Illinois Basketball’s Justin Harmon Is on Campus

Illinois Basketball’s Justin Harmon Is on Campus

At long last, Illinois Basketball has finalized its roster. The official social media account for Illinois Basketball introduced Justin Harmon to fans as he has finally arrived on campus. Harmon was one of the first commitments that Illinois Basketball received from the transfer portal. In the midst of the RayJ Dennis Saga, Marcus Domask and Justin Harmon created the foundation for a veteran heavy roster. It was a fun site at the time, as Jayden Epps and RJ Melendez announced their intent to transfer in the weeks before.

Ready to work.@justinharmon691 #Illini | #HTTO | #EveryDayGuys pic.twitter.com/jtomfS4GgJ

— Illinois Men's Basketball (@IlliniMBB) July 6, 2023

A much needed scoring punch.

There is no doubt that Brad Underwood will hand the point guard keys over to Ty Rodgers. That has been the talk of the town this entire offseason. Sencire Harris projects as the backup to Rodgers at the moment, however Harmon can slide over at times. Rodgers and Harris have outstanding defensive skills, however can struggle with a limited offensive skillset. Harmon compliments this notion very well.

Out of the three transfer portal additions, Justin Harmon has the most impressive statline. It is even more impressive considering that he played at arguably the least notable school prior to Illinois. Utah Valley is not necessary a household name, however they were well-coached by former NBA player, Mark Madsen. Harmon was able to benefit from a sturdy NIT run. Harmon played out of his mind during this run, averaging around 20 points per game. Utah Valley’s season was ended in an overtime loss in the finals to UAB.

Justin Harmon has the skillset to make an impact off as a secondary ball-handler in Champaign. He will need to tighten his handle and take care of the ball, however the Andres Feliz comparisons are hard to avoid.

Statistically impressive

Justin Harmon is at his best attacking the basket and getting to his leaners and floaters in the lane. He is really good at getting downhill and can score in a variety of ways off ball screens. Harmon had 175 possessions of Pick and Roll per Synergy Sports. For reference, Shannon Jr. and Jayden Epps combined for about 200 possessions. He was in the 41st percentile nationally in pick and roll. Harmon’s previous stop at Utah Valley featured a two big setup also wasn’t extremely conducive to open lanes to the hoop. Hopefully better spacing will help iron out some of his turnover problems (career negative assist to turnover ratio).

In short, Illinois Basketball fans can breathe easy knowing that there are no more recruiting battles or hidden storylines to follow. Seeing Harmon end up on campus after numerous rumors that he would not make it, is a welcome sign. If Harmon can reproduce what Andres Feliz brought to Illinois, I think all fans would be very satisfied.