The transfer portal is always a hot topic after a season concludes, and the women’s Illinois basketball team has gotten off to a great start.
Sure, the Illini lost center Shay Bollin a few days ago, but so far, that has been the only transfer portal departure for the Orange and Blue. Shauna Green has done a good job holding on to talent, and now Illinois is starting to add to the roster.
On Saturday night, it was announced that Illinois has landed transfer portal talent, Aaliyah Guyton.
Welcome to the FamILLy, Aaliyah! 🔶🔷
— Illinois Women's Basketball (@IlliniWBB) April 12, 2025
We can't wait to get to work! pic.twitter.com/nZ1H8sb7Nw
Guyton is a big-time guard who suited up for Peoria High School before committing to Iowa from the class of 2024. This past season with the Hawkeyes, Guyton played in 29 games with one start. She averaged 4.7 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game.
If the Guyton name sounds familiar, yes, it is the daughter of former Indiana great, AJ Guyton. Now, the Illini are bringing Guyton back home to do some damage in the Big Ten.
Adding Aaliyah Guyton from the transfer portal boosts the Illinois basketball backcourt tremendously
This was a big commitment for the Illini. We needed backcourt help in the worst way, and Green came through for the Orange and Blue.
Illinois is now getting a player in Guyton who was the No. 58 recruit in the class of 2024. She is also a good three-point shooter, as she shot 37.3% from distance last season with Iowa. On top of that, the need for backcourt bodies is crucial right now.
The Illini have some good pieces heading into next season. Gretchen Dolan and Jasmine Brown-Hagger will do a good job in the backcourt. Illinois will gain so much more depth with Guyton, though.
Just a quick thought on the lineup. I think Illinois goes with three guards. I have Destiny Jackson starting at the No. 1 guard spot. When you bring in a five-star, they are going to start. At the No. 2 guard, I would probably go with Guyton. Dolan would then start on the win at the No. 3 spot. Brown-Hagger would then be the crucial bench player for the Illini.
Illinois is going to have a powerful team next season. We needed more depth, and Green came through in a big way. The expectations are rising for this program.