Andrej Stojakovic, the Illinois Fighting Illini’s 6‑foot‑7 senior wing, has decided to pull his name from the NBA Draft and will suit up for the university again in the 2026‑27 season. The move, announced on May 27, the NCAA’s withdrawal deadline, guarantees his eligibility while preserving the momentum he helped generate during the team’s recent Final Four run.
A deadline‑day decision
Stojakovic’s withdrawal came precisely on the deadline day, a timing that locks in his college status and allows the program to plan around his return. The announcement was made public shortly after he had earlier declared his intention to test the professional waters, only to reverse course after weighing the opportunities presented by the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago.
During the 2025‑26 campaign he averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, shooting 58.3% from two‑point range and converting over 80% of his free‑throw attempts. Those efficiency numbers, combined with his defensive contributions, made him a key factor in Illinois’ deep tournament run.
Roster continuity and future expectations
His decision to stay means Illinois will retain five of the eight top scorers from the previous season, preserving much of the offensive firepower that propelled them to the Final Four. Coaches expect his return to not only stabilize the lineup but also to elevate the team’s competitiveness as they aim for another deep playoff push.
The move underscores a broader trend of top collegiate talent electing to remain in school when the professional outlook does not guarantee a definitive upgrade. For Illinois, Stojakovic’s presence should translate into a stronger, more experienced squad heading into the next season.