Andrej Stojaković didn’t choose the easy path—he chose the one with the greatest challenge and highest reward. By committing to Illinois, he aligned himself with a team that shares his ultimate goal: winning a national championship
With his skills, experience, and burning desire to win, Stojaković could be the catalyst that pushes the Illini over the edge. In an era of quick decisions and constant movement, this move feels intentional, strategic, and potentially historic.
The countdown to tip-off has begun, and all eyes will be on Champaign. If Stojaković has his way, Illinois won’t just make noise in March—they’ll make history.
In just a few short years, Andrej Stojaković has experienced the highs and lows of college basketball.
But instead of becoming jaded, he has become more focused. His transfer to Illinois isn’t just about changing teams—it’s about changing outcomes.
“I wanted to be on that stage,” he said. And now, with a new opportunity under Brad Underwood’s guidance, he’ll have that chance.
What comes next is unwritten, but one thing is certain: Andrej Stojaković is no longer content to watch from the sidelines. He’s ready to play—and win—on the biggest stage college basketball has to offer.
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Table of Contents
Andrej Stojaković’s Journey: A Quest for Competitive Fulfillment
Andrej Stojaković’s recent transfer to Illinois marks a significant chapter in a young career that’s already been filled with growth, introspection, and tough decisions.1
In his appearance on The SchuZ Show, the former Stanford and Cal standout opened up about the reasons behind his move, citing competitive drive, missed opportunities, and a yearning to be a part of something bigger.
His decision, as he emphasized, was rooted not in financial incentives, but in a desire to compete at the highest level and fulfill untapped potential.
Early College Days: A Tale of Two Stops
Stojaković’s collegiate journey began with much fanfare. As the son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković and a highly touted recruit, expectations followed him from the moment he stepped onto a college campus.
His initial stop was Stanford, where flashes of brilliance were occasionally overshadowed by team struggles and limited exposure on the national stage.
A brief stint at Cal followed, offering a change of scenery but not the postseason opportunities he craved.
— Andrej Stojaković (@AndrejSto2) April 28, 2025
Both programs, despite their academic prestige and promising rosters, fell short in reaching the NCAA Tournament during his time there.
For a player as competitive and driven as Stojaković, watching from the sidelines while peers thrived on the March Madness stage was a tough pill to swallow.
Illinois: A New Opportunity, Not a New Paycheck
In an era where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals dominate college sports headlines, many would assume that a player of Stojaković’s caliber may have chosen Illinois for financial reasons. However, he was quick to debunk that notion during his interview.
“I didn’t choose Illinois because they were the highest bidder,” he stated plainly. “I chose them because that’s who I felt was going to give me a role and help me win.”
This sentiment reveals much about Stojaković’s mindset. Rather than chasing dollars, he’s chasing wins—seeking a place where he can both grow and contribute meaningfully.
Andrej Stojaković: Fueling a Healthy Envy
Perhaps the most telling moment in his interview was when he described the “healthy envy” he felt watching his peers excel in the NCAA Tournament.2
“Seeing players in my class have success in the tournament is what I really was looking for,” Stojaković said. “I was envious of that. And I think it was a healthy envy… just being competitive on a bigger stage. And I think that’s what I wanted.”
It’s a powerful reflection—one that highlights both his internal competitiveness and emotional maturity. Rather than allowing envy to become bitterness, he used it as motivation, fueling his decision to seek a higher level of play.
Brad Underwood’s Role in the Transition
The Illinois coaching staff, led by Brad Underwood, played a central role in making this transfer happen. According to Stojaković, their approach was thoughtful, persistent, and purpose-driven.
“They were in consistent contact,” he said. “And they laid out a vision that focused on how I could help them win.”
Underwood has developed a reputation for bringing out the best in his players, particularly those with versatile skill sets like Stojaković.
By identifying a clear role and ensuring alignment with Stojaković’s goals, the Illini coaching staff created a compelling case for the transfer.
The Role Awaiting Stojaković at Illinois
While specifics remain private, it’s clear that Stojaković’s new role at Illinois will involve both offensive and defensive responsibilities.
Known for his shooting, ball-handling, and basketball IQ, Stojaković can fit seamlessly into a system that values spacing, movement, and high-efficiency scoring.
But it’s more than just numbers. At Illinois, he’s expected to be a leader—someone who has walked different paths, learned from each, and now arrives with purpose.
His presence will not only bolster the roster but also add a level of maturity that comes with his unique journey.
Andrej Stojaković: Mental Growth Through Adversity
Stojaković’s journey hasn’t been linear, and that’s perhaps what makes it so valuable.3
With each transfer, he has had to evaluate not just where he plays, but why he plays. Those kinds of decisions force personal growth, and he seems well aware of how the experiences have shaped him.
“Being out of the tournament my first two years sucks,” he admitted. “But it also gave me clarity. I knew what I didn’t want.”
There’s strength in recognizing failure not as defeat but as feedback. That perspective is rare among young athletes, but it speaks volumes about Stojaković’s mindset heading into this next phase.
