Jun. 28—Former Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis had his introductory press conference Friday in Miami after the Heat selected him with the 20th overall pick in the NBA draft on Wednesday night in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Jakucionis got a grip-and-grin photo opportunity with Miami coach Erik Spoelstra and team president Pat Riley before he got the dais to himself to field about 8 minutes worth of questions. Of note, the 6-foot-6 guard will wear No. 25 with the Heat. It’s a number worn by eight former Miami players, including another one-time Illini guard Kendrick Nunn in 2020-21.

Here are some of the highlights from Jakucionis’ back-and-forth with the Miami press corps (where he got to show off his Spanish skills):

On his basketball journey from Lithuania to Spain to Illinois

“I think every time I moved to play somewhere — especially from home when I was just 15 — helped me grow as a person and as a player. I learned new cultures. I played different style of games because Spain is different than Lithuania, and then I moved to Illinois and another adjustment to play U.S. basketball more than Spanish. All these adjustments gave me more experience. Obviously, it’s a process, and I can’t wait to start working.”

On guards he likes to study

“I like to be myself, but I also like to take some things from other players, too. When I was little I was watching Luka (Doncic) when he was still at Madrid because I moved to Spain after, too. I watched his playmaking and shot creation. I like how Andrew Nembhard gives 100 percent on both ends of the floor trying to do the right plays and play the game the right way.”

On basketball in Lithuania

“Lithuania is not a big country. It’s only 2.5 million people, but everyone lives basketball. Everybody is trying to make the best out of it, and everybody supports it.”

On getting to use his Spanish skills

“I love Spanish. When I lived in Spain I learned it pretty quick. I’m excited to be here with the Latin culture.”