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Illinois Basketball: Who Are the Top Ten Players of the Brad Underwood Era? - Armchair Illinois
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Illinois Basketball: Who Are the Top Ten Players of the Brad Underwood Era?

Brad Underwood has coached some legends of the Illinois basketball program which has made him one of the more successful coaches in program history.

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Illinois Basketball head coach Brad Underwood
Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

Under the leadership of Brad Underwood, Illinois Basketball has experienced a true renaissance, fueled by elite recruiting and his ability to shape talent into a cohesive, hard-nosed unit built on the principles of his “Everyday Guy” philosophy. That cultural overhaul has certainly paid off — and with the program’s resurgence, the wins have followed.

From a tough run during the John Groce era — marked by frequent losses and postseason absences— to Big Ten titles, an Elite Eight appearance, and a return to national relevance, the transformation led by the Illini’s veteran leader has been truly remarkable. Since arriving from Oklahoma State in 2017, Underwood has guided Illinois to a 165–101 overall record (.620) — going 92–66 in Big Ten play, with five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2021 to 2025.

Underwood’s success in Champaign, of course, is strongly driven by the high-level talent he’s recruited and developed over eight seasons—producing stars who’ve defined a return to national relevance for Illinois Basketball.

That said, Hardwood Reports recently released their rankings of the top ten Illinois Basketball players during the Underwood era, and overall, it’s a pretty solid list. Like any ranking, it sparks debate; however, more than anything, it’s another reminder of just how many great players have impacted the program since Underwood took the reins in March of 2017 — and just how far Illinois has come because of it.

Illinois Basketball head coach Brad Underwood

Credit: Ron Johnson. Imagn Images.

Opinion: My Top Ten Illinois Basketball Players of the Brad Underwood Era

First, I’ve excluded current players. As talented as some of them clearly are, their story isn’t finished yet, and it wouldn’t be totally fair to rank incomplete careers. Second, this list isn’t just about stats or accolades; it’s about impact on the program — how these players helped shape the Underwood era and pushed Illinois Basketball back into the forefront of national relevance.

So, from closers and culture changers, to physical imposers —here’s my list of the top ten players of the Brad Underwood era.

1 –  Ayo Dosunmu

Career Stats at Illinois: 1,504 points | 16.7 PPG AVG | 47.0% FG | 34.5 % 3PT | 97 steals | 20 blocks | 1 NCAA Tournament Appearance | 1 Big Ten Tournament Title | USA Today National Player of the Year | Wooden Award Finalist | Naismith Award Finalist |Associated Press First-Team All-American, the first-ever Illini voted to first team by AP | University of Illinois Athlete of the Year | All Big Ten 

Why?  Ayo was the embodiment of Brad Underwood’s “everyday guy” mentality—a guard with toughness, grit, and relentless drive. Following a heartbreaking end to the 2019–20 season—when Illinois finished 4th in the Big Ten but had its postseason dreams cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic—Ayo returned with a vengeance in 2020–21. He led the Illini to their first No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament since 2005 and delivered a Big Ten Tournament title to a fanbase starved for the success the program once knew.

Certainly, breaking the losing cycle was not an easy thing to do in the face of a lot of pressure, and the young man did it with pride.

More than anything, Ayo was a closer. In crunch time, with the game on the line, he was the guy you wanted with the ball in his hands. Illinois has had some great late-game players, but when it comes to delivering in clutch moments, it’s hard to put anyone above Ayo.

Despite VERY stiff competition for the No.1 spot, Ayo gets the edge for leading Illinois Basketball out of the Big Ten basement and back into the national spotlight, and restoring belief in what Illini basketball could be again.

The Chicago native is currently living out his dreams back home in the Windy City, competing for the Chicago Bulls.

2 – Terrence Shannon Jr.

Career Stats at Illinois: 1,270 points | 20.2 PPG AVG | 46.0% FG | 34.4 % 3 PT | 72 steals | 43 blocks | 2 NCAA Tournament Appearances | 1 Big Ten Title | 1 Big Tournament Ten Title | U of I Athlete of the Year | Third Team All American | All Big Ten 

Why – Leaving Terrence Shannon Jr. out of the top spot was no easy call. In terms of sheer ability and impact, there’s a strong case to be made for him at No. 1. A dynamic two-way force, Shannon was not only a prolific scorer but also a tenacious defender, and his postseason dominance helped elevate Illinois to its deepest NCAA Tournament run in nearly two decades.

