Illinois basketball adds rare midseason help with big commitment

It is not every day the Illinois basketball team can add a commitment and get that player to play right away.

On Monday afternoon, the Illini did just that. Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress reported that Illinois has landed the commitment of Toni Bilic.

According to the reports, Bilic will join the program here shortly and will be available to play immediately. This is a nice boost to an Illinois roster that was needing it after a tough loss to Nebraska

Illinois is getting a nice player in Bilic. He isn’t going to blow you away with his ability, but he is someone who could help put points on the board.

Bilic’s game reminds me of David Mirkovic. Bilic has a little more spring to his step, and he has the ability to create his shot more than Mirkovic.

The biggest concern I have is defense. I am not sure we are going to get an upgrade at all on defense. In fact, the gelling process and communication will be hard, considering he is being dropped into this team in the middle of the season.

Illinois should see a nice depth boost with the addition of Toni Bilic

It wouldn’t shock me to see Brad Underwood not unleash Bilic until mid-January. He needs time to work with his teammates, so there is a learning curve.

When he does start playing, Bilic should give the Illini a nice shot in the arm off the bench. We need more bench scoring, as Zvonimir Ivisic has been our best scoring option this season. We don’t have anyone who can step out and knock down shots from anywhere besides Ivisic.

I welcome any new addition mid-season. Underwood and his coaching staff are doing great with recruiting, and this interesting player has a chance to help us get to the promised land.