaukėnas and Robertas Javtokas would make their debut. To prepare for the championship and give international experience to the young players, Lithuania participated in many prestigious competitions in Europe and South America. In Braunschweig, Germany, Lithuania achieved the third place among the four very capable teams (Yugoslavia, France and Germany). Then the Lithuanian squad played for the first time in South America, taking part in a four team tournament in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires. Lithuania won two games, including its 500th international victory against Brazil (the last 100 in just 4 years), but only finished second after losing to the hosts Argentina 56–67.[112] Lithuania also competed in the Acropolis Tournament for the second time after nine years, this time losing twice and finished fourth.

EuroBasket ended as an unexpected failure to Lithuania. The group stage started with two victories, 82-60 over Ukraine and 68-59 with Israel, before losing to France 65–76. A match against fellow Balts Latvians would give a spot in the knockout stages. And there Lithuania suffered an unexpected and overwhelming defeat to the Latvians, 64–94.[113] By falling so early, Lithuania lost all the chances of participating in the 2002 FIBA World Championship, and was threatened to miss EuroBasket 2003 as well. The disappointment made head coach Jonas Kazlauskas resign.

EuroBasket 2003[edit]

Main article: EuroBasket 2003

Due to the fiasco in EuroBasket 2001, Lithuania did not have a direct spot on EuroBasket 2003, held in Sweden, and had to take part in the qualification tournament in 2002. They easily granted a ticket into the continental championship tournament, winning all 10 qualifying games.[114]

Saulius Štombergas, the captain of the Lithuania national team in 2003.

The renewed Lithuania basketball team, full of motivation and energy, that would go to Sweden was led by Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Arvydas Macijauskas, Ramūnas Šiškauskas and Saulius Štombergas. Again preparations lead to friendlies and international tournaments, losing only to France and Spain in their respective countries.[115] EuroBasket itself opened against neighbour Latvia, responsible for the painful 2001 elimination. The game, once again, was going remarkably poorly for Lithuania. They firmly lost the first quarter (14–23), remained trailing by halftime (34–40) and only managed to tie by the third (58–58). At the fourth quarter, Latvians still had the lead of 66–58, when with 23 seconds remaining, Eurelijus Žukauskas tied the game (81–81) and forced overtime. The extra period had Lithuania guarantee a 92-91 victory with four seconds to go, after Šarūnas Jasikevičius made two free-throws. Despite the difficult start, then Lithuanians showed a much improved game in the following group stage matches, overcoming Israel (94–62) and Germany (93–71).[116]

Stockholm Globe Arena, the ball-shaped arena where one of the biggest Lithuanian basketball victories were achieved, still raises the warm emotions for the Lithuanians today.

Concerns were raised once defending World and European champions Serbia and Montenegro (former Yugoslavia) were set as the quarterfinal opponents. The Lithuanians still prevailed, already achieving a 30-19 advantage in the first quarter (30–19), and never giving any chances in a 98–82 victory. Serbian coach Božidar Maljković followed the match by saying that "Lithuania plays the best team-play in this championship. The victory over Serbia was a splendid result achieved by the tremendous players, capable of playing like a sustainable derivative. <...> Lithuanians are playing fast, interesting and tactically matured basketball. The game is the best I have observed in this championship. By game-play, Lithuania is only worth gold".[117]

Šarūnas Jasikevičius was the MVP of EuroBasket 2003 .

Semi-finals against France were next. Lithuanians won the first three quarters, and then in the last one the French squad came in ahead (60–58), and were leading by 70–65 with three minutes remaining. More struggles later, Lithuania were ahead, 72-70, with 15 seconds remaining. A final attack by the French NBA star Tony Parker was stopped by Ramūnas Šiškauskas, who added two more free throw points and gave the Neman river nation their fourth EuroBasket final ever, as well as an automatic spot in the 2004 Summer Olympics.[118]

Exhausted by the game versus France, the Lithuanians still had to prove themselves in the final against Spain. And while the first quarter was played equally (20–19), afterwards the Lithuanians dominated and never gave the Spanish any chance. Lithuania won their third European title 93–84 after a 64-year hiatus. Šarūnas Jasikevičius was named MVP, and was included along with Saulius Štombergas in the All-Tournament Team.

I think every human has a dream and feels happy when it comes true. When, before many years I saw the basketball legends: Modestas Paulauskas and Alexander Belov in the Kaunas Sports Hall, I understood that I will be unable without basketball. <...> I always dreamed of educating something similar to my childhood ideals. At the beginning of my work at the Šiauliai Basketball School I haven't even thought of becoming a legendary Žalgiris or the Lithuania national team coach. <...> By working as a coach, I had a chance to visit many countries worldwide and to play with the most famous teams, to train the basketball legends. After the victories versus the powerful teams, the ineffable feeling would embrace, the pride that I am Lithuanian – a basketball country representative. <...> When I was far from home, I was able to make sure that not everyone knows what Lithuania is, but they always knew the best Lithuanian basketball players. At the moment of the Tricolor rising we felt like the ambassadors of a tiny, but tough in basketball, land. We felt attention and respect from the biggest countries. The yellow-green-red decorated Lithuanian fans were astounding Australia, Sweden, Greece, Japan and other countries people with their unity and fantastic support. Together we felt so powerful that very few were able to overcome us. Although, there is only three million of us...[119]
— Antanas Sireika, coach of the EuroBasket 2003 champions

The word about the Lithuanians triumph spread wide.[120]

Lithuania is at the throne of the European basketball. Thousands of the Lithuanian fans are celebrating, the whole nation is celebrating as well. So be it. There is no other country in the Old Europe which would love the venerable, precious basketball more.[120]
The European championship was won by the true Lithuania national team. Without NBA stars.[120]
Lithuania smashed the golden Spanish ambitions, which they cherished since the beginning of the championship. The good Spanish mood, accuracy and the joy of the game evaporated in front of the Lithuania national team victory desire.[120]
The defense of the Lithuania national team took the breath away. <...> At the third quarter, when Lithuania was leading 62–48, what the Spanish players wished the most was to end the game and to head into the locker rooms just to finish this suffering.[120]

On September 14, 2013, event was organized in Žalgiris Arena in order to commemorate ten year jubilee of this victory. Lithuania national team composed from EuroBasket 2003 winners, except for Kšyštof Lavrinovič and Giedrius Gustas, played a friendly game against EuroStars team composed from former Europe stars and EuroBasket 2003 participants. Lithuania, led by Arvydas Macijauskas, won it with result 85:68.[121]

2004 Summer Olympic Games (Athens 2004)[edit]

In preparation for the Olympics, Lithuania lost to Italy twice while defeating France, Greece and Czech Republic along the way. The most impressive victory in the preparation for the games was achieved in the traditional Acropolis Tournament, where Lithuanians overcame Italian and Brazilian squads and lost to Greece 64–65. Italian victory over Greece gave the trophy to the Lithuanian national team for the first time on their fourth attempt. The team finished runner-up in the six-team Golden Ball competition, held in Belgrade, losing to the Serbian national team. Lithuania later played two games in Spain and invited Sweden for the send off game in Vilnius, defeating the opponents 99-58.[122]

Hellinikon Olympic Arena, where the Lithuanian national team recorded their first Olympic victory against USA.

It was the fourth Olympic games for the Lithuanian men national basketball team. Lithuanians started the Olympic Games slowly, laboring to a victory against the African champions Angola 78–63, with their opponents shooting an excellent 52% from the three-point line. Lithuanian national team also had difficulties with Puerto Rico, depending on a high average of three-pointers to beat the NBA-heavy squad by 98–90. Then Lithuanians, in front of 12,000 spectators, achieved revenge against their Greek hosts, defeating them 98–76. The next match would be against the United States, which again featured major NBA stars such as Allen Iverson, Tim Duncan,and LeBron James, but had already been proven as faultering following a defeat to Puerto Rico. Lithuania managed to beat the United States 94-90, only the fourth defeat by the Americans in the Olympic stage.[123] Jasikevičius, who had lost a possible buzzer beater against the Dream Team four years before, managed to score 28 points, including a decisive 10-point barrage in 69 seconds that gave Lithuania the lead in the final minutes.[124]

The fifth game, versus Australia, was not significant for the group standings: Lithuanians had already secured the first spot in the group. Lithuanians defeated Australia 100–85, maintaining their good run. Glen Saville: "Tonight we played with one of the world's strongest teams", coach Brian Goorjian: "There is no equals in the world for the Lithuanian team-play". In the quarter-finals Lithuanians easily swept China 95–75, successfully qualifying for the semi-finals.

The familiar Italian team awaited in the semi-finals. The Lithuania national team started well, winning the first quarter 29-17, and leading 34–23 in the second. However, the Italians managed to take the lead before half time and a close game ensued. Lithuanians were able to tie the game in the third quarter (53–53) and even take the lead in the fourth (78–73); however, at the buzzer the Italians celebrated a 91–100 victory, shattering the Lithuanian dream of Olympic gold.[125]

Seeking a fourth bronze medal, Lithuania would again face the United States. The game was a close affair, with the lead changing hands nine times. At half time, the United States were ahead 49–44, after the third quarter they maintained their advantage 74–71, with Lithuania closing to 83–82 in the 34th minute. However, the USA were more successful in the closing stages of the game, winning the match 104–96 and leaving the Lithuania men national basketball team without medals for the first time.[125]

I have participated in many championships, tournaments, cups games, however I would like to distinguish the Olympic Games and their basketball games. It is the sport feast of all the continents, the whole world. Only there you can prove to the world which sportsman, team and country is athletic the most. The most capable, the most talented athletes, teams gathers from all around the world there. Lithuania men national basketball team already played in the five Olympic Games and achieved the very solid, stable results. Therefore, the name of the Lithuania become much more known in the basketball world and not only in it. Thanks to the abundant media representatives squad, which displays and describes every victory, achievement worldwide. The three bronze performances in the Olympic Games rang widely in the whole planet.
I had a great honor during the Athens Games opening ceremony to bear the Lithuanian flag. It was seen, Lithuania's name was once again heard in the world. I am very grateful to the fate that I had the opportunity to contribute in proclaiming the name of the Homeland.[125]
— Saulius Štombergas, the former long-term Lithuania national basketball team captain

EuroBasket 2005[edit]

Main article: EuroBasket 2005
Robertas Javtokas, one of the Lithuanian squad leaders in 2005.

EuroBasket 2005 in Serbia and Montenegro would feature many absences in the Lithuanian squad, such as Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Saulius Štombergas, Arvydas Macijauskas, and Donatas Slanina. Though, the team had Ramūnas Šiškauskas, one of the biggest European stars of that time. For preparation, the Lithuanian team attended tournaments in Europe, Asia and Australia, being represented in some of them by the reserve roster - such as in the 2005 Stanković Continental Champions' Cup in Beijing, which the Lithuanians won after defeating 4 of the 5 opponents.[126] On September 1, 2005, a friendly with Ireland had Lithuania achieve the 600th victory in the team's history, 97–62 in Kaunas.[127]

Croatia and Lithuania after game press conference in 2005.

