“Rytas Coach Discusses Žalgiris’ Chances Against Šaras’ Fenerbahce in EuroLeague”
Rytas coach Giedrius Žibėnas spoke to the media before Sunday’s game against Žalgiris. He praised Kaunas for reaching the EuroLeague playoffs.
Process and expectations
Žibėnas noted this will be the fifth meeting between the clubs this season. He described the match as part of a longer process.
He acknowledged fan expectations for a win. Past seasons set a high standard, he said.
Recent form and recovery
The coach addressed the loss in Šiauliai. That game came just after a Champions League quarterfinal in the Czech Republic.
Žibėnas said the team did not recover fully and were punished for it. He called the result realistic.
Arena atmosphere and squad status
All tickets for the upcoming match have been sold. The packed arena, he said, forces the team to lift its level.
He confirmed the full squad is available. No excuses will be accepted, he added.
Players and contracts
Gytis Masiulis chose to remain in Vilnius by merit of his play. Žibėnas said Masiulis earned the right to stay.
The coach praised Masiulis’ maturity and his growth into a dependable fighter. The veteran presence is valuable.
M. Paliukėnas remains without a contract. Žibėnas described any deal as mostly a formality.
Goals and mindset
The primary objective is victory. Žibėnas said Rytas and winning belong in the same sentence.
He accepted that a loss would disappoint many fans. That reaction, he added, would be normal.
EuroLeague perspective
Žibėnas touched on the broader EuroLeague picture. He said he cannot claim neutrality about a Lithuanian club in the competition.
He congratulated Žalgiris and their coach, Tomas Masiulis. He noted that Kaunas have proven themselves in Europe.
The Rytas coach discussed Žalgiris’ chances versus Šaras’ Fenerbahce in EuroLeague conversations. He stressed the tournament’s unpredictability.
Asked if Žalgiris might be relaxed after recent success, he said he cannot control their rotation. Rytas must control its own preparation.
