The Illinois basketball team is in the middle of a big-time recruiting battle for some big-time recruits.
One of the top targets for the Illini right now is KK Robinson. He is a kid who could help replace Ayo Dosunmu once he departs after the season. But Robinson will not be an easy recruit to land. If we do land him, though, this Illinois team is going to be extremely dangerous.
Here is what the Illini lineup could look like with KK Robinson.
No. 1 Guard
Starter: KK Robinson
If KK Robinson decides Illinois is the best place for him to play college basketball, then I think he starts at the No. 1 guard spot from day one. Obviously, Ayo Dosunmu will have departed the program for the NBA. But Robinson would be a nearly seamless transition from Ayo.
Robinson just finished up his official visit to Illinois this past weekend. He is a wanted recruit by many different programs. Robinson is a 6-foot, 175-pound point guard from Bryant High School in Bryant, Arkansas. He is rated as a four-star recruit who is the No. 71 player in the class of 2020 and the No. 11 point guard in the nation. He is also the best player to come out of Arkansas. Getting Robinson would be a huge accomplishment for the Illinois coaching staff.
Backup: Austin Hutcherson
The primary backup to Robinson would probably be someone like Austin Hutcherson. He transferred into the Illinois program this offseason from Wesleyan University. He was a multi-tool player for the Cardinals averaging 20 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. I think he might be one of the best passers on the team immediately.
Backup: Da’Monte Williams
I have Da’Monte Williams coming in as the second backup to Robinson. Williams will see his fair share of time on the floor in multiple positions. But I don’t think he will be a starter again for the Illini. He is a good body to have for depth.