Elite Shooter Zavier Zens set to take official visit to Illinois Basketball

Three-star forward Zavier Zens is expected to visit the Illinois campus on April 12, per multiple sources. Zens recently decommitted from the University of Northern Iowa following a coaching change for the Panthers. Per reports, he is expected to also visit Wisconsin and Utah State in addition to his visit to Illinois.

Zens won the 2026 Mr. Basketball in the state of Wisconsin after a stellar senior season. The 6-foot-7-inch guard/forward averaged over 23 points per game while shooting over 60 percent from the field. Fun fact is that Zen is the cousin of Charlotte Hornets forward Kon Kneuppel.

What would Zen bring to Illinois?

Zen is an elite shooter with size and versatility. Though he is a three-star prospect, he has translatable skills that can help Illinois. Sharpshooter Ben Humrichous is out of college eligibility, hence Zen would be a seamless fit on the Illini Roster.

Right now, Illinois needs to add a shooting specialist to place alongside bucket getters, Quentin Coleman and Lucas Morillo.

Illini’s chances?

At this point, the Illini have a very strong sell for Zavier Zens. They just got off a final four and had one of the best offenses in the country. They have an extremely talented group of incoming freshmen and should be among the best teams in the Big Ten next year.

However, Wisconsin has the home-state sell. As Mr Basketball in the state of Wisconsin, the Badgers have a clear sell for Zen to come in and contribute at a high level. If Illinois wants to land Zavier Zen, they will have to hold off a strong sell from the Badgers.

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