Top 2028 Prospect Enmanuel Valera Melo Would 'fit as an Illini'

By IlliniGuys Staff

May 26, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy player's Instagram page)

Next month, a scene will take place at the NBA Draft that's become very familiar:

A star, lanky Fighting Illini guard hearing his name called and taking center stage for pictures with NBA commissioner Adam Silver to begin his professional career.

6-foot-6 inch All-American guard Keaton Wagler will become the fifth such Illini to be drafted this decade. The projected lottery pick joining draftees Kasparas Jakucionis (6'6" guard to Miami in 2025), Will Riley (6'8" guard to Washington in 2025), Terrence . . .

 

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Podcasts

593 - Logan Wagler (Keaton's Dad) Talks to the IlliniGuys

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5.22.26 - Illini in the NBA Draft & Illini Golf & Baseball Updates

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592 Illini Football & Basketball Updates (& Pizza, too)

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5.15.26 Illini Hoops & Football Recruiting Update

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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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