dailynewsnblog
Brad Underwood has made Illinois a destination.
What started with Ayo Dosunmu’s commitment in 2018 has continued, with highly rated recruits consistently viewing Illinois as a prime destination to win in college and take the next step to the NBA.
The most recent recruiting class ranks 27th in the nation, per 247Sports, featuring one five-star recruit and two four-stars.
Likewise, impactful transfer portal classes have been key drivers of deep runs for Illinois, with the recent addition of Stefan Vaaks likely to continue that trend.
Given these factors, recent misses on top recruits, like Darius Wabbington, should not be cause for concern for Underwood and the Illini.
Underwood and the Illinois coaching staff seem to have a keen eye for talent, specifically targeting players they believe fit the Illini mold.
Much of this is evident in the way Illinois develops the players it acquires. Taking underrated commodities like Keaton Wagler and Marcus Domask and turning them into productive players has been a recurring theme throughout the Underwood era.
Moreover, recruiting classes are becoming less vital to Illinois in the age of the transfer portal.
Given Illinois’ ability to help portal players improve their games and the significant resources available to acquire talent, the program will likely remain a desirable destination for players.
Finally, the foundation for the 2027 recruiting class is already solid. With two four-star recruits in Quinton Kitt and Mason Martin, both of whom the Illini value highly, Illinois has a foundation that should help lessen the blow of future misses in this recruiting cycle.
Missing out on top recruits will always sting, but Illinois basketball is in a strong position to weather those disappointments and should remain that way in the future.
