Tubelis Reflects on Lithuania's Basketball Team's Summer Work Ahead of Qualifiers

Lithuania's national basketball team is preparing for the second round of World Cup qualifiers with a roster of 14 players, a selection that notably omits Lithuanian talent playing in the NBA and EuroLeague. Coach Rimas Kurtinaitis has assembled a squad that faces a challenging path forward.

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If I am healthy – I will be there.

The team's upcoming schedule includes a difficult away game against an undefeated Turkish team on August 28, followed by a home match in Vilnius against a strong Bosnia and Herzegovina side on August 31. Lithuania currently sits fourth in Group J with three wins and three losses, meaning they must win at least four, possibly five, of their remaining six games to qualify for the main tournament.

Arnas Tubelis, who was a key player in the earlier qualifying window, emphasized the importance of collective effort over individual stardom. "I think the national team is not about who is the best or most famous. It is about teamwork. We will try to show that," Tubelis stated. He also noted the enthusiasm of the new players joining the team, expressing confidence in their commitment.

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I think the national team is not about who is the best or most famous. It is about teamwork. We will try to show that.

Tubelis also shared his excitement about the prospect of playing alongside his childhood friend, Augustas Marčiulionis. "Yes, maybe finally Augustas will be registered (laughs). We haven't played against each other for many years. It didn't happen last season or in the national team. It will be interesting, it will be fun to remember," he said.

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We have many new faces who have arrived very motivated. They really want to be here and will give everything for it. I have no doubt.

Additionally, the Lithuanian reserve team roster and coaching staff were announced, with Arnas Tubelis' twin brother, Tautvilas Tubelis, joining as an assistant coach. Tautvilas previously served as an assistant at Saint Mary's Gaels in the NCAA, where he coached alongside Marčiulionis, Paulius Murauskas, and Mantas Juzėnas.

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Yes, maybe finally Augustas will be registered (laughs). We haven't played against each other for many years. It didn't happen last season or in the national team. It will be interesting, it will be fun to remember.