Arnas Sakenis, a standout from SIUE and the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year, has signed to play in the NBA Summer League with the Miami Heat. He is the first-ever player from SIUE to participate in this league, set to commence next week in California. Sakenis transitioned from a walk-on to a record-setting player at SIUE, concluding his career as the program's all-time leader in blocked shots at 160. His performance during college included leading the league with 75 blocks in his senior year and a substantial contribution to SIUE's OVC Championship team.

By the Numbers
  • First player from SIUE to participate in the NBA Summer League.
  • 160 career blocked shots, SIUE's all-time leader.
  • Led the OVC with 75 blocks as a senior.
  • Averaged 8.8 points per game overall, and 10.7 in league contests.
  • Achieved 16 double-digit scoring games in senior year.
State of Play
  • Sakenis's selection reflects his dedication and improvement throughout his four years at SIUE.
  • SIUE's basketball program is celebrating this milestone as a significant achievement.
What's Next

As Sakenis prepares for the Summer League, he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and compete at the professional level, potentially paving the way for a spot in the NBA.

Bottom Line

Arnas Sakenis's participation in the NBA Summer League marks a historic moment for SIUE basketball, highlighting the evolution of a walk-on role player into a top-tier athlete with aspirations for professional success.