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Jonas Valančiūnas leaves NBA for Žalgiris Kaunas contract

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 17, 2026, 5:08 AM

Last updated Jul 17, 2026

Jonas Valančiūnas leaves NBA for Žalgiris Kaunas contract

Summary

Jonas Valančiūnas has signed a two-year contract with Žalgiris Kaunas, ending his 14-year NBA career. The former Knicks target explained that returning home to Lithuania was a primary factor in his decision, despite the Knicks' longstanding interest. He will have a significant role in Europe, looking forward to experiencing the passionate support of Žalgiris fans and the atmosphere in EuroLeague basketball. Valančiūnas averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists last season while playing for the Denver Nuggets. This move concludes the Knicks' pursuit of the center after exploring options to strengthen their frontcourt over the past few seasons.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Valančiūnas signs two-year deal with Žalgiris Kaunas.
•He leaves behind a 14-year NBA career with multiple teams.
•The Knicks showed interest in him as a frontcourt addition.
•Valančiūnas cited meaningful connection to Lithuania as a key factor.
•He averaged 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds last season.

Latest Updates

5:08 AMYahoo Sports — Knicks Learn Real Reason Jonas Valančiūnas Left NBA

What they're saying

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Former Knicks target Jonas Valančiūnas explained why he chose to leave the NBA for Žalgiris Kaunas instead of ring chasing in New York. The post Knicks Learn Real Reason Jonas Valančiūnas Left NBA appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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