Andrej Stojakovic, a star player for the Illinois Fighting Illini, has entered the 2026 NBA Draft while retaining his college eligibility. This move comes as no surprise, given Stojakovic's status as a former five-star recruit and the son of an NBA star. The early entry deadline for the draft was on Friday at 11:59 p.m. ET, so Stojakovic must have declared before then.
Stojakovic's decision to declare for the draft is a strategic one. It allows him to gather feedback from NBA teams, which he can use to improve his game and potentially boost his stock for the draft. While he is not currently projected as a draft pick, Stojakovic possesses the physical attributes and skills that NBA teams look for. He is a dominant downhill threat, puts constant pressure on the rim, and can be an impactful defensive player. However, his future in the draft remains uncertain.
The key to Stojakovic's success lies in his ability to improve as a shooter, passer, and defender. If he can show significant growth in these areas during his senior season at Illinois, he could elevate himself into a surefire draft selection, especially in a weaker 2027 draft class. The decision to declare for the draft, despite his earlier announcement of returning to Illinois, suggests that Stojakovic is exploring all options and may not be fully committed to the draft process.
The next steps for Stojakovic include the NBA's early entry withdrawal deadline on May 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET, giving him almost a month to make a final decision. The NBA Combine, which will take place from May 10-May 17 in Chicago, is a significant opportunity for players to showcase their skills. If Stojakovic doesn't receive an invitation to the NBA Combine, he could be invited to the NBA G League Combine, which could lead to further opportunities.
In my opinion, Stojakovic's decision to declare for the draft while maintaining his college eligibility is a calculated move. It allows him to explore his NBA potential while still having the option to return to Illinois and continue his college career. The process of declaring for the draft provides valuable feedback and experience, which can only benefit his future in the sport. As a former five-star recruit, Stojakovic has the talent and potential to make a significant impact in the NBA, but it remains to be seen if he will ultimately pursue this path.
