THE COLLEGE BASKETBALL NOSTALGIC

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates: Final #s

7/21/2026

Here's how former Fighting Illini fared during the recently completed NBA summer league.

Keaton Wagler

Los Angeles Clippers

7/9/26: 26:34 minutes played, 1/7 from the field, 1/5 from three, 3/4 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 5 fouls, 7 points, -23
7/12/26: 27:57 minutes played, 6/16 from the field, 4/7 from three, 3/4 from the foul line, 1 rebound, 4 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 7 fouls, 23 points, +18

7/14/26: 29:45 minutes played, 6/15 from the field, 1/5 from three, 2/2 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 4 fouls, 16 points, -17
7/15/26: Inactive.
7/17/26: 28:29 minutes played, 9/19 from the field, 2/7 from three, 4/5 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4 turnovers, 1 foul, 26 points, +9

Kylan Boswell

Charlotte Hornets

7/9/26: 14:12 minutes played, 0/3 from the field, 0/2 from three, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 0 points, +6
7/11/26: 14:49 minutes played, 3/3 from the field, 2/2 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 0 fouls, 8 points, +8

7/12/26: 11:03 minutes played, 2/3 from the field, 0/0 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 4 points, -4
7/15/26: 25:27 minutes played, 4/7 from the field, 3/5 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 4 turnovers, 1 foul, 11 points, -5
7/17/26: 10:43 minutes played, 1/2 from the field, 0/1 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 2 points, +4

Ben Humrichous

Brooklyn Nets

7/4/26: 20:14 minutes played, 2/6 from the field, 2/5 from three, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 6 points, -12
7/5/26: 29:06 minutes played, 5/13 from the field, 5/12 from three, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 15 points, +21

7/6/26: DNP - Coach's Decision

7/10/26: 18:35 minutes played, 3/5 from the field, 3/5 from three, 5 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 2 fouls, 9 points, +20
7/11/26: 0/5 from the field, 0/5 from three, 1/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 1 point, -16
7/14/26: 5:31 minutes played, 1/1 from the field, 1/1 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 0 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 3 points, +6
7/16/26: DNP - Coach's decision
7/19/26: 26:03 minutes played, 2/6 from the field, 2/6 from three, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 6 points, +28

Dain Dainja

Brooklyn Nets

7/5/26: 16:57 minutes played, 5/8 from the field, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 10 points, +22
7/6/26: 8:16 minutes played, 1/2 from the field, 1/3 from the foul line, 7 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 4 points, -3
7/10/26: 12:23 minutes played, 3/5 from the field, 6 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 personal foul, 6 points, -3

7/11/26: 7:55 minutes played, 0/2 from the field, 3 rebounds, 1 assists, 2 fouls, 0 points, -3
7/14/26: 11:31 minutes played, 0/2 from the field, 0/0 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls, 0 points, +1
7/16/25: 14:31 minutes played, 4/4 from the field, 0/0 from three, 3/3 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 4 fouls, 14 points, +3
7/19/26: 23:58 minutes played, 7/9 from the field, 0/0 from three, 0/2 from the foul line, 8 rebounds, 0 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocks, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 14 points, +18

Kasparas Jakucionis

Milwaukee Bucks

7/10/26: 21:23 minutes played, 2/10 from the field, 2/3 from three, 2/3 from the foul line, 3 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 5 fouls, 11 points, -5

7/12/26: 22:01 minutes played, 3/9 from the field,1/3 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 0 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 5 turnovers, 1 foul, 7 points, -7
7/13/26: DNP - Coach's decision.
7/15/26: Inactive
7/18/26: Inactive

Will Riley

Washington Wizards

7/9/26: 28:36 minutes played, 5/12 from the field, 1/2 from three, 5/6 from the foul line, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 3 fouls, 18 points, +4
7/12/26: 28:33 minutes played: 9/14 from the field, 6/8 from three, 5/6 from the foul line, 6

rebounds, 3 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 3 fouls, 32 points, +21

7/14/26 - Shut down for rest of summer league
7/15/26: Shut down for summer league
7/18/26: Inactive

Justin Harmon

Utah Jazz

7/4/26: 16:13 minutes played, 7/8 from the field, 0/0 from three, 1/1 from the foul line, 3 rebounds, 0 assists, 3 steals, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 1 foul, 15 points, +1
7/6/26: 15:19 minutes played, 2/3 from the field, 1/1 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 1 rebound, 0 assists, 0 steals, 2 blocks, 0 turnovers, 3 fouls, 5 points, +3
7/7/26: 24:37 minutes played, 5/7 from the field, 1/2 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 1 turnover, 5 fouls, 11 points, +3
7/12/26: DNP - Coaches Decision

7/13/26: 19:37 minutes played, 5/11 from the field, 1/4 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls, 11 points, +9
7/15/26: 14:49 minutes played, 1/5 from the field, 0/3 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 2 points, -3
7/17/26: 20:17 minutes played, 7/13 from the field, 1/3 from three, 6/6 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 21 points, +8

Coleman Hawkins

Denver Nuggets

7/10/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/11/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/14/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/16/26: DNP - Coach's decision
7/1926: 15:34 minutes played, 1/3 from the field, 1/2 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 3 points, +0

Luke Goode

Los Angeles Lakers

7/3/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/5/26: 16:55 minutes played, 1/3 from the field, 1/2 from three, 1 rebound, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 4 fouls, 3 points, +12
7/6/26: 15:03 minutes played, 3/5 from the field, 3/5 from three, 2 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 1 foul, 9 points, +9
7/10/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/11/26: 10:20 minutes played, 0/1 from the field, 0/1 from three, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0

blocks, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls, 0 points, +8

7/14/26: DNP - Coach's Decision
7/16/25: 2:52 minutes played, 0/1 from the field, 0/1 from three, 1 rebound, 1 foul, 0 points, -5
7/18/26: DNP - Coach's decision

Morez Johnson Jr.

