Sunday, December 23, 2007

Illini Recruiting Summary through 2010

Congrats to Coach Bruce Weber and Jerrance Howard on their recruiting success recently. As we look ahead to the 2008, 2009 and 2010 classes, we have much to be optimistic about, as we build on the Class of 2007.

2007 Class
McCamey, Pt Guard
Davis, Forward
Cole, Forward
Tisdale, Center
Add: Legion, Shooting Guard via transfer

2008 Class
Simpson, Center

2009 Class
Richardson, Guard
Bertrand, Guard/Wing
Paul, Guard/Wing

2010 Class
Richmond, Wing/Forward
Head, Wing (expected to commit in January)

The Illini will start taking on a new look next season, with Jamar Smith back at shooting guard along with Alex Legion becoming eligible in the second half of the season.

The Illini will be loaded in 2009, with three freshman guards joining Smith and Legion.

The Illini will be particularly dangerous in 2010, since they will have the 2007 class, the guards of 2009, along with Richmond and Head, assuming no one is leaving college early.

Basically, Illini fans need some patience, since 2008 will be another rebuilding year, followed by expected improvement in 2009 and 2010, when Illinois can be expected to be a national powerhouse once again.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Here is your internet gift. Look for Jamar to play in jan of 08.Not a done deal, but will likely happen.

Scott

Ron said...

This is a great scoop if there is anything to it. They could really use Jamar this season, that's for sure. But if they want Jamar around for the 2010 season, it seems they would keep him redshirted and save the eligibility. Thanks for the scoop.

Ron said...

To clarify, Jamar Smith has two years of eligibility left, so if he sits out the rest of this season, he can play for the Illini in the 2008-2009 season, and finish in the 2009-2010 season.