First Olympic Competition Experience

Last night I got to experience my first live Olympic competition. I purchased a pair of Men’s basketball tickets for two prelimnary games at the Olympic Basketball Arena. The competing teams were host country, Great Britain vs. Russia and Argentina vs Lithuania.

I was expecting the atmosphere to be electric since Great Britain was playing in front of their home crowd. However, Lithuania fans stole the show! GB is not necessarily a basketball power, but then again neither is Lithuania. However, the Lithuanian fans controlled the cheers and chants throughout the night. Even during the GB game you heard chants of “LIE-TU-VA! LIE-TU-VA!”. By the third quarter of the GB game it was clear that Russia was in control so most fans were eager to see the next game. Argentina has a number of NBA players on their roster so I was excited to see them play. But I quicklly realized I was cheering for the wrong team. All night the Lithuianian fans continued to shout, cheer and show their support for their team and country. I really believe that the team rallied behind their fans and kept the game competitive throughout the night.

I had a great time and the experience itself was amazing. However, I will always remember the energy and pride the Lithuanian fans showed. That will definitely stick out the most when I think of my first Olympic competition experience.

-Jamal Jones

Posted by olympian on July 30, 2012 | Filed under: GWSB News.