News: Illinois Basketball Named Finalist for Top Transfer Wing

The Illinois basketball staff has been full throttle in their pursuit of top transfer portal wing Andrej Stojaković. The California native, who also holds Greek and Serbian roots, could be exactly what the doctor ordered for Brad Underwood, as Illinois prepares to lose its two talented one-and-done freshmen to the NBA in June’s draft.

After a freshman season at Stanford, Stojaković transferred to Cal, where he averaged 17.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game last season, shooting 42.7% from the field and 31.2% from three — earning All-ACC Honorable Mention honors as a sophomore.

Could Brad Underwood and Orlando Antigua’s recent success — along with their deep European ties — help the Illini make the right pitch to land a much-needed piece to thier roster?

According to Joe Tipton of On3, the 6’7″ former McDonald’s All-American is down to three finalists: His former stop in Stanford,  a new contender in North Carolina, and, of course, Underwood and Illinois Basketball.

Cal transfer guard Andrej Stojaković is down to three schools, source told @On3sports:

North Carolina
Illinois
Stanford

Stojaković began his career at Stanford. https://t.co/i8dfR4lf5X

— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) April 27, 2025

Notable in this Recruitment for Illinois Basketball

A blue blood like North Carolina stepping into this recruitment does make things a bit interesting for everyone. Though the Heels have not been national contenders for a few seasons – history and NIL is a big selling point. Regardless of Andrej’s final decision, the heavy interest he is receiving from a program like UNC is telling nevertheless.

Stanford offers plenty of familiarity for Stojaković and could provide some much-needed stability as he looks for his third home in three seasons. Could staying close to home in Carmichael, California, and running it back with the Cardinal be the right move for the talented shooter?

Luckily for coach Underwood and Illinois Basketball, the priority wing was was in Champaign last week, and on campus for an official visit. There has undoubtedly been heavy mutual interest between the two parties, and, for now, the Illini appear to remain the team to beat.

Illinois Fighting Illini. Coach Brad Underwood. March 14, 2025. TIAA Big Ten Tournament. Maryland Terrapins Vs the Illinois Fighting Illini. Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Credit: Imagin.

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