Illinois Basketball’s Draft Surge: Four Illini Pegged for 2026 NBA Draft

The University of Illinois men’s basketball program is poised for a landmark NBA Draft. Four of its players are now projected to be selected in the 2026 NBA Draft. This news comes from a prominent national mock draft released in December. It highlights a significant talent surge for Head Coach Brad Underwood’s roster.This level of recognition is rare for any college program. It signals Illinois’s growing status as a developer of professional talent. The blend of veteran transfers and a standout freshman has created a uniquely pro-ready team.

Analyzing the 2026 Draft Prospects from Champaign

The projections come from Jonathan Wasserman’s mock draft for Bleacher Report. According to the analysis, four Illini players made the two-round list. This places Illinois among the nation’s elite for producing draftable talent.Freshman Keaton Wagler leads the group as a potential lottery pick. He is projected at No. 18 overall. Veterans Andrej Stojakovic, Kylan Boswell, and Tomislav Ivisic are also included. Their presence provides crucial experience and scoring.This mix is a recipe for both immediate team success and future professional exports. The development of these players under Underwood’s system is now under a national spotlight. NBA scouts are clearly paying close attention to performances in Champaign.

Breaking Down Each Prospect’s Professional Path

Keaton Wagler’s rise has been rapid. The freshman’s efficient scoring and playmaking have boosted his stock immensely. Wasserman compares him to NBA guard Max Christie, though some analysts see greater playmaking potential.Andrej Stojakovic is pegged as a second-round selection. His pro comparison is current NBA forward Rui Hachimura. Like Hachimura, Stojakovic thrives attacking the rim and in the mid-range. Developing a consistent three-point shot will be his key to climbing boards.Kylan Boswell and Tomislav Ivisic round out the projections. Boswell is noted for his defensive tenacity and driving ability. Ivisic’s unique skills as a 7-foot passer and shooter make him an intriguing international prospect.

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Info at your fingertips

Q1: Who is the highest-rated Illinois player in the 2026 mock draft?

Freshman guard Keaton Wagler is the highest-rated Illini. He is projected as the No. 18 overall pick in the latest 2026 NBA Draft mock from Bleacher Report. His all-around game has generated significant buzz.

Q2: How many Illinois players are projected to be drafted?

Four University of Illinois players are currently projected to be selected in the 2026 draft. This includes one freshman and three veteran transfers. It is a notable show of strength for the program.

Q3: What is Andrej Stojakovic’s NBA player comparison?

Andrej Stojakovic has been compared to Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura. The comparison focuses on their similar offensive style around the basket. Both players use physicality and touch to finish effectively.

Q4: Why is Tomislav Ivisic considered an NBA prospect?

Tomislav Ivisic is a prospect due to his rare combination of size and skill. At 7-feet tall, he can shoot from outside and is a gifted passer. These traits are highly valued in the modern NBA game.

Q5: Has Illinois had multiple NBA draft picks recently?

Having four players projected in a single future draft is a new level for Illinois. The program has produced pros like Kofi Cockburn and Ayo Dosunmu recently. This 2026 class, however, represents an unprecedented potential haul.

The 2026 NBA Draft could be a historic night for Illinois basketball. The projected presence of four Illini players underscores the program’s powerful momentum. It marks a new era of high-level talent development in Champaign.