Arvydas Macijauskas has Rytas Vilnius jersey retired / News - Basketnews.com

Arvydas Macijauskas watched his Rytas Vilnius jersey retirement ceremony and answered questions regarding a potential cooperation with the club.

Credit: Betsafe-LKL Credit Betsafe-LKL

Rytas Vilnius legend Arvydas Macijauskas, whose jersey will be hanging from the rafters of the Jeep arena, expressed his support for the team from the Lithuanian capital and commented on the opportunity to get involved in its management.

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Macijauskas played for Rytas between 1999 and 2003, when he arrived from Klaipeda. Perhaps the most famous achievements of his career were recorded at that time.

He won his first LKL title in 2002 and was voted twice (2002, 2003) as the MVP of the LKL finals, in addition to being the 2003 season MVP.

He became the first player whose shirt has been retired in two arenas - Klaipeda and Vilnius.

After Macijauskas joined the team, Lietuvos Rytas quickly became competitive on the international stage as well. In 1999-2000, Vilnius reached the semi-finals of the European Cup.

"I am glad that I could contribute to the rise of the team," Macijauskas told BasketNews' Lukas Katilius.

Then the team was formed, the fan base was formed and the next generation was formed. We won championships and grew together in a small arena. I think that I personally contributed a lot to the rise of the team in those days", Macas smiled.

Following the end of her career in 2008, Macijauskas took a break from active participation in basketball activities. The retired legend, who won the 2003 EuroBasket with Lithuania, said he'd consider a role in basketball.

"Perhaps, there are all kinds of considerations, thoughts," said Macijauskas. "Many years have passed since I actually finished my career. I watch basketball, I go to the games when they're on. I monitor organizational issues, I participate, I'm not far away and I'm enjoying myself."

However, Macijauskas added that there were no specific talks with Rytas regarding the position of sports director.

"No", Macijauskas answered when asked about possible talks with the club.

"I know the owners, we communicate, as well as with other shareholders. We have a great relationship, and we're all happy when we win and sad when we lose."

Macijauskas assessed Rytas' long-term vision, pointing out that it's "excellent."

"There was a hole, but there are always holes. There are pitfalls in families, in business, and in life. Every team has to have ups and downs. I am glad that we are on a good path, growing and fighting. Of course, you want better fights, more victories, but everything takes time."

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