Giedrius Žibėnas breaks silence with first post after Rytas sacking

Giedrius Žibėnas, recently dismissed as head coach of the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) club Rytas, has broken his silence with an emotional Instagram post, marking his first public statement since his departure on May 25. The post, shared on the morning of June 18, featured a series of photos from his tenure with the Vilnius-based club, accompanied by the English quote: "Pressure should not exceed the pleasure of the journey."

Žibėnas was relieved of his duties two days after Rytas suffered a shock defeat in the LKL quarterfinals against Juventus Utena, a result that dashed the club's hopes for the season. The dismissal came despite the team having won the FIBA Champions League just two weeks earlier, underscoring the high expectations that had been placed on the coach during his five-and-a-half-year reign.

In an official statement at the time of the sacking, Artūras Jomantas, Rytas' sports director, acknowledged the club's gratitude: "Giedrius has left a very bright mark on our club. During his time, the team achieved important victories, won titles, and wrote one of the most significant pages in the club's history. We are sincerely grateful for everything he gave to Rytas." The club also recognized that the finish of the season did not meet their own standards or the expectations of the community.

Under Žibėnas's leadership, Rytas reached the LKL finals five times, winning two championships, and twice pushed rivals Kauno Žalgiris to decisive fifth games in the series. His sacking has prompted a search for a new head coach, with Kazys Maksvytis emerging as the top candidate. However, the potential appointment faces opposition from Rytas fans, who have expressed their resistance. The club has also reportedly prepared a backup plan should negotiations with Maksvytis falter.