As Illinois gears up for the 2025-26 basketball season, the roster has undergone a bit of an overhaul, with nearly half the team consisting of new faces.
To talk about this, I joined Sunny Verma on the Locked On Illini podcast to discuss which newcomer might make the biggest impact on the team.
Sunny and I differed in our choices. While I chose Andrej Stojakovic as the most impactful addition, Sunny made a compelling case for Mihailo Petrovic. If both players bring the possibilities we see to this team, the Illini will be poised for a season where they live in the top 25 or perhaps even in the top 10. Below, I summarize our different perspectives on what the Illini need most.
Andrej Stojakovic: The Go-To Scorer
My pick for the biggest impact newcomer was the highly coveted Cal transfer and exceptional scorer, Andrej Stojakovic. His usage rate at Cal was very high at 28% and in the 95th percentile, according to CBB Analytics.
As the offense's focal point, game in and game out, he carried the scoring load of a team and even broke the ACC tournament record by scoring the highest single-game point total in the conference tournament's history with 37 points in a loss against Stanford.
While Illinois has a deep roster with multiple playmakers, Stojakovic should emerge as the primary scoring option or, at the very least, second. But it's not just his scoring, as he also proved he is ready in the big moments.
Cal needed a bucket with less than a minute left in a clutch moment against Virginia Tech in the ACC tournament. Stojakovic got to the free-throw line and nailed both free throws to send the game to double overtime. His scoring versatility, combined with his ability to draw fouls, addresses a key need of getting to the free-throw line for the Illini.
Overall, Stojakovic’s fit with Illinois is ideal. His usage rate is likely to decrease slightly, allowing him to be more efficient, and with better players around him, his average of nearly two assists per game last season should improve. Offer leadership as a scorer who can also set up his teammates when needed.
His turnover numbers remain a concern, but with a more balanced Illinois roster, those should decrease. But turnover issues are mitigated with his knack for drawing fouls, averaging barely below four per game last season. Stojakovic’s ability to attack the rim and create his own shot will make him a cornerstone of Illinois' success next season.
Mihailo Petrovic: The Underrated Playmaker
Sunny Verma, the host of Locked On Illini, took a different approach, highlighting Mihailo Petrovic as his choice for the most impactful newcomer. Sunny pointed out that Petrovic’s commitment to Illinois came as a surprise, and was overshadowed by Stojakovic’s high-profile visit at the time. However, Sunny argued that Petrovic’s skill set as a true point guard could make him the unsung hero of the 2025-26 season.
At 22 years old, Petrovic might be new to college basketball, but he is a basketball veteran. He brings a level of maturity and experience that sets him apart from most college players. In the AdmiralBet ABA League, he averaged 14.3 points and 7.3 assists per game, with 49.5% field goal shooting. He was an MVP candidate with the second-highest assist average and in the top 10 of the league in points per game.
Sunny’s case for Petrovic centered on his belief that the Illini need a natural point guard to orchestrate their offense. While some fans expect Kylan Boswell to handle the ball, Sunny noted that Boswell struggled as the primary playmaker last season when thrust into that role, and a big reason why is that Boswell was being relied upon as the primary ball handler and defender.
Petrovic, conversely, is a proven passer who can attack the rim and create havoc on defenses, but should not supplant Boswell. Petrovic's quickness and ability to break down defenders make him a perfect fit alongside big men like Tomislav Ivisic and David Mirkovic, who can set screens and space the floor. Sunny even predicted that Petrovic could become the starting point guard within a month or two, not because Boswell will falter, but because Petrovic’s playmaking is unmatched on the roster.
Why Our Choices Differ
While Sunny and I differed in our picks, we both had different thought priorities. I emphasize scoring and star power, as Illinois needs a reliable go-to option in high-pressure situations, so they just revert to three-point shooting. Sunny’s selection of Petrovic emphasizes having a true floor general who can unlock the potential of Illinois’ talented roster.
Both Stojakovic and Petrovic address critical needs for Illinois. Their impact will be felt as long as they mesh well with returning players like Boswell and Ivisic. Stojakovic brings that scoring punch, while Petrovic gives the team a steady hand and much-needed playmaking ability. As the season approaches, Illini fans have plenty to be excited about, and the debate over which newcomer will shine brightest is just beginning.