Illinois All-American guard Keaton Wagler announced on Instagram Saturday that he is declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Wagler’s announcement follows the most decorated freshman season ever by an Illini, where he set program freshman records in the following categories: 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).
Wagler is the first Illini freshman to be named consensus All-American, and he also won the 2026 Jerry West Award. Wagler was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA South Regional after leading Illinois to its first Final Four appearance in 21 years.
Wagler posted the following message on his Instagram page announcing his decision.
“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.
“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. Thank you to Coach 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.”