CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — After a strong freshman season at Illinois, Kasparas Jakucionis is set to make his NBA debut with the Miami Heat.

Kendall Gill has some familiarity with the Heat organization, playing there during the 2001-02 season.

The former Illini guard was impressed with what he saw from KJ in terms of production and upside as he makes the move to the next level.

Miami’s knack for developing young talent gives Gill confidence that Jakucionis will succeed in the NBA.

“They’re going to develop KJ, and I can’t wait to see him in year two or three when he lines up alongside Tyler Herro playing off guard position and Bam Adebayo and running pick and rolls with those guys, and I know that his shot will improve,” Gill said. “A lot of people talk about how he’s turnover prone.” “He’s just 18-19 years old, that’s going to happen.” “He just got used to the American style of playing basketball, and I can’t wait to see him in year three, when he’s really adjusted to what the NBA is like.”