Why Hasn’t Illinois’ Andrej Stojakovic Announced 2026-27 Plans – And Will He Return?

On Wednesday night, when Illinois’ Jake Davis, Tomislav Ivisic and Zvonimir Ivisic announced their return to the program for the 2025-26 season (rejoining forces with David Mirkovic), the instant reaction from Illini Nation was elation. But that was followed by immediate concern.

Sure, four key Illini players may have pledged their allegiance to #TheRetention, but that also meant that one hadn’t: Andrej Stojakovic. Illinois’ second-leading scorer in 2025-26, Stojakovic is arguably the most integral player (Mirkovic being the other) in determining the Illini’s offseason success.

Advertisement

If Illinois manages to keep Stojakovic, the ceiling is a national championship (not to mention a sky-high floor). If not, there will be some retooling necessary via the transfer portal to build another Final Four contender.

So what’s the holdup for Stojakovic?

Why has Illinois’ Andrej Stojakovic not announced 2026-27 status yet

Mar 28, 2026; Houston, TX, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) controls the ball against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Tate Sage (24) in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The transfer portal window closes on April 21, but that’s unlikely to be a deciding factor for Stojakovic, who spoke in depth about the off-court bond he and his teammates share time and again (as did his teammates and Illini coach Brad Underwood). With the majority of the core returning, it would be a shock to see Stojakovic leave through the portal – especially when the basketball fit is ideal and the Illini appear poised for another deep run.

Advertisement

Another thought is NIL. Are Illinois and Stojakovic trying to find a fair number – and is it affected by any ongoing transfer-portal rumblings that may affect the Illini’s NIL funds? Again, it’s possible – but highly unlikely. Illinois is certainly making Stojakovic a priority, and the…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-hasnt-illinois-andrej-stojakovic-195413841.html

Author :

Publish date : 2026-04-16 19:54:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.