Girona Bolsters Frontcourt with Experienced Lithuanian Pivot
In a move aimed at addressing thier interior struggles, Bàsquet Girona has secured the services of lithuanian centre martynas Geben on loan from Cedevita olimpija. The 30-year-old Geben brings a wealth of experience to the Catalan club, having previously played in the Liga Endesa with BAXI Manresa.
Geben’s basketball journey has taken him across the Atlantic and back. After honing his skills at the prestigious University of Notre Dame, he embarked on a professional career that has seen him represent notable European clubs such as juventus Utena, Zalgiris kaunas, Bamberg Basket, Fraport Skyliners, and BAXI Manresa. He began the current season with Cedevita Olimpija.
Internationally, Geben has represented Lithuania with distinction, earning a bronze medal at the 2013 FIBA World Cup held in the Czech Republic.
This season, Geben has averaged 5.9 points and 2.2 rebounds in 11 minutes per game across 13 Liga Endesa appearances for Cedevita Olimpija. In the EuroCup, he has contributed 4.8 points and 3.1 rebounds in 14 minutes per game over 12 contests.
With Girona currently facing defensive challenges, the club hopes that geben’s experience and skillset will provide the necessary boost to turn their fortunes around. his arrival adds depth and a proven presence to the frontcourt, offering a potential solution to the team’s ongoing struggles.
Girona Goes Lithuanian: Will martynas Geben be the Answer?
Welcome back, basketball fans, to another episode of “Hoops Talk”! Today, we’re diving deep into the recent move by Bàsquet Girona, who have brought in Lithuanian pivot Martynas Geben on loan from Cedevita Olimpija. Joining me to dissect this move is former Liga endesa champion and Lithuanian basketball analyst, Dainius saladzius.
Dainius, thanks for joining me.
Dainius Saladzius: Thanks for having me. Always happy to talk basketball, especially when it involves Lithuanian talent.
Now,Dainius,Girona has been struggling defensively this season. Do you think Geben is the answer to their woes?
Dainius Saladzius: It’s certainly a step in the right direction.
Geben’s experience is invaluable. He’s played at the highest level in both Europe and the States, battled with powerhouses like Zalgiris Kaunas and bamberg Basket, and even represented Lithuania internationally.[[1]He brings a level of toughness and basketball IQ that Girona desperately needs.
But, it’s not just about experience. Let’s take a look at his stats.He averages 5.9 points and 2.2 rebounds in limited minutes with Cedevita Olimpija this season.[[2]
while those numbers might not jump off the page, it’s meaningful to remember his role on those teams was specific. He was coming off the bench, there wasn’t necessarily a need for him to score 15 points a night.
Host:
That’s a good point. DG, are you confident that those defensive tools will translate to an immediate impact for Girona?
Dainius Saladzius: It’s not a guarantee, but the potential is there. Girona needs a physical presence down low, someone who can contest shots, box out effectively, and maybe even chip in with some offensive rebounds. Given his track record,I’m optimistic he can provide that missing element.
The question is, can he adapt quickly to a new system and a new set of teammates? He’ll need to learn the plays, establish chemistry, and understand Girona’s defensive strategy. That’s always a challenge for any mid-season acquisition.
Host:
That’s a crucial point. The transition time might be key to Girona’s success. They’ve got to integrate him fast. Do you think Girona will benefit from Geben’s international experience,having competed at the FIBA World Cup?
Dainius Saladzius: Absolutely.
That experience playing against the world’s best is invaluable. It teaches you composure, how to handle pressure, and how to adapt to different styles of play. These are all qualities that will be crucial for Girona, especially as they push for a playoff spot.
And don’t forget, playing for Lithuania, he was coached under legendary strategist Jonas Kazlauskas.
That kind of high-level coaching rubs off and shapes your approach to the game. 3]
Host:
That’s a great insight!
Now, dainius, every move has its risks. What do you see as the biggest potential downside for Girona with this signing?
dainius Saladzius:
Well, there’s always the risk that he doesn’t gel with the team. It takes time for new players to adapt, and sometimes personalities clash, or players struggle with the change in scenery.
Another concern is that, at 30, he’s not getting any younger. Girona might not be getting a long-term solution here, but rather a short-term fix. They may not be able to fully build around him for the future. It’s a bit of a gamble.
host:
A gamble with perhaps big rewards.
Now, fans, I want to hear from you! Do you think Martynas Geben is the right signing for Girona? Will he be the spark they need to turn their season around? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We love a good debate.
Dainius, thank you for your time and expertise.
Dainius saladzius:
Always a pleasure,thanks for having me. Let’s see how this plays out!
