Jonas Valanciunas

along with 22 rebounds, and 5 blocks in a 133–129 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers.[59] On 19 April, he set a new career-high of 34 points, 23 rebounds and posted a career high of 6 blocks in a 139–137 double-overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets, this was the second time he posted at least 30 points, 20 rebounds and 5 blocks in a game.[60]

On 26 July 2021, Valančiūnas was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in a multi-player deal that also included the Memphis Grizzlies trading their 17th and 51st pick of the 2021 NBA draft for Steven Adams, Eric Bledsoe, the 10th and 40th pick of the 2021 NBA draft, and a protected 2022 first-round pick from the Los Angeles Lakers.[61]

His career with the Lithuanian national team has also been illustrious. As a member since age 19, he has won two EuroBasket silver medals in 2013 and 2015, earning All-Tournament honours in the latter. Notable as well, Valančiūnas was featured in the sports documentary, The Other Dream Team.

Valančiūnas spent a significant period playing for various Lithuanian teams. His professional career began with Perlas in 2008 where he played until 2010 when he moved to Lietuvos Rytas. During his tenure at both teams, Valančiūnas enjoyed both national and personal success. He has played in the LKL Finals three times, in 2010, 2011 and 2012. While playing there, Valančiūnas and Lietuvos Rytas won the 2010 series against Žalgiris 4–3, but lost to the same team the following year 1–4 and 0-3 in 2012. Throughout 2010-2012, he participated in three LKL All-Star Games, and he was named MVP several times. In 2012, he won the EuroCup Rising Star award and was named in the All-EuroCup squad, averaging 10.8 ppg, 7.6 rpg, and 1.6 bpg while shooting 63.4% from the field.

Valančiūnas’ journey to the NBA started in 2011 when he was considered a top prospect at the NBA draft, held on 23 June 2011. Here, he was picked fifth overall by the Toronto Raptors. He eventually signed with the Raptors on 18 July 2012 and made his NBA debut on 31 October 2012. His consistent performances resulted in him being named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for games played in March 2013. He was also chased the honor of the FIBA European Young Player of the Year for two consecutive years, February 2012 and February 2013.

Valančiūnas was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies at the 2019 trade deadline, but continued delivering outstanding performances, setting personal and franchise records. His time with the Grizzlies came to an end in 2021, when he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. As he begins another chapter in his professional basketball career, the Lithuanian star continues to add to his impressive achievements. Despite his many successes, Valančiūnas remains humble, a relentless competitor, and a committed team player.