CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Junior wing Andrej Stojaković announced Friday that he will return to Illinois for his senior season, giving the Illini a major boost following their recent Final Four run. The decision, shared on Instagram, confirms that one of the team’s top scorers and most versatile contributors will remain in Champaign for another year.
Stojaković transferred to Illinois last April after spending time at three different programs during his first three college seasons. Despite early setbacks, including a knee injury and a high ankle sprain in February, he emerged as a reliable scoring option and a key part of the Illini rotation.
He finished the 2025–26 season averaging 13.5 points per game while shooting 50% from the field and over 80% from the free-throw line, ranking as the team’s second-leading scorer. Coaches also emphasized his growth on the defensive end, where he took on tougher assignments and contributed as a rebounder.
Stojakovic joins freshman David Mirkovic, who announced his return Wednesday afternoon, and juniors Tomislav Ivisic, Zvonimir Ivisic, and Jake Davis, who announced their return Wednesday evening.
During the NCAA tournament run, Stojaković adapted to a reduced role off the bench, a move the coaching staff credited as important to the team’s success. He also finished the season with 4.5 rebounds per game, including strong production on both the offensive and defensive glass.
Looking ahead, Stojaković is expected to take on an even larger offensive role next season, particularly with key departures from the roster.
