Big Ten Powerhouse Loses Top NBA Draft Prospect After NCAA Tournament
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through college basketball and NBA circles alike, Illinois' star guard Kasparas Jakucionis made the heartfelt announcement on Monday morning.
Following a season that saw Illinois ride high on fresh talent, Jakucionis has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, leaving the Fighting Illini with a gaping hole after their NCAA Tournament exit, per Jonathan Givony.
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In his emotional conversation with ESPN, the 6‑foot‑6 Lithuanian guard admitted, 'This has been my dream from a young age. I've waited for this moment a long time. Saying goodbye to Illinois will be the hardest part.'
His decision comes on the heels of a second-round exit from the NCAA Tournament against Kentucky, a loss that ultimately sealed his fate as he opted to make the jump to the NBA.
Despite a disappointing ending, Jakucionis's lone season at Illinois put the Lithuanian phenom on the map.
Averaging 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists over 33 games at Illinois, the 18-year-old freshman earned a spot on the Third-Team All-Big Ten and the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.
Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood.Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
A widely projected lottery pick, Jakucionis is widely celebrated for his high basketball IQ and creative playmaking—qualities that have drawn comparisons to stars like Luka Doncic.
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'I study Doncic for how he reads the game,' Jakucionis revealed, adding that he also learns from Euroleague greats such as Nick Calathes and Kostas Sloukas.
Similar to Doncic, Jakucionis honed his talents in the Liga ACB, competing in the rigorous environments of FC Barcelona's youth system and numerous FIBA tournaments.
As the draft approaches, the basketball world now watches eagerly to see if this top prospect can transition his polished college game into an NBA star.
Related: Alabama Dealt Unfortunate News After NCAA Tournament
Related: Michigan State's Jase Richardson Sends Message to Teammate After Transfer Portal Decision
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