By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
MANILA, Philippines – On a FIBA World Cup with notable absences, Donatas Motiejunas after missing last year’s Eurobasket is back in a big tournament with the Lithuanian team.
It’s not something small for him, or the team. Because of a feud with the previous management of the Lithuanian federation, the 32-year-old Motiejunas was practically out of the team.
Things have changed and words can’t describe his feelings: “Wonderful, amazing, I waited for this so long I am really happy, I am happy for the guys, I am happy for the newcomers that had an amazing game, it’s all love, it’s all passion for this game, for the national team for my country”.
On the other hand, he understands why some players decide to take the summer off. Asked if this can be an asset since the players who have the chance to be present must showcase their talent, Motiejunas explained: “I can’t really say this. The season in Europe has changed, we play almost 90 games, so some players have to rest in the summer and prepare. On the other hand, playing for the national team must be cherished, but everyone knows what’s best for himself”.
Speaking about the game, which ended up a triumph for Lithuania, Motiejunas added: “It was not without anxiety, from the beginning we took control of the game but then Egypt played well for one and a half quarters. So we really had to gather up and delete the mistakes we were making. Of course, in the first game, everyone is a bit nervous and the final score doesn’t show the fight that Egypt put”.
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