Zalgiris opens 2017-18 with win over Dzukija

Lithuania’s top team, B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas took to the court and logged in their first game in the domestic Lithuanian LKL yesterday. They faced off against Dzukija in one of two games that were on tap. The other contest was between Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius and Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys.

Dzukija vs. Zalgiris, 70-89

The Lithuanian powerhouse flexed its muscles and the message was loud and clear. Zalgiris will be one of the teams to beat, once again, this 2017-18. They connected on twice the number of 3-pointers Dzukija was able to muster, with 12-of-25 hits from long range. Zalgiris was also the better defensive team with six steals tallied.

Paulius Valinskas had the hot hand, making 4-of-5 shots from downtown, en route to his game-high 16 points for Zalgiris. Will they

Will they add another Lithuanian title to their chest of trophies after all is said and done this season? We will see. So far, they have gotten off on the right foot.

Lietuvos Rytas vs. Pieno Zvaigzdes, 102-90

This ended up being a classic shootout between both clubs. Their offenses were in high gear as players knocked down open shots from deep. Robert Carter dropped an impressive 25 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Martinas Echodas added 17 markers for the victors.

Pieno Zvaigzdes had a more balanced plan of attack, with seven of their players chipping in with double-figure scoring. Nikita Balashov led them with 16 points and seven rebounds.