Former Illinois Basketball Guard Leading Spanish League Team

Former Illinois Basketball Guard Leading Spanish League Team

Andres Feliz became one of the most beloved Illinois Basketball players. Ayo Dosunmu, Kofi Cockburn, and Trent Frazier frequently receive a lot of shine for being a part of Illinois Basketball’s return to relevance. However, Andres Feliz is just as deserving. Feliz was not a part of the Big Ten Tournament champion’s team or the regular season title’s team. Despite this, he was a huge catalyst in the 2019-2020 season. That season laid the groundwork for what would be a nice few years for Illinois Basketball. Andres Feliz always brought his A-game and played with a toughness and passion that Illinois Basketball seemingly lacked for the past decade.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 caused an abrupt end to a very fun season and Feliz was never able to enjoy the national spotlight that was about to come with success. Regardless, the Dominican native is currently battling in the best league in Spain and has gradually improved his game.

A lead guard in a great league

Andres Feliz is in his third year in La Liga Endesa. This is a Spanish league that includes powerhouse European ball clubs like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and more. Feliz is playing for Joventut Badalona alongside former Ohio State Star, Deshaun Thomas. Feliz is having a career year. He was instrumental on the  Dominican FIBA team this past summer, and he has carried that momentum into this season. Through 6 games, he is averaging 17.0 ppg, 4.2 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Andres leads his team in points and assists and is second on his team in rebounds. In his league, Feliz is 3rd in points per game.

INSANE 🤯

Andres Feliz 🇩🇴 hit the full-court game-winner in ACB 🔥

🎥 @ACBCOM pic.twitter.com/x9MIeSf2S8

— FIBA (@FIBA) November 20, 2023

In addition, he hit a full-court buzzer-beater last week. It is safe to say that Andres Feliz is one of the better players in an extremely competitive league.

A Truly Amazing Story

Andres Feliz is one of the most likable Illini players in recent history. I think he can continue being one of those super tough basketball guards that give European League players fits. I also think that he may have a role in the NBA if the opportunity arises himself. He is not explosive or an amazing shooter, but if Andres Feliz can show his trademark toughness in the summer league, I think he can find a way to impress some teams.

Illinois has been yearning for an Andres Feliz-like player ever since he left. Feliz is one of a kind, and I hope he knows that Illinois fans will always be in his corner.

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