Lithuania men's national basketball team

Lithuania Lietuva
FIBA ranking	4
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
First international
Latvia 41–20 Lithuania (Riga, Latvia; 13 December 1925)[1]
Biggest win
Lithuania 112–9 Finland (Kaunas, Lithuania; 27 May 1939)[2]
Biggest defeat
United States 126–75 Lithuania ‡ (Barcelona, Spain; 6 August 1992)
Olympic Games
Appearances	6 (1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012)
Medals	Bronze: 1992, 1996, 2000
FIBA World Cup
Appearances	4 (1998, 2006, 2010, 2014)
Medals	Bronze: 2010
FIBA EuroBasket
Appearances	12 (1937, 1939, 1995–2013)
Medals	Gold: 1937, 1939, 2003 Silver: 1995, 2013 Bronze: 2007
Uniforms
Light Dark
Medal record Event 1st 2nd 3rd Olympic Games 0 0 3 FIBA World Cup 0 0 1 FIBA EuroBasket 3 2 1 Total 3 2 5

The Lithuania men's national basketball team (Lithuanian: Lietuvos nacionalinė vyrų krepšinio rinktinė) is the representative for Lithuania in international men's basketball. Lithuania has won bronze medals in three out of six Olympic tournaments it has participated in.

Lithuanian men competed in two of the pre-war FIBA EuroBasket competitions for the European championship. They won both the EuroBasket 1937 and EuroBasket 1939 competitions. The 1939 team was led by Frank Lubin, who helped popularize basketball in the country and was called the "Grandfather of Lithuanian Basketball".

Having been part of the Soviet Union, Lithuanian players frequently formed the core of the Soviet national team. This was especially so for 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, finished 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. It also won the bronze medal in the 2010 FIBA World Championship and became vice-champions in EuroBasket 2013.

Current roster

Squad for the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Lithuania men's national basketball team roster
Players	Coaches
Pos. # Name Age – Date of birth Ht. Club Ctr. 1.5 !G 4 Pocius, Martynas 7001280000000000000♠28 – (1986-04-28)28 April 1986 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) Žalgiris Kaunas LTU ! 1.5 !G 5 Juškevičius, Adas 7001250000000000000♠25 – (1989-01-03)3 January 1989 1.94 m (6 ft 4 in) Eisbären Bremerhaven GER ! 3.5 !F 6 Kuzminskas, Mindaugas 7001240000000000000♠24 – (1989-10-19)19 October 1989 2.04 m (6 ft 8 in) Unicaja Málaga ESP ! 5.0 !C 7 Lavrinovič, Darjuš 7001340000000000000♠34 – (1979-11-01)1 November 1979 2.12 m (6 ft 11 in) Reggiana ITA ! 3.5 !F 8 Mačiulis, Jonas 7001290000000000000♠29 – (1985-02-10)10 February 1985 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) Real Madrid SPA ! 1.5 !G 9 Seibutis, Renaldas 7001290000000000000♠29 – (1985-07-23)23 July 1985 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) Lietuvos Rytas LTU ! 3.5 !F 10 Jasaitis, Simas 7001320000000000000♠32 – (1982-03-26)26 March 1982 2.01 m (6 ft 7 in) Lokomotiv-Kuban RUS ! 3.5 !F 11 Motiejūnas, Donatas 7001230000000000000♠23 – (1990-09-20)20 September 1990 2.13 m (7 ft 0 in) Houston Rockets USA ! 3.5 !F 12 Lavrinovič, Kšyštof 7001340000000000000♠34 – (1979-11-01)1 November 1979 2.10 m (6 ft 11 in) Reggiana ITA ! 3.5 !F 13 Jankūnas, Paulius 7001300000000000000♠30 – (1984-04-29)29 April 1984 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in) Žalgiris Kaunas LTU ! 5.0 !C 14 Valančiūnas, Jonas 7001220000000000000♠22 – (1992-05-06)6 May 1992 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) Toronto Raptors CAN ! 1.5 !G 15 Vasiliauskas, Šarūnas 7001250000000000000♠25 – (1989-03-27)27 March 1989 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in) Trefl Sopot POL !	Head coach Jonas Kazlauskas Assistant coach(es) Darius Maskoliūnas Gintaras Krapikas Legend Club – describes last club before the tournament Age – describes age on 30 August 2014

Depth chart

Pos.	Starter	Bench	Bench	Bench	Reserve	Inactive
C	Jonas Valančiūnas	Darjuš Lavrinovič
PF	Donatas Motiejūnas	Paulius Jankūnas	Kšyštof Lavrinovič
SF	Jonas Mačiulis	Simas Jasaitis	Mindaugas Kuzminskas
SG	Renaldas Seibutis	Martynas Pocius
PG	Adas Juškevičius	Šarūnas Vasiliauskas

Recent tournament

2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup

After becoming European vice-champions in 2013, Lithuanians automatically qualified into the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup. On May 13, head coach Jonas Kazlauskas announced both the extended main roster for the national team and the reserve roster.^[3] On July 1, he announced the condensed candidate roster.^[4] National team 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.^[5][6][7][8] On August 18, Lithuania won preparation game against Slovenia with result 80–76 and achieved the 500th victory in Lithuania national basketball team history and 100th victory for the head coach Jonas Kazlauskas as a Lithuania coach.^[9] 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." ^[10]

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.^[11] 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.^[12] 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.^[13] Paulius Jankūnas became new team captain.^[14]

At the beginning of the tournament, on August 30, Lithuania defeated FIBA Americas champions Mexico after a tough battle with result 87–74.^[15] Crucial game moment happened during 3rd quarter when Lithuanians spurt 20–2 and Mexicans were unable to catch them up anymore, despite winning first quarter 27–22.^[16] On August 31, Lithuania has defeated FIBA Africa champions Angola after a tough game as well with result 75–62.^[17] Young big mans Motiejūnas (12 points) and Valančiūnas (11 points) led Lithuania to victory that night. They also protected the basket well by having 18 rebounds combined. 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.^[18] Head coach Jonas Kazlauskas said that it was the worst first half this 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.^[19] Although, Lithuanians still easily swept Koreans with result 79–49 and guaranteed spot in the second stage.^[20] Lithuania took first spot in the group after the tremendous victory against Slovenia 67–64.^[21] 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 with result 76–71.^[22] In the quarter-finals, Lithuania, led by Renaldas Seibutis, defeated Turkey 73–61 and advanced into the semi-finals where they met their frequent semi-finals opponent - Team USA.^[23] 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.^[24]

— Coach K

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.^[25] It was one of the worst performances for Lithuania against Team USA, following the 51-point defeat in the 1992 Summer Olympics semi-finals against the often nicknamed USA Dream Team. After the match Lithuania national team head coach Jonas Kazlauskas criticized the judging by saying: "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".^[26] 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".^[27] During the bronze medal game Lithuania faced France, which defeated Lithuanian at the EuroBasket 2013 finals. After terrific battle Lithuania lost to France 93–95 and took fourth place. Youngsters Jonas Valančiūnas and Adas Juškevičius tried to lead Lithuania that night with 39 points combined.^[28] Despite not winning any medals this year after taking the fourth place, which is solid, but at the same time disappointing, thousands of Lithuanians still came to Rotušės square again to thank the national team for their efforts during the competition.^[29] 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.^[30]

History

Interwar period (1920–1940)

Basketball history in Lithuania begins in 1920's, however until middle of 40's basketball in Lithuania was not popular because it was considered as a women's sport.^[31] 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 fasten to the poles without boards, the game was played in 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 smaller ball, without boards)".^[32]

In 1922 Karolis Dineika released book Krepšiasvydis vyrams (English: Basketball for men), in 1926 legendary pilot Steponas Darius published first basketball rules in Lithuania.^[33][34]

Despite the fact that women started playing basketball in Lithuania, the first official game was played by men. It happened on April 23, 1922 when Lietuvos Fizinio Lavinimo Sąjunga (English: Lithuanian Physical Education Union) played game against Kaunas team. LFLS won the game with result 8–6. This day is regarded as the beginning of the basketball in Lithuania. The press of that time described the match by writing: "The game was very interesting and gave positive impressions to 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 excellent basketball players game-play and applauded after Steponas Darius and Viktoras Dineika shots and passes. <...> Krepšiasvydis game, organized for the first time in Lithuania, gave beautiful hopes that in the future this game could lead our sportsman to bigger achievements".^[35]

First men basketball tournament in Lithuania was organized in 1924. The competition had only three teams: LFLS I, LFLS II and Lietuvos Dviračių Sąjunga (English: Lithuanian Cyclist Union). LFLS I became the first Lithuanian basketball champions, easily defeating their opponents: LFLS II with result 20–7 and LDS with 35–2. In a these times interview, Steponas Darius said: "In 1924 basketbolas already feels more competent citizen among the other sport branches. Without the friendly games, official basketbolas championships: men, women and students are taking place". During the same year, first basketball referees courses were held. First refereeing category was achieved by four referees, including Elena Garbačiauskienė and Steponas Darius.^[36]

The 1926–1933 years were drowsiness for basketball in Lithuania. Basketball, mostly supported only by the enthusiasts, popularity was decreasing. Games number was reduced, in 1929–1932 years the championship wasn't even organized. Basketball was played only during the summer period because there was no suitable hall for it. The game mostly was played by other sport branches representatives, who allocated few time to it. Basketball was overshadowed by football.^[37]

October 10, 1934 is a memorable day for the Lithuanian basketball. On that day, Physical Culture Palace was opened. The building had spacious hall with 200 seats, projected and built for tennis. To minimize the tennis players slipping, the hall had expensive cork floor installed, which cost over 30.000 LTL (over $5000). On November 16, 1934 first basketball game was held in the hall. Later the hall became the main basketball events center.^[38]

In 1935 the famous Lithuanian American basketball coaches (B. Budrikas, Juozas Knašas, Feliksas Kriaučiūnas and Konstantinas Savickas) arrived at Kaunas as a participants of World Lithuanians congress. Feliksas Kriaučiūnas and Konstantinas Savickas stayed in Lithuania and started teaching Lithuanians basketball secrets. In 1937 Lithuania played a game against Latvia (one of the strongest basketball team of that time). Lithuania lost that game with result 29–41, however it was quite a good performance for Lithuanians, since they played much worse previously and some time ago their team lost to Latvians with result 10–123.^[39][40] Motivated by this result, Lithuania decided to participate in the EuroBasket 1937 held in Riga, Latvia. LBS early invited Lithuania to the competition in January, 1937.^[41]

The preparation for the EuroBasket 1937 started slowly. The interest in team and its objectives were minimal. National team players trained only 4 hours a week. At first, it was decided that the national team will not include any famous Lithuanian Americans, however everything changed completely when there was only one month remaining until the tournament start due to a interesting circumstance. Latvian newspaper printed a huge article about the second European championship with its team's capabilities and prospects. Independent Lithuania sport historian, Jonas Narbutas, said: "At the first group, of course, there was Latvia, then Estonia, then Poland and Italy. These were the strongest teams. At the second group the strongest was France, then Czechoslovakia, Romania and Bulgaria. It were the mediocre capability teams. In the weakest group first was Turkey, then Egypt and only then, the last in the list, was Lithuania. <...> When Leonas Baltrūnas, a Lithuania national team member, received this weekly newspaper and read the article, he was shocked... He made accurate translation to the Lithuanian language and put it on my desk. By considering, we got the idea to go to the Physical Culture Palace director Vytautas Augustauskas, submit him the newspaper with the translation, <...> and request to call out a few best Lithuanian Americans". At that time, the government and the sports chiefs were against the Lithuanian descent Americans invitation to the European championship. Jonas Narbutas: "There also was a question who will go. The director‘s attitude about the Lithuanian Americans was well known to me. I was already warned that if I will try to interfere not into mine affairs, I will be fired. <...> The time was expensive. I decided to go. Augustauskas peeked at the newspaper and began reading the translation. When he finished, without looking at me, he hit the desk with his fist, even the inkpot jumped. By looking at my eyes he understood what I was willing to tell more. He asked: "Will two players be enough?", I replied with joy: "We only need center and one good guard". The telegram was sent to the USA immediately, inviting two best Lithuanian basketball players. When there was only month left, Pranas Talzūnas and Feliksas Kriaučiūnas arrived. The preparation of the team was entrusted to F. Kriaučiūnas. It was ordered to keep secretly the fact that the national team is strengthened with two Lithuanian Americans. The trainings before the trip to Riga were held behind the closed doors and the training time was raised. All the games were cancelled two weeks before the start. The national team was being prepared not only technically, but also physically.^[43] The efforts were successful. That year Lithuanians became champions of Europe for the first time in history, defeating all their opponents. Describing the 1937's victory, team's coach Feliksas Kriaučiūnas said: "I will never forget how we won in Riga and how people met us in the (train) station. People, gathered in every single station, met us like we, here in America, meet the president. Thousands of people congregated in stations".^[44] Pranas Talzūnas, the tournament's MVP, later in his letter to Konstantinas Savickas wrote: "Strong teams were considered Italians, Latvians, Estonians, French and Polish. They appointed us to the seventh place. Nobody thought that Feliksas and I were good players. Everyone thought that good player must be big, who raises his hand and dunks into the basket. They haven't got any idea and unimagined what a good player is".^[45]

Basketball regained its lost positions immediately. The game was gaining bigger popularity every day, especially amongst students. Gymnasium's teams from almost all counties competed in the students games. The teams were created in companies. Algirdas Žukauskas, 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. Near the gymnasium there was a barn. In a few months it became a unheated basketball hall where we were training even in winter". Another witness, Stepas Butautas, said: "In every yard hoops are being minted from the 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 the willow and said: "We will play basketball". First amazing basketball tide flooded Lithuania".^[46]