Dallas Mavericks

7/9/26: 32:24 minutes played, 12/17 from the field, 1/4 from three, 2/2 from the foul line, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks, 2 turnovers, 7 fouls, 27 points, +/- 0
7/11/26: 28:14 minutes played, 4/8 from the field, 0/1 from three, 1/2 from the foul line, 5 rebounds, 0 assists, 2 steals, 4 blocks, 1 turnover, 7 fouls, 10 points, -22
7/13/26: DNP - Coach's decision.
7/16/25: DNP - Coach's decision

7/17/26: DNP - Coach's decision

R.J. Melendez

San Antonio Spurs

7/3/26: 16:47 minutes played, 2/5 from the field, 2/3 from three, 2 rebounds, 4 blocks, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 6 points, +1
7/5/26: 15:43 minutes played, 1/4 from the field, 1/2 from three, 1/1 from the foul line, 5 rebounds, 0 assists, 1 steal, 2 blocks, 3 turnovers, 2 fouls, 5 points, -11

7/6/26: 10:07 minutes played, 0/3 from the field, 0/3 from three, 1/2 from the foul line, 0 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 3 blocks, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 2 points, -15
7/9/26: 8:41 minutes played, 1/3 from the field, 0/1 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 0 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 2 fouls, 2 points, -7
7/11/26: 8:13 minutes played, 2/3 from the field, 1/2 from three, 4 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 0 fouls, 5 points, +14
7/12/26: 11:53 minutes played, 1/3 from the field, 1/3 from three, 3/3 from the foul lie, 2 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 foul, 9 points, -1
7/15/26: 14:02 minutes played, 2/7 from the field, 0/3 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 2 fouls, 4 points, +21
7/18/26: 17:26 minutes played, 5/7 from the field, 2/3 from three, 1/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 3 fouls, 13 points, +9

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - 7/19

7/20/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Ben Humrichous

Brooklyn Nets

7/19/26: 26:03 minutes played, 2/6 from the field, 2/6 from three, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 6 points, +28

Dain Dainja

Brooklyn Nets

7/19/26: 23:58 minutes played, 7/9 from the field, 0/0 from three, 0/2 from the foul line, 8 rebounds, 0 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocks, 2 turnovers, 1 foul, 14 points, +18

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - 7/18

7/19/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Saturday, July 18, 2026.

R.J. Melendez

San Antonio Spurs

7/18/26: 17:26 minutes played, 5/7 from the field, 2/3 from three, 1/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 3 fouls, 13 points, +9

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - July 17th

7/18/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Friday, July 17, 2026.

Keaton Wagler

Los Angeles Clippers

7/17/26: 28:29 minutes played, 9/19 from the field, 2/7 from three, 4/5 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 4 turnovers, 1 foul, 26 points, +9

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - July 16th

7/17/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Dain Dainja

Brooklyn Nets

7/16/25: 14:31 minutes played, 4/4 from the field, 0/0 from three, 3/3 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 4 fouls, 14 points, +3

Ben Humrichous

Brooklyn Nets

7/16/25: DNP - Coach's decision

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - July 15th

7/16/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

Kylan Boswell

Charlotte Hornets

7/15/26: 25:27 minutes played, 4/7 from the field, 3/5 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 4 turnovers, 1 foul, 11 points, -5

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates - July 14th

7/15/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

Keaton Wagler

Los Angeles Clippers

7/14/26: 29:45 minutes played, 6/15 from the field, 1/5 from three, 2/2 from the foul line, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 4 fouls, 16 points, -17

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer Leagues Updates - July 13th

7/14/2026

Here's how former Illini fared during NBA Summer League games played yesterday, Monday, July 13, 2026.

Justin Harmon

Utah Jazz

7/13/26: 19:37 minutes played, 5/11 from the field, 1/4 from three, 0/0 from the foul line, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 2 turnovers, 2 fouls, 11 points, +9

Illinois Fighting Illini NBA Summer League Updates for 7/4-12

7/13/2026

Here is how former Illini men's basketball players are faring so far during the NBA Summer League.

Keaton Wagler

Los Angeles Clippers

7/9/26: 26:34 minutes played, 1/7 from the field, 1/5 from three, 3/4 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 5 fouls, 7 points, -23
7/12/26: 27:57 minutes played, 6/16 from the field, 4/7 from three, 3/4 from the foul line, 1 rebound, 4 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 3 turnovers, 7 fouls, 23 points, +18

Kylan Boswell

Charlotte Hornets

7/9/26: 14:12 minutes played, 0/3 from the field, 0/2 from three, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 0 points, +6
7/11/26: 14:49 minutes played, 3/3 from the field, 2/2 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 0 turnovers, 0 fouls, 8 points, +8

7/12/26: 11:03 minutes played, 2/3 from the field, 0/0 from three, 0/1 from the foul line, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 turnover, 1 foul, 4 points, -4

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30 Honorable Mention: My Favorite Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, The OGs

7/12/2026

When coming up with my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my fandom, I decided to focus from the start of the 1996-97 season, when my fandom for the Illini really developed.

Of course, growing up in Chicago as a kid, I was familiar with Illini basketball. To this day, I still remember Illinois coming back on Easter Sunday to beat Syracuse in the Elite Eight of the 1989 NCAA Tournament. I also remember a tough tournament loss to Vanderbilt during the second round of the 1993 NCAA Tournament, an amazing victory at Duke at the start of the 1995-96 season, and the controversial decision to move on from Lou Henson prior to the end of that same season.

Honestly, I learned a lot about Illinois men's basketball by reading the backs of NBA Hoops Basketball Cards, specifically from the 1990-91 season. Those cards were an early portal into which players went to Illinois.

With that in mind, I used these basketball cards not only to learn which players went to Illinois and DePaul (my favorite college basketball program as a kid) but to decide whom I should be rooting for beyond my beloved Chicago Bulls of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Horace Grant, John Paxson, Bill Cartwright and others.

Here's who were my favorite Illinois basketball players in the pros when I was a kid.

#1: Kendall Gill

I'll never forget Gill collapsing to the court, with blood on his uniform and teammates swarming him, right after Illinois completed the Syracuse comeback to advance to the 1989 NCAA Final Four. Drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, Gill was one of my favorite non-Bulls because of his allegiances to the Illini. Gill also got bonus points for his cool flattop and

fade, and the fact he was on the Charlotte Hornets, probably the most popular fashion team for kid fans of the NBA at the time. For some reason, young me always equated Gill with Michael Jordan, probably because the former Illini was also a shooting guard. Gill never became a superstar in the NBA, though he was a very solid starter for the Hornets and Seattle SuperSonics before finishing his career with the New Jersey Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves and even the Bulls!

Illinois Fighting Illini Men's Basketball Summer Updates (7/11)

7/11/2026

As I was on vacation the week prior to the Fourth of July and since have been working on a fantasy draft for my Illini 30 for 30 series, here are some pertinent updates around the Illinois men's basketball program.

