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

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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Illinois basketball
Mar 16, 2023; Des Moines, IA, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Luke Goode (10) shoots the ball as Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Eric Musselman reacts during the first half at Wells Fargo Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3 Guard

Starter: Luke Goode

I would imagine most people have a transfer starting in this position, but with Luke Goode returning, I don’t see how you can’t start him for the 2023-24 campaign. This kid has been with the program and remains with the program through thick and thin. Not to mention, he is our best shooter.

Goode finally started to get going last season after dealing with some injury problems. He only played in 10 games, but he was instantly Illinois’ best shooter. He would knock down 42.1% of his three-pointers, which was nearly 10% better than our No. 2. I love what he brings to the table when it comes to shooting and hustle. I think Goode has earned the starting job at the No. 3 spot.

Backup: Marcus Domask

Illinois’ second big transfer portal addition is Marcus Domask. When he first committed, I thought he was a lock to be a starter for the Illini. But with the potential of some players returning, look for Domask to be a primary backup at the No. 3 spot.

I think Domask is going to get a lot of playing time, though. I expect at least 20 minutes per game out of him. Domask would be a great sparkplug for the Illini. He could come off the bench and bring the energy necessary for Illinois to not lose anything when the starters need rest. I think he has a chance to average 8-10 points per game as well. He was a huge addition for the Illinois basketball program.