Where Andrej Stojakovic Falls in Yahoo’s Latest NBA Mock Draft

Yahoo Sports Senior NBA Analyst Kevin O’Connor’s latest NBA mock draft offers yet another interesting perspective in the massive decision looming for Andrej Stojakovic, as the Illinois senior weighs a return to Champaign for one final season, as well as a jump to the NBA. According to Yahoo’s newest projection, Stojakovic comes off the board late in the second round at No. 54 overall to Steve Kerr and the Golden State Warriors.

O’Connor on Why Andrej Would Go Late Second-Round to Golden State

In his projection breakdown of Andrej, O’Connor noted: “Stojaković is the son of three-time NBA All-Star and 2011 champion Peja Stojaković, and he certainly has professional DNA with his slick footwork and feel for the game. That said, unlike his father, he shockingly has a clunky jumper that needs a lot of seasoning for him to thrive at the next level.”

Of course, the late second-round evaluation places Stojakovic in a familiar crossroads in today’s era of college athletics. Return to Illinois for one more season with guaranteed, life-changing NIL money and the opportunity to boost his draft stock, while also accepting the risks that come with another college season. Or, leap now toward the NBA, where the long-term upside may be greater, but the path is far less certain as a projected late second-round pick.

By all indications, Stojakovic is doing exactly what he should be doing by gathering feedback, testing the process, and allowing Illinois to push as hard as possible on the NIL front. In today’s era of college athletics, it’s simply smart business.

Still, based on recent projections, I would fully expect Andrej Stojakovic to return to Champaign for a handsomely paid senior season. If that happens, it could serve as the cherry on top of what has already been a massive offseason retention win for the Illini staff.

Illinois Basketball. Iowa. Andrej Stojakovic. No. 2. Photo Credit: David Pollak, Armchair Illini.

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