Jonas Valančiūnas has made a lighthearted pledge to shave his head and signature beard if Zalgiris Kaunas wins the EuroLeague championship this season, according to comments made on the Lithuanian television show Stonkus Tiesiogiai.
Jonas Valančiūnas Makes EuroLeague Title Pledge
During his appearance on Stonkus Tiesiogiai, the veteran center committed to a dramatic grooming change should Zalgiris capture the continental crown. The wager echoes a similar promise made by Italian guard Luigi Datome in 2017, when his Fenerbahçe teammates famously cut off his hair and headband after winning the final, according to reports of the broadcast.
Valančiūnas carries an extensive resume into the discussion, having played 1,002 regular-season games in the NBA with career averages of 12.8 points and 9.0 rebounds. During the most recent NBA season with the Denver Nuggets, he served primarily as a backup to Nikola Jokić, appearing in 65 games and averaging 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds.
Zalgiris Roster Rebuild and EuroLeague Outlook
Zalgiris enters the EuroLeague campaign following notable roster adjustments over the summer. According to club movement reports, the Lithuanian side parted ways with guards Sylvain Francisco, who joined Panathinaikos, and Moses Wright, who transferred to Milan.
Despite those departures, Zalgiris retained key contributors Nigel Williams-Goss, Maodo Lo, and Azuolas Tubelis. The club also added several reinforcements alongside Valančiūnas, including Carsen Edwards, Sterling Brown, Marius Grigonis, Saben Lee, Marek Blaževič, and Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jonas Valančiūnas make the shaving pledge?
Valančiūnas made the promise during an appearance on the Lithuanian television program Stonkus Tiesiogiai.
Which NBA team did Valančiūnas play for most recently?
He played for the Denver Nuggets, appearing in 65 games as a backup to Nikola Jokić.
Which players left Zalgiris over the summer?
Zalgiris lost Sylvain Francisco to Panathinaikos and Moses Wright to Milan during the offseason transfer window.
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