Lithuania’s national basketball team will face a significant challenge in the upcoming 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifier Tournament in Puerto Rico, as their star player, Jonas Valanciunas, will be absent due to his NBA free agent status.
The announcement came during a press conference in Palanga, Lithuania. Jonas Valanciunas will not participate in the qualifiers as he navigates his NBA free agency period.
“Jonas Valanciunas is eager to play for the national team, and there are no issues with insurance,” stated Mindaugas Balciunas, Secretary General of the Lithuanian Basketball Federation, during the press conference covered by Basketnews. “However, the stipulation that Jonas must be healthy at the beginning of July to sign a new contract is something we cannot guarantee. For 18 years, Jonas has represented Lithuania with dedication.”
Balciunas emphasized that the team must adapt to this situation.
“Unless there’s a drastic change, Lithuania will have to understand Jonas’s position. He will still support the team, our objectives remain intact, and we have a strong squad capable of achieving our goals. We will head to Puerto Rico with one goal in mind. After that, Jonas will join us fully,” he added.
Valanciunas’s situation is influenced by NBA free agency rules, which prevent his camp from negotiating until June 30, with a contract signing window starting on July 6.
The New Orleans Pelicans center expressed his disappointment at the press conference. “It’s unfortunate. This is the first time I can’t play. I’ll be there in spirit, offering advice and training with the team, and I believe we will prepare well for the Olympics. I hope Lithuania understands. In Paris, we will achieve our goals,” Valanciunas said.
Discussing his future, Valanciunas mentioned, “I’ve done my part during the season, now it’s up to the agents to handle negotiations. I won’t comment on specifics, but it’s ongoing. By July, everything will be clear.”
In the 2023-24 NBA season, Valanciunas averaged 12.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, highlighting his significant contribution to the Pelicans.
