Full Breakdown
Chicago-area College Stars at NBA Draft Combine
5/14/2026, 1:05:34 PM
NBA Draft Combine in Chicago’s South Loop
Nearly 80 prospects gathered in Chicago’s South Loop for the NBA Draft Combine, a pre-draft showcase that precedes a draft limited to 60 selections. The event draws heightened local interest as several Chicago-area players test their draft stock.
Key Figures
Illini forwards Andrej Stojakovic, Kylan Boswell and top-ten prospect Keaton Wagler arrived from the Final Four squad. Northwestern’s Jeremy Fears Jr. and Nick Martinelli, Michigan transfer Morez Johnson Jr., and Bulls-linked prospects Caleb Wilson, Cam Boozer and Darryn Peterson also participated.
Data & Statistics
The combine hosts roughly 80 hopefuls for 60 draft slots; three Illini Final Four players and one former Illinois transfer are present. The Chicago Bulls hold the fourth and fifteenth picks.
Official Statements & Responses
Wagler called his invitation “definitely super, super low,” emphasizing hard work and confidence to compete globally. Stojakovic described his draft decision as a “good problem,” noting the rare option to return to a Final Four team. Johnson highlighted his versatility at forward and center, believing it will sustain a long NBA career.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Definitely super, super low. Unexpected for sure. I think it just goes in to show how hard I worked this year, and a tribute to coaching staff and teammates for allowing me to showcase my talent and put a lot of trust in me ... and the confidence I had in myself knowing that I can play against anyone in the world,” — Keaton Wagler, Illini forward
- “I think I'm in a special situation where my option to go back to school is one of a kind. Not many people in this combine have the option to go back to a Final Four team with most of the guys returning,” — Andrej Stojakovic, Illini forward
- “Just being versatile. Someone just asked me about being able to play the four and five. I think I'm capable of doing both at the next level,” — Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan forward/center
- “I think that's what's going to help me have a long-lasting career in the NBA.” — Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan forward/center
Implications for the Chicago Bulls
The Bulls have not yet met with Wagler, despite holding the fourth and fifteenth picks, but have already spoken with Wilson, Boozer and Peterson. The combine provides the Bulls an opportunity to evaluate local talent before finalizing their selections.
What’s Next
The NBA Draft is slated for next month. Prospects such as Wagler, Stojakovic and Johnson await draft invitations, potential meetings with the Bulls and final decisions on their eligibility.
