One of the most promising basketball players in the country, 21-year-old 218 cm tall native of Šiauliai Motiejus Krivas first rushed into the arms of close people, and later communicated with the numerous gathered Lithuanian journalists.
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“It’s very nice to come back, especially to see family. The trip was tiring, but you see people and feel that you are in Lithuania. It’s very cool,” said M. Krivas.
During the visit, the “Wildcats” team, which reached the Final Four in the last NCAA season, will play three friendly matches with the Lithuanian national team, the reserve team, and the Ukrainian national team.
“This trip is more about figuring out what kind of team we are. These games are a great opportunity to play against some of the best basketball players. I’m really looking forward to it,” said M. Krivas. “I first told my teammates about the importance of basketball in Lithuania, that it’s like a second religion. I also told them about greenery and food. Everyone asked a lot for recommendations on what to try.”
Last season, a Kaunas “Žalgiris” system graduate averaged 10.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game.
“Basketball is a team sport, so nothing would happen without team members. The coach’s belief and work, self-analysis helped me,” said M. Krivas. “I’m very happy. This is my first normal season in the NCAA. In the first season, I didn’t play much, in the second I was injured, so this is the first normal season for me, which I’m very happy about. I came back on my feet, and with the team, we reached the Final Four. Not everyone can say they played basketball in front of 70 thousand fans. I value it very highly. I hope the upcoming season will be even better.”
– How much do you prepare for the game against the Lithuanian national team while in America?
– Of course, we are preparing, we had quite a long time in the summer to prepare. We didn’t specifically prepare too much for the opponents, we worked more on our own game. But we are preparing.
– How do you evaluate the composition of the Lithuanian national team?
– The national team is still good. Of course, the main names are missing, it’s a pity, but the players who came are still of a high level. They will give everything they can and will win those games.
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– Did you warn your teammates that the best Lithuanian basketball players will not play in these games?
– Yes, I told them that and the coaches said so. But the players gathered are also of a high level. I think the level will definitely be high.
– Were there opportunities to see your name on the candidate list?
– There was a little bit, but nothing concrete.
– Why did you decide not to enter the NBA draft after a good NCAA season?
– It wasn’t very difficult to decide. Of course, we consulted with the agent, looked at the possibilities, so staying in Arizona seemed like a better decision for now. This year’s rookie class was very strong, one of the strongest in years. Many big men were rated higher. I still have two years left in the NCAA. I have improved a lot in the first three years both as a person and as a player, so why not stay longer?
– How would you introduce LeBron’s son Bryce?
– A very good personality. As a basketball player – he has his skills, it’s definitely visible during training, but he is still a developing player. In the future, I think Bryce will be a very good player.
– Have you perhaps met LeBron himself?
– Two weeks ago he came to training, it was very unexpected and nice. We just greeted each other.
– What legacy of Ąžuolas Tubelis remains at the University of Arizona?
– We still watch Ąžuolas’ videos of how he played and especially how he ran to fast breaks. He was in Arizona at the beginning of the summer. It’s definitely felt. I’m very happy that I can continue the path of Lithuanians in Arizona.
