We are still in the first round of the NBA Draft, and the Illinois basketball team has another player heading to The Association.
Earlier in the first round, the Miami Heat selected Kasparas Jakucionis. He is going to be a huge help to that franchise and someone who could see minutes early on in his career.
It is now Will Riley’s turn. With pick No. 21 in the first round, the Utah Jazz selected the Illini forward. Riley is now living out his dream of playing in the NBA, and he is going to have a chance to shine brightly.
With the 21st pick of the NBA Draft the @utahjazz select Will Riley (@WillRiley_7)!
— NBA Draft (@NBADraft) June 26, 2025
2025 #NBADraft presented by State Farm LIVE on ABC & ESPN!
Much like Jakucionis, Riley spent one season in Champaign. While a slow start hindered his season, Riley came on strong toward the end of his freshman year. He ended up averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.
On top of the great numbers and rising star, Riley did earn some accolades in his lone year with the Illini. He won the Big Ten 6th Man of the Year award.
Positives that Will Riley brings to the Utah Jazz
You are getting a sharply rising star with the pick of Riley. He is a kid who reclassified and should only be a freshman in college this upcoming season.
Riley has so much potential, and you could see it at Illinois. I would argue the biggest asset he brings to the table is his length. Riley’s wingspan will cause problems for opposing offenses.
I also like Riley’s ability to shoot the ball. He isn’t afraid to take a jumper from anywhere on the floor. He can shoot over a lot of defenders with his 6-foot-8 size, too. This was a great draft pick.
Negatives that Will Riley brings to the Utah Jazz
When you get selected in the first round, you are an elite player. There aren’t a ton of issues with Riley’s game.
I would say the thing that sticks out the most is that he needs to work on his ball handling. He clearly has the ability to handle the ball, but he struggled at times going through traffic and dribbling. The NBA will eat him up if he struggles like that at the next level.
I also want to see his three-point shooting improve. Riley hit some big shots last season, but he is better than his 32.6% for the year. If he can bring that up to 35% or higher, Riley has a long career in the NBA.