Illinois Basketball: 5 players to watch from the updated 2021 ESPN 100

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PISCATAWAY, NJ – FEBRUARY 15: The logo of the Illinois Fighting Illini on the uniform shorts during in a college basketball game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Rutgers Athletic Center on February 15, 2020 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

3. Brandon Weston

In-state recruiting is something that Brad Underwood and his coaching staff have done well since coming together in the last three years. The next player I have confidence will come to Champaign is in-state product, Brandon Weston.

Weston comes in as the No. 79 player in the class of 2021, according to the 2021 ESPN 100. The 6-foot-4, 170-pound wing from Morgan Park High School is rated as a four-star recruit who is the No. 19 small forward in the class and the No. 4 player coming out of the state of Illinois.

I would say the No. 79 ranking is probably a little low, but it isn’t far off from where I would slot Weston. I believe he is a big-time player who can contribute early on for the Orange and Blue. Snagging him might be difficult. As of right now, I think Illinois has the lead, though.

Adding someone like Weston would be big for the Illinois program. I think this kid can play multiple positions. The most optimal position would be at the No. 3 spot. But I could also see him subbing in early on at the No. 2 spot as well. There is potential for Weston to be a versatile player for this team.

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