You are another Lithuanian superstar to enroll in this course. Why?
I guess this comes with age. You are not getting any younger and you come to realise that life does not end with playing basketball. There are more things besides that and even much more after you have finished playing.
I thought it was a super opportunity, once people from the Lithuanian Basketball Federation alerted me of the course I was very interested. Basketball has been a huge part of my life and I intend to stay close to it after I’m done playing. We all like doing what we’re good at, and basketball is my thing. Obviously I cannot say for certain, there is this saying “man plans, god laughs” but you never know, maybe coaching could be the next step in my professional career and this course will certainly give me a strong foundation.
What are your expectations for these studies?
To work on theory, to gain knowledge. I’ve played for many different coaches and seen countless practical situations. So the practical aspect of it is there. But there are gaps that need to be filled. Hopefully by this programme.
Which coaching style do you prefer or suits you best?
I wouldn’t say it’s all about coaching style. There’s no receipt for success. There are many great coaches who do not succeed and don’t win championships. And there are those who win it all but aren’t that good. Lots of things depend on players you have, also, even luck could be a factor.
Would Macijauskas – the coach want to have Macijauskas – the player on his team?
Well it’s a tough question because I’ve always been very critical of myself. So it depends which Macijauskas we are talking about. If it’s Macijauskas of Euroleague several years back, young, strong, nailing treys, then yes I’d have him on my team. But if it’s current Macijauskas, older, with injury problems, less motivated, then… I don’t know.
You achieved a lot as a player (European champion, Lithuanian champion, Spanish Cup winner, Euroleague Final 4 participant). What kind of ambitions would you have as a coach? The same?
If I decide to be a coach, then yes. This is the nature of sport. Always strive to be better. To be the best. I developed that feeling from an early age. You always try to be better for yourself, for your family, for your fans. For me that’s just the way it is. In basketball there are constant micro matches, in every move you make, on every spot of the floor. It’s about how you beat your opponent, whether it’s your speed or your smart thinking. Whatever helps, whatever works. I think in coaching it is all the same.
Other Lithuanian players – Linas Kleiza, Robertas Javtokas – will be studying with you. How do you feel about the possibility of sitting at the same desk with them?
It’s great. These are great guys and I haven’t seen them for a while. So it will be nice opportunity to meet and share ideas related to the game.
