Zalgiris emerged victorious against Rytas in a classic Lithuanian basketball showdown, securing a 97:94 win in a game that could have easily swung the other way.
For much of the game, we witnessed a back-and-forth battle. The first half was evenly contested, with Rytas edging slightly ahead in the third quarter.
In the final quarter, the team coached by the Italian expert sought to stage a comeback. They managed to level the score, but then Lukas Uleckas hit a shot to give the visitors a three-point lead.
Keenan Evans took the ball in his hands and made a two-point shot, then Marcus Foster lost the ball. As a result, Zalgiris executed a special play and quickly scored. Foster was once again the tragic figure as he committed a foul on offense. Edgaras Ulanovas then made two free throws, sealing the fate of the game.
Lukas Lekavicius scored 17 points, while Laurynas Birutis had one point less. On the other side, Arnas Velicka scored 18 points and was the top scorer in this matchup.
Zalgiris is currently in first place with 18 wins in the Lithuanian league. Rytas is second with 16 wins and three losses. In the next round, the team from Kaunas will play against Pieno, while Rytas will face Neptunas.