Illinois’ Keaton Wagler Declares for 2026 NBA Draft
keaton-wagler-declares-for-2026-nba-draft
Illinois freshman guard Keaton Wagler has entered the 2026 NBA Draft, according to ProMondo Sports representatives who spoke with ESPN insiders Shams Charania and Jeremy Woo.
The 19-year-old led the Fighting Illini to a 28–9 record and their first Final Four berth since 2005. Over 37 games, he averaged 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists while shooting 44.5% from the field and 39.7% beyond the arc.
Wagler’s debut season brought a host of honors, including the Jerry West Award as the nation’s top guard, second-team All-America recognition, Big Ten Freshman of the Year and first-team all-conference status.
On January 24, the Shawnee, Kansas, native scored 46 points at Purdue, setting an Illinois freshman record and the highest total ever by a visiting player at Mackey Arena. His nine three-pointers in that game also established a program record.
Standing 6’6”, Wagler is viewed as a versatile backcourt option in a deep guard class. ESPN ranks him No. 5 on its top-100 list and projects him as the sixth selection in its latest mock draft.
Scouts have praised his size, shooting touch and quick decision-making, Woo reported, while NBA executives believe he could reach star status with further development as a ball-handler.
Source: Hoops Rumors
