"It Wasn't a Beautiful Game!" Masiulis After Victory Against Zvezda: "That's a Question for Management, Not for Me!" /VIDEO/

Pulse Sports Team 21:48 - 24 September 2026

Žalgiris basketball players secured a victory in their EuroLeague opener, defeating Crvena zvezda Meridianbet 83:77 in Belgrade. After the match, Lithuanian coach Tomas Masiulis addressed reporters at the press conference.

You could follow the live coverage of KK Crvena zvezda Meridianbet – KK Žalgiris on Sportal.

In a tightly contested match at the Arena, Žalgiris once again proved to be a significant challenge for Crvena zvezda, defeating them on their home court.

The game was decided in the closing moments, where the Lithuanians displayed greater composure and execution, securing an opening victory.

After the game, visiting coach Tomas Masiulis shared his impressions.

"It wasn't a beautiful game. I want to thank the players and the fans who came to support us. The second half was good defensively from our side; in the first half, we gave up too many easy points and offensive rebounds. I'm happy with how we fought for every ball." - Tomas Masiulis

The Žalgiris strategist discussed why he was agitated and then compared the current team to last year's squad.

"Due to defensive mistakes, when we allowed them easy threes, perhaps that's why I was nervous. It's hard to say now; last year we had a great team, now we have different players, we play differently, and we are still learning." - Tomas Masiulis

Masiulis also spoke about the importance of Jonas Valančiūnas's presence for the Lithuanian team.

"We are proud to have him. He wanted to come back and play here, which shows us that our organization is doing a great job. He still wants to learn; he played 14 years in the NBA, which is a different kind of basketball. He's a good guy, everyone listens to him and wants to learn from him. He doesn't play to be the MVP, but for this team to win." - Tomas Masiulis

He declined to comment on whether the Final Four is the team's goal this season.

"That question isn't for me; it's more for the management. The goal is to get better day by day. I don't look too far ahead; last year, 60% of coaches were fired, so I just focus on my job." - Tomas Masiulis

EuroLeague Standings

VIDEO: Zvezda's Pre-Žalgiris Practice – What the Red and Whites Focused On

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