The leaders of the “Lithuanian Basketball” association, national team coaches, and head Linas Kleiza who participated in the meeting thoroughly examined the provided information and analyzed in detail the factors that led to the defeat against Italy.
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In an open discussion, the national team head coach Rimas Kurtinaitis was also heard, insights from his assistants and the national team staff were presented, the statement says.
Based on the collected information, the prospects for the further preparation of the national team are being evaluated.
“We are both responsible and accountable to the basketball community. We understand that the results achieved in the first qualification stage did not meet expectations. Therefore, we must seek solutions to change the situation. After detailed discussions with the national team coaches, players, and members of the Lithuanian basketball community, we see that additional time is needed to prepare final decisions. After thoroughly evaluating everything, we will present the decisions to the Executive Committee of the “Lithuanian Basketball” association, and by July 24, the decisions will be presented to the general public. Currently, both continuity and change options are being considered, with the main criteria taking into account not only positions but also the aspects of commitment and belief in the national team’s victories,” said Mindaugas Balčiūnas, president of the “Lithuanian Basketball” association.
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We remind that the Lithuanian national team suffered a painful defeat against Italy and finished the first stage of the World Championship qualifiers with 3 wins and 3 losses.
In the second stage, Lithuanians will compete with the teams of Serbia, Turkey, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to qualify for the 2027 tournament, they will have to win at least four, but most likely at least five victories.
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The next two matches for the Lithuanians will take place on August 28 and 31.
