Five Rounds In: Familiar Power, New Faces, and Early Shake-Up's in LKL sponsored by Betsson

Five rounds into the new LKL sponsored by Betsson season, one thing is already clear — the competition isn’t waiting for anyone. Reigning champions Žalgiris Kaunas remain the league’s measuring stick, Rytas Vilnius look hungry to reclaim the throne, and a few new stories are already taking shape across Lithuania’s basketball map.

Champions steady, but not flawless

For Žalgiris Kaunas, the campaign began the way it should — with a convincing road win in Jonava. The green-and-whites flexed their depth early, with Moses Wright, Edgaras Ulanovas, and a newcomer Ąžuolas Tubelis setting the tone for the title defense. Even without key guards Maodo Lo and Dovydas Giedraitis at times, Žalgiris showed their trademark composure and structure.

But this season’s early stretch hasn’t been a walk in the park. Domestic rivals are more aggressive, faster, and deeper than ever. Still, under Tomas Masiulis, the Kaunas powerhouse remains a team that knows how to grind out wins when it matters most — and that’s what separates champions from contenders.

Rytas bring the firepower

If Žalgiris are all about control, Rytas Vilnius are bringing pure energy. The capital club came out flying, taking down Nevėžis-Paskolų klubas Kėdainiai, Gargždai, and others in double-digit wins. Vilnius’ offense looks electric — ball movement, pace, and confidence from every position.

Head coach Giedrius Žibėnas seems to have found the right mix of aggression and composure. With returning stars leading the charge and new faces adding depth, Rytas’ intent is crystal clear: to bring the trophy back to Vilnius. And based on their early form, they’re not bluffing.

Newcomers learning the hard way

Every league needs its fresh story, and this year it’s Gargždai. The newcomers are living through the classic rookie experience — tough lessons, narrow defeats, and flashes of potential. Their first home game ended in disappointment after Šiauliai spoiled the arena-opening celebration, but moments of grit and team chemistry suggest this group has the right attitude to grow.

In a league where experience often rules, Gargždai are learning what it takes to compete night after night. The scoreboard doesn’t always show it, but they’re getting closer.

All eyes on Cameron Reddish

One of the most intriguing storylines early on has come from Šiauliai. Former NBA first-round pick Cameron Reddish arrived in Lithuania as one of the league’s most high-profile imports — and the spotlight followed him immediately. His debut drew curiosity and cameras, and though his performances have been uneven, the flashes of talent are unmistakable.

Reddish is still adjusting to the European pace and physicality, but when he’s locked in, he looks every bit like an elite-level scorer. The question is consistency — and if he finds it, Šiauliai could rise fast in the standings.

A coaching shake-up already

Change has already hit Jonava. After a sluggish start, the club parted ways with head coach Paulius Juodis and handed the reins to Steponas Babrauskas. A fierce competitor during his playing days, Babrauskas brings edge, energy, and accountability. The move signals urgency — Jonava doesn’t plan to linger near the bottom for long.

Standings shaping up

Five rounds in, the LKL sponsored by Betsson table already reflects both experience and early ambition.

Žalgiris Kaunas sit atop the standings as the only unbeaten team at 4–0, averaging nearly 91 points per game while allowing just 72.3 — a defensive wall paired with steady offense.

Right behind, Rytas Vilnius (3–1) and Neptūnas Klaipėda (3–1) share the same record, chasing closely with similar offensive firepower. Lietkabelis Panevėžys (3–2) and Šiauliai (3–2) round out the upper half, both proving they can compete with anyone on a good night.

In the middle pack, Juventus Utena (1–3) and Gargždai (1–3) are fighting to stabilize their form, while Jonava Hipocredit (1–4) and Nevėžis–Paskolų klubas (1–4) are still searching for rhythm.

Early numbers suggest no easy games ahead — and plenty of teams just one hot streak away from shaking up the table.

Early patterns, familiar ambitions

Five rounds aren’t enough to define a season, but they can reveal trends. Žalgiris are still the team to beat, Rytas are pushing hard, and everyone else is chasing, adapting, and trying to close the gap.

The season feels balanced — no easy wins, no guaranteed scripts. The LKL sponsored by Betsson is shaping up as a battlefield where every weekend writes a new storyline. And if the first five rounds are any indication, Lithuania’s basketball drama is only getting started.