Connect with us

Basketball

Illinois basketball offers intriguing East coast guard in class of 2026

The Illini continue their search for bigger and skilled perimeter players.

Published

on

Illinois Basketball coach Brad Underwood.
Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The second session of the Nike EYBL took place in Memphis over the weekend, and Lucas Morillo took full advantage of the spotlight to showcase his talent. The NCAA live period gave him a prime opportunity to boost his recruiting stock in front of college coaches.

Morillo impressed enough to catch the attention of the Illinois basketball coaching staff, ultimately earning a scholarship offer. On Monday, May 18, Morillo announced the news on his X account (@lucasmorrillo), posting:“Blessed to receive a Division 1 Offer from The University of Illinois! #AGTG”

A big guard with a big game.

The 6’6” guard plays for City Rocks out of New York and had an outstanding four-game stretch in Memphis, averaging 16 points, 8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. He played a key role in leading his team to a 3-1 record during the session.

His standout performance earned him Breakout MVP honors from The Circuit, along with a spot on the Second Team for Session Two. This follows his selection to The Circuit’s Third Team for Session One, where he averaged 15.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.

Through the first two EYBL sessions, Morillo now ranks in the top 10 across multiple categories, including rebounds per game, double-doubles, performance index rating, and overall efficiency.

Recruiting expert Jamie Shaw of On3 named Morillo as one of his Top 10 Breakout Performers on the EYBL Circuit. He is currently ranked the #88 overall recruit in the Class of 2026 by On3 and #65 by ESPN.

Morillo plays for the Dominican Republic junior national teams, strengthening his connection with Illinois basketball assistant coach Orlando Antigua. Antigua was born in the Dominican Republic and previously served as the national team’s head coach from 2013 to 2015.

____________________________
We at Armchair Illini are proudly sponsored by Hamilton Walker’s Steak, Seafood, and Spirits. Located in the heart of downtown Champaign, there is certainly no better restaurant for Illini fans to visit. Order online here or call (217) 350-0363 to make a reservation.

Above all, for feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at alexkyi13@gmail.com. Additionally, please use our Seatgeek code for $20 off your purchase on Seatgeek.com: ARMCHAIRILLINOIS. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing Illinois media outlets around. Support our newly launched merchandise and memorabilia here!

Thank you for reading Armchair Illini! Furthermore, subscribe to our weekly newsletter here

Robby is a former Illinois basketball student manager. He brings a wealth of basketball knowledge to Armchair Illini and has recently founded his own college hoops blog, Lock Mamba.

Trending