NEW YORK (United States) - Juste Jocyte made more history by becoming the first Lithuanian to be drafted in the first round of the WNBA draft, but remains fully committed to representing Lithuania.
The 19-year-old makes no hesitation when it comes to any possible decision about her summer plans with FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 looming on the horizon.
"It's an honor to play for the national team."
"The national team is always my priority," stated Jocyte, via BasketNews. "If the WNBA told me I couldn't leave and had to choose, I'd undoubtedly pick the national team."
Jocyte played a key role in helping Lithuania qualify for the Final Round of the flagship event, with averages of 17.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists across four games in the Qualifiers.
This summer's tournament - where Lithuania will begin their campaign in Bologna, Italy - marks their first appearance at the Women's EuroBasket since 2015, and Jocyte is committed to making it a memorable return to the continent's biggest stage.
"It's an honor to play for the national team," she added. "We haven't been at the Women's EuroBasket for so long. If we were a country like France or Spain, always qualifying, maybe then I could think about skipping it.
"But when such a chance comes, and knowing how hard it is for us to qualify - it isn't even a question what to choose."
Jocyte has long been coveted as a future star - making a senior debut for the national team at just 13 years of age, before becoming the youngest debutante in the modern era of EuroLeague Women at 14. The talented teenager became a EuroCup Women champion during that development with French side LDLC ASVEL Feminin, and the next chapter is set to take Jocyte to the WNBA.
Despite not turning 20 until later this year, Jocyte will shoulder plenty of responsibility for Lithuania - a versatile guard-forward with a smooth shooting touch, court vision, and poise beyond her years. Jocyte is ready to reach greater heights, and reflect the renewed sense of ambition of the national team.
The future of women's basketball in Lithuania certainly looks bright. Jocyte headlines a talented new generation, and Lithuania will also co-host FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2027 - another important milestone to push towards, whilst gaining valuable experience and pushing to compete this summer.
"I think this is the best combination — experienced players and young ones. Young players will definitely bring some chaos (smiles), but the veterans will calm them and guide them.
"I hope to see a lot of young talent this summer, at least in training camp. We need to get them used to that environment and help them feel the opportunity."
Jocyte waited to hear her name at the 2025 WNBA Draft in a historic moment – and in doing so, did what she took greatest pride in: representing Lithuania.
FIBA