Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini loss to Arkansas

5. Look for Illinois to be back next season

Speaking of next season, I think all Illinois basketball fans should be excited about what is coming down the pipeline.

Illinois basketball might have disappointed you this season, but trust me when I say, Illinois will be back in the NCAA tournament next year.

That might sound like a crazy pipe dream, but I think the Illini will be a better program in 2023-24. We are going to be a more cohesive unit that is wanting to win.

The trio of great freshmen will be back. Ty Rodgers, Sencire Harris, and Jayden Epps will all have a big role on this team and be some type of leader.

Luke Goode missed most of this season, but as soon as he stepped on the floor, he was instantly the best shooter we had on the team. He is only going to be a junior next year, and there is a starting spot available for the Fort Wayne Fireball.

Let’s not forget, this was Dain Dainja’s first year starting at the college level. I believe he will be a junior next season and ready to take over the big ten. In addition to Dainja, RJ Melendez will be looked to for leadership as well.

And then we have the class of 2023 coming in. Amani Hansberry just won the Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year. His 6-foot-8, 225-pound, size should come in and make an impact. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn is ready to get big minutes in the backcourt as well. Both talents are four-star recruits.

Illinois also has a wildcard in Niccolo Moretti. He joined the program a few months back and will be a nice depth piece at point guard.

While the season didn’t end well and most Illinois fans probably have a bad taste in their mouth, I think we need to be positive about the future. This team is about to look different but better in 2023-24.