Illinois Basketball: Terrence Shannon Jr.’s team pulls away in NBA Draft Combine

Illinois basketball guard Terrence Shannon Jr. got the start in the first NBA Combine game of the day.

Just to be invited to the combine is an impressive feat. This achievement by the Illini player is something to be proud of. But now the work really starts, as Shannon is trying to stand out and improve his draft stock each and every day.

Shannon suited up for Team Bailey in Wednesday’s first game of the NBA Combine. His team would end up pounding Team Bradds, 107-88.

The numbers Shannon put up won’t jump off the page, though. He finished the victory with six points, four rebounds, and three assists while going 1-of-3 from the field, 0-fo-2 from three-point range, and 4-of-6 from the free throw line.

I think the number that pops out to me the most is Shannon’s box plus-minus. This number tells you how many points your team is winning or losing by when you are on the court. When Shannon was on the court for Team Bailey, they were up by 31 points. This was the best box plus-minus out of the entire first game.

How to analyze Illinois basketball guard Terrene Shannon Jr.’s first NBA Combine game

I think Shannon had a solid first showing at the NBA Combine. Despite what you might have seen on the court at times with Illinois, he is a well-rounded player.

I believe if Shannon truly focused on being more of a No. 1 guard with No. 2 guard abilities rather than being a No. 2 guard with No. 1 guard abilities, then I think he would blossom. He is extremely versatile, and I would love to see his brain more on display.

Box plus-minus doesn’t tell the entire story, but I think there is something to say for Shannon having the best box plus-minus in the game. That means the team works well and flows better with him on the court. There is something to that.

Overall, a good first day for Shannon. I hope he continues being the well-rounded player we all know he can be and doesn’t try to force shots up in the next showing.