Chambana Sun

Illinois basketball players Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley, both freshmen, have declared for the upcoming NBA Draft. This decision comes after their impressive performances during the season.

Jakucionis, from Vilnius, Lithuania, was a standout for the Illini, leading the team in scoring and assists with an average of 15.2 points and 4.7 assists per game. He also contributed 5.7 rebounds per game. Jakucionis matched the record for most points scored by an Illini freshman with 494 points, made 84.5% of his free throws, and had eight 20-point games. He received multiple accolades, including being named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.

"Kasparas had a fantastic year, and I am so impressed with how well he handled all that was thrown at him," stated head coach Brad Underwood. He heralded Jakucionis for his multifaceted impact and lauded his character and passion for the sport.

Will Riley, hailing from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, averaged 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game across 35 games. He scored in double digits in 13 of the last 15 games, earning five 20-point performances during that time. Riley's strong year led him to be named Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year by the league coaches.

"Will is one of the most gifted offensive talents I have ever coached," Underwood said. He praised Riley's work ethic and dedication, noting the player's significant physical and on-court progress.

Both players were instrumental in guiding Illinois to a 22-win season and reaching the NCAA Tournament's Second Round. They aim to be the first from the program to enter the NBA after just one year of college basketball.

Brad Underwood remarked on the significance of their achievements, saying, "It says a lot about the status of our program," and highlighted the efforts in bringing talented players like Jakucionis and Riley to the university.

The 2025 NBA Draft is set for June 25-26 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.