University of Illinois first-year basketball player Keaton Wagler announced Saturday via social media that he plans to enter the 2026 NBA Draft following a record-breaking freshman campaign.
The guard, who earned consensus second-team All-American honors, helped guide the Fighting Illini to a 28-9 season record and the program’s first Final Four appearance in nearly two decades.
“This past year has been the journey of a lifetime,” Wagler wrote on his Instagram account. “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.”
The 6-foot-6 player from Shawnee, Kansas, made history as the first freshman in Illinois basketball history to receive consensus All-America recognition. The university plans to honor his jersey at State Farm Center in Champaign.
Wagler posted impressive statistics throughout the season, leading Illinois with 17.9 points per game and 4.2 assists while starting every contest across 37 games. He also contributed 5.1 rebounds per game, shot 44.5% from the floor, and connected on 39.7% of his three-point attempts, recording 34 steals total.
His freshman campaign set new program milestones for first-year players, including total points scored (663) and points per game average. He also matched the freshman record for three-pointers made with 87.
Among his accolades, Wagler received the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year award, earned first-team All-Big Ten recognition, and was named the conference’s top freshman.
“The Illini fans are the best in the world,” Wagler wrote. “I’ll never forget the feeling of hearing State Farm Center go crazy for the kid from Shawnee, Kansas. Thank you to Coach (Brad) Underwood and the entire Illinois staff for believing in me when others did not. Since I was a kid, I’ve dreamt of playing basketball on the biggest stage. After speaking with my family and reflecting on this amazing journey, I’ve decided it’s time to turn that dream into reality. I will be declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft. Champaign, Illinois will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Draft analysts project Wagler as a potential lottery selection in the upcoming NBA Draft.
