No. 3 Guard/Forward
Starter: Tre White (JR)
On top of Illinois having quite possibly a better scoring team next season, I think there is a solid chance we have a better rebounding team as well. Adding Tre White this offseason was a big move for the rebounding department.
White has played for two teams in two seasons thus far. He started out at USC in 2022-23, and he averaged 9.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game with the Trojans. He then played for Louisville last season and averaged 12.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. Now the Illini are getting White. He isn’t a great three-point shooter, but this kid can slash, and he is a good rebounder. I like White starting at the No. 3 spot next season.
Backup: Jake Davis (SO)
Illinois was also able to secure some solid rotation shooting. We needed someone who could come off the bench and give the program points from the outside. That someone is Jake Davis.
Davis played his freshman season at Mercer in 2023-24. He averaged 9.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game for the Bears. Illinois now receives this 6-foot-6, 220-pound soon-to-be sophomore. Davis is great at shooting, as he hit 38.7% from three-point range last season. I love Davis coming off the bench and knocking down shots. Look for him to get 12-17 minutes each game and to average something like 8.5 points per game as the primary backup at the No. 3 spot.
Backup: Transfer Portal (AJ Storr)
Again, the transfer portal embers remain hot. I think Illinois has a great chance to add some wing help in the form of AJ Storr.
Storr, who was once committed to Illinois, spent his first two seasons with St. John’s and Wisconsin. He is now in the transfer portal and the NBA Draft. If he pulls out of the draft process, look for Illinois to be a player. Adding Storr would instantly make him a starter at the No. 3 spot. The playmaking ability of Storr jumps off the page. This would be a huge addition for the Orange and Blue.