Illinois Basketball: Top 5 NBA prospects on the Illini roster

By Max Feldman | Aug 22, 2020

IOWA CITY. IA- FEBRUARY 02: Illinois head coach Brad Underwood has words with Illinois guard Ayo Dosunmu (11) during a time out during a Big Ten Conference basketball game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Iowa Hawkeyes at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa City Ia, on February 02, 2020. Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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CHAMPAIGN, IL – MARCH 01: Head coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini salutes the fans following the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at State Farm Center on March 1, 2020 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

4. Austin Hutcherson

Draft Year Projection: 2022 NBA Draft

Picking between Hutcherson and Jacob Grandison was tough here, but I will take my shot with the Wesleyan (DIII) transfer. Hutcherson’s updated measurements are up to 6-7 and 190 pounds, making him a prototypical two-way wing at the next level.

Hutcherson was an elite shooter in a highly competitive league on the east coast, as he lead the NESAC in scoring, three-pointers, and free throw percentage, and he also led his team in assists and steals.

Molded in the shape of 2020 NBA Draft prospect, Devin Vassell, and 2021 NBA Draft prospect, Chris Duarte, Hutcherson’s perimeter prowess combined with an improving body and advanced defensive instincts comprise an under the radar NBA prospect on this Illini roster.

Of course, Hutcherson needs to prove he can make the jump to Big Ten basketball, but he has two years to continue adding strength and find consistency on the perimeter.

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