Illinois Basketball: Projected 2024-25 Illini lineup after the Mikey Lewis miss

No. 5 Center/Forward

Starter: Amani Hansberry (SO)

The No. 5 spot might be a little controversial, but this is how I see the Illinois lineup playing out. I believe there is a chance Amani Hansberry will take over the No. 5 spot for the 2024-25 campaign. I have him in the starting role at this position.

Hansberry is a tremendous freshman who is coming into the program and doing some good things. He has looked impressive in the exhibition games thus far, as he is averaging a double-double. He can score around the basket well, and his rebounding ability is off the charts. There is a reason this kid was the Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year. The one-two punch of Morez Johnson Jr. and Hansberry in the paint is going to be legendary for the Illini.

Backup: Dain Dainja (R-SR)

When people look at this projected starting lineup, I imagine some will argue that Dain Dainja will be the starter at the No. 5 spot. I don’t have that in this lineup, though. I have Dainja, as a redshirt senior, being the primary backup to Hansberry.

Dainja has proved to be a really solid center for the Illini. He has great touch around the hoop, and he is extremely athletic. But I think the talent that came in from the class of 2023 and the talent that is coming in from the 2024 class will jump him in the lineup. I hope Dainja stays around for the 2024-25 campaign because having someone like him in the second rotation is a great luxury. He is a talented player who could really help this program.