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Former Cal Star Set to Lead Illinois’ New-Look Offense Andrej Stojaković, one of the most highly sought-after players in the transfer portal, has officially committed to the University of Illinois, solidifying a major addition to Brad Underwood’s roster for the upcoming 2025-26 college basketball season. The 6-foot-7 guard, and son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković, brings both pedigree and proven production to a team that is reshaping its identity following key departures. Stojaković selected Illinois over other strong contenders, including North Carolina and Stanford, where he began his collegiate career. His decision bolsters Illinois' backcourt and adds a much-needed scoring punch, placing the Illini firmly in the conversation for a preseason top-25 ranking. A Breakout Season at California After a freshman year at Stanford that showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency, Stojaković transferred to California for his sophomore campaign. The move paid immediate dividends. He emerged as one of the top scorers in the ACC, averaging 17.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game for a Golden Bears team that struggled overall but leaned heavily on his offensive output. Stojaković led Cal in scoring and was sixth overall in the ACC. His role expanded significantly, with an average of nearly 14 shot attempts per game. Although his shooting percentages hovered at 42.7% from the field and 31.8% from three-point range, he closed the season strong, posting career-best performances in the ACC Tournament. Over the final two games, he averaged 33 points and connected on 7-of-13 three-point attempts, earning a spot on the ACC All-Tournament First Team . His breakout year drew national attention, positioning him among the top 40 players in the transfer portal according to 247Sports. Why Illinois Made Sense Illinois’ aggressive pursuit of Stojaković highlighted just how pivotal they believe he can be for their immediate success. Head coach Brad Underwood has a strong history of developing versatile, bigger guards, and the program needed to rebuild its perimeter following the departures of Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley to the NBA Draft . Stojaković fits seamlessly into the Illini’s offensive system, offering a blend of scoring, ball-handling, and the ability to space the floor. His versatility allows him to bring the ball up the court or operate as a catch-and-shoot threat from the wing, providing Underwood with the type of flexible offensive weapon that has driven Illinois’ success in recent years. Beyond his skills, his experience playing major college minutes will be critical for a roster that will feature a significant international influence next season. A New International Identity Stojaković’s arrival adds to an increasingly global flavor for the Fighting Illini. He joins Serbian newcomers Mihailo Petrovic and David Mirkovic, as well as Croatian brothers Zvonimir and Tomislav Ivišić, creating what may be the most internationally influenced roster in the Big Ten . This international infusion signals a philosophical shift for Underwood, who has focused recruiting efforts both domestically and abroad. The additions aim to blend high basketball IQ, positional size, and versatility, all traits that fit well into the coach’s evolving style of play. Illinois’ new roster construction could give the team an offensive edge in a Big Ten traditionally known for its physicality and slower pace. Projected Role and Expectations At Illinois, Stojaković is expected to take on a featured role. Based on returning production, he will likely be the team’s leading scorer entering the season. His scoring ability at all three levels—on catch-and-shoot plays, off the dribble, and in post-up situations—will allow him to impact games immediately. Additionally, his defensive tools, including lateral quickness and shot-blocking instincts, should allow him to contribute on both ends of the floor. Stojaković recorded a career-high six blocks in a game against Notre Dame last season and totaled 34 blocks on the year . Consistency and efficiency will be key for Stojaković’s next step. At times, he struggled with shot selection and turnovers at Cal, especially when facing physical defensive schemes. Under Underwood’s structured offense, those aspects of his game are expected to refine naturally. A New Chapter with High Expectations Illinois finished the 2024-25 season with a 22-13 record, reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament before falling to Kentucky. With a strong recruiting class and strategic portal acquisitions, the Illini are building momentum for a deeper postseason run. Adding a proven scorer like Stojaković—who brings experience from two Power Six programs—positions Illinois to not only contend in the Big Ten but also potentially climb into national relevance during the 2025-26 campaign. As Stojaković transitions to his third college program in three years, the expectations will be high. Yet with a proven ability to adapt, a lineage of basketball excellence, and a roster built to maximize his strengths, he has a unique opportunity to flourish in Champaign.
