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Illinois Basketball: Potential projected Illini lineup with recent transfer portal additions

By Rees Woodcock

Mar 2, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood reacts to the Illinois fighting Illini fans before the start of Thursday’s game with the Michigan Wolverines at State Farm Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 2, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood reacts to the Illinois fighting Illini fans before the start of Thursday’s game with the Michigan Wolverines at State Farm Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO – MARCH 15: Justin Harmon #0 of the Utah Valley Wolverines reacts after hitting a three-pointer against the New Mexico Lobos during the second half of the first round game in the 2023 National Invitation Tournament at The Pit on March 15, 2023 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Wolverines defeated the Lobos 83-69. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images) /

No. 2 Guard

Starter: Justin Harmon

On Monday, Illinois was able to land two impactful players from the transfer portal. One of those players was guard, Justin Harmon. With the way the roster is constructed, I have Harmon starting at the No. 2 guard spot for the Illini.

The backcourt for Illinois could be comprised of two bulldogs this upcoming season. Terrence Shannon Jr. is a monster going to the rim, and he averaged 17.2 points per game in 2022-23. Harmon would then be his running mate, and he is a similar style player to Shannon. Harmon also averaged 14 points per game with Utah Valley last season. Two big scoring threats who can hit shots from deep and get to the rim. That makes Illinois dangerous.

Backup: Sencire Harris

I believe Sencire Harris is going to be a huge piece for the Illinois basketball program this upcoming season. While I have him coming off the bench at the No. 2 guard spot, I think he still gets nearly 20 minutes per contest.

Harris is going to be a sparkplug on defense. When opposing offenses start to get going, Brad Underwood can sub-in Harris and shut them down. I am also excited to see Harris’ development this offseason. If he works on his shooting, then there is no telling the heights this kid can reach. It wouldn’t shock me to see him get a lot of starts next season as well.

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