Lithuania was granted a right to organize the EuroBasket 1939. In addition to this, the Kaunas Sports Hall was built. It was the first basketball arena in whole Europe. During this competition team roster mostly consisted of Lithuanian Americans. Five players were 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 was several other nations protests.^[47] Pranas Lubinas lead Lithuania to the second title that year. He even made the buzzer-beater in the most important game versus Latvia, which later let Lithuanians to win the competition. The ball bounced around the rim and went in as the time expired, giving Lithuanians 37–36 victory over Latvia. In the entry of the awarding ceremony the analyst says: "All the flowers were redeemed", which shows Lithuania's passion for basketball even at that early time. Latvia, unable to stand the lose, even stopped sports relations with Lithuania.^[48] The 1939 Baltic Cup was cancelled. One of the 1939's champions, Mykolas Ruzgys, later in a interview described his memories of basketball in Lithuania by saying: "They (Lithuanians) have one thing, which I value more than in America. They love the game. In Lithuania we played, we wished 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".^[44] 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".^[49]

After two consecutive EuroBasket titles, Pranas Lubinas, a former team captain of the USA in 1936 Summer Olympics, dreamed of leading Lithuania in the 1940 Summer Olympics. Sadly, it remained only as a dream as the World War II outbroke and the Olympics were cancelled.^[48] Possibly all (some players further fate is unknown) the golden Lithuanian basketball players and substantial basketball supporter president Antanas Smetona withdrew to war-safer countries such as the United States and Australia due to possible dangers. Only few of them had a chance to return to Lithuania in 1989-1990.^[51]

The EuroBasket 1941 was planned in Lithuania as well, but was cancelled due to the war.^[52]

After World War II, the Soviet Union occupied Lithuania and forced it to play for the Soviet Union national basketball team, however none of the 1937's or the 1939's champions been a part of the Soviet squad. Promising basketball nation disappeared from the basketball map.

Soviet and Nazi period (1940–1990)

Due to occupations, Lithuanians were unable to represent Lithuania in FIBA organized tournaments or the Olympic Games. In 1941 Baltic states tournament was organized in Kaunas Sports Hall. Game between Latvia and Lithuania was observed by 6000 people. Lithuania won that game with result 38–33.^[53]

In 1941, 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".^[55]

Horrific times in Lithuania continued. The life of one of the best these times Lithuanian basketball player – Vincas Sercevičius, often nicknamed as the second Lubinas, is a perfect proof of that. 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.^[56]

First Soviet Union basketball team was formed in 1947 to participate in EuroBasket 1947 and it immediately won gold medals. The team had four Lithuanians: Stepas Butautas, Justinas Lagunavičius, Kazimieras Petkevičius and Vytautas Kulakauskas.^[57]

Lithuanian basketball players dreams of playing on Olympic court came true only in 1952 Olympic Games as part of the Soviet Union squad. The 1952's Olympic vice-champions team was led by Georgian player Otar Korkia (17.3 points per game) and two Lithuanians: Stepas Butautas (10.6 points) and Kazimieras Petkevičius (8.1 points). The squad also had two other Lithuanians: Justinas Lagunavičius and Stanislovas Stonkus.^[58] The four is regarded as the first Lithuania-born Olympic basketball players. One of them, Stepas Butautas, described the rivalries with the USA squad under the Soviet flag by telling: "We offered to play the first game very slowly, to cherish the ball. In short – to let the Americans control the ball as fewer as possible. The American squad had tall players (2.10 m., 2.13 m). The smallest was like ours the highest. So, I remember, when we offered to play like that slowly, our supervisor told: “That’s not the Soviet school”. We lost with the Soviet school by almost 30 points. At the second game we offered that game-play again and the completely different roster. <…> The Americans were so frightened that at the second quarter 5th minute, when they overbalanced the result, they didn’t attacked by themselves. They were holding the ball. <…> The Americans wrote that the Russians were using the refrigeration tactics, when you play until the true shot, and that they were so close near the victory. So close that the Americans never before were in a such situation".^[59]

Despite not being able to challenge the Soviet Union on basketball court, Lithuanians still did that in another way. Basketball club Kaunas Žalgiris, 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. Žalgiris players meetings in the air ports after victories against CSKA were de facto first mass rallies which the government were afraid to chase. Baltic states teams games in the USSR tournaments often were firmly covered in various rumors. For example, basketball fans of that time says that the referees were seeking to "drown" the Baltic teams on purpose, while these teams often helped each other during the competitions. Notable proof of that is the last round game in 1973 when Lithuanians, who already guarantied medals after defeating the CSKA, specially lost to Kalev Tallinn. Possibly biggest Lithuanian basketball star of that time, Modestas Paulauskas, said: "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".^[60]

Lithuania battles for freedom on basketball court continued. Just before the 1981's Arvydas Sabonis debut in Žalgiris, during students sport games in Vilnius, there was a huge commotion when the Lithuanian basketball phenomenon of that time Sabonis played along with Šarūnas Marčiulionis for the Lithuanians students team. Witness of these games said: "I still remember the atmosphere of Vilnius Palace of Concerts and Sports, militia and security agents in civil clothes efforts to suppress the passion in the rostrums. By the way, there was no flags, even Soviet ones, in the rostrums, however most of the audience attended the games decorated with green and yellow colors. Automatically, it raised the thoughts of a huge tricolor, many even spoke about it despite the gloomy Soviet period. Lithuanians also defeated the Moscow squad".^[60]

Shortly before the Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania, Žalgiris defeated CSKA three times in a row in the super-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...".^[60]

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".^[60]

The Soviet Union squad became the 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).^[62] 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".^[63] It was corrected soon on March 11, 1990.

Following the Lithuania's independence in 1990, the Soviet Union national team didn't even qualified for the EuroBasket 1991.^[64]

The best Lithuania players, playing for the Soviet Union national basketball team, won bunch of titles with it. As members of Soviet Union team, Lithuanians (men and women) in total won 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).^[65] Yet 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 clubs games in Lithuania is still a rare tradition, rarely found outside the NBA in Europe.

After the restoration of independence (from 1990)

After restoring the Lithuania's independence, it fully became a member of the World basketball community again. In 1990, an independent Lithuanian Basketball Federation was restored with new statutes. In 1991, during the FIBA congress in Springfield, USA, LKF president Stanislovas Stonkus presented the Lithuanian basketball and requested the right to be a full member of FIBA once again. After a short FIBA congress session, FIBA president George Kilian granted Stonkus' request and invited Lithuania to participate in all of the FIBA organized events.^[67]

Though, the Lithuania national team almost had no state funding due to the extremely difficult country's financial situation. As a result, the team had to search for the financial supporters by themselves in order to play the international games. Šarūnas Marčiulionis had experience and contacts in the United States as he was the first USSR player to sign a contract with an NBA team. Consequently, he, along with Donnie Nelson, searched for financial supporters that could finance Lithuania's participation in the international games and the 1992 Summer Olympics. George Shirk wrote a little story about this in a local newspaper and accidentally it was read by some of the American rock band Grateful Dead members.^[68] They decided to help Lithuania by donating $5,000 and helping to launch a tie-dyed jerseys trade by allowing to use their symbols (skeletons). The Skeleton Jerseys with the famous Skullman dunking a flaming basketball over a, was created by designer and licensor Greg Speirs, who designated his profit to Lithuania national basketball team and the Lithuanian child fund. Later Slam Dunking Skeleton was enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Taking his place in sports history, 'Scully' became the first and only cartoon character to be enshrined in any Hall of Fame.^[69] Arvydas Sabonis described these jerseys by saying: "My first impression of them was: Wow, this really is a free Lithuania".^[70]

1992 Summer Olympic Games (Barcelona 1992)

Preparation for the first major international tournament since regaining the country's independence began in May, 1992. Lithuania national 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. Lithuanians were led by Gintaras Krapikas (22.5 points per game) and Rimas Kurtinaitis (19 points). Though, some the biggest Lithuanian stars Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis and Artūras Karnišovas wasn't competing yet.^[71]

Lithuanian basketball celebrated the 70 years jubilee that year. This important anniversary was commemorated by many interesting events. Some of them were: a three parts television movie, Stanislovas Stonkus book "Septyniasdešimt mūsų krepšinio metų 1922-1992", a tournament of all the best Lithuanian basketball generations etc. A international six-teams (Latvia, Belarus, Finland, Illinois State University basketball team and two Lithuanian squads) competition was also held. Lithuanians, led by Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Rimas Kurtinaitis, were vastly superior than the other teams. Following it, Lithuania national team was invited to compete in the prestigious annual Acropolis Tournament, along with Italy, France and the host team – Greece. Lithuanians began the competition shockingly, immediately crushing the EuroBasket 1991 silver medalists Italians 116–94 (at some points the Lithuanians lead was even 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 overcome the Olympics host Spanish national team 107–97 in Ibiza.^[72]

The 1992 Summer Olympics were remarkably different. The Soviet Union and Yugoslavia disappeared. Consequently, Croatia, Slovenia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and the other independent states returned into the Olympic competition. Totally, 25 national teams wished to participate in the qualification tournament, from which only 4 qualified. The Lithuanian squad was amongst that lucky four, winning all the 11 games versus contenders.^[73]

The main Olympic tournament for the Lithuania national team began with a game versus the China national team. The Olympic debut was certainly fortunate for Lithuanians, crushing the China squad 112–75. Rimas Kurtinaitis scored 31 points (5 of 6 three-pointers) back then. Further the Venezuelan national team awaited, which at the Olympic qualification tournament was outperformed only by the United States. The match was unremitting and interesting: the leading team was frequently changing. Though, Šarūnas Marčiulionis (27 points) and Arvydas Sabonis (24 points) led the Lithuanian team past them 87–79. The third game wasn't less successful, defeating the Puerto Rican national team 104–91. The golden Lithuanian trio (Sabonis, Marčiulionis, Kurtinaitis) left no hopes for the opponents victory, together scoring 80 of the team's points. Although, then the Unified Team awaited (a team formed from the former USSR states). The team had many experienced and high mastery players, the most notable of them being: Raimonds Miglinieks, Valeri Tikhonenko, Sergei Babkov, Alexander Volkov and others. Lithuanians were able to defeat that team during the Olympic Qualification Tournament 116–79. Although, they were seeking for a revenge this time. Lithuanians started the game successfully and at the middle of the second quarter even had the crushing lead of 53–34. Though, then the Lithuanian game stopped. The Lithuania national team lead melted to 59–57 at some point and later it even became a deficit of 71–74. Lithuanian squad lost the match 80–92, despite the 42-points combined efforts of Arvydas Sabonis and Šarūnas 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 for the second stage.^[74]

Lithuania met the respected and powerful Brazil squad at the quarter-finals. Lithuanian coaches decided to use only the most reliable team's members: only six Lithuanians scored during that game. The tension of the game was huge. Lithuanians overbalanced the result when there was only 5 minutes remaining (87–83) and didn't let the initiative till the finish, winning the quarter-final 114–96. Arvydas Sabonis played all the 40 game minutes and scored 32 points, Šarūnas Marčiulionis added 29, Rimas Kurtinaitis – 20.^[75]

At the semi-final Lithuanians met the USA Dream Team. It was the first USA national team composed of the NBA players, following its fiasco at the 1988 Summer Olympics, mostly caused by the four Lithuanians who later became the Olympic champions. Consequently, the Dream Team reached a tremendous revenge versus them by leaving absolutely no chances for victory (76–127). It was the all-time biggest loss in the international tournaments for the Lithuanian squad, still not outclassed by anyone till the nowadays. Though, the result might have been slightly different, but the Lithuanian team coaches decided to start resting the primary players for the bronze medals game.^[76] The widely regarded all-time greatest basketball player Michael Jordan scored 21 points for the United States back then.

At the bronze medals game Lithuanians faced the Unified Team for the third time that year. It was the time to decide which of these teams is really greater, since they both had one victory versus the each other previously. Captain Valdemaras Chomičius described that game by saying: "We lost to them once already, we couldn't let that happen again. The final had to be ours",^[78] Šarūnas Marčiulionis described it similarly: "We didn't have any choice, we absolutely had to win at any cost".^[79] Lithuania's team head coach Vladas Garastas: "I said, men, you're playing for the people of Lithuania. Forget about your personal ambitions. People are watching you, losing sleep over you".^[80] Šarūnas Marčiulionis: "Some were listening on radios, others were watching on television. All of Lithuania was stopped. Everyone was watching that game".^[81] Lithuanians were leading during the whole game (10-6, 18-15, 25-24, 39-33 at the half, then 48-44, 57-55, 67-61 and etc). Although, the 82-78 victory wasn't easy, but just inexpressibly remarkable for a tiny country which regained its independence just two years before the Olympics after the 50 years of occupation. Šarūnas Marčiulionis played 40 minutes during that match and scored 29 points, Arvydas Sabonis added 27. Donnie Nelson: "In the locker room it was winning the NBA championship times five".^[82]

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. Donnie Nelson: "Šarūnas showed up and said: The Grateful Dead were believing in us when we were nobody and we gonna play a tribute to them".^[83] 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",^[84] Valdemaras Chomičius: "It was such an emotion that it's hard to explain. You have to experience it".^[85] 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".^[86] Totally, Lithuanians averaged 94 points per game in the tournament, being outclassed only by the USA (117 points per game).^[87]

In 2012 Marius Markevičius created a documentary named The Other Dream Team, about this period.^[88]

EuroBasket 1995

Due to the fiasco in Wrocław, when the Lithuanian basketball team lost to Belarus and didn't qualified for the EuroBasket 1993, Lithuanians did not competed at the 2002 FIBA World Championship and also had to qualify into the EuroBasket 1995 for not being a World Championship participant as well. Though, this fiasco encouraged the creation of the first professional basketball league in Lithuania.

