Ked's Recruiting Roundup: Expect Big Things From Illinois’ Youthful Backcourt

By Kedric Prince - IlliniGuys Staff Writer

May 5th, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy Anoke Deitg-Blanchard)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Expectations are once again soaring for the Illinois men’s basketball program, as the Illini enter the upcoming season positioned among the nation’s elite. According to CBS Sports college basketball insider Jon Rothstein, Illinois is ranked No. 2 in the country in the preseason, trailing only Florida, reinforcing the belief that Brad Underwood’s program remains firmly in the national spotlight.

The 2025-26 season featured several standout players, headlined by freshman Keaton Wagler, who emerged as an All-American and is . . .

 

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Podcasts

591 - NBA Draft Talk Wagler, Andrej & Bam

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5.8.26 - Illini Hoops, Golf, Tennis & Softball

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590 Tom Michael Returns, Softball Coaching Change & What's Next for Illini Golf

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5.1.26 - Ayo & TSJ Dump the Nuggets, Illini Hoops Recruiting Update & Mike Small

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589 IlliniGuys Subscriber Mailbag Episode

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588 Illini Football & Hoops Update with Ayo, Andrej & the NFL Draft

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4.24.26 - Illini Hoops Update & Illini in the NFL Draft

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Ked's Recruiting Roundup - Divine & Family

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4.17.26 - Impressive Illini Roster Building for Next Season

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587 Mirk, Ivisic Twins & Davis Are Back

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Ked's Recruiting Roundup - Kate McDougall

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586 - Portal Kombat - Vaaks Commits to Illini

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4.10.26 - Final Four Reflections & Portal Kombat Tips Off

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585 Breaking down UConn Game & Looking Forward to Portal Kombat

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584 IlliniGuys with the Illini at the Final Four

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