1. Last Sunday, Illinois transfer Mihailo Petrovic committed to Seton Hall. I was unsure if Petrovic would stay in college basketball or go back playing overseas, but he has decided to play for the Pirates and Head Coach Shaheen Holloway. Here's hoping Mihailo will get some more consistent playing time at Seton Hall.

2. On Tuesday, it was announced that Illinois will be playing Fran McCaffery's Penn team on November 5th at State Farm Center as part of its nonconference schedule. Of course, this game will be a rematch of the Illini's first round victory against the Quakers during the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

3. NBA Summer League has begun. Here are where former Illini are playing.

Keaton Wagler, Los Angeles Clippers.
Kylan Boswell, Charlotte Hornets.
Ben Humrichous and Dain Dainja, Brooklyn Nets.
Kasparas Jakucionis, Milwaukee Bucks.
Will Riley, Washington Wizards.
Justin Harmon, Utah Jazz.
Coleman Hawkins, Denver Nuggets.
Luke Goode, Los Angeles Lakers.
Morez Johnson, Dallas Mavericks.
RJ Melendez, San Antonio Spurs.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team Underwood

7/10/2026

Let's break down Team Brad Underwood from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Underwood
PG: Frank Williams (#6 Overall Pick)
SG: Brandon Paul (#19 Overall Pick)
SF: David Mirkovic (#7 Overall Pick)
PF: Marcus Arnold (#30 Overall Pick)
C: Tomislav Ivisic (#18 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap

Head Coach Brad Underwood took advantage of Frank Williams falling to the end of the first round and then immediately added David Mirkovic with the first pick of the second round. Underwood could not pass up on the "Original Balkan" Tomislav Ivisic with the last pick of the third round and swooped in to take Brandon Paul with the first pick of the fourth round, forming a tantalizing backcourt with Williams. With the last pick of the draft, Underwood took the last player available, Marcus Arnold, who does not fit the roster but will serve a valuable role as a screener and banger down low.

One-Word Description of This Team: SPACING!

Underwood may have the most talented player on all six teams in Williams, who will be operating in the pick and roll with Mirkovic and Ivisic quite often. The goal will be for Williams to break down the defense and open up the three-point shooting for this team. Paul will be a dangerous cutter while Arnold could benefit on the box with his man sagging off to contain a penetrating Williams, who will have the chance to be a maestro of a highly efficient offense. This Illinois team will try to punish opponents with its size.

Concerns: Chemistry, Personality Fits, Defensive Quickness, How to Use Arnold

Underwood and Williams could be a beautiful marriage or a quick divorce. Williams loves to play the game but sometimes looks disinterested; how does Underwood get the most out of the super-talented point guard? Having a fiery Mirkovic and steady Ivisic should help push Williams. While Williams and Paul could be a devastating backcourt defensively, Illinois lacks foot speed in the frontcourt. How will this team counter opponents that spread out Arnold and Mirkovic, and attack off the dribble? Expect Illinois to throw out a lot of 2-3 zone with this team. Arnold's lack of shooting and foot speed are problematic as he must play strictly in the post. He is a hard worker, though, and will be content doing his job, whether or not he gets any shots at all.

Overall Thoughts:

This team does not have the most ideal roster construction based upon draft position, but Underwood has shown an ability to adapt his offense to his personnel each and every season. If Williams is playing at his best self, this team can beat anyone. Paul feels like a big wildcard as a slasher and defender, and Mirkovic rarely gets thrown off his game. Underwood will need Ivisic to post up as he is the tallest player of any Illini on all six teams. This is an Underwood team that looks it could be a boom or bust based upon how all the pieces fit together. Mirkovic is such an engaging personality and good teammate that all these worries could be for naught, and this team could be really tough to defeat with its talent and size.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team John Groce

7/9/2026

Let's break down Team John Groce from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Groce
PG: Trent Frazier (#20 Overall Pick)
SG: Terrence Shannon Jr. (#5 Overall Pick)
SF: Will Riley (#17 Overall Pick)
PF: Tyler Griffey (#29 Overall Pick)
C: Morez Johnson Jr. (#8 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap

John Groce certainly fared better hitting during the draft than on the recruiting trail, beginning with his first round pick of Terrence Shannon Jr., an unstoppable bowling ball going downhill when driving the ball to the basket. Groce surprised everyone in Round Two by adding man child Morez Johnson, a beast down low who entered college with the musculature of a senior. Groce continued to compile talent, nabbing gifted scorer Will Riley in the third round. To add some more toughness to his squad, Groce selected Trent Frazier in the fourth round to be his starting point guard and defensive stopper. With his final pick, Groce added power forward Tyler Griffey to provide some much needed floor spacing and outside shooting.

One-Word Description of This Team: ATHLETIC!

Groce made athleticism a top priority with his top two picks, as Shannon and Johnson are matchup nightmares. Groce couldn't pass up on the gifted scoring of the lanky Riley, a natural-born scorer and killer. Frazier provides this team stability as a ball handler, shooter and defender while Griffey makes up for his lack of athleticism with his basketball IQ. This team should be hard to stop with Shannon attacking from the ring, Riley playing a pick and roll game with the rim-running Johnson, and Frazier able to isolate and crossover into the three ball.

Concerns: A Lot of Mouths to Feed, Ball Dominance, Half Court Offense against Tough Defenses

Griffey will not be getting a lot of looks on this team, and Frazier will definitely have to take a step back on offense as Groce keeps Shannon, Riley and Johnson involved. At times, Shannon and Riley can dominate the ball. How this team fares against defensive-minded clubs that slow down and grind out games will be interesting and could be problematic. This team is best suited playing up tempo and getting quick shots off simplistic offense. Defensively, Riley and Griffey will be where opposing teams attack.

Overall Thoughts

On paper, this is a quite talented team, though I worry if there will be enough offensive structure against stout defenses that muck up and slow down the game. The faster this team plays, the better, especially with Griffey trailing as a three-point shooting big man. Frazier will be the most important player keeping all of this talent together and on the same page. If it clicks, Shannon and Riley could be the most explosive 1-2 punch on any of these teams.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team Bruce Weber

7/8/2026

Let's break down Team Bruce Weber from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Weber
PG: Marcus Domask (#9 Overall Pick)
SG: Luther Head (#4 Overall Pick)
SF: Sergio McClain (#16 Overall Pick)
PF: Mike Davis (#28 Overall Pick)
C: Robert Archibald (#21 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap

Head Coach Bruce Weber began by picking one of his three superstar guards from the 2005 National Runner Up, Luther Head, who will be the unquestioned go-to guy on this team. Weber pulled off a bit of a surprise in the second round, selecting four-year SIU Saluki and one-year Illini Marcus Domask. Weber added bulldog Sergio McClain as a lead defender and connector on offense during the third round and then followed up with some more toughness down low, with big man Robert Archibald in the fourth round. With the choice of either Mike Davis, Tyler Griffey or Marcus Arnold as a power forward in the fifth round, Weber chose the most athletic of the three, Davis, a three-year starter for the Illini coach.