By preparing for the EuroBasket 1995 Lithuania national team played in a few international competitions. The most remarkable tournament for Lithuanians was held in Málaga. Lithuanian squad won the four-team competition back then. The send off game was organized in Vilnius versus the Polish squad. Lithuanians overcome them 105–84.

Lithuania national team began the championship powerfully: they have defeated five of six contenders in the first round, losing only to Yugoslavia 61–70. They have overcome the quarter-finals stage successfully as well by defeating the former 1994 World Championship silver medalists – the Russian national team 82–71. Lithuanians were leading the game from the very first minutes till the end. After it Lithuanians not only got the chance to play for the trophies, but they also have been immediately granted a right to participate in the 1996 Summer Olympics, held in Atlanta. The semi-final was overstepped as well, defeating the powerful Croatian national team, led by the two mighty centers: Stojko Vranković and Dino Rađa, with result 90–80. Lithuania national team advanced into the finals after the countless 56 years due to the occupations. This has perfectly shown the Lithuanian basketball vitality and strength, in spite of all the previous difficulties.^[89]

The final game opponents undoubtedly were worth the each other: Lithuania faced the titled contender Yugoslavia. Sadly, the game final result was not only influenced by the teams and their representatives capabilities... Lithuanian squad won the first half 49–48. The game was equal and tight. Though, at the end strange things started to happen. When there was only five minutes remaining, Arvydas Sabonis received his last fifth foul. Lithuanians had the deficit of 76–83, however later only 83–84. Although, then the biased refereeing continued. Saulius Štombergas made accurate shot, however the referee George Toliver called it as a offensive foul and did not count in the earned points. Consequently, Lithuanians started protesting and even got three technical fouls (first Sabonis, then Marčiulionis and then the whole team). Aleksandar Đorđević made all six free-throws. After this episode, Lithuanians left the basketball court and returned to it only persuaded by Serbians. Following the return, Lithuanians lost 90–96. This EuroBasket final is regarded as one of the most scandalous one, though in the same way it is widely approved as one of the greatest one ever played.^[92] Although, its passion did not ended up with the game's final horn. During the awarding ceremony, the Greek fans shouted "Lietuva", Croatians left the awards ceremony with the bronze medals without waiting for the Yugoslavians golden awarding.^[93]

1996 Summer Olympic Games (Atlanta 1996)

The 1996 years were Olympic ones. It should have answered whenever the bronze medals at the 1992 Summer Olympics were just a accident or the Lithuanian basketball really is among the world's elite. Lithuania national team began preparation for the 1996 Olympics in the green, kangaroos continent – Australia. Lithuanians played five games with the capable host team there, however this trip main purpose was to give more experience for the younger squad's members as the primary players (Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Artūras Karnišovas) did not participated in this preparation period. Lithuania lost all the five games here, though as the history shows the gained experience versus the Australian squad was to be useful in the future. Following the Lithuanian squad return to Europe, they played a few games with the strong and spirited Croatian national team and the Africa champions Angola national team in Spain. Lithuania lost two times to Croatia and two times overcome Angola there. Although, after the return of Arvydas Sabonis in Berlin, Germany, Lithuania national team defeated Yugoslavia 86–70. Sabonis scored 32 points back then.^[94]

The second Olympic Games for the Lithuania men's national team. The Olympics began quickly: first contender for the Lithuanian squad was the 1992 Olympic vice-champions – Croatians, led by Toni Kukoč, Stojko Vranković, Dino Rađa. The opponents were worth the each other: the match had two overtimes. Though, Lithuanians were stronger that time, winning 83–81. Although, the second game versus Argentina wasn't that fortunate, losing it 61–65. The countless thirty one thousand spectators observed the third game versus the United States national team. The beautiful game was lost again, this time 82–104. In the second round, Lithuania crushed the Angola (85–49) and China (116–55) squads and qualified for the quarter-final.

The Olympic quarter-final game, which widely opens up the gates for the medals rivalries, was rarely easy. Lithuanians crushed their third straight opponent – the Greece national team 99–66. And then the Olympic semi-final match awaited with the such contenders like: Dejan Bodiroga, Predrag Danilović, Saša Obradović, Željko Rebrača, Dejan Tomašević and, of course, Vlade Divac – the Yugoslavian squad, which defeated all its previous opponents. Although, the golden Lithuanian trio (Arvydas Sabonis, Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Rimas Kurtinaitis) and Artūras Karnišovas, Gintaras Einikis were seeking for a revenge. 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. The Olympic final was near.^[95]

Only the game for the second consecutive bronze remained for the Lithuanian squad. Though, the mighty Australian squad was seeking for their first ever Olympic medal as well. Lithuanians were exhausted after the tedious semi-final and the bronze medals seemed quite difficult to achieve. The game perfectly proved that: with the one minute remaining Lithuanians only had the lead of 73–72. Still, the victory shined for the Lithuania national team this time, triumphing 84–74. Lithuanians proved that the 1992 Olympics bronze wasn't just a accident and that they really are a part of the basketball world leaders.^[96] Although, it was the last time basketball fans were able to observe magical Sabas (Arvydas Sabonis) and Šaras (Šarūnas Marčiulionis) tandem. Marčiulionis left the Lithuania basketball team and shortly afterward retired due to injuries. Head coach Vladas Garastas left the national team as well. The changing times of the generations began.

EuroBasket 1997

Lithuania began the preparation games for the XXX European Championship changed firmly. Only two primary players remained from the silver medal winning EuroBasket 1995's squad: Artūras Karnišovas and Gintaras Einikis. Mindaugas Timinskas, Saulius Štombergas and Darius Lukminas also been a part of that team, however their appearances on court were only episodic back then. The team also had the upcoming Lithuanian legend Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Dainius Adomaitis, Virginijus Praškevičius and the outstanding defender Eurelijus Žukauskas. These youngsters had to replace the previous legendary generation. Furthermore, Jonas Kazlauskas and Antanas Sireika also replaced the first Lithuania national team coach after regaining the country's independence – Vladas Garastas. The newly put together team was constantly causing anxiety if it will be able to continue the successful performances in the international games. Though, the victory in the four-teams tournament, held in Riga, and the victory over the Spanish national team 99–82 in Zaragoza destroyed these dreary thoughts.^[97]

The EuroBasket 1997 championship significance was also raised because the teams also competed for the qualification into the 1998 FIBA World Championship, held in Athens, Greece. A competition in which the Lithuania men national team failed to qualify before. There is an unwritten rule: a good start is a half of the job. Lithuanians tried to comply this rule by successfully winning first three games. Although, it wasn't easy. During the first match versus Israel, the young Lithuanian squad failed to deal with the starting ebulliency, losing first quarter 30–31. Though, in the second quarter they packed the convincing lead and achieved the first very significant victory 75–60. The second game versus the French national team required even more efforts and mastery. Following the beginning of the match, Lithuanians had the leads of 20–7, 26–14, however the contenders didn't fall apart and even outweigh the game into their side (36–39). Though, before the half Saulius Štombergas and Artūras Karnišovas brighten the Lithuanians mood with their game-play. Lithuania won the first half 49–42. Later the French squad tried to melt down the deficit several times, but was unable to do that fully (65–62, 71–69, 79–78). Lithuania won 94–88. Lithuanians also celebrated the third consecutive triumph in the first round over Slovenia 76–67 as well. The beginning was great.^[98]

Although, in the second round the Lithuania national team suffered tough times, winning only versus the Turkey national team 93–85. They lost the two other games to Greece (66–73) and to the Russian national team (64–93).

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. Following the lose, only the games for the 5-8th places remained for the Lithuanian squad. Lithuania crushed the Polish squad 76–55, but lost to the host team Spain during the final seconds 93–94. They took the 6th place, which allowed the participation in the 1998 FIBA World Championship. That was an quite good performance for the young Lithuanian squad and lay the foundations for the future victories.

FIBA World Championship 1998

As usually, by preparing fot the significant championship, the Lithuania national team played a wide variety of games and competed in interesting tournaments. One of such have been held in Nicosia, Cyprus, where Lithuanians played for the first versus the Nigeria national team, defeating it 98–64. Though, Lithuania lost to the upcoming world championship host Greece 68–82 and took the second spot in the competition. Similar situation happened in Seville, Spain as well where Lithuanians, losing to the host team 62–66, once again achieved the second place.^[99]

Lithuania also participated in the 1998 Goodwill Games basketball tournament, held in New York, USA, along with Argentina, Brazil, Australia, Russia, Puerto Rico, China and, of course, the host – Team USA. In the first round, the Lithuania national team overcome Russia and Argentina, but lost to Australia and took the second spot in the group. Consequently, they had to play versus the United States in the semi-final, losing it 76–89. Though, they took the third place after smashing the Puerto Rican national team 119–75.^[100]

The debut in the sixteen teams FIBA World Championship for the Lithuania national team. Even the qualification for the world championship wasn't easy and there, of course, nobody wants to descend to the each other. Although, the young Lithuania national team players and the prudent coaches wasn't lacking determination. The debut officially happened on July 29, 1998 in which Lithuania without mercy crushed the South Korea national team 97–56. Second game was successful as well, defeating the United States 84–82 for the first time as an independent country. Third game versus Brazil was not less easy, but Lithuania still overcome the contenders squad 66–62.

Although, the triumphant Lithuanians march was stopped by Australia, losing the match 61–71. Though, the important victory over Argentina 84–75 improved the team's moods and its capabilities. The only missing thing then was the victory over the Spanish national team. The goddess of fortune was turning to one and into the other side. It was the Spanish day. Lithuania lost 80–86 after OT. Despite that, the hopes of playing for the medals wasn't lost yet: Lithuanians had to defeat the very capable Russian national team. Two weeks before Lithuania was able to do that. At first, it seemed that the difficult barrier will be completed: after the first quarters the Lithuania national team had the lead (38–35), though the young squad wasn't experienced enough, losing the quarter-final game 67–82.

Following the unfortunate quarter-final, only games for the 5-8th spots remained. Lithuanian squad lost the first one to Italy 71–76, but defeated Argentina after the fierce match 77–76 and achieved the 7th place. The equal games and especially the victory over the USA were promising for the young Lithuanian squad.^[101]

EuroBasket 1999

Preparation for the European championship began in a usual way: after the intense practice period Lithuania national team participated in the international competitions. They won two tournaments (in Helsinki and in Kaunas). Consequently, they went to the European championship with elation.^[102]

During the XXXI European Championship the sixteen teams competed not only for the European title, but also for the rights to participate in the 2000 Summer Olympics, which raised the importance of the every game even more and caused several vicissitudes. Lithuanians served an unexpected surprise as well: in the first match they lost to the Czech Republic national team 62–78, which with its capability wasn't pretending for the highest spots that year. However, the further Lithuania national team games have returned the optimism and the expectations to win. They achieved the five straight victories, overcoming: Germany (84–74), Greece (82–64), Turkey (74–48), Croatia (91–75) and Italy (74–62). Lithuanians took the first spot in the group and consequently were considered as one of the championship favorites. Though, the Spanish national team ruined their dreams by barely defeating them 74–72. Then the Lithuania national team achieved two more convincing triumphs: for the second time over Turkey (82–56) and crushed the disliked opponent Russian national team (103–72). Totally, Lithuania won 7 of the 9 games. Although, they took only the 5th place, but still qualified for the 2000 Summer Olympics.^[103]

EuroBasket 1999 was the last national team competition for some of the biggest Lithuanian basketball stars ever: Artūras Karnišovas and especially the Žalgiris legend Arvydas Sabonis. Though, the younger Saulius Štombergas and Šarūnas Jasikevičius solid performances showed that Lithuania has a bright basketball future.

2000 Summer Olympic Games (Sydney 2000)

Lithuania national team started the 2000's with the victory over Turkey 70–58 in Vilnius. During the preparation period Lithuanians once again visited Spain. There they have participated in two tournaments, defeating the host Spain national team twice. Lithuania was the most powerful team in the Valladolid's tournament.

