Projected top 10 pick Kasparas Jakucionis has declared for the 2025 NBA draft. The Illinois freshman is one of the top international prospects in the world and averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists while shooting 44.0% from the field and 31.8% from three for Illinois. His impressive performances earned him a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman Team and All-Big Ten Second Team.
‘Saying Goodbye to Illinois Is Hard’
Jakucionis committed to Illinois in May last year after a stint with FC Barcelona in Spain. The 6-foot-6 guard delivered one of the best freshman seasons in Illinois program history, setting the Illinois freshman record for 20+ point games (10) and averaging the fourth most points (15.0) by an Illini freshman.
The 18-year-old also averaged the fourth-most assists (4.7) by an Illini freshman and the seventh-most rebounds by an Illini freshman (5.7).
“This has been my dream from a young age,” Jakucionis stated on Monday. “I’ve waited for this moment a long time. Saying goodbye to Illinois will be the hardest part. I’ve made friendships and built real relationships with players, coaches, support staff, and everyone around Champaign. My goal now is to work as hard as I can, and be the best version of myself.”
“It went by so fast,” the Lithuania native added. “There were a lot of ups and downs with a young team, where almost no one had played in the NCAA tournament before. Coach [Brad] Underwood and my teammates trusted me. We built a great relationship, chemistry and bond. The connections I made will stay with me for a long time.”
Jakucionis Tipped for Greatness
When the season started, Jakucionis was one of the standout players, and he quickly attracted the attention of NBA scouts.
The 18-year-old made his debut in the ACB at the age of 16 for Euroleague giants Barcelona, making him one of the youngest players to play for Barcelona. Jakucionis has also represented his home country at both the U16 and U18 Eurobaskets in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
The youngster is now expected to feature in the NBA draft combine, which takes place from May 11-18, and the draft from June 25-26. The 18-year-old has been tipped by many to make waves in the NBA and is currently ESPN’s No. 9 ranked project.
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