One-Word Description of This Team: STEADY!

Weber will not have to worry too much about the effort on this team as Domask and McClain are heady ballplayers who will do whatever it takes to win while Head and Archibald play with an edge. Davis is more of a finesse player who is a crafty scorer despite not having the most girth. Weber works best with overachievers, which Domask, McClain, Davis and Archibald represent, while having a track history of getting the most out of Head during their two seasons together. This team should not have any issues sharing and moving the basketball. McClain, Head and Archibald will provide tough defense while Domask and Davis will play hard on that end.

Concerns: Lack of a Point Guard, Outside Shooting, Lack of a Big to Stretch the Floor, Team Speed

Weber is confident that Domask and McClain will be able to share point guard duties in the half court. While Head is a sniper from three, Domask and McClain can be a bit erratic from the outside. Both players figure to get baskets off post ups. Davis can shoot from the mid-range in, but neither Archibald or he can step out and hit the three. With the exception of Head and Davis, this is not a very swift team that could struggle with more athletic opponents.

Overall Thoughts

Weber has built a team with a high floor, low ceiling, though Head could carry this team to its maximum heights. Weber's team figures to be tough on both ends of the half court, one that will grind down opponents and dictate its style of play. This team has a high basketball IQ, and like Kruger's team, the sum should be greater than the parts. McClain is an ultimate winner, who will make sure things are connected on both ends, while Domask is a sneaky good #2 option. Weber built this team based on his identity, rather than chasing the most talent, and that should bode well for a coach who can X and O quite well with intelligent players.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team Bill Self

7/7/2026

Let's break down Team Bill Self from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Self
PG: Keaton Wagler (#3 Overall Pick)
SG: Alfonso Plummer (#22 Overall Pick)
SF: Matthew Mayer (#15 Overall Pick)
PF: Jack Ingram (#27 Overall Pick)
C: James Augustine (#10 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap:

Bill Self wasted no time turning in his draft selection with the third overall pick, selecting Keaton Wagler. After nabbing the player responsible for the greatest freshman season in Illinois basketball history, Self doubled down on another winner in the second round, going with James Augustine, who is tied with Dee Brown as the all-time winningest Illini men's basketball player. Self then threw caution to the wind, selecting two wildcards in the third and fourth rounds, respectively. While streaky, third-round pick Matthew Mayer and fourth-round pick Alfonso Plummer were too good to pass up with their shooting ability. Self then finished up with a solid selection as a fifth pick, big man Jack Ingram, who will be asked to defend, screen and hit the occasional open shot.

One-Word Description of This Team: DANGEROUS!

If everything clicks, Self might have the most dangerous team of any of the six. Self is relying on the steadiness of Wagler, Augustine and Ingram to balance out the streakiness of Mayer and Plummer. When clicking, Self's team should put up a lot of points. The key for Self will be to get consistency out of Mayer. If bought in, Mayer could swing this team to a whole different level. Plummer's ability to stretch the floor should allow Augustine to work in the post, as will Ingram's ability to pass out of the high-low.

Concerns: Pacing, Interior Scoring, Keeping Everyone Involved, Lack of Athleticism

Wagler prefers to play a methodical pace while Mayer and Plummer are best in a more up-tempo game. How will Self find the right balance here? This teams lacks a true post presence who can get on the block and score consistently, though Augustine has potential in this area and will be asked to do more of this for Self's team. This team will not collapse the defense with post touches but will have to do so with Wagler's penetration. Defensively, Plummer's size could create mismatch opportunities for opponents with bigger back courts. Self usually has a dude who can get points off sheer athleticism, which is missing on this team, though Wagler's ability to play the game at his own speed should offset this potential concern.

Overall Thoughts

Self is going to put the ball in Wagler's hands and let the point guard cook. Mayer could be really dangerous as an off-ball cutter in addition to a three-point shooter from the corner. Expect Augustine to set a lot of screens for Wagler and roll to the basket as Self spaces the floor with Ingram, Mayer and Plummer, perhaps the most dangerous flamethrower of any Illini on these six teams. Augustine and Ingram may not wow anyone down low, but they will work hard and get the job done. Augustine's high field-goal percentage and rebounding are not to be forgotten as well. Like many Self teams, this squad could win it all or disappoint, though Wagler and Augustine make the latter unlikely.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team Lon Kruger

7/6/2026

Let's break down Team Lon Kruger from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Kruger
PG: Cory Bradford (#11 Overall Pick)
SG: Dee Brown (#2 Overall Pick)
SF: D.J. Richardson (#26 Overall Pick)
PF: Damir Krupalija (#14 Overall Pick)
C: Dain Dainja (#23 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap

While there were bigger and more talented guys on the board, Kruger chose Dee Brown with the #2 overall pick, making the most popular Illinois player of all time the face of his team and best overall pick. Kruger followed up with #11 overall pick Cory Bradford in the second round, with an ace up his sleeve. Kruger plans to play Bradford as the point guard as was the case during his fabulous Big Ten Freshman of the Year season back in 1998-99. Bradford figures to be an X-factor on this team. Kruger surprised again in the third round, drafting another player who showed a lot of promise as a freshman in 1998-99, power forward Damir Krupalija. Kruger is banking that he will get the most out of Bradford and Krupalija, two guys who had to play secondary roles as their Illini careers progressed. In the fourth round, Kruger fell in love with Dain Dainja, who fits the profile of Florida forward Demetrious Hill, who led the Gators to the Final Four in 1994. Kruger filled out his starting five with D.J. Richardson, once again banking on the belief that he will coach up the small forward based on all of the promise of D.J.'s Big Ten Freshman of the Year campaign back in the 2009-10 season.

One Word Description of Team Kruger: POTENTIAL!

