Paulius Jankunas: “It’s home for me” 0

Zalgiris’ long-time captain Paulius Jankunas became the all-time leader in rebounds in EuroLeague history, and the league prepared a video report about the 35-year-old veteran.

Zalgiris Head Coach Sarunas Jasikevicius stressed the importance of the big man in the team’s success in recent years.

“We were in the same locker room for so many years both in the national team, and in Zalgiris, and it’s very difficult to imagine the success of the club through all these years without Paulius.”

Jankunas has played in the EuroLeague since 2003 and with 1816 boards to his name, he is the all-time league leader.

“He’s the best rebounder in EuroLeague history. Nobody’s got more than him, it’s all simple. Paulius Jankunas is the best in this department.”

Jankunas leaves another EuroLeague legend, Real Madrid’s Felipe Reyes behind him, as he trails with 1793 rebounds to his name.

“When we were younger, I remember we were fighting a lot. We didn’t count the rebounds. He’s a great rebounder, I like to get my rebounds, too. It was and still is a great rivalry. I’m very happy I can compare to such a legend.”

“Zalgiris is not a club for me, it’s just home. It’s not work, it’s not a job. It’s passion, family, everything. I grew up here and I grew old here.”