Miami HEAT Officially Sign 2025 First-Round Draft Pick Kasparas Jakučionis
MIAMI, FL – July 6, 2025 – The Miami HEAT announced today that they have officially signed their 2025 first-round draft pick, guard Kasparas Jakučionis to a rookie-scale contract. The Lithuanian-born guard, selected with the 18th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is expected to bring a dynamic mix of playmaking, shooting, and international experience to Miami’s backcourt.
Jakučionis, 19, emerged as one of the most promising international prospects in recent years. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 190 pounds, the combo guard has garnered attention for his high basketball IQ, mature court vision, and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Prior to the draft, he played for FC Barcelona B in the Spanish LEB Silver League, as well as for the Lithuanian junior national team in several FIBA competitions.
“Kasparas is an incredibly skilled and intelligent young player,” said HEAT President Pat Riley. “We’ve been watching him closely for the last few years, and he’s only continued to impress. He plays with poise beyond his age, and we’re thrilled to officially bring him into the Miami HEAT culture.”
The HEAT have long been known for identifying and developing international talent, and Jakučionis fits the mold of a player who can evolve in Miami’s demanding system. With a strong handle, impressive passing instincts, and a developing outside shot, he projects as a versatile guard capable of playing both on and off the ball. In his final season in Europe, Jakučionis averaged 13.4 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, while shooting 37.2% from beyond the arc.
Jakučionis was also a standout at the 2024 FIBA U18 European Championship, where he led Lithuania to a bronze medal and earned All-Tournament honors, showcasing his ability to shine under pressure.
“I’m incredibly honored and excited to be a part of the Miami HEAT family,” said Jakučionis in a statement released by the team. “This organization has a strong legacy, and I’m ready to work hard and contribute in any way I can. I’ve dreamed of playing in the NBA, and now that dream is a reality.”
The HEAT are expected to give Jakučionis a featured role in the upcoming NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, where fans will get their first chance to see him in a HEAT uniform. While his long-term role in the rotation is yet to be defined, the organization is optimistic that he can contribute sooner rather than later.
Miami’s signing of Jakučionis signals a continued investment in the future of their backcourt, potentially pairing him alongside emerging star guards like Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Jakučionis will wear jersey number 10.
With the ink now dry on his rookie contract, the next chapter begins for one of Europe’s brightest young stars — and the HEAT faithful can look forward to seeing his journey un
fold in South Beach.
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