CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Andrej Stojakovic will return to Illinois for his senior season after officially withdrawing from the NBA Draft on Wednesday, giving the Fighting Illini another key piece from last year’s Final Four team.
The 6-foot-7 wing announced his decision on the final day college players could withdraw from the draft and maintain NCAA eligibility. Stojakovic had participated in the NBA Combine earlier this month in Chicago after initially declaring for the draft while also leaving open the possibility of returning to Champaign.
His decision solidifies what is expected to be one of the strongest rosters in the country entering the 2026-27 season.
Stojakovic averaged 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season while emerging as one of Illinois’ most reliable two-way players during the team’s NCAA Tournament run. He elevated his play in March, averaging nearly 14 points per game during the Illini’s five tournament contests while helping lead the program to the Final Four.
Illinois now returns five of its top eight scorers from last season, including David Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic, Zvonimir Ivisic and Jake Davis. The Illini also added several highly regarded newcomers through recruiting and the transfer portal.
Stojakovic said another season in college gives him an opportunity to continue improving his overall game before making the jump to the professional level.
Despite shooting a career-low 24.4 percent from three-point range last season, Stojakovic improved in several other areas, including efficiency around the basket, rebounding and defense. Coaches and analysts pointed to his defensive performance during Illinois’ postseason run as a major reason for the team’s success.
Stojakovic said improving his shooting consistency and decision-making remain major goals heading into next season.