Andrej Stojakovic, the 6‑foot‑7 wing who helped Illinois reach the Final Four last season, announced that he will not enter the NBA Draft and will instead return for his senior year. His decision keeps five of the program’s top eight scorers from the championship run, reinforcing the Illini’s ambition to compete nationally.
Strategic Implications for Illinois Basketball
The return of Stojakovic coincides with the addition of transfer guard Stefan Vaaks and freshmen Quentin Coleman and Lucas Morillo, creating a deep and versatile roster. Illinois is projected to enter the preseason rankings among the top five teams, a testament to the continuity and talent infusion.
Stojakovic’s statistical profile reflects a well‑rounded contributor: he averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, shot 58.3% from the field, and connected on 80.5% of his free throws. His career‑best 6.0% offensive rebound rate and 119.5 offensive rating underscore his efficiency, while his defensive impact was highlighted by a standout second‑half performance against Iowa star Bennett Stirtz in the Elite Eight.
The player has set a clear personal agenda: improve his shooting consistency and decision‑making before the next draft cycle. By doing so, he hopes to increase his stock for the 2027 NBA Draft while pursuing a national championship with Illinois.
Beyond the on‑court impact, Stojakovic’s choice signals a broader trend of college players weighing immediate professional opportunities against the long‑term benefits of a collegiate championship run. His move could influence future draft strategies across the sport.