The Illinois Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball team is one of the most storied programs in college basketball. Located in the heart of the Midwest, the Illini have been a mainstay in the NCAA Tournament for decades and have a history of producing some of the greatest players and coaches in the game.
Led by head coach Brad Underwood, the Fighting Illini currently compete in the Big Ten Conference and have won numerous conference titles and national championships, most recently in 2005. With a strong commitment to excellence, the Illini are sure to continue to be a force in college basketball for years to come.
1. Derek Harper
Career
- 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1987, 1990)
- No. 12 retired by Dallas Mavericks
- Second-team All-American – AP (1983)
- First-team Parade All-American (1980)
Derek Harper is one of the most decorated point guards in NBA history. He was a four-time All-Star and won two Championships with the Dallas Mavericks. Derek Harper played collegiately at Illinois where he averaged 17 points, six assists, and three rebounds per game during his career.
Derek Harper was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 1983 and played for them until 1999 when he retired from professional basketball.
Derek Harper is considered to be one of the best point guard players ever to play in the NBA and has been inducted into both the Basketball Hall of Fame (2002) as well as The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2004).
After retiring from playing professionally, Derek Harper became an assistant coach with various teams including stints with Indiana Pacers (2007–2010), Memphis Grizzlies (2011–2014), Philadelphia 76ers (2015), and Charlotte Hornets (2016).
Derek Harper was a two-time All-Defensive Second Team selection and a first-team Parade All-American.
Harper spent his entire 15-year NBA career with the New York Knicks, where he won an NBA Championship in 1994. He also played for Dallas Mavericks and Orlando Magic before retiring in 1999.
2. Deron Williams
Point guard
Career
- High school: The Colony (The Colony, Texas)
- College: Illinois (2002–2005)
- NBA draft 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
- Selected by the Utah Jazz
- Playing career: 2005–2017
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 8, 31
- 2005–2011: Utah Jazz
- 2011–2015: New Jersey / Brooklyn Nets
- 2011: Beşiktaş
- 2015–2017: Dallas Mavericks
- 2017: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 3× NBA All-Star (2010–2012), 2× All-NBA Second Team (2008, 2010), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2006), No. 8 retired by Beşiktaş, No. 5 jersey honored by Illinois, Consensus second-team All-American (2005), 2× First-team All-Big Ten – Media (2004, 2005), 2× First-team All-Big Ten – Coaches (2004, 2005)
- Points: 13,804 (16.3 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,619 (3.1 rpg)
- Assists: 6,819 (8.1 apg)
- Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing the United States, Olympic Games, : 2008 Beijing: Team, : 2012 London: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 2007 Las Vegas: , FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2002 Isla Margarita: Team
- Men's Basketball
- Representing the United States
- Olympic Games
- : 2008 Beijing: Team
- : 2012 London: Team
- FIBA Americas Championship
- : 2007 Las Vegas:
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2002 Isla Margarita: Team
Deron Williams is a retired point guard who played in the NBA for 10 seasons. He was drafted third overall by the Utah Jazz in 2005 and spent five seasons with them before joining the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets franchise in 2011.
Deron won an NBA championship with the Brooklyn Nets in 2017, his last season playing professionally. Deron Williams is a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA Second Team selection. In 2005, he was the consensus second-team All-American.
He played for the Dallas Mavericks from 2007 to 2015 before joining the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
3. Kendall Gill
Career
- High school: Rich Central, (Olympia Fields, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1986–1990)
- NBA draft 1990 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
- Selected by the Charlotte Hornets
- Playing career: 1990–2005
- Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
- Number: 13, 9, 12
- 1990–1993: Charlotte Hornets
- 1993–1995: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1995–1996: Charlotte Hornets
- 1996–2001: New Jersey Nets
- 2001–2002: Miami Heat
- 2002–2003: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 2003–2004: Chicago Bulls
- 2004–2005: Milwaukee Bucks
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1991), NBA steals leader (1999), Most Steals in One Game (11), Consensus second-team All-American (1990)
- Points: 12,914 (13.4 ppg)
- Rebounds: 4,002 (4.1 rpg)
- Steals: 1,519 (1.6 spg)
Kendall Gill was a shooting guard and small forward who played in the NBA for 13 seasons. He is best known for his time with the Charlotte Hornets, where he won two championships.
