Jakucionis named Big Ten Freshman of the Week

Kasparas Jakucionis, the Illinois freshman guard, has been named Big Ten Freshman of the Week, sharing the honor with Rutgers' Dylan Harper.

By Elizabeth Hess December 16, 2024 4:17 pm

Chambana Todaysi.comKasparas Jakucionis is named co-Big Ten Player of the Week.

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Kasparas Jakucionis, the Illinois freshman guard, has been named Big Ten Freshman of the Week, sharing the honor with Rutgers’ Dylan Harper. This marks the second time this season an Illini player has received the award, following Will Riley’s recognition in week one.

Jakucionis had an impressive week, averaging 23 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in two games against top-20 teams. He led Illinois to a victory over #20 Wisconsin, scoring a career-high 24 points, making eight field goals, and adding six rebounds and five assists. He followed that up with 22 points against #1 Tennessee, including a career-high 10 made free throws on 14 attempts.

Jakucionis has now extended his Illini freshman record to five consecutive 20-point games, and he’s been the team’s leading scorer in each of those contests.

The Illini are back in action this Sunday, taking on Missouri in the annual McBride Homes Braggin’ Rights game at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis. Tip-off is at 12 p.m. on ESPN.