As the 2025–2026 basketball season rapidly approaches, Vilnius “Rytas” has confirmed that the team roster is finalized and the squad is ready for new challenges in both the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) and the FIBA Champions League.
This summer, the club announced that Giedrius Žibėnas will continue to lead the team for the fifth consecutive season, joined by experienced Finn Vesa Vertio and promising Lithuanian coach Nedas Pacevičius, who also has head coaching experience. As sports director Artūras Jomantas emphasizes: “We built a team with strong character. They are either fighters who want to achieve victories, or players eager to reach a higher level.”
The main Rytas roster this year includes Danielius Kasparas and Nikas Stuknys, previously part of the Rytas-2 team, while more youth program players will get opportunities throughout the season. “Rytas hasn’t had this much talented youth in a long time, so it would be a mistake not to give them a chance. We expect them to contribute energy and hard work to our men’s team.”
Last season, N. Stuknys averaged just over 24 minutes in the “7bet-NKL” championship, scoring 10 points (56.3% two-point, 35.5% three-point), grabbing 4.9 rebounds, making 1.5 steals, and recording 13.8 efficiency points. This summer, he won a silver medal at the European U20 Championship, averaging 6.4 points, 3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 9.9 efficiency points. His teammate Danielius Kasparas last season averaged 27 minutes per game, scoring 15.1 points (65.5% two-point, 46% three-point), grabbing 5.8 rebounds, and recording 17.1 efficiency points.
The breakthrough of youth, contributions from newcomers, the importance of veterans, and the team’s character are all topics in the rytasvilnius.lt interview with Rytas sports director Artūras Jomantas.
Q: Earlier this year, the contract with Gytis Masiulis was extended. Last season, he was planned to be used as a center. Has his role this season become clear?
A: We are happy to have reached an agreement mid-season. He is intended as a big man, and this season he will indeed be entrusted with a major role, especially given the variety in the team roster.
Q: The contract with Martynas Paliukėnas was also extended this spring. He is already a fan-favorite defensive specialist. What role do you see for him this season? Will it change from last season? What is his role both on the court and in the locker room?
A: Martynas is an experienced Lithuanian, and being from Vilnius, we value and protect players like him. His dedication to the team is unquestionable. Since his arrival, we have seen his effort in every opportunity, not just in training. He always gives 110%. He is a versatile player, capable of guarding multiple positions, even 3-4. Players like him are always needed by coaches and teammates, and his dedication serves as an example to others.
Q: Ignas Sargiūnas shone in the finals as a young, energetic player. His retention was clear, but what role do you see for him this season? Is he ready to step into a leadership position?
A: When we signed Sargiūnas last summer, we already saw his potential. Now, especially after the departure of the team captain, we expect him to take another step forward and become one of the leading players this season. We value his energy, dedication, and commitment in every attack.
Q: You also retained A. Gudaitis mid-season. How does he contribute to the team?
A: Artūras is a true fighter in the paint. We saw how he adapted last season and the game he demonstrated, so naturally, we expect even more from him in the new season. He is also a key voice in the locker room – always straightforward, which inspires the team to fight harder on the court.
Q: Rytas fans mention a miracle – managing to keep Gytis Radzevičius, even though mid-season it seemed almost impossible. After parting with captain Margiris Normantas, retaining this player was likely a priority. What was the secret to this decision, and what does Gytis staying mean for the team, locker room, and fans?
A: We heard all the rumors mid-season that it seemed impossible to keep him and that he would go to the EuroLeague. Honestly, we ourselves were planning as if he would not be here, but we tried every possible way to extend our cooperation. We made great efforts, but at the same time understood that this summer was a big opportunity for him to go where all European players dream of. If he had gone, we would have been happy for him, but since he stayed, we are even more pleased. His staying shows his respect and love for the organization, the city, and, of course, the fans.
Q: The first summer addition, Simonas Lukošius, returned from the NCAA. How did he come to Rytas’ attention, and what are his strongest qualities? Does Rytas actively seek young talent abroad as well?
A: We saw Simas playing in the NCAA in the spring. Our priority is always Lithuanian players, especially those with strong ties to Vilnius. He also spent part of his career in Germany, but studied at the Vilnius Basketball School, so returning here feels natural. We believe he can contribute a lot, and when the opportunity arose, we signed him.
Q: On July 27, Rytas surprised the market by introducing three players in one day. Jerrick Harding was the top scorer in the ACB last season. How did you manage to bring such a player to Vilnius, and what role will he play in Rytas’ offense?
A: We monitored Harding since mid-season. There were no concrete talks, just thoughts about how great it would be to have him with us. We focused on him during the summer, with many discussions and remote meetings. Finally, we reached an agreement. We expect him to contribute offensively as he did in the ACB. He is a versatile player, willing to work hard and help the team win.
Q: Kay Bruhnke was among the top scorers and most efficient LKL players last season. Is he ready to be an immediate rotation player, or is he more of a long-term project?
A: I’ve known Kay since his last years playing in Mažeikiai. I know his attitude, desire to improve, and character. We decided he can stretch the floor and we have confidence in him. He is young and has room to grow within our organization, proving his value on the court.
Q: Jordan Walker scored 54 points in a FIBA Champions League game, setting a scoring record. How does his arrival change Rytas, and how will you pair him with Harding?
A: After failing to sign Cole, we looked for a point guard who could score and create opportunities. We gathered detailed information and concluded Walker can contribute significantly. Pairing him with Harding will be exciting. They both want to win and will do everything for the team’s success.
Q: In August, Jacob Wiley joined – an experienced, athletic big man who can play both 4 and 5. What contributions do you expect – aggression, energy, or European experience? How does he complement Masiulis and Gudaitis?
A: Wiley can compete for rebounds, be aggressive, and play tough basketball, transitioning quickly from defense to offense. He is exactly the type of player we were looking for. With three big men, coaches will decide rotations depending on opponents and situations.
Q: There are concerns that it might be difficult to keep certain players during the season. Does this mean the market will be monitored year-round?
A: The market is monitored all year, regardless of circumstances. This is part of our work. If a player receives an offer to move up, we see it as recognition. Players must prove their value on the court, and we are ready to adapt.
Q: Returning to youth players, Danielius Kasparas and Nikas Stuknys are now full squad members. What do you expect from the youth additions?
A: They complete our roster. The youth program works consistently to give players opportunities to advance. Rytas hasn’t had this much talented youth in a long time, so giving them playing time is crucial. We expect energy and hard work. They will transition gradually into the main team.
Q: Last season, Ignas Urbonas and Gantas Križanauskas got playing time. Will they have a role this season?
A: The likelihood is high. Opportunities depend on circumstances like injuries, schedules, and personal matters. Youth must be ready to join the main team.
Q: The team has a lot of offensive potential. What will the style be this season – fast-paced offense or aggressive defense? How do you assess the team’s chances locally and internationally?
A: The style won’t change drastically. We will aim for fast, physical play with aggressive defense. Ultimately, the team that scores more points wins.
Q: Rytas is known for fighter character and unpredictability. What is this team’s character and main goal?
A: Some games will be better, others worse, but we built a team with strong character. They are either fighters aiming for victories or players eager to rise to a higher level. Winning comes either by allowing fewer points or scoring more. With our fans, achieving this becomes simpler. We are ready to fight.