Mantas Kuzminskas says AEK suffered from his benching, cites no explanation from coach Dragan Sakota

Lithuanian forward Mantas Kuzminskas gave an interview to a Lithuanian outlet about his three‑year spell with Greek club AEK Athens. He said he was physically fit but psychologically strained, noting that he was kept on the bench for most of the season, including the Basketball Champions League Final Four.

Kuzminskas claimed the team suffered more from his lack of playing time than he did personally and said coach Dragan Sakota never gave a clear reason for the decision. Possible factors he mentioned were the arrival of newcomer Greg Brown and reports of delayed salary payments. He expressed a desire to return to Lithuania as soon as possible and lamented the situation despite maintaining a good relationship with the coach and supporting teammates in training.