From the 1937 European champions to the present day — the path of Lithuanian basketball.
Lithuanian sport has deep traditions and exceptional achievements on the international stage. On this page you will find detailed information about this field.
Basketball was created in 1891 by Canadian-born educator James Naismith in the USA, looking for a sport that could be played indoors in winter. Initially, peach baskets were used, into which the ball was thrown, and to take it out one had to climb — so the basket was later replaced by a hoop with a net.
Basketball came to Europe during the First World War (through the US military and students), and in the interwar period it was already being played in Lithuania too — it became one of the most popular sports. In 1936, basketball was included in the Olympic Games, and after the Second World War it became one of the most widespread sports in the world.
📏 Basic Rules
Players: 5 against 5 on the court; the goal is to throw the ball into the opponents' basket.
Points: 2 points for a shot from the inside zone, 3 — for a line farther from the hoop (the distance may differ in each league), 1 point for a free throw.
Timing: usually 4 quarters (or 2 halves depending on the league).
Attack: must be completed within a set time (in FIBA rules — 24 seconds), otherwise the ball goes to the opponents.
Dribbling: the number of steps is limited — the ball must be dribbled or passed.
Fouls: direct contact; a player is removed when they accumulate the permitted number of fouls.
🏃 Positions and Physical Requirements
Position
What They Do
Physical Focus
Point Guard
Runs the game, creates offense
Change of pace, coordination, speed
Shooting Guard
Shooting, drives
Shooting accuracy, jump
Small Forward
Versatile — defense and offense
Endurance, mobility
Power Forward
Rebounding under the hoop
Strength, jump, body mass
Center
In the basketball zone, defense
Height, strength, jump
Basketball requires explosive power (jumps, starts), endurance and coordination — therefore training combines strength, speed and technical components.
🩹 Common Injuries and Prevention
Ankle sprain — the most common; balance exercises and proper shoes help.
Knee injuries (joint cartilage, ligaments), often after improper landing — it is important to learn to land properly.
Finger and hand injuries — from the ball; technique helps.
Back and lower back pain — due to a weak “core”; core stability exercises help.
Excessive load — for young players, it is important not to increase training volume suddenly.
🚀 How to Start
Get familiar with the basics of dribbling and passing (technique first).
Learn proper shooting form from a close distance, then increase the distance.
Work on coordination and balance (one-leg jumps, stopping).
Add strength and speed training 2 times per week — see. training plans.
Play a lot — the game teaches better than drills alone.
Take care of nutrition and rest: carbohydrates for training, protein for recovery — see. carbohydrates and protein dose.
