Kings Among Kings: “Tornado KM” Crowned Champions of the LIDL-MKL

2026 gegužė 11 d., pirmadienis

On Saturday in Šiauliai, the champions of the LIDL-MKL Boys U18 Championship were crowned. The title was claimed by “Tornado KM I–Xiaomi”, coached by Aivaras Grigaliūnas. In the grand final, the Kaunas-based team defeated the regular season winners, Šiauliai KA “Saulė” I–ŠSG, coached by Dainius Bertulis, with a score of 76:68.

Šiauliai KA “Saulė” I–ŠSG: D. Varikaš 16, G. Krivas 14 (9 rebounds), A. Bušma 12, M. Butkus 11, R. Kairys 10 (7 assists)

“Tornado KM I–Xiaomi”: T. Aliukonis 18 (12 rebounds), L. Lukošiūnas 16 (6 assists), N. Linartas 14.

After the game, Kaunas head coach A. Grigaliūnas openly shared his emotions and expressed pride that the team successfully executed its game plan and finished the season in the best possible way.

“We came into the game with a clear strategy and special attention on Šiauliai’s leaders – R. Kairys and G. Krivas. Although not everything worked perfectly in the first half, during halftime the boys listened, adjusted well, and did an excellent job on both defense and offense.

Our opponents missed some key shots in crucial moments, and basketball is simple – if you make your shots, you win; if you miss them, you lose. At the same time, I want to congratulate the Šiauliai team and coach Dainius Bertulis for the fantastic work they have done,” said A. Grigaliūnas after the final.

“Tornado KM I–Xiaomi” center Tauris Aliukonis echoed his coach’s thoughts. The big man thanked the parents who had supported the team throughout the years and celebrated the symbolic victory in the legendary Šiauliai arena.

“These were our final years together as a team. We put so much love, effort, and fight into this journey, so this victory means the world to us,” said T. Aliukonis.

Meanwhile, Šiauliai head coach D. Bertulis emphasized that the silver medals are a historic achievement for the city.

“The final was decided by many small details. ‘Tornado’ has more experience, while on offense we did not always make the best decisions. Missed shots disrupted our rhythm, tension appeared, and we started rushing. Still, I want to thank everyone who believed in us. Throughout the years, there were many doubts about these young players and their future, but today we can see the result. I am extremely proud of them,” said D. Bertulis.

During the Final Four celebration, the All-Tournament Team was also announced. Tornado KM players Tauris Aliukonis (born in 2008) and Lukas Lukošiūnas (born in 2009) received commemorative trophies and sponsor prizes for their outstanding performances.

Source: mkl.lt