Kruger is known for getting the most out of his players, and that is the goal with this team. Brown's energy will be a constant on this team, and Kruger is confident that Bradford's game will take off with the ball in his hands. Kruger feels that Krupalija will also rise to the occasion with more responsibility and priority on offense. Kruger understands Dainja's defensive limitations and will rely on the big man for efficient offense. Richardson will be expected to be a three-and-D guy.

Concerns about This Team: Perimeter Size, Interior Defense, Consistent Scoring

Kruger has a small perimeter with Bradford 6'3'', Brown 6'0'' and Richardson 6'5''. On the interior, Dainja will struggle guarding more talented bigs. Krupalija will fight hard but be expected to carry a heavy defensive burden next to Dain. Scoring on this team could be hit or miss as all five players can put up points or go quiet.

Overall Thoughts

Bradford and Brown are the keys to this team, which may struggle early on but will get better as the season progresses. Along with James Augustine, Brown is the winningest player in the history of Illinois basketball so losing will not be tolerated. The sum of this team is greater than the individual parts, which fits Kruger to a tee. He is a master at getting the most out of his players as seen during his first two seasons at Illinois. If Kruger can unleash Bradford's slashing ability as a freshman, make Krupalija more of a focal point, utilize Brown's quickness and activity, find room for Dainja as a complementary scorer, and build up Richardson's confidence, this team could surprise.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Team Lou Henson

7/5/2026

Let's break down Team Lou Henson from my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom!

Team Henson
PG: Deron Williams (#1 Overall Pick)
SG: Kevin Turner (#24 Overall Pick)
SF: Lucas Johnson (#25 Overall Pick)
PF: Roger Powell Jr. (#13 Overall Pick)
C: Marcus Griffin (#12 Overall Pick)

Draft Recap

Henson began the draft by taking Williams above anyone else, a wonderful player to start the team. After waiting eleven picks and seeing three big men go in the second round, Henson got a winning center in Marcus Griffin, who will get way more touches on this team. Henson followed up with the ultimate glue guy Roger Powell Jr., another player who will have a heavier offensive role. In the fourth round, Henson made the intriguing pick of X-factor Kevin Turner, whose shooting should complement Williams quite well. Henson began the fifth round with his shrewdest pick, adding Lucas Johnson to round out the starting five.

One-Word Description of This Team: TOUGHNESS!

Coach Lou Henson drafted five competitors, with Williams the #1 overall pick in the entire draft in large part to his attitude that he is the best player on the court. Henson's team is one that will defend and fight. The Williams and Kevin Turner backcourt is very intriguing as Turner should benefit from Williams' ability to get in the paint off the bounce. Center Marcus Griffin will be asked to do a lot more scoring than he had to during his Fighting Illini career, when he played on a loaded team with Brian Cook, Robert Archibald and Damir Krupalija down low. Henson has two incredible glue guys with Roger Powell Jr. and Lucas Johnson. To be successful, this team will make its living defending and need balanced scoring. Williams will have to look for more offense than he did at Illinois.

Concerns: Size, Foot Speed, Athleticism and Scoring

Team Henson has no player bigger than the 6'9'' Griffin. At the forward spots Johnson and Powell could struggle with quicker, taller and more athletic players. While Turner and Williams can shoot the three, with Johnson and Powell able to hit spot up threes, there is no dead-eye shooter on this team. If the shooting is not there, and this team is spread out on the perimeter on the defensive end, there could be challenges.

Overall Thoughts

This team will be a tough opponent due to the competitiveness across the starting five. Williams will back down to no one, and Griffin has won throughout high school and college. Turner and Powell will need to be consistent third and fourth scoring options while Johnson will make his calling on the defensive end. Still, there will be little ego on this team, which will be all about winning, with each player understanding and playing his role.

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, The Six Teams

7/4/2026

My fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom is complete!

Here is the list of eligible players and the draft order/stipulations.

Here are the final teams.

Team Henson
PG: Deron Williams (#1 Overall Pick)
SG: Kevin Turner (#24 Overall Pick)
SF: Lucas Johnson (#25 Overall Pick)
PF: Roger Powell Jr. (#13 Overall Pick)
C: Marcus Griffin (#12 Overall Pick)

Team Kruger
PG: Cory Bradford (#11 Overall Pick)
SG: Dee Brown (#2 Overall Pick)
SF: D.J. Richardson (#26 Overall Pick)
PF: Damir Krupalija (#14 Overall Pick)
C: Dain Dainja (#23 Overall Pick)

Team Self
PG: Keaton Wagler (#3 Overall Pick)
SG: Alfonso Plummer (#22 Overall Pick)
SF: Matthew Mayer (#15 Overall Pick)
PF: Jack Ingram (#27 Overall Pick)
C: James Augustine (#10 Overall Pick)

Team Weber
PG: Marcus Domask (#9 Overall Pick)
SG: Luther Head (#4 Overall Pick)
SF: Sergio McClain (#16 Overall Pick)
PF: Mike Davis (#28 Overall Pick)
C: Robert Archibald (#21 Overall Pick)

Team Groce
PG: Trent Frazier (#20 Overall Pick)
SG: Terrence Shannon Jr. (#5 Overall Pick)
SF: Will Riley (#17 Overall Pick)
PF: Tyler Griffey (#29 Overall Pick)
C: Morez Johnson Jr. (#8 Overall Pick)

Team Underwood
PG: Frank Williams (#6 Overall Pick)
SG: Brandon Paul (#19 Overall Pick)
SF: David Mirkovic (#7 Overall Pick)
PF: Marcus Arnold (#30 Overall Pick)
C: Tomislav Ivisic (#18 Overall Pick)

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Final Fantasy Draft

7/3/2026

My fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom is complete!

Here is the list of eligible players and the draft order/stipulations.

Here is who was selected during the first round.

#1 Overall Pick - Deron Williams, Team Henson
#2 Overall Pick - Dee Brown, Team Kruger
#3 Overall Pick - Keaton Wagler, Team Self
#4 Overall Pick - Luther Head, Team Weber
#5 Overall Pick - Terrence Shannon Jr., Team Groce
#6 Overall Pick - Frank Williams, Team Underwood

Here is who was selected during the second round.

#7 Overall Pick - David Mirkovic, Team Underwood
#8 Overall Pick - Morez Johnson, Team Groce
#9 Overall Pick - Marcus Domask, Team Weber
#10 Overall Pick - James Augustine, Team Self
#11 Overall Pick - Cory Bradford, Team Kruger
#12 Overall Pick - Marcus Griffin, Team Henson

Here is who was selected during the third round.

