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Social Media Reacts to Illinois' Will Riley Being Drafted by Washington Wizards
Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Will Riley stands with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected as the 21st pick by the Utah Jazz in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Social Media Reacts to Illinois' Will Riley Being Drafted by Washington Wizards

Originally posted on Illinois Fighting Illini on SI
By Pranav Hegde  |  Last updated Jun 26, 2025 3:35 AM ET

Illinois didn't have to wait long after the drafting of its first-ever one-and-done player for the next one to come off the board. After Illini freshman Kasparas Jakucionis was selected by the Miami Heat with the No. 20 pick in Wednesday's NBA Draft, teammate and classmate Will Riley went to the Washington Wizards one pick later (conveyed by Utah).

Canada's Riley, another standout global talent for the Illini, made a significant impact during his lone season in Champaign. Initially coming off the bench for coach Brad Underwood’s squad, he steadily earned a larger role and finished the year as a key starter. Over the course of the 2024-25 season, Riley averaged an impressive 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists, showcasing his versatility and growth on both ends of the floor.

The versatile 6-foot-8 wing turned heads throughout the season, flashing high-level potential with his combination of length, fluid athleticism and elite shot-making ability – traits that made Riley an intriguing prospect for NBA scouts. Being selected by the Wizards gives Riley a valuable opportunity to develop and play through mistakes with limited pressure, as Washington (18-64 and last place in the Eastern Conference last season) figures to be at least a couple of years away from contending.

Basketball fans on social media had plenty to say about Riley and the pick, and the buzz was immediate. Here are some of the more memorable responses:

Fashion icon?

Underwood's Europeans

Wizards fans are feeling the pick

Canada's finest

Seeing double?

More history in Champaign

Riley's own thoughts

More From Illinois on Sports Illustrated:

A Look at Each Illinois NBA Draft Pick Since the Turn of the Century

Ty Rodgers' Injury: How It Will Shake Up Illinois' Projected Rotation

Brad Underwood, Bret Bielema, Shauna Green Feature in Chicago Cubs' 'Illini Night'

This article first appeared on Illinois Fighting Illini on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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