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In the opening game of the 2025 California Classic Summer League, Kasparas Jakucionis faced difficulties while playing for the Miami Heat.
Despite the team’s victory, winning 82-69 against the San Antonio Spurs at San Francisco’s Chase Center, the 19-year-old Lithuanian combo guard struggled with his shooting, finishing with only 1 for 7 from the field, including a disappointing 0 for 4 from beyond the arc. He managed just one rebound and one assist, along with three turnovers, and played for 22 minutes under coach Eric Glass.
After his first professional game, Jakucionis reflected on the experience, stating, “It was my first game, and it was quite different,” as reported by the Miami Herald. He added, “I’m pleased with how the team performed. We played well together, showed good effort, shared the ball effectively, and functioned as a unit.”
Previously a player for Illinois during the 2024-25 NCAA season and coming from FC Barcelona’s youth program, Jakucionis was selected 20th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft presented by State Farm.
Regarding his versatility, he commented on transitioning between point guard and shooting guard during Saturday’s game, “I believe I can adjust well to both on-ball and off-ball roles. I feel confident in each position and aim to contribute effectively to the team’s success no matter the role I take on.”
He further emphasized the importance of “energy, communication, aggressiveness, and giving maximum effort” as part of the strategy for the Summer League moving forward.
Jakucionis has already inked a rookie contract with the Heat, positioning himself for a place on the roster at the start of the 2024-25 Regular Season.
Photo Credit: YouTube
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