The Žalgiris logo symbolizes a rich history and sporting victories, becoming the pride of Lithuanian basketball. It reflects the team’s strength, unity, and spirit that has given world legends such as Arvydas Sabonis and Šarūnas Jasikevičius.
Žalgiris: Brand overview
BC Zalgiris, a renowned basketball institution, traces its history back to 1944 in Kaunas, Lithuania. From 1945-1947, the team was called ASK, then SKIF until 1949, and in 1950 it was named Žalgiris. The team achieved significant success at the beginning, becoming the champion of the USSR Supreme Basketball League in 1947 and 1951. Along with these achievements, the team became the Lithuanian champion several times. Such well-known personalities in the basketball world as Arvydas Sabonis, Modestas Paulauskas, and Šarūnas Jasikevičius proudly represented Zalgiris, raising its status in the sport.
In the 1980s, Zalgiris reached a new level with three consecutive victories in the National League of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1987. These victories were gratifying because they were won in decisive matches against such formidable opponents as CSKA Moscow. With the declaration of Lithuanian independence in 1990, Zalgiris did not lose their momentum. They continued their dominance in the Lithuanian Basketball League (LBL), winning 24 Lithuanian league titles. Their competence was not limited to local leagues: in 1999, after winning the Euroleague, they attracted international attention.
Since the 2011-2012 season, the team’s home court has been Zalgiris Arena, which opened right before EuroBasket 2011. Consistent achievements over the years have strengthened BC Zalgiris’s position as a beacon in Lithuanian basketball, leaving an indelible mark both domestically and internationally.
Meaning and History
1944 – 1969
1969 – 1998
1998 – 2005
2005 – 2023
2023 – today
The Žalgiris logo is designed as a shield, conveying the strength and resilience characteristic of sports battles. This shape evokes associations with protection and competition, emphasizing the team’s spirit. The shield is divided into segments, each adding dynamics and meaning to the composition.
The lines on the shield’s background mimic the curves of a basketball. Their soft asymmetry creates a sense of motion, capturing the game’s energy in a frozen image. The central segment, rendered in orange, references basketball as the team’s heart. Its brightness contrasts with the side sections, painted green and white. Green connects the club to its roots and symbolizes tradition, while white adds visual clarity and lightness.
At the bottom of the shield, in its narrow section, the club’s founding year is displayed. This element adds historical depth, serving as a reminder of the club’s rich heritage. The upper part of the emblem is reserved for the team’s name. The letters “Žalgiris” stand out in a strict, elongated font, adding weight and confidence. The distinctive shape of the first letter “Ž” highlights it as a prominent accent and a mark of identity.
A green frame outlines the shield, unifying all elements into a harmonious whole. A black inner line enhances the contrast and adds depth, making the logo visually impactful. This creates a sense of integrity and stability, emphasizing the team’s reliability.
The emblem balances respect for history and a drive for modernity. It merges the spirit of the game, the club’s symbolism, and a clear visual style. It embodies energy, tradition, and a confident outlook toward the future.