Illinois Basketball: Jake Davis becoming the “consummate role player”

Jake Davis was the first addition in the 2024 offseason for Illinois basketball. The sophomore spent his freshman year at Mercer and knocked down 38.7 percent of his three-point shots. Many expected the McCordsville, Indiana native to replace former Illini Luke Goode as a knockdown shooter in the lineup. However, the Illini went on to have a huge haul of new and talented players. From Kasparas Jakucionis, Kylan Boswell, Tre White, and Will Riley, many expected Davis to be the forgotten man and some even discussed a redshirt year. To start the season, Davis looked a little out of place as he looked a step slow out there vs better competition.

However, over the past 9 games, Jake Davis has carved out a vital role for Illinois basketball and could be an x-factor moving forward. Like former Illini, Jacob Grandison, Davis does a lot of the little things and serves as a strong glue guy.

The Consummate role player

Over the last nine games, Davis has averaged 12.3 minutes per game and has made 11 of 26 three-point shots (42.3%). He also puts in a great effort on the offensive glass, much like Jacob Grandison did in 2021. Suppose Davis can contribute 2-3 three-point field goals per game. the Illini may just be able to hold serve while their starting big man, Tomislav Ivisic, is out with Mononucleosis. As he progresses to an upperclassman, Davis’ role is only set to increase as he grows more acclimated to the speed and physicality of the Big Ten.

When Brad Underwood was asked about Davis, he responded “he’s the consummate role player that understands what we do. He’s got great feel, great instincts. Throughout his life, he’s always been a great shooter…He has a great knack of finding ways to get open without that. He understands the game and creates great angles and opportunities.

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