Top 5 key recruits for Illinois basketball in the class of 2026

Illinois basketball could build a special class of 2026 if we could pull in some of these top recruits.
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3. Jasiah Jervis

Illinois is looking for difference-makers in the class of 2026. In 2024-25, this program proved that freshmen can make a huge difference. So, landing someone like Jasiah Jervis is crucial to Illinois’ success.

Jervis is a 6-foot-4, 180-pound small forward from Archbishop Stepinac High School in New York. He is rated as a four-star recruit and ranked as the No. 103 player in the class of 2026. He is also the No. 38 small forward in the country and the No. 5 player coming out of New York.

Back in March, Illinois was doing some East Coast recruiting and watched Jervis on the court. That is when we offered him a scholarship.

I love a lot about Jervis’ game. He is more of a utility player than a specialist. Jervis can shoot from anywhere on the court. He has good bounce to his game and is quick off the dribble. His ability to get to the rim is solid as well.

Illinois always needs a player like Jervis. He is someone who could play the No. 2 or No. 3 spots on the floor. Brad Underwood always has this type of player at some point. Jervis has a similar feel to Ty Rodgers, but Jervis can shoot much better. While he is a sub-100 recruit, keep an eye on Jervis and where he ends up. I think he has a bright future, and I hope it is with Illinois.