Francisco leads Žalgiris to dominant Game 1 win, addresses future rumors

Žalgiris Kaunas secured a dominant 107:75 victory over Utenos Juventus in the opening game of the Lithuanian league finals, extending their impressive winning streak to 33 consecutive domestic games. The team established an early double-digit lead and never looked back, ultimately winning by a record 34-point margin.

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Physicality and the fact that we didn't let them play fast, but the most important thing was physical defense.

Guard Keenan Francisco highlighted the team's "physical defense" and "highest level" of concentration as crucial factors in their win. "If you let the opponent play how they want, then they can beat anyone," Francisco stated, emphasizing the importance of disrupting the opponent's rhythm. He contributed 16 points, 6 assists, and 3 rebounds in 22 minutes of play.

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If you let the opponent play how they want, then they can beat anyone.

Francisco also received a technical foul during the game, which he attributed to frustration with officiating. "The referees know why," he commented, expressing disappointment with what he perceived as questionable calls. "It was just frustration. Just let us play."

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The referees know why. I don't know how many years I've been a professional basketball player, but for the first time I got a technical foul.

Amidst reports of advanced negotiations for a long-term, high-value contract with French club ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, Francisco acknowledged the rumors but reiterated his primary ambition. "I'm still thinking about the NBA, many teams are around," he said, while also expressing excitement about the potential for a strong team in his hometown. "It's great, especially because it's my hometown."

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It was just frustration. Just let us play.