Basketball
Illini Will Riley posts impressive measurements at 2025 NBA Draft
The former five-star freshman will be a first round draft choice in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Will Riley battled through adversity during his freshman season and showed significant improvement as the year progressed. He earned Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year honors and played a key role in helping Illinois secure a win in the NCAA Tournament.
The Canadian forward reclassified and became Illinois’ highest-ranked recruit of all time, according to 247 Sports. Riley was rated a 5-star prospect and ranked as the No. 20 overall recruit in the 2024 class.
After just one season at Illinois, Riley declared for the NBA Draft and is currently going through the pre-draft process. The 19-year-old received an invitation to the NBA Draft Combine, where he’ll look to boost his stock and solidify his status as a first-round pick.
Riley’s size and natural scoring ability have caught the attention of NBA scouts. He proved capable of hitting tough shots at the collegiate level and is expected to continue improving as he adds strength to his frame.
At the NBA Combine, Riley’s measurements could further elevate his draft position. He measured in at 6’8 ¼” barefoot with a 6’8 ¾” wingspan and an 8’8” standing reach.
With the rise of NIL opportunities, there’s always a chance Riley could return to Illinois for a second season, depending on where he’s projected to be drafted. However, a guaranteed first-round contract is difficult to pass up, making it likely he’ll remain in the draft.
ESPN is particularly high on Riley, projecting him to be selected 16th overall by the Orlando Magic. He won’t participate in the scrimmages at the Combine on Wednesday, so it remains to be seen how much more he can boost his stock in the coming days.