Starting the tournament as defending champions, Lithuania proved their favoritism by beating Turkey, Croatia and Bulgaria with solid differences and an average of 88 points. However, the knockout rounds had the team eliminated with an underwhelming performance, scoring only 47 points in a quarterfinal with France. National team coach Antanas Sireika said: "We played the worst game in the championship and I think that the main reason of this is that the players failed to deal with the psychological tension. This is the main losing reason".[128] The only consolation was the remaining opportunity to qualify into the World Championship, which the Lithuanians achieved by beating Russia and Slovenia for fifth place.[129][130] Lithuania won 5 of 6 games in the tournament. Consequently, the competition scheme was questioned in its reliability.[131]

FIBA World Championship 2006[edit]

Lithuania-Germany game

The 2006 FIBA World Championship in Japan had Lithuania matching the 7th place from their 1998 debut, but many saw this performance as an under-achievement. Lithuania started the tournament with a narrow 2-point loss to Turkey, followed by an overtime defeat to eventual finalists Greece which had Lithuania suffering 25 turnovers. Confidence was restored with wins over Qatar, Australia, and Brazil, that qualified Lithuania for the knockout rounds against Italy. They won the match by 3 points 71–68, although Arvydas Macijauskas fouled Gianluca Basile during a 3-point attempt in the dying seconds which gave Italy the chance to level the score, but all 3 free throws were missed. They lost their quarter final match against the eventual champions, Spain by 22 points. Lithuania turned the ball over 28 times during that match. They lost to Turkey in over-time of the 5th–8th place classification round, in which they wasted a 12-point lead in the last 3 minutes of the fourth quarter to take the match into over-time and eventually lost the 5-minute over-time 20:9. The final result was 95–84 to Turkey. They won their last match against Germany 77–62.[132] Sireika resigned soon after the championship.[133] On 28 December 2006, Ramūnas Butautas, son of Stepas Butautas, was announced as the new coach of the team.[134]

EuroBasket 2007[edit]

EuroBasket 2007 in Spain held big responsibilities for Lithuania, that had to prove the failure in the previous continental tournament passed, while holding higher stakes for Olympic qualifying, restricted to only the medallists. The first international friendly of the year was played in the newly built Šiauliai Arena, the first time the Lithuanian team played in their "Sun City". Though, the debut ended up with a big surprise. Lithuania lost to Sweden 62–69. Further preparation games were variable for Lithuania as well, losing to Latvia and Spain as visitors while defeating Russia in Vilnius. A fifth Acropolis Tournament had Lithuania again getting second place after losing to the Greek hosts.[135]

"We were controlling the game and then that German Bird came out and started making nonsenses. I'm dazzled. We defended him very well. I have no clue how much he scored. 40? 50? We worked with him very well. I'm dazzled. What happened in the third quarter? Dirk started shooting. Dirk is Dirk. Fantastic."

— Šarūnas Jasikevičius, following the 84–80 victory over Germany in EuroBasket 2007.[136]

Lithuania started EuroBasket well, crushing both Turkey (86–69),[137] and the Czech Republic (95–75) before a harder group closer with Germany.[138] Dirk Nowitzki, who scored 28 points, helped the Germans cut a 17-point Lithuanian advantage at halftime to just four by the game's end (84–80).[139] Lithuanians successfully qualified into the second stage.

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, addressing the fans before singing Trys Milijonai along with the crowd, during the team's meeting ceremony in Vilnius.

Round 2 had Lithuania winning much disputed games against Italy (79–74),[140] and France (88-73),[141] before a sweeping of Slovenia 80–61.[142]

Meeting of bronze medalists in Vilnius, 17 September 2007.

The quarter-finals had Lithuania against the traditional Croatia national team, which did not yield to the Lithuanians' superiority and even lead after the first and third quarters. An imposing fourth quarter had Lithuania achieving 74–72, completing seven straight victories en route to the semifinal.[143]

Russia was awaiting at the semi-finals. The Lithuanians, who had yet to defeat the Russians, failed to accomplish this again. After the first six minutes, the Russians had a 18–3 lead, which escalated to 33–14. Though, the Lithuanians' resilience made them erase the deficit by the third quarter, 52–52. Eventually, fatigue that remained from the tough quarterfinal caugh up with Lithuania, especially playing against the such powerful adversary. The Russian won 86–74, despite the restless efforts of Lithuanian captain Ramūnas Šiškauskas, who scored 30 points.[144] Following the game, Šarūnas Jasikevičius declared that: "We have to forget everything and endeavor to win the medals. <...> The situation of the Greeks is the same as ours. They also painfully lost, they will wish to achieve the medals as well. We will give everything we got and we will try to win".[145]

The upcoming game had two prizes at stake, the European bronze - which Lithuania had never won, only three golds and two silvers - and the last direct spot for the 2008 Summer Olympics, held in Beijing. Lithuania managed to beat the Greeks 78–69.[146][147] On September 17, the players had a meeting ceremony in Vilnius to get state awards.[148]

"The basketball, with all its sudden leaps, constant anxiety and victories, Lithuanians are living with heart and with blood. Maybe because of this they know all the subtleties of this game. In every decade at the basketball arenas, just like from the miraculous horn of profusion, new faces of the Lithuanian basketball appears."

"Extraordinary and incomprehensible country with its population equal to only a few Cantons of Switzerland. Magic, miracle or maybe just a good pedagogy, firmly rooted in and respected traditions and historical heritage?"

"The veil of mystery is still not outstretched because the essential question remains without the answer – from where this virtuosos constellation comes from, this basketball masters army? What kind of the fields of magic, what kind of the unlimited golden arteries, what kind of the volcanoes this straight roads engraved country is hiding – the homeland to just 3.5 million people?"[149][150]

2008 Summer Olympic Games (Beijing 2008)[edit]

With the fifth straight Olympic tournament following independence ahead, the Lithuania national team started 2008 with a frustration. The Cleveland Cavaliers refused to release Žydrūnas Ilgauskas for the Games, even as the LKF managed to find financing for the NBA franchise's US$22 million insurance tax.[151][152] This event still causes backlash against the Cavaliers for Lithuanians, specially as Ilgauskas wound up never playing for his national team.

Žydrūnas Ilgauskas was denied a participation in the Olympics by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

"I would like to thank to everyone, especially federation, all the insurers for all their efforts and determination. They have been working in days and in nights so that my dream – to play for the national team in the Olympics would come true. <…> It’s a pity that I was unable to do that previously. <…> I think everyone of us aren’t friends with Cleveland currently, but that is the way we had to go and we did. <…> During the season I got elbowed into my back <…> After the season I rested a few weeks and began training because I wished to arrive the training camp from the beginning and to prepare, however the pain returned. <…> Doctors told that there are two moves: resting or operation after which you have to rest for two months. <…> I really wished to play a lot and it would hurt in my heart if I would have to sit and would be unable to play. If I did not want that, I wouldn’t have gone through all these roads of the cross. <…> Of course, the club and the NBA didn’t helped, were throwing sticks into the wheels. <…> It’s a business for them. The life doesn’t end with this."

Žydrūnas Ilgauskas, during a press conference where he announced that he will not participate in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.[153]
Linas Kleiza, one of the Lithuanian team leaders at the 2008 Olympics.

Preparation for the tournament was a little bit different this time: Lithuania did not compete in any tournaments, only playing friendlies. The only two defeats in 9 games were against Spain and the United States.[154] The 2008 Olympic tournament started with a tough opponent, defending gold medallists Argentina. Lithuania lead for most of the game, only for the Argentinians to tie with 18 seconds remaining. A decisive play by Linas Kleiza gave the lead and the victory for Lithuanians 79–75. The second game against Asia representatives Iran had Lithuania surprisingly losing the first quarter 15–20, only to dominate afterwards for a handful 99-67. Though, then Lithuanians obviously shown their advantage, crushing them 99–67. Difficult victories over Russia (86-79, Lithuania's first FIBA victory over them) and Croatia (86–73) gave Lithuania a guaranteed first place spot in the group. Thus the team barely cared in the round 1 closer with Australia, suffering 25 turnovers and being smashed 75–106.[155]

The deadly quarter-final had Lithuania against hosts China, in front of 18,000 spectators. With Chinese star Yao Ming well defended by Lithuania, the Balts crushed them 94–68 to advanced into the semi-finals.

Ramūnas Butautas, coach of the 2008 Olympic Team.

Though, again a tough semi-final awaited against defending world champions Spain. The victory value was huge: the dreamed Olympic final, guaranteed silver and a chance at gold, while also providing the opportunity to take back on the 66-91 shellacking during preparations. Both teams played at their best, with Spain compensating the absence of José Calderón to lead by the first quarter, only for Lithuania to dominate for the following two and having a minimal 74-73 advantage by the fourth. Then rising performances by Rudy Fernandez and Pau Gasol (9 and 7 points respectively) during the concluding quarter along with the Lithuanians' exhaustion and lack of big men input lead the Spanish to barely edge and win the semifinal 91-86. Head coach Ramūnas Butautas said that the game-play was good and that there is no need to be disappointed.[156][157]

Lithuania was for the fifth consecutive time at the Olympic bronze match, hoping to get their fourth medals against former Olympic champions Argentina. Though, the tough semifinal had the Lithuanians tired and emotionally distraught, which the experienced adversary took advantage despite not counting with injured star Manu Ginobili. By the third quarter, the game seemed already lost as Lithuanians trailed 67–49. The reduction of the deficit in the fourth was not enough to prevent Lithuania from losing another third place game, 75–87. Still, five Olympic semifinals proved the Lithuanians were still one of the strongest basketball teams worldwide despite its small size.[158][159]

EuroBasket 2009[edit]

The Lavrinovič twins (Kšyštof, left, and Darjuš, right) could not prevent Lithuania from having its worst continental result at EuroBasket 2009.

Before EuroBasket 2009 in Spain, Lithuanian stars like Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Arvydas Macijauskas, Rimantas Kaukėnas and Žydrūnas Ilgauskas decided not to join the national team. After huge losses in the team roster and point guard shortage, Lithuania started the tournament with a loss to Turkey (76–84).[160] This was the first time in the 21st century that the Lithuanians began a championship with a defeat.[161] Later Lithuanians disappointingly lost to Poland, and depended on a strong fourth quarter to beat Bulgaria.[162][163] Finishing third in its group, Lithuania qualified for the second round. However, it already begun badly with a 23-point loss to Slovenia.[164] Following this shocking loss, team's captain Robertas Javtokas, when asked about the team's future, said: "I don't know what else we could promise. We must get straight or it is enough of promises. We must come as men with balls and not like kids. Otherwise, other teams will humiliate us again".[165] The team's game still not improved, with a defeat to Spain (70–84) diminishing the Lithuanians' chances to qualify for the quarter-finals,[166] and a loss to Serbia eliminating the team outright, with the final standing being a measly 12th place.[167] Coach Ramūnas Butautas took all responsibility for the fiasco and resigned.[168] It is regarded as the worst Lithuania national team performance ever.

FIBA World Championship 2010[edit]

On 12 December 2009, Lithuania was granted a wild card to participate in the World Championship in Turkey the following year.[169]

Lithuania started the tournament against New Zealand. After a tough first quarter, Lithuanians took control of the game and kept ahead by a comfortable lead, finishing 92–79. The second game was against Canada.[170] After reducing a 17-point deficit in the fourth quarter, Lithuanians finally gained a small lead towards the end of the game. Canada had a chance to win the game, but Jermaine Anderson's game winning three rimmed out at the last second and Lithuania celebrated their second victory 70–68. The next match was against the defending champion Spain, and after another comeback from an 18-point deficit, the Lithuanians won the upsetting game 76–73, Linas Kleiza's free-throws sealing the victory.

Already guaranteed in the knockout rounds, Lithuania faced the group's other undefeated team, France. The French quickly gained momentum in the first half and forced Lithuania to a double-digit deficit. However, in the second half, Lithuania deftly reduced the deficit and cruised past the French defense, outscoring them 45–25 to win the game 69–55 and take the group's leadership. The preliminary round ended with a perfect record as Lebanon was handily defeated 84–66.

After sweeping China (78–67) in the eighth finals and crushing Argentina in a blowout game (104–85) in the quarterfinals, Lithuania lost to Team USA by 15 points. They captured the bronze medal after winning against Eurobasket's silver medalist Serbia 99–88. This was Lithuania's best World Championship result.

Jonas Maciulis during the 2010 semi-finals versus the United States.

EuroBasket 2011[edit]

Lithuania national team members thanking to fans after the game in 2011.

After 72 years, Lithuania was again hosting the EuroBasket in 2011. The national team was under much pressure given both the expectations as hosts and the outstanding performance at the World Championship the year before. The team tried to combine future prospects and the past stars, but during the leading months, lost two of its starting players, Linas Kleiza and Jonas Mačiulis, due to knee injuries.[171][172] During EuroBasket, Marijonas Petravičius was diagnosed with pulmonary embolism after three games played. Not only Petravičius had to miss the rest of the tournament,[173] but the disease marked the end of his professional career.[174]

Lithuania versus Greece in 2011

Numerous officials and other European basketball specialists and pundits found EuroBasket 2011 the best European tournament ever, particularly due to the Lithuanian enthusiasm for the sport.[73][175] However, the Lithuanian team wound up underperforming, suffering an upset in the quarterfinals to Macedonia.[176] The consolation playoffs led to a final standing of fifth place, giving Lithuania a spot at the 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men.

