Jonas Valaninas
Key Career Moment of Jonas Valaninas
Jonas Valaninas had a defining moment in the 2019 NBA playoffs with the Toronto Raptors. Facing the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of the first round, he dominated with 23 points and 15 rebounds, setting the tone for Toronto's eventual championship run.
Though he was traded mid-season, his contributions were pivotal in shaping the Raptors' identity as a physical, defensive-minded team.
Jonas Valančiūnas (/ ˈjoʊnəs / / ˌvælənˈtʃunəs / YOH-nəss VAL-ən-CHOO-nəs; Lithuanian pronunciation: [ˈjoːnɐs vɐɫɐnʲˈtɕûːnɐs]; born 6 May ) is a Lithuanian professional .
He's a warrior in the paint, former teammate Kyle Lowry said of Valaninas.This performance solidified his reputation as one of the NBA's most reliable big men.
Unique Skill of Jonas Valaninas
Jonas Valaninas possesses an old-school, back-to-the-basket post game rarely seen in today's NBA.
His footwork, soft touch around the rim, and ability to finish through contact make him a consistent scoring threat. Unlike many modern centers, he thrives in half-court sets, using his 6'11, 265-pound frame to overpower defenders.
Jonas Valaninas's Stats
- 12+ NBA seasons, averaging 13.4 points and 9.5 rebounds per game
- Career 55.5% field goal percentage
- Led Lithuania to multiple EuroBasket medals
Jonas Valaninas's Legacy in the NBA
Jonas Valaninas has carved out a lasting NBA career as a throwback center who adapts without sacrificing his strengths.
From his early days in Toronto to his current role with the New Orleans Pelicans, he's been a model of consistency. A unique fact: Valaninas once scored 34 points and grabbed 20 rebounds in a single game as a teenager in Lithuania, foreshadowing his NBA success. His legacy extends beyond stats-he's a mentor to young European players and proof that traditional big men still have a place in modern basketball.
View the profile of Sacramento Kings Center Jonas Valanciunas on ESPN. Get the latest news, live stats and game highlights.