Valančiūnas Eyes Euroleague Future After istanbul Experience
Published: October 26, 2023
Jonas valančiūnas, the veteran NBA center, has expressed a strong desire to play in the Euroleague in the near future. His comments came after attending the Euroleague final battles and the Istanbul Fenerbahce championship in Istanbul.
An electrifying Atmosphere
Valančiūnas, currently with the Sacramento Kings, was visibly impressed by the Euroleague atmosphere. Great experience, amazing atmosphere, amazing basketball, and the finale was more than the final. I really liked it,
he told Sport24, highlighting the intensity and excitement of the tournament.
Did You Know?
the Euroleague is considered the highest level of European professional club basketball, featuring top teams from across the continent.
Support for Jasikevičius
The Lithuanian center also revealed his support for Šarūnas Jasikevičius,the coach of Fenerbahce. Valančiūnas and Jasikevičius share a history, having played together on both the Lithuanian national team and for Vilnius Rytas. He stated:
I supported Šarūnas. I think he deserved it fully. He has a passion, has dedication, and finally he succeeded.
Jonas Valančiūnas
Euroleague aspirations
Valančiūnas didn’t shy away from expressing his ambition to compete in the Euroleague himself. When asked about the possibility of this happening soon,the 33-year-old responded:
Yes. Maybe maybe. For such an atmosphere.
Jonas Valančiūnas
Key Stats
- Jonas Valančiūnas averaged 10.4 points and 7.7 rebounds in the last NBA season.
- He currently has a contract in the NBA worth $10 million per season.
Future Team?
Speculation naturally arose about whether Valančiūnas might join a team coached by Jasikevičius or another Euroleague contender. However, Valančiūnas remained coy, stating with a laugh, I want to play basketball. It is too early to speak.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on Euroleague team rosters during the NBA offseason. Many players explore opportunities in Europe, and vice versa.
