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Jonas Valančiūnas, often nicknamed “JV”, is a prominent Lithuanian professional basketball player currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing at 6’11” (2.11 meters) and weighing around 265 pounds (120 kg), Valančiūnas is a force to be reckoned with in the paint, known for his rebounding prowess, interior scoring, and physicality.

Born in Utena, Lithuania, in 1992, Valančiūnas displayed exceptional basketball talent from a young age. He began his professional career with Perlas Vilnius in the Lithuanian League, showcasing his dominance early on. His performances quickly attracted the attention of European scouts, and he soon became a highly touted prospect.

Valančiūnas was drafted 5th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2011 NBA draft. However, he remained in Europe for another season, playing with Lietuvos Rytas, before officially joining the Raptors in the 2012-2013 season. He quickly established himself as a valuable contributor to the team, providing a consistent presence in the low post and developing a strong pick-and-roll partnership with players like Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan.

During his tenure with the Raptors, Valančiūnas proved to be a reliable scorer and rebounder. He consistently averaged double-digit points and rebounds, becoming a fan favorite in Toronto. While he wasn’t necessarily a flashy player, his fundamental skills and work ethic made him an essential part of the Raptors’ success during that period. He contributed to several playoff runs, helping the Raptors reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2016.

In 2019, Valančiūnas was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of a package for Marc Gasol. This marked a new chapter in his NBA career. He continued to excel in Memphis, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s premier rebounders. His time with the Grizzlies allowed him to further develop his offensive game and demonstrate his ability to score in various ways around the basket.

After a brief stint with the Grizzlies, Valančiūnas was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2021. In New Orleans, he has continued to be a key player, providing a strong interior presence and contributing significantly to both scoring and rebounding. His veteran leadership and experience have also been valuable assets to the young Pelicans team.

Beyond his NBA career, Valančiūnas has been a mainstay of the Lithuanian national basketball team for many years. He has represented his country in numerous international competitions, including the Olympics and the EuroBasket championships. He is considered a national hero in Lithuania, admired for his dedication and contributions to Lithuanian basketball.

Jonas Valančiūnas’s career is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a commitment to improving his game. He is a respected player both on and off the court, and his impact on the NBA and Lithuanian basketball is undeniable. He continues to be a force in the league, providing a valuable presence and contributing to the success of the New Orleans Pelicans.