In just two seasons in Champaign, TSJ picked up the baton and carried forward the momentum that Underwood and Dosunmu had reignited within the program. He helped Illinois claim its first Big Ten regular-season title under Underwood (first since 2005) and pushed the program to an Elite Eight appearance in 2023-2024—the deepest NCAA run since the 2005 national runner-up team.

Ultimately, Ayo gets the nod at No. 1 for lifting Illinois out of its lowest point and restoring national relevance. However, very few have impacted the Illinois Basketball program the way Shannon Jr. did in only two seasons in Champaign. His time in the 217 not only continued the upward trajectory of the program—it helped cement Illinois as a respected force among the college basketball landscape.

Since being selected 27th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Chicago native has been working to carve out a larger role off the bench in Minneapolis and earn increased minutes—determined to prove he belongs on the game’s biggest stage.

3 – Kofi Cockburn

Career Stats at Illinois: 1,546 points | 20.2 PPG AVG | 59.6% FG | 50 steals | 111 blocks | 2 NCAA Tournament Appearance | 1 Big Tournament Ten Title | First Team All American | Naismith Finalist | All Big Ten 

Why? At 7 feet tall and nearly 300 pounds, Kofi Cockburn was a physically overwhelming force who dominated the paint for Illinois Basketball throughout his three-year career in Champaign. The Kingston, Jamaica native was nearly impossible to gameplan for—a true throwback big man who blended raw strength with elite touch around the rim. Whether it was overpowering defenders or anchoring the defense as a rim protector, Kofi was a matchup nightmare every time he stepped on the floor.

His presence in the middle was the foundation of Illinois’ return to prominence, and his consistency on both ends helped propel the Illini to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a Big Ten Tournament title.

Kofi was, without question, one of the most dominant post players in Illinois history—and arguably the most physically imposing to ever wear an Illini uniform. His impact during the Underwood era can’t be overstated, and his legacy as an Illini legend is firmly cemented.

These days, you can find Kofi continuing his career in Japan, where the big man is for the Hiroshima Fireflies.

 

4 – Trent Frazier

Career Stats at Illinois: 1,794 points | 11.4 PPG | 39.0% FG | 35.1% 3PT | 207 steals | 10 blocks | 2 NCAA Tournament Appearances | 1 Big Ten Tournament Title | All Big Ten

Why – The OG Everyday Guy. While Ayo and Kofi were the stars of Illinois’ resurgence, it was players like Trent Frazier who laid the foundation as one of Brad Underwood’s original recruits, after previously committing to John Groce in 2016. Without his loyalty, toughness, and belief in the bigger picture, it’s hard to imagine the Brad Underwood era without thinking of Trent.

Frazier played five seasons in Champaign, arriving as a confident shot-maker and evolving into a fierce competitor and elite perimeter defender. He embraced Brad Underwood’s system, even when it meant sacrificing his offensive role to fit the team’s needs. In an era where transfers are common and patience is rare, Trent stayed the course—through losing seasons, roster overhauls, and role changes.

His loyalty never wavered, and Illini fans adored him for it.

Fraizer finished as the fifth all-time leading scorer in program history, but his legacy can’t be measured in stats alone. He was the heartbeat of Underwood’s rebuild, and the bridge between eras—who endured the lows and helped carry the program to new heights.

Currently, Frazier continues his career on the hardwood, competing for Zenit St. Petersburg in Russia.

5 – Marcus Domask

Career Stats at Illinois: 613 points | 11.4 PPG | 45.3% FG | 29.7% 3 PT | 14 steals | 13 blocks | 1 NCAA Tournament Appearances | 1 Big Ten Title | 1 Big Ten Tournament title | First Team All Big Ten | Big Ten Newcomer of the Year

<strong>Why – After spending four seasons in the Missouri Valley Conference at Southern Illinois, Wisconsin native Marcus Domask arrived in Champaign in 2023 as a seasoned, high-IQ veteran—and quickly became the perfect anchor alongside Terrence Shannon Jr.— forming one of the nation’s most dynamic duos. Together, they led Illinois to a Big Ten Tournament title, a share of the Big Ten regular season crown, and the program’s deepest NCAA Tournament run since 2005 with a trip to the Elite Eight.

Though he only spent one season in Champaign, Domask certainly made it count. He played a vital role as Illinois’ second-leading scorer and an all-around glue guy who did a little bit of everything. His versatility and leadership were key to one of the most successful teams of the Brad Underwood era, and his impact will be remembered as one of the best single-season transfer stints in Illini history.

After spending a short stint with the Chicago Bulls in the NBA G-League (Windy City Bulls), Marcus currently resides in Frankfurt, Germany, where he competes in the Federal Basketball League (Basketball Bundesliga) for the Frankfurt Skyliners.

