2024-07-08 08:15:32
The Lithuanians finally defeated the Italians 88:64 and won their third victory in a row. This is the sixth consecutive victory of the Lithuanian national team against the Italians, who have not won against the Lithuanians in major tournaments since the semi-finals of the 2004 Olympic Games.
“We had two other matches and they prepared us for today”, Deividas Sirvydis briefly reviewed the match.
The new basketball player of “Žalgiris” Kaunas scored 9 points (2/3 doubles, 0/5 triples, 5/6 penalties) in just 9.5 minutes on the court and was the third most productive player of the Lithuanian national team after Mariaus Grigonis (23 points) and Mindaugas Kuzminskas (14 points).
“I don’t know, I missed those free throws after fouls by the opponents. It’s important to come out with a good defense, which I think they did well. The coach is asking me for that, so this is the most important thing for now”, D.Sirvydis reviewed his performance.
D.Sirvydis threw 8 shots in just 9 minutes of the game (including two three-pointers, during which he was fouled, the basketball player threw 10 shots into the basket – ed.), was there such a plan to aggressively attack the opponent’s basket?
“It wasn’t, but that’s my task. I’m a thrower, they gave me some freedom, my hands didn’t shake and I had to use the opportunities”, said D.Sirvydis.
How much better does such a match dispel the bad thoughts after the first two games against Mexico and DKK?
“I don’t even know. You know me – I don’t overwork, I don’t overthink, and I quickly forget about bad matches and that’s it. The fact that here – somewhat differently than in club basketball, you have few chances to get on the court and you have to be ready to give benefits. Bad thoughts are chased away by team members, coaches and family who supported me, friends”, taught D.Sirvydis.
In the grand final, our team will meet the Puerto Rican national team, where from Sunday to Monday at 1:00 a.m. In Lithuanian time, our basketball players will lock arms with local heroes defending the court.
– Wasn’t there a thought that you will not appear on the field after the coach said that he would narrow the rotation for the semi-final match?
– It wasn’t. At the end of the day it doesn’t matter. I got a chance and I think I used it well. The most important thing is victory.
– What is the national team of Puerto Rico?
– The Puerto Rican team is a very emotional team, they play well in front of their fans, so we’ll see.
– Did you take the biggest step forward in the match against the Italians in defense?
– I think yes. The physicality was what we needed most. We are all understanding, we know where to stand, what to do. We showed tonight that we can represent and defend well.
– Marius Grigonis twice improved his personal record of points in this selection, when he wears the national team shirt. What can you say about him?
– Point machine, I don’t know (smiles – ed.). Very happy for him.
– What could you say about the leader of Puerto Rico, Jose Alvarado?
– It depends a lot on emotions. One game he might not hit a single shot, another game he might hit 7 out of 10 3-pointers. You will have to keep a close eye on him and prevent him from attacking you.
– Will a few hours of extra rest be a factor?
– Hard to say. I don’t think it makes a difference. Just the fact that it will be a final and the adrenaline will work.
2024-07-08 08:15:32