Illinois Basketball: Projected Illini lineup to start the 2021-22 season

No. 5 Center/Forward

Starter: Coleman Hawkins

This is where the Illinois lineup gets a big change. Without Kofi Cockburn in the lineup, I am going to move Coleman Hawkins over to the starting No. 5 spot on the team. I know this is going to get some backlash, but I think this is the best option for the Illini in the first three games.

Brad Underwood has a tendency to go with a more athletic lineup. He has clearly started to trust Hawkins more on the court, and that is why I think he should start the season. Hawkins has also played a lot of minutes this preseason. He actually received the start in the Indiana (PA) exhibition game due to some injuries. Hawkins was impressive in the 24 minutes on the court as well. He ended the night with 16 points, nine rebounds, one assist, and one block. This kid has a lot of talent and size.

Backup: Omar Payne

I think most people believe Omar Payne should be the starter for the first three games, but this wouldn’t make sense to me. While I love Payne’s size, I think the Illini are limited with him in the starting lineup.

Payne is not good on the offensive end of the court. He scored a total of six points this preseason and played a total of 18 minutes. I don’t think Underwood trusts him enough to start as well. With that behind said, Payne is good on the defensive end. He is a long player who can block shots. In a way, he reminds me a little of Nnanna Egwu. There is definitely a role for Payne on this team, but Hawkins should get the start.