Andrej Stojakovic Returns, Boosting Illinois’ Push Toward Preseason No. 1

The Illinois Fighting Illini received a significant boost for the upcoming season as standout guard Andrej Stojakovic has decided to return for his final year of college basketball, according to reports from On3. The decision keeps one of the nation’s most productive players in place for a program coming off a strong campaign.

Stojakovic played a central role in Illinois’ offensive success last season, helping the team develop into one of the most efficient scoring units in the country. That production was instrumental in the Illini’s run to a Final Four appearance, marking one of the program’s deepest postseason runs in recent years.

After beginning his college career at Stanford and spending a season at California, Stojakovic transferred to Illinois and quickly established himself as a key contributor. His ability to adapt to different systems has been a defining feature of his collegiate journey.

Now, with his return confirmed, expectations around Illinois continue to rise as the program positions itself among the early contenders for national prominence.

1. Strong Season Despite Midyear Setback

Stojakovic’s 2024–25 campaign was one of steady production and resilience. He averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game while shooting 50 percent from the field, showcasing efficiency and consistency on both ends of the floor. He started 21 games early in the season, establishing himself as a reliable scoring option within the rotation. His ability to contribute as both a starter and reserve added versatility to Illinois’ lineup structure. A midseason ankle injury temporarily shifted his role, forcing him to come off the bench upon his return. However, rather than slowing his impact, the adjustment highlighted his scoring ability in a different capacity. His production off the bench became a key factor during Illinois’ strong late-season and postseason performances, particularly during the program’s March run.

2. Illinois Builds Deep, International Core

With Stojakovic returning, Illinois is shaping up to bring back a large portion of its core rotation. The roster continuity has positioned the program as a potential preseason No. 1 candidate heading into next year. A significant feature of the team’s construction is its international presence, which has brought a diverse mix of skill sets and playing styles. That blend has helped the Illini develop one of the most dynamic offenses in the country. Alongside Stojakovic, players such as David Mirković, Tomislav Ivišić, and Zvonimir Ivišić are expected to return, strengthening continuity across multiple positions. Additional reinforcements are also on the way, including portal addition Stefan Vaaks and incoming freshmen Quentin Coleman and Lucas Morillo, further deepening the roster.

3. High Expectations and Roster Movement

The returning core has sparked widespread preseason optimism, with analysts pointing to Illinois as a potential top-ranked team before the season even begins. The combination of experience, continuity, and depth has elevated expectations significantly. Stojakovic’s decision to stay reinforces that outlook, as his scoring ability and versatility remain central to the team’s offensive structure. His presence provides stability within a roster already rich in talent. However, not all roster movement has been in Illinois’ favor. Ty Rodgers entered the transfer portal earlier in the week, signaling that he is unlikely to return despite the program’s broader continuity. Rodgers is expected to attract interest from multiple programs nationwide, reflecting the depth of talent within Illinois’ system and the demand for experienced contributors in the transfer market.