By Aris Barkas/ info@eurohoops.net
As Zalgiris Kaunas began its preparation ahead of the upcoming season, head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius talked to the local press discussing, among other things, his flirt with Barcelona.
“We had some serious conversations with Barcelona. But then, I realized that it is better for me to stay with Zalgiris in Kaunas. There were many factors that led me to this decision. Despite what the press have written, I wasn’t even close to an agreement with them,” said the coach of Zalgiris as reported by Lithuanian website Basketnews.lt
However, according to Eurohoops sources, not only was Saras the grand favorite to sit at the helm of Barcelona, but he had struck a deal with the club. Actually, he was one step away from being announced as the Catanalan’s new coach.
What prevented the deal from coming into fruition? Why a Liga Endesa rule that requires a two-year experience from prospective head coaches of the league.