Jonas Valanciunas Drops 5-Word Reaction to EuroLeague Rumors, Confirms Denver Nuggets Commitment for 2025-26?

Time of India

22-07-2025

Jonas Valanciunas (Image Source - Getty Images)
Jonas Valanciunas
has officially confirmed that he will stay with the
Denver Nuggets
for the 2025-26 NBA season, putting an end to growing speculation about a possible return to European basketball.
The 6-foot-11 Lithuanian center turned down a lucrative three-year offer worth nearly €12 million (around $36 million) from Greek EuroLeague giants Panathinaikos, choosing instead to honor his current NBA contract.
In a statement to BasketNews.com, Valanciunas addressed the situation directly: 'I want to clear the air about my playing situation next season now that Denver has made their decision to keep me. The idea of playing for Panathinaikos, closer to home, was very exciting to me, but that will have to wait.
I am fully committed to honoring my contract with the Denver Nuggets this season and will give it my all to compete for a championship.
'
Jonas Valanciunas' Trade Background and Contract Details
Sacramento Kings center Jonas Valanciunas (17) works the ball inside as Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) defends during the second half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, March 5, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)
Jonas Valanciunas
was acquired by the Denver Nuggets in a July 2025 trade with the Sacramento Kings that sent Dario Šarić to California. The move was made to add veteran size and toughness next to MVP Nikola Jokić in the frontcourt. According to Nuggets executive VP of basketball operations Ben Tenzer, discussions with Valanciunas and his representatives were smooth, and there were 'no concerns' about him showing up for training camp.
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The 33-year-old is entering the final guaranteed year of his contract, worth $10.4 million. There is also a non-guaranteed $10 million team option for the 2026-27 season. With Denver ruling out any potential buyout, the only route for an early exit would have been a holdout—something Valanciunas has decisively shut down.
Jonas Valanciunas' Expected Role with the Denver Nuggets
Jonas Valanciunas is coming off a solid season split between the Washington Wizards and
Sacramento Kings
, averaging 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2 assists per game across 81 appearances.
He also shot 55% from the field and nearly 88% from the free-throw line. Denver plans to use him primarily as a reliable backup to Jokić, who logged a career-high 36.7 minutes per game last season. His presence is expected to solidify the second unit and reduce the MVP's workload.
This move finalizes an active offseason for Denver's front office, which also added Cameron Johnson, brought back Bruce Brown, and signed veteran scorer Tim Hardaway Jr.
The front office, led by Tenzer and GM Jonathan Wallace, is clearly focused on building a deeper roster after last season's narrow playoff exit.
NBA Over EuroLeague—for Now
Jonas Valanciunas is also preparing to represent Lithuania at the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket, which Denver officials may use as an opportunity to monitor his form and conditioning. Though the temptation of playing closer to home in the EuroLeague was strong, the veteran center remains locked in on competing at the NBA level.
In reaffirming his commitment, Valanciunas has provided clarity not only for Denver's front office and fans but also for the EuroLeague market. His decision highlights a dedication to honoring his current NBA obligations while keeping the door open for a potential European return down the line.
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For now, Jonas' focus is clear and that is to help the Denver Nuggets contend for another title.
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