London Lions are proud to announce the appointment of Tautvydas Sabonis as the club’s new Head Coach ahead of the 2025/26 season
Sabonis joins the Lions from European giants Žalgiris Kaunas, where he has spent the last five years rising through the coaching ranks - most recently as Assistant Coach with their EuroLeague side. At just 33 years old, he is widely considered one of the brightest young minds in European basketball and now steps into his first head coach role, ready to lead a new era in London.
A former professional player, Sabonis retired in 2019 following a career that included spells across Spain’s top divisions. He quickly transitioned into coaching at Žalgiris, building a reputation for his attention to detail, tactical awareness, and commitment to player development. His work behind the scenes has caught the attention of top coaches and clubs across Europe.
While Tautvydas carries the weight of a famous surname — as the son of European basketball legend Arvydas Sabonis and brother of NBA All-Star Domantas Sabonis — he has forged a path entirely his own. His approach to the game blends deep basketball IQ with a modern coaching style that aligns perfectly with the Lions’ vision.
🗣 “A New Chapter for the Club”
Speaking on the appointment, Martynas Purlys, Sporting Director at London Lions, said:
“Tautvydas is an exciting coach with incredible potential. We’ve admired his rise through the coaching world and feel this is the right moment to give him the platform to lead. His background, work ethic and vision match our ambitions perfectly. He’s the right person to guide us as we build something special here in London.”
Sabonis’ arrival comes at a transformational time for the club, following recent investment into a new stadium and the Lions’ return to the BKT EuroCup for the upcoming season. His appointment marks the first major step in assembling a squad and coaching team ready to compete at the highest level in both the British Basketball League and across Europe.
🗣 “I Believe in the Vision Here”
In his first comments as Head Coach, Sabonis said:
“The London Lions is a club that really excites me. I was hugely impressed by the ambition and clarity of vision shown by both Lenz [Balan, CEO] and Martynas [Purlys]. This is a team that wants to compete — not just in the UK, but across Europe — and I’m honoured to lead that journey.”
“My philosophy is built on team culture, development, and high standards. London is a world-class sports city, and I believe basketball here can thrive. I can’t wait to get started.”
Welcome to London, Coach Sabonis. Let’s make history.
Early bird season tickets for 2025/26, including all home BKT EuroCup fixtures, are on sale now.
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