2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament[edit]

Twenty years later, Lithuania had to go through a dedicated Olympic qualifier, the 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men, held on July 2012 in Caracas, Venezuela. The top three teams would get spots at the 2012 Olympics basketball tournament.

The team started off the tournament with a convincing victory against Venezuela, followed by an upset to Nigeria the following day. With all three teams tied with one win and one loss, Venezuela wound up disqualified due to a lesser point difference. Afterwards, many incidents regarding the Lithuanian squad were rumored to be caused by disgruntled Venezuelans. These included a tank column near the training hall polluting the air during the Lithuanian team workout,[177][178] a broken bus during the trip to the arena before the quarter-final game against Puerto Rico,[179] and vanished jerseys and water during said match. Despite all that, Lithuania managed to defeat Puerto Rico in a dramatic game.[180] In the semifinals, Lithuania crushed the Dominican Republic and thus qualified for the 2012 London Olympics.[181]

2012 Summer Olympic Games (London 2012)[edit]

Olympic quarterfinal: Lithuania vs. Russia

After dominating in the Qualifying Tournament, Lithuania had a tough time at the Olympics. The first game against Argentina turned into a fiasco, as the South Americans forced Lithuania into a double-digit deficit in the first half, and kept a comfortable lead in the second half to finish the game strong, 102-79. Luis Scola, who was held down to 13 points in the quarterfinal match against Lithuania two years ago at the World Championship, led Argentina with 32 points. Lithuania rebounded from the loss playing with Nigeria, which also served to avenge the only defeat in the Qualifying Tournament. Playing exemplary defense against the Nigerian bigs Al-Farouq Aminu and Ike Diogu, Lithuania handily won 72-53. Next was another defeat, as France rode Tony Parker and Boris Diaw to win the game 74–82. The following game was against USA, which had just broke recordswith their 156-73 blowout of Nigeria.[182] Right from the beginning, Lithuania proved to be a tough opponent for Team USA, with Linas Kleiza scoring 25 points, and former Duke player Martynas Pocius having 7 rebounds and 6 assists. The Lithuania were down by only 4 points at the half and 6 at the end of the third quarter. In the final quarter, Lithuania momentarily took the lead 84–82, but lost it again as LeBron James scored 9 points in 4 minutes to achieve a 94–99 win.[183] ESPN's Marc Stein reacted to the near-defeat remembering the other struggle the "Dream Team" had with Lithuania in 2000, and adding that even if it was "the weakest Lithuanian team they've ever faced in Olympic basketball competition, a limited Lithuania is still Lithuania. Still stubborn. Still dangerous. Still causing a variety of problems for USA Basketball."[184]

Despite its third loss in the tournament, Lithuania still had a chance to qualify to the knockout rounds by defeating Tunisia, which they did 63–76. Thus, Lithuania had the final spot in the quarterfinals, facing the other group's leader, Russia. While the Russians never left the lead, Lithuania always kept it close, and by the fourth quarter was just one point behind. Still their attempts for an upset fell short, and ended up losing 74–83, making it the first time Lithuania missed the Olympic semifinal. Veterans Rimantas Kaukėnas, Darius Songaila and Šarūnas Jasikevičius scored half of the team's points in that game. Later in an interview, Jasikevičius said that he expected the younger players from the World Championship to carry the team, but the opposite happened.[185] Songaila and Kaukėnas agreed, and all three retired from the national team after the tournament. On 1 October, the Lithuanian Basketball Federation brought Jonas Kazlauskas back after 12 years to replace Kęstutis Kemzūra.[186][187]

EuroBasket 2013[edit]

Jonas Kazlauskas has returned to the Lithuania national basketball team in 2013.

Even before EuroBasket 2013 in Slovenia started, the Lithuanian team had problems: their flight on September 2 was cancelled due to airplane problems, forcing them to delay their flight until the next day,[188] and miss their first morning workout in Podmežakla Hall. Just one day later, Lithuania played their first game against Serbia. Unable to defend Serbian star Nenad Krstić, who dominated the game with 20 points and 9 rebounds, Lithuania lost 63–56.[189] The second game against Macedonia had many expectations, as Lithuania wanted to avenge getting upset at home in the previous tournament. Through effective defense of Bo McCalebb, the Lithuanians could get their first victory with 75–67.[190] Two tough games followed, against fellow Balts Latvia (67–59),[191] and Montenegro in overtime (77:70),[192] due to Kšyštof Lavrinovič, who only scored 2 points during his first three matches, rising up to score 24 points. The group stage ended against Bosnia and Herzegovina, whose star Mirza Teletović scored 31 points and fantastic three-pointers to beat the Lithuanians 72–78, who still managed to qualify to the second round with crucial thre-pointers by Linas Kleiza.[193]

Mantas Kalnietis led the Lithuania squad.

Second round started against defending vice-champions France, which forced Lithuania into solid defense - especially against Tony Parker - to win the game 76–62.[194] Then Lithuanians easily crushed Belgium 86–67,[195] and narrowly defeated Ukraine with 70–63.[196] The knockout round wound begin against Italy, which Lithuania beat by 81–77.[197] The semifinals with Croatia had Jonas Mačiulis, Linas Kleiza and Mantas Kalnietis dominating with 63 points combined out of the team's 77, guaranteeing Lithuania their fifth European final.[198] The final was a rematch with France. Lithuanians only fought point-to-point in the first quarter. By the third, France finished the quarter with a 14-0 run that kept Lithuania scoreless for four minutes. Eventually the Lithuanians suffered a 66–80 defeat.[199] Despite the deep run, some players said that it was hard to celebrate after losing the final.[200][201] Still, on 23 September 2013, thousands of Lithuanians came to the Rotušės square to celebrate the Lithuania national team success,[202] and the following day the squad was greated at the Presidential Palace.[203][204]

2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup[edit]

After becoming European vice-champions in 2013, Lithuanians automatically qualified into the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain. On May 13, head coach Jonas Kazlauskas announced both the extended main roster for the national team and the reserve roster.[205] On July 1, he announced the condensed candidate roster.[206] Captain Robertas Javtokas and team leader Linas Kleiza decided not to participate in the 2014 World Cup due to injuries. On July 7, first Lithuania national team training camp was organized in Palanga.[207][208][209][210] On August 18, Lithuania won a preparation game against Slovenia with result 80–76, achieving the national team's 500th victory and the 100th under coach Jonas Kazlauskas.[211] After first ten of ten Lithuania preparation victories AJ Mitnick, a USA basketball analyst, wrote:

"It seems unlikely that a country with a smaller population than Connecticut could challenge the United States on basketball’s international stage. But that is exactly what Lithuania plans on doing."

"Lithuania may not be anywhere as strong as Team USA. But this is a team that could sneak up on the Americans on a bad day and should be a strong contender for a bronze medal this summer." [212]

On August 26, just a few hours before the last preparation game against Croatia, team staff announced final team roster without Artūras Gudaitis and Adas Juškevičius.[213] However everything turned upside down rapidly when during just first three-game minutes team newest captain and main point guard Mantas Kalnietis suffered serious clavicular dislocation and had to miss the World Cup.[214] Juškevičius was chosen to replace Kalnietis together with Šarūnas Vasiliauskas in the final roster when both of them were seeking for the second point guard spot in the national team all-summer long.[215] Paulius Jankūnas became new team captain.[216]

Adas Juškevičius unexpectedly qualified into the Lithuania national team after Mantas Kalnietis injury.

At the beginning of the tournament, on August 30, Lithuania defeated FIBA Americas champions Mexico after a tough battle with result 87–74.[217] While the Mexicans won the first quarter 27-22, the Lithuanians then achieved their domination, marked by scoring 20 points against only 2 in the third quarter.[218] One day later, African champions Angola also offered a tough game, that the Lithuanians won 75–62,[219] led by the young [[Donatas Motiejūnas]R] and Jonas Valančiūnas, who scored a combined 23 points and defended the team with 18 rebounds. Tough games continued for Lithuania. On September 2, during game against Australia, Lithuanians had 19 points deficit after two quarters. Even through they tried their best to overtake Australians, winning third quarter 28–15 and at some points having the lead, Lithuanians lost the game 75–82.[220] Head coach Jonas Kazlauskas described the game as having the team's worst first half that season. During the fourth tournament game against South Korea, Lithuania achieved strange anti-record as the first team in FIBA World Cup history which haven't got a chance to shoot any free-throws in a whole match.[221] Although, Lithuanians still easily swept Koreans with result 79–49 and guaranteed spot in the second stage.[222] Lithuania took first spot in the group after the tremendous victory against Slovenia 67–64.[223] Astonishing defense was played during the fourth quarter, during which Slovenians were only able to score 2 points.

During the eighth-finals, Jonas Valančiūnas led Lithuania to a difficult victory against New Zealand, 76–71.[224] In the quarter-finals, Renaldas Seibutis helped Lithuania beat Turkey 73–61 and advanced into the semi-finals, once again meeting the United States.[225] Before the game, USA national team head coach Mike Krzyzewski said:

I have coached against Lithuania many times. I love Lithuania and they really are one of the greatest basketball countries. They love the game, they play with the passion, they play together, always as a team. They play with the great heart and it will be a tough game for us.[226]
— Coach K
Renaldas Seibutis often played as PG during the crucial game moments.

Lithuania fought point-for-point through two quarters, however after the half-time Team USA scored 10–0 and after winning the third quarter 33–14 left no chances for the Lithuanian team to come back, ultimately losing the game 68–96.[227] It was one of the worst performances for Lithuania against Team USA, following the 51-point defeat in the 1992 Olympics versus the so-called "Dream Team". After the match, coach Jonas Kazlauskas criticized the refereeing: "It just shows what respect every team has. When I asked the referee about the (technical) foul call, he said that he warned the bench not to jump, when Team USA bench was jumping and discussing with the referees just in the same way. Overall, the judging was hardly understandable until Team USA had 20 points lead. Later there was no point in discussing with the referees anymore".[228] Longtime Lithuanian national team games broadcast commentator Robertas Petrauskas ironically described the judging live by saying: "When we discuss the judging against Team USA with the journalists from other countries, we all agree that if the referees would call the turnover every time USA player steps before bumping the ball, Team USA would be the most frequent fallible team in the tournament".[229] During the bronze medal game Lithuania faced France, just 2 years removed from the EuroBasket defeat. A terrific battle where youngsters Jonas Valančiūnas and Adas Juškevičius tried to give a win with 39 points combined ensued, but the French still beat them 95-93.[230] Despite not winning any medals, the team was received by thousands of Lithuanians at Rotušės square who wanted to thank the national team for their efforts.[231] According to research, over 2,223 million people observed the national team games live in Lithuania, which is over 76% of the country's population.[232]

EuroBasket 2015[edit]

"The goal for us this year would be to fight for the title. <...> We were frustrated to lose in the Final two years ago, and we would like to win a gold medal as soon as possible. <...> Like every other Lithuanian player, I dream of winning a title with my country."

Donatas Motiejūnas, sharing his dreams in EuroBasket 2015 in February, before his back injury in April.[233]

Following the World Cup's fourth place, Lithuania automatically qualified into the EuroBasket 2015. On May 5, head coach Jonas Kazlauskas published a extended 25–player main roster,[234] that did not include two long-time players, Simas Jasaitis and Kšyštof Lavrinovič. On July 9, the shortened roster was announced,[235] with the 12 players enrolled into training camp in Palanga beginning 11 days later.[236][237] Four mainstays of the team were unable to make the list: power forward Donatas Motiejūnas and centers Darjuš Lavrinovič and Martynas Pocius due to injuries, and Linas Kleiza for exhaustion, expressing a need to rest.[238][239][240][241]

Lithuania began the preparation games phase by defeating Australia twice, as well as Finland and Austria once. Later the team hosted the Huawei Cup at Žalgiris Arena, being champions despite a defeat to Croatia due to wins over Turkey and Macedonia. Lithuanians also appeared again at the Acropolis Tournament, finishing third after crushing the Netherlands, while losing to host Greece and the previously defeated Turkish squad. Totally, the national team achieved 7 victories of 10 during the friendly preparation matches.[242] On September 1, the national team's final EuroBasket 2015 roster was announced.[243]

Jonas Mačiulis solid performances firmly contributed into the successful games endings for the Lithuania national team.