Kendall Gill started his career at Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields, Illinois before going on to play college ball at Illinois. After being drafted fifth overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 1990, Gill spent three years with them before signing with the Golden State Warriors as a free agent in 1993.
In 1996, Kendall Gill signed with the Dallas Mavericks and helped them win their first championship that season. He retired from professional basketball following the 2005–2006 season Kendall Gill was a standout player during his time at Seattle SuperSonics.
He averaged over 12 points per game and 4 rebounds while stealing the ball more than anyone else in the NBA.
After being drafted by Charlotte Hornets, Kendall played there for two seasons before moving on to New Jersey Nets where he continued to be one of the best defenders in the league and averaged nearly 16 points per game.
In 2001, Kendall joined Miami Heat where he won consecutive MVP Awards and helped lead them to their first championship appearance in 2006. Following his stint with Miami, Kendall signed with Minnesota Timberwolves but only played there for one season before retiring from playing professional basketball in 2003.
Nowadays, Kendall is an analyst for ESPN covering both college and NBA games as well as serving as a color commentator for several tournaments such as NCAA Men’s Division 1 Basketball Championship Game telecasted annually throughout March Madness week by CBS Sports Network.
4. Nick Anderson
Career
- High school: Simeon Career Academy, (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1987–1989)
- NBA draft 1989 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
- Selected by the Orlando Magic
- Playing career: 1989–2002
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 25
- 1989–1999: Orlando Magic
- 1999–2001: Sacramento Kings
- 2001–2002: Memphis Grizzlies
- First-team All-Big Ten (1989), Second-team Parade All-American (1986), McDonald's All-American (1986), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1986)
- Points: 11,529 (14.4 ppg)
- Rebounds: 4,064 (5.1 rpg)
- Steals: 1,114 (1.4 spg)
Nick Anderson was born in Chicago, Illinois on January 20th, 1968. He played high school basketball for Simeon Career Academy and went on to play college ball at Illinois.
Nick was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 1989 and played with them until 2002 when he retired as a professional player. In his 10-year NBA career, Anderson averaged 14 points per game while shooting over 43% from the field overall and 38% from three point range which earned him several All-Star nominations along the way.
After retiring as a player, Anderson started working as an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies before taking up a role with ESPN where he currently works as an analyst for NBA games alongside John Stockton and Kobe Bryant.
Nick Anderson was a standout player at Illinois and was drafted in the first round of the 1989 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic.
He played for four teams in nine seasons before retiring in 2002. Anderson averaged 14.4 points per game during his career and 5.1 rebounds per game, becoming one of only three players to average over 16 points and five rebounds throughout their careers (the others are Karl Malone and Hakeem Olajuwon).
He has also been known for his strong defense, ranking among the top 10 rebounders in league history despite never averaging more than 1 steal per game throughout his entire career.
5. Johnny Kerr
Career
- High school: Tilden (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1951–1954)
- NBA draft 1954 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
- Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
- Playing career: 1954–1966
- Position: Center
- Number: 10, 43
- As player:, NBA champion (1955), 3× NBA All-Star (1956, 1959, 1963), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI, Look (1954), , As coach:, , NBA Coach of the Year (1967)
- Points: 12,480 (13.8 ppg)
- Rebounds: 10,092 (11.2 rpg)
- Assists: 2,004 (2.2 apg)
Kerr was drafted sixth overall by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1954 NBA draft. He played for six seasons with the Nationals and then spent one season playing with the Philadelphia Warriors before joining the Chicago Bulls in 1966.
