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Illinois Basketball’s Morez Johnson Continues to Rise

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1 year ago

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Twitter: @Morezjohnsonjr https://twitter.com/morezjohnsonJr/status/1444451853962518529/photo/3

Illinois Basketball’s Morez Johnson Continues to Rise

Morez Johnson Jr committed to Illinois Basketball almost two years ago. As a Sophomore, Johnson Jr had no hesitation in committing to the Illini and has stayed loyal. Morez’s game has developed strongly since then. He continues to improve his stock and to catch the attention of national media including Brandon Jenkins of 247. Jenkins noted that Johnson will be a “notable name” during his time in the Big Ten. Morez most recently was found to be ranked number 33 in the ESPN top 100 in the class of 2024.

Morez has benefitted from a more open front court. The past years, he has played alongside high school teammate, James Brown. Though the two are talented, both share similar skillsets that end up clogging the paint. Since Brown has switched to Mokan Elite’s EYBL team, Johnson is enjoying the benefits of spacing. Throughout this EYBL season, Morez has put up 13.1 points per game in addition to 9.8 rebounds. Additionally, he has earned Nike EYBL all-first team honors.

The projected fit in Champaign.

Illinois Basketball will not have Coleman Hawkins and Terrence Shannon to start the 2024 season. Without a doubt, Morez Johnson will be one of the focal points on the team that starts the 2024 season. In the first year of what will be a newer era for Illinois Basketball, Johnson projects as one of the most talented prospects on the team. If Ty Rodgers, Sencire Harris and Luke Goode all chose to return, Johnson will be a strong compliment to those veteran players.

Also, Johnson will play alongside Amani Hansberry in what will be an intriguing front court. The Chicago native has the length, athleticism and defensive prowess to compliment Hansberry’s growing perimeter game and rebounding expertise. Johnson Jr. and Hansberry would be the perfect mix of skill and revved up motor.

Player Comparison

Player comparisons are always difficult, particularly in the prep prospects. We always want to pick a name that is recognizable and one that fans are aware with. However, there is a line between picking one and comparing a kid to NBA superstars.

Ant Wright used the name Harry Giles in his prospect breakdown. Giles is an above average athlete who excelled in high school because of his motor and vertical explosion. I think a name like Bobby Portis is an adept comparison for Johnson jr. Both have solid athleticism, however have a strong motor that benefits them on the glass. Adebayo is a little more skilled and defensively versatile, while Portis is more of a paint presence. Hence, my amateur opinion leads me to a name like Bobby Portis.

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Alex is the Owner of Armchairillini.com, your go-to source for in depth coverage of the Illinois Fighting Illini. Alex is also the lead content creator and lead editor of all articles on Armchair Illini. He has had articles featured in top media publications like Bleacher Report, YardBarker, Verbal Commits, CBS Sports and more.

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