Tubelis Believes in Žalgiris's Comeback, Disregarding Historical Records

Facing a daunting 0-2 deficit in the EuroLeague quarterfinals against a formidable Fenerbahçe side, Žalgiris player A. Tubelis remains defiant, rejecting the notion that historical statistics dictate their fate. "History is completely irrelevant to me. This is my first year, and I will do everything to win and get back into the series," Tubelis stated with conviction, embodying a spirit of resilience that the Lithuanian champions desperately need.

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Man istorija visiškai nesvarbi. Čia mano pirmi metai, aš darysiu viską, kad laimėtume ir grįžtume į seriją.

The 24-year-old forward was a driving force in the second quarterfinal game, scoring 16 points and demonstrating significant effort. However, he pinpointed the team's struggles in rebounding as a critical factor in their defeat. "They started stronger, showed they are a very good team. We didn't defend well, and they grabbed 12 offensive rebounds while we only had five in total. I think that decided the game – they took most of the rebounds," Tubelis explained, underscoring the need for greater intensity and focus on securing possessions.

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Jie pradėjo stipriau, parodė, kad yra labai gera komanda. Neapsigynėme, o jie nusiėmė 12 kamuolių puolime, kai mes tik penkis iš viso. Manau, tai ir nulėmė rungtynes – jie pasiėmė didžiąją dalį atšokusių kamuolių.

Tubelis also emphasized the importance of sustained defensive effort and communication, noting lapses that allow opponents open shots. He stressed that the team must defend for the full 24-second shot clock and maintain concentration for the entire 40 minutes. From a Lithuanian perspective, Žalgiris represents more than just a basketball team; it's a symbol of national pride and resilience. The belief in a comeback, even against historical odds, resonates deeply with fans who have witnessed the team's fighting spirit throughout its storied history. The upcoming home games in Kaunas are crucial, and Tubelis is counting on the unwavering support of the passionate Žalgiris fanbase to help turn the tide.

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Atrodo, jau apsiginame, bet jie labai gerai juda. Kartais nekomunikuojame, vienas nemato savo žmogaus, tada įvyksta nesusikalbėjimas ir kažkas lieka laisvas. Taip ir gauname tuos metimus iš kampų. Turime gintis visas 24 sekundes, išlaikyti koncentraciją visas 40 minučių.