Illinois Basketball: Coleman Hawkins returning to the Illini

Illinois basketball is getting back one of the most unique big men in the college game.

The last few seasons for the Illini have been quite the ride. We have won a lot of games during this time, and one of the reasons for the success was Coleman Hawkins.

After three years with the program, Hawkins decided to enter the 2023 NBA Draft on March 28. He wanted to still keep his eligibility, though. This gave Illini fans some hope that he would return to Champaign for one more go at a national title.

On Wednesday, that hope ended up turning into a reality. Hawkins would take to social media to announce that he is BACK!

Illinois basketball forward Coleman Hawkins joins a special cast for the 2023-24 campaign

Hawkins would improve every season in an Illinois jersey. In year one, he averaged 1.4 points and 0.8 rebounds per contest. By his junior year in Champaign, he would average 9.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game.

The combination of size and versatility is what makes Hawkins an intriguing NBA prospect. Checking in at 6-foot-10, he is someone who can do everything on the court. Hawkins has solid handles, he can shoot well from anywhere, and his rebounding ability is decent.

From day one, I have said that I expected Hawkins to stay in the NBA Draft. I thought everything he brought to the table would wow the NBA scouts. But clearly, the temptation of staying at Illinois and the great NIL money was too much to pass up.

Illinois is now getting back one of the most unique players in the college game. He rejoins arguably the best roster in the Big Ten and a team that could easily be top 10 to start the season. Buckle up Illini fans, this should be a fun ride.