Projected Illinois basketball lineup with the addition of Brandon Lee

No. 5 Center

Starter: Morez Johnson Jr. (SO)

You don’t land a borderline McDonald’s All-American and not start him. I think Morez Johnson Jr. has a chance to be one of the best big men in the history of the Illinois basketball program.

Johnson is coming to Champaign with a ton of potential. He was a consensus top-40 recruit, and he is someone who impressed with his versatility on the floor. Johnson is more of a traditional big man, as he can play back to the basket. But don’t sleep on his shooting ability from all levels. This kid is going to surprise some people with his polish. I think Johnson comes in and starts every game as long as he is with the program.

Backup: Tomislav Ivisic (SO)

It is impressive the depth Illinois has built for the upcoming 2024-25 season. Landing a freshman like Tomislav Ivisic is going to solidify the Illinois frontcourt.

Ivisic is a great overseas player who can help lock down the paint for the Illini. The combination of Ivisic and Johnson is going to be a fun one-two punch. Not only do I see Ivisic as the primary backup at the No. 5 spot, but I could see him and Johnson on the floor at the same time. These two monsters in the paint are going to be dominating. I can’t wait to see them unleashed on the Big Ten.