Late Own Goal Sinks Brooklyn Despite Aggressive Second-Half Push Brooklyn FC’s push for a playoff berth suffered a major setback Saturday night as they fell 1-0 to DC Power FC at Maimonides Park. Despite dominating stretches of possession and generating numerous chances, an own goal in the final moments sealed a painful defeat. The loss drops Brooklyn FC to 9-8-9 (36 points), leaving them clinging to sixth place in the USL Super League standings with just two matches remaining. Meanwhile, DC Power FC, after a tough spring campaign, earned only their fifth win of the season but kept their slim postseason hopes alive. First Half Stalemate Brooklyn FC came into the match desperate to regain form after a string of disappointing results. The team applied early pressure, forcing DC goalkeeper Morgan Aquino into action multiple times during the opening half. Isabel Cox, Mackenzie George, and Jessica Garziano all created opportunities inside the first 30 minutes. George nearly opened the scoring in the 45th minute, missing narrowly over the bar after a fast break . Despite dominating the attacking statistics, Brooklyn struggled to finish their chances. DC Power, while pinned back for much of the first half, remained organized defensively and managed to reach halftime with the match level at 0-0. Weather Delay and Tactical Adjustments The second half began with a weather-related delay, forcing players and fans to endure a 40-minute lightning interruption . When play resumed, Brooklyn FC introduced multiple substitutes, including Dana Scheriff, Salma Amani, and Ginger Fontenot, hoping to inject fresh energy into their attack. Brooklyn created the better chances after the restart. Sam Rosette rattled the post with a close-range effort in the 89th minute following a through ball from Leah Scarpelli . Moments later, Kelsey Hill fired high and wide after finding space at the top of the box. Despite the pressure, Brooklyn could not find the back of the net. Heartbreak in Stoppage Time Just as it appeared the match would end in a draw, disaster struck. In the 98th minute, DC Power forced a late corner kick. Under pressure inside the six-yard box, Brooklyn defender Kelsey Hill inadvertently deflected the ball into her own net . The own goal stunned the home crowd and handed DC Power a crucial three points. Brooklyn had no time to recover, with the final whistle sounding moments later. It was a cruel ending for a Brooklyn side that had dominated most of the second half but lacked the finishing touch to secure the win. Standout Performances Despite the loss, several Brooklyn players impressed: Jessica Garziano continued her strong midfield presence, winning fouls and orchestrating attacks. Sasha Pickard provided stability along the back line and led the team in clearances. Neeku Purcell made several key saves in goal to keep Brooklyn in the match before the late own goal. Newcomers Nikia Smith and Caroline Kelly earned their first starts for Brooklyn FC, showing promise and adding to the team’s depth . Playoff Implications With the defeat, Brooklyn FC’s path to the playoffs becomes significantly harder. They remain in sixth place, but teams below them, including Fort Lauderdale United FC and Spokane Zephyr FC, are closing the gap. Brooklyn’s final two matches—both on the road—will be critical. They face Fort Lauderdale next, followed by a tough finale against Carolina Ascent FC, the league’s top team . Sporting Director Kevin Tenjo remains optimistic that the team can rally. The margin for error, however, has disappeared. What’s Next Brooklyn FC will travel to face Fort Lauderdale United FC on Saturday, May 3, in a match that could determine their playoff fate. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM ET, and the match will be broadcast live on Peacock . Fans are encouraged to join Brooklyn FC’s upcoming 5v5 tournament and watch party at Street Soccer USA Park in the Bronx earlier that afternoon to show support before the decisive road fixture.
Corbin and Harding Lead Attack as Ascent Secures Sixth Straight Victory In a high-scoring and emotionally charged match at Fort Lauderdale’s home ground, Carolina Ascent FC became the first team in USL Super League history to officially clinch a playoff berth. With a 5-2 win over fourth-place Fort Lauderdale United on April 26, 2025, Carolina extended their winning streak to six games and further solidified their position atop the league standings with just three regular season matches remaining . The result was a statement of dominance, showcasing the offensive depth and mental resilience of a Carolina squad that has consistently delivered all season long. After conceding a goal inside the opening three minutes, the visitors roared back with five unanswered goals before Fort Lauderdale added a consolation effort in stoppage time. Early Goal Ends Shutout Streak Fort Lauderdale United started strong, ending Carolina’s record-setting shutout streak in just the third minute. Jasmine Hamid scored her ninth goal of the season off a clever pass from Kiara Locklear, breaking a Carolina defense that had not conceded in five straight matches . But Carolina wasted no time responding. Just two minutes later, Audrey Harding whipped in a precise cross from the right side, and Mia Corbin rose to head it in—her league-leading 11th goal of the season—to level the match at 1-1. That rapid answer set the tone for Carolina’s offensive onslaught. Ascent Takes Control Carolina grabbed the lead in the 17th minute when Harding cut inside from the wing and curled a stunning shot into the far corner past Fort Lauderdale keeper Cosette Morché. Harding’s footwork and precision made it a highlight-worthy strike and her sixth goal of the season. Morché did her best to keep Fort Lauderdale in the match with a series of strong saves, including a kick-stop on Jill Aguilera. However, the pressure was unrelenting. In the 34th minute, Aguilera delivered a corner that found the head of Sarah Troccoli, who nodded in Carolina’s third goal—a composed finish that capped off a dominant first half . Carolina’s attack not only scored in bunches but also controlled tempo and possession. They forced Fort Lauderdale onto the back foot and dictated the rhythm from midfield, making it difficult for the home side to build consistent attacking patterns. Harding and Corbin Seal the Result The second half brought more of the same. In the 77th minute, Harding mirrored her earlier goal with another spectacular solo effort, cutting in from the right and curling a shot into the top corner. Her brace pushed Carolina’s lead to 4-1 and demonstrated her growing influence on the wing. Just four minutes later, Riley Parker was brought down in the box after a driving run, earning Carolina a penalty. Corbin stepped up and calmly slotted home her 12th goal of the season—extending her lead in the Golden Boot race and cementing the Ascent’s control at 5-1. The two-goal performances from both Harding and Corbin marked the first time this season two Carolina players scored braces in the same match . Late Consolation and Milestone Moments Fort Lauderdale added a second goal in stoppage time when Addie McCain, left unmarked in the box, fired home her 10th goal of the campaign. With the strike, McCain became only the third player in USL Super League history to reach double-digit goals in a season . Despite the late effort, the home side could not overcome Carolina’s aggressive press, superior ball movement, and overall finishing quality. Playoff Implications and Looking Ahead With the win, Carolina improved to 13-5-7 (46 points) and remains in first place with a comfortable cushion. They now have the opportunity to secure the league’s top seed and home-field advantage through the postseason. Fort Lauderdale, on the other hand, remains in a tight battle for playoff qualification. Now winless in their last five matches, they’ll face Brooklyn FC next in a match that could decide their postseason fate . Carolina will return home next week for a celebratory but focused fixture as they continue to chase the regular-season title. With standout performances from their veteran stars and a deep supporting cast, the Ascent are peaking at exactly the right time.
