Champaign, Ill. – In a historic moment for the University of Illinois men’s basketball program, freshman guard Keaton Wagler has been named a second-team All-American by The Associated Press. The recognition, announced Wednesday, marks the first time a freshman Illini player has received this honor from the AP. Wagler’s exceptional performance throughout the 2025-26 season has not only captivated fans but has likewise solidified his place among the nation’s elite college basketball players, a remarkable feat for someone in his first year of collegiate competition.
The AP honor is just one of many accolades Wagler has accumulated this season. He was previously named a First-Team All-American by Bleacher Report and a Second-Team All-American by both The Sporting News and Field of 68. Wagler also emerged as a finalist for the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year Award, showcasing his all-around offensive prowess. His impact was immediately felt within the Big Ten Conference, where he was crowned Freshman of the Year and earned a spot on the First-Team All-Big Ten. These achievements highlight a season of consistent excellence and rapid development for the young guard.
A Record-Breaking Freshman Campaign
Wagler didn’t just meet expectations; he shattered them. He broke the Illinois freshman season scoring record, amassing an impressive 573 points. His scoring average of 17.9 points per game puts him on track to potentially break the Illini all-time freshman scoring average record, previously set in the 1993-94 season. The freshman has demonstrated a remarkable consistency, scoring in double figures in each of his last 24 games and 29 times overall this season. He’s reach within one game of tying the Illinois freshman record for 20-point performances, having already reached nine such games.
His standout performance against No. 4 Purdue on January 24th, where he scored a record-setting 46 points, earned him National Player of the Week honors. Wagler’s ability to consistently deliver high-level performances has been a key factor in Illinois’ success this season. He currently ranks seventh in the KenPom national player of the year standings and is second in the nation in offensive rating among players with at least 24% possession usage, boasting a rating of 131.3. He is one of only three NCAA freshmen averaging at least 17 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
Underwood’s Fifth All-American in Six Years
Keaton Wagler’s selection as an AP All-American continues a trend of success under head coach Brad Underwood. This marks the fifth time in the last six years that an Illinois player has earned AP All-American honors, demonstrating the program’s consistent rise in national prominence. Wagler joins Kofi Cockburn (2022, First Team & Second Team), Ayo Dosunmu (2021, First Team), Dee Brown (2006 & 2005, Second Team), and Luther Head (2005, Second Team) as recent representatives of the Illini on the prestigious AP All-America teams. In total, Wagler is the 22nd player in Illinois history to receive this recognition.
2025-26 AP All-America Teams
The Associated Press also released the full 2025-26 All-America teams. Joining Wagler on the Second Team are Jeremy Fears Jr. (Michigan State), Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State), Braden Smith (Purdue), and Caleb Wilson (North Carolina). The First Team is comprised of Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas), Cameron Boozer (Duke), AJ Dybantsa (BYU), Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan), and JT Toppin (Texas Tech). The Third Team includes Christian Anderson (Texas Tech), Kingston Flemings (Houston), Thomas Haugh (Florida), Graham Ike (Gonzaga), and Labaron Philon (Alabama).
The impact of Wagler’s performance extends beyond individual accolades. His arrival has injected new energy and excitement into the Illinois basketball program, attracting attention from recruits and fans alike. His success story – an overlooked high school recruit blossoming into a national star – resonates with aspiring players and underscores the potential for growth and development within the program. As Wagler continues his collegiate career, he is poised to become a cornerstone of the Illinois basketball program for years to come.
Looking ahead, the focus shifts to the future of the Illinois basketball program and Wagler’s continued development. The team will undoubtedly glance to build upon this season’s success, with Wagler expected to play a pivotal role in their pursuit of future championships. Official announcements regarding the team’s offseason plans and recruiting efforts will be released through the University of Illinois Athletics website.
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