December 12 – At this point there is no hype around Kasparas Jakucionis. It’s simply a recognition of how good Illinois’ freshman guard has been over the past two weeks. A four-game stretch in which the 6-foot-6 Lithuanian is averaging 22 points, seven rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 51 percent overall, 56 percent from three points and 95 percent from the free throw line.
“He absolutely dominates every game, and it’s insane,” said compatriot Kylan Boswell. “I love what he’s doing right now. I’m so happy for him. His energy, his IQ and his efficiency helps us all.”
Jakucionis scored a career-high 24 points in Illinois’ win over No. 20 Wisconsin on Tuesday to go with six rebounds and five assists. He made 4 of 8 three-pointers and was perfect at the free throw line.
“He’s mature; he’s played against grown men,” Wisconsin coach Greg Gard said. “Where he comes from, he’s well trained. They do a great job of development. … That’s what I thought watching him in film. Until you see him in person, you don’t ‘never sure it translates, but he’s a real He’s a good player with vision and composure He’s listed as a freshman, but he’s not He’s got more. experience than a typical freshman.
