Following a landmark NCAA eligibility ruling, the double-double machine signals his return to Orlando, reuniting a veteran frontcourt poised to dominate the glass and the Big 12.
Earlier this week, the NCAA unanimously approved the 5-year rule, allowing players starting 2027 to have an extra year of eligibility, along with other changes.
For UCF forward Jamichael Stillwell, who has been seeking an additional year, this is huge news, that should allow him to return to the program.
On Wednesday, Stillwell seemingly confirmed that he will be back, writing a message via X.
"I will be getting another year of eligibility soon, hope to see y’all soon KNIGHT NATION."
While UCF has not confirmed Stillwell's extra year, this is certainly good news for a program looking to build on last year's success.
Stillwell, who recently signed with Iconic Sports Management and worked out for the Los Angeles Lakers prior to the NBA Draft, would be a huge addition to the Knights' currently constructed roster.
In his lone season with UCF, Stillwell averaged 11.6 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, recording the most double-doubles since Tacko Fall.
Alongside fellow Milwaukee transfer Themus Fulks, Stillwell formed one of the Big 12's deadliest pick-and-roll duos, possessing great feel in the mid-range.
The 6-foot-8 forward shot career-bests from every level, taking a big jump as a free-throw shooter.
With Milwaukee, Stilwell shot under 57-percent from the charity stripe. But, with UCF, Stillwell was a 70-percent free-throw shooter, paired with 50-percent from the field.
However, Stillwell's rebounding is his most defining quality, as he frequently found himself leading the charge on the glass.
In UCF's final three games of the season, Stillwell averaged 13 rebounds per game, including a 17-point, 15-board showing against Cincinnati.
Entering the matchup against the Bearcats, the Knights were one of the final teams listed in most March Madness projections, meaning a loss could land them on the outside looking out.
But, Stillwell willed UCF through a tough shooting performance to earn a 66-65 overtime victory.
In the following round of the Big 12 Tournament, Stillwell recorded seven points, 11 rebounds, and five assists against the eventual conference champion Arizona Wildcats, once again paving way on the glass.
Now, Stillwell may have the opportunity to be the Knights' vocal leader on next year's team, as he would be the most experienced player on the floor.
If he can return, UCF would bring back its starting front court from last season, with Stillwell reuniting alongside 7-footer John Bol.
UCF has also added good size through the portal, like New Orleans transfer Churchill Abass and Boston College transfer Jason Asemota.
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