Illini Land Stojakovic! Andrej Joins Fighting Illini in Blockbuster Transfer

In a move that's set to electrify the Illinois basketball fan base, Andrej Stojakovic, the highly-touted son of NBA legend Peja Stojakovic, has officially committed to the Fighting Illini through the transfer portal. This wasn't just any transfer; it was a swift, decisive decision that underscores Illinois's aggressive approach to building a powerhouse roster under Coach Brad Underwood.

Stojakovic, a 6-foot-7 wing, arrives in Champaign after spending his freshman season with the Stanford Cardinal.

While his time in Palo Alto didn't quite live up to the lofty expectations he carried as a five-star prospect and the No. 26 overall recruit in the 2023 class, the talent and potential remain undeniable. At Stanford, he averaged 7.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, shooting 32.7% from the field and 23.3% from beyond the arc.

These numbers, while modest, don't tell the full story of a player with a smooth shooting stroke, excellent size, and a high basketball IQ.

For the Illini, Stojakovic's commitment addresses critical needs. Illinois has been actively seeking versatile wings who can stretch the floor with their shooting and contribute on both ends of the court.

Andrej brings precisely that. His reputation as a shooter, combined with his athleticism and developing all-around game, makes him an exciting prospect to integrate into Underwood's system. The hope is that a change of scenery, a new system, and a fresh start will unlock the immense potential that made him such a coveted high school recruit.

The recruitment process was rapid, with Illinois making Stojakovic a top priority as soon as he entered the portal.

This quick turnaround highlights the strong relationship already established between Stojakovic and the Illinois coaching staff, especially Coach Underwood, who had previously recruited Andrej out of high school. That familiarity undoubtedly played a significant role in his decision, signaling a trust in the program's vision for his development.

Andrej Stojakovic's arrival further strengthens an already promising transfer class for the Illini.

He joins Jake Davis, a sharpshooter from Mercer, and Carey Booth, a promising forward from Notre Dame, as key additions looking to make an immediate impact. These new faces are expected to complement Illinois's returning talent, creating a dynamic and deeper roster poised for another strong run in the Big Ten and beyond.

Illini fans can now eagerly anticipate watching Stojakovic don the orange and blue.

With his pedigree, talent, and the unwavering support of a passionate fan base, Andrej is poised to embark on a compelling new chapter in his collegiate career, aiming to help lead Illinois to new heights.