Times change often is painful to the most capable teams. That year Lithuania national team had even eight debutants: Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Mindaugas Timinskas, Andrius Giedraitis, Kęstutis Marčiulionis, Darius Maskoliūnas and Tomas Masiulis. While it were the second Olympic Games for Saulius Štombergas and Eurelijus Žukauskas. Though, in the 1996 Summer Olympics they only were reserves. The Olympic Games also were the first ones for the head coach Jonas Kazlauskas and his assistant Antanas Sireika. His second assistant was more experienced though – the Olympic champion Valdemaras Chomičius. The team also had a very rare component – American Donnie Nelson was one of its coaches. He is the last foreign coach in Lithuania national team history, which is only composed of Lithuanians or the Lithuania-born people all the time till nowadays.^[104]

The first Olympic game versus the Italy national team ended up with a surprising result as the both teams by adding scored less than 100 points. It is a very rare result that such significant games ends up with the aforesaid poor effectiveness. Lithuania lost it 48–50. Though, it only was the beginning of the long Olympic journey. The second opponent was no less famous – the upcoming Olympic vice-champions French national team. Although, the young Lithuanian squad overcome its starting ebulliency and swept them 81–63. The journalist Roma Grinbergienė described the triumph symbolically and picturesquely: "Even the Vytautas the Great would accolade!". Third contender – the almighty USA Dream Team, which already solidly defeated its two previous opponents China and Italy. Though, the Lithuanians were not scared of it in any way and fought solidly, and as R. Grinbergienė described: "Lithuanian players forced the USA Dream Team to share the audience's applause". Lithuania started the game slowly, but had the lead in the second quarter. Nevertheless in the end the USA snatched the victory 85–76. Though, it was the closest game for the USA men national team since it was started to compose it of the NBA players in 1992 and questioned its invincibility for the first time. R. Grinbergienė: "The Lithuanian players challenge for the USA Dream Team rang widely around the world as the biggest Olympic basketball tournament sensation. Still, the world didn't knew that the Lithuanians will serve a bigger one". Onwards, Lithuania overcome China 82–66 and New Zealand 85–75. Despite the solid performances, the Lithuania national team finished only third in the group.^[105]

The quarter-final opponent seemed ruthless – the never-before independently defeated giant Yugoslavia. The start was anxious as Lithuanians were trailing 8–2, but not for long. Yugoslavians resisted only till the 17th minute when the Lithuanians were 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 one more time in the semi-final. Millions of the basketball fans were surprised there. The USA won the first quarter 48–36, but after the 5 minutes of the second – the game is 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, making only one (81–80). With 0:25 remaining – 81–82 and USA player is shooting two free-throws, missing them both. Suddenly, the USA grabs rebound and Lithuania trails 81–84 already. Šarūnas Jasikevičius makes two free-throws (83–84). Ramūnas Šiškauskas fouls. Only 5 seconds remains. USA player makes only one free-throw (83–85). Šarūnas Jasikevičius long shot is inaccurate. The USA national team rejoices: 83–85.^[107] 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."^[108][109]

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.^[110][111]

— Rudy Tomjanovich, the United States men's national basketball team head coach

The Olympic final was near and it was hoped to bring at least silver medals, however after losing to the USA, the hope of climbing onto the honorary rises was not lost yet. Just on the third one, but still allowing to bring home medals. That opportunity must have been used. Though, the Olympic bronze was not easily achievable. The loss was still oppressing and the game was to be played with the host team – Australia national team. Although, the gloomy forecasts did not come true. It was denied by the awesome Lithuanian game-play. Lithuanians quickly packed the solid lead (51–35) and did not let it go. The shooting percentage was 67%, not even mentioning the flawless defense. Lithuania defeated Australia 89–71, winning their third consecutive Olympic bronze medal. The Lithuanian Tricolor was once again raised – this time in the green continent – Australia.^[112]

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.^[113][114]

— Jonas Kazlauskas, the Lithuania men's national basketball team head coach

EuroBasket 2001

The starting of a new millennium. The XXXII European Championship, held in Turkey, was awaiting for the Lithuania national team in autumn. This tournament was the first European championship for some of the biggest upcoming decade Lithuanian basketball stars, such as: Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Rimantas Kaukėnas and Robertas Javtokas. Though, the team's roster was almost the same as in 2000 Summer Olympics.

By preparing for the championship and by trying to raise the level of the youth, 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 – in the Argentina capital Buenos Aires they participated in a four-team tournament, where, together with the host team, the another world basketball leader Brazil competed. This time was more successful for Lithuanians – they took the second spot, losing only to the host Argentine national team 56–67. In that competition notable milestone was achieved after overcoming the Brazil squad 92–86 – the 500th international victory in the Lithuania men national basketball team history. Only four years were required to accomplish the last 100 triumphs.^[115] Lithuania also competed in the Acropolis Tournament for the second time after the nine years break. Though, losing two times there and taking only the fourth place.

The unexpected failure in Turkey. Lithuania national team started the championship with the two victories: versus Ukraine 82–60 and versus Israel 68–59. Although, they lost to France 65–76 in the first round and got the fellow Balts – Latvians for the eight-finals. And there happened something that have nobody expected: Lithuania distressingly lost to Latvia 64–94.^[116] This game have been a sweet Latvian revenge to Lithuania for the scandalous EuroBasket 1939. Though, Latvia still was terribly crushed by Yugoslavia at the quarter-finals. Nevertheless, the EuroBasket 2001 was more painful for the Lithuanian squad. By losing eight-finals, Lithuania lost all the chances of participating in the 2002 FIBA World Championship, the appearance in EuroBasket 2003 have been put on question as well. By far it was the worst performance for the Lithuanian squad with no possible matches till 2009. As a result, the head coach Jonas Kazlauskas resigned.

EuroBasket 2003

Due to the fiasco in EuroBasket 2001, Lithuania missed the 2002 FIBA World Championship. Consequently, Lithuania also didn't received the direct ticket to the EuroBasket 2003, held in Sweden, for not competing in the World Championship. The team had to participate in FIBA EuroBasket 2003 qualification in 2002. They easily qualified into the tournament, after reaching almost all the possible victories, together with Turkey and Ukraine.^[117]

In 2003, the renewed Lithuania basketball team, full of motivation and energy, was led by Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Arvydas Macijauskas, Ramūnas Šiškauskas and Saulius Štombergas. During the preparation games, Lithuanians showed solid shape and, as always, played a lot of the international games in the prestigious tournaments. Beautiful victory was reached in Italy, where the Lithuania national team defeated all the opponents. Two victories over Australia also gave joy. In Strasbourg, France, Lithuania successfully achieved tremendous victory versus the host team after OT. Though, Lithuanians took the second place after losing to Italy. During another competition in Spain, Lithuanians lost to the host team, though they still won the tournament.^[118] Surprisingly, the battles versus the Spanish national team wasn't done that year.

The beginning of the EuroBasket 2003: game versus the neighbour Latvia. Painful 2001's eighth final is not forgotten yet, when the Lithuanians shockingly lost to Latvia and not only ended their appearance early, but also firmly complicated their further participations in the basketball competitions. The game, once again, was going remarkably poorly for Lithuania. They firmly lost the first quarter (14–23), at the half Lithuanians were still trailing (34–40) and the game was tied after the third (58–58). At the fourth quarter, Latvians still had the lead of 66–58. When there was only 23 seconds remaining, Eurelijus Žukauskas tied the game (81–81) and the game was extended. During the conclusion of the over-time, Šarūnas Jasikevičius made two free-throws and secured the Lithuania victory 92–91 with only four seconds remaining. Despite the difficult start, then Lithuanians simply overcome the other two opponents in the group by showing the terrific basketball: Israel (94–62) and Germany (93–71).^[119]

More concern showed up before the quarter-final game versus Serbia and Montenegro (former Yugoslavia). Although, the concern was unfounded. Solid advantage was already achieved in the first quarter (30–19), leaving no doubt for the winner early (98–82). Coach Božidar Maljković: "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".^[120]

Semi-final: Lithuania versus France. Nobody doubted that the rivals are worth the each other. Lithuanians won the first quarter (20–16) and secured a minor advantage after two (45–37), after the third the result was in Lithuania favor as well (48–37). Although, then the French squad came in ahead (60–58) and continued their decisive assault: the 70–65 French lead with three minutes remaining and it wasn't the denouement yet. With 15 seconds remaining, the Lithuania national team had the lead of 72–70. The ball was held by the French NBA star Tony Parker, though, Lithuanian Ramūnas Šiškauskas was able to steal the ball, subsequently made two free-throws during the final seconds and forced the French national team to accept the advantage of the Neman nation.^[121]

The fourth EuroBasket final in the history: Lithuania won two of them (1937, 1939) and lost once in 1995. How will it be this time, many asked? Though, one of the goals was already achieved: Lithuania, as a EuroBasket finalist, automatically qualified for the 2004 Summer Olympics. Exhausting game versus France took a lot of physical and mental powers from players and from coaches. Although, the Lithuania national team showed up solidly once again. Spanish national team was conquered without the bigger misery. Only the first quarter was played equally (20–19). At the half, Lithuanians already had the solid lead of 40–31 for a such important game. After the third: 60–45, at the 33rd minute – even 71–50. At the end, the lead was reduced by Spain, but not sufficiently. Lithuania won their third European title 93–84 after a 64-year hiatus. Šarūnas Jasikevičius was named MVP, he, along with Saulius Štombergas, was also included 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...^[122]

— Antanas Sireika, coach of the EuroBasket 2003 champions

The word about the Lithuanians triumph spread wide.^[123]

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.^[123]

— La Gazzetta dello Sport

The European championship was won by the true Lithuania national team. Without NBA stars.^[123]

— Tuttosport

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.^[123]

— El Mundo

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.^[123]

— El Periódico de Catalunya

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.^[124]

2004 Summer Olympic Games (Athens 2004)

The 2004 years were Olympic years. Already at the beginning of the summer, Lithuania competed in multiple prestigious tournaments. In two of these, held in Genoa and Bormio, Lithuania national team lost to the host team twice. Through, Lithuania defeated France, Greece and Czech Republic national teams. The most impressive victory in the preparation games was achieved in the traditional Acropolis Tournament. Lithuania was competing for this honorable trophy for the fourth time. Lithuanians overcome Italy, Brazil squads and lost to Greece 64–65. Though, Italy victory over Greece gave the trophy to the Lithuania national team for the first time. The team also competed in the six-teams Golden Ball competition, held in Belgrade. Lithuanians were defeated by the host team once again – Serbia national team, taking the second place. Then Lithuania played two games in Spain and invited Sweden for the send off game. Lithuanians traveled to Athens after that mild 99–58 match in Vilnius.^[125]

Fourth start in the Olympics. Lithuania men national basketball team competed in all Olympic Games since regaining its independence, already winning three consecutive bronze medals. How will European champion Lithuania perform this year, many questioned? Will it remain among the world's elite? Will it be able to climb onto the higher stair?

Lithuanians started the Olympic Games slowly, not easily defeating the Africa champions Angola 78–63. Angola attacked with the rare 52% from the three-point line. Such percentage is rarely met in that level competitions. Later Lithuania national team also had difficulties with the Puerto Rican national team, which had the NBA and the notable European basketball clubs members. Although, the game-play was clearly improving, making 16 of 30 three-pointers (53%). Lithuanians were able to overcome them as well, this time 98–90. Then Lithuanians, in front of the 12.000 spectators, reached revenge versus the host Greek squad, crushing it 98–76. Onwards, the United States were awaiting. The team was composed of some of the biggest NBA stars of that time, including: Allen Iverson, Stephon Marbury, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Carlos Boozer, Tim Duncan, Amar'e Stoudemire and the league's future constant MVP – LeBron James. The four-year-old game also wasn't forgotten, when the Lithuanians had no time remaining to tie or to even win the game: Šarūnas Jasikevičius compulsory shot wasn't accurate back then. Will the unbeatable team lose this time, many fans asked? Before the game, USA squad won 111 games, losing only 3 in the history. During the 34th minute Ramūnas Šiškauskas overpoise the result into the Lithuania side (75–74). Though, it wasn't a straight way into the victory yet. Lithuanians overpoise the result once again when there was three minutes remaining. There Š. Jasikevičius requited with a vengeance for the Sydney: he made three-pointer with foul, making the free-throw accurately as well (85–84). Subsequently, the third three-pointer (91–87) and two accurate free-throws (93–87). And then... 94–90! That was an outstanding victory, having huge influence in the results.^[126] After that defeat, which was the second for the Team USA, Michael Wilbon, a Washington Post sportswriter, wrote:

"ATHENS, Aug. 21 -- Sarunas Jasikevicius's story is a case of, if you can't join them, beat them. The Lithuanian guard, who has never attracted the NBA offers he once dreamed of, surely got the league's full and undivided attention Saturday, when he poured in 28 points to lead his undefeated team past the United States, 94-90, the Americans' second preliminary-round defeat in one stunning week of Olympic play.

Lithuania nearly upset the U.S. team four years ago in Sydney, but Jasikevicius couldn't hit a desperation three-point shot as time expired, and the United States went on to win the gold medal. This time, the University of Maryland product made 9 of 14 shots, including 7 of 12 three-point attempts, and his 10-point barrage in 69 seconds took Lithuania from three points behind to four ahead with 1 minute 38 seconds to play."

"The United States has now suffered two losses in Olympic play for the first time."^[127]

The fifth game versus Australia, in a sporting point of view, was not significant: Lithuanians already guarantied the first spot in the group. Though, every Olympic game is important for the Lithuanians. They defeated Australia 100–85, maintaining the good shape. 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". During the quarter-finals Lithuanians easily swept China 95–75, successfully qualifying into the semi-finals.

Old, already well-known Italians awaited in the semi-final. The Lithuania national team started fair enough, winning the first quarter 17–29 and had the lead of 34–23 at the second. Though, the second quarter was lost 17–29 and the Lithuanian squad got into predicament. Although, the Lithuanians were able to tie the game in the third quarter (53–53) and even overbalance the result in the fourth (78–73), however at the end of the game the opponents played more precisely and defeated Lithuania 91–100. To this day, this is one of the most painful loses in the history of the Lithuanian basketball, which completely shattered the dreams of the never-achieved independently Olympic basketball gold. However, the semi-final was also shocking for the another basketball giant – the United States national team, losing it as well.^[128]

Olympic bronze medals game which many thought could be the Olympic basketball final previously: Lithuania versus the more than 100 times larger in population United States. It was obvious that winning versus such powerful contender for the second time in a row in such competition is hardly likely or even impossible. Lithuanians not only had to overcome the opponents on court, but also themselves mentally. Though, Lithuania was not only unaffected, but also had no intention to lose and fought very well till the end. For the most of the time, there was no clear leader in the game: the leading team was changing nine times, there also was tie six times. At the half, the United States were leading 49–44, after the third they had the advantage as well – 74–71, though at 34th minute – only 83–82. Although, the finish was more successful for the USA, winning the match 104–96 and leaving the Lithuania men national basketball team without medals for the first time in the Olympic Games history.^[128]

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.^[128]

— Saulius Štombergas, the former long-term Lithuania national basketball team captain

EuroBasket 2005

During the EuroBasket 2005, many Lithuanian basketball stars decided not to help the national team that year: Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Saulius Štombergas, Arvydas Macijauskas, Donatas Slanina and others. Though, the team had Ramūnas Šiškauskas, one of the biggest European stars of that time. The 34th European Basketball Championship, held in Serbia and Montenegro, was significant because it was the qualification into the 2006 FIBA World Championship, held in Japan.

