CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Keaton Wagler continues to add to a historic freshman season, earning second-team All-American honors from the Associated Press.
Wagler is the first freshman in program history to be named an AP All-American and becomes the 22nd player overall from the Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball to receive the recognition. He is also the fifth AP All-American in the last six seasons under head coach Brad Underwood.
The standout guard has averaged 17.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, placing him among the top freshmen in the nation. He is one of only three freshmen nationally averaging at least 17 points, 4.5 rebounds, and four assists.
Wagler has also broken Illinois’ freshman scoring record with 573 points and has scored in double figures in 29 games this season, including nine 20-point performances. His season was highlighted by a 46-point outing against Purdue, earning him National Player of the Week honors.
In addition to his AP recognition, Wagler has earned multiple national honors, including second-team All-American selections from The Sporting News and Field of 68, and first-team recognition from Bleacher Report. He was also named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a first-team All-Big Ten selection.