The first LKL derby of the season, supported by Betsson, ended with a victory for the reigning Lithuanian champions, Zalgiris Kaunas (6–1).
Tomas Masiulis’ squad defended their home court with a 79–75 (15–21, 27–17, 22–14, 15–23) win over Rytas Vilnius (5–2) and became the sole leader of the standings.
For both teams, this was the lowest-scoring game of the season. Until now, Zalgiris had never scored fewer than 85 points, while Rytas had always reached at least 84.
In the firstquarter, Rytas’ only scorer for nearly five minutes was Ignas Sargiūnas, but that was enough to keep Rytas in front (10–8). Soon after, Jerrick Harding took over offensively, remaining the only Rytas player to score for several minutes (20–15). At the end of the quarter, Martynas Paliukėnas added one free throw, and Vilnius team led 21–15.
In the second quarter, Rytas extended its lead to double digits (31–21) after points from Jordan Walker. However, Sylvain Francisco and Ąžuolas Tubelis quickly brought Zalgiris back into the game (31–32). Then came Deividas Sirvydis’ show — after his 8 straight points and a Maodo Lo three-pointer at the buzzer, the hosts took control, 42–38.
After halftime, Zalgiris tightened its defense, making life difficult for Rytas on offense. Meanwhile, the Kaunas side gradually increased its lead and reached double digits (52–42). The visitors managed to stabilize the game but couldn’t significantly cut the deficit. Entering the final quarter, Zalgiris held a solid advantage, 64–52.
In the last ten minutes, Jerrick Harding and Ignas Brazdeikis exchanged successful plays, but the situation didn’t change much (76–63). Both teams traded baskets, which suited the green-and-whites, who maintained a safe margin. Jordan Walker’s late effort brought Rytas closer, but time ran out for a comeback