Lithuania and basketball are two words that often go hand in hand.

It’s no secret that Lithuanians are passionate about basketball, which they regard as more than just a game/sport. It’s a state of mind or even a religion.

Given that enthusiasm and dedication for basketball, the Baltic state is the perfect setting for FIBA to hold the second edition of the U17 World Championship.

In 2010, the German city of Hamburg hosted the inaugural staging of FIBA’s youngest age category event. The USA took gold after beating surprise package Poland in the Final and Canada held off Lithuania to complete the podium.

This summer in Kaunas, the Americans will look to successfully defend their crown, but 11 teams from around the world will stand in their way of accomplishing that.

What are fans in for at the 2012 FIBA U17 World Championship?

They can expect to see the very best young basketball talent (players born in 1995 and after) from FIBA’s five continental zones play the game at the highest level and with just one objective in mind – win.

FIBA created the U17 World Championship because of the success of its “older brother”, the U19 World Championship.

Tickets for 2012 FIBA U17 World Championship in Kaunas are already on sale! Prices: daily ticket from 9 Lt, ticket for all games from 69 Lt. By tickets in „Tiketa“ office or online here.

Official webpage of Championship kaunas2012.fiba.com.