Pat Riley’s Reaction to Miami Heat’s Draft Selection Turns Heads originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Draft night is always a high-stakes affair — one pick can shape a franchise’s future for years to come. And if you’ve been around the league long enough, like Pat Riley, you know exactly what’s at stake on draft night.
That’s why when the Miami Heat made their selection this year, all eyes turned to Riley’s reaction. No poker face, no cryptic nods, just a look that said it all. Judging by his expression, the Heat got exactly who they were hoping for in Kasparas Jakucionis, who they drafted 20th in the first round of the 2025 NBA draft in Brooklyn.
Pat Riley looks very happy with Kasparas Jakucionis 😭
(via @WillManso) pic.twitter.com/q9WbWZzqax
— 𝙃𝙀𝘼𝙏 𝙉𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 (@HeatvsHaters) June 26, 2025
A clip that is now going viral on X shows the president of the Miami Heat elated and pointing at his staff after landing Jakucionis. Fans had a lot to say about Riley’s reaction. Here are some of the reactions that stand out —
One fan said, “Untouchable, Untouchable, Untouchable, Untouchable, aaaand Untouchable”
Another fan added, “Most action I’ve seen all offseason”
“Future untouchable player for Edwards”- commented a fan praising Jakucionis.
Recent times haven’t been the best for the Heat, which prompted a fan to say, “This the happiest I’ve seen bro in years.”
Conceding defeat, a fan said, “As much as I love hating on this geezer, I gotta say I like the pick.”
“Lmaoo we’re cooked he’s gonna say that’s the only upgrade we needed and go back to bed”- added a fan expecting a lot more from his team.
Pat Riley’s influence on the Miami Heat spans three decades. Since stepping in as head coach and president in 1995, he transformed the expansion franchise into an NBA powerhouse.
He led Miami to its first title in 2006 while coaching and overseeing team operations, while also helping build the iconic “Big Three” era. Though he stepped down as the Heat coach in 2008, he continued with his duties as the president of Miami. Apart from their 2006 achievement, the Miami Heat also won the coveted honor in 2012 and 2013 under his able leadership. He also guided the Heat to seven Finals appearances overall. Therefore, if there is anyone on the Heat capable of identifying good prospects, it’s definitely Riley.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 26, 2025, where it first appeared.