By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Zalgiris Kaunas is boosting the local core of the roster by signing Arnas Butkevicius, the MVP of the last LKL finals.
Per the official announcement: After announcing the signing of Laurynas Birutis earlier in the month, Zalgiris brings forward its second newcomer for the upcoming season, as Lithuanian international Arnas Butkevicius joins the team.
Butkevicius spent the last five years in the capital of Lithuania, as he recently captained Rytas Vilnius. Last season he led his former team to the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) title, earning Finals MVP honors in the meanwhile.
The forward averaged 8.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 13 efficiency per game, and improved his contribution to 11 points and 15.6 efficiency in the league finals
Butkevicius‘ numbers in the Basketball Champions League were similar, as the 29-year-old averaged 7.4 points and 5 rebounds.
“First of all, I would like to thank Zalgiris organization for believing in me and for the chance to compete at the highest level. I can promise I will give my all to the team. The decision to join Zalgiris wasn’t difficult, as the club and coach Kazys have shown big interest. I know how ambitious this team is, so I’m looking forward to join forces”, – said Butkevicius.
Butkevicius has represented Zalgiris’ youth team in the EuroLeague youth tournament. During his career, he has also worn the jerseys of Neringa, Sakalai, Lietkabelis and Neptunas. With the latter club, under the guidance of current Zalgiris coach Kazys Maksvytis, Butkevicius also made his EuroLeague debut.
“Arnas’ stability and abilities in recent years have not left any doubts, so we wanted to see him in Kaunas. We know each other well, we worked together in the EuroLeague, which I think is very important for a basketball player returning to the top level”, – said coach Maksvytis.
The 196 cm tall player signed a two-year contract with Zalgiris Kaunas.