Vilnius 'Rytas' basketball team secured a decisive victory against Panevėžys 'Lietkabelis' in the KMT final four, setting up a championship match against Kaunas 'Žalgiris'.
In a commanding performance, Vilnius 'Rytas' triumphed over Panevėžys 'Lietkabelis' with a score of 106-89 during the KMT finals held in Šiauliai. From the beginning of the match, Rytas exhibited dominance, scoring 29 points in the first quarter and heading into halftime with a substantial 19-point lead at 56-37. Coach G. Žibėnas expressed relief about overcoming pre-game tensions that plagued the team throughout the week due to injuries and previous losses to 'Lietkabelis'.
Žibėnas noted that the players' anticipation for the match helped them manage their anxiety effectively. He emphasized the importance of making early shots, which instilled confidence in the players and allowed them to perform well under pressure. The team's overall strategy to stop the opponents' star players also played a crucial role in securing the victory, making it a tactical win alongside a strong offensive display.
Looking ahead, 'Rytas' is set to compete against capital rivals, Kaunas 'Žalgiris', who earned their spot in the final by decisively defeating Klaipėda 'Neptūnas' with a score of 119-81 in their semifinal matchup. With both teams showcasing strong performances leading to the finals, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter, and Coach Žibėnas remains confident about his team's chances, asserting that they believe they can win against the favorites.
