Jonas Valanciunas Expected to Join Panathinaikos Following NBA Trade

Jonas Valanciunas is set to join Panathinaikos in Greece, where he is expected to sign a lucrative three-year contract reportedly worth €12 million, making him one of the highest-paid players in Europe. The Lithuanian center, who has played 12 NBA seasons with an average of 13.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, is traveling to Athens to undergo medical examinations and finalize the deal. Panathinaikos, fresh off a strong EuroLeague season, aims to bolster its frontcourt with Valanciunas as a key player to challenge rival Olympiacos. Sarunas Jasikevicius, the reigning EuroLeague champion and a close acquaintance of Valanciunas, praised him both for his talent and character, highlighting the significance of the transfer beyond just basketball. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets, who are acquiring Valanciunas via trade with the Sacramento Kings, remain hopeful he will stay in the NBA, but the trade will proceed regardless of his decision. The move represents a choice for Valanciunas between a smaller NBA role or a starring position in Europe.