"It was decided to let him play 5 minutes in the first half and 5 minutes in the second half, but the situation required differently. Jonas himself rushed to the court and said that he will rather run on the floor than sit on the bench."

Jonas Kazlauskas, describing the Jonas Valančiūnas double-double returning.[244]

Lithuania began the European championship in Riga, on September 5, versus the Ukraine. In an Arena Riga almost completely filled with their yellow-green-red decorated fans,[245] the Lithuanians began the match easily and after the first quarter already had a solid lead (19–12), though then things started getting worse for them. After solid Jerome Randle and Kyrylo Fesenko performances, Ukrainians began to successfully reduce the deficit. They equally played the second quarter (19–19) and won both the third (17–19) and the fourth (19–23) quarters. The fate of the game was determined with just 1.4 second remaining when Lithuanians were leading by one and Ukrainians had the ball. Robertas Javtokas blocked the Ukrainian final attempt to outweigh the score and ended the Saturday evening drama in his team's favor.[246] Further, the game versus the hosts Latvians, as always began intensely and at the half Lithuanians were ahead just 28–29, however then the Lithuanian squad, led by Jonas Mačiulis, almost completely shut down the Latvians three-pointers (only 20% during the whole game) and after two solid remaining quarters (11–20, 10–19) won the meeting confidently 49–68.[247] The next day, Lithuania, led by the unstoppable Mantas Kalnietis (European championship all-time record of 13 assists) and Jonas Valančiūnas (25 points, 12 rebounds) tandem, surprisingly lost to the Belgium national team 74–76.[248][249] Matt Lojeski tipped the ball in with just bits of a second remaining. The referees took quite some time to analyze if it really was made on time, but finally decided to count it, leaving the Lithuanian fans and players heads down after the shocking first loss of the tournament. Though, after the game many Lithuanians started discussing that the tip in was made when the time was already expired and that the referees made inaccurate call. However the Lithuanian squad was unable to make an appeal because, according to the FIBA rules, it should be made 15 minutes after the game, but the team absolutely has no possibilities to immediately watch the replay video. Lithuanian Basketball Federation still wrote a letter to FIBA by questioning how they should act in such situations.[250][251] Due to a viral disease, Jonas Valančiūnas had to miss the fourth game versus Estonians, who returned to EuroBasket for the first time since 2001, and the match unexpectedly was only slightly different than the last one. The result was tied once again during the final seconds (62–62), but this time Jonas Mačiulis accurate shot saved the Lithuanian team (64–62), although none of Lithuanians, including Mačiulis, has shown any positive emotions following it, because of the poor game-play they showcase during the beginning of the championship.[252] Lithuania national team games reached new tension highs during the final first round meeting versus the Czech Republic national team. Despite the solid Jonas Valančiūnas double-double returning, the team once again had tied result during the final seconds (69–69), and therefore had to play the overtime, which they won (16–12), and finally took the first place in the group, in spite of all the previous struggles.[253][254]

Stade Pierre-Mauroy hosted the EuroBasket 2015 Final, where Lithuanians won their second consecutive silver medals in front of a European basketball record 27,372 spectators.[255][256]

"I'm proud that I represent Lithuania. I was working with the Greece, China national teams. With Greeks we won the European championship bronze. There you reach victories, you rejoice, you are proud of you work, but then is no such emotions, such tension, you don't consume so many nerves like here."

Jonas Kazlauskas, about the feeling to represent Lithuania.[257]

At the eight-final Jonas Mačiulis continued to carry the stagnating Lithuania national team over his shoulders past Georgia, 85–81. The game again was a true thriller, with the Lithuanian squad leading just 80–79 during the final 15 seconds, but then Mačiulis secured the Lithuanian victory by hammering an important three-pointer with just a few seconds remaining on the shot clock.[258] Mačiulis had the greatest amount of EFF Points in EuroBasket history with 50 points in that game (34 points with 85% accuracy, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks),[259] being the first player to hit the 50 point mark since Dirk Nowitzki's 52 in the 2001 bronze medal game.[260] At the quarter-final Lithuania, just like two years ago, faced Italy, led by such prominent NBA players like Danilo Gallinari, Marco Belinelli and Andrea Bargnani. The game was so intense that it required an overtime, in which the Lithuania national team turned a higher gear, with three players scoring double-doubles (Jonas Valančiūnas, Jonas Mačiulis and Mantas Kalnietis) en route to a 95-85 that gave Lithuania their third straight semi-final.[261] Following the game, Mačiulis said: "We won, but there are only three medals sets. We have to win one of these".[262] The semi-final was a true European basketball classic: Lithuania versus Serbia, coached by Aleksandar Đorđević, who is widely remembered from the memorable EuroBasket 1995 final as player. The Lithuania national team was leading most of the playing-time and at times even had 9-11 points advantage, though everything once again finished with an amazing drama, which Lithuanians tremendously won 64–67, despite being considered as underdogs by many due to the undefeated Serbians status in the championship, and advanced into their second straight EuroBasket final.[263][264] Furthermore, the victory also automatically put the Lithuania men's national team to the 2016 Summer Olympics, their seventh consecutive Olympics,[265][266] and making Lithuania the only European squad in all Olympics since 1992.[267] Coach Jonas Kazlauskas said that it is unbelievable to beat Serbia by making 20 turnovers and only 2 accurate three-pointers.[268] The streets of Lithuania gone crazy after the conclusion of the game.[269] While none of the Lithuanians playing in the EuroBasket 2015 Final were part of the team who won the 2003 tournament, the adversary was the same, a Spanish team led by Pau Gasol and featuring Felipe Reyes, as well as two of the referees, Luigi Lamonica and Ilija Belošević.[270] And this time, the final went absolutely different, with Spain hitting with stunning accuracy right from the 19-8 first quarter. The Lithuanian squad tried to reduce the deficit multiple times, but the Spanish kept the lead at all times for a 80–63 win.[271][272] Jonas Valančiūnas and Jonas Mačiulis were selected to the All-Tournament Team,[273] but were visibly unhappy at losing the second straight European championship final.[274][275] Yet on the next day, the national team members, as in the previous years, were warmly greeted at the Town Hall in Vilnius and decorated with the much wider smiles.[276][277] On September 22, the team was invited to the Presidential Palace, where they were awarded with the state awards.[278][279][280]

2016 Summer Olympic Games (Rio 2016)[edit]

Lithuania men's national team automatically qualified into the 2016 Summer Olympics without the need to compete in the qualifying tournament after being finalists of EuroBasket 2015. Lithuania, China, Australia and the United States are the only countries to compete in all the Olympic Games since 1992.

Competitive record[edit]

Team[edit]

Current roster[edit]

Roster for the Eurobasket 2015.

Lithuania men's national basketball team roster
Players Coaches
Pos. # Name Age – Date of birth Ht. Club Ctr.
PG 5 Kalnietis, Mantas 28 – (1986-09-06)6 September 1986 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) Žalgiris Lithuania
G/F 6 Gailius, Deividas 27 – (1988-04-26)26 April 1988 2.00 m (6 ft 7 in) Lietuvos Rytas Lithuania
SF 8 Mačiulis, Jonas 30 – (1985-02-10)10 February 1985 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) Real Madrid Spain
SG 10 Seibutis, Renaldas 30 – (1985-07-23)23 July 1985 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) Žalgiris Lithuania
F/C 11 Sabonis, Domantas 19 – (1996-05-03)3 May 1996 2.08 m (6 ft 10 in) Gonzaga United States
C 12 Kavaliauskas, Antanas 30 – (1984-09-19)19 September 1984 2.08 m (6 ft 10 in) Lietuvos Rytas Lithuania
PF 13 Jankūnas, Paulius 31 – (1984-04-29)29 April 1984 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in) Žalgiris Lithuania
C 15 Javtokas, Robertas (C) 35 – (1980-03-20)20 March 1980 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) Žalgiris Lithuania
C 17 Valančiūnas, Jonas 23 – (1992-05-06)6 May 1992 2.13 m (7 ft 0 in) Toronto Raptors Canada
SF 19 Kuzminskas, Mindaugas 25 – (1989-10-19)19 October 1989 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in) Unicaja Málaga Spain
SG 21 Milaknis, Artūras 29 – (1986-06-16)16 June 1986 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) Unics Kazan Russia
PG 43 Lekavičius, Lukas 21 – (1994-03-30)30 March 1994 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) Žalgiris Lithuania
Head coach
Assistant coach(es)

Legend
  • Club – describes last
    club before the tournament
  • Age – describes age
    on 30 August 2015

Depth chart[edit]

Pos. Starter Bench Bench Bench Reserve Inactive
C Jonas Valančiūnas Antanas Kavaliauskas Robertas Javtokas
PF Paulius Jankūnas Domantas Sabonis
SF Jonas Mačiulis Mindaugas Kuzminskas Deividas Gailius
SG Renaldas Seibutis Artūras Milaknis
PG Mantas Kalnietis Lukas Lekavičius

Notable players[edit]

Notable Lithuania national basketball team members[edit]