At the beginning of the preparation, the Lithuanian squad was invited to the various tournaments in different continents: Europe, Asia, Australia. The reserve roster represented Lithuania in some of them, most remarkably winning the 2005 Stanković Continental Champions' Cup in Beijing after defeating 4 of the 5 opponents.^[129]

The main squad firstly played the preparation games in Vilnius, then in the Balkans – Podgorica. On September 1, 2005 during the preparation game Lithuania achieved the 600th victory in the team's history, after defeating the Ireland national team 97–62 in Kaunas. The last international tournament in which Lithuania participated before the main competition was the Federations SuperCup, which the Lithuanian team won as well. The squad traveled to Serbia and Montenegro after it.^[130]

Lithuanians started the competition as champions, defeating the three capable teams: Turkey, Croatia and Bulgaria with solid differences. Lithuania averaged 88 points per game in the first stage. Although, the quarter-finals game significance (playing for the awards or losing all the chances in them) has done its job. Lithuanians scored only 47 points versus France, not surprisingly losing the game, the hopes of the desired awards and the European champions title. 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".^[131] The only consolation was the remaining opportunity to qualify into the World Championship. Lithuanians qualified into it by not lowering their hands after the bitter defeat and overcoming the Russian and the Slovenian national teams, taking the fifth place.^[132][133] Lithuania won 5 of 6 games in the tournament. Consequently, the competition scheme was questioned in its reliability.^[134]

FIBA World Championship 2006

In the 2006 FIBA World Championship, Lithuania finished 7th. This equaled their best ever finish, achieved in 1998, but some saw this as an under-achievement.

They started the tournament with a narrow 2-point loss to Turkey. In their second match they lost to, eventual finalists, Greece in overtime. In that game they made 25 turnovers, which was one of a couple of matches where they made a large number of mistakes. Their third game against Qatar was an easy victory 106–65. This restored some confidence ahead of the must-win match against Australia, as they won it 78–57. Their last group match against Brazil was close in the end, as Brazil lost it by 5 points 79–74. This ensured Lithuania's advance to the eighth-finals to face 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.^[135]

Sireika resigned soon after the championship. On 28 December 2006, Ramūnas Butautas was announced as the new coach of the team.

EuroBasket 2007

Ramūnas Butautas, the son of Stepas Butautas, started coaching the Lithuania national team in 2007. That year was responsible for Lithuania. It was the European Championship year. Everyone were waiting for the answers to at least two questions: did the 2003 European champion Lithuania failure in EuroBasket 2005 was just a coincidence and will the team will be able to qualify into the 2008 Summer Olympics, held in Beijing. Qualifying into the Olympics became more difficult that year. In order to do that, Lithuanians had to become one of the tournament medalists. Biggest Lithuanian basketball stars returned to the squad.

First international friendly game was played in the newly built Šiauliai Arena. It also was the first international game for the Lithuania national team in the The Sun City. Though, the debut ended up with a big surprise. Lithuania lost to Sweden with result 62–69. Further preparation games were variable for Lithuania as well. The national team took second spot in the four-team friendly tournament, held in Riga, after fractionally losing to the host team 83–84. Then they defeated Russia 76–66 in Vilnius and lost to the world champions twice in Spain. The Lithuanian squad also competed in the Acropolis Tournament for the fifth time in history and also achieved the second place after losing to the host team again, this time to the Greece national team 71–78. Successful late friendly games gave the positive hopes that the answers to the most concern questions will be affirmative.^[136]

Lithuania national team perfectly started the EuroBasket 2007. Firstly, they left no chances to the mighty Turks, crushing them 86–69,^[138] then they swept Czechs as well (95–75).^[139] The powerful Germany national team were tougher opponents. After first two quarters it was thought that the opponent is feared without reason: Lithuanians were winning 49–32. Although, the Germans, led by the National Basketball Association star Dirk Nowitzki, cut down the deficit by six points in the third quarter and by seven points in the fourth quarter. At the end of the game, the anxiety shadow was already approaching, however everything ended up smoothly for the Lithuanians, winning the game 84–80, despite the twenty-eight Dirk Nowitzki points.^[140] Lithuanians successfully qualified into the second stage.

At the eight-finals group, the first game versus the Italy national team, which is never defeated easily (or even insurmountable in the significant games), was awaiting. Before the start of the game, Rimantas Kaukėnas, fearing not to lose, said: "In Italy everyone have impression that the Lithuanian basketball is of a very high level. Italians are assessing us even more than their own national team, although they also believe that they can defeat any team as well". Lithuanians started the first quarter successfully, winning it 20–13, though the second quarter was better for the Italian squad (20–26). At the half, the result was 40–39. Third quarter was played equally (22–22) and the fate of the game was to be decided in the last quarter. This time the Lithuanian squad finished more accurately and celebrated the uneasy victory 79–74.^[141] Further Lithuanians faced the French national team with one of the best NBA players – Tony Parker. Gladly, the Lithuanian squad packed solid lead (29–14) in the second quarter and prevented it from decreasing.^[142] Basket News, a French magazine, wrote: "Lithuania. The unforgettable players, the unforgettable team. The unforgettable lesson. Lithuanians are coming back. Full of the crazy energy and delicate beauty, with militant attitude and flying like the set off wild horses, jumping with the huge leaps. With a appearance equivalent to the Swiss Guards". Later Lithuanians easily swept Slovenians 80–61.^[143]

At the quarter-finals Lithuania got a formally weaker opponent – the Croatia national team, however this, one of the strongest European teams, is never easily conquered. Just like in the game versus Lithuania. Only at the second quarter a bit solider advantage was reached, winning it 21–16, however the result at the half was only 38–35. Lithuanians failed to secure the advantage in the third quarter, losing it 15–20 and had the deficit of 53–55. Gladly, the game was once again finished astonishingly great, winning it 74–72.^[144] It was the seventh straight victory, widely opening the gates to the semi-final game. Though, the exhausting quarter-final game versus Croatia left not only the joy of victory, but also the mental and the physical fatigue.

Russians were awaiting at the semi-finals. The Lithuanians, who previously defeated the Russian squad not once, failed to accomplish this again. After the first six minutes, the Russians had 18–3 lead, after thirteen minutes – even 33–14. Though, the Lithuanians are never giving up: at the middle of the third quarter the deficit was gone – 52–52. Although, the mental and the physical powers limit was reached, especially playing against the such powerful adversary. Lithuanians lost the game, despite the restless efforts of the team's captain Ramūnas Šiškauskas, who scored 30 points. Yet it wasn't enough.^[145] Following the game, he said: "They played better", while the Šarūnas Jasikevičius added: "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".^[146]

The game for the European bronze. Lithuania never had such, winning the gold three times and the silver twice. Not only the bronze, but also the upcoming Beijing Olympic Games were also attracting, which were only accessible after winning the medals. The Greeks were seeking just for the same. Though, the victory was accomplished by the Lithuanians 78–69.^[147][148] On September 17 the meeting ceremony was organized in Vilnius. The players also received the state awards.^[149] After the tournament, the French magazine Basket News published another article:

"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?"^[150]

2008 Summer Olympic Games (Beijing 2008)

Winning the third place game at EuroBasket 2007 against Greece allowed Lithuania to qualify for the Olympic basketball tournament at Beijing 2008 without competition at 2008 Pre-Olympics Tournament. Lithuania men's national basketball team qualified into the five from five straight Olympic Games since regaining the country's independence in 1990. First three appearances ended up almost perfectly – Lithuanians won the three consecutive bronze medals, though the 2004 Summer Olympics ended up with the less fortune, taking the fourth place. Will the national basketball team again bring the Olympic medals or not, many fans questioned?

Though, the 2008 Olympic Games started not on the basketball court first, but in the Cleveland Cavaliers office where the rivalries for the NBA All-Star Žydrūnas Ilgauskas participation in the Olympics began. The Big Z wished to join the Lithuanian squad, but the Cavs did not wished to let him due to his injury history. Consequently, they requested the ineffable 22 million dollars insurance, which they thought will be unreachable for the Lithuanian Basketball Federation. Still, the patriotic LKF found a insurer which promised to insure him with the such countless amount.^[151] Yet, the Cavaliers still did not gave him the permission to play in the Olympics for his Homeland.^[152] This event and the Cavs attitude towards it still causes the Lithuanians aversion in Cavaliers. Furthermore, this was the last major negotiation for the Žydrūnas Ilgauskas participation in the national team activities. Despite being born in Lithuania and the career beginning in it, during his whole playing time he never represented the Lithuania national team in the key competitions.

The preparation for the tournament was a little bit different this time: Lithuania didn't competed in any international tournaments as before. Instead, they played 9 friendly games, winning 7 of them. Lithuanians lost to Spain and the United States.^[153]

The 2008 Summer Olympic Games began right away with a powerful contender – Argentina national team, which shockingly accomplished the gold medals at 2004 Summer Olympics. A few weeks before, Lithuanians easily defeated the Argentine squad 94–75. Though, after the intensive trainings and preparations, the game-play was different for the both teams. Lithuanians won the first half 34–30 and at the fourth quarter they even had the lead of 68–57, then 73–62. Although, the well-known Argentine team's players character and capability didn't gave any peace or the smell of the victory. With the just 18 seconds remaining, the game tied at 75–75. Lithuanians got the ball and Linas Kleiza knockdown the outstanding shot, giving the lead and the victory for Lithuanians 79–75 over the Olympic champions. Second contenders were the Asia representatives – Iran national team. The game took place early in the morning. Surprisingly, Lithuania national team lost the first quarter 15–20. Though, then Lithuanians obviously shown their advantage, crushing them 99–67. Third opponent wasn't easier in any way than the first one – the current European champions Russian national team, which overcome the Lithuania national team at the semi-final a year ago. Lithuanians were seeking for a revenge. And reached it. Though, the match wasn't easy. Lithuanian squad lost the first quarter 23–24, however they won the second and the third quarters and had the lead of 69–62. The fourth quarter ended up with a tie, still Lithuanians celebrated their third straight victory: 86–79. They were seeking for the leaders spot in the group. Croatia national team, against which the games are never easy, tried to stop this successful yellow-green-reds journey beginning. Lithuanians overbalanced the result for the first time only in the third quarter (52–51). However since then, they didn't stopped and overcome Croatians 86–73. The Lithuania national team guaranteed the first spot and the last game versus the Australia national team didn't had any influence in it anymore. Maybe because of that the Lithuanians were just unrecognizable. They totally made 25 turnovers and were smashed 75–106. Yet they remained as the strongest team in the group and qualified for the quarter-finals.^[154]

The deadly quarter-final, completely dividing the eight strongest teams, was overcome easily this time versus the China national team. The game was observed by the eighteen thousand spectators. During it, Lithuanians defended the China's megastar Yao Ming well and the former and future Lithuania national team head coach Jonas Kazlauskas failed to find any other antidotes. China was crushed 94–68 and Lithuanians, led by Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Linas Kleiza, advanced into the semi-finals.

Though, the semi-final was tough as always. Lithuanians faced the mighty Spanish national team. The victory value was huge: a guaranteed silvers medals and the dreamed Olympic final with the chances for the precious Olympic gold medals. Lithuanians also wished the rematch for the 66–91 shellacking a month ago. Nothing similar to this game was seen this time. Lithuanians undoubtedly played as one of the most powerful team in the world. At the half, Lithuanians had the lead of 42–40, after the third: 66–62. At the fourth they still had the minimal advantage (74–73). Though, at the end of the game, Lithuanians lacked the big man input and run out of energy playing with the powerful contender. Semi-final was lost honorably: 86–91. Head coach Ramūnas Butautas said that the game-play was good and that there is no need to be disappointed.^[155]

Fifth consecutive Olympic bronze medals game awaited. Lithuania won three previously. The fifth battle for it was versus the former Olympic champions Argentine squad. Though, the main Lithuania national team players were already exhausted not only physically, but also mentally after the painful semi-final. Experienced and capable contender quickly took advantage of it. The fate of the game was already decided in the third quarter, when Lithuanians were trailing 67–49. They reduced the deficit in the fourth, however it wasn't enough. Lithuania national team lost second straight Olympic bronze medals game 75–87. However, the Lithuanians, who took the fourth place in the world's primary basketball competition, still remained as one of the strongest teams of this, valuable for Lithuanians, game. Five consecutive Olympic semi-finals was quite a good performance for a such tiny 3 millions country in a game which has over 0.5 billion players and is popular in more than 218 countries worldwide.^[156]

EuroBasket 2009

Before EuroBasket 2009 basketball stars like Šarūnas Jasikevičius, Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Darius Songaila, Arvydas Macijauskas, Rimantas Kaukėnas and Žydrūnas Ilgauskas decided not to help Lithuania national team. After huge losses in the team roster and point guard shortage, Lithuania started tournament with a loss to Turkey (76–84). Later Lithuanians disappointingly lost to Poland and won against Bulgaria only after an excellent fourth quarter performance. Lithuania national team took third place at the group stage and qualified for the second round; however, there, Lithuania lost to Slovenia by 23 points. Second loss against Spain (70–84) complicated Lithuanians chances to qualify for the quarter-finals. Lithuania lost its final game to Serbia as well and took only 12th place. After national team fiasco coach Ramūnas Butautas left team. It is regarded as the worst Lithuania national team EuroBasket performance ever.

