Illinois Reacts to Andrej Stojakovic’s Career Decision on Wednesday

Andrej Stojakovic Gives Illinois Massive Boost

Stojakovic’s return instantly changes the ceiling for Illinois entering next season.

The 6-foot-7 wing averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season while emerging as one of the Big Ten’s most versatile two-way players. He also became a critical part of Illinois’ NCAA Tournament success, averaging 13.8 points during the team’s five-game tournament run to the Final Four.

His postseason performances included 21 points against the VCU Rams in the Round of 32 and another strong showing in the Elite Eight.

Illinois now returns five of its top eight scorers from last season’s Final Four team.

That core includes David Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic, Zvonimir Ivisic and Jake Davis alongside Stojakovic, while the Illini also added major transfer portal and freshman talent during the offseason.

NBA Draft Process Helped Shape Decision

Stojakovic spent weeks evaluating his NBA future before ultimately deciding another college season made the most sense.

The son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojakovic impressed scouts at the NBA Combine, where reports praised his athleticism and overall upside. He reportedly posted a 41.5-inch max vertical leap, one of the best marks among combine participants.

Still, projections largely viewed him as a late second-round selection if he stayed in the draft.

Returning to Illinois now gives Stojakovic an opportunity to improve his draft positioning in what is expected to be a weaker 2027 NBA Draft class.

“Another year of proving what I can do,” Stojakovic said earlier this month. “Continue to grow.”

Illinois Suddenly Looks Like National Title Threat

The reaction from Illinois fans on Wednesday reflected more than simple excitement.

With Stojakovic officially back, many around college basketball now expect Illinois to enter the season ranked among the top teams in the country. The Illini already added top transfer guard Stefan Vaaks and incoming freshmen Quentin Coleman and Lucas Morillo during the offseason.

Now they also retain one of the roster’s most experienced and battle-tested players.

Stojakovic’s ability to attack the rim, defend multiple positions and create offense in big moments gives Illinois one of the highest floors in the country entering the 2026-27 season.

More importantly for Illini fans, it also keeps alive the belief that last year’s Final Four run may not have been the program’s ceiling.