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Illinois Basketball: Starting lineup with the class of 2018

By Rees Woodcock

Mar 4, 2017; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Brad Underwood during the game against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Brad Underwood during the game against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini cheerleaders perform on the court during a stoppage in play against the Michigan Wolverines in the second half during the Big Ten Conference Tournament at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 2 Guard

Starter: Mark Smith

The highest rated recruit coming in from the class of 2017 is Mark Smith. He is a great player coming from the high school ranks and even won the Illinois Mr. Basketball award. This kid is a four-star recruit who is ranked inside the top 100. Getting Smith was a huge accomplishment for Underwood and his coaching staff.

Entering 2018, expect Smith to be a staple in the Illinois offense and defense. He is going to be starting this upcoming season and when 2018 rolls around, he will likely be a preseason All-Big Ten selection. Look for Smith to also be a primary ball handler with Lucas. That duo should be able to take this team to the Big Dance.

Backup: Da’Monte Williams

Da’Monte Williams is coming in from the class of 2017 as well. He is an underrated recruit who used to be in the top 100 but injuries dropped him to a three-star rating.

Williams will be fully healthy in 2018 and will see decent minutes. He will be the primary backup to Smith and will be important to spell some minutes for him. Watch for Williams to really develop between years one and two.

Backup: Aaron Jordan

The biggest wildcard on the Illinois basketball team right now is Aaron Jordan. He has great talent but his future all depends on what he does this season. Does he come out guns blazing and show the world he belongs in the rotation? He controls his future.

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