He Miami Heat has made one of the most commented selections of the NBA Draft 2025 When choosing in the Post 20 To the talented Lithuanian shipowner Kasparas jakucionisa 19 -year -old who comes from shining at the University of Illinois and is now emerging as The possible base of the future in South Beach.
The Florida franchise acquired this selection from the Golden State Warriors in the exchange that sent Jimmy Butler to the bay, and everything indicates that They have won the treatment. Jakucionis was projected as a top-12 pick, but unexpectedly fell until 20, where the Heat did not hesitate to ensure his talent.
Who is Kasparas Jakucionis?
Jakucionis, from 1.96 metersHe started in the 33 games he played with the Fighting Illini, where averaged 15 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists By game. Despite being “Rookie,” he led the team with maturity and efficiency, leaving a mark that earned him to be in the Ideal first -year team of the Big Ten and be named All-American first year.
The most striking: his ability to pass with both hands, his reading of the Pick-And-Roll game and his temper in the decisive times.
A theft of the draft that illustrates the Miami Heat
“We did not count on finding Jakucionis available in that position. What we highlight most of him is his ball handling, his reading and his mental hardness,” said Adam Simon, vice president of Operations of the Miami Heat.
Jakucionis He previously played at FC Barcelonawhere he competed in the ACB before making the leap to American university basketball. His European experience, combined with his born talent, makes him A high potential bet For Erik Spoelstra.
How will you fit in the Miami Heat?
The Heat needs to improve its perimeter defense and offensive organization, something in which Jakucionis can contribute from day one. Although it is not the most physically explosive, it compensates with intelligence, positional strength and control of the game rhythm.
In Miami, he will share costumes with players like Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jovic and Kel’el Wareamong others. If your development continues on the right track, It could become the orchestra director of the new Spoelstra project.
A brilliant future in South Beach
The Heat continues to bet on young talent, as he did with BAM Adebayo, Tyler Herro, Jaime Jáquez Jr. And now Jakucionis. In a draft dominated by names such as Cooper Flagg, Miami’s Pick 20 can end up being one of the Hidden Jewelry of the 2025 litter.
The franchise has not yet closed its final template, but everything indicates that Kasparas Jakucionis will have real minutes since its first seasonand if you answer, Miami could have secured his future in the base position for the coming years.
