The Lithuanians are without Kings star Domantas Sabonis but Pelicans big man Jonas Valanciunas will look to lead this squad into competition in the Philippines. At the 2022 EuroBasket, Lithuania took the eventual-champions Spain to overtime in the Round of 16. Lithuania is an under-the-radar threat to make a deep run on the big stage.
Active NBA Players
- Jonas Valanciunas (New Orleans Pelicans)
Coach: Kazys Maksvytis
What to Watch
In addition to the bruising Valanciunas, Lithuania has Domantas Montejunas and Ignas Brazdeikis on its roster — both of whom have previous NBA experience. Montejunas, who played 251 NBA games (most of which were with the Houston Rockets), has size and all-around skills. Brazdeikis, formerly of the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, is a solid athlete known for his hustle. That trio should provide strong depth in World Cup play.
Group Play Schedule
- Aug. 25: Lithuania vs. Egypt (8:30 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 26: Lithuania vs. Mexico (8:30 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 29: Lithuania vs. Montenegro (8:30 a.m. ET)
