Illinois Freshman Keaton Wagler Declares for NBA Draft, Projected as Top-10 Pick to Mavericks

**TL;DR:** Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler declared for the 2026 NBA draft Saturday, projecting as the No. 7 pick to the Dallas Mavericks in USA TODAY's latest mock draft after leading the Fighting Illini to the Final Four.

The 19-year-old guard becomes the highest-profile underclassman to enter this year's draft cycle. NBA teams have spent weeks evaluating March Madness performances, trying to separate breakthrough moments from sustainable production. Wagler's case includes both.

Wagler posted 20 points and 8 rebounds in the Final Four loss to UConn. He scored 25 points in the Elite Eight. The freshman earned Big Ten Rookie of the Year honors while averaging 17.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game on 44.6% shooting from the field.

His 39.7% three-point percentage ranks among the best in the draft class. He connected on as many as nine 3-pointers in a single game this season.

The Mavericks hold the No. 7 selection and possess the worst offensive rating in the Western Conference. Adding a perimeter shooter addresses their most pressing need.

Wagler's tournament performance elevated his draft stock from first-round possibility to lock for the lottery. Teams will scrutinize his pre-draft workouts to determine whether his shooting and court vision offset limited athletic tools.

The June draft will determine whether Wagler's college production translates to the next level.