Why Illinois Basketball Has an Elite Backcourt

Kylan Boswell and Kasparas Jakucionis are the two likely starters in the Illinois basketball backcourt. Most recently, ESPN’s way-too-early 2025 mock draft listed Jakucionis as the 18th prospect overall. Additionally, there are mock drafts out there that have Boswell as a prospect in the 30’s. With two NBA draft prospects in the backcourt, the Illini are primed for immense success. Former Michigan basketball player, Ant Wright, has always made the case that national championship-caliber teams have at least one pro prospect on the perimeter. The Illini have two and their front court also houses some immense talent.

The only knock on this talented backcourt is youth. Jakucionis is 18 years old and has never played college basketball, however, he does have experience playing with FC Barcelona. Boswell is a 19-year-old who is hoping to prove that he is a five-star talent.

“I think him (Kasparas Jakucionis) & Kylan Boswell next year is a fucking awesome backcourt”- Sam Vecenie

Vecenie & Bryce Simon are VERY high on next year’s #illini squad pic.twitter.com/QMVpoWyBVV

— 🆃ⓐ🅹🅷 ♕ (@Recru1t1ng_Guru) June 4, 2024

The season of intrigue.

CREDIT: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

The 2024-2025 season is expected to be as intriguing a season as ever given the amount of talent on this roster. Additionally, Illinois basketball fans have not really seen any of these players in an Illini jersey, hence the anticipation is as high as can be. There is no doubt that Illinois will have talent at practically every position, however, their backcourt is one to be reckoned with. With two NBA draft prospects, Illinois basketball is in a position they have never been in.

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