Basketball
NEWS: Illini center Morez Johnson Jr. enters transfer portal
Freshman Morez Johnson Jr. will be a huge loss for the Illini

The ever-changing world of college athletics has struck again—this time, shaking up the Illinois Basketball program. In a shocking development, freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. has now officially entered his name into the transfer portal, per multiple reports.
This may certainly come as surprising news to many Illini fans, as there were early rumblings that Johnson had planned to stay in Champaign.
Unfortunately, this is yet another reminder of how fluid roster management has become in today’s NIL and transfer portal era. Keeping a team together isn’t just a challenge—it’s a daily battle, where relationships and circumstances can change in an instant. While the Illini have certainly benefited from these new rules and resources, today was not one of those days.
Despite sharing minutes with talented big man Tomislav Ivisic, Johnson made a significant impact for the Fighting Illini in 2025. The 6’9” freshman averaged 7.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 64% from the field, proving to be a key presence in the frontcourt.
Now, the pressing questions emerge: Why did Morez decide to move on from Illinois? And just as crucially, who will the Illini staff turn to in order to fill this unexpected and significant void?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
We at Armchair Illini are proudly sponsored by Hamilton Walker’s Steak, Seafood, and Spirits. Located in the heart of downtown Champaign, there is certainly no better restaurant for Illini fans to visit. Order online here or call (217) 350-0363 to make a reservation.
Above all, for feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at alexkyi13@gmail.com. Additionally, please use our Seatgeek code for $20 off your purchase on Seatgeek.com: ARMCHAIRILLINOIS. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing Illinois media outlets around.
Thank you for reading Armchair Illini! Furthermore, subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
-
Basketball1 day ago
Illinois basketball vs Illinois State: TV Channel and Gameday guide
-
Basketball7 days ago
Former Illini Coleman Hawkins signs with the Denver Nuggets
-
Basketball3 days ago
Why Illini freshman Keaton Wagler is ready to live up to the hype
-
Basketball2 days ago
Top Shooting Guard Jasiah Jervis lists Illinois basketball in top-5
-
Basketball3 days ago
Illinois basketball ranked sixth in 2025 preseason KenPom rankings
-
Basketball5 days ago
Illinois Basketball Enters 2025-26 Ranked 17th in the AP Poll.
-
Basketball2 days ago
Where does Illinois basketball sit in all rankings heading into 2025 season?
-
Basketball17 hours ago
Is Illinois Basketball a Final Four Contender in 2025-26?