Illinois Basketball: Projected Illini lineup with Terrence Shannon Jr

No. 5 Forward/Center

Starter: Coleman Hawkins

The No. 5 spot is an area that is up for debate, but I believe Brad Underwood could go athletic in this spot. I want someone who knows his style of play and who can stretch the floor. I think that someone should be Coleman Hawkins.

Hawkins is the most experienced returning player for the Illini. He had a great sophomore year where he put up 5.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Down the stretch for the Orange and Blue, Hawkins was one of the most impactful players on the team. He was arguably our best player on the court in the NCAA tournament. I see Hawkins emerging as a great option at the starting No. 5 spot this upcoming season.

Backup: Dain Dainja

Illinois brought in a great backup option at the No. 5 spot in late 2021. Dain Dainja wasn’t seeing playing time with Baylor, so he decided to transfer. Illinois landed the big man and now he has a chance to make an impact for the Illini. Dainja only played a few games for the Bears, but he has the body to be dominant on the inside. I think Hawkins should start, but Dainja will give him a run for his money as the primary backup at the No. 5 spot.

Backup: Brandon Lieb

I don’t expect much in the way of meaningful minutes for Brandon Lieb during the 2022-23 campaign. The only time we see him on the court is when we are blowing other teams out of the water.

Backup: Scholarship

Illinois needs to find another suitable big man for the future. I would love for Hawkins to move back over to the No. 4 spot, which is natural for his game. That means Illinois needs to find a Kofi-like player to fill this final scholarship. If we can get a big man sometime this offseason, then I will feel more comfortable about the future.