Pranas Lubinas
Arvydas Sabonis
Rimas Kurtinaitis
Valdemaras Chomičius
Ramūnas Šiškauskas
Darius Songaila
Šarūnas Jasikevičius
Robertas Javtokas
Linas Kleiza
Jonas Valančiūnas
Donatas Motiejūnas
Name Position Years PPG RPG APG Remarks
Feliksas Kriaučiūnas 1937, 1939 3.4 N/A N/A Notable for his efforts in coaching and popularizing basketball in Lithuania during the late 1930s. He also firmly contributed in developing nowadays basketball in Lithuania.
Pranas Talzūnas 1937 12.2 N/A N/A Led the team during EuroBasket 1937 and was named MVP of the tournament. Talzūnas is regarded as the first player to use hook shot.
Leonas Baltrūnas 1937, 1939 4.5 N/A N/A Not very famous for his contributions during the European championships in points, but is very remarkable in the Lithuanian sport and especially the Lithuanian Australian sport history. He has firmly contributing in popularizing the sport there, being the organizer of the first Lithuanian Australian Sport Games in 1950. The games are still ongoing nowadays. He also was the Australian national team coach in 1955.
Pranas Lubinas Center 1939 13.17 N/A N/A Popularized the sport in Lithuania in the late 1930s. He was de facto MVP of EuroBasket 1939 (not officially awarded due to him being too tall). As a result, Lubinas is often regarded as the "grandfather of Lithuanian basketball".
Before playing for Lithuania squad, Pranas Lubinas won the gold medal at the inaugural basketball Olympic tournament in 1936 as Team USA captain.
Mykolas Ruzgys 1939 10.2 N/A N/A The official EuroBasket 1939 MVP. Pranas Lubinas was unable to receive the award due to his height.
Vytautas Budriūnas 1939 10.4 N/A N/A One of the hook shot pioneers, also notable for his one-handed jump shot.
Juozas Jurgėla 1939 4.2 N/A N/A One of the key players in EuroBasket 1939. Noted for impressive dribbling and passing.
Sergėjus Jovaiša Small forward 1992 3.1 0.3 0.3 Jovaiša won most of his titles with Soviet Union national team, but he also was member of the first post-independence Lithuania national basketball team, winning a bronze at the 1992 Olympics.
Arvydas Sabonis Center 1992, 1995–1996, 1999 20.00 11.4 2.2 One of the best known Lithuanian basketball players, helped Lithuania win two Olympic bronze medals in 1992 and 1996, plus an European silver in 1995. He was a large contributor to the successful Portland Trail Blazers teams from 1995–2003. He was inducted into the FIBA and Naismith Hall of Fame. His son Domantas now plays U.S. college basketball at Gonzaga, and was picked for the Lithuanian squad at EuroBasket 2015. Arvydas and Domantas Sabonis are the first father-son duo in national team's history.
Šarūnas Marčiulionis Point guard
Shooting guard
1992, 1995–1996 20.15 4.1 6.4 One of the key players in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics and 1995 EuroBasket. He helped resurrect the Lithuania national team before the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Marčiulionis is the first NBA player in Lithuania history and is also famous for bringing Euro step move to the NBA. In 2014, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Rimas Kurtinaitis Small forward
Shooting guard
1992, 1995–1996 13.40 2.6 1.9 Outstanding three-point shooter. He is the only non-NBA player who participated in the NBA All-Star Three Point Contest.
Valdemaras Chomičius Point guard 1992, 1995 10.30 1.2 1.6 Soviet Union basketball player. He won most of his titles with Soviet Union, however he also helped Lithuania to win Silver medals in EuroBasket 1995 and Bronze medals in Summer Olympics 1992.
Gintaras Einikis Center 1992, 1995–2001 9.7 All-time most capped player (total 106 games). The only player who played in all three Lithuanian Olympic bronze medals winning squads (Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000). Gintaras also helped the team to win silver medals in Eurobasket 1995 and later participated in 3 more Eurobaskets (1997, 1999 and 2001). Einikis is famous for his trademark hook shot.
Artūras Karnišovas Small forward
Power forward
1992, 1995–1999 18.20 5.1 2.4 Notable for his appearance in the Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996 Olympics and 1995 European Championships. Later he participated in 1998 World Championship and 1999 European Championships. He averaged 18.2 points per game in all of his tournaments combined. He is current Lithuania national team all-time leader in points (total 1453 points).
Saulius Štombergas Small forward
Power forward
1995–2001, 2003–2004 10.9 3.2 1.5 One of the best three-point shooters in Lithuania basketball history. He also was team captain in EuroBasket 2003 where Lithuania became the European champion for the third time in the history.
Mindaugas Žukauskas Small forward
Power forward
1996, 1998–1999, 2001, 2003–2006 5.3 2.3 1.3 A long time Lithuania national basketball team captain, known for his aggressive defense.
Eurelijus Žukauskas Center 1996–2001, 2003–2004 5.9 4.0 0.5 Outstanding defender and shot blocker. Won a gold medal for Lithuania at EuroBasket 2003, and was also part of the Žalgiris team that were 1999 Euroleague champions.
Šarūnas Jasikevičius Point guard 1997–2001, 2003–2004, 2007–2008, 2011–2012 10.0 2.3 4.9 One of the most famous Lithuania players in the history. He led Lithuania to its third gold medal in EuroBasket 2003, being named MVP of that tournament. He also won a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympics, and led Lithuania in a notable win against Team USA in 2004 Summer Olympics, scoring 28 points (7/12 three-pointers). In 2015, Jasikevičius was named as one of the Euroleague legends.
Rimantas Kaukėnas Shooting guard 2001, 2007-2008, 2011-2012 9.5 2 1.6 Notable for his scoring ability. One of the key players in EuroBasket 2007. Kaukėnas number 13 was retired by Montepaschi Siena in 2009.
Ramūnas Šiškauskas Point guard
Shooting guard
Small forward
2000–2001, 2003–2005, 2007–2008 12.9 3.2 2.1 A long time Lithuania national basketball team captain, nicknamed "Baltic Pippen" for his outstanding efficiency on court. In 2014, Šiškauskas was named as one of the Euroleague legends.
Darius Songaila Power forward
Center
2000-2001, 2003-2004, 2006–2007, 2011-2012 9.0 3.7 0.8 Long time NBA and Lithuania national team player. One of the key players in EuroBasket 2003.
Arvydas Macijauskas Shooting guard 2003–2004, 2006 15.1 2.7 1.5 Outstanding three-point shooter, earning the nickname "Kalashnikov", and one of the key players in EuroBasket 2003.
Kšyštof Lavrinovič Power forward
Center
2003–2009, 2011, 2013-2014 7.1 4.2 0.8 An all-around power forward noted for his efficiency on court. He and his twin brother Darjuš are the first Poles to represent Lithuania national team.
Robertas Javtokas Center 2001, 2004–2011, 2013, 2015 5.2 4 0.5 A long time Lithuania national basketball team captain notable for his efficient defense and devotion to the team, not quitting games despite pain and various injuries. Javtokas is also famous for a world dunking record, dunking into a 3.65 meter height basket in 2001.
Linas Kleiza Power forward 2006–2010, 2012-2013 13.0 5.6 1.1 Led the team in the 2010 World Championship and the 2012 Olympics. Kleiza is also the Lithuanian who scored the most points in an NBA game, with 41 in 2008.[281] In 2013, Kleiza signed with Fenerbahçe Ülker and became the most expensive player in Turkish Basketball League history,[282] as well as the best paid basketball player in that season's Euroleague.[283]
Mantas Kalnietis Point guard
Shooting guard
2006, 2009–2013 9.1 2.8 4.5 Led the team in EuroBasket 2013, and was tournament leader in assists for both that edition (5 per game), and the follow-up in 2015 (7.8 assists per game).
Jonas Mačiulis Small forward 2007, 2008–2010, 2012–2015 Led the team during the critical moments in EuroBasket 2015 and was included into the All-Tournament Team.
Jonas Valančiūnas Center 2011–2015 9.6 5.7 0.4 The first major star born in post-Soviet Lithuania. Before making his debut with the senior national team at 19, he led Lithuania youth basketball teams to three gold medals and was named MVP of all three tournaments. He's also the Lithuanian picked the highest on the NBA Draft, being fifth overall at the 2011 NBA Draft. The same year he debuted in Lithuania men's national team, being a key players in EuroBasket 2011. On August 20, 2015, Valančiūnas signed a record four-year $64 million deal with the Toronto Raptors and became the all-time best paid Lithuanian in history, outperforming Žydrūnas Ilgauskas' annual $14.625 million salary.[284]
Donatas Motiejūnas Power forward
Center
2013-2014 6.1 3.1 0.4 One of the highest ever NBA drafted Lithuanians, picked 20th overall in 2011 by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Before making debut in senior national team, Motiejūnas led Lithuania youth basketball teams to two silver medals and was named MVP of U-18 championship. Motiejūnas is notable for his versatility, agility and terrific post-game. Often nicknamed as "Captain hook".

Notable Lithuanians who never played for Lithuania national basketball team[edit]

There have been a few notable Lithuanians who never played for Lithuania national basketball team in FIBA-organized or Olympic tournaments due to various circumstances. Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic players were allowed to play for their nation in USSR tournaments, but not in FIBA-organized or Olympic Games as they represented Soviet Union in these tournaments.

Name Professional career Reason Remarks
Vytautas Kulakauskas 1944–1949 Soviet Union occupation EuroBasket 1947 champion with the Soviet Union.
Stepas Butautas 1944–1956 Soviet Union occupation Legendary Žalgiris and Lithuania player, coach. As part of the Soviet Union, won an Olympic silver medal in 1952 and three EuroBaskets in 1947, 1951, and 1953. He was named as one of FIBA's 50 Greatest Players.
Vincas Sercevičius 1944–1951 Nazi Germany, Soviet Union occupations Legendary Žalgiris player, two times USSR tournament champion. He was a peerless center, outstanding hook shots specialist with his both hands. Often nicknamed "second Lubinas". Although, he often suffered from the occupation terrors, which constantly complicated his playing career and his living. At these times, during the Nazi occupation, the Germans were catching the native youth and were carrying them for works in Germany. In 1943 during one of these raids, he run away from one of the Nazi officers, who shot at him five times. Unfortunately, he was unable to repeat that in 1945 when the promising basketball player was shipped to the Vorkuta mines by Russians. Following his return from Siberia, he was a Soviet Union national team candidate for four straight years. Though, Sercevičius never played for them because his history made the government blacklist him for international trips.[285]
Justinas Lagunavičius 1944–1957 Soviet Union occupation As part of the Soviet Union, won an Olympic silver medal in 1952 and three EuroBaskets in 1947, 1951, and 1953.
Kazimieras Petkevičius 1945–1962 Soviet Union occupation Legendary Žalgiris and Lithuania player, coach. Won Olympic silver medals twice in 1952 and 1956, was European champion in 1947, and won a EuroBasket bronze in 1955.
Algirdas Lauritėnas 1950–1963 Soviet Union occupation Olympic silver medalist in 1956, EuroBasket gold medalist twice (1953, 1957) and EuroBasket bronze medalist in 1955.
Stanislovas Stonkus 1950–1958 Soviet Union occupation Olympic silver medalist twice in 1952 and 1956, EuroBasket title in 1957 and bronze in 1955.
Modestas Paulauskas 1962–1976 Soviet Union occupation One of the greatest Lithuanian basketballers ever. Paulauskas was captain of the USSR team who won the Olympic gold in 1972, the World Championships of 1967 and 1974, and four EuroBaskets (1965, as the Most Valuable Player, 1967, 1969, 1971). Also got an Olympic bronze in 1968 and an European bronze medal in 1973. Named one of FIBA's 50 Greatest Players.
Gediminas Budnikas 1964–1973 Soviet Union occupation Notable Žalgiris big man, never represented Soviet Union and Žalgiris in foreign countries (except USSR members), as both of his parents were members of the armed anti-Soviet resistance movement.[286]
Algirdas Linkevičius 1968–1982 Soviet Union occupation Outstanding three-pointers specialist, legendary Žalgiris player. Linkevičius played 81 games for Lithuania national team, but only in USSR-organized tournaments. Was denied entry in the Soviet Union team for being born in Siberia, where his parents were deported.[287]
Algimantas Pavilonis 1973–1985 Soviet Union occupation Legendary Statyba player. LKF president in 1994-2001.[288]
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas 1994–2011 Personal circumstances, injuries One of the most successful Lithuanian NBA players, being the first Lithuanian to participate in NBA All-Star game (twice, 2003, 2005). Despite impressive NBA career, he never played for the Lithuanian national team in official tournaments due to various personal circumstances or injuries. Closest approach was in 2008, when Ilgauskas showed interest in playing the Olympics and the LKF even raised the US$22 million dollars insurance requested by the Cleveland Cavaliers,[289] but the Cavaliers still vetoed due to his injuries history.[152] His #11 jersey was retired by the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 8, 2014, being only the third European to be honored this way.[290]

Notable Lithuanian descent basketball players[edit]

Due to various reasons (especially because of the World Wars) many Lithuanians left their country. As a result of this, there is a group of notable basketball players of Lithuanian descent. Some of them retired before Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania in 1990 or never been in Lithuania and have nothing common with the Lithuania national basketball team, however a few of them were actually interested in playing for the Lithuanian squad. Yet none of them actually did.

