semifinals, the problems became clear when in the first match at Siemens Arena, Rytas lost to Neptūnas 83–71. After a 70–68 loss in Klaipėda, Rytas was down 0–2, though managed to win the next two games 66–64 and 74–73, setting a deciding fifth game at the Siemens Arena. Rytas lost 73–72 and lost the series 3–2, the worst fiasco in club history. This was also the first time Rytas was eliminated in the LKL by another team, instead of Žalgiris Kaunas. The disappointing season ended with the team winning the LKL bronze medal series 3–0 versus the Juventus Utena. 2016–17: Departure of the old management The new season began with a contract extension for Artūras Jomantas and Artūras Gudaitis, who decided to remain with the club. Following this, Rytas signed David Logan, who had been a EuroLeague star under coach Tomas Pačėsas. On 23 July, the front line was strengthened by the athletic Kenny Kadji. On 27 July, Adam Łapeta signed a new two-year contract. During the summer, team captain Kavaliauskas reportedly had a dispute with the team management concerning his pay. Soon it was announced that Kavaliauskas would probably not return for the next season, leading to him deleting the infamous "Loyalty.." message he wrote about Lietuvos rytas the previous summer. In August, in a move that shocked fans of both teams, Kavaliauskas left the team and signed with Žalgiris Kaunas. On 30 August, Drew Gordon was signed. On 1 October, Rashaun Broadus signed a trial deal. On 2 October, Kadji was released after failing to adapt to the team after playing just three games. On 22 November, one of the Nigerian national team leaders Josh Akognon was signed as primary point guard. On 9 December, Broadus was fired. On 28 December, Clevin Hannah joined the team, along with Laimonas Kisielius. On 21 January, Akognon left the team. Lietuvos rytas qualified for the EuroCup Top 16 phase with a 3–5 record, in large part due to the efforts of Drew Gordon, David Logan and Artūras Gudaitis. Many troubles began before the start of the top 16, as Gudaitis and Gailius suffered injuries. Rytas lost a very close game to Hapoel Jerusalem at the start in Vilnius, losing 80–76 in a game Rytas led by as much as 20 points. The fans and coaching staff blamed the referees for the loss after the game. In the second round, Rytas lost