A Legacy to Build, Not to Follow
Much of the conversation around Andrej Stojaković has always included his lineage.
Being the son of Peja Stojaković, a European basketball legend and NBA champion, comes with expectations. But Andrej has never shied away from forging his own identity.
His choice to transfer to Illinois wasn’t about legacy—it was about fit, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence.
While his father’s footsteps will always be a part of the story, Andrej is carving out his own narrative, one that is grounded in hard work and driven by internal goals rather than external pressure.
What Illinois Gains in Stojaković
For the Illini, landing Stojaković is more than a roster move—it’s a cultural win. He brings an experienced perspective, a hunger for competition, and a selfless attitude that aligns with championship-level goals.
His arrival also enhances Illinois’ appeal to future recruits. Players want to join programs where others thrive, and Stojaković’s decision signals that Illinois is a destination for serious talent looking to compete on the national stage.
The Bigger Picture: College Basketball’s Evolving Narrative
Andrej Stojaković’s story is part of a broader shift in college basketball.
Players now have more agency than ever before—whether through NIL, the transfer portal, or simply by recognizing their worth and seeking the right environment.
But in a landscape often criticized for its mercenary feel, Stojaković’s move to Illinois stands out.
It’s not about money, flash, or fame—it’s about fit, opportunity, and unfinished business. That message resonates in a sport that thrives on passion and purpose.
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Andrej Stojaković Commits to Illinois with Eyes on National Glory
In a pivotal decision that could shift the college basketball landscape, Andrej Stojaković, one of the most promising wings in the country, has officially committed to the University of Illinois.
With a national championship on his mind, the former Cal standout is ready to embrace a winning culture and help bring glory to the Fighting Illini under head coach Brad Underwood.
Stojaković had no shortage of options. Prestigious programs like North Carolina and Stanford were in pursuit, each offering their own legacy and promise. However, it was Illinois that captured the attention and ambition of the talented forward.
“I want to win. Period. That’s it,” Stojaković said emphatically. That mentality aligns perfectly with Underwood’s culture in Champaign, which has transformed Illinois into a perennial Big Ten contender and a national force.
He believed that Underwood didn’t just see him as another recruit—but as a cornerstone of a championship team. That level of trust and vision played a critical role in Stojaković’s decision.
Stojaković’s Game: A Complete Package
- Averaging 17.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game last season at Cal, Stojaković showcased his all-around ability. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a multi-dimensional player with size, court vision, and high basketball IQ.
- He excels at creating his own shot, whether slashing to the rim or pulling up from deep.
- But more importantly, he’s become increasingly effective at involving his teammates, recognizing double-teams, and defending the perimeter and interior with equal energy.
- Stojaković himself acknowledged this versatility: “I’ve scored points, I’ve rebounded the ball… I’ve shown that I can get my teammates involved… I can block a lot of shots.”
- That two-way impact is precisely what Illinois needs to make a deep March run.
- As the son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković, Andrej carries a name that resonates in basketball circles.
- While comparisons to his father are inevitable, Andrej is carving his own path—one defined by grit, commitment, and a hunger to win.
- While Peja’s career was defined by elite shooting and international success, Andrej’s trajectory is built around adaptability and leadership.
- He’s a modern forward who brings physicality and finesse, proving he’s not just a legacy recruit, but a leader in his own right.
Andrej Stojaković’s Mentality: Championship or Bust
Throughout interviews and appearances, one theme is constant—Stojaković wants to win on the biggest stage.
“I think the main thing is just winning on a big stage. I think that’s what I want, and I’m super hungry for that,” he said.
That kind of singular focus is what separates good players from great ones. He’s not coming to Illinois to rebuild or develop slowly—he’s coming to win now.
It’s this drive that fans in Champaign have come to love. Stojaković isn’t content with individual stats or moral victories—he’s here to hang banners.
A Culture Shift in College Hoops
With the transfer portal reshaping college basketball, players like Stojaković represent a new era where elite talent moves with intention.
His move from Cal to Illinois is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a calculated decision aimed at contending for a title.
Gone are the days when top players settled for struggling programs to “lead the rebuild.” Now, the best players are aligning with strong systems and proven coaches.
In that sense, Stojaković’s decision speaks volumes about Illinois’ national reputation.
Andrej Stojaković: Brand Partner
Andrej Stojaković become the branding partner of Dicks Sporting Goods and he added the shop link on his bio.
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Fan Excitement Reaches New Heights
The buzz around Stojaković’s commitment has reignited the Illinois fanbase. After a strong season last year, the addition of an impact scorer only heightens expectations for a Final Four appearance.
Social media lit up with excitement, and Illini supporters are already envisioning how the new lineup will perform against top-tier opponents. There’s belief in the air, and for good reason—Stojaković might be the missing piece.
For Illinois and Stojaković, the road to the national championship begins now. Preseason workouts, team chemistry, and early-season matchups will all serve as vital preparation for what they hope is a deep March run.
With Stojaković’s winning mentality and Underwood’s proven coaching, Illinois fans are beginning to dream big. If the pieces fall into place, this could be one of the most successful Illini teams in decades.
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