Illinois Basketball Carries Second Most Talented Roster?

During the Brad Underwood era, each preseason garners more and more hype. It all started during the 2020 offseason when Ayo Dosunmu and Kofi Cockburn chose to return to school. Despite an early exit in March, Illinois basketball had an incredible year. Last year, Terrence Shannon Jr. and Coleman Hawkins decided to spurn the NBA in favor of one more year in Champaign. This year, the hype is a little different. Though there are no surefire veterans who are withdrawing from the NBA for Champaign, the talent with Illinois Basketball is undeniable.

In a recent graphic by College Basketball report, Illinois basketball has the second most talented roster in college basketball. The number one most talented? That’s right, the UCONN Huskies. Though on paper talent does not equate success, it is just a marker of how far this program has come under Brad Underwood. To have accrued so much talent after losing so many pieces to the professional ranks speaks volumes about Underwood and the Illinois basketball staff.

Illinois Basketball on a Mission

The 2023-2024 season was magical for all Illini fans. However, the ending clearly left a sour taste in Brad Underwood’s mouth. After getting completely outclassed by the national champions in the Elite Eight, Underwood and his staff went on a clear mission: to acquire talent. 

The most talented teams in college basketball for 2024-25, via https://t.co/BisYiyTP7k pic.twitter.com/egvtl7Cjia

— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) September 4, 2024

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