#13 Overall Pick - Roger Powell Jr., Team Henson
#14 Overall Pick - Damir Krupalija, Team Kruger
#15 Overall Pick - Matthew Mayer, Team Self
#16 Overall Pick - Sergio McClain, Team Weber
#17 Overall Pick - Will Riley, Team Groce
#18 Overall Pick - Tomislav Ivisic, Team Underwood

Here is who was selected during the fourth round.

#19 Overall Pick - Brandon Paul, Team Underwood
#20 Overall Pick - Trent Frazier, Team Groce
#21 Overall Pick - Robert Archibald, Team Weber
#22 Overall Pick - Alfonso Plummer, Team Self
#23 Overall Pick - Dain Dainja, Team Kruger
#24 Overall Pick - Kevin Turner, Team Henson

Here is who was selected during the fifth round.

#25 Overall Pick - Lucas Johnson, Team Henson
#26 Overall Pick - D.J. Richardson, Team Kruger
#27 Overall Pick - Jack Ingram, Team Self
#28 Overall Pick - Mike Davis, Team Weber
#29 Overall Pick - Tyler Griffey, Team Groce
#30 Overall Pick - Marcus Arnold, Team Underwood

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, Fantasy Draft Fifth Round

7/2/2026

Let's continue with my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom.

Here is the list of eligible players and the draft order/stipulations.

Here is who was selected during the first round.

#1 Overall Pick - Deron Williams, Team Henson
#2 Overall Pick - Dee Brown, Team Kruger
#3 Overall Pick - Keaton Wagler, Team Self
#4 Overall Pick - Luther Head, Team Weber
#5 Overall Pick - Terrence Shannon Jr., Team Groce
#6 Overall Pick - Frank Williams, Team Underwood

Here is who was selected during the second round.

#7 Overall Pick - David Mirkovic, Team Underwood
#8 Overall Pick - Morez Johnson, Team Groce
#9 Overall Pick - Marcus Domask, Team Weber
#10 Overall Pick - James Augustine, Team Self
#11 Overall Pick - Cory Bradford, Team Kruger
#12 Overall Pick - Marcus Griffin, Team Henson

Here is who was selected during the third round.

#13 Overall Pick - Roger Powell Jr., Team Henson
#14 Overall Pick - Damir Krupalija, Team Kruger
#15 Overall Pick - Matthew Mayer, Team Self
#16 Overall Pick - Sergio McClain, Team Weber
#17 Overall Pick - Will Riley, Team Groce
#18 Overall Pick - Tomislav Ivisic, Team Underwood

Here is who was selected during the fourth round.

#19 Overall Pick - Brandon Paul, Team Underwood
#20 Overall Pick - Trent Frazier, Team Groce
#21 Overall Pick - Robert Archibald, Team Weber
#22 Overall Pick - Alfonso Plummer, Team Self
#23 Overall Pick - Dain Dainja, Team Kruger
#24 Overall Pick - Kevin Turner, Team Henson

Here is the draft order of the fifth and final round.

#25 Overall Pick - Team Henson
#26 Overall Pick - Team Kruger
#27 Overall Pick - Team Self
#28 Overall Pick - Team Weber
#29 Overall Pick - Team Groce
#30 Overall Pick - Team Underwood

Fifth Round, #25 Overall Pick

Team Henson Selects Lucas Johnson

Henson's Thoughts: "Lucas is the perfect fifth starter to fill out my team. I am excited about Lucas and Roger Powell Jr. manning the three and four positions, and being able to switch positions if necessary. I feel like we have added two of the greatest glue guys in Illinois basketball history with Lucas and Roger. They should perfectly complement our scoring trio of Deron Williams, Marcus Griffin and Kevin Turner.

Fifth Round, #26 Overall Pick

Team Kruger Selects D.J. Richardson

Kruger's Thoughts: "D.J. is a guy I feel comfortable sliding into the starting lineup with his defensive presence and ability to shoot the three. He is another guy whom I feel will do his role well and play off his teammates. He fits our need at the three spot perfectly."

Fifth Round, #27 Overall Pick

Team Self Selects Jack Ingram

Self's Thoughts: "I am excited to get to finally coach Jack after bringing him to Illinois from Tulsa before leaving for Kansas. Jack is exactly what we need at the four spot and as a fifth starter, a guy who can stretch the floor with his outside shooting and will play good positional defense. Auggie and Jack may not be the sexiest bigs, but they will be more than solid for us."

Fifth Round, #28 Overall Pick

Team Weber Selects Mike Davis

Weber's Thoughts: "Mike is a more of a finesse big man who gives us some versatility with Sergio McClain and Robert Archibald more physical players. I think Mike can thrive on this team in the mid-range game and providing energy on both ends of the floor. Mike was hardly known as a high school recruit and started for three seasons with me. He is more than capable as our fifth starter."

Fifth Round, #29 Overall Pick

Team Groce Selects Tyler Griffey

Groce's Thoughts: "Tyler had a great final season at Illinois during my first year as Head Coach. I am excited about his ability to stretch the floor with this three-point shooting as Morez Johnson patrols the paint. Tyler is a heady player who will be a connector on the floor for our team."

Fifth Round, #30 Overall Pick

Underwood Selects Marcus Arnold

Underwood's Thoughts: "This is how we saw the last pick of the draft playing out. Marcus will bring physicality down low and will be expected to crash the glass. We will need Marcus to be an offensive rebounder, especially crashing off the baseline, and an effective screener for us. The fit is not perfect, and we will probably have to play a lot of zone, but we will make it work. Marcus is a great kid who will do whatever the team needs of him."

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, Fantasy Draft Fourth Round

7/1/2026

Let's continue with my fantasy draft of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom.

Here is the list of eligible players and the draft order/stipulations.

Here is who was selected during the first round.

#1 Overall Pick - Deron Williams, Team Henson
#2 Overall Pick - Dee Brown, Team Kruger
#3 Overall Pick - Keaton Wagler, Team Self
#4 Overall Pick - Luther Head, Team Weber
#5 Overall Pick - Terrence Shannon Jr., Team Groce
#6 Overall Pick - Frank Williams, Team Underwood

Here is who was selected during the second round.

#7 Overall Pick - David Mirkovic, Team Underwood
#8 Overall Pick - Morez Johnson, Team Groce
#9 Overall Pick - Marcus Domask, Team Weber
#10 Overall Pick - James Augustine, Team Self
#11 Overall Pick - Cory Bradford, Team Kruger
#12 Overall Pick - Marcus Griffin, Team Henson

Here is who was selected during the third round.

