Making Gains: Evelina Berzinskaite, a freshman point guard from Lithuania, is averaging 1.8 points and 1.2 rebounds in 24 games for the Lady Sharks this year.
The numbers aren’t impressive: A not so robust average of 1.8 points and 1.2 rebounds in 24 games played for the Lady Sharks.
But to Lithuanian point guard Evelina Berzinskaite, her experience far outweighs her production.
“I wanted to try a different kind of basketball because in Europe there [are] different rules,” said Berzinskaite, a 5’6” freshman. “I wanted to improve my level of basketball and not stay in one spot.”
Born and raised in Kaunas, Lithuania, Berzinskaite has been playing basketball since the age of 11. Although she tried football and volleyball as well, basketball was the sport that stuck.
“[My brother] was practicing basketball and I was always around him,” Berzinskaite said. “My coach saw that I was tall and wanted me to try it and I liked it.”
Berzinskaite attended Kaunas Dainava High School, though they did not offer athletics there. Instead she played in Aisčiai-Atletas (2007-2008), a basketball club team based in Kaunas, Lithuania. It is now known as LSU-Atletas (Lietuvos sporto universitetas).
After playing on the club team, Berzinskaite felt she needed to broaden her horizons.
“She is a dedicated worker and is always striving to do well and be the best, whether it’s academically, on the basketball court, [or] mastering another language and culture,” Lady Sharks Coach Susan Summons said.
Jakia Grimsley, a sophomore point guard for the Lady Sharks, said that Berzinskaite has helped her improve her game.
“We worked out together and she really pushes you to be better and work hard,” Grimsley said.
Berzinkaite found her way to MDC by hearing about Coach Susan Summons and “knew the coach is very good here”
Though Berzinskaite had never visited America before, she still wanted to come anyway.
“Sometimes I miss [home],” Berzinskaite said . “I miss my family of course because I’m alone here. I miss it, but it’s not like I want to go back.”
While here, 20-year-old exercise science major has tried to adjust to a new culture and language.
“Back home we have our own culture and here we have it mixed. I’m still learning English,” Berzinskaite said. “We had it in high school but I didn’t really pay attention since I did not think I would be coming here.”
Eventually, Berzinskaite would like to go to the WNBA and start her own business.
“I can imagine it both ways, in here or in Europe. But if I had a good opportunity, I would prefer to stay here,” she said.
