The Illinois basketball team has secured a major commitment with the addition of California transfer portal wing Andrej Stojakovic, a former McDonald’s All-American and son of NBA sharpshooter Peja Stojakovic.
Stojakovic is a 6-foot-7 wing, ranked as the No. 35 transfer prospect by 247Sports and the No. 26 transfer prospect by On3. He brings a dynamic scoring presence to a roster poised to contend in the Big Ten. Stojakovic’s commitment comes alongside other key additions this offseason like Zvonimir Ivisic, David Mirkovic, and Mihailo Petrovic.
Projected Illinois basketball lineup with the addition of Andrej Stojakovic
Starting No. 1 Guard: Mihailo Petrovic (Point Guard)
Petrovic, a natural distributor, addresses Illinois’ need for a steady ball-handler. His ability to make smart decisions with the ball and facilitate in the halfcourt alleviates playmaking pressure from the backcourt. His vision and composure make him a perfect fit to run the offense. Additionally, he complements a big like Tomislav Ivisic, who facilitates at the top of the key well. Petrovic's quick burst and action off the ball will complement this lineup well.
Starting No. 2 Guard: Kylan Boswell (Shooting Guard)
Boswell, a combo guard, showed late-season strides in on-ball productivity last year. While primarily a secondary action creator, his versatility complements Petrovic. Boswell’s experience and ability to handle secondary playmaking duties add depth to the guard rotation. Plus, he would be the team's primary lockdown defender. Having the primary ball handler role and the primary defender role separate bodes well for the construction of this Illini roster.
Starting No. 3 Wing: Andrej Stojakovic (Small Forward)
Stojakovic is the centerpiece of this lineup. He is used to being a high-usage scorer, as he averaged 17.9 points per game at Cal. However, he’s not been the pure shooter (31.8% from three) his father was, but excels at creating off the dribble, attacking the rim (54.8% at the rim), and posting up smaller guards. His size, skill, and defensive length (3.7% block rate) make him a matchup nightmare. If he improves his three-point efficiency, Illinois could soar.
Starting No. 4 Forward: David Mirkovic (Power Forward)
Mirkovic, a Montenegrin prospect, brings size and versatility to the frontcourt. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute on both ends pairs well with the Illini’s bigs, creating space for Stojakovic and Petrovic to operate. There are some scenarios where Zvonimir Ivisic could start at the No. 4 next season, but Mirkovic's spacing is too valuable to pass up even if Stojakovic finds his stroke next year.
Starting No. 5 Center: Tomislav Ivisic (Center)
The skilled big man coming back for his second year is a lock to start, as he will be expected to anchor the paint with his scoring and playmaking. His presence in the halfcourt reduces the need for guards to over-facilitate, allowing Petrovic and Boswell to focus on their strengths. His twin, Zvonimir Ivisic, provides a strong backup option.
Key Reserves: Zvonimir Ivisic (C), Ben Humrichous (F), Ty Rodgers (G), Jake Davis (F), and freshman Brandon Lee (G).
With Stojakovic’s scoring prowess, Petrovic’s playmaking, and a balanced supporting cast, Illinois is primed for a deep NCAA Tournament run, and possibly even a Big Ten championship.