Illinois Basketball: 5 big questions for the Illini against Marquette

4. Does Illinois keep Quincy Guerrier a main piece?

Coming into the 2023-24 campaign, there were a couple of players most outlets were talking about. Terrence Shannon Jr. and Coleman Hawkins were the two NBA potential talents on the team.

While these two players are great in their own right, Illinois also brought in a lot of talent via the transfer portal. One of the big names the Illini were able to land was Quincy Guerrier. The star forward found his way to Champaign after four years in the college ranks.

I believe Guerrier is a key piece for the Illinois basketball program this season. That is why one of the big questions I have for Tuesday night is; does Illinois keep Guerrier as one of the main pieces on the team?

Guerrier had kind of a slow first game against Eastern Illinois. He finished with four points, one rebound, and one block in 20 minutes of action. He also failed to hit a shot.

I thought Brad Underwood and the Illinois coaching staff used Guerrier much better in the Oakland game, though. Guerrier was more on the block and got his hand in the dirt. He played 28 minutes against the Golden Grizzlies and finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds, one block, and one assist. He also hit 5-of-9 from the field.

Against Marquette, I would like to see Guerrier continue to play around the basket. He can stretch the floor and pull the forwards out, but Guerrier does his best work around the hoop. His athletic ability is tough to match up against, and he has great touch. Let’s keep Guerrier involved and make him a big part of the Illinois success story.