He was picked by Orlando Magic but was immediately traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for a 2020 first round pick (from Oklahoma City) and a 2020 second round pick.
"It's very difficult to describe what I'm feeling. I've been working and thinking about this moment for the last five years so I don't really know how I should react," an exalted Pasečņiks told LTV.
It will emerge during the following weeks whether he'll be staying in Spain to build up his form and gain experience or will try breaking into the league this season.
He told LTV he'd been smiling for three straight hours after it was announced he's being picked in the first round.
"What's important now is that I don't relax, that I make new goals and keep on working," he said.
In line with another of Latvia's big guys - Kristaps Porziņģis - Pasečņiks' surname is likely to be a tongue-twister to commentators.
Pasečņiks, a 21-year-old, 7'2" center, played for Spain's Gran Canaria Herbalife last season, averaging 8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game.
