Grigonis returns to Žalgiris: 'I have a lot to prove'

Marius Grigonis is returning to BC Žalgiris Kaunas, signing a one-year contract that will keep him with the Lithuanian club through the end of the 2026-2027 season. The 198 cm tall guard expressed his eagerness to prove his capabilities and make a significant impact upon his return to the team he has a long history with.

"When the season starts, then it will be possible to delve into that feeling, but now everything is fine. It's still home, you know everything, many of the same people, and I see you've added more people, so we'll see, it's a mix of emotions," Grigonis said in an interview with "Žalgiris TV." He also mentioned maintaining contact with former teammate Paulius Jankūnas and noted that the timing felt right for both Panathinaikos and Žalgiris.

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When the season starts, then it will be possible to delve into that feeling, but now everything is fine. It's still home, you know everything, many of the same people, and I see you've added more people, so we'll see, it's a mix of emotions.

Grigonis reflected on his personal development since his last tenure with Žalgiris, noting the significant changes in his life, particularly becoming a father to three children. "Back then I had only one child, now - two more. Like everyone else, maturing over time, I have gained a lot of experience, both good and bad. I would say I have changed a lot. Everything is different, but at the same time the same," he shared with a smile.

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Back then I had only one child, now - two more. Like everyone else, maturing over time, I have gained a lot of experience, both good and bad. I would say I have changed a lot. Everything is different, but at the same time the same.

The player also highlighted his relationship with head coach Tomas Masiulis, emphasizing their mutual understanding. "He knows me, I know him – however much we've met, jokes are thrown around, but I'm already at an age where I understand basketball more and grasp what the coach wants faster. You can talk to coaches as much as you want, but the most important thing is how you integrate into the team. I want to be meaningful, I want to be important. I have a lot to prove," Grigonis added.

Fans can watch the full interview on Žalgiris's YouTube channel, where Grigonis also discusses his desire to play in a full Žalgiris arena again. The "Žalgiris Insider" platform features a more in-depth interview with club president Paulius Jankūnas about Grigonis.

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He knows me, I know him – however much we've met, jokes are thrown around, but I'm already at an age where I understand basketball more and grasp what the coach wants faster. You can talk to coaches as much as you want, but the most important thing is how you integrate into the team. I want to be meaningful, I want to be important. I have a lot to prove.