After days of uncertainty and rising speculation surrounding Illinois\u2019 roster, Andrej Stojakovic delivered a clear answer Friday.<\/p>\n
In a short but attention-grabbing Instagram video <\/a>captioned \u201cDid I make you nervous?\u201d and ending with the message \u201cI\u2019m back,\u201d Stojakovic confirmed he will return to Illinois for the 2026-27 season.<\/p>\n The announcement comes at a critical time for the program as it looks to build continuity following a strong postseason run. With multiple contributors weighing NBA<\/a> Draft and transfer decisions, Stojakovic\u2019s return provides stability and a proven scoring option for a team with rising expectations and legitimate Big Ten<\/a> title aspirations heading into next season.<\/p>\n Late-Season Surge Changed Outlook<\/p>\n Stojakovic\u2019s decision carries added significance when viewed through the lens of how his season evolved.<\/p>\n During the regular season, there were stretches where consistency and shot selection raised questions. Injuries also impacted his rhythm, limiting his overall production at times. Even so, he still finished the year averaging 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, showing flashes of the offensive upside that made him a key addition.<\/p>\n That potential fully materialized in March. Stojakovic emerged as one of Illinois\u2019 most impactful players during the NCAA Tournament, averaging 13.8 points per game while thriving in a sixth-man role. His ability to attack the rim and create offense gave Illinois a different dimension against tournament opponents.<\/p>\n Role Expected To Expand In 2026-27<\/p>\n With his return now official, Stojakovic\u2019s role is expected to shift significantly.<\/p>\n After thriving off the bench late in the season, he is projected to move into a starting role next year. That transition aligns with both his late-season performance and Illinois\u2019 broader roster construction, which continues to prioritize experienced, versatile scoring options.<\/p>\n His return also strengthens a core that has seen multiple key contributors opt to come back, positioning Illinois as a team with continuity rather than a full reset. That matters in a college basketball landscape where roster turnover has become the norm.<\/p>\n Illinois Keeps Key Piece For Next Season<\/p>\n For Illinois, this decision is less about adding a player and more about retaining one of its most important pieces.<\/p>\n Stojakovic\u2019s combination of size, scoring ability, and postseason experience makes him a central figure in the team\u2019s outlook heading into next season. His return ensures Illinois keeps a player who already proved he can perform in high-pressure moments.<\/p>\n More importantly, it shows confidence in the program\u2019s direction. At a time when many players are exploring transfer or draft options, Illinois secured a commitment from a player who could have tested multiple paths.<\/p>\n That outcome gives the program even more momentum after a trip to the Final Four and a contender to be one of the top teams in the country heading into the 2026-27 season.<\/p>\n Related: Will Wade, LSU Dealt Unfortunate Transfer Portal News on Friday<\/a><\/p>\n Related: Illinois Pushing for $1.5 Million Guard in College Basketball Transfer Portal<\/a><\/p>\n This story was originally published by Athlon Sports<\/a> on Apr 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the College<\/a> section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.<\/a><\/p>\n