Kurtinaitis as Lithuania Coach: Fans React to Bendžius’ Pick

Kurtinaitis’ Bold Roster Cuts Spark debate Ahead of EuroBasket 2025

Lithuania’s national basketball team is facing a wave of discussion following head coach Darius Kurtinaitis’ surprising decisions to exclude veterans Mantas Rubštavičius, Kristupas Žemaitis, and Eimantas Bendžius from the final EuroBasket 2025 roster. While the omission of Rubštavičius raised few eyebrows, the cuts of Žemaitis and Bendžius have ignited passionate debate among fans.

The selection process was particularly scrutinized regarding the point guard position,where a competition unfolded between Žemaitis and Arnas Velička. Despite Žemaitis initially being considered the frontrunner, Velička, who recently joined Klaipėdos “Neptūnas,” successfully convinced Kurtinaitis of his value to the team.

Did you know? – Lithuania has a rich basketball history, winning a EuroBasket championship in 2003. The nation consistently ranks among Europe’s top basketball teams,known for its passionate fanbase and skilled players.

The final roster spot appeared to be a contest between big men Marekas Blaževičius and Laurynas Birutis. As preparations intensified, Blaževičius gained momentum, frequently starting in games, while Birutis saw diminishing playing time. Though, it was the unexpected decision to cut Eimantas Bendžius, a seasoned sharpshooter, that truly reverberated throughout the nation.

Following the official announcement, fans took to social media to voice their opinions. “It’s most regrettable regarding Bendžius, who has played for the national team for many years and certainly deserved to be in the twelve-man squad,” one fan wrote. Another expressed concern about the team’s frontcourt, stating, “Are we going with three slow centers? Wow.” A third fan lamented, “Kurtis made some tough calls. Bendžius should have stayed. Birutis should have been considered.”

Pro tip: – EuroBasket is the premier European national team basketball competition.It’s held every two years and features the continent’s best players,often including NBA stars during the off-season.

A poll conducted by Lrytas revealed that a staggering 91 percent of respondents were surprised by Kurtinaitis’ decisions.while initial reactions were strong,sentiment has cooled somewhat,though surprise remains prevalent. Despite a desire among many fans to see Bendžius on the court, there is a growing willingness to trust the coach’s judgment.

According to the poll, 64 percent of fans believe Kurtinaitis’ choices are logical, suggesting they will reserve final judgment.

Reader question: – Do you think a coach should prioritize experience or potential when selecting a national team roster? What factors are most critically important for success in a tournament like EuroBasket?

The EuroBasket 2025 tournament is set to begin on August 27th.Lithuania will compete in Group B alongside Finland, Germany, Montenegro, Sweden, and Great Britain.

Why: Head coach Darius Kurtinaitis made surprising cuts to the Lithuanian national basketball team roster for EuroBasket 2025.
Who: Veterans Mantas Rubštavičius, Kristupas Žemaitis, and Eimantas Bendžius were cut. Arnas Velička and Laurynas Birutis made the team.
What: Kurtinaitis’ decisions sparked debate among fans, particularly regarding the exclusion of bendžius, a seasoned sharpshooter. A poll showed 91% of fans were surprised by the cuts.
How did it end?: While initial reactions were strong, fan sentiment has cooled, with 64% now believing kurtinaitis’ choices are logical and willing to reserve final judgment. The team will compete in Group B of EuroBasket 2025, beginning August 27th.