 

 

6 – Coleman Hawkins

s=”yoast-text-mark” href=”https://fightingillini.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coleman-hawkins/13955″>>Career Stats at Illinois: 979 points | 12.7 PPG | 44.0% FG | 32.0% 3PT | 115 steals | 102 blocks | 4 NCAA Tournament Appearances | All-Big Ten Honorable Mention | Karl Malone Power Forward of the Year Finalist | 1 Big Ten Tournament Title | 1 Big Ten Title 

>Why No. 6 – Coleman Hawkins was the kind of player every team needs—a funny, lovable personality off the court</strong> (and excellent social media troll), but one who could flip a switch and become a serious, fierce competitor.

>>Spending four pivotal seasons in Champaign from 2020–21 through 2023–24, Hawkins was a key stabilizing presence during Illinois’ resurgence under Brad Underwood. A seemingly rare four-year player with NBA-level size, skill, and experience, Hawkins brought a unique blend of talent to Illinois, which made everyone around him better. While he may not have been the flashiest player on the floor, his ability to take over games when needed made him a true asset.

>After graduating, Hawkins took his talents to Kansas State for one final season as a graduate transfer, where he spent a rollercoaster year in Manhattan before declaring for the NBA Draft — where he now competes in the NBA Summer League for the Golden State Warriors.

Coleman’s leadership and consistency made him a foundational piece during one of the most exciting stretches in Illini basketball history, which ultimately places him high on this list for me.

7 – Kasparas Jakucionis

>Career Stats at Illinois:</strong> 494 points | 15 PPG  | 44.0% FG | 31.0% 3PT | 29 steals | 9 blocks | 1 NCAA Tournament Appearances | Big Ten All Freshman Team | Freshman All-America Team unanimous selection – The Athletic

<strong>Why – Despite being just 18 years old and thousands of miles from his home in Vilnius, Lithuania, Kasparas Jakucionis brought a rare level of maturity and leadership to Champaign, establishing himself as the Illini’s go-to guy when it mattered most. The freshman phenom led Illinois in scoring (15.0 PPG), free throws (85% – 142 FTM), and assists (4.7 APG) — a rare and impressive feat for any freshman, let alone one adjusting to high-major basketball in the Big Ten.

Of course, things weren’t always easy or smooth (which is to be expected for an 18-year-old in his situation). Between learning to navigate life in the U.S., Big Ten defenses, and the grind of a college season—including stretches where he battled injury—Jakucionis had more than a few challenges on his plate. However, despite the fact, KJ helped steady the Illini through some rollercoaster stretches, further guiding the team to the NCAA Tournament, and continuing Brad Underwood’s 5-year streak of March appearances.

>In June, the rare Illini one-and-done (to go pro) was selected 20th overall by the Miami Heat, just one pick ahead of fellow Illini freshman Will Riley.

>His maturity and rare skill on the court are undeniable, but his off-court influence is what makes him one of the most impactful players of the Underwood era. Despite having dabbled in international recruiting previously, Underwood put the pedal to the floor for 2024-25, bringing in KJ, Will Riley (Canada), and Tomislav Ivisic (Croatia) to be high-impact freshman on a team with a lot of needs, but an optimistic upside – all highlighted by the Illini’s star talent from Lithuania. Because of that, Brad Underwood has fully embraced the overseas recruiting pipeline, overhauling the ef=”https://fightingillini.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster”>2025–26 roster with strong European roots. Built on that heavy international foundation, Illinois looks poised for another strong season, tracing back to the influence of a freshman from Vilnius.

 

8 – Will Riley

<strong>Career stats at Illinois: 441 points | 12.6 ppg | 43.2 Fg % | 32.6 3pt % | Big Ten All Freshman Team | Big Ten 6th Man of the Year 

Why – To date, Will Riley is the highest-ranked prospect to commit to Illinois Basketball during the Brad Underwood era. The five-star forward committed to Illinois over a host of top-tier programs, then made the bold decision to reclassify into the class of 2024 — stepping up early to help address the Illini’s need for size and scoring ability. Right off the bat, the Canadian native showed his ability to light up the nets with a 31-point performance vs Eastern Illinois in his college debut.</a>  Riley grew as the year went on as a playmaker and as a three-level scorer to complement nicely with fellow international phenom Kasparas Jakucionis.</div>

<div>Will’s impressive freshman campaign and growth under Brad Underwood ultimately helped propel him to th

e 21st overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, where he was selected by the Utah Jazz; however was part of a trade deal to the Washington Wizards. Now, the former Illini freshman has the opportunity to find his role on a rebuilding franchise with a lot of young pieces around him.

