In keeping with tradition, the 2023 tournament attracted top European talent which was confronted with the cream of British talent represented by the U18 English National Team and London United. The Coaching Clinic which runs alongside the international tournament attracted a large number of coaches specialising in the development of young talent who had a unique opportunity to familiarise themselves with the latest trends and tactics.
Future Stars 2023 International Tournament
After the round robin phase of the International tournament, Zalgiris Kaunas and Stellaazzura Academy secured theirs places in the final game. The final encounter did not disappoint and kept spectators on the edge of their seats for the entire game. Both teams have definitely based their tactics on the small game with fastbreaks and outside shooting became a decisive factor. Stellazzuras’s backcourt of Deyan Kolev and Ricards Aizpurs very effectively propelled their offence and by the half time, the game was very effectively poised. In the final period the impressive lineup of Lithuanian guards Ernas Pakamanis, Mantas Juzenas and Dovydas Buika found their touch from behind the 3-point line. Their shooting accuracy allowed Zalgiris to build a double-digit lead which allowed them to sail to the 68-56 victory.
Zalgiris guard Ernas Pakamanis has earned Future Stars 2023 MVP honours.
Future Stars International Coaching Clinic 2023
The clinic was dedicated to the coaching and development of young players and provided a platform for coaches with a proven track record across Europe to share the secrets of their success. The clinic was led by experts with extensive experience in elite-level competition including Euroleague ANGT.
The clinic featured:
Tautvydas Šležas, Head Coach at the European powerhouse Zalgiris Kaunas junior programme and has an extensive playing career in the top divisions in Lithuania, Austria and Spain (Bilbao). Coach Slezas is widely credited for the development of young Lithuanian prodigies such as Edgaras Ulanovas and Marius Grigonis. In addition to his coaching duties, Tautvydas also works as a studio analyst commentating Betsafe -LKL.
Germano D’Arcangeli, one of the most experienced Italian coaches specialising in junior basketball. His leadership allowed Stella Azzura Academy to become one of the leading centres of development for young players in Europe and a perennial participant in the Euroleague ANGT. In 2018, Stella Azzura finished second in the entire competition losing to BC Lietuvos Rytas in the final.
Daniel Garcia Tapial, who has 10 years experience of working across all ages of junior programmes at European superpower Real Madrid. Daniel was the assistant coach on the winning ANGT team on numerous occasions. In his coaching career, Daniel has worked with current NBA megastars such as Luca Doncic and Usman Garuba.
