Why Andrej Stojakovic is primed for a major junior season with the Illini

Illinois Basketball is building toward what could be a defining season under Brad Underwood in the 8th year of his tenure in Champaign.

The 2025-26 Illini are the product of an active offseason for the Illini staff—one that perfectly blends continuity with impact additions from across the globe, in addition to the transfer portal. Returning core pieces like Kylan Boswell, Tomislav Ivisic, Ty Rodgers, and Ben Humrichous provide the history and chemistry needed to lead with experience, while a wave of new talent finishes off the final touches on a roster that the staff is confident can win at a very high level.

Questions still remain, of course, and it’s uncertain whether the mix of old and new will gel into a cohesive unit. However, make no mistake — Illinois Basketball has the talent and potential in place for a special run in 2025-26.

It’s not yet clear who will step up as the stars of this team, but there are some solid candidates who could emerge as difference-makers for this team. With a revamped roster full of capable scorers and experienced leaders, it’s not yet clear who will emerge as “the guy” in crunch time. I believe there are other qualifications aside from scoring…

Illinois. Fighting Illini. Brad Underwood watches the action. Friday, March 14. 2025. Big Ten Tournament. Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Indianapolis.

Who Will Be “The Guy” for Illinois Basketball in 2025

Andrej Stojakovic is ready to be a part of winning at the high-major level.

The former McDonald’s All-American and high-profile transfer was one of the most coveted names in the portal. After averaging 17.9 points per game in the ACC on a struggling Cal team, Andrej Stojakovic brings instant credibility and offensive firepower to an Illini team projected to do big things next season. His numbers may dip slightly on a deeper and more talented roster, but playing with better teammates should also allow for more efficient, high-quality opportunities for impactful production.

Stojakovic will be looked at as the primary wing scorer in Underwood’s system. While he needs to improve from deep (31.8% from 3-point range in 2024-24), his ability to create off the bounce, create quality shots, and lead in key moments under pressure sets him apart as a guy with major potential to be a top playmaker. He’s been “the guy” before—and that experience matters. With some work to his catch-and-shoot game, Andrej could be in for an All-Big Ten season ahead,

In fact, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony reported that Underwood’s staff views Stojakovic as “the missing piece to a national championship team.” That’s a lofty claim, but one that speaks to just how much Illinois believes in its new star.

The path to March is long, but if this team reaches its ceiling, Andrej Stojakovic could be the one leading the way as their go-to guy.

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