A Different Easter for Tornado KM Teams in the Netherlands

2026 balandis 09 d., ketvirtadienis

This Easter was a unique experience for the teams coached by Mantas Lauraitis and Raimondas Zakrys. Tornado KM – “Metga” (U17) and Tornado KM – 2012-2 (U14) spent the holiday season in Groningen, the Netherlands, participating in the annual international tournament HNBT – Holland Nordic Basketball Tournament, which has drawn Tornado KM teams for several years.

Tornado KM – “Metga” – Runners-up in the Elite U19 Group

This year, Mantas Lauraitis’ squad competed in the elite U19 age group. Looking back at the tournament’s history, the first Tornado KM team to participate in the senior category was coached by Šarūnas Zablockis and Robertas Ragauskas in 2017, with players born between 1998 and 2000, and they won silver medals. A year later, in the U20 elite group, Š. Zablockis tried to repeat the achievement with the 2000-born players, but the medals eluded them in 2018. In 2023, another Tornado KM team coached by Š. Zablockis (players born 2005–2008) claimed the gold medal in the elite U19 group. Last year, the 2008-born boys coached by Aivaras Grigaliūnas brought home bronze.

Considering the tournament’s high level, this year the main goal with the younger U17 team was gaining experience and preparing for the upcoming playoffs. Nevertheless, the result exceeded expectations – Tornado KM – “Metga” secured second place, becoming the tournament’s runners-up.

Coach Mantas Lauraitis:

– What were your main goals for this tournament, and did you achieve them?

– We came with the idea of “not doing badly.” Last year, the 2008-born boys’ team finished third, so we aimed for a top-four finish. We knew it was a high-level tournament and that most of our games would be against opponents two or three years older, which at this age makes a difference physiologically. We matched them in height, but in terms of strength and athleticism, some teams were superior. The goal was to “test” the team ahead of the playoffs, increase our physical level, and experience a different basketball style – I think it went very well.

– In the final, you faced Oldenburg EWE Baskets Juniors again – what do you think was missing for victory this time?

– I wouldn’t say “familiar” – in the group stage, we played their U18 team preparing for the FIBA Youth Champions League, and after the games, they left. In the final, we faced their U19 team, one of the strongest in Germany for their age. The playing styles are similar, but we especially lost out in physicality. In the group stage, we lacked composure, especially on defense, and in the final, we played a poor first quarter and missed many long-range shots. A few made shots could have turned the result in our favor, but we got valuable lessons, which I hope we’ll use in the future.

– How would you describe your team’s character throughout the tournament?

– Their character was good. Perhaps they finally realized we are a solid team, something I’ve been telling them from day one. There were ups and downs, like in the final, when I had to wake them up and convince them they were equal to the opponents. I’m happy that my desire to win now motivates them rather than intimidates them, which used to happen. And of course, everything must always be proven again – every single day.

– What was the biggest benefit of this tournament in preparing for the Lithuanian School Basketball League playoffs?

– It provided experience against different basketball styles, opponent sizes and heights, refereeing nuances, and physicality levels. The team bonded even more, spending a lot of time together. Every experience contributes to future results – this was no exception. There’s one more regular-season game left before the playoffs, which is the most anticipated part of the season. We’ll see where this leads.

The tournament was especially successful for Lukas Lukošiūnas – he won the three-point contest and was named the tournament MVP.

– You won the three-point contest – was it just “a good day,” or did you feel confident you could win?

– I felt confident and truly believed I could win. Also, the support of my teammates contributed to my victory.

– You were named the most valuable player – what do you think contributed most to that achievement?

– I think it was a combination of self-confidence and a strong desire to win every game. Playing with that energy makes everything easier.

– What stood out to you off the court?

– Off the court, the time spent with teammates was most memorable. Also, the tournament volunteers left a very positive impression – friendly and engaging.

Experiences More Important Than Results (2012-2)

For Raimondas Zakrys’ Tornado KM 2012-2 team, the tournament was a valuable learning experience. Although high results were not achieved, the young players had the opportunity to face teams with different playing styles, adapt to “adult” FIBA rules, and gain important international experience.

– What was the hardest part for the kids in adapting to different opponents?

– I wouldn’t say it was difficult – more mistakes came from our side, especially in passing. And, of course, the stress affected them; some open shots under the basket were missed. Still, there were stretches where we played really well.

– What progress did you notice during the tournament?

– We always aim to win, though it doesn’t always happen, and this tournament was no exception. We played full FIBA rules (including zone defense), which required adaptation. Mistakes and missed open shots prevented victories in the group stage. We lost by 5 points to Italians and 6 points to Serbians.

– The kids stayed with local families – how important is that experience for their growth as athletes and individuals?

– Living with Dutch families was fun and interesting. They always had something to share. New friends, practicing English with peers and adults alike – all positive for personal development. Huge thanks to the families for taking care of our kids.

– What lesson did you take from the tournament?

– There are many lessons. I always remind my players that every minute of a game matters, from start to finish. Focus and mindset must be maximal for each player at all times, and that leads to better results. We took away a lot of lessons and experience from this tournament. Thanks also to the parents for sending their kids and Tornado KM administration for making participation possible.

During the trip, the teams also visited Heide Park, enjoying almost a full day there. We thank the tournament organizers for another excellently organized event and memorable experiences brought back to Lithuania. Special thanks to the families who hosted our players and cared for them as their own. We hope to return to Groningen next year and be part of this tournament again.