#ZalgirisVirgin Grigonis: “When the arena is full, you’re left speechless” 0

Zalgiris Kaunas guard Marius Grigonis’ memory isn’t entirely clear on his visit to Kaunas Sports Hall, but to this day, he can’t forget some of the details. The Zalgiris man talked about his first time supporting the green-and-whites in Zalgiris TV’s #ZalgirisVirgin show.

“I can’t remember the exact day, but it should of been when my dad took me to the Kaunas Sports Hall. And what I remember is the atmosphere, those white benches, the smell of fried bread. I guess that’s how I lost my Zalgiris virginity. I probably didn’t understand basketball too well, but I felt the atmosphere and aura.”

The basketball player admitted that watching basketball live and on TV were two very different things for him. According to Grigonis, the only way you can really feel the atmosphere is if you’re there with thousands of other fans.

“You can see it better on TV, with replays. You can study the game more. When you go to the Hall, to Zalgirio Arena – you go to support the team. Perhaps you won’t see everything that happens on the court, but you’re there to support the team with chants, clapping, and so on, you pick up the good energy. Sometimes it’s sad, but there’s just so many emotions involved. It’s an experience you can’t miss.”

The player also remembers his first game in Zalgirio Arena representing Zalgiris. It was a VTB United League matchup against Nizhny Novgorod.

“I ran out there for maybe 30 seconds. I don’t remember what happened at all. My legs, my feet went numb. And I’m just out there, hoping I don’t do anything stupid, so the others don’t laugh at me. Those nerves are always there, especially in the first games. You’re thinking that all your friends, all your family is watching. You can’t let them down.”

While he now has a much bigger standing on the team than he did six years ago, the arena still gives him chills. Grigonis is certain – everyone must feel the atmosphere of a Zalgiris game.

“When the arena is full, and to come as a player, you feel the energy, especially in EuroLeague games. When it’s full, you’re left speechless. Everyone goes out there with a special emotion. You have to see it at least once. But after the first one, there will most likely be a second one, because you’ll want to come back. I don’t know if there’s anyone in Lithuania who hasn’t been to a game, but I recommend it.”