Illinois point guard Kasparas Jakucionis, projected as a top-10 NBA pick, declared for the 2025 draft on Monday.
The 6-foot-6 Lithuanian averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists as a freshman for the Fighting Illini, but he told ESPN he’s ready for the next level.
“I’ve waited for this moment a long time,” Jakucionis said. “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.”
As of Monday morning, Illinois coach Brad Underwood was still waiting for a decision from Canadian freshman forward Will Riley. The 19-year-old finished the season strong and is projected as a top-20 pick if he opts to enter the June 25-26 draft, according to ESPN.
Jakucionis shot 31.8 percent from 3-point range in 33 starts and because of his size is viewed as a combo guard.
On the negative side of the scouting report will be his 3.6 turnovers per game, which was worst in the Big Ten.
Jakucionis shot 84.5 percent from the free throw line.
Illinois last produced a draft lottery selection in 2012, when the Portland Trail Blazers selected Meyers Leonard at No. 11.
–Field Level Media
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson won the Jerry West Trophy as the 2024-25 NBA Clutch Player of the Year on Wednesday. Brunson, 28, received 70 of 100 first-place votes…
The New York Knicks will need more offensive support for Jalen Brunson if they hope to regain home-court advantage when they visit the Detroit Pistons on Thursday for Game 3…
Star guard Flau’jae Johnson announced Wednesday that she is continuing her college basketball career at LSU. “Yes, I’m coming back to LSU,” Johnson told Front Office Sports. Digging a little…
Knicks need more than Jalen Brunson (i.e. KAT) to battle Pistons
Flau’jae Johnson: “Yes, I’m coming back to LSU”
New Kings GM mulling whether to retain Doug Christie
Jimmer Fredette announces basketball retirement at 36