Valdemaras Chomičius, Lithuanian basketball player and coach

Valdemaras Chomičius, born on May 4, 1959, is a name synonymous with Lithuanian basketball, having carved out an illustrious career first as a highly skilled player and later as a respected coach. Known also by the transliteration Valdemaras Homicius, his journey through the sport has left an indelible mark on both club and international stages, reflecting the deep passion for basketball within Lithuania.

A Distinguished Playing Career

Chomičius was a formidable presence on the court, recognized for his prowess as a point guard. Standing at 192 cm (6 ft 3+1⁄2 in), he possessed a unique blend of ball-handling skills, court vision, and leadership that made him a pivotal figure for every team he represented. His most iconic period was undoubtedly during his time with Žalgiris Kaunas.

The Golden Years of Žalgiris Kaunas

Between 1985 and 1987, Valdemaras Chomičius captained Žalgiris Kaunas through what many remember as the club's "golden years." This era was characterized by an intense and legendary rivalry with CSKA Moscow, the dominant basketball powerhouse of the Soviet Union, often seen as the establishment's team. Against all odds, Chomičius led Žalgiris to an incredible feat: three consecutive USSR League championships, a triumph that resonated deeply across Lithuania, symbolizing national pride and defiance in the face of Soviet-era dominance. His leadership and strategic play during these fiercely contested matchups are still celebrated today.

International Club Engagements

Beyond his foundational years with Žalgiris Kaunas, Chomičius's talent took him to various international clubs. He played in Spain for teams like Forum Valladolid and CAI Zaragoza, gaining valuable experience in one of Europe's top leagues. His career also included a stint in Italy with Aprimatic Bologna during the 1990–1991 season, competing in Serie A2. He continued playing professionally until the 1996–1997 season, concluding his playing days with Olimpas Žemaitija, showcasing remarkable longevity and commitment to the sport.

National Team Glory

Valdemaras Chomičius also proudly represented his nation on the international stage. As a key player for the Soviet national basketball team, he was part of the squad that secured the prestigious Olympic gold medal in Seoul in 1988. After Lithuania regained its independence, he transitioned to become a foundational member of the newly formed Lithuanian national team, contributing to their remarkable success by winning Olympic bronze medals in Barcelona in 1992 and Atlanta in 1996. These Olympic achievements are cherished moments in Lithuanian sports history, underscoring Chomičius's vital role in establishing the country's basketball prowess on the global stage. He also earned a silver medal at the 1985 FIBA EuroBasket with the Soviet Union and a silver medal at the 1995 FIBA EuroBasket with Lithuania.

Transition to Coaching

Following his illustrious playing career, Chomičius seamlessly transitioned into coaching, bringing his vast experience and tactical understanding to the sidelines. His coaching journey has been as diverse and extensive as his playing career, encompassing various roles and clubs across Eastern Europe.

Player-Coach and Assistant Roles

His coaching career began with a player-coach role for Kraitenė Marijampolė, a natural progression for a leader like him. He then served as an assistant coach for PBC Ural Great Perm from 1999 to 2004, contributing to the team's success during that period. In 2003, he briefly took on coaching duties for PBC Dynamo Moscow, demonstrating his versatility and readiness to take on challenges.

Head Coaching Engagements

Chomičius's capabilities as a head coach were soon recognized. He led PBC Ural Great Perm as head coach during the 2004–2005 season. He later served as an assistant coach for BC UNICS before taking the helm as the team's head coach in the 2009–2010 season. His head coaching career also included guiding Triumph Lyubertsy from 2010 to 2012, BC Dnipro from 2012 to 2015, and working as a coach for BC Parma in the 2016–17 season. Most recently, he held the head coach position for BC Dzūkija from 2018 to 2020, continuing to share his expertise and passion for the game.

National Team Coaching Success

Valdemaras Chomičius also contributed his coaching talents to the Lithuanian national team, serving as an assistant coach. In a notable achievement, he head coached the Lithuania national team to victory in the 2005 FIBA Stanković Continental Champions' Cup, adding another significant trophy to his extensive career and further solidifying his standing as a respected figure in Lithuanian basketball.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Valdemaras Chomičius's major playing achievements?
Valdemaras Chomičius is best remembered for captaining Žalgiris Kaunas to three consecutive USSR League championships from 1985 to 1987. On the international stage, he won an Olympic gold medal with the Soviet Union in 1988 and two Olympic bronze medals with Lithuania in 1992 and 1996. He also secured silver medals at the 1985 and 1995 FIBA EuroBaskets.
Which national teams did Valdemaras Chomičius represent as a player?
He represented both the Soviet national basketball team and, following Lithuania's independence, the Lithuanian national basketball team.
What was the significance of the Žalgiris Kaunas "golden years" under Chomičius's captaincy?
The "golden years" (1985–1987) saw Žalgiris Kaunas win three consecutive USSR League championships, famously defeating CSKA Moscow. This achievement was incredibly significant for Lithuania, serving as a powerful symbol of national pride and a rare triumph over the dominant Soviet establishment.
Has Valdemaras Chomičius coached a national team to a championship?
Yes, as head coach, he led the Lithuania national team to win the 2005 FIBA Stanković Continental Champions' Cup.
Where did Valdemaras Chomičius play professionally outside of Lithuania?
He played in Spain for Forum Valladolid and CAI Zaragoza, and in Italy for Aprimatic Bologna (Serie A2).