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Illinois Freshman G Keaton Wagler to Declare for NBA Draft

On Saturday, Illinois freshman guard Keaton Wagler announced he is declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft. The consensus All-American led the Fighting Illini to their first Final Four since 2005.
Wagler arrived at Illinois as a lightly recruited prospect before winning the Jerry West Award and Big Ten Freshman of the Year. He set program freshman records with 663 total points and 87 3-pointers while starting all 37 games.
Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report noted that while physical limitations exist, Wagler's "potent shotmaking" and "quick processing" make him a valuable prospect. He is widely projected as a top-10 NBA Draft pick.
Head coach Brad Underwood expressed pride in Wagler's departure, stating, "He found success and that makes you smile." Illinois must now rebuild its backcourt after losing Wagler and guard Kylan Boswell.
Illinois will honor Wagler's legacy by lifting his jersey to the rafters of the State Farm Center. The standout guard became the first Illinois freshman to earn consensus All-America accolades.

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Illinois Men's Basketball: Wagler to the NBA; other players transferring in and out - IPM Newsroom

Illinois Newsroom - Wagler thanked the city of Champaign and the university for all the support this season. The post Illinois Men’s Basketball: Wagler to the NBA; other players transferring in and out appeared first on IPM Newsroom.

17 hours ago

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Chicago Tribune

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College basketball roster tracker: Illinois star Keaton Wagler declares for the NBA draft

The Tribune is tracking the major roster additions, subtractions and announcements of local teams after the college basketball transfer portal opened.

2 days ago·Chicago, United States

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WMBD

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Wagler declares for NBA draft, Jaquan Johnson announces transfer to Iowa St.

PEORIA, Il. (WMBD) - While spring sports are now in full swing, college basketball still made waves in Central Illinois on Saturday. Illini star freshman guard Keaton Wagler declared for the NBA Draft after an incredibly successful campaign. Wagler was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and helped lead the Illini to the Final [...]

2 days ago·Peoria, United States

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