#13 Overall Pick - Roger Powell Jr., Team Henson
#14 Overall Pick - Damir Krupalija, Team Kruger
#15 Overall Pick - Matthew Mayer, Team Self
#16 Overall Pick - Sergio McClain, Team Weber
#17 Overall Pick - Will Riley, Team Groce
#18 Overall Pick - Tomislav Ivisic, Team Underwood

Here is the draft order for the fourth round.

#19 Overall Pick - Team Underwood
#20 Overall Pick - Team Groce
#21 Overall Pick - Team Weber
#22 Overall Pick - Team Self
#23 Overall Pick - Team Kruger
#24 Overall Pick - Team Henson

Fourth Round, #19 Overall Pick

Underwood Selects Brandon Paul

Underwood's Thoughts: "There were a lot of good players to pick here at the shooting guard position. Ultimately, Brandon won out with his size, versatility, slashing and shooting abilities. There is a lot of untapped potential with Brandon, especially as an off-ball cutter. Brandon will be asked to defend his butt off on the perimeter. I am very excited to add a player of this talent and person of this character at this point in the draft."

Fourth Round, #20 Overall Pick

Team Groce Selects Trent Frazier

Groce's Thoughts: "I recruited Trent to Illinois but never got to coach him. Now I am going to coach one of the ultimate competitors to ever wear a Fighting Illini uniform. Trent can play on or off the ball and slots in perfectly with Terrence Shannon Jr. and Will Riley. I am so excited about our offensive firepower. Of course, Trent will lock down our perimeter defense while Morez does the same down low."

Fourth Round, #21 Overall Pick

Team Weber Selects Robert Archibald

Weber's Thoughts: "Robert is a nasty, fierce competitor who further aligns with my team's toughness. I will never question Arch's effort on the court. He will be our anchor down low. Through the first four rounds, Team Weber has forged an identity of being a team that will outwork its opponent with Arch, Sergio, Marcus and Luther. I like how our team has taken shape."

Fourth Round, #22 Overall Pick

Team Self Selects Alfonso Plummer

Self's Thoughts: "Alfonso is too good of a shooter to pass up at this point in the draft. With Keaton running the point, Alfonso will have plenty of opportunities to be a sniper for our team. Like Matthew Mayer, Plummer is a kid who has to be respected at all times as he can go off at any moment and carry our team."

Fourth Round, #23 Overall Pick

Team Kruger Selects Dain Dainja

Kruger's Thoughts: "Dain is the post scorer that we need. I had great success at Florida with a similar big man named Demetrious Hill. I think Dain can have a similar impact on my Illinois team. Dain is a dancing bear down low. His foot work is impeccable, as is his soft touch. I expect Dee Brown to push Dain to be the very best player he can be."

Fourth Round, #24 Overall Pick

Team Henson Selects Kevin Turner

Henson's Thoughts: "I am excited to pair someone with Kevin's scoring/shooting ability with a point guard in Deron Williams who can set him up all day long. Kevin brings much needed outside shooting to our team. He is a player not to be slept on, someone who will fit in seamlessly with the rest of my team."

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, Fantasy Draft Third Round

6/30/2026

Third Round, #13 Overall Pick

Team Henson Selects Roger Powell

Henson's Thoughts: "Roger is the ultimate glue guy who can slide in at the three or four for us while Deron Williams and Marcus Griffin serve as our primary scorers. Roger is highly efficient and impacts the game in many ways. I love his fit with the current roster. He is a high-character guy with little ego."

Third Round, #14 Overall Pick

Team Kruger Selects Damir Krupalija

Kruger's Thoughts: "Like Cory Bradford, Damir is a guy I feel like I can maximize to his highest potential. Damir is fearless and plays with a lot of heart. Dee Brown and he will hit it off as both guys play with a lot of intensity. I love Damir's ability to stretch the floor and hit the three. It is not going to be fun for opposing offensive players going against Dee on the perimeter and Damir in the post."

Third Round, #15 Overall Pick

Team Self Selects Matthew Mayer

Self's Thoughts: "Matthew is the ultimate X-factor. When he gets hot, he scores in bunches. I feel that Matthew will fit in well on this team with Keaton Wagler and James Augustine being our emotional rocks. Matthew gives us a scoring punch from either the three or four position. His offensive capabilities are too good to pass up. Matthew is a free spirit, and I am a people person who will get the most out of Matthew's talents."

Third Round, #16 Overall Pick

Team Weber Selects Sergio McClain

Weber's Thoughts: "Sergio reminds me of a guy Gene Keady would have recruited to Purdue. He will be our defensive fulcrum. While we don't have a traditional point guard, I can envision Sergio and Marcus facilitating offense in the half court. Sergio brings so many intangibles to the court that I had to have him."

Third Round, #17 Overall Pick

Team Groce Selects Will Riley

Groce's Thoughts: "I couldn't be more excited to get Will in the third round. With Terrence Shannon and Will, we can interchange both guys at the two and the three. Will is such an explosive scorer. He can take over stretches of games. The kid was born to put the ball in the hoop."

Third Round, #18 Overall Pick

Underwood Selects Tomi Ivisic

Underwood's Thoughts: "If it's not broke, don't fix it. I am thrilled to see Tomi drop to the end of the third round. Along with David Mirkovic, Tomi gives us the floor spacing that we prioritize with Frank Williams running the show. I can't wait to see how Frank's dribble penetration allows Tomi to step into so many open threes. Our offense is going to be tough to stop."

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, Fantasy Draft Second Round

6/29/2026

Second Round, Overall Pick #7

Team Underwood Selects David Mirkovic

Underwood's Thoughts: "I couldn't pass up on Mirk. He will be the perfect pick and pop partner with Frankie. His fire and personality will elevate every one on my roster and make the game fun again for Frank. The size, skill and competitiveness were too good to pass up. I feel like I have gotten the most talented player in the draft in Frankie and the most competitive in Mirkovic."

Second Round, Overall Pick #8

Team Groce Selects Morez Johnson

Groce's Thoughts: "I am following the Dusty May model of picking Morez higher than he was projected. It should be clear that I am building the most athletic Illinois team as possible. Morez is a man-child who will dominate the glass and score at will on the inside. Like Terrence, he is unstoppable in many ways. So far I have two matchup nightmares for our opponents! Morez is what I always wanted in Cliff Alexander."

