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

No. 5 Center/Forward

Starter: Dain Dainja (4-star)

Over the past few games, Brad Underwood has inserted Dain Dainja into the Illinois starting lineup. This was a good move, as the Illini have won three out of the past four contests.

Dainja has been great for the Orange and Blue this season. He has only averaged 18.4 minutes in each contest but is putting up 9.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks each night. I think Dainja is going to be starting for the rest of the time he is in Champaign. Look for him to have the starting No. 5 spot for the Illini when the 2023-24 rolls around.

Backup: Zacharie Perrin (3-star)

I will be curious to see what Illinois has in Zacharie Perrin. The talented big man joined the Illini program and should be ready to go by next season.

Perrin is only a three-star recruit, but I think he is flying under the radar. This kid has a ton of athletic ability, and his coordination is impressive. I fully expect Perrin to be the primary backup to Dainja next season. Don’t be surprised if he sees decent playing time as well. I think the future is bright for Perrin.

Backup: Brandon Lieb (3-star)

Brandon Lieb has a deep bench role for Illinois this season, and I don’t see that changing during his final season with the program. I have Lieb as a second backup at the No. 5 spot for the 2023-24 campaign.