The 2025 NBA Draft could be a special time for the Illinois basketball program.
The Fighting Illini and coach Brad Underwood are expected to have two players drafted, with the possibility of two Illinois players in the first round — something that has not happened in two decades.
Only twice have two Illini gone in the first round of the same NBA draft: Deron Williams and Luther Head in 2005; and Nick Anderson and Kenny Battle in 1989.
International guards Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley could be next. They are among the top prospects in the pool of prospective draftees, each ranked in the top 30 according to 10 aggregate mock drafts compiled by HoopsHype of the USA TODAY Network.
10. Kasparas Jakucionis
The 6-foot-5 Lithuanian guard is ranked between No. 4 and 12 in the various mock drafts, according to HoopsHype. He averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists in his only season in Champaign. He shot 44 percent overall and 31.8 on 3-pointers.
“Jakucionis is a big, skilled guard with excellent vision and a steady floor game,” wrote HoopsHype. “He can run an offense or play off the ball thanks to him being a willing shooter. If his shooting, shot creation and defense catch up, he’ll be a reliable lead guard with All-Star potential.”
A pro scout told HoopsHype: “Kasparas has the vision, but the assist-to-turnover ratio’s rough. Secondary creator at best — not a franchise PG.”
28. Will Riley
The 6-foot-8 Canadian guard is ranked as high as No. 16 in various mock drafts, writes HoopsHype. He averaged 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists in one season with the Illini. He shot 43.2 percent overall and 32.6 percent from 3-point range.
“Riley has excellent size for a guard, a smooth jumper, and a feel for the game,” writes HoopsHype. … “He doesn’t possess the ballhandling or passing ability to be a floor general. Riley projects more as a swingman who can be a connective piece for a team. He’s not the most physical player, but if he develops as a ball-handler and finisher, he could earn a rotation spot.”
A pro scout said: “Upside is there, but 185 lbs and streaky as hell. Needs to play off-ball.”