54 Teams, Hundreds of Emotions: The 2x2 Family Tournament Returns to RIO Arena

2026 balandis 20 d., pirmadienis

On April 19, the RIO Arena was once again filled with basketball, smiles, and genuine family эмоtions as the now традиционал 2x2 Family Basketball Tournament returned. From the very first games, the courts were buzzing with energy – the sound of bouncing balls, referees’ whistles, and enthusiastic cheering created a true celebration of sport.

This year, an impressive 54 teams took part, competing across different age groups. It was especially inspiring to see families returning year after year – turning the tournament into a meaningful tradition that combines basketball, togetherness, and a shared sense of purpose. Once again, the event proved that it is about much more than competition – it is a celebration of family, community, and active time spent together. Parents and children shared the court, while friends and relatives cheered from the sidelines. Moments of victory, disappointment, and heartfelt hugs after games created an unforgettable atmosphere.

An important part of the tournament is its charitable mission. All funds raised will go towards supporting Ukrainian and socially disadvantaged children training at the “Tornado” Basketball School, helping to cover their training and other sports-related expenses.

The tournament winners were awarded prizes established by partners and sponsors: “Fjord Omega Strong”, “Osama”, American Pizza, “4F”, and “Xiaomi Lithuania”.

TOURNAMENT WINNERS:

Born in 2017 and younger

1st place – Olberkiai (Domas & Andrius Olberkiai)

2nd place – LnG (Laurynas & Gediminas Linkai)

3rd place – Kobe (Domas & Karolis Žižniauskai)

4th place – Skinuliai (Dovydas & Aurimas Skinuliai)

Born in 2015–2016

1st place – Sumuštiniai (Benas & Kristijonas Samušiai)

2nd place – Skanus kumpis (Daugirdas & Giedrius Liutkevičiai)

3rd place – Maistas (Ąžuolas & Marius Šumskiai)

4th place – O&L Team (Oskaras & Laimonas Čičiniai)

Born in 2013–2014

1st place – Velniai (Raimondas & Martynas Karpavičiai)

2nd place – Lokiai (Deividas Masionis, Majus & Nerijus Makauskai)

3rd place – Iron Karb (Simas & Rolandas Karbauskai)

4th place – Pulkauskai (Kristupas Skeiverys, Kristupas & Marius Pulkauskai)

Born in 2011–2012

1st place – Senis dar gali (Enrikas & Artūras Padriezai)

2nd place – Dream Team (Dovydas & Donatas Sujetos)

3rd place – Simple (Domas & Redas Kaminskai)

A big thank you goes to all “Tornado” Basketball School staff and student volunteers who contributed to the smooth organization of the event and helped create this special celebration.

Regardless of the results, we hope every participant left with what matters most – great emotions, meaningful time with family, and the желание to return next year. For some, it was their first tournament; for others, a cherished tradition – but everyone shared the same goal: to be together.

At the opening of the event, the school’s director Dainius Čiuprinskas welcomed all participants and подчеркнул that anyone who stepped onto the court with a family member is already a winner.

“This tournament continues to grow every year, not only in the number of teams but also in the atmosphere it creates,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see so many families spending active time together on the court. Even more importantly, we are contributing to a meaningful cause – the funds raised will help children train and grow. I sincerely thank all participants, partners, and our team for their effort and energy.”

Photos: FACEBOOK ALBUM

(Translated with ChatGPT)