June 27, 2026, 4:19 p.m. ET

Former Illinois guard Keaton Wagler is set to join the LA Clippers, and the No. 5 overall pick believes he’ll be a seamless fit next to the likes of Kawhi Leonard, Darius Garland and the rest of the roster.

Wagler became the first Illini freshman to be named a consensus All-American, averaging 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists while shooting 39.7% from 3-point range. He set numerous freshman program records, including points (663), field goals (202) and 3s (87).

The 6-foot-6 Wagler had a monumental rise up draft boards throughout the year after establishing himself as a dynamic player, leading the Illini to the Final Four. He credited his countless hours in the gym for propelling him to be a high lottery pick.

“I think the biggest thing that got me here was just the hard work that I put in,” Keaton said. “I think getting the trust from my teammates and coaches, proving myself throughout the whole year and showing everyone just how good a player I am. Just continuing to keep my head down and work, no matter good game or bad game — just staying level-headed throughout the whole season.”

Wagler is the first player in franchise history to be taken with the fifth pick and the highest player drafted since Blake Griffin (2009, No. 1). He is Illinois’ third top-10 pick in the draft era (1966), joining Kendall Gill (1990, No. 5) and Deron Williams (2005, No. 3).

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The 19-year-old is highly touted because of his shooting, feel and ability to convert difficult finishes at the rim. The team was also drawn to his competitiveness and performance during his predraft workout, which came against Kingston Flemings.

Wagler is eager to get to work with the team and learn from his veteran teammates. He can see a natural fit with the group and is ready to help the team on and off the court.

“I think I’m going to bring a lot of versatility on the floor, being able to play on and off the ball, alongside Garland,” Wagler said. “When he has the ball in his hands, being ready to space and shoot the ball. When I have the ball in my hands, just being aggressive to make plays for myself and others.”