The 20-year-old defender debuted this summer in the Lithuanian men’s national team, where he learned that he was part of the famous Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, after which K. Jakučionis had to move from “Miami Heat” to the “Bucks” team.
“The trade happened around 6 AM Lithuanian time. I was sleeping, and when I woke up around 8, I read a message from my agent. That’s how I found out I was traded,” – “Mundo Deportivo” quotes the Lithuanian.
“It’s not an easy process,” K. Jakučionis said about the trade experience.
“I played my first season in the NBA, but I knew it could happen. And when it does, you just do what you have to do. What you can control. Work hard in practice and don’t think too much about it.”
“I’m very happy that I’ve already met everyone in Milwaukee – coaches and players. I haven’t spent much time there yet, but I really liked it, even very much. We haven’t talked about my role yet, but we will have time for that,” K. Jakučionis continued, who played 53 games (12 starts) in his debut NBA season, averaging 6.2 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.6 rebounds in 18 minutes.
K. Jakučionis also admitted that he doesn’t forget his time with the “Barcelona” team, into whose system he moved at just 15 years old.
“Barca” will remain in my heart forever. Only the best memories,” shared the Lithuanian, revealing that he also keeps in touch with Šarūnas Jasikevičius.
“We don’t talk every day, but sometimes we text,” K. Jakučionis replied, soon after being asked by “Mundo Deportivo” if “Barcelona” should have kept Š. Jasikevičius as coach?
“I don’t know much about that situation, but I think so,” the defender replied.
It was under Šaras’ coaching that K. Jakučionis debuted in the “Barca” men’s team:
VIDEO: The Dream Debut of KASPARAS JAKUCIONIS | Liga Endesa 2022-23
The Dream Debut of KASPARAS JAKUCIONIS | Liga Endesa 2022-23
We remind you that after “Barca”‘s decision not to extend the contract with Š. Jasikevičius, the Catalan club has not won any trophy for three years.
Meanwhile, under Šaras’ coaching, “Barcelona” won both the Spanish championship and the national cup twice in three seasons (2020–2023) and reached the EuroLeague Final Four all three times.
“I don’t know what mistakes were made, but we need to look to the future. You can’t look back, only forward,” K. Jakučionis replied.
