Where Illinois Basketball Stands in ESPN’s Latest “Way Too Early” Top 25

Though Illinois Basketball recently saw high-level talents Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley selected in the NBA Draft to begin their pro careers, Brad Underwood’s crew has strategically rebuilt and revamped his roster, gaining plenty of national buzz surrounding the Illini heading into the upcoming season.

With several non-conference matchups locked in on the schedule, who are already shaping up as potential top-25 showdowns, it’s clear Underwood is confident in the roster he and his staff have assembled following their second-round exit to Kentucky. The Illini are aiming to be battle-tested by the time Big Ten play rolls around — and they have the talent and experience to make a major splash in 2025-26.

11/11 – Texas Tech

11/19 – Alabama (Chicago, IL)

11/28 – UConn (New York, NY)

12/6 – Tennessee (Nashville, TN)

TBA – Mizzou (St. Louis – Braggin Rights)

The million-dollar question is this: With so many new faces and moving parts, can Underwood’s Illini mold it all into something special in Champaign this season?

According to ESPN’s Jeff Borzello (College Basketball Insider, AP Top-25 Voter), Illinois Basketball holds steady at No. 16 in his latest Way-Too-Early Top 25. So, what’s driving that confidence? Among the Illini’s new additions, one player in particular stands out to Borzello as a potential breakout talent — and a player capable of leading Illinois to a big year.

Why Illinois Basketball Lands at No. 16 According to Borzello?

Borzello – Illinois beat North Carolina for Cal transfer Stojakovic, who should assume a go-to role immediately. The former McDonald’s All-American enjoyed a breakout season as a sophomore after transferring from Stanford, averaging 17.9 points for the Golden Bears. Coach Brad Underwood has produced a long line of big wing playmakers and shotmakers, and Stojakovic could be next up in that mold.

Impact newcomer (Per Borzello): Andrej Stojakovic

Mar 11. 2025. Charlotte, NC. USA. California Golden Bears guard Andrej Stojakovic. With the ball in the second half at Spectrum Center. Credit: Bob Donnan. Imagn Images.

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