Panathinaikos officials remain optimistic about signing Jonas Valanciunas, saying they expect the Lithuanian center to arrive in Greece in about 10 days, according to a report from Gazzetta.gr.
Team representatives told the outlet that preparations are already underway for an official reception at Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, complete with thousands of fans to welcome one of the most significant transfers in club and EuroLeague history.
“In about 10 days we will be here again,” Panathinaikos officials said, signaling their confidence despite ongoing NBA developments surrounding the veteran big man.
Valanciunas, 33, is currently the subject of a pending NBA trade between the Sacramento Kings and the Denver Nuggets. Denver is set to acquire him in exchange for Dario Saric, a deal expected to be finalized Sunday.
The trade gives the Nuggets control over Valanciunas’ NBA future, with the franchise reportedly interested in keeping him as Nikola Jokic’s backup. That decision could prevent the Lithuanian star from immediately signing with Panathinaikos.
Earlier this weekend, Valanciunas met with Panathinaikos executives in Greece to discuss a proposed three-year deal worth nearly €12 million. The offer positions him as a cornerstone in Panathinaikos’ effort to reclaim the EuroLeague crown from rival Olympiacos.
Panathinaikos finished third in the EuroLeague regular season and views Valanciunas’ rebounding and interior scoring as key to strengthening its frontcourt for a championship run.
The veteran center played 12 NBA seasons, averaging 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. Last year he split time between the Washington Wizards and the Kings, posting 8.7 points and 7.0 rebounds in a reserve role.
While Denver values him as an experienced contributor off the bench, Panathinaikos hopes to entice him with a starring role in Europe and the chance to lead one of the continent’s most storied clubs.
Once the trade between Denver and Sacramento is complete, Valanciunas is expected to decide whether to remain in the NBA or pursue the opportunity in Athens. Panathinaikos remains confident that the situation will resolve in their favor soon.
