Paunksnyte Leads Lithuania Past Germany in U20 EuroBasket
Daniele Paunksnyte delivered an elite performance, pouring in 28 points and dishing out 9 assists to steer Lithuania to a commanding 83-69 win over Germany at Gargzdai Arena.
In this FIBA U20 Women's EuroBasket clash, Lithuania established a 14-point lead by halftime, holding a 49-35 advantage, and maintained that 66-52 cushion entering the final quarter.
The Lithuanian charge was fuelled by sharp shooting, hitting 49% from the field (29/59) and a blistering 48% from three-point range (12/25), a stark contrast to Germany's 35% clip. While Germany's bench contributed a significant 40 points, Lithuania capitalised on Germany's 17 turnovers, forcing 15 steals. Sintija Aukstikalnyte completed a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, complemented by Gabija Galvanauskaite's 10 rebounds and 3 blocks. For Germany, Lilli Schultze came off the bench for 9 points, with Chanel Ndi adding 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
This victory serves as a significant statement of intent from Lithuania in the tournament.