The NBA Draft is right around the corner and Sportsvival is here to go over the top prospects who will hear their names called.
Today we scout:
PG- Kasparas Jakučionis
Illinois
6’5” 205 lbs.
Kasparas Jakučionis was born on May 29, 2006 in Vilnius, Lithuania.
In 2021, Jakučionis joined the youth ranks of FC Barcelona. In the 2022-2023 season, Jakučionis alternated between Barcelona’s junior team and the club’s reserve team in the Liga EBA.
Jakučionis was selected to the 2023-2024 U-18 Euroleague All-Tournament Team. During the season he would also make his professional debut for the FC Barcelona first team in April 2023. He became the third youngest player to play for the Catalans in the Liga ACB.
In May of 2024, Jakučionis committed to play college basketball for Illinois under Brad Underwood.
FC Barcelona retains his rights upon a possible return to Europe in the future.
In his freshman season at Illinois, Jakučionis played 33 games and averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists for the Fighting Illini.
He was named to the Big Ten Third Team and the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.
After the season, Jakučionis declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, and received an invite to the green room.
What does the tape say?
Positives
Smooth point guard who can facilitate an offense
Excellent vision…sees the whole court…very creative
Versatility….has played well at both guard positions
Strong defensively…uses his length to disrupt lanes and shots
Has played and been successful against professionals as a 17-year-old
Solid shooter off the catch
Negatives
Three point shooting is inconsistent
When under pressure he can become turnover prone
Athleticism is underwhelming
Foot speed may lead to struggles against quicker opponents
Not a confident shooter, will pass up open looks
Sportsvival’s Final Thoughts:
Kasparas Jakučionis is a solid prospect who has played against older professionals and has had success. His athleticism and foot speed could be an issue in the NBA where the league is much faster. Sportsvival sees Jakučionis as a lottery pick who should be a nice piece to a team’s rotation.
Sportsvival sees a comparison of Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves. Both players find a way to get the job done with below average athleticism.
(photo courtesy of Illinois Athletics)