Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas was busted for driving under the influence early Monday morning. The team and its young center both released statements regarding the incident. The Toronto Sun has the details:
The charge came at about 2:30 a.m. Monday morning after Valanciunas allegedly went through a drive-thru with open beer bottles in his car. The information was forwarded to police who subsequently tracked down the vehicle and, after a short investigation, charged Valanciunas with “exceeding 80 mgs.”
The Lithuania-born big man is to appear in court in nearby Collingwood on April 22.
The Raptors will begin their first round NBA playoff series on either April 19 or 20.
The Raptors released the following statement on Monday evening.
“We were made aware (Monday) morning of the incident involving Jonas Valanciunas and are disappointed he has put himself in this situation. We take this matter very seriously as we have the highest expectations for all members of our organization.
“At this time we are continuing to gather information and we will comment further when appropriate.”
“I hold myself to a high standard and take my role as a member of the Toronto Raptors very seriously,” Valanciunas said in a statement released by the team. “I apologize to the organization, my teammates, my family and my fans, and regret any negativity this incident has brought upon them.”
