The Fighting Illini have begun to attract serious draft attention as the 2027 NBA Draft approaches, with multiple players projected to hear their names called on night one.
A Core of Talent
Quentin Coleman stands out as the most highly touted Illinois prospect, currently slotted inside the top twenty and widely regarded as the state’s premier pick. His combination of size, shooting and defensive versatility has placed him at the center of early mock drafts.
Joining him, David Mirkovic is expected to land at No. 37 overall, a slot reserved for the New Orleans Pelicans, while Andrej Stojakovic could slide to No. 49 with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Both players are praised for their skill sets, with Stojakovic’s shooting slated for further development.
Lucas Morillo and Tomislav Ivisic are both projected to be selected in the second round, potentially landing with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets respectively. Their defensive instincts and rebounding prowess make them attractive late‑round assets.
Sleepers and Upside
Beyond the established names, sleepers such as Stefan Vaaks and Zvonimir Ivisic are generating buzz; Vaaks could break into the first round if his shooting sharpens, while Ivisic’s three‑point development might propel him into a notable pick. The roster also features rising talents like Keaton Wagler and Kylan Boswell, who could surprise as the program continues to evolve under coach Brad Underwood.
The broader basketball landscape adds context, as NBA legend Nikola Jokic remains a touchstone for international prospects, underscoring the global reach of the draft.