Could Nasir Rankin also have an impact on Illinois Basketball?

4-star athlete Nasir Rankin from Morgan Park has officially committed to Illinois to play both football and basketball.

In football, Rankin is a nationally ranked top 100 prospect and currently the #2 football player in Illinois, according to 247Sports. He chose the Illini over powerhouse programs including USC, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Duke.

This commitment marks Illinois’ first 4-star recruit for the class of 2026 on 247Sports and pushes the Illini into the top 10 nationally in football recruiting. Rankin is expected to make an immediate impact on the football field, bringing elite speed and athleticism to the wide receiver position.

Two-sport athlete

Rankin also stars on the basketball court for Morgan Park, the same high school attended by Illini legend and current Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu. Dosunmu attended Rankin’s commitment celebration and shared, “Him going to Morgan Park made it even better. That’s why I wanted to show my support and be here today. I wish him nothing but success in his career.”

While Rankin’s long-term impact will likely be greater in football, he will still contribute to the basketball team. With Kylan Boswell expected to graduate and uncertainty surrounding Mihailo Petrovic’s eligibility, Rankin could help fill a potential void in the Illini backcourt.

 Brad Underwood and his staff will likely turn to the transfer portal if both Boswell and Petrovic are unavailable.  Hence, Rankin is projected to take on a bench role and could serve as a scout team guard during the 2026–27 season once football concludes. With continued development, he has the potential to rise through the ranks in the basketball program. He has elite athleticism and shiftiness that could develop into a useful role for the Illini. 

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