With the 2021 NCAA Final Four in the history books and the NBA Season fast approaching its new playoff play-in, hoop fans all over the world will soon jump into scout mode readying themselves for the NBA Draft. This is especially the case for fans of the 14 NBA Teams that find themselves on the outside looking in once the play-in games are over. In addition to the most magical and heart-warming moments of watching young men realize their dreams, the NBA Draft is also fantastic because the lead up to and culmination of Draft Night allow the die-hards to remain plugged into their Teams’ quests to uncover gems and change their fortunes.
As for an Emerald Gem, remember the name Rokas Jokubaitis. The 6’4” 20-year-old Lithuanian Guard, playing in the EuroLeague for Zalgiris Kaunas in his emerald green #31 jersey, may not be a hooper all fans are familiar. He’s a lefty capable of running the point or playing off-ball. In 2018, he faced a LaMelo Ball led team in Lithuania and notched a game high 31 points. Since then, he has grown several more inches and is now one of the rising stars of the EuroLeague. He is an elite spot up shooter. He also excels in the pick and roll, an absolute prerequisite for any NBA Prospect.
Last Season, Jokubaitis made himself eligible for the 2020 Draft. However, with the Pandemic impacting typical pre-draft player workouts and evaluations, he withdrew his name. Some talent evaluators expect he could be selected in the first round of the 2021 Draft. His skillset is first round worthy. The passion he plays with is lottery worthy. His fierce competitiveness and pure joy on the court is something to behold. His court vision is special enabling him to pick defenses apart with timely kicks to spot up shooters or dimes dropped to his pick and roll or pick and pop screeners. He’ll grab and go, coast to coast, finishing creatively at the rim or pulling up with a smooth jumper.
His long arms and relentless motor make him a solid defender on the perimeter capable of guarding 1-3. He’s worked hard in the weight room adding muscle to his frame. He fights to get over screens, is alert with his switches, and closes out hard on shooters running them off the three.
He makes a rangy and unique impact on both ends of the court with his athleticism, length, and lefty-style of play. He should soon make an impact in the NBA and a worldwide name for himself in the process, so remember Rokas!
-Dusty Mat, 2021
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