Former Illini Brandon Lieb Transfers to Illinois State

Former Illini Center, Brandon Lieb has found a new home in the State of Illinois.

On March 30th, Illinois junior, Brandon Lieb, announced his intent to enter the transfer portal. Lieb was often used during his time in Champaign, however showed increment flashes of productive potential this past year. During the Illini’s matchup with Minnesota, Lieb played a career high, 13 minutes. In these 13 minutes, Lieb put up 4 points and 2 rebounds.

Regardless of the Illini’s activity in the transfer portal, Lieb was projected to reprise his role as a deep backup on this Illinois team. On April 19th, Lieb announced that he will be committing to Illinois State.

An appropriate fit

Brandon Lieb has spent 3 years developing in a winning Big Ten Program. Though he rarely was put on the floor, these 3 years of development shall serve him well. He likely has the physical traits to compete at the mid-major level and will likely be in line for at least 20 minutes per game at Illinois State.

Lieb spent multiple years battling Kofi Cockburn in the post and is likely ready to at least have an opportunity at some playing time. A few years ago, Jermaine Hamlin went from the Illini to Eastern Illinois. This is a similar movement for Lieb. Hamlin went on to play around 20 minutes a game during his first year at Eastern Illinois, and I am sure Lieb will accrue a similar amount.

Brandon Lieb has 2 more years of eligibility if he so chooses.

Illinois to ramp up its activity in the portal.

Illinois has gone silent after landing Marcus Domask and Justin Harmon in the portal on the same day. Most recently, Illinois had some buzz that they would be hosting former recruiting target, Quincy Guerrier. As mentioned in our most recent article, Guerrier is a priority for Illinois and Brad Underwood will look to lock that recruitment down this weekend with an official visit.