OFFICIAL: Miami HEAT Sign 2025 First-Round Draft Pick Kasparas Jakučionis
The Miami HEAT have officially signed their 2025 first-round draft selection, guard Kasparas Jakučionis, the franchise announced today. The move finalizes the rookie’s entry into the NBA and solidifies Miami’s belief that the 6-foot-5 Lithuanian playmaker can be a key part of the team’s future.
Selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Jakučionis enters the league with a reputation as one of the most polished and intelligent guards of his class. The 19-year-old has drawn praise for his high basketball IQ, playmaking vision, and poise beyond his years. He’s coming off a standout season with FC Barcelona’s youth system and impressed scouts with his performances in the Euroleague’s junior ranks and the FIBA youth competitions.
“We are thrilled to bring Kasparas into the HEAT family,” said HEAT President Pat Riley in the team’s press release. “He’s a skilled guard with a strong work ethic, excellent court sense, and a true competitor’s mentality. We believe he’ll grow into a great fit for our culture.”
Jakučionis, who has been described as a “floor general” with an elite feel for the game, is expected to fill a versatile backcourt role in Miami. Though primarily a point guard, he has the size and shooting touch to slide into either guard position. His combination of smooth ball-handling, crafty finishing, and developing three-point range makes him a promising modern NBA guard.
The Lithuanian native caught the attention of HEAT scouts early in his international career. Known for developing talent regardless of draft position, Miami hopes Jakučionis can contribute quickly in an evolving backcourt that may see major changes in the coming seasons.
Head coach Erik Spoelstra expressed optimism about his newest rookie: “Kasparas plays with great tempo and control. You can see the maturity in how he manages the game. That’s rare for someone his age. We’re excited to begin working with him and help accelerate his development.”
Jakučionis is expected to join the HEAT for Summer League play, giving fans their first look at how the European prodigy adjusts to NBA pace and physicality. His performance there will help determine how quickly he can earn meaningful minutes during the 2025-26 regular season.
For Jakučionis, the signing marks a dream come true. “I’ve worked my whole life for this moment,” he said. “To be part of the Miami HEAT — a team with such a strong identity and winning history — is an honor. I’m ready to work hard and help this team any way I can.”
As the HEAT look to retool and refocus in the post-Jimmy Butler era, adding high-upside youth like Jakučionis could prove critical. With the signing now official, Miami fans will be watching closely to see if their newest young talent can live up to the lofty expectations that come with wearing a HEAT jersey.
Let the Jakučionis era begin in South Beach.
