The University of Illinois has made a significant addition this offseason with the arrival of 6-foot-7 guard Andrej Stojakovic from Cal. As expectations mount, Scott Richey of Illinois and Jeff Faraudo of Cal Bears on SI have discussed what makes Stojakovic such an intriguing player. During his time at Cal, he displayed marked improvements in offensive confidence and aggression compared to his freshman year at Stanford. Despite occasional inconsistencies, his potential remains high as a developing athlete who could contribute significantly to a Top 25 team aiming for NCAA tournament success.
Stojakovic's journey through college basketball has seen him evolve into a more decisive offensive force. After joining Cal, he demonstrated increased assertiveness, particularly towards the end of last season. His ability to drive to the basket resulted in frequent trips to the free-throw line, surpassing previous performances. While there were moments where he faded into the background during games, this is not uncommon for young players navigating their early collegiate years. Observers anticipated that he would elevate his scoring capabilities at Cal, given the team's reliance on his contributions.
His three-point shooting consistency still presents challenges, fluctuating significantly throughout the season. However, his final two games showcased a promising resurgence, converting seven out of thirteen attempts. This improvement came after a stretch where he managed only a 19 percent conversion rate over twelve games. Entering the transfer portal again did not come as a surprise to many within the college basketball community. The allure of playing for a competitive program like Illinois, coupled with financial incentives, likely played pivotal roles in his decision-making process.
Illinois stands to gain a player with immense untapped potential. Although physically still under development, Stojakovic possesses remarkable skills and basketball intelligence. His capacity for growth extends beyond scoring; enhancing his playmaking abilities represents another avenue for advancement. With no signs of selfishness in his game, combined with his height advantage, Stojakovic shows promise in creating opportunities even when faced with defensive pressure.
Beyond mere scoring prowess, Stojakovic holds the potential to become a versatile contributor on the court. As he continues refining his physical strength and expanding his skill set, his role within Illinois' lineup may grow increasingly multifaceted. Joining a program with aspirations of national prominence offers him a platform to showcase his talents and enhance his prospects for future professional endeavors in the NBA.