FIBA World Championship 2010

On 12 December 2009, Lithuania was granted a wild card to participate in the World Championship in Turkey the following year.^[157]

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 till the final buzzer, which signaled Lithuania's victory 92–79. The second game was against Canada. After reducing the 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.

Victory against Spain ensured Lithuania's qualification to the eighth finals. Lithuania's next match was against France, which held a perfect 3–0 record. France 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. The French were forced into second place as Lithuanians took Group D's leadership spot. Lithuania won the last game against Lebanon without much difficulty 84–66 and finished with a perfect 5–0 record in the preliminary round.

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.

Doug Smith, a sports reporter for the Toronto Star, on August 29, 2010 article wrote:

"IZMIR, TURKEY—They come by the thousands always, with their gold, red and green flags and their drums and their uniforms and their songs and their chants. And their passion.

First and foremost, their passion. They are as recognizable to the global basketball community as any player has ever been. The wildly enthusiastic Lithuanian fans follow their team and the sport with a fervor possibly unmatched in any sport anywhere.

It is, in many ways, what defines the nation."

"There are an estimated 5,000 fans here to follow the team at the world championship and anyone who saw any part of Lithuania’s 70-68 win over Canada on Sunday knows what a ruckus they can make. They are loud and boisterous and colourful. And fun." ^[158]

EuroBasket 2011

It was the second EuroBasket tournament Lithuania hosted after 72 years. By numerous officials and other European basketball specialists and pundits, it was regarded as the best EuroBasket organized ever. Though it certainly wasn't the best for the domestic team, which finished in 5th – respectable, but, according to many Lithuanian fans, an overwhelmingly disappointing place. Lithuanian point guard star Šarūnas Jasikevičius pointed out that this championship will be remembered for the tragic loss in the quarterfinals against Macedonian national team. The only consolation being, secured place for the 2012 Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

The effort to mould future prospects and the past stars was counterproductive. It wasn't that supersonic team, sweeping everyone in the last year's FIBA World Championship, but rather arrhythmic body, which in the end yielded to relentless national pressure and unfounded expectations. Lithuania national team also suffered badly from injuries that year. On February 3, 2011 Lithuanian biggest star Linas Kleiza suffered serious knee injury,^[159] a few months later another starting line-up player Jonas Mačiulis suffered knee injury as well.^[160] Both of them had to miss the championship. After first three tournament games, pulmonary embolism was diagnosed to Marijonas Petravičius who had to not only miss the rest of the tournament,^[161] but also to end his professional career due to this disease.^[162]

At the end of EuroBasket 2011, Sovsport.ru special correspondent wrote:

"Our special correspondent visited green people planet and after gaining some knowledge from the aliens returned to Earth."

"I haven't seen anything similar to this. It seemed that I was in other planet. Even theoretically I have no clue where it is possible to observe such sight. Probably many things should coincide together that sport branch would become a real religion in one country."

"In Lithuania, in every advertisement board there is a basketball ball or a basketball net. It doesn't matter what item is advertised - bank, mobile operator or a vegetable cutter. Everybody wants to advertise this way. You will not even eat a chocolate bar without encountering Simas Jasaitis face on it."

"England is going crazy for football? But also for rugby, cricket, academic rowing... In England, it is far from the perspective when every boy wants to become a John Terry, who is strongly outperformed by Šarūnas Jasikevičius in Lithuania."

"Brazil is going crazy for football? But I never heard that they have decided to dress up Jesus Christ statue in Rio de Janeiro with a yellow champions jersey. While in Klaipėda, during the European championship, the monuments looked different, despite the fact that the national team played their games in Panevėžys."

"Lithuanians hanged 40 meter height basket decorated with 545 lights on Vilnius TV Tower. It is interesting whenever Russia has plans how to decorate Ostakino Tower during 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi or the 2018 World Football Championship? Are you able to imagine such installments in our country like football gates instead of the mausoleum, video projection on Saint Basil's Cathedral? Me either."

"Even when Darius Songaila made that stupid assist in his side of the court, which resulted in lethal Macedonians three-pointer during the last seconds, Lithuanians still had a theoretical chance in the quarterfinals game, however the Lithuanians, who discuss national basketball team roster in flowerbed, parliaments and in homes, family councils, intuitively feel the game, was already crying, some were leaving Žalgiris Arena rostrums.

Without a doubt, they were leaving to devastate the city in next couple hours. Not the richest championship country invested such amount of money and everything sorted out just like that. I would say, I started to feel the smell of site of a fire.

I started to worry less about the wrath of the nation only during the after game press conference when one of the main lose culprit - Kęstutis Kemzūra was given only one extra question. In our country, he would have been torn into shreds, but there, they spared and understood. In a nation where every housewife is a Kęstutis Kemzūra and every taxi driver knows that number 11 is not the number of football players in the team, but the number of Jonas Valančiūnas."

"Of course, the fans understood that Olympic interest game is waiting for them after next couple of hours and losing it would result in farewell of the 2012 London Olympics. Because of this, when Darius Songaila boarded the bus after the game and threw water bottle with a large force into the floor and completely disappointed hit the window, not a single fan cursed him. The crowd was quiet, the crowd sympathized.

Kaunas withstood, there was no pogroms. Kaunas was sinking the sorrow. Firstly - quietly in homes, bars, soon - in Laisvės alėja, the longest pedestrian street in Europe. After a long day, about midnight, when we were having a dinner with my colleagues in a local pizzeria, legendary Sabas came in.

A little bit fluctuating, which looked quite dangerous, keeping in mind his height, but not a single Lithuanian fan was brave enough to come near him or shout something. Everybody understood that everybody, even him, was permeated with sorrow. Of course we, cynical media strain, stopped the quiet by saying: "Arvydas, how?". Upon his answering he only helplessly spread wide his huge hands..."

"That night the police haven't recorded a single crime, despite the fact that the city was sighing until the morning, until losing of memory and until forgetting why the toot started."

"When in our country the best national team player is scolded from the rostrums, in Lithuania it is not even possible to dream about that in any cases."

"In Lithuania it is not possible to become a basketball fan, they don't support the national team. They just love it. And we all know that everybody forgives everything to their beloveds. Because of this, the next day after Lithuania fiasco, I noticed that the shopping center Kaunas "AKROPOLIS" is dead, including the shopkeepers. Then I understood that it is the final minutes of the Lithuania and Slovenia game.

Everybody - old, young, children were near a huge TV in the lobby. It was possible to steal any jewels from shops without much effort because all the shopkeepers left their workplaces, but there also was no thieves. Everybody was stiff and was waiting for the news who will get the ticket to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament."

"The host team won. Many future victories are waiting for her. Such team will win without any doubts. Because every boy dreams of becoming a Šarūnas Jasikevičius not for the money, but they just want to be loved just LIKE THAT by the whole nation." ^[163]

2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament

The 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men was a men's basketball tournament that consisted of twelve national teams, wherein the top three teams earned a place in the 2012 Olympics basketball tournament. It was held on 2–8 July 2012 in Caracas, Venezuela.

The team started off the tournament with a convincing victory against Venezuela. Although Lithuania lost against Nigeria the following day, it finished first in its group because of the goal average, which turned out in Lithuania's favor. Due to the goal averages, Lithuania's loss to Nigeria worked against Venezuela; the team didn't qualify to the quarterfinals. Thus, there were rumors that Lithuania incurred the wrath of Venezuelans and that they're trying to intentionally harm the Lithuania national team. A few events, such as a tank column near the training hall polluting the air during the Lithuanian team workout,^[164][165] a broken bus during the trip to the arena before the quarter-final game against Puerto Rico,^[166] vanished jerseys and water before the same game against Puerto Rico, started the rumors. Despite all that, Lithuania managed to defeat Puerto Rico in a dramatic game.^[167] In the semifinals, Lithuania crushed the Dominican Republic and thus qualified for the 2012 London Olympics.^[168]

2012 Summer Olympic Games (London 2012)

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 team 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. 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 in the game against Nigeria. Playing exemplary defense against the Nigerian bigs Al-Farouq Aminu and Ike Diogu, Lithuania avenged themselves for the only loss in the Qualifying Tournament. Next, Lithuania faced France, a team that utilized Tony Parker and Boris Diaw to the fullest to win the game 74–82. The following game was against USA, a team that had previously crushed Nigeria by a record-setting margin. Right from the beginning, Lithuania proved to be a tough opponent for Team USA - it was 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 led Team USA forward in the final moments of the game to win it 94–99. NBA player Linas Kleiza and former Duke player Martynas Pocius led Team Lithuania's failed attempt to upset Team USA. After near lose of Team USA, Marc Stein, a ESPN journalist, wrote:

"You'd have expected them to anticipate nothing less, but the NBA superstars in red, white and mostly blue ran into their old friends from the Baltics here Saturday afternoon and quickly learned something about 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, no less than a dozen years removed from those two scares the Lithuanians sprang on Team USA at the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney."^[169]

Despite its third loss in the tournament, Lithuania still had a chance to qualify to the quarterfinal round by winning against Tunisia, which it did 63–76. Thus, Lithuania qualified for the quarterfinals by capturing the last spot in the group stage. In the quarterfinal round, Lithuania faced off Russia in a close game. From the very start of the game Russia kept ahead of Lithuania by a couple of points. Although Lithuania attempted to take the lead several times throughout the course of the game (most notably cutting the lead down to one point early in the fourth quarter), it never succeeded, and ended up losing 74–83. Incidentally, Lithuanian 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.^[170] Songaila and Kaukėnas agreed, and all three retired from the national team after the tournament. On 1 October, the Lithuanian Basketball Federation chose Jonas Kazlauskas to replace Kęstutis Kemzūra.^[171]

EuroBasket 2013

On October 1, 2012, coach Jonas Kazlauskas returned to Lithuania national team after more than twelve years.^[172] On September 2, 2013, just before the flight to Slovenia, airplane engine problem was diagnosed. Luckily, the plane was still on the ground, however the national team had to delay their flight until the next day.^[173] As a consequence, Lithuania lost their morning workout in Podmežakla Hall. Just one day later, Lithuania played their first EuroBasket 2013 game against Serbia. Despite all the discussions that Lithuania has the strongest big mans combination in the championship, Lithuanians were unable to defend Serbian’s star Nenad Krstić, who dominated the game with 20 points, 9 rebounds and led Serbia to their first victory with result 63–56.^[174] Second game was against Macedonia. After painful loss in EuroBasket 2011 quarter-finals, Lithuanians were seeking for revenge this time. From the beginning efficient defense against Bo McCalebb was played and as a result Lithuanians celebrated their first tournament victory with result 75–67.^[175] Third game was against fellow Balts – Latvians. Before the competition, Latvians were described as group outsiders, however they proved that they aren’t outsiders after winning their first two games. Lithuania won against Latvia only after a tough battle with result 67–59.^[176] Fourth game was against Montenegro. It was another thriller with happy ending for Lithuania national team, which won only after OT with result 77:70.^[177] Kšyštof Lavrinovič, who only scored 2 points during his first three matches, led Lithuania squad during that game despite his unsuccessful tournament start by scoring 24 points with impressive shooting percent. Fifth game was against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Lithuanians were able to even lose the game by not more than 9 points. Despite almost guaranteed ticket to the second stage, Bosnian's star Mirza Teletović almost turned everything into fiasco with 31 points and fantastic three-pointers. During the middle of fourth quarter, Lithuanians had 16 points deficit (58–74). Linas Kleiza helped Lithuania during this critical moment by hitting two three pointers and saving Lithuanians medal hopes. Lithuania lost the game with result 72–78, but qualified into the second stage with 2nd place in the group after Serbia.^[178]

Second round started with game against former Europe vice-champions France, led by Tony Parker. Despite French being favorites of the game, Lithuanians played solid defense, especially against French biggest star Tony Parker, and won the game with result 76–62.^[179] Then Lithuanians easily crushed Belgium 86–67^[180] and narrowly defeated Ukraine with result 70–63.^[181] After successful second stage, in the quarter-finals Lithuanians met Italy, which crushed Lithuanians dreams of Olympic Gold medals during 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. After an impressively tenacious 40 minutes game Lithuanians advanced to the semi-finals with result 81–77.^[182] Lithuanians easily crushed Croatia in the semi-finals with result 77–62 and advanced to the finals.^[183] Jonas Mačiulis, Linas Kleiza and Mantas Kalnietis led Lithuania with 63 points combined, while rest of the team scored only 14. In the finals Lithuania faced previously defeated France. Despite former win in the group stage and all the hopes of becoming European champions after 10 years again, Lithuanians only fought point-to-point in the first quarter. Lithuania lost the final with result 66–80.^[184] Despite successful championship some players said that it's hard to celebrate after losing the final.^[185][186] On 23 September 2013, thousands of Lithuanians came to Rotušės square to celebrate Lithuania national team success.^[187]

