Valanciunas shares his impressions after Žalgiris defeat

Jonas Valanciunas shared his thoughts after Žalgiris Kaunas suffered a narrow 93-91 defeat to defending EuroLeague champions Olympiacos in their first home game of the season.

The Lithuanian centre finished with 11 points, six rebounds and seven assists in 24 minutes, but it was the atmosphere inside the Žalgiris Arena that left the biggest impression on him.

“It was an incredible atmosphere. I won't lie, it was probably one of the first times I have played in an atmosphere like this,” Valanciunas said after the game.

He admitted that Žalgiris had opportunities to win but pointed to turnovers and moments of uncertainty as factors in the two-point defeat. The Lithuanian also mentionned that the team is still adapting and has several key players missing.

Valanciunas was particularly impressed by teammate Ąžuolas Tubelis, who scored 19 points. He also spoke about the presence of two legendary centres, Shaquille O'Neal and Arvydas Sabonis, in the arena.

“The aura of the centres was there today. It is great to play and compete when that aura is around,” Valanciunas said.