On Sunday afternoon, another palm print of a Zalgiris Kaunas team member was unveiled at McDonald’s Star Avenue in Kaunas. This year, the honor of leaving his mark in the symbolic place went to Arnas Butkevicius, who is now in his third season as a Zalgiris forward. He became the 23rd Zalgiris player to have his palm stamp added to the long-standing alley.
The unveiling ceremony was marked by a festive mood, applause and warm words from the fans. Butkevicius joined Keenan Evans, Lukas Lekavicius, Edgaras Ulanovas, Pauljus Jankunas, Mantas Kalnietis, Jonas Maciulis, Arvydas Sabonis and other Zalgiris players whose palms are immortalized in the McDonald’s Star Avenue.
“This is a very important award for me. It’s a great honor to be next to names like Sabonis and Jankunas. It’s great to be able to enjoy this moment with the fans - their support means a lot to us,” said Butkevicius during the unveiling ceremony.
Butkevicius is in his third season with Zalgiris. The Kaunas basketball club’s forward has become a shining example of Zalgiris’ values through his active involvement and close contact with the fans. The club has already announced that Butkevicius has extended his contract for another two years.
“We are delighted to continue a meaningful tradition with Zalgiris and honor players who inspire our community not only on the court, but also off it. This year, the palm print commemorates Butkevicius’ dedication to the team and the city. In more than two decades of partnership with Zalgiris, we have commemorated many important basketball moments, and this walkway is a living reflection of them,” says Petre Tintoi, CEO of McDonald’s in the Baltic States.
During the event, fans had the opportunity to talk to the players, listen to Butkevicius’ stories about his experiences playing for Zalgiris, ask questions and take photos with their favorite players. The celebration also symbolically marked the upcoming end of Zalgiris’ season.
McDonald’s Star Avenue has long been an important meeting point for basketball fans. The McDonald’s restaurant here also offers a close-up view of impressive trophies, jerseys signed by famous players and, already, the palm prints of 23 Zalgiris players.