Notable players

Notable Lithuania national basketball team members

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 was Team USA captain during 1936 Summer Olympics.
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 dribble and passing of that time.
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 Lithuania national basketball team after restoring independence in 1992.
Arvydas Sabonis	Center	1992, 1995–1996, 1999	20.00	11.4	2.2	One of the best known Lithuanian basketball players that helped Lithuania to win two bronze medals at the Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996 Olympics and was one of the key players in 1995 European Championships where Lithuania won silver. He was a large contributor to the successful Portland Blazers teams from 1995–2003. He was inducted into the FIBA and Naismith Hall of Fame.
Šarūnas Marčiulionis	Point guard Shooting guard	1992, 1995–1996	20.15	4.1	6.4	One of the key players in the Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996 Olympics and 1995 European Championships. 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 Naismith 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 which participated in the NBA All-Star Three Point Contest.
Valdemaras Chomičius	Point guard	1992, 1995	10.30	1.2	1.6	Famous 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. He was a member of Lithuania team in EuroBasket 2003, where Lithuania won gold medals; he also was Žalgiris member in 1999 when they won the Euroleague tournament.
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 and was named MVP of that tournament. He also led Lithuania in a notable win against Team USA in 2004 Summer Olympics; he scored 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. He was even called 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 and one of the key players in EuroBasket 2003. Frequently he was called as a Kalashnikov for his impressive ability to score points.
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	5.5	4	0.5	A long time Lithuania national basketball team captain notable for his efficient defense and devotion to the team (i.e. playing despite pain and various injuries during the championships). Javtokas is also famous for repeating the world dunking record. In 2001, he dunked into 3.65 meter height basket.
Linas Kleiza	Power forward	2006–2010, 2012-2013	12.7	5.6	1.1	Led the team in FIBA World Championship 2010 and Summer Olympics 2012. Kleiza is also famous for scoring the most points in a single NBA game in Lithuania history. On January 17, 2008, Kleiza scored 41 points against the Utah Jazz.[188] In 2013, Kleiza signed with Fenerbahçe Ülker and became the most expensive player in Turkish Basketball League history.[189] That season he was the best paid basketball player in Europe.[190]
Mantas Kalnietis	Point guard Shooting guard	2006, 2009–2013	9.3	2.8	3.2	Led the team in EuroBasket 2013, being tournament leader in assists.
Jonas Valančiūnas	Center	2011–2014	6.7	4.5	0.9	The first major star to have been 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 highest ever NBA drafted Lithuanian basketball player in history. In the 2011 NBA Draft, Raptors selected him #5. The same year he debuted in Lithuania men's national team and was one of the key players in EuroBasket 2011.
Donatas Motiejūnas	Power forward Center	2013-2014	4.8	2.2	0.2	One of the highest ever NBA drafted Lithuanian basketball player. In 2011 NBA Draft, Minnesota Timberwolves selected him #20. 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

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.
Stepas Butautas	1944–1956	Soviet Union occupation	Legendary Žalgiris and Lithuania player, coach. He won Olympic silver medal in 1952 and three EuroBasket gold medals (1947, 1951, 1953). He was named as one of FIBA's 50 Greatest Players in the history.
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 was nicknamed as the second Lubinas. Although, he often suffered from the occupations 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, he never represented it just because it was forbidden to take him into the foreign countries due to his biography.[56][191]
Justinas Lagunavičius	1944–1957	Soviet Union occupation	Olympic silver medalist in 1952 and three times EuroBasket gold medalist (1947, 1951, 1953).
Kazimieras Petkevičius	1945–1962	Soviet Union occupation	Legendary Žalgiris and Lithuania player, coach. Petkevičius won Olympic silver medals twice in 1952 and 1956, he also won EuroBasket gold medal in EuroBasket 1947 and bronze medal in EuroBasket 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 1957 gold medalist and bronze medalist in EuroBasket 1955.
Modestas Paulauskas	1962–1976	Soviet Union occupation	One of the best Lithuanian basketball player ever. Paulauskas won Olympic gold medal in 1972, bronze medal in 1968, became World champion twice in 1967, 1974, won EuroBasket four times: 1965, 1967, 1969, 1971 and bronze medal in 1973. He also was named Most Valuable Player of EuroBasket 1965. Later on, Paulauskas was named as one of FIBA's 50 Greatest Players in the history.
Gediminas Budnikas	1964–1973	Soviet Union occupation	Notable Žalgiris big man, he was also invited to Soviet Union national basketball team together with Modestas Paulauskas, but never represented Soviet Union and Žalgiris in foreign countries (except USSR members) just because both of his parents were members of the armed anti-Soviet resistance movement.[192]
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. He also was invited to Soviet Union national basketball team to participate in FIBA championships, but has not been taken just because he was born in Siberia where his parents were deported.[193]
Algimantas Pavilonis	1973–1985	Soviet Union occupation	Legendary Statyba player. LKF president in 1994-2001.[194]
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas	1994–2011	Personal circumstances, injuries	One of the most successful Lithuanian NBA player ever. Ilgauskas is the first Lithuanian to participate in NBA All-Star game as he was elected to NBA All-Star game twice (2003, 2005). Despite impressive NBA career, he never played for Lithuania national team in official tournaments due to various personal circumstances or injuries. In 2008, he showed decent interest in playing for Lithuania national team during 2008 Summer Olympics, Lithuanian Basketball Federation even found insurer which promised to insure him with 22 million dollars insurance, as requested by the Cleveland Cavaliers.[195] And when everything seemed to be solved, Cavaliers still did not permit him to join the Lithuania national team due to injuries history.[152] His #11 jersey was retired by the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 8, 2014, being only third European to be honored this way.[196]

Notable Lithuanian descent basketball players

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.	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 both win NBA championships as players.
Tony Kaseta	?–?	Center	Former PBLA and NBL player.
Rick Barry	1965–1980	Small forward	NBA winner in 1975 and Finals MVP. Eight times NBA All-Star Game and four times ABA All-Star Game participant. Barry was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in history by the NBA in 1996, he 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. In 1987, Barry was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Matt Guokas	1966–1976	Shooting guard Small forward	Former NBA player. NBA champion in 1967. Son of Matt Guokas, Sr.
Joe Arlauckas	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 according to that time basketball citizenship rules, he had to play three years in Lithuania.[197]
Chuck Aleksinas	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	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.".[198]
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.

Notable coaches and assistants

There have been a number of notable coaches in Lithuania national basketball team.

• Konstantinas Savickas – coach from 1935, until transferring his post to Kriaučiūnas just before EuroBasket 1937.
• Feliksas Kriaučiūnas – player-coach during 1937 and 1939 European championships.
• Pranas Lubinas – player-coach for Lithuania basketball team during 1939 European championship.
• Vladas Garastas – coach for Lithuania basketball team for Olympics of 1992 and 1996, for European championship of 1995.
• Jonas Kazlauskas – coach for Sydney 2000 Olympics and couple of European championships (1997, 1999, 2001) and for World championship 1998. He returned to the national team in EuroBasket 2013. Lithuania won silver medals that year.
• Antanas Sireika – coach for Athens 2004 Olympics and for golden European championship of 2003, later for EC 2005 and World championship 2006.
• Ramūnas Butautas – coach for Beijing 2008 Olympics, also won bronze medal in EC 2007 and underachieved in EC 2009.
• Kęstutis Kemzūra – coach for team which won bronze medal in World championship 2010.

There have been couple of notable assistants for Lithuania basketball team.

• Javier Imbroda helped Lithuania earn its first medal shortly after independence at Barcelona 1992 Olympics.
• Donnie Nelson an American coach that helped Lithuania for many years in various tournaments. After the near loss of team USA at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Nelson declared that he would never help Lithuania in matches against USA.
• 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.

Lithuania national team fans and their chants, flags

Lithuania men's national basketball team fans often are the biggest fans group in every competition the team participates in (excluding the championship's host country fans). Thousands of Lithuanians travel with the team every year to support it, no matter in which continent the team competes in. They decorate with the country's national colors: yellow, green and red.^[199] The Lithuania national basketball team fans also often displays huge flags in order to cheer up the national team players. Most frequently it is the modern flag variant or the historical Vytis variant.^[200][201] 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.

• 

  Modern
• 

  Historical (Vytis)
• 

  Šarūnas Jasikevičius
• 

  Arvydas Macijauskas
• 

  Linas Kleiza
• 

  Mantas Kalnietis
  (also could be Kalnietis)
• 

  Jonas Valančiūnas
  (or Jonas Mačiulis)
• 

  Donatas Motiejūnas

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.^[202] Other major chants are "LIE-TU-VA" (country's name in the native language) and singing of the popular Lithuanian folk daina "Ant kalno mūrai" (English: Masonries on the hill).^[203] 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).^[204]

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).^[205]

De facto Lithuania national basketball team song

	"Trys Milijonai" (2000) Often regarded as Lithuanian sport (especially basketball) anthem
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Trys Milijonai is de facto considered as the Lithuania national basketball team song. Originally, it was written in 2000 to accompany the sporting events broadcasts from the Sydney olympics, both on radio and on television.

Spun off from its success during 2000 Olympics, the song still retained its high popularity through 2002. 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

The first Lithuania men's national basketball team had two uniform's variants: light ones with white sleeveless t-shirts and dark green shorts, other (dark) variant had dark green t-shirts and dark green shorts. Both of these variants at the front of the t-shirts had the country's name written in the native language (LIETUVA), under it it had red circle with one of the interwar interpretations of Vytis. This spot nowadays is used for the general sponsors logos.

During the first competition after regaining the country's independence in 1992, Lithuanians recovered their historical jerseys colors again: whites ones and dark green ones. Though, this time it had the modern flag colors lines around necks, shoulders and at the sides embroidered. Light variant had country's name written in red color, while the dark variant had it written in white color. It was manufactured by Reebok^[206] This uniforms design was used till 1997.

In 1997 Nike replaced Reebok and is the Lithuania's uniforms and other kit parts supplier till the nowadays.^[207] Consequently, the design of the team's jerseys changed as well. The dark variant received the lighter and the less shiny dark color tint and instead of the Lithuania's modern flag colors lines around necks and shoulders – simple white lines were used. Country's name remained written in white. This type uniforms were used till the 2000 Summer Olympics.

In 2000 the national team's uniforms were updated. Modern Lithuanian flag was used for the first time in the team's jersey's design. It was printed near the left shoulder, close to the player's hearts. Another trait which firmly distinguishes these years uniforms is the green circle with the player's numbers at the front side.

Though, in 2003 the national team's uniform's designers reverted back to the 90s style. These probably were the most simplified national team's uniforms ever designed. Modern Lithuanian flag was not used that year. Furthermore, Lithuania's name was written in a small font and was barely visible from the further distances. Despite that, these uniforms also are one of the most iconic ones because the national team won the EuroBasket for the third time wearing them.^[208]

In 2004 the national team's jerseys received major update. Country's name was greatly enlarged and the modern Lithuania flag was returned near the left shoulder. Green (dark) variant had yellow-red sides and the white (light) variant had yellow-green sides. On the dark variant the country's name was written in yellow color, while on the light variant it was written in green. Similar design jerseys with minor changes are used till the nowadays.

In 2010 jerseys received minor update. Both (dark and light) variants had basketball nets printed on their backs.^[209] Another notable update was done to the dark variant in which the red color was not used anymore, making the Lithuanians jerseys similar to the Brazil national team's jerseys. The only significant difference between them was the slightly different green color tone. Red color was never returned to the dark uniforms's variant since 2009 and is poorly used only in the small modern Lithuanian flag near the player's shoulders and sometimes the Nike logo is printed in red.

In 2012 the team's dark uniforms became even more similar to the Brazilians ones with the removal of the basketball nets on their backs. Though, the light variant returned Vytis symbol for the first time since 1939. It was printed on the back of the jersey's with a slightly different white color tone under the player's numbers.^[210]

Vytis also remained in the silver-medals winning squad's jerseys in 2013.^[211]

In 2014 the jersey's sides were slightly updated with the addition of the yellow-green squares sides.^[212] It also remained the Vytis symbol.^[213]

General sponsors

Lithuania men's national basketball team general sponsor is the biggest team's financial supporter. The national team's general sponsor logo is printed in the most visible jersey's part – the front of the jersey, under the text "LIETUVA". Švyturys brewery is a long-time Lithuania men's national basketball team financial supporter. It has been the general sponsor of the team for years and totally designated over 15 millions LTL per 15 years for basketball.^[214] To this day, Švyturys still is one of the primary team's sponsors. The EuroBasket 2009 took place in Poland. As a result, the major Polish Orlen oil refiner and petrol retailer became the general sponsor of the team. Although, after it they decided not to continue the collaboration.^[215] Following it, Antanas Guoga betting company TonyBet wished to replace it. Though, at first the Lithuanian laws prohibited it from happening because they forbidden to advertise such companies, despite the fact that the financial supporting was not prohibited.^[216] Yet later it became the general sponsor of the team.^[217] Guoga also paid a large share of the required application fee of €500,000 for the wild-card.^[218] The team was chosen for the tournament, and won the bronze medals with the TonyBet logo on their jerseys. In 2011 TP Engineering company became the general sponsor of it.^[219] In 2013 TonyBet replaced it and the team once again won medals with TonyBet logo on its jerseys.^[220] In 2014 Vičiūnai Group signed the two-year deal with the Lithuanian Basketball Federation and became its primary financial sponsor.^[221]

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

Books

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.^[222]
• 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.^[223][224]
• 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.^[225] Complete first version of the book, released in 2009, is freely available to download at the official LKF website.^[226] The updated printed version, released in 2013, costs around 35 €.

