Jean Montero departs Valencia Basket after paying buyout clause

Dominican basketball player Jean Montero has officially parted ways with Valencia Basket, having paid the buyout clause in his contract which was set to run until 2028. The club announced the departure on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

Montero joined Valencia Basket in the summer of 2024 from Morabanc Andorra. During his tenure, he participated in 131 official matches, contributing to the team's success in winning the Supercopa Endesa and the ACB League title in the most recent season. His individual accolades include being named the best player of the ACB finals and earning a spot in the domestic league's Best Quintet. He also received the best young player award in the EuroLeague, making the tournament's best quintet.

Montero bid farewell to the club and its fans on June 25 during the league title celebration. "Although sometimes paths have to separate, Valencia will always be in my heart," he stated. The club, which had extended his contract through 2028 last year, expressed gratitude for his "professionalism, commitment, and work" during his time with the team.

Montero's departure follows that of other key figures from the successful Valencia squad. Head coach Pedro Martínez is set to coach Real Madrid next season, while Spanish players Jaime Pradilla and Sergio de Larrea have also moved on, with De Larrea being drafted by the NBA's Dallas Mavericks.

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Although sometimes paths have to separate, Valencia will always be in my heart.