Hoptrans Sirenos look to follow their fairytale

KAUNAS (EuroCup Women 2017) – It was one of the most surprising domestic title wins anywhere on the Continent and having caused a stir by sealing the LMKL title, Lithuanian side Hoptrans Sirenos are ready to embark on a EuroCup Women adventure.

The Kaunas-based club finished the regular 2015-16 league season in fourth spot and with a modest 12-12 record to their name, but hit top gear during the Play-Offs and found themselves the last team standing in the LMKL.

In what is now a famous title success, they are looking to add to their resume with a new chapter by making a first-ever historical foray in EuroCup Women.

Once again they will have play-caller Linas Salkus holding the coaching reins and he will have the core of his team back on board as Sirenos get ready to test themselves against Israeli champions Maccabi Bnot Ashdod, four-time EuroLeague Women winners Sparta&K M.R. Vidnoje and another club from the EuroCup Women Qualifiers.

The first building block has been to re-up a number of Lithuanian rising stars including the likes of teenager Rasa Knyzaite, who averaged more than 23 minutes per game in the LKML last season despite her tender years.

There are also spots for other young guns Karolina Ambotaite and Livija Sakeviciute, while 21-year-old forward Gintare Jasiunskaite will continue with her hometown team for another season and look to show the kind of leadership she did last year during the club’s successful ride to the top of their domestic podium.

FIBA