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Illinois Basketball: Starting lineup without Jeremiah Tilmon and Javon Pickett

By Rees Woodcock

Jan 4, 2017; South Bend, IN, USA; Two basketballs are stuck in the net during warmups before the game between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Louisville Cardinals at the Purcell Pavilion. Notre Dame won 77-70. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2017; South Bend, IN, USA; Two basketballs are stuck in the net during warmups before the game between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Louisville Cardinals at the Purcell Pavilion. Notre Dame won 77-70. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini forward Leron Black (12) shoots the ball as Michigan Wolverines forward D.J. Wilson (5) defends in the first half during the Big Ten Conference Tournament at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 5 Spot

Starter: Leron Black

I know that a 6-foot-7 guy at the No. 5 spot is a little nerve racking, but I think in Underwood’s system it will be a great marriage.

Black is an extremely talented player that can be an asset to the Illini this season. I originally wanted him to be the starter at the No. 4 spot, but since Jeremiah Tilmon decommitted I have no choice.

Many people may scoff at the idea of Black at the No. 5 spot, but I think he would do just fine. He is not a good rebounder, he is a great rebounder. He can pull the ball down with short or tall people around him. That is his specialty.

Another note on Black is his wingspan. While is does only stand at 6-foot-7, he still has a 6-foot-11 wingspan and that is a difference maker. He can play bigger than he really is and that is important.

Next: 4 options to replace Jeremiah Tilmon

Backup: Michael Finke

A nice backup that can really cause mismatches at times is Michael Finke. He is a 6-foot-10 guy who can shoot the three-point shot.

The only downfall to Finke is his defense and strenth, but both of those can be developed. I can’t wait to see what Underwood does with him on the court.

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