Illini Freshman Keaton Wagler Turning Top-100 Snub into NBA Opportunity

By Kedric Prince - IlliniGuys Staff Writer

December 21, 2025

(Cover photo courtesy Illinois Athletics)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois freshman guard Keaton Wagler is doing more than adjusting to the college game. He is putting the country on notice.

The 6-foot-6 guard from Shawnee Mission Northwest has quickly become a key piece for the nation’s No. 18-ranked Fighting Illini, showcasing poise, confidence, and consistency well beyond his age as a freshman. As Big Ten play approaches, Wagler’s rise has not gone unnoticed beyond Champaign . . .

 

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