Illinois basketball transfer portal departures, where are they now?

RJ Melendez

Illinois was able to snag a big versatile forward from the class of 2021 when RJ Melendez picked us. He was a good player who could really help this program with his athletic ability.

Coming out of Central Pointe Christian High School in Florida, Melendez was a four-star recruit who was ranked as the No. 94 player in the class of 2021. He was also the No. 18 small forward in the country and the No. 18 player coming out of Florida.

Melendez picked Illinois over numerous other programs, and this looked like a great decision for both parties. As a freshman, Melendez started to get some playing time. He played in 22 games and even started a contest. He averaged 3.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per game that season.

As a sophomore, Melendez continued to improve. In 32 games, 18 of which were starts, Melendez averaged 6.0 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.

I was hoping Melendez’s junior year was going to be his breakout season with the program. He clearly had good ability, and I wanted to see that come to fruition. But, sadly, Melendez entered the transfer portal on April 3, 2023. Just two weeks later, he committed to Georgia.

This past season with the Bulldogs, Melendez saw about the same playing time. He played in 36 games and started seven of those contests. He averaged 9.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. Georgia finished 20-17 and made the NIT.