{"id":8796,"date":"2025-11-24T20:00:37","date_gmt":"2025-11-24T18:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rytasvilnius.lt\/en\/?p=8796"},"modified":"2026-07-03T17:45:31","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T14:45:31","slug":"long-awaited-1-on-1-with-kay-bruhnke-from-germany-to-rytas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rytasvilnius.lt\/en\/news\/long-awaited-1-on-1-with-kay-bruhnke-from-germany-to-rytas\/","title":{"rendered":"Long-Awaited 1-ON-1 with Kay Bruhnke: From Germany to Rytas"},"content":{"rendered":"

The long-awaited 1-ON-1 interview with Rytas newcomer, presented by Me2U, is back! In this season\u2019s first conversation, Kay Bruhnke opens up about his journey to professional basketball, family influence, and his first impressions of Lithuania.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although Kay was born and raised in Germany, his family has deep Polish roots \u2013 both parents were born in Szczecin, and relatives still live in Poland. In his youth, he considered representing the Polish national team, but ultimately chose Germany, where he had more opportunities to play at the highest level and take on a leadership role.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I was younger, I wondered whether to play for Poland or Germany. I chose Germany because at that time the German team was playing in Division A, while Poland was in Division B. I wanted to play at the highest level and have a bigger role on the team. That was important for my development,\u201d said Kay Bruhnke.<\/span><\/p>\n

His first professional experience in Germany and later moving to Lithuania were significant steps. Ma\u017eeikiai offered him a new challenge, requiring adaptation to a new culture, playing style, and responsibility for the team.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMa\u017eeikiai was a challenge \u2013 a small town, but a lot of work and responsibility. Martynas Gecevi\u010dius was a real killer \u2013 one of the most dangerous shooters I\u2019ve ever played with. It was a season where I had to adapt but also show what I can do, and it gave me confidence,\u201d Kay Bruhnke shared.<\/span><\/p>\n

Vilnius made a special impression. The city, Old Town, riverbanks, local cafes, and passionate basketball community created a welcoming environment not just for sports, but for life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cVilnius is an amazing city. My girlfriend and I really enjoy it here \u2013 the Old Town, riverbanks, great food spots. People are very friendly, and the basketball culture here is different from Germany. It\u2019s not just a game, it\u2019s a real passion. I saw the fans\u2019 enthusiasm and the professionalism of the club from the first season. I knew I wanted to play here. When I got the call, it was an obvious decision \u2013 Rytas was my priority,\u201d Kay said.<\/span><\/p>\n

The full interview is available on Rytas\u2019 official YouTube channel.<\/span><\/p>\n