Miami Heat sign Arnas Sakenis after he goes undrafted

The former Southern Illinois University Edwardsville rim protector, who averaged 2.3 blocks per game and shot 63.7% from the field in 32 contests, will look to earn a spot in the Heat’s NBA rotation after the 2026 draft.

By The Apex Times Newsroom2 min readAI-assisted Apex article

Miami moved quickly after the 2026 NBA Draft, signing Arnas Sakenis as an undrafted free agent. Sakenis, a defensive center known for shot-blocking and efficiency around the rim, enters the organization with a clear calling card after a productive season at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

In 2025-26, Sakenis played in 32 games for SIUE and averaged 8.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per contest. The numbers were reinforced by strong field-goal efficiency, as he reportedly converted 63.7% of his attempts. The combination of scoring efficiency and rim protection is the profile Miami is typically seeking from players who can defend at the second level and stay effective in limited minutes.

The signing comes shortly after the draft, when undrafted prospects often have to balance two realities. They can get opportunities through training camp and developmental rosters, but they also must show they can adapt quickly to NBA spacing, pace, and finishing angles. For Sakenis, the most immediate question is whether his shot-blocking timing and positioning from the college game can translate against faster reads and more varied offensive moves in the NBA.

Miami’s interest also fits a broader build approach that values defensive presence near the basket. Shot suppression can shift an opponent’s shot selection, and a center who can finish plays and deter drives can raise a team’s defensive floor. If Sakenis earns more than a practice-squad role, the Heat’s coaching staff will likely lean on his ability to rebound, protect the rim, and make high-percentage plays rather than ask for perimeter responsibilities.

For SIUE, the story is also a recruiting and program report. When a player with measurable rim protection and efficient scoring draws NBA attention, it can strengthen the program’s pitch to recruits who want both a development path and a realistic route to pro opportunities.

What to watch next is how Sakenis is positioned in Miami’s offseason plans. His path will likely involve learning schemes, building chemistry with teammates, and demonstrating that his defensive instincts remain consistent as his minutes and matchup assignments increase. Any further details about his contract or timeline for roster participation would be important for evaluating how quickly he can contribute.

Why It Matters

Rim protection and efficient finishing are premium skills for NBA big men, and Sakenis’ college production gives Miami an immediate defensive prospect to evaluate.
Undrafted signings can alter training-camp competition, especially at center, where roles often solidify late in the offseason.
A successful transition would add depth to Miami’s frontcourt, particularly in situations that require shot deterrence and rebounding.

Sources

Key Facts

Arnas Sakenis was signed by the Miami Heat after the 2026 NBA Draft as an undrafted free agent.
He played college basketball at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
In 32 games in 2025-26, Sakenis averaged 8.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game.
He reportedly shot 63.7% from the field during that season.
The signing was reported in connection with his undrafted status on Wednesday after the draft.