Illinois Guard Keaton Wagler Declares for 2026 NBA Draft

Freshman star led Illini to Final Four after record-setting season

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:53pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting the basketball skills and impact of Illinois guard Keaton Wagler, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the team's colors of royal blue, orange, and white.Keaton Wagler's record-setting freshman season and Final Four run with Illinois are captured in a cubist, geometric deconstruction of his dynamic on-court presence.Champaign Today

Illinois guard Keaton Wagler, who had a historic freshman season that included leading the Illini to the Final Four, announced on Instagram that he will be declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft.

Why it matters

Wagler's decision to turn pro after just one season in college is a significant development, as he was one of the breakout stars of the 2025-26 season and his departure will leave a major hole in the Illinois roster for next year.

The details

Wagler set numerous Illinois freshman records this past season, including total points (663), scoring average (17.9 ppg), 20-point games (11), field goals (202), three-pointers (87), free throws (172), starts (37), minutes (1,254) and wins (28). He was named a consensus All-American and won the Jerry West Award as the nation's top shooting guard.

  • Wagler announced his decision to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft on April 12, 2026.
  • He led Illinois to the Final Four earlier this month, the program's first trip to the national semifinals in 21 years.

The players

Keaton Wagler

A freshman guard at the University of Illinois who had a historic season, setting numerous program records and leading the Illini to the Final Four.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the University of Illinois men's basketball team, who helped develop Wagler into a star player.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This past year has been the journey of a lifetime. I never could have imagined what this season had in store for us. Our Final Four run is something I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

— Keaton Wagler

“The Illini fans are the best in the world. I'll never forget the feeling of hearing State Farm Center go crazy for the kid from Shawnee, Kansas.”

— Keaton Wagler

“Thank you to Coach Underwood and the entire Illinois staff for believing in me when others did not.”

— Keaton Wagler

What’s next

Wagler will now begin the process of preparing for the 2026 NBA Draft, where he is expected to be a high first-round pick after his standout freshman season.

The takeaway

Wagler's decision to turn pro after just one year in college is a testament to his immense talent and potential, and his departure will leave a major void for Illinois next season. However, his historic freshman campaign and leading the Illini to the Final Four will cement his legacy as one of the program's all-time greats.