Kaunas, Lithuania – Juventus manager Eimantas Skersis attempted too pay a fine of 1072 euros in pennies at the Lithuanian Basketball Federation headquarters, ”Krepšinios namus,” on Tuesday, November 28th. The unusual payment method stemmed from a penalty levied against Skersis for comments made during a live broadcast on September 25th.
The Ethics and Disciplinary Committee of the lithuanian Basketball Federation (EDAK) had fined Skersis after determining his statements during the broadcast were “insulting, humiliating and contrary to the principles of honorable behavior and respect” towards Jonas Vainauskas, and that they “discredit the basketball community and violate the ethical standards for officials.” Skersis was given until today to settle the debt.Upon arriving at the headquarters with a bucket filled with small denomination coins, Skersis stated, “1072 – as much as it is needed. I have been saving all my life, I have to give it now.” However, the federation’s accountant refused to accept the cash payment, requesting instead a bank transfer.
“They didn’t accept it, chased them away. They told me to go find it and pay,” Skersis reportedly lamented after being denied the unconventional form of payment. The incident highlights the ongoing dispute between Skersis and the federation following the initial ruling.
