T&C 21+
Jonas Valanciunas was born on May 6, 1992, in Utena, Lithuania. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches and weighing 265 pounds, Valanciunas began his professional basketball journey in his native Lithuania before making the leap to the NBA. He was selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors. Valanciunas quickly established himself as a force in the paint, showcasing his skills developed during his early career in Europe.
Valanciunas is known for his strong presence in the low post, utilizing his size and strength to dominate the boards and score efficiently around the basket. He's a traditional center with a knack for rebounding, averaging 10.4 rebounds per game over his career. His ability to set solid screens and finish plays makes him a valuable asset in pick-and-roll situations. While primarily a post player, Valanciunas has expanded his range, adding a reliable mid-range shot to his arsenal.
Throughout his NBA career, Valanciunas has been a consistent performer, contributing to his teams' successes. Notably, he played a key role in the Toronto Raptors' playoff runs before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2019. With the Grizzlies, Valanciunas continued to excel, recording career-highs in points and rebounds. His impact on the court has been recognized with selections to the Lithuanian national team, where he's helped secure multiple medals in international competitions.
Affiliate Disclosure: Lines may receive advertising commissions for visits to a sportsbook or betting site.
