Illinois Targets Transfer Portal Guard Stefan Vaaks to Replace Keaton Wagler

Vaaks, a 6-foot-7 guard from Estonia, could be the next star to join the Illini after Keaton Wagler's departure.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives, conveying the dynamic and competitive nature of the transfer portal process.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes transfer portal battle for Illinois' next star guard.Today in Detroit

The Illinois basketball program is looking to the transfer portal to find a replacement for star guard Keaton Wagler, who had a legendary one-season stint with the Illini. One name that has emerged as a top target is Providence freshman Stefan Vaaks, a 6-foot-7 guard from Estonia who averaged 15.8 points and 3.2 assists per game in his lone season with the Friars.

Why it matters

Filling the void left by Wagler's departure is a top priority for Illinois, as he was a dominant force who captivated the campus and fan base. Vaaks' size, scoring ability, and facilitating skills make him an intriguing option to step into a similar role and continue the Illini's momentum.

The details

Vaaks shot 35% from 3-point range and had a 31% usage rate as the focal point of Providence's offense last season. His skill set, including a quick release and ability to excel in catch-and-shoot situations, aligns well with Illinois head coach Brad Underwood's system. If the Illini can also land John Blackwell from the transfer portal, it would give them two talented guards who can score, space the floor, and create opportunities for their teammates.

  • Vaaks entered the transfer portal in March 2026 after his freshman season at Providence.
  • Illinois has been actively recruiting Vaaks and fellow transfer target John Blackwell in the current offseason.

The players

Stefan Vaaks

A 6-foot-7 guard from Estonia who averaged 15.8 points and 3.2 assists per game as a freshman at Providence last season.

Keaton Wagler

A former star guard for Illinois who had a legendary one-season stint with the Illini before departing, leaving a void the program is now looking to fill.

John Blackwell

Another transfer portal target for Illinois who, along with Vaaks, could help replace Wagler's production and impact.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the Illinois basketball program, who is leading the effort to find a suitable replacement for Keaton Wagler.

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What’s next

Illinois will continue to aggressively recruit Stefan Vaaks and John Blackwell in the transfer portal, hoping to land both players to help fill the void left by Keaton Wagler's departure.

The takeaway

Illinois is recruiting at a high level, targeting top transfer portal talent like Vaaks and Blackwell to maintain their momentum and compete with the nation's elite programs. If they can land these two guards, it would give the Illini a formidable backcourt to build around.