Valencia Leader Named EuroLeague Playoffs MVP

  • May 16, 2026 | 16:52
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Valencia's Jean Montero was the standout player of the EuroLeague playoffs in 2026, leading his team to an unprecedented comeback after eliminating Panathinaikos from a 0-2 deficit. This achievement not only brought Valencia to its first-ever Final Four but also earned Montero the title of EuroLeague Playoffs MVP. The 22-year-old Dominican point guard had an exceptional season, previously earning the Rising Star trophy and a spot in the EuroLeague First Team. Now, he has added the Playoffs MVP award to his impressive collection.

Montero's stats tell only part of the story. He led all players in efficiency (26.8) and was second in scoring (18.6 points), second in steals (1.4), and third in assists (5.8). Additionally, he shot 73.1% for two-pointers, 42.3% from three-point range, and 81.5% from the free-throw line. His 21.5% of Valencia's total points in the series was complemented by his 5.8 assists per game, clearly demonstrating his influence extended beyond his own shooting.

Speaking to Deyn Arlaucas in the EuroLeague & Friends: MVP Talk podcast, Montero said, "We need to keep the same mentality: we have nothing to lose. Reaching the Final Four – not many teams can do that."

"Just go there, enjoy the atmosphere, enjoy everything, and especially compete," added Montero. "If we compete and have fun, knowing we have nothing to lose, I think we can win every game."

Even after the home loss, Montero showed his qualities at the start of the series. He recorded 15 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in a narrow 67-68 loss in Game 1, followed by 21 points, 6 assists, and 1 steal in a 105-107 overtime defeat in Game 2. Facing elimination on the road in Game 3, he responded with 16 points, 9 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals to lead Valencia to a 91-87 victory, keeping their hopes alive.

"After that loss in Game 2, honestly, everyone was so positive," Montero said. "Because when you lose 0-2 heading to Athens, and the Panathinaikos fans are chanting, it's not easy to win there. But in the locker room, people kept saying, 'Yeah, we can do it.'"