Jul 31, 2010, 10:03 pm
[quote name='Vilius' date='31 July 2010 - 11:34 PM' timestamp='1280608459' post='24023']
1. For the first time in 3 years I saw the national team that I can recognize. No more 24-second attacks. Quick basketball and fast ball movement. In fact, even though the team is much weaker than it could potentially be, it was more enjoyable to watch than the NT of the previous years. Especially since this was just the first game. During the time when Butautas was the head coach, the first game of the national team used to be a total disaster in every aspect. Even though the opponents weren't very strong but still a win is a win. Besides, Finland start EuroBasket 2011 qualifiers next week and they need to be in the top shape.
[/quote]
Good point, this team looks fresh compering to the last year. It's like a nice project of the future with some addition. Basically this team has solid options in all positions except 1 (unfortunately I see only one reliable solution - to keep the ball in GeceviÄius' hand more, other two - Seibutis and some solid lengths from Kalnietis/Gustas). I really would like to see MotiejÅ«nas having some minutes in WC, I don't see much of a sense to take KlimaviÄius who will get limited role after Kleiza/JankÅ«nas and next year he won't even be considered (most likely) when Brothers/PetraviÄius will be available. Yeah, I don't see this team fighting with Spain, USA, Argentina and other best teams, but they can be surprisingly competitive.
1. For the first time in 3 years I saw the national team that I can recognize. No more 24-second attacks. Quick basketball and fast ball movement. In fact, even though the team is much weaker than it could potentially be, it was more enjoyable to watch than the NT of the previous years. Especially since this was just the first game. During the time when Butautas was the head coach, the first game of the national team used to be a total disaster in every aspect. Even though the opponents weren't very strong but still a win is a win. Besides, Finland start EuroBasket 2011 qualifiers next week and they need to be in the top shape.
[/quote]
Good point, this team looks fresh compering to the last year. It's like a nice project of the future with some addition. Basically this team has solid options in all positions except 1 (unfortunately I see only one reliable solution - to keep the ball in GeceviÄius' hand more, other two - Seibutis and some solid lengths from Kalnietis/Gustas). I really would like to see MotiejÅ«nas having some minutes in WC, I don't see much of a sense to take KlimaviÄius who will get limited role after Kleiza/JankÅ«nas and next year he won't even be considered (most likely) when Brothers/PetraviÄius will be available. Yeah, I don't see this team fighting with Spain, USA, Argentina and other best teams, but they can be surprisingly competitive.