Illinois' Andrej Stojakovic Shines in Final Four Debut

The son of NBA great Peja Stojakovic is making a name for himself on the biggest stage.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the movements and actions of a basketball player on the court, with the player's silhouette and jersey number visible amidst the fragmented shapes and planes, capturing the raw energy and intensity of the Final Four.Andrej Stojakovic's dynamic performance in the Final Four has showcased his versatility and helped power Illinois' run to the national championship game.Carmichael Today

In his first Final Four appearance, Illinois' Andrej Stojakovic is showing he's more than just the son of NBA star Peja Stojakovic. The 6-7 wing has averaged 17 points per game in the NCAA Tournament, shooting 65.5% from the field and 80% from the free throw line, while also playing strong defense. Stojakovic transferred to Illinois after his freshman season at Stanford, and has been a key contributor to the Illini's run to their first Final Four in 21 years.

Why it matters

Stojakovic's breakout performance in the NCAA Tournament has shown that he is more than just living in his father's shadow. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has been crucial for an Illinois team that is seeking its first national championship since 2005.

The details

After missing three games earlier in the season due to an ankle injury, Stojakovic has found his groove in the NCAA Tournament. He is averaging 17 points per game while shooting 65.5% from the field and 80% from the free throw line. Stojakovic has also played excellent defense, guarding the opposing team's top perimeter threats. His size and skill set have been a perfect fit for Illinois' system under head coach Brad Underwood.

  • Stojakovic transferred to Illinois after his freshman season at Stanford.
  • He missed three games earlier this season due to an ankle injury.
  • Stojakovic is averaging 17 points per game in the NCAA Tournament.

The players

Andrej Stojakovic

A 6-7 wing player for the Illinois Fighting Illini, and the son of former NBA star Peja Stojakovic.

Peja Stojakovic

Andrej's father, who played in the NBA from 1998 to 2011, made three All-Star teams, and won a championship with the Dallas Mavericks.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini, who has led the team to its first Final Four appearance in 21 years.

Orlando Antigua

The associate head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini, who has praised Andrej Stojakovic's defensive impact and ability to get to the free throw line.

Keaton Wagler

The freshman point guard for the Illinois Fighting Illini, who has been another key contributor to the team's NCAA Tournament run.

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What they’re saying

“Andrej's a great punch for us. Where he's been phenomenal for us is being able to get downhill, get to the free throw line and becoming a more rounded player defensively. He's been phenomenal defensively.”

— Orlando Antigua, Associate Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini

“I think he's as healthy as he's been. I also think he's one of the great listeners, and I mean that in a positive way. We missed seven weeks with him. The first day of school he hurts his knee, misses seven weeks and misses all those times that I really wanted to coach him hard and demand him in practice and get him right and get his mentality right.”

— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini

“My teammates trust me to take any shot. They see how much work we put in as a team. No matter what kind of shot it is, they have faith in me making it. A lot of the time, it's an advantage for me to get in the paint, and I take advantage of it.”

— Andrej Stojakovic

What’s next

Stojakovic and the Illinois Fighting Illini will face the winner of the other Final Four matchup in the national championship game on Monday, April 7th.

The takeaway

Andrej Stojakovic has emerged as a key contributor for Illinois in the NCAA Tournament, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways has been crucial for an Illini team seeking its first national title in over 15 years, and has shown that he is more than just the son of a famous NBA player.