Lithuanian basketball president on Kurtinaitis's future and national team roster

Lithuanian basketball faces uncertainty as discussions unfold regarding the national team's coaching staff and player availability for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. M. Balčiūnas, president of the Lithuanian basketball association, confirmed that options for both continuity and change with head coach Rimas Kurtinaitis are being considered.

"Let's put it this way, both options are open. Decisions regarding continuity and changes are being discussed with the respected coach," Balčiūnas told LNK journalist Nerijus Blujus. He stressed the high regard for Kurtinaitis and the team's past successes under his guidance.

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Let's put it this way, both options are open. Decisions regarding continuity and changes are being discussed with the respected coach. In any case, we greatly respect coach Rimas Kurtinaitis and the staff. We have experienced many good, victorious moments with him.

Despite reports suggesting national team captain Jonas Valančiūnas might not play in the upcoming qualifying window, Balčiūnas asserted that no player has officially refused to represent the country. "No, we don't have a single player who has refused," he stated.

The association met with the coaching staff and team manager to analyze the reasons behind the team's unsuccessful performance in the previous World Cup qualifiers. Insights were gathered from Kurtinaitis, his assistants, and team personnel. The final decision on the coaching staff is expected by July 24. The team's qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Qatar remains a complex challenge, with results from both qualifying stages counting towards the final standings.

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No, we don't have a single player who has refused.