<div>

9 – Alfonso Plummer

<strong>Career stats at Illinois: 482 points | 14.6 ppg | 42.4 FG % | 40.8 3 pt %| 1 Big Ten Title

Why? – In Alfonso Plummer’s lone season with Illinois Basketball, the sharpshooting grad transfer from

Utah played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the Ayo Dosunmu era and the arrival of Terrence Shannon Jr.

>Plummer was an electric scoring threat every time he stepp

ed on the floor — finishing as the team’s second-leading scorer behind  Kofi Cockburn. From beyond the arc, he was lethal, leading the Illini in three-point shooting (40.8% – 98-for-240</strong>), and providing the perfect perimeter complement to Kofi’s post presence. His fearless shooting gave Illinois a consistent and versatile offensive spark, making Illinois a matchup nightmare for many.

Off the court, Plummer brought maturity and composure to a roster adjusting to life after Ayo. The Fajardo, Puerto Rico native, offered veteran leadership and helped guide the Illini to a share of the Big Ten regular season title and another NCAA Tournament appearance for Brad Underwood in 2021–22</a

>.

>Currently, Alfonso is playing professionally in Germany’s EuroCup league with Ratiopharm Ulm, while also representing Puerto Rico on the international stage as a member of the national team.

 

 

10 – Andres Feliz

<strong>Career stats at Illinois: 816 points | 9.6 ppg, 3.9 RPG, and 2.6 APG

<strong>Why – The definition of Brad Underwood’s “everyday guy,” Andres Feliz quickly became a fan favorite in Champaign for his relentless toughness, quiet leadership, and tireless work ethic. A steady veteran presence from the JUCO ranks (Northwest Florida State), Underwood teamed Feliz up with Trent Frazier and Da’Monte Williams to form the gritty backbone of a rebuilding Illinois Basketball program — one that was finally clawing its way back to national relevance. While Ayo Dosunmu was still developing into the star he’d eventually become, it was Andres’ steady presence at point guard that helped bring stability and toughness to an Illinois team that had been lacking both for years.

>Feliz undoubtedly played a crucial role in guiding Illinois from the bottom of the Big Ten, to igniting national relevance in Champaign, as Underwood’s vision of this program began to take shape. Unfortunately though, just as the Illini were gaining serious momentum and poised for Underwood’s long-awaited NCAA Tournament debut (at Illinois) — the COVID-19 pandemic brought the 2019–20 season to a devastating halt with the Illini finishing in 4th place in the Big Ten. Illinois had finally awakened the program’s sleeping giant status, and while Feliz didn’t get his March Madness one shining moment, he helped pave the way for Illinois’  success moving forward, catapulting the Fighting Illini to a No. 1 seed, and a Big Ten Tournament title the very next year.

The early years of Underwood’s tenure were undeniably rocky at times, but Feliz was a critical stabilizer. His daily consistency, leadership, and grit were instrumental in laying the foundation for everything that came next.

>Today, Andres is currently still hitting the hardwood professionally in Spain’s LIGA ACB, the country’s premier professional league, where he runs the point for Real Madrid.

 

<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGAebaoPT60

 

Honorable Mention: Giorgi Bezhanishvili

<strong>Career Stats at Illinois: 783 points | 8.3 PPG | 50.7% FG | 2.6% 3PT | 32 steals | 49 blocks | 88 assists | 1 NCAA Tournament Appearance | 1 Big Ten Tournament Title

Why – Few players in recent Illinois Basketball history matched the personality and passion of Giorgi Bezhanishvili. The big man from Georgia quickly became a fan favorite with his energy, smile, and crafty post play, bursting onto the scene with a standout freshman season in 2018–19—including a program freshman record 35 points vs. Rutgers.

>When Kofi Cockburn arrived on campus, Giorgi embraced a reduced role with maturity and team-first grit, anchoring the bench for the 2020–21 Big Ten Tournament champs.

>After three seasons, he departed Champaign to pursue a professional career—eager to support his family still overseas and begin the next chapter of his basketball journey. He now plays for the LNB Élite in France and the Liga ACB in the Spanish Premier League.

It’s hard not to imagine how beloved Giorgi would’ve been in the NIL era. Undoubtedly, his personality and fan-favorite status could’ve made him a marketing star.

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Kirkland is an expert source for Illinois athletics news. He is the lead Football analyst at Armchair Illini and has been featured in top media publications like Bleacher Report, Yard Barker, Autograph, Newsbreak, CBS Sports and more.

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