Big Ten Basketball: Top 10 impact freshmen for 2024-25 season
No. 2: Kasparas Jakucionis (Illinois)
Hailing from Lithuania, Kasparas Jakucionis looks to bring an influx of talent to the Illinois program. Jakucionis brings a level of experience to Illinois, as he is one of the youngest players to ever suit up for FC Barcelona.
Jakucionis is a polished score first guard. He uses his size, athleticism and handle in order to get to his spots and hit tough jumpers over defenders. When the jumper is taken away, Jakucionis uses his handle and athleticism, while utilizing crafty finishes to score over bigger defenders.
Jakucionis will also be able to use his high-level passing in order to be an offensive engine for Illinois. The young Lithuanian will likely have ample opportunity to live up to the lofty expectations of a top 10 NBA draft pick. Illinois only returns one guard from last year's squad in Dra GIbbs-Lawhorn, and will likely turn to Jakucionis as the lead guard.
No. 1: Airious "Ace" Bailey (Rutgers)
As the top incoming recruit in the Big Ten this year, Ace Bailey is among the most talented players the league has ever seen as a freshman. Everything, from his unique, well-rounded, developed game to the name "Air," screams superstar. Hailing from Powder Springs, Georgia, Bailey joins Dylan Harper to headline Rutgers' star-studded recruiting class.
At six-foot-eight, Bailey has a unique ability to handle and shoot the ball at his size. He uses his length to shoot over defenders efficiently and has a handle to help him get to any spot on the floor. An elite athlete, Bailey can get to the rim with ease. Despite his offensive ability, early reports from Rutgers practice are praising him most for his motor and ability to guard one through five.
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That ability to guard one through five will be crucial in a Steve Pikiell system where defense is required. Bailey projects to be the number one option on a Rutgers squad that has plenty of shots to go around. Bailey should have the chance to cement himself as a top-five pick.