Name Professional career Position Remarks
Matt Guokas, Sr.[291] 1938–1947 Shooting guard
Small forward
Former ABL and BAA (a precursor to the NBA) player. BAA champion in 1947. Guokas and his son, Matt Jr., were the first father-son duo to win NBA championships as players.
Tony Kaseta  ?–? Center Former PBLA and NBL player.
Rick Barry[292] 1965–1980 Small forward NBA champion in 1975, being chosen as Finals MVP. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987, named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996, eight time NBA All-Star, and four times ABA All-Star Game. Barry is the only player to lead the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), ABA and NBA in scoring for an individual season. His 30.5 points-per-game average in the ABA stands as the highest career total for a player in any professional basketball league.
Matt Guokas 1966–1976 Shooting guard
Small forward
Former NBA player. NBA champion in 1967. Son of Matt Guokas, Sr.
Joe Arlauckas[293] 1987–2000 Power forward Former NBA player. Euroleague champion in 1995, leading league's scorer in 1996. Despite being born in the Rochester, New York, Arlauckas was interested in playing for the Lithuanian squad during his tenure with Real Madrid together with Sabonis and Kurtinaitis, however he never did that because the basketball citizenship rules from the period required three years playing in Lithuania.[294]
Chuck Aleksinas[295] 1983–1990 Center NCAA champion. Former NBA player. Never been a part of the Lithuania national team due to the same basketball citizenship rule issue as Arlauckas and Rautins.
Leo Rautins[296] 1983–1993 Small forward Former NBA player. Was unable to be a part of the Lithuanian squad due to the same citizenship rule violation as Arlauckas and Aleksinas. In 2014, Rautins said: "I still have Spanish newspaper with picture of me, Joe Arlauckas and Chuck Aleksinas - foreign-born Lithuanians who could have been in Lithuanian roster if not citizenship affairs".[297]
Jon Barry 1992–2006 Shooting guard Former NBA player. Son of Rick Barry.
Brent Barry 1995–2009 Guard Former NBA player. NBA champion in 2005 and 2007. Son of Rick Barry.
Drew Barry 1996–2003 Shooting guard Former NBA player. Son of Rick Barry.
Nik Stauskas 2014–present Shooting guard Current NBA player, selected eighth overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2014 NBA draft. Has three Lithuanian grandparents, two of which emigrated to Canada. Nik has a middle name and surname attended the Lithuanian school in Toronto and he is able to understand the Lithuanian language as his Lithuanian grandparents communicates with him only in that.[298] After joining the NCAA in 2013, Stauskas stated that would consider the possibility to represent Lithuania,[299] but went on to play for his birth country, Canada.[300]
Antanas Sireika managed the team who won the European title in 2003.

Coaching staff[edit]

Manager Lithuania career Played Won Lost Win % Honours
Garastas, VladasVladas Garastas 1992–1997 59 45 14 76.27 Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svgSilver medal europe.svg 2 Bronze medals: Olympic Games (1992, 1996), Silver medal: EuroBasket 1995
Kazlauskas, JonasJonas Kazlauskas
(first tenure)
1997–2001 49 32 17 65.31 Bronze medal.svg Bronze medal: Olympic Games 2000
Sireika, AntanasAntanas Sireika 2001-2006 42 33 9 78.58 Gold medal europe.svg Gold medal: EuroBasket 2003
Butautas, RamūnasRamūnas Butautas 2007–2009 23 14 9 60.87 Bronze medal.svg Bronze medal: EuroBasket 2007
Kemzūra, Kęstutis Kęstutis Kemzūra 2009–2012 30 21 9 70.00 Bronze medal world centered-2.svg Bronze medal: World Championship 2010
Jonas Kazlauskas
(second tenure)
2012– 29 21 8 72.41 Silver medal europe.svg Silver medal europe.svg 2 Silver medal: EuroBasket (2013, 2015)
Last updated: 2015-09-20. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Notable assistant coaches include:

  • Javier Imbroda, Spanish, helped Lithuania earn its first medal shortly after independence at Barcelona 1992 Olympics.[301]
  • Donnie Nelson, American, son of Hall of Famer coach Don Nelson, helped Lithuania's funding for Barcelona 1992 and became assistant coach for many years later. After Lithuania nearly upset the USA at Sydney 2000, Nelson declared that he would never help Lithuania in matches against USA.[302]
  • Juozas Petkevičius been with Lithuania national basketball team in most of the competitions after restoring Lithuania independence. Commonly called Juozukas, he possess great relations with fans, players, staff members and is widely regarded as the mascot of the team.[303]

Past rosters[edit]

1937 EuroBasket: finished 1st among 8 teams

Monument to basketball in Vilnius

Artūras Andrulis, Leonas Baltrūnas, Pranas Talzūnas, Leopoldas Kepalas, Feliksas Kriaučiūnas, Pranas Mažeika, Eugenijus Nikolskis, Leonas Petrauskas, Zenonas Puzinauskas, Stasys Šačkus, Juozas Žukas, Česlovas Daukša (Coach: Feliksas Kriaučiūnas)

1939 EuroBasket: finished 1st among 8 teams

Pranas Lubinas, Mykolas Ruzgys, Leonas Baltrūnas, Artūras Andrulis, Juozas Jurgėla, Pranas Mažeika, Vytautas Norkus, Vytautas Budriūnas, Zenonas Puzinauskas, Feliksas Kriaučiūnas, Vytautas Lesčinskas, Eugenijus Nikolskis, Leonas Petrauskas, Mindaugas Šliūpas (Coach: Pranas Lubinas)

1992 Olympic Games: finished 3rd among 12 teams

Arvydas Sabonis, Šarunas Marčiulionis, Valdemaras Chomičius, Rimas Kurtinaitis, Sergėjus Jovaiša, Artūras Karnišovas, Gintaras Einikis, Arūnas Visockas, Darius Dimavičius, Romanas Brazdauskis, Gintaras Krapikas, Alvydas Pazdrazdis (Coach: Vladas Garastas)

1993 EuroBasket: did not qualify

1994 World Championship: did not participate

1995 EuroBasket: finished 2nd among 14 teams

Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Artūras Karnišovas, Rimas Kurtinaitis, Valdemaras Chomičius, Gintaras Einikis, Arūnas Visockas, Gintaras Krapikas, Saulius Štombergas, Mindaugas Timinskas, Darius Lukminas, Gvidonas Markevičius (Coach: Vladas Garastas)

1996 Olympic Games: finished 3rd among 12 teams

Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Artūras Karnišovas, Rimas Kurtinaitis, Saulius Štombergas, Gintaras Einikis, Darius Lukminas, Rytis Vaišvila, Tomas Pačėsas, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Andrius Jurkūnas, Mindaugas Žukauskas (Coach: Vladas Garastas)

1997 EuroBasket: finished 6th among 16 teams

Gintaras Einikis, Virginijus Praškevičius, Dainius Adomaitis, Artūras Karnišovas, Saulius Štombergas, Darius Maskoliūnas, Kęstutis Šeštokas, Andrius Jurkūnas, Darius Lukminas, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Mindaugas Timinskas, Eurelijus Žukauskas (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

1998 World Championship: finished 7th among 16 teams

Artūras Karnišovas, Saulius Štombergas, Gintaras Einikis, Virginijus Praškevičius, Tomas Masiulis, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Dainius Adomaitis, Darius Maskoliūnas, Darius Lukminas, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Tomas Pačėsas (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

1999 EuroBasket: finished 5th among 16 teams

Arvydas Sabonis, Artūras Karnišovas, Saulius Štombergas, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Gintaras Einikis, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Virginijus Praškevičius, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Tomas Masiulis, Dainius Adomaitis, Darius Maskoliūnas, Kęstutis Marčiulionis (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

2000 Olympic Games: finished 3rd among 12 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Saulius Štombergas, Mindaugas Timinskas, Gintaras Einikis, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Tomas Masiulis, Dainius Adomaitis, Darius Maskoliūnas]], Andrius Giedraitis, Kestutis Marciulionis (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

2001 EuroBasket: finished 9-12th among 16 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Saulius Štombergas, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Gintaras Einikis, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Mindaugas Timinskas, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Robertas Javtokas, Donatas Slanina, Andrius Jurkūnas (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

2003 EuroBasket: finished 1st among 16 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Arvydas Macijauskas, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Saulius Štombergas, Darius Songaila, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Donatas Slanina, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Virginijus Praškevičius, Dainius Šalenga, Giedrius Gustas (Coach: Antanas Sireika)

2004 Olympic Games: finished 4th among 12 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Arvydas Macijauskas, Saulius Štombergas, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Eurelijus Žukauskas, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Dainius Šalenga, Robertas Javtokas, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Donatas Slanina, Vidas Ginevičius (Coach: Antanas Sireika)

2005 EuroBasket: finished 5th among 16 teams

Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Robertas Javtokas, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Simas Jasaitis, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Vidas Ginevicius, Paulius Jankūnas, Simonas Serapinas, Giedrius Gustas, Darius Šilinskis, Mindaugas Lukauskis (Coach: Antanas Sireika)

2006 World Championship: finished 7th among 24 teams

Arvydas Macijauskas, Darius Songaila, Robertas Javtokas, Simas Jasaitis, Mindaugas Žukauskas, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Linas Kleiza, Paulius Jankūnas, Giedrius Gustas, Tomas Delininkaitis, Mantas Kalnietis (Coach: Antanas Sireika)

2007 EuroBasket: finished 3rd among 16 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Simas Jasaitis, Darius Songaila, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Linas Kleiza, Robertas Javtokas, Jonas Mačiulis, Paulius Jankūnas, Giedrius Gustas (Coach: Ramūnas Butautas)

2008 Olympic Games: finished 4th among 12 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Simas Jasaitis, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Linas Kleiza, Robertas Javtokas, Jonas Mačiulis, Mindaugas Lukauskis, Marius Prekevičius, Marijonas Petravičius (Coach: Ramūnas Butautas)

2009 EuroBasket: finished 11th among 16 teams

Marijonas Petravičius, Linas Kleiza, Simas Jasaitis, Robertas Javtokas, Tomas Delininkaitis, Artūras Jomantas, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Mantas Kalnietis, Jonas Mačiulis, Mindaugas Lukauskis, Andrius Mažutis (Coach: Ramūnas Butautas)

2010 World Championship: finished 3rd among 24 teams

Linas Kleiza, Mantas Kalnietis, Martynas Pocius, Jonas Mačiulis, Simas Jasaitis, Tomas Delininkaitis, Paulius Jankūnas, Martynas Gecevičius, Tadas Klimavičius, Robertas Javtokas, Martynas Andriuškevičius, Renaldas Seibutis (Coach: Kęstutis Kemzūra)

2011 EuroBasket: finished 5th among 24 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Darius Songaila, Mantas Kalnietis, Martynas Pocius, Simas Jasaitis, Tomas Delininkaitis, Paulius Jankūnas, Robertas Javtokas, Marijonas Petravičius, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Jonas Valančiūnas (Coach: Kęstutis Kemzūra)

2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament qualified with 2 other teams among 12 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Mantas Kalnietis, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Tomas Delininkaitis, Deividas Dulkys, Jonas Mačiulis, Martynas Pocius, Linas Kleiza, Paulius Jankūnas, Darius Songaila, Robertas Javtokas, Jonas Valančiūnas (Coach: Kęstutis Kemzūra)

2012 Olympic Games finished 5–8th among 12 teams

Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Linas Kleiza, Rimantas Kaukėnas, Jonas Mačiulis, Mantas Kalnietis, Martynas Pocius, Simas Jasaitis, Paulius Jankūnas, Renaldas Seibutis, Darius Songaila, Antanas Kavaliauskas, Jonas Valančiūnas (Coach: Kęstutis Kemzūra)

2013 EuroBasket: finished 2nd among 24 teams

Donatas Motiejūnas, Jonas Valančiūnas, Linas Kleiza, Mantas Kalnietis, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Jonas Mačiulis, Tomas Delininkaitis, Renaldas Seibutis, Martynas Pocius, Robertas Javtokas (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

2014 FIBA World Cup: finished 4th among 24 teams

Jonas Valančiūnas, Darjuš Lavrinovič, Donatas Motiejūnas, Kšyštof Lavrinovič, Paulius Jankūnas, Jonas Mačiulis, Simas Jasaitis, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Martynas Pocius, Renaldas Seibutis, Adas Juškevičius, Šarūnas Vasiliauskas (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

2015 EuroBasket: finished 2nd among 24 teams

Mantas Kalnietis, Deividas Gailius, Jonas Mačiulis, Renaldas Seibutis, Domantas Sabonis, Antanas Kavaliauskas, Paulius Jankūnas, Jonas Valančiūnas, Robertas Javtokas, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Artūras Milaknis, Lukas Lekavičius (Coach: Jonas Kazlauskas)

Lithuanian fans displaying the national and historical Vytis flags during EuroBasket 2011.

Supporters[edit]

The popularity of basketball in Lithuania has many international writers to compare the sport to a religion in the country.[175][304] Sports Illustrated reporter Luke Winn added that despite the country's small population of 3.2 million, Lithuania ranked fifth at the 2011 FIBA World Rankings (as of 2015, Lithuania is third), behind the much larger United States (313 million), Spain (47 million), Argentina (40 million) and Greece (11 million).[304] The devotion to the team often brings thousands of Lithuanians to travel in their support, no matter what continent.[170] The fans dress and paint themselves in the national colors of yellow, green and red, and spend the games cheering and chanting.[305] Lithuanians frequently display huge flags, usually the national one or the historical Vytis variant.[306][307] Furthermore, sometimes the modern flag at the center is being embellished with the white color names (often shortened) or the surnames of the most notable national team members, who represents the team at that competition.

