NBA or EuroLeague? Rimas Kurtinaitis Backs Jonas Valančiūnas’ Return to Europe!
Lithuanian basketball coach Rimas Kurtinaitis has openly supported his compatriot, center Jonas Valančiūnas, in his decision to leave the NBA and return to Europe, specifically to Panathinaikos. Is this the end of the American dream or the start of a new European adventure? Kurtinaitis says — if he were in his shoes, he would do the same!
NBA is not the only option
Valančiūnas, who currently has a contract with the Denver Nuggets, is ready to terminate the agreement and sign a three-year contract with the Athens-based Panathinaikos. Kurtinaitis points out that the EuroLeague is very interesting and that returning to Europe is a great opportunity for a player who has spent a lot of time in the NBA.
“I would do the same if I were in his place. He has a one-year contract in the NBA, but if needed, he can stay. The offer from Panathinaikos is not bad, the EuroLeague is very interesting. Personally, I am intrigued to see how he will adapt to the EuroLeague after so much time in the NBA,” said Kurtinaitis.
Panathinaikos as a great organization
The Lithuanian coach praised Panathinaikos as a great organization and believes Valančiūnas will face different challenges in the EuroLeague but also have the opportunity to showcase his quality.
“Against some centers, he will have an easier job, against others, a tougher one, but Panathinaikos is a great organization. If they see what he can offer, they will know how to use him,” added Kurtinaitis.
EuroBasket and the future of the Lithuanian national team
Kurtinaitis also spoke about Domantas Sabonis and his absence from the upcoming EuroBasket, emphasizing that family comes first and that the national team has a great group of players who will grow together.
“EuroBasket is important, but not as much as the Olympic Games. We have time and a great group of guys. We will play the best we can,” the coach said.
What does this mean for European basketball?
The return of players like Valančiūnas to Europe could signal that the EuroLeague and European basketball are becoming attractive destinations again for top players. While the NBA remains the pinnacle of a basketball career, the EuroLeague offers a different challenge and a chance to shine in the European context.
Conclusion
Will Valančiūnas manage to make an impact at Panathinaikos and in the EuroLeague? Will his return start a trend of European players coming back from the NBA? One thing is certain — the Lithuanian center has the support of his coach and many basketball fans. What do you think? Is the EuroLeague the right destination for NBA stars seeking a new challenge? Drop a comment, maybe you have the best answer!
Facts in numbers:
- Valančiūnas is ready to sign a three-year contract with Panathinaikos.
- He still has one year left on his NBA contract with the Denver Nuggets.
- The EuroLeague is a different challenge with various playing styles and opponents.
Stay tuned for the latest basketball news and watch how this story unfolds!
