Other Transfer Portal Guards for Illinois Basketball

Other Transfer Portal Guards for Illinois Basketball

The RayJ Dennis saga continues. Even though a decision seemed to be imminent, the buzz around the recruitment has calmed down. Though Illinois may not be the pick, the fact that this has drawn out a little bit gives fans some hope. Despite this, Illinois basketball needs to be ready for either scenario. Obviously if Dennis chooses Illinois, all will be good. However, in the likely scenario that he does not choose Illinois, Brad Underwood and his staff must be ready. This is an unfortunate scenario for Illinois Basketball. I am sure that they slow played some available players that are now committed elsewhere simply because they were so confident in RayJ Dennis.

However, there are still some quality options out there. Illinois will have to act quick and decisively. Additionally, the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline is May 31st. I am sure an influx of players will enter the transfer portal if they choose to withdraw.

PG Zyon Pullin UC Riverside.

2022-23 Stats: 18.3 ppg 4.4 rebounds 4.2 assists 48.6% fg 39.4% 3pt

The top option in the transfer portal at this moment outside of RayJ Dennis is UC Riverside’s Zyon Pullin. Pullin is a California native that seems ready to make the leap to the high major level. Though he is not as craft and diverse a scorer as Dennis, Pullin seems very effective in the Pick and Roll. He has a similar body type to Justin Harmon, however he is a bit more below the rim compared to Harmon. Pullin would be a great option to dig into given his experience and ability to distribute out of the pick and roll.

Pullin is currently being courted by the University of Michigan. Michigan and Illinois both seem to have a lead guard conundrum, and would be heavily after Pullin’s services.

PG Caleb Love UNC

2022-23 stats: 16.7 ppg 3.7 rebounds 2.8 assists 37.8% FG, 29.9 % 3pt.

Caleb Love was previously committed to Michigan. However, the University of Michigan admissions department struck again. Love was unable to join the Wolverines due to an issue with admissions. Love may be an option for Illinois, however a very unlikely one. Illinois likely did not pursue him heavily prior to the Michigan commitment, and Love is likely focused on some higher profile schools.

Per 247sports, Love is being courted by Texas, Gonzaga and Arizona. Even if Love had interest in Illinois, the fit is very questionable. Love is a high-volume scorer, not a facilitator. That is not what Illinois needs.

SG Antonio Reeves Kentucky

2022-23 stats: 14.4 ppg 2.1 rebounds 1.1 assists 41.6% fg 39.8% 3pt.

Antonio Reeves is a Chicago native who played 3 years at Illinois State before playing the past season at Kentucky. Reeves played well for the Wildcats last year, however he came off the bench and did not do enough to be invited to the NBA Combine. Reeves participated in the G-league combine, however there have been rumblings about a departure from Kentucky. A Chicago native looking for another opportunity?

Sources have told us: Reeves has been hearing about the idea of transferring from multiple back-channels. Despite this, the chance of Antonio Reeves entering the portal is rather low. Antonio would have to take summer classes in order to officially graduate. Despite a talented freshman class, Reeves projects as the best shooter as the roster. That role could very well entice him into spending another year in Lexington. From an Illinois point of view, Reeves does not make a whole lot of sense if Terrence Shannon Jr does return.