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Projected Illinois basketball lineup after adding Jake Davis and losing Dain Dainja

Illinois basketball had a couple of changes to the roster on Monday, so a new projected Illini lineup for the 2024-25 season had to be published.

By Rees Woodcock

Mar 23, 2024; Omaha, NE, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood reacts during the
Mar 23, 2024; Omaha, NE, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood reacts during the / Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports
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No. 4 Forward

Starter: Amani Hansberry (SO)

It is time to see what Amani Hansberry can do in the starting lineup. The former Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year was a surprising get for the Illini in the class of 2023, but he looked really good when on the court.

Hansberry ended up averaging 2.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in the 19 games he played for the Illini as a freshman. He only saw 7.5 minutes per game, though. That number is sure to skyrocket next season. I think Hansberry could turn into a great piece for the Illini. He has a great shot for his size, and he can bang around in the paint. I want that on the roster.

Backup: Transfer Portal Player (someone who can stretch the floor)

Illinois really doesn’t have a backup to Hansberry right now. We need to go into the transfer portal and snag a nice forward who can stretch the floor.

My ideal candidate for the primary backup role at the No. 4 spot would be someone who is 6-foot-8 and can shoot the basketball. I don’t just want a slasher. I need someone who can step out and shoot the three-point shot. I think Quincy Guerrier did a great job in this role last season. Give me someone like him again.

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