Second Round, Overall Pick #9

Team Weber Selects Marcus Domask

Weber's Thoughts: "There are a lot of very good big men that will be on the board later in the draft. With that in mind, Marcus is someone I know well with him playing his first four seasons at Southern Illinois. Marcus is a highly intelligent basketball player who can play the one through three in my offense. He is all business like Luther Head and will allow us to have more positional versatility. Remember this is about building the best team, not assembling the most talent. Marcus fits what I am looking for as a player and person. He fits my personality quite well."

Second Round, Overall Pick #10
Team Self Selects James Augustine

Self's Thoughts: "Like Keaton, Auggie is a low-maintenance player who will do whatever it takes to win, whether it's rebounding, defending, or chipping in with occasional baskets. I love James' overall athleticism for a player his size. We now have a rock-solid point guard and big man who will not make mistakes and beat themselves."

Second Round, Overall Pick #11

Team Kruger Selects Cory Bradford

Kruger's Thoughts: "Cory was on the trajectory to being a star with me during his first two seasons in Champaign. I plan on playing Cory as a point guard with Dee Brown off the ball. While my back court may be small, it is going to be competitive and back down from no one. I am confident that I can fill out the rest of my roster with post guys who are equally tough as Dee and Cory will be on the perimeter."

Second Round, Overall Pick #12

Team Henson Selects Marcus Griffin

Henson's Thoughts: "I am confident that I will get a lot out of Marcus in the post with Deron Williams feeding him the ball down low. Marcus is so underrated. People forget he was a McDonald's All-American in high school. I am ecstatic to add a player who is all business like Deron. I want winners on my team, and I have two great ones as foundational pieces."

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My Fandom, Fantasy Draft First Round

6/28/2026

For fun, I am going to draft six teams from my list of my 30 favorite Illinois men's basketball players of all-time.

Here are the list and draft stipulations/order.

Let's begin the first round!

First Round, Overall Pick #1:

Team Henson Selects Deron Williams.

Henson's Thoughts: "There is no player I'd rather have with the ball in his hands late in the game than Deron. He is the complete package at the point guard position, a selfless distributor who defends and has a killer instinct to take over when necessary."

First Round, Overall Pick #2:

Team Kruger Selects Dee Brown.

Kruger's Thoughts: "Dee will not only be the face of my team but the model of hard work, tenacity and passion. Dee leads by actions and words, making my team one that all Illinois fans will get behind."

First Round, Overall Pick #3:

Team Self Selects Keaton Wagler.

Self's Thoughts: "Somehow I let Keaton get out of the state of Kansas when he was in high school. That was not going to happen this time. Keaton is an unflappable point guard, mature beyond his years, with no moment too big for his game. He is who I was targeting all along."

First Round, Overall Pick #4:

Team Weber Selects Luther Head.

Weber's Thoughts: "No one got more out of Luther than me. Luther is going to set our culture as a defensive-minded team, first and foremost. My best teams are ones that outwork the opponent. Luther is going to lead a team of junkyard dogs on the defensive end. He will thrive as a shooter and driver in our motion offense."

First Round, Overall Pick #5:

Team Groce Selects Terrence Shannon.

Groce's Thoughts: "At Ohio, I had great success with a lefty who could handle the ball in D.J. Cooper. Now I've got my lefty star at Illinois in Terrence Shannon Jr. Terrence is unstoppable going downhill. I expect him to score more than 20 points per game on my team. I couldn't pass up on Terrence's athleticism."

First Round, Overall Pick #6:

Team Underwood Selects Frank Williams.

Underwood's Thoughts: "Frank is the most talented player in this draft. We had him #1 on our draft board. He is ELITE in all areas of the game. He will thrive in our pick-and-roll offense. Tyler is already salivating about how we can space the floor to let Frank get downhill and feed our open shooters."

Illinois Fighting Illini 30 for 30: My Favorite Illinois Men's Basketball Players of My 30-Year Fandom, Fantasy Draft Intro

6/27/2026

With my list of my 30 favorite Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball players of my 30-year fandom complete, I thought it would be fun to do a fantasy draft with these players.

As a recap, here is the final list of players, including breakdowns by:

Here is how the fantasy draft will work.

1) As there are 30 players, I will draft six teams of five players each.

2) The teams will be named after the six Illinois coaches of my 30-year fandom: Team Henson, Team Kruger, Team Self, Team Weber, Team Groce and Team Underwood. The first pick will go to Team Henson followed by Kruger, Self, Weber, Groce and Underwood.

3) Draft positioning will work in a snake position, meaning the person who drafts last in the first round will get the first pick of the second round.

4) Each day I will release a new round of the draft.

Here is the draft positioning:

First Round, Overall Pick #:
1 - Team Henson
2 - Team Kruger
3 - Team Self
4 - Team Weber
5 - Team Groce
6 - Team Underwood

Second Round, Overall Pick #:
7 - Team Underwood
8 - Team Groce
9 - Team Weber
10 - Team Self
11 - Team Kruger
12 - Team Henson

Third Round, Overall Pick #:
13 - Team Henson
14 - Team Kruger
15 - Team Self
16 - Team Weber
17 - Team Groce
18 - Team Underwood

Fourth Round, Overall Pick #:
19 - Team Underwood
20 - Team Groce
21 - Team Weber
22 - Team Self
23 - Team Kruger
24 - Team Henson

Fifth Round, Overall Pick #:
25 - Team Henson
26 - Team Kruger
27 - Team Self
28 - Team Weber
29- Team Groce
30- Team Underwood

<<Previous

Keaton WaglerLos Angeles Clippers

Kylan Boswell Charlotte Hornets

Ben Humrichous Brooklyn Nets

Dain DainjaBrooklyn Nets

Kasparas Jakucionis Milwaukee Bucks

Will Riley Washington Wizards

Justin HarmonUtah Jazz

Coleman HawkinsDenver Nuggets

Luke Goode Los Angeles Lakers

Morez Johnson Jr. Dallas Mavericks

R.J. MelendezSan Antonio Spurs

Ben Humrichous Brooklyn Nets

Dain Dainja Brooklyn Nets

R.J. MelendezSan Antonio Spurs

Keaton Wagler Los Angeles Clippers

Dain DainjaBrooklyn Nets

Ben HumrichousBrooklyn Nets

Kylan Boswell Charlotte Hornets

Keaton WaglerLos Angeles Clippers

Justin HarmonUtah Jazz

Keaton WaglerLos Angeles Clippers

Kylan BoswellCharlotte Hornets

#1: Kendall Gill