LANDAU Lions basketball player Arnas Sakenis, who holds American and Lithuanian citizenship, has reflected on his team's 108-84 defeat to Slovakia's Prievidza in the FIBA Europe Cup group stage.
As reported by İdman.Biz, in an exclusive interview, Sakenis discussed the mistakes that contributed to the defeat, the challenges of adapting to European basketball and his experiences in Azerbaijan.
"We couldn't defend effectively. We allowed our opponents to make too many three-point shots and score more than 100 points. There was some pressure from the home fans, but we didn't really feel it during the game. It only became noticeable at decisive moments," Sakenis explained.
The player emphasized that the team is now focused on correcting its mistakes ahead of the next European fixture.
"As we prepare for the upcoming match against Bakken Bears, we're trying to improve our mental approach and correct our mistakes. Our goal is to achieve a better result," he added.
Azerbaijani clubs need time to adapt to European basketball
Sakenis also addressed the disappointing performances of Azerbaijani clubs in European competitions this season, with none having secured a victory in the main stages so far.
"Competing in Europe is a new experience for Azerbaijani clubs. They still need to understand the specific demands of these competitions. After all, many Azerbaijani basketball clubs were established relatively recently," he said.
The basketball player acknowledged that he is also going through an adjustment period, having joined European basketball for the first time this season.
NBA ambitions remain alive
Sakenis went undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft but subsequently represented the Miami Heat in the NBA Summer League.
The player believes his time with LANDAU Lions could serve as a stepping stone toward achieving his ultimate ambition of playing in the world's strongest basketball league.
"I'm not completely satisfied with my performances yet. There are still areas I need to work on. This is my first season in Europe, and I'm adapting to the style of basketball here. However, I'm confident that the team will help me improve throughout the season," he said.
"I want to return to the NBA Summer League, play there again and perhaps even make it to the NBA. I believe LANDAU Lions will definitely help me improve my statistics, develop as a player and take the next step in my career. Hopefully, I'll participate in the NBA Summer League again next year."
Impressed by Azerbaijani food and lifestyle
Beyond basketball, Sakenis shared his positive impressions of living in Azerbaijan, revealing that this is his first experience in Europe.
"It's my first time in Baku. I've never been to Europe before. So far, I like everything about Azerbaijan. I especially enjoy the local food. I also like the fact that things are relatively inexpensive here," he said.
The player also assessed the competitive level of the Azerbaijan Basketball League (ABL), where LANDAU Lions have played two matches this season.
The team suffered an 84-74 defeat against reigning champions Sabah before recording a convincing 102-68 victory over NTD.
"What stands out to me about the ABL is that every game matters, and matches are often decided in the final minutes. The competition is very physical, and every team gives everything to win," Sakenis concluded.
LANDAU Lions seek first European victory
LANDAU Lions are currently in Slovakia preparing for their next FIBA Europe Cup encounter against Denmark's Bakken Bears, scheduled for October 21 at 20:30 Baku time.
The Azerbaijani club began its European campaign in the Basketball Champions League qualifiers, where it suffered a 105-88 defeat against Latvia's VEF Riga.
Following elimination, LANDAU Lions continued their continental campaign in Group G of the FIBA Europe Cup.
However, their group-stage debut also ended in disappointment, with an 83-105 defeat against Switzerland's Lions de Genève, followed by the 84-108 loss to Prievidza.
The upcoming match against Bakken Bears will provide another opportunity for the Azerbaijani side to claim its first victory in the competition.
