Why Stefan Vaaks Is Coming Off the Bench for Illinois Basketball

Stefan Vaaks coming off the bench for Illinois basketball through three exhibition games this season, in one word: baffling. Vaaks, even by the sky-high standard of this squad, is really good. It was unexpected to not find him in the starting lineup for the Illini’s first two exhibitions, but his absence from it Wednesday vs. UIC was downright shocking.

All due respect to freshman Lincoln Williams – who, in his five minutes (limited due to an injury), was phenomenal – but Vaaks should be getting the start over Williams.

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That should have been a no-brainer – unless. … Let’s find out from Vaaks himself, who addressed the topic in the postgame press conference after the Illini steamrolled UIC:

Stefan Vaaks on coming off the bench for Illinois

“I don’t care about if I start or if I come off the bench,” Vaaks said. “Actually, I think, for me, I feel like I play better when I come off the bench, to be honest with you.”

Let’s face it: Even if Vaaks loathed the idea of coming off the bench, his answer might have sounded something like that. Yet in this situation, it checks out. He seems to truly prefer – or, at the very least, not mind – serving in a reserve role.

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Every coach will say the same thing: It doesn’t matter who starts the game. It’s all about who finishes it in crunch time. Vaaks figures to be in the final five of any close game for Illinois. And if he actually is more comfortable seeing the game unfold for a bit and then coming in, there’s no reason to tinker with that.

Stefan Vaaks impresses vs. UIC despite tough night from the field

Illinois guard Stefan Vaaks (7) squares up on defense against UIC in the Illini’s 101-66 win over the Flames on Wednesday at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. | University of Illinois

Against the Flames, Vaaks shot the ball poorly. He went just 4-for-10 from the field and 1-for-6 from deep. But he was great. His passing was marvelous. The one-handed cross-court pass from corner to corner with his off-hand…

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Publish date : 2026-11-01 18:13:00

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