Lithuanian fans in Žalgiris Arena.

The Lithuanian basketball fans are famous for energetically and unanimously singing the national anthem before all the national team games. Most frequently, they loudly shout the last anthem lines, most notably the "Vardan tos, Lietuvos. Vienybė težydi!" (English: For the sake of this land. We shall stand together) part.[308] Other major chants are "LIE-TU-VA" (country's name in Lithuanian) and singing of the popular Lithuanian folk daina "Ant kalno mūrai" (English: Masonries on the hill).[309] When there is no doubt in victory anymore during the end of the game, the Lithuanian fans begins to chant "Mes laimėjom!" (English: We are victorious).[310]

Lithuanian fans with instruments.

Tomas Balaišis (nicknamed as Sėkla) is one of the primary Lithuania national basketball team fans group leader, constantly supporting it in various competitions for years (mostly decorated with drums).[311]

Often regarded as Lithuanian sport (especially basketball) anthem

Problems playing this file? See media help.

Ever since its induction during the coverage of the 2000 Sydney Olympics, "Trys Milijonai" became the unnofficial Lithuania national basketball team song. The musical theme was used again during the Eurobasket, which made the song a runaway hit and a de facto national basketball anthem. When Lithuania won the European basketball championship in 2003, the song was played right after the final match with Spain. By the 2004 Athens Olympics, the song has become the unofficial Lithuanian Olympic team anthem and by some, is regarded as highly as the unofficial Lithuanian national sports (especially basketball) anthem. Later on, the song was played after almost every match the Lithuania national team played and during its meeting ceremonies after the successful performances.

Uniforms and kit suppliers[edit]

The first basketball uniforms worn by Lithuania's national team in the 1930s had two variants: light ones with white T-shirts and dark green shorts, and dark ones with dark green shirts and shorts. Both of these variants had at the front of the shirts "LIETUVA" (the country's name written in the native language) and a red circle with the "Vytis" coat of arms, in the spot where nowadays such jerseys have sponsor logos.

After the team was restored following Lithuania's return as an independent country in 1991, the jerseys used the same color schemes from the 1930s. Only this time, the neck, shoulders and sides had a three lined piping in the national flag's colors. The light variant had Lietuva in red, while the dark one had the country's name in white. It was manufactured by Reebok.[312] This design remained until 1997.

In 1997 Nike replaced Reebok as Lithuania's uniform supplier, a post it retains as of 2015.[313] This led to a new design of the jerseys, with the piping being white in the green jerseys and green in the white ones. The jerseys remained that way until the 2000 Summer Olympics. There another update changed the piping to yellow in the green jerseys, moved the "Lietuva" to the stomach, below a a circle with the player's number, and added a small Lithuanian flag on the left shoulder.

Another change was made in 2003, with a simpler design making the player number loose on the left shoulder, "Lietuva" in a smaller font, and no national flag. These probably were the most simplified Lithuanian uniforms ever, but became iconic in the country for being the jerseys of the EuroBasket title.[314]

Lithuanians wearing the Nike produced jerseys in 2010.

In 2004, major updates were done, enlarging the country name and returning the flag, while changing the piping to yellow-red in the green jerseys and yellow-green in the white ones. On the dark variant "Lietuva" was in yellow, while on the light variant it was written in green. This color scheme remained until 2010, once red was dropped from the piping. This made the Lithuanian jersey similar to Brazil's, aside from the different shades of green. Red now only appears on the Nike logo and the Lithuanian flag. In 2014, the side piping had its final change, with the addition of yellow-green squares.[315] Since 2010, the back of the jersey has an imprint. The first one was a basketball net on both jerseys,[316] and since 2012 the white jersey has the Vytis symbol.[317].[318][319]

General sponsors[edit]

The general sponsor of Lithuania men's national basketball team is the biggest team's financial supporter, and is given a proeminent spot on the jersey, under the text "LIETUVA". The longest-tenured sponsor is the Švyturys brewery, who has designated over 15 million LTL per 15 years for basketball, and was featured in the jersey front from 2005 to 2008.[320] That year, given EuroBasket 2009 was hosted by Poland, Polish Orlen oil refiner and petrol retailer made a deal to become the general sponsor.[321] Following it, Antanas Guoga betting company TonyBet wished to replace it. At first Lithuanian laws only allowed the sponsoring without featuring the logo due to such companies being forbidden to be advertised,[322] but eventually TonyBet's logo was included.[323] Guoga also paid a large share of the required application fee of €500,000 for the 2010 World Championship wild-card.[324] In 2011 TP Engineering company became the Lithuanian team's general sponsor,[325] being replaced again by TonyBet in 2013.[326] In 2014, Vičiūnai Group signed a two-year deal to become the primary sponsor.[327]


General sponsors by competition:
  • EuroBasket 1937: None
  • EuroBasket 1939: None
  • 1992 Summer Olympics: Grateful Dead (logo not printed)
  • EuroBasket 1995 – Summer Olympics 2004: None
  • EuroBasket 2005: Švyturys
  • 2006 World Championship: Švyturys
  • EuroBasket 2007: Švyturys
  • 2008 Summer Olympics: Švyturys
  • EuroBasket 2009: Orlen
  • 2010 World Championship: TonyBet
  • EuroBasket 2011: TP Engineering
  • 2012 Summer Olympics: None
  • EuroBasket 2013: TonyBet
  • 2014 World Championship: Vičiūnai Group
  • EuroBasket 2015: Vičiūnai Group

Cultural depictions[edit]

Literature[edit]

There are many books describing the glorious Lithuanian basketball history. Some of them are freely accessible to everyone online at the official publishers websites. The most notable books are such:

  • Stanislovas Stonkus "Krepšinio kelias į Lietuvą". The book describes the very first steps of basketball in Lithuania, includes many historic images of the first Lithuanian basketball games and teams. Part of the book is freely accessible online.[328]
  • Vidas Mačiulis and Vytautas Gudelis "Halė, kurioje žaidė Lubinas ir Sabonis". It mostly focuses on the inter-war Lithuanian basketball: describes Kaunas Sports Hall history, EuroBasket 1937 and EuroBasket 1939. Although, it also includes basketball history after the country's occupation in 1940.
  • Skirmantas Leonas Karalevičius "Krepšinio pilnaties sapnas". The book's author began collecting the Lithuanian and the international newspapers scraps about sport in 1946. Consequently, it includes many of them. The book also includes the memorable document in which the Lithuania national team, following its victory in EuroBasket 1939, was invited into the USA to play the friendly games there. Though, it never happened due to the war.[329][330]
  • Skirmantas Leonas Karalevičius "XX a. Lietuvos krepšinio legenda".
  • Algimantas Bertašius and Stanislovas Stonkus "Su Lietuvos vardu per Europą, per pasaulį". The book describes Lithuanian basketball road from 1925 to 2013. Its fragments are freely accessible online at the official Alma littera website.[331] Complete first version of the book, released in 2009, is freely available to download at the official LKF website.[332] The updated printed version, released in 2013, costs around 35 .

Documentaries[edit]

There are several documentaries about the national team, the most notable one being The Other Dream Team, released in 2013 and focusing on 1992 Barcelona Olympic team. Mes už... Lietuvą, about the Lithuanian team during the EuroBasket 2011 at home, also gained wide approval in Lithuania. Lietuvos Krepšinis 1920–2004 features the most important events and players in Lithuanian basketball history.

Video games[edit]

Lithuania's national basketball team has been featured thrice in video games depicting international basketball. The first was in 1992, as Sega's Team USA Basketball for the Sega Mega Drive/Sega Genesis featured all teams from that year's Olympic tournament.[333] Years later, Eletronic Arts included Lithuania among various FIBA squads featured in NBA Live 09 (2008) and NBA Live 10 (2009).[334][335]

FIBA World Rankings[edit]

Lithuania men's national basketball team always was one of the major powers in the international games. It won EuroBasket the most times in its history (calculating still existing nations). Not surprisingly, it always was one of the top teams in the FIBA World Rankings.

Year Place Points Change
2006 5th 460 N/A
2007 5th 486 Steady
2008 6th 411 Decrease 1
2009 6th 374 Steady
2010 5th 532 Increase 1
2011 5th 426 Steady
2012 5th 406 Steady
2013 4th 432 Increase 1
2014 4th 447 Steady
2015 3rd 457 Increase 1

Statistics[edit]

Blocks[edit]

Rank Name Blocks
1 Eurelijus Žukauskas 58
2 Jonas Valančiūnas 51
3 Robertas Javtokas 50
4 Darjuš Lavrinovič 35
5 Arvydas Sabonis 30
Last updated: 2015-09-20. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

All time points per game (PPG)[edit]

Only players with significant amount of games played or points scored.

Rank Name NT career Games played Total points PPG Most points Opponent Result Date Tournament Venue
1 Šarūnas Marčiulionis 1992–1996 34 687 20.24 38  Germany 100:84 1992-07-01 Olympic Qualification Zaragoza, Spain
2 Arvydas Sabonis 1992–1999 50 995 19.90 33  CIS

 Croatia


 Italy


 Russia

116:79

99:89


100:87


82:71

1992-06-26

1992-06-29


1992-07-05


1995-06-30

Olympic Qualification

Olympic Qualification


Olympic Qualification


EuroBasket 1995

Badajoz, Spain

Zaragoza, Spain


Zaragoza, Spain


Athens, Greece

3 Artūras Karnišovas 1992–1999 80 1466 18.33 43  Austria 116:94 1993-06-27 EuroBasket Qualification 1995 Vienna, Austria
4 Arvydas Macijauskas 2002–2006 33 497 15.06 32  China 95:75 2004-08-26 Olympic Games 2004 Athens, Greece
5 Rimas Kurtinaitis 1992–1997 45 604 13.42 31  China 112:75 1992-07-26 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
6 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 1999–2008 60 772 12.86 30  Russia 74:86 2007-09-15 EuroBasket 2007 Madrid, Spain
7 Linas Kleiza 2006– 62 785 12.66 33  Serbia 99:88 2010-09-12 World Championship 2010 Istanbul, Turkey
8 Saulius Štombergas 1993–2004 99 1084 10.95 28  Australia

 Germany

93:71

99:89

2000-10-01

2003-09-07

Olympic Games 2000

EuroBasket 2003

Sydney, Australia

Norrköping, Sweden

9 Valdemaras Chomičius 1992–1995 37 369 9.97 30  Netherlands 93:85 1993-06-22 EuroBasket Qualification 1995 Vienna, Austria
10 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 1997–2012 104 1031 9.91 28  United States 94:90 2004-08-21 Olympic Games 2004 Athens, Greece
11 Jonas Valančiūnas 2011- 48 470 9.79 26  Italy 95:85 2015-09-16 EuroBasket 2015 Lille, France
12 Gintaras Einikis 1992–2002 106 1024 9.66 27  Poland

 France

108:96

94:88

1995-10-11

1997-06-26

EuroBasket Qualification 1997

EuroBasket 1997

Vilnius, Lithuania

Girona, Spain

13 Rimantas Kaukėnas 2001-2012 47 443 9.46 22  Italy 79:74 2007-09-08 EuroBasket 2007 Madrid, Spain
14 Mantas Kalnietis 2006- 62 586 9.45 19  Poland

 Serbia


 France

97:77

99:89


66:80

2011-09-01

2011-09-07


2013-09-22

EuroBasket 2011

EuroBasket 2011


EuroBasket 2013

Panevėžys, Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania


Ljubliana, Slovenia

15 Darius Songaila 2000–2012 68 630 9.26 20  Croatia 74:72 2007-09-14 EuroBasket 2007 Madrid, Spain
16 Darius Lukminas 1994–1999 50 407 8.14 25  Belgium

