Arminas Vilkas: “My idol is Kevin Durant - he’s on another level”
From domestic leagues to international tournaments, Arminas has established himself as one of the most promising prospects in Europe - and his journey is only just beginning. After a breakout year filled with achievements and growth, Arminas Vilkas has captured the attention of scouts across Europe.
Our Director of Scouting, Ata Toprak Koşal, had an in-depth conversation with Arminas Vilkas about his standout season, development as a player, and future ambitions.
Q: You were the MVP of Adidas Next Generation, the champion of that tournament, and also won the Youth BCL. How would you summarize the season?
A: It was a really great season for me and for the teams I played for. Personally, winning MVP of the Adidas Next Generation Tournament was amazing. I also won the Youth BCL. With my main team, Vilkaviškio Perlas, we finished second in the NKL, and we also won silver in the youth league. So overall, it’s been a great season, and now I’m looking forward to summer and starting training camp with the national team.
“I think this year proved what I can do when I get opportunities in different systems.”
Q: This season, you played in various competitions with Tornado, Vilkaviškis, Rytas, and Adidas NextGen Team. How do you reflect on all that experience?
A: Yeah, I played for multiple teams this season. Tornado is my age group team, Vilkaviškio Perlas plays in the second division of Lithuania, I joined Adidas for the ANGT, and Rytas invited me for the Youth BCL. Each experience brought something new, I tried to "absorb" the lessons from each coach and I am very grateful to all of them, especially my Tornado School coaches who raised me for 10 years. I also traveled a lot - my first time flying alone! So I’d say it was not just great for basketball but for my life in general. New experiences on and off the court…
“Each jersey I wore this year gave me something unique.”
Q: Speaking of the national team, you've played for Lithuania in the past two seasons, including the U17 World Cup in Istanbul. What was it like to represent your country on such a big stage?
A: Representing Lithuania is always special. Being selected from so many players in the country is an honor. Playing at the U17 World Cup in Istanbul was a big experience - the arenas, the living conditions, everything was really well organized. I definitely learned a lot and added some things to my game. In the same summer, I had the honor to represent Lithuania at the U18 European Championship in Finland, which was also an incredible experience.
Q: What do you think is the most underrated part of your game?
A: Probably my speed. I think I’m pretty fast both on and off the ball. Also, I don’t know if it’s underrated, but I think my athleticism can be used more. I feel I could be a strong shot blocker and rim protector.
Q: What part of your game do you want to improve the most?
A: My shooting, definitely - especially three-pointers and free throws. But of course, I want to improve in all aspects of the game.
Q: What are your short-term goals right now?
A: First, to give my best at the Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso. After that, it’s national team camp - I want to make the final 12-man roster. That’s my focus right now.
"The Adidas Eurocamp will be another platform for Arminas to showcase himself among Europe's elite. With his work ethic and versatility, few doubt he’ll make a strong impression." -Ata Toprak Koşal
Q: When did you start playing basketball and who influenced you the most?
A: I started when I was around 8 years old, in 2nd grade. It’s a funny story - my uncle always said, “You’re tall, you should play basketball.” He kept asking, so I told my mom to sign me up for practices just to say I tried it and didn’t like it. But I went and I liked it… and here I am.
Q: Did you try other sports before basketball?
A: I did karate for a while, and I used to do this local multi-sport thing - running, ball throwing, and jumping. I was good at it but after that, it was all basketball.
"My idol is Kevin Durant - he’s on another level."
Q: Do you have any basketball idols or players you like to watch?
A: I do! Even though I’m a big guy, I love watching guards like Mike James and Kendrick Nunn. My idol is Kevin Durant - he’s on another level. In EuroLeague, also I like how Real Madrid and Paris Basketball play - fast-paced and smart basketball. That’s my style too.
Q: Anything else you'd like to share about your dreams or future plans?
A: I’d love to play in the NBA or EuroLeague one day. Both are amazing leagues. NBA is a dream for every kid, but EuroLeague is closer to my heart because I grew up watching it. If I ever get to play on one of those stages, it will mean everything to me.