Lithuania limits celebration after US win as Serbia awaits

It may have been a big win, but Lithuania limited its celebration after winning against the United States, 110-104, on Sunday in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

While Vaidas Kariniauskas described their win as a cause for celebration, they are also preparing for another tough assignment in the quarterfinals: world no. 6 Serbia.

"It was a big win for our country, for us players, coaches, to play against the best in the world," Kariniauskas said. "I'm happy for my country and our families. We don't need to stop now because we have a game against Serbia in 48 hours."

"We are happy but we cannot be too happy," he added.

Lithuania’s Vaidas Kariniauskas talks about their win against the US #FIBAWC @gmasportsph @gmanews pic.twitter.com/wUYsG7nDu7

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) September 3, 2023

During the match, Kariniauskas paced Lietuva with 15 points, four rebounds, and two assists.

Lithuania coach Kazys Maksvytis echoed Kariniauskas.

"We need to save our emotions and all our efforts for next game because in two days, we're starting playoffs," he said. "We need to have short memory to prepare for our second game."

Lithuania head coach Kazys Maksvytis is happy about their big win against the USA #FIBAWC @gmasportsph @gmanews pic.twitter.com/9FccvMKPgv

— JK Carandang (@jk_carandang) September 3, 2023

Lietuva already has a better finish in this edition of the World Cup compared from four years ago. Assured of a slot in the top eight, Lithuania back in 2019 placed ninth in the tournament. Serbia, during that edition, finished fifth overall.

Lithuania and Serbia will face each other on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News