Former Illini Will Riley drafted by the Washington Wizards

Illinois forward Will Riley heard his name called as the #21st pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and is headed to the Washington Wizards. Technically, the Utah Jazz made this selection but traded this pick in a package for the 19th overall pick. Riley joins teammate Kasparas Jakucionis as a first-round selection, making Illinois one of just three schools to produce multiple first-round picks this year.

Riley, the highest-rated recruit in Illinois history (per 247 Sports), will begin his NBA journey at just 19 years old. During his lone season in Champaign, he showed flashes of brilliance and clear signs of future stardom, even though he’s still far from reaching his full potential. In his college debut, Riley exploded onto the scene with an impressive 31-point performance vs Eastern Illinois.

The Canadian-born forward is known for his ability to hit tough shots over defenders and slice through defenses with crafty finishes. As he continues to build strength and refine his ball-handling, Will Riley has the tools to develop into one of the NBA’s premier scorers.

In an era where big wings who can score in multiple ways are thriving, Riley fits the mold perfectly. Though raw, his long-term upside makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft class.

He now joins Jakucionis, Terrence Shannon Jr., and Ayo Dosunmu as the only Illinois players drafted since 2012. This is a trend that should continue as Illinois remains a destination for top-tier talent.

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