Bolt, Strawn, and Thornton Shine as Dallas Sweeps the Regular Season Series Dallas Trinity FC extended its strong home record and maintained second place in the USL Super League standings with a 3-1 victory over Lexington SC on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Before a crowd of 4,753 at the Cotton Bowl, Dallas displayed its attacking depth and defensive resilience, sweeping the regular season series against Lexington with a perfect 4-0-0 record . The victory pushes Dallas to an 11-6-7 record (40 points), keeping them firmly in the playoff race with a critical three-match road trip on the horizon. Fast Start Sets the Tone Dallas wasted no time asserting control over the match. In the 5th minute, forward Tamara Bolt opened the scoring with her first goal for the club, assisted by midfielder Deborah Abiodun . Bolt, signed on loan from the Washington Spirit in February, demonstrated her attacking instincts by finding space in the box and calmly finishing into the bottom right corner. Bolt’s early goal energized Dallas, who dominated possession throughout the opening half. They peppered the Lexington goal with shots, ultimately finishing the match with 22 total shots compared to just 4 from Lexington . Despite several dangerous chances from Allie Thornton, Camryn Lancaster, and Gracie Brian, Dallas carried only a 1-0 lead into halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half. Lexington's Fightback Falls Short Lexington SC, struggling at the bottom of the standings, showed renewed spirit after the break. In the 69th minute, midfielder Hannah White leveled the match with a composed finish off a set-piece assist from Shea Moyer . The goal was a breakthrough moment for Lexington, who had spent most of the match defending deep in their half. However, their celebration was short-lived. Less than a minute later, Dallas responded. Academy product Sealey Strawn slotted home a through ball from Camryn Lancaster to restore the lead . Strawn’s quick goal, her third of the season, highlighted her growing impact ahead of her collegiate career at the University of North Carolina. Lexington’s brief momentum evaporated as Dallas regained control and pressed for a third. Thornton Seals the Win In stoppage time, Dallas put the match to bed. Allie Thornton, the team’s leading scorer, tallied her 11th goal of the season in the 90+3’ minute . Assisted by Jenny-Julia Danielsson, Thornton’s calm right-footed finish into the bottom left corner not only secured the victory but also moved her to second place on the league’s scoring charts. Thornton’s production continues to anchor Dallas’ attack, giving the team a reliable scoring option during their playoff push. Statistical Dominance and Team Notes Dallas held massive advantages across key statistical categories: Total Shots: 22-4 Shots on Target: 8-1 Corners: 9-3 Possession: 58% Dallas, 42% Lexington Thirteen Dallas players saw action in the match, showcasing the squad's depth as they prepare for an intense end-of-season schedule. The win improved Dallas’ home record to 6-2-5 on the season . Lexington's Bright Spot: Natalie Higgins’ Return Despite the defeat, Lexington had a celebratory moment as Natalie Higgins made her USL Super League debut. After a long recovery from a preseason leg injury, Higgins entered the match in the 76th minute and provided an emotional lift to the team . Lexington head coach Sam Stockley praised Higgins’ perseverance and highlighted the team’s improved second-half performance, despite conceding two late goals. Lexington now sits at 4-15-5 (17 points) and will travel to face Spokane Zephyr FC in their next match. What’s Next Dallas Trinity FC now heads into a pivotal stretch of road games, beginning with Tampa Bay Sun FC on May 3 at Riverfront Stadium. With a playoff spot within reach, securing points away from home will be crucial . Lexington SC, meanwhile, looks to finish the season strong with one final road match before returning for a three-game homestand. As the playoff race tightens, Dallas' depth, leadership from veterans like Thornton, and the emergence of young talents like Strawn position them well for a strong finish.