While the class of 2023 is just entering their sophomore year of high school, it is never too early for the Illinois basketball team to eye some of 2023’s top talent.
I have mentioned this before, getting in early on a recruit can mean that you have the ability to build a strong relationship with that player over time. That is why I don’t mind the Illini coming in with an offer to a young player like Khoi Thurmon.
Thurmon is a 6-foot point guard from Copley High School and resides in Copley, Ohio. He isn’t rated or ranked by the recruiting sites because he is a member of the class of 2023, but this kid is going to start picking up some big-time offers over the next couple of years.
The offer by Illinois doesn’t come as a surprise. Thurmon has all the talent in the world, and this was one display as a freshman this past season. The talented guard put up 26 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and 3 assists en route to a 59-55 victory over a 15-1 Revere program. He was able to score the final seven points of the game for his Indians squad to clinch the victory.
Copley standout freshman Khoi Thurmon has picked up his first D-1 offer from The University of Illinois! pic.twitter.com/QNGBZaOvkb
— NEO Zone HS Sports (@NEOZoneHS) June 18, 2020
Illinois might have a solid shot at eventually landing Thurmon. He is originally from the Chicago area but moved to Ohio in the last couple of years. Coming back to the state of Illinois might be appealing. As an Illini fan, I sure hope that happens. This kid is going to be something special.
I keep seeing comparisons of Thurmon to James Harden. I understand why people would say that. The kid has a smooth step-back shot. He is also a southpaw, which is something I love. But I also see specks of Steph Curry mixed in there. The handles Thurmon possess is amazing. The kid can draw double teams and find the open man too. He is the complete package.
Where would Thurmon fit on the Illinois roster?
Um, I am not exaggerating when I say that Thurmon would have the starting No. 1 spot from day one. There wouldn’t be a question about who would be currently in that spot. He would take over the No. 1 guard role immediately.
I think Thurmon has a chance to be a top 10 player when the class of 2023 is all said and done. He isn’t in the top 25 currently put out by ESPN, but don’t be surprised if he sneaks up and is one of the best players to come out of this class.
I love this offer by Illinois. The fact more teams haven’t jumped on Thurmon blows my mind. I believe he is going to be a special player at not just the college level, but in the NBA as well.