Finally, the new Euro Cup season is here and it will be the very first game of this tournament, which will be held at Siemens Arena, in Vilnius. Rytas Vilnius vs Lokomotiv Kuban played in this tournament last year, however, Rytas Vilnius could not advance to the playoffs and Lokomotiv could not reach the semifinals. We‘ll see how they will do this year. Please, read our preview here below.
Rytas Vilnius
Rytas Vilnius ended last season in this tournament with big disappointment not only they lost against Valencia also they lost their captain Chris Kramer. Kramer was a true leader of the team, no wonder that after his injury team lost its spirit and the whole season ended very bad. This season they start with even less money and some new players. So far Cruz and Kairys are looking very well. Holloway and Bickauskis only need to adapt, but for now, the team looks like they can make some noise this year. They played only 3 games, but team guards are already recognized. Bendzius, Kairys, Butkevicius and Cruz. All these players will carry the team in every game. However, Rytas Vilnius have other players who can surprise opponents-Holloway, Echodas, Bairstow. If team spirit will be well they surely can overcome such opponent as the Kuban.
Lokomotiv Kuban
Last season was quite disappointing for such a team, they lost both VTB and Eurocup in the quarter-finals. This year the Kuban has gathered a weaker squad than last year. However, having guards like-Kalnietis, Cummings, Fridzon allows them to play more unpredictable basketball. However under the rim, they have only Williams, who is the only 2.01m, so opponents will have an advantage here. And knowing how the good start is important for players‘ confidence, Rytas is a very poor choice for Lokomotiv, moreover in an away game. Still this should be an interesting game, both teams might lack confidence so far, Russians might try to use it, but first, they must concentrate.
Rytas Vilnius vs Lokomotiv Kuban H2H
Lokomotiv and Rytas faced each other 12 times. 8 times Russians were stronger including last time back to 2017 also in Eurocup. However, Lithuanians know well how to use home advantage, so it might be quite an unpredictable game.
Article image is taken from https://www.eurocupbasketball.com