MIES (Switzerland) - Lithuanian basketball legend and longtime coach Vladas Garastas has passed away at the age of 94.
An influential figure in the modern history of Lithuanian basketball, Garastas played a pivotal role in the country's rise on the international stage as both a coach and administrator.
Garastas served as head coach of the Lithuanian men's national team from 1992 to 1997, leading the newly independent nation to bronze medals at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona and the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, as well as a runner-up finish at the FIBA EuroBasket 1995.
Prior to Lithuania's independence, he also stood at the helm of the Soviet Union men's national team. Under his leadership, the USSR claimed bronze at the FIBA EuroBasket 1989 and finished runners-up at the 1990 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
At club level, Garastas is best remembered for his achievements with Zalgiris Kaunas, guiding the Lithuanian powerhouse to three consecutive Soviet League titles from 1985 to 1987.
Following his coaching career, Garastas served as President of the Lithuanian Basketball Federation from 2003 to 2011, continuing to shape the development and growth of basketball in Lithuania.
Through his achievements on the sidelines and his service to the game, Garastas left an enduring legacy that helped strengthen Lithuania's status as one of the world's great basketball nations.
At this time of sorrow, the FIBA family extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones, as well as the entire Lithuanian basketball community. FIBA