Illinois Basketball: Projected Illini lineup in 2023-24 with Niccolo Moretti

No. 2 Guard

Starter: Jayden Epps (4-star)

I was tempted to put Jayden Epps as the starting point guard, but I think he is best suited as the No. 2 guard for the Orange and Blue. With his bounce and tremendous shooting ability, I want Epps to be our traditional shooting guard.

Brad Underwood is bringing Epps off the bench this season, but he is going to be a full-time starter for the 2023-24 campaign without a doubt. Epps is currently averaging 9.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 45.3% from the field and a team-high 37.5% from three-point range. There is no doubt in my mind that Epps is a superstar, and he will be our starting No. 2 guard next season.

Backup: Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn (4-star)

Illinois has a solid class of 2023 coming into the program. Niccolo Moretti is technically a part of that class, but the player who is ranked the highest out of all of the commits is Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn.

A one-time Purdue commit, Gibbs-Lawhorn was a great flip for the Illini. He has the ability to play both of the backcourt roles, but for now, I will have him as a primary backup to Epps at the No. 2 guard spot. I believe, as a freshman, Gibbs-Lawhorn will see plenty of playing time. He should give rest to the No. 1 and No. 2 guard spots, so he brings flexibility to Underwood’s roster. Look for Gibbs-Lawhorn to make an impact on the team from day one.