Illinois Basketball Star Looking to Catch Fire Again

Illinois Basketball Star Looking to Catch Fire Again

As to be expected, there has been some rust after serving a 6-game suspension for Terrence Shannon Jr. The Illinois Basketball star has gotten off to a steady start for Brad Underwood, however, the numbers have not popped off the stat sheet. Thus far, scoring 16 versus Rutgers in a 4-10 shooting performance is Shannon’s most production since his short-lived return. In-state rival Northwestern and border rival Indiana were able to hold Shannon to 12 apiece in his last two games. Terrance has also shot 1-15 from deep since his 3-game return as well. Not bad stats by any means, but they are average, which is certainly not typical for the projected NBA draft pick.

Shannon’s Impact at the Bucket

Illinois had been brutal at the rim in their previous matchups versus the Wildcats of Northwestern, and the Indiana Hoosiers. It has been hard to get layups to go down, and second and third-chance putback opportunities are just being missed. Terrence brings a presence like no other to the floor when it comes to the fast break and aggression at the bucket. No one does this better in the Big Ten than Shannon, and it could be argued that before his suspension, he was the best in the nation. This needs to be a key focus for Terrance and the rest of the Illini, as they prepare for Ohio State.

Put it All Together

Underwood made lemonade out of life’s lemons. He was able to capitalize on their bench and role players better during Shannon’s absence. Players like Justin Harmon, Quincy Guerrier, and Marcus Domask have taken major steps forward in their game. This created a unit of players who could step up and have big games. If Illinois can get their role players to get on heaters, and on the same page with Shannon,  this Illini team will be hard to stop, come March. Terrence will find his rhythm once again. Whether the rest of the Illini roster is still along for the ride, will be the question.