Illinois Star Andrej Stojakovic Tests NBA Draft While Keeping Return Option Open

The Illinois men’s basketball program, led by head coach Brad Underwood, delivered a landmark season in 2025–26 by advancing to the Final Four after a strong postseason run through a competitive South Region. Their success included a statement win over Houston in the Sweet 16, solidifying one of the program’s deepest tournament runs in recent history.

A major driver of that success was guard Andrej Stojakovic, a key transfer addition who quickly became one of Illinois’ most impactful perimeter players. His production and versatility helped stabilize an offense that consistently performed at a high level throughout the tournament.

Following the conclusion of the season, Stojakovic has now entered his name into the NBA Draft while preserving the option to return to college basketball. The decision keeps both his professional future and his collegiate status open.

His draft declaration reflects both his rising stock and the strong postseason performance that elevated his national profile during Illinois’ Final Four run.

1. Breakout Season Fuels Draft Decision

Stojakovic emerged as one of Illinois’ most reliable scoring options during the 2025–26 campaign, playing a pivotal role in the team’s offensive structure. His ability to contribute in multiple areas made him a consistent presence in high-pressure games. During the NCAA Tournament, he was recognized as an All-Region selection, underscoring his impact on Illinois’ deep postseason run. His performances were especially important in tightly contested matchups. Illinois’ offense often relied on his ability to create advantages, particularly in half-court sets where his size and strength allowed him to attack mismatches effectively. His contributions helped fuel one of the most efficient offensive units in the country during the season, with Stojakovic serving as a key connector between perimeter and interior scoring.

2. Balanced Skill Set And NBA Lineage

Stojakovic brings a versatile offensive profile that blends perimeter shooting ability with strong interior finishing. While he is capable of spacing the floor, his most consistent production has come from attacking the basket. As a physical guard, he excels at getting downhill and finishing through contact, making him a difficult matchup for smaller defenders. His playmaking ability in traffic also allows him to create opportunities for teammates. His basketball background adds additional context to his development, as he is the son of former NBA sharpshooter Peja Stojaković. That lineage has contributed to expectations surrounding his shooting and offensive instincts. Despite that connection, his game has evolved beyond perimeter shooting, with his driving ability becoming a defining feature of his collegiate production.

3. Illinois Outlook For 2026 Season

During the 2025–26 season, Stojakovic averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game while shooting 50 percent from the field. His overall efficiency made him a consistent contributor throughout Illinois’ tournament run. Although his three-point shooting numbers dipped compared to his previous season at Cal, there is belief within scouting circles that his outside shooting could improve with further development and refinement. Illinois will face roster changes heading into the next season, including the departure of guard Keaton Wagler to the NBA Draft. However, the return of forward David Mirkovic provides stability in the frontcourt. If Stojakovic ultimately withdraws from the draft and returns to Illinois, the program could once again position itself as a national contender given its returning core and recent postseason success.