Jonas Valanciunas is an esteemed Lithuanian professional basketball player who plays for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. Originating from the picturesque town of Utena, Lithuania, Valanciunas first played basketball professionally in his homeland from 2008 to 2011.
Valanciunas was somewhat of a basketball prodigy as he was named the FIBA Young Player of the Year twice in 2011 and 2012 in the Lithuanian national basketball league, earning three selections to the LKL All-Star team and landing a spot on the All-EuroCup First Team in 2012.
Drafted as the fifth overall pick by the Toronto Raptors in 2011, Valanciunas made an immediate impact with his NBA-ready physique and strong mentality.
His fundamentally solid approach to the game has been consistent throughout his career. With NBA career averages of 13.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game, Valanciunas highlights his consistent contributions on the court.
Beyond the NBA, Valanciunas proudly represents his native Lithuania on the international stage in FIBA competitions. Valanciunas' dedication was on full display in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he played a pivotal role for Lithuania, helping lead the team to a commendable 6th-place finish. His standout performances, including an outstanding upset victory against the USA, earned him recognition as one of the tournament's top players, landing him a spot on the All-FIBA World Cup Second Team.
Jonas Valanciunas Trade
On August 7, 2021, a significant trade shook up the NBA landscape as the New Orleans Pelicans, Memphis Grizzlies, and Charlotte Hornets engaged in a multi-team trade.
The Memphis Grizzlies traded away Trey Murphy III and Brandon Boston Jr to the New Orleans Pelicans while also sending Tyler Harvey to Charlotte Hornets. In return, Grizzlies acquired Steven Adams, Eric Bledsoe, a 2022 1st round pick, Ziaire Williams, and Jared Butler from the Pelicans. Additionally, New Orleans sent Wesley Iwundu, a 2022-first round pick, and cash to the Hornets.
This trade was a strategic move by all teams involved to strengthen their rosters and pursue their respective goals for the upcoming season.
Jonas Valanciunas Salary
Jonas Valanciunas will earn $15,435,000 for the 2023/2024 season, according to Spotrac. It is the last season in his contract.
FAQ's on Jonas Valanciunas trade
A. On August 7, 2021, Jonas Valanciunas was traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the New Orleans Pelicans in a three team trade that included Steven Adams joining Memphis.
A. Jonas Valanciunas was born in Utena, Lithuania.
A. Jonas Valanciunas is 31 years old. He was born on May 6, 1992.
A. Jonas Valanciunas plays as the center for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA.
A. Jonas Valanciunas has a two-year $30,135,000 contract with the New Orleans Pelicans. Valanciunas Will be an unrestricted free agent in the upcoming 2024 offseason.
A. In the 2023/24 season, Jonas Valanciunas is averaging 13.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, 1.1 steals per game, as of March 2024.
