Jonas Valanciunas declined to shed light on his club situation this week, choosing instead to focus on national team duties as he joined Lithuania’s training camp in Druskininkai. The veteran center made it clear that his priority right now is representing his country in EuroBasket 2025.
“It’s always a pleasure to play for Lithuania, to come to camp, wear the national team jersey,” Valanciunas told reporters, as quoted by DELFI. He described playing for Lithuania as an honor and said summer has always belonged to the national team, regardless of what happens during the NBA season.
When pressed about his club career, the 33-year-old quickly steered the conversation back to national team matters. “Let’s talk about the national team, okay? Thank you,” he replied when asked about ongoing negotiations.
Valanciunas’ comments come after the trade to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for the Lithuanian big man.
Despite interest from Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, NBA insider Marc Stein expects the Lithuanian big man to be in Denver next season.
Panathinaikos’ owner recently stated publicly that Valanciunas wants to join the EuroLeague club, but Stein suggested those claims were not confirmed by the player or his U.S.-based representatives. Talks with the Greek team reportedly occurred without Denver’s knowledge.
Valanciunas averaged 8.7 points and 7.0 rebounds last season while splitting time between the Washington Wizards and Sacramento Kings. Denver reportedly views him as an experienced backup for Nikola Jokic as they look to strengthen their frontcourt depth.
With both Denver and Panathinaikos still in the picture, Valanciunas’ future remains a topic of significant interest. His decision to remain noncommittal in Druskininkai leaves the situation unresolved — at least publicly — for now.