 Sweden

83:85

108:87

1995-11-15

1996-12-18

EuroBasket Qualification 1997

EuroBasket Qualification 1997

Aalst, Belgium

Vilnius, Lithuania

17 Darjuš Lavrinovič 2005– 53 422 7.96 18  Germany 77:62 2006-09-03 World Championship 2006 Saitama, Japan
18 Martynas Pocius 2010– 49 387 7.90 16  Argentina 104:85 2010-09-09 World Championship 2010 Istanbul, Turkey
19 Jonas Mačiulis 2007- 67 515 7.69 34  Georgia 85:81 2015-09-13 EuroBasket 2015 Lille, France
20 Virginijus Praškevičius 1995-2003 41 298 7.27 25  Iceland 96:71 1998-02-28 EuroBasket Qualification 1999 Vilnius, Lithuania
Last updated: 2015-09-20. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Players records[edit]

Statistic Record Player Opponent Result Date Tournament Venue
Points 43 Artūras Karnišovas  Austria 116:94 27 June 1993 EuroBasket Qualification 1995 Vienna, Austria
Minutes 48(2OT) Arvydas Sabonis  Croatia 83:81 20 July 1996 Olympic Games 1996 Atlanta, USA
2-Pt Made 14 Linas Kleiza  China 78:67 7 September 2010 World Cup 2010 Istanbul, Turkey
3-Pt Made 7 Šarūnas Jasikevičius

Arvydas Macijauskas

United States United States

United States United States

94:90

96:104

21 August 2004

28 August 2004

Olympic Games 2004

Olympic Games 2004

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece

FT Made 17 Šarūnas Marčiulionis  Germany 100:84 1 July 1992 Olympic Qualification 1992 Zaragoza, Spain
2-Pt % 100 (8/8) Artūras Karnišovas

Jonas Valančiūnas

  Switzerland

 Mexico

118:62

87:74

26 February 1997

30 August 2014

EuroBasket Qualification 1997

World Cup 2014

Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Gran Canaria, Spain

3-Pt % 100 (4/4) Šarūnas Marčiulionis

Saulius Štombergas


Arvydas Macijauskas


Kšyštof Lavrinovič


Simas Jasaitis


Jonas Mačiulis

 Greece

 Estonia


 China


 Czech Republic


 Turkey


 Mexico

89:73

91:60


95:75


95:75


76:84


87:74

22 June 1995

12 February 1998


26 August 2004


4 September 2007


7 September 2009


30 August 2014

EuroBasket 1995

EuroBasket Qualification 1999


Olympic Games 2004


EuroBasket 2007


EuroBasket 2009


World Cup 2014

Athens, Greece

Tallinn, Estonia


Athens, Greece


Mallorca, Spain


Wroclaw,Poland


Gran Canaria, Spain

FT % 100 (12/12) Artūras Karnišovas  Poland

 Estonia

108:96

87:77

11 October 1995

3 December 1997

EuroBasket Qualification 1997

EuroBasket Qualification 1999

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania

Total Rebounds 23 Arvydas Sabonis  Greece 89:73 22 June 1995 EuroBasket 1995 Athens, Greece
Assists 13 Mantas Kalnietis  Belgium 74:76 7 September 2015 EuroBasket 2015 Riga, Latvia
Steals 8 Rimas Kurtinaitis  Venezuela 87:79 27 July 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Blocks 5 Arvydas Sabonis

Eurelijus Žukauskas


Jonas Valančiūnas

 China

 Turkey


 Croatia

112:75

102:99


77:62

26 July 1992

25 January 2003


20 September 2013

Olympic Games 1992

EuroBasket Qualification 2003


EuroBasket 2013

Barcelona, Spain

Istanbul,Turkey


Lubljana, Slovenia

Last updated: 2015-09-20 Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Players medal leaders[edit]

Player Lithuania career Gold Silver Bronze Total (min. 3 medals)
Einikis, GintarasGintaras Einikis 1992–2002 - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 4
Štombergas, SauliusSaulius Štombergas 1993–2004 Gold medal europe.svg Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 4
Javtokas, RobertasRobertas Javtokas 2001– - Silver medal europe.svgSilver medal europe.svg Bronze medal europe.svgBronze medal world centered-2.svg 4
Mačiulis, JonasJonas Mačiulis 2007– - Silver medal europe.svgSilver medal europe.svg Bronze medal europe.svgBronze medal world centered-2.svg 4
Marčiulionis, ŠarūnasŠarūnas Marčiulionis 1992–1996 - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 3
Kurtinaitis, RimasRimas Kurtinaitis 1992–1997 - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 3
Karnišovas, ArtūrasArtūras Karnišovas 1992–1999 - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 3
Sabonis, ArvydasArvydas Sabonis 1992–1999 - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 3
Žukauskas, EurelijusEurelijus Žukauskas 1996–2004 Gold medal europe.svg - Bronze medal.svgBronze medal.svg 3
Šiškauskas, RamūnasRamūnas Šiškauskas 1999–2008 Gold medal europe.svg - Bronze medal.svgBronze medal europe.svg 3
Jasikevičius, ŠarūnasŠarūnas Jasikevičius 1997–2012 Gold medal europe.svg - Bronze medal.svgBronze medal europe.svg 3
Songaila, DariusDarius Songaila 2000–2012 Gold medal europe.svg - Bronze medal.svgBronze medal europe.svg 3
Lavrinovič, KšyštofKšyštof Lavrinovič 2003–2014 Gold medal europe.svg Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal europe.svg 3
Jankūnas, PauliusPaulius Jankūnas 2005– - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal europe.svgBronze medal world centered-2.svg 3
Kleiza, LinasLinas Kleiza 2006– - Silver medal europe.svg Bronze medal europe.svgBronze medal world centered-2.svg 3
Kalnietis, MantasMantas Kalnietis 2006– - Silver medal europe.svgSilver medal europe.svg Bronze medal world centered-2.svg 3
Seibutis, RenaldasRenaldas Seibutis 2010– - Silver medal europe.svgSilver medal europe.svg Bronze medal world centered-2.svg 3

Team records[edit]

Statistic Record Opponent Result Date Tournament Venue
Biggest victory 103  Finland 112:9 27 May 1939 EuroBasket 1939 Kaunas, Lithuania
Biggest defeat 51 United States United States 75:126 6 August 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Most Points Scored 118   Switzerland 118:62 26 February 1997 EuroBasket Qualification 1997 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Lowest total points 20  Estonia 20:15 4 May 1937 EuroBasket 1937 Riga, Latvia
Most offensive points 126 United States United States 75:126 6 August 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Lowest points allowed 7  Egypt 21:7 5 May 1937 EuroBasket 1937 Riga, Latvia
Total Rebounds 54  Korea 97:56 29 July 1998 World Championship 1998 Athens, Greece
Assists 32  Russia 103:72 3 July 1999 EuroBasket 1999 Paris, France
Steals 23  Puerto Rico 104:91 29 July 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Blocks 8  Bulgaria

 Israel

117:72

94:62

23 November 2002

6 September 2003

EuroBasket Qualification 2003

EuroBasket 2003

Vilnius, Lithuania

Norrköping, Sweden

Free throws made 42  Brazil 114:96 4 August 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Free throw % 100(13/13)  China 94:68 20 August 2008 Olympic Games 2008 Beijing, China
2-pointers made 40  Latvia 108:65 17 November 1993 EuroBasket Qualification 1995 Kaunas, Lithuania
2-point % 80(36/45)   Switzerland 118:62 26 February 1997 EuroBasket Qualification 1997 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
3-pointers made 21  United States 96:104 28 August 2004 Olympic Games 2004 Athens, Greece
3-point % 80(8/10)  China 112:75 26 July 1992 Olympic Games 1992 Barcelona, Spain
Last updated: 2015-09-20. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Lithuanian players in the NBA[edit]

All-time team record[edit]

The following table shows Lithuania's all-time official FIBA international record, correct as of 20 September 2015.

Lithuania-Argentina in 2010
Lithuania-United States in 2010
Lithuania-Spain in 2010
Lithuania-Greece in 2011
Lithuania-Iceland in 2008
Lithuania-Hungary in 1939
Opponents Played Won Lost  % Won Biggest Victory Biggest Defeat
 Angola 4 4 0 100% +36 (85:49) -
 Argentina 8 5 3 60% +19 (104:85) -23 (79:102)
 Australia 8 5 3 63% +21 (78:57) -31 (75:106)
 Austria 1 1 0 100% +22 (116:94) -
 Belarus 1 0 1 0% - -8 (80-88)
 Belgium 4 2 2 50% +23 (75:52) -2 (83:85),(74:76)
 Bosnia and Herzegovina 3 1 2 33% +30 (87:57) -6 (72:78)
 Brazil 3 3 0 100% +18 (114:96) -
 Bulgaria 4 4 0 100% +45 (117:72) -
 CIS 3 2 1 67% +37 (116:79) -12 (80:92)
 Canada 1 1 0 100% +2 (70:68) -
 China 6 6 0 100% +61 (116:55) -
 Croatia 10 9 1 90% +18 (85:67) -8 (64:72)
 Czech Republic 4 3 1 75% +20 (95:75) -16 (62:78)
 Dominican Republic 1 1 0 100% +26 (109:83) -
 Egypt 1 1 0 100% +14 (21:7) -
 Estonia 8 8 0 100% +31 (91:60) -
 Finland 1 1 0 100% +103 (112:9) -
 France 15 7 8 47% +30 (48:18) -16 (47:63)
 Great Britain 2 2 0 100% +16 (87:71) -
 Georgia 1 1 0 100% +4 (85:81) -
 Germany 7 7 0 100% +22 (93:71) -
 Greece 8 6 2 75% +33 (99:66) -7 (66:73)
 Hungary 2 2 0 100% +64 (79:15) -
 Iceland 3 3 0 100% +46 (94:48) -
 Iran 1 1 0 100% +32 (99:67) -
 Israel 5 5 0 100% +32 (94:62) -
 Italy 13 10 3 77% +14 (41:27) -9 (91-100)
 South Korea 2 2 0 100% +41 (97:56) -
 Latvia 7 6 1 86% +43 (108:65) -18 (76:94)
 Lebanon 1 1 0 100% +18 (84:66) -
 Macedonia 2 1 1 50% +8 (75:67) -2 (65:67)
 Mexico 1 1 0 100% +13 (87:74) -
 Montenegro 1 1 0 100% +7 (77:70) -
 Netherlands 6 6 0 100% +31 (88:57) -
 New Zealand 3 3 0 100% +13 (92:79) -
 Nigeria 2 1 1 50% +19 (72:53) -6 (80:86)
 Poland 8 6 2 75% +28 (46:18) -19 (69:88)
 Portugal 1 1 0 100% +29 (98:69) -
 Puerto Rico 3 3 0 100% +13 (104:91) -
 Qatar 1 1 0 100% +41 (106:65) -
 Russia 8 4 4 50% +31 (103:72) -29 (64:93)
 Scotland 1 1 0 100% +48 (117:69) -
 Serbia and Montenegro Serbia Yugoslavia 12 5 7 42% +18 (98:82) -15 (60:75)
 Slovenia 9 7 2 78% +19 (80:61) -23 (58:81)
 Spain 10 2 8 20% +9 (93:84) -22 (67:89)
 Sweden 3 3 0 100% +23 (96:73) -
  Switzerland 4 4 0 100% +56 (118:62) -
 Czechoslovakia 1 1 0 100% +7 (80:73) -
 Tunisia 1 1 0 100% +13 (76:63) -
 Turkey 13 10 3 77% +38 (100:62) -11 (84:95)
 United States 10 2 8 20% +4 (94:90) -51 (75:126)
 Ukraine 6 4 2 67% +22 (82:60) -7 (82:89)
 Venezuela 2 2 0 100% +18 (100:82) -
Total 246 180 66 73%

See also[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ Along with Latvia, hosts were Croatia, France and Germany. Lithuania played in Latvia during the group stage and France during the knockout rounds.

References[edit]

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  307. ^ Lithuanian tricolor, displayed by the fans
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  310. ^ Mes laimėjom! (VIDEO)
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External links[edit]