Žalgiris Coach Reflects on Season-Ending Overtime Loss to Fenerbahçe

The EuroLeague quarterfinal series has concluded, with BC Žalgiris falling to Fenerbahçe after a hard-fought overtime battle. While the team displayed commendable fighting spirit and the fans offered unwavering support, the international season ends here. Coach Kazys Maksvytis, speaking after the game, delved into the crucial junctures of the match, particularly the final moments of the fourth quarter and overtime. He pondered tactical decisions, such as whether Sylvain Francisco should have intentionally missed a free throw, and defensive assignments, like the switch involving Wade Baldwin's decisive points.

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Daugiau negaliu iš jų prašyti

Maksvytis also commented on the officiating, noting a shift in the referees' tolerance for physical contact in this game compared to previous encounters in the series. He suggested that the team might have been more comfortable with the tighter whistle but also pointed to the physicality in Istanbul as a factor in the series loss. The coach admitted that he might not have prepared the team adequately, citing a potential lack of intensity and physicality at the start of the game, perhaps a lingering effect from securing their playoff spot.

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Taip dabar atrodo, bet kas ten žino – būtume pabandę, būtų nepavykę, gal dabar kitaip šnekėtume.

Despite the disappointment, Maksvytis offered words of encouragement for Sylvain Francisco, who appeared visibly dejected. He highlighted Francisco's resilience and growth throughout the series, especially under intense defensive pressure. On a personal note, Maksvytis acknowledged the emotional challenge of facing his close friend, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, and his former club. While a part of him remains with Fenerbahçe, he ultimately extended his best wishes to them for the Final Four, recognizing their championship potential due to experienced players and current form.

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Bet varžovai sužaidė derinį, gal kažkiek prigavo Dustiną Slevą, kuris sudvejojo, ką daryti – W. Baldwinas prasiveržė į patogią pusę