On February 24, 2026, it will mark exactly four years since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which continues to lead to the occupation of Ukrainian territories. During recent basketball matches, the rivalry between the teams "Žalgiris" and "Ryto" has been likened to war by some fans. However, supporters of "Ryto" wanted to highlight the reality of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

At a recent game, the fans from "B tribūna" displayed a banner that depicted bombed buildings in Ukraine alongside a sunflower and a message reading: "Four years of struggle." This act was a poignant reminder of the suffering ongoing in Ukraine and aimed to raise awareness among spectators, particularly in a spirited atmosphere that usually centers around sports rivalry rather than political issues.

Such expressions from sports fans can serve to bridge the world of sports and significant social issues, bringing attention to matters that may often be overlooked amidst the entertainment of athletic events. The visibility of this message during a highly publicized match illustrates how sports arenas can become platforms for broader societal commentary, especially in a context as significant as the war in Ukraine.