Documentaries

There are several documentaries about the national team, the most notable one being "The Other Dream Team", starring many basketball stars. It focuses on the 1992 Barcelona Olympic team. "Mes už... Lietuvą" also gained wide approval in Lithuania. The film focuses on the experience and behind-the-scenes look of Lithuanian national team hosting the EuroBasket 2011. Vidas Mačiulis and Vytautas Gudelis book "Halė, kurioje žaidė Lubinas ir Sabonis" features Lithuania basketball history during EuroBasket 1939 and USSR occupation (1940-1990). "Lietuvos Krepšinis 1920–2004" features the most important events and players in Lithuanian basketball history.

Luke Winn, a writer for the American magazine Sports Illustrated, said in an August 2011 story that

"Basketball is the only sport the 3.2 million Lithuanians truly care about—it is their second religion, after Catholicism—and their success is proportionately stunning."^[227]

Lithuania ranks fourth in the FIBA World Rankings (5th in 2011). Putting this in perspective, Luke Winn wrote that Lithuania was at the time

"...behind countries of 313 million (the U.S.), 47 million (Spain), 40 million (Argentina) and 11 million (Greece), and just ahead of countries of 79 million (Turkey) and 61 million (Italy)."^[227]

Video games

Lithuania national basketball team was featured in NBA Live 09 and NBA Live 10 video games.^[228]

FIBA World Rankings

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
2008	6th	411	1
2009	6th	374
2010	5th	532	1
2011	5th	426
2012	5th	406
2013	4th	432	1
2014	4th	447

All time leaders

Games Rank Name NT career Games 1 Gintaras Einikis 1992–2002 106 2 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 1997–2012 104 3 Saulius Štombergas 1993–2004 99 4 Eurelijus Žukauskas 1996–2004 83 4 Robertas Javtokas 2001– 83 6 Artūras Karnišovas 1992–1999 80 7 Kšyštof Lavrinovič 2003– 76 8 Mindaugas Žukauskas 1996–2006 71 9 Darius Songaila 2000–2012 68 9 Simas Jasaitis 2005– 68 11 Linas Kleiza 2006– 62 12 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 1999–2008 60 13 Jonas Mačiulis 2007– 58 14 Darius Maskoliūnas 1995–2003 55 15 Mantas Kalnietis 2006– 53 15 Paulius Jankūnas 2005– 53 15 Darjuš Lavrinovič 2005– 53 18 Arvydas Sabonis 1992–1999 50 18 Darius Lukminas 1994–1999 50 20 Martynas Pocius 2010– 49 Last updated: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Points Rank Name NT career Total points 1 Artūras Karnišovas 1992–1999 1466 2 Saulius Štombergas 1993–2004 1084 3 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 1997–2012 1031 4 Gintaras Einikis 1992–2002 1024 5 Arvydas Sabonis 1992–1999 995 6 Linas Kleiza 2006– 785 7 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 1999–2008 772 8 Šarūnas Marčiulionis 1992–1996 685 9 Darius Songaila 2000–2012 630 10 Rimas Kurtinaitis 1992–1997 604 11 Kšyštof Lavrinovič 2003– 510 12 Arvydas Macijauskas 2002–2006 497 13 Mantas Kalnietis 2006– 491 14 Eurelijus Žukauskas 1996–2004 490 15 Robertas Javtokas 2001– 463 16 Rimantas Kaukėnas 2001–2012 443 17 Simas Jasaitis 2005– 441 18 Darjuš Lavrinovič 2005– 422 19 Darius Lukminas 1994–1999 407 20 Jonas Mačiulis 2007– 391 Last updated: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

2 points field-goals made Rank Name 2 points field-goals made 1 Gintaras Einikis 419 2 Arvydas Sabonis 320 3 Saulius Štombergas 297 4 Artūras Karnišovas 291 5 Darius Songaila 220

3 points field-goals made Rank Name 3 points field-goals made 1 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 152 2 Saulius Štombergas 130 3 Artūras Karnišovas 113 4 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 98 5 Rimas Kurtinaitis 96

Free - throws made Rank Name Free - throws made 1 Artūras Karnišovas 389 2 Arvydas Sabonis 231 3 Saulius Štombergas 216 4 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 202 4 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 201

Total rebounds Rank Name Total rebounds 1 Arvydas Sabonis 532 2 Gintaras Einikis 500 3 Eurelijus Žukauskas 400 4 Artūras Karnišovas 390 5 Saulius Štombergas 349 5 Robertas Javtokas 349

Assists Rank Name Assists 1 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 483 2 Mantas Kalnietis 214 3 Šarūnas Marčiulionis 196 4 Artūras Karnišovas 183 5 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 156

Steals Rank Name Steals 1 Saulius Štombergas 122 2 Gintaras Einikis 116 3 Šarūnas Jasikevičius 101 4 Artūras Karnišovas 100 5 Ramūnas Šiškauskas 77

Blocks

Rank	Name	Blocks
1	Eurelijus Žukauskas	58
2	Robertas Javtokas	50
3	Jonas Valančiūnas	40
4	Darjuš Lavrinovič	35
5	Arvydas Sabonis	30

Last updated: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

All time points per game (PPG)

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	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
12	Rimantas Kaukėnas	2001–2012	47	443	9.46	22	Italy	79:74	2007-09-08	EuroBasket 2007	Madrid, Spain
13	Mantas Kalnietis	2006–	53	491	9.26	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
13	Darius Songaila	2000–2012	68	630	9.26	20	Croatia	74:72	2007-09-14	EuroBasket 2007	Madrid, Spain
15	Jonas Valančiūnas	2011–	40	342	8.55	25	France	93:95	2014-09-13	World Cup 2014	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	Virginijus Praškevičius	1995–2003	41	298	7.27	25	Iceland	96:71	1998-02-28	EuroBasket Qualification 1999	Vilnius, Lithuania
20	Renaldas Seibutis	2010–	33	230	6.97	21	Australia	75:82	2014-09-02	World Cup 2014	Gran Canaria, Spain

Last updated: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Players records

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	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	12	Šarūnas Marčiulionis	China	112:75	26 July 1992	Olympic Games 1992	Barcelona, Spain
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: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Players medal leaders

Player	Lithuania career	Gold	Silver	Bronze	Total (min. 3 medals)
Einikis, GintarasGintaras Einikis	1992–2002	-			4
Štombergas, SauliusSaulius Štombergas	1993–2004				4
Marčiulionis, ŠarūnasŠarūnas Marčiulionis	1992–1996	-			3
Kurtinaitis, RimasRimas Kurtinaitis	1992–1997	-			3
Karnišovas, ArtūrasArtūras Karnišovas	1992–1999	-			3
Sabonis, ArvydasArvydas Sabonis	1992–1999	-			3
Žukauskas, EurelijusEurelijus Žukauskas	1996–2004		-		3
Šiškauskas, RamūnasRamūnas Šiškauskas	1999–2008		-		3
Jasikevičius, ŠarūnasŠarūnas Jasikevičius	1997–2012		-		3
Songaila, DariusDarius Songaila	2000–2012		-		3
Javtokas, RobertasRobertas Javtokas	2001–2013	-			3
Lavrinovič, KšyštofKšyštof Lavrinovič	2003–2013				3
Kleiza, LinasLinas Kleiza	2006–2013	-			3
Mačiulis, JonasJonas Mačiulis	2007–2013	-			3

Team records

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	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	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: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Coaches records

Manager	Lithuania career	Played	Won	Lost	Win %	Honours
Garastas, VladasVladas Garastas	1992–1997	59	45	14	76.27	2 Bronze medals: Olympic Games (1992, 1996), Silver medal: EuroBasket 1995
Kazlauskas, JonasJonas Kazlauskas	1997–2001	49	32	17	65.31	Bronze medal: Olympic Games 2000
Sireika, AntanasAntanas Sireika	2001-2006	42	33	9	78.58	Gold medal: EuroBasket 2003
Butautas, RamūnasRamūnas Butautas	2007–2009	23	14	9	60.87	Bronze medal: EuroBasket 2007
Kemzūra, Kęstutis Kęstutis Kemzūra	2009–2012	30	21	9	70.00	Bronze medal: World Championship 2010
Jonas Kazlauskas‡	2012–	20	14	6	70.00	Silver medal: EuroBasket 2013

Last updated: 2014-09-14. Statistics include official FIBA-recognized matches only.

Lithuanian players in the NBA

# Player Club(s) Games Points Seasons 1 Šarūnas Marčiulionis Golden State Warriors, Seattle SuperSonics, Sacramento Kings, Denver Nuggets 363 4631 7 2 Arvydas Sabonis Portland Trail Blazers 470 5629 7 3 Žydrūnas Ilgauskas Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat 724 10976 13 4 Darius Songaila Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, New Orleans Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers 495 3415 8 5 Linas Kleiza Denver Nuggets, Toronto Raptors 409 3561 7 6 Arvydas Macijauskas New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets 19 44 1 7 Šarūnas Jasikevičius Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors 138 933 2 8 Martynas Andriuškevičius Cleveland Cavaliers 6 0 1 9 Jonas Valančiūnas Toronto Raptors 223 2433 3 10 Donatas Motiejūnas Houston Rockets 177 1446 3

Lithuania players drafted in the NBA Draft Year Round Pick Player Drafted by Played 1986 1st #24 Arvydas Sabonis Portland Trail Blazers Yes 1987 6xt #127 Šarūnas Marčiulionis Golden State Warriors Yes 1995 2nd #54 Eurelijus Žukauskas Seattle SuperSonics No 1996 1st #20 Žydrūnas Ilgauskas Cleveland Cavaliers Yes 2001 2nd #56 Robertas Javtokas San Antonio Spurs No 2002 2nd #50 Darius Songaila Boston Celtics Yes 2005 1st #27 Linas Kleiza Portland Trail Blazers (traded to Denver Nuggets) Yes 2005 2nd #44 Martynas Andriuškevičius Orlando Magic (traded to Cleveland Cavaliers) Yes 2007 2nd #50 Renaldas Seibutis Dallas Mavericks No 2011 1st #5 Jonas Valančiūnas Toronto Raptors Yes 2011 1st #20 Donatas Motiejūnas Minnesota Timberwolves (traded to Houston Rockets) Yes

Competitive record

FIBA Basketball World Cup Year Position Pld W L 1950 to 1990 Did not participate – was occupied by the Soviet Union Canada 1994 Did not participate Greece 1998 7th 9 5 4 United States 2002 Did not participate Japan 2006 7th 9 5 4 Turkey 2010 Bronze Medal 9 8 1 Spain 2014 4th 9 6 3 Total 36 24 12 Summer Olympic Games Year Position Pld W L 1936 to 1988 Did not participate Spain 1992 Bronze Medal 8 6 2 United States 1996 Bronze Medal 8 5 3 Australia 2000 Bronze Medal 8 5 3 Greece 2004 4th 8 6 2 China 2008 4th 8 5 3 United Kingdom 2012 8th 6 2 4 Total 46 29 17 FIBA Diamond Ball Year Position Pld W L Hong Kong 2000 Did not participate Serbia and Montenegro 2004 Runner-up 3 2 1 China 2008 Did not participate Total 3 2 1

FIBA EuroBasket Year Position Pld W L Switzerland 1935 Did not participate Latvia 1937 Champions 5 5 0 Lithuania 1939 Champions 7 7 0 1946 to 1991 Did not participate – was occupied by the Soviet Union Germany 1993 Did not participate Greece 1995 Runner-up 9 7 2 Spain 1997 6th 9 5 4 France 1999 5th 9 7 2 Turkey 2001 11th 4 2 2 Sweden 2003 Champions 6 6 0 Serbia and Montenegro 2005 5th 6 5 1 Spain 2007 Bronze Medal 9 8 1 Poland 2009 11th 6 1 5 Lithuania 2011 5th 11 8 3 Slovenia 2013 Runner-up 11 8 3 Total 92 69 23 FIBA Under-19 World Championship Year Position Pld W L 1979 to 1991 Did not participate Greece 1995 5th 8 6 2 Portugal 1999 Did not participate Greece 2003 Runner-up 7 5 2 Serbia 2007 10th 8 4 4 New Zealand 2009 9th 8 5 3 Latvia 2011 Champions 9 7 2 Czech Republic 2013 Bronze Medal 9 7 2 Total 49 34 15

All-time team record

The following table shows Lithuania's all-time official FIBA international record, correct as of 14 September 2014.

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	3	2	1	67%	+23 (75:52)	-2 (83:85)
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	3	2	1	67%	+20 (95:75)	-16 (62:78)
Dominican Republic	1	1	0	100%	+26 (109:83)	-
Egypt	1	1	0	100%	+14 (21:7)	-
Estonia	7	7	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)	-
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	12	9	3	63%	+14 (41:27)	-9 (91-100)
South Korea	2	2	0	100%	+41 (97:56)	-
Latvia	6	5	1	83%	+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	11	4	7	36%	+18 (98:82)	-15 (60:75)
Slovenia	9	7	2	78%	+19 (80:61)	-23 (58:81)
Spain	9	2	7	22%	+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	5	3	2	60%	+22 (82:60)	-7 (82:89)
Venezuela	2	2	0	100%	+18 (100:82)	-
Total	236	173	64	73%

Past rosters

1937 EuroBasket: finished 1st among 8 teams

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)

2002 World Championship: did not qualify

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)

See also

• Lithuania national women's basketball team

References

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Lithuania national basketball team.

• Official website
• FIBA profile

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