Kerr is best known for his time coaching the Bulls, where he led them to three consecutive championship appearances from 1991 to 1993. After retiring as a player, Kerr became head coach of various teams including USA Basketball and Spain's Real Madrid Basket Club before his death in 2009 at age 76.
Kerr played 13 seasons in the NBA with Syracuse, Philadelphia and Baltimore. He was a three-time All-Star and won an NBA championship as coach of the Chicago Bulls in 1996.
Kerr is also known for his work as a broadcaster with NBC, TNT and Fox Sports Midwest. In 2009, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame alongside former player Rick Majerus.
6. Kofi Cockburn
Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Christ the King, (Middle Village, New York), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
- College: Illinois (2019–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- Consensus First-team All-American (2022), Consensus Second-team All-American (2021), 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2021, 2022), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2020), 2× Nike Hoop Summit (2018, 2019)
Kofi Cockburn is a Jamaican basketball player who was drafted by the Niigata Albirex BB in the second round of the 2018 JBA Draft. Kofi has represented his country at both U17 and U20 levels, winning a gold medal at the 2017 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship.
He started playing organized basketball at age 10, when he joined Christ The King High School in Kingston, Jamaica. His athleticism and skill led him to play college ball with Illinois State University before being drafted by Niigata Albirex BB in Japan's National Basketball Association.
2nd Round draft on July 6th, 2018 Kofi hopes to represent Jamaica internationally one day and contribute towards its future sporting success Kofi Cockburn is a 2021-22 consensus First-team All-American and Big Ten Freshman of the Year.
Kofi was drafted in the 20th round by the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers but has not played in that league yet. He is currently playing for Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia where he averaged 24 points per game as a senior this year.
Kofi is projected to be one of the top 2020 NBA Draft prospects and has received comparisons to players like Kyrie Irving and Stephen Curry due to his scoring ability and explosive athleticism.
Kofi is looking forward to continuing his basketball career at Illinois next season before potentially entering the draft again later on down the line.
7. Donnie Freeman
Career
- High school: Madison (Madison, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1963–1966)
- NBA draft 1966 / Round: 3 / Pick: 29th overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
- Playing career: 1967–1976
- Position: Shooting guard / Point guard
- Number: 20, 13
- 1967–1970: Minnesota Muskies / Miami Floridians
- 1971: Utah Stars
- 1971–1972: Texas / Dallas Chaparrals
- 1972–1974: Indiana Pacers
- 1974–1975: San Antonio Spurs
- 1975–1976: Los Angeles Lakers
- ABA champion (1973), ABA All-Time Team, 5× ABA All-Star (1968–1972), All-ABA First Team (1972), 3× All-ABA Second Team (1969–1971)
- Points: 12,233 (18.9 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,292 (3.5 rpg)
- Assists: 2,292 (3.5 apg)
Freeman was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1966 NBA draft. He played for the Minnesota Muskies and Miami Floridians during his career. Freeman is best known for his time with the Utah Stars, where he won an NBA championship in 1971.
After retiring from playing basketball, Freeman moved into broadcasting and worked as a commentator for various leagues including the WNBA and EuroLeague tournaments. In 2016, Freeman became head coach of the Madison Musketeers men's basketball team in Wisconsin Dells.
Wisconsin but resigned after one season due to health concerns related to a dementia diagnosis Freeman was a key part of the 1971-1972 Texas Chaparrals, who won the ABA Championship.
Freeman played for the Indiana Pacers from 1972 to 1974 and then teamed up with San Antonio Spurs in 1975. He left basketball after one season to focus on his business interests but came back in 1976 when he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The versatile forward finished his playing career with 3 more All-ABA Second Team selections, 2 ASM First Teams, and 1 MVP award in 1973 as a champion of the ABA Playoffs against Kentucky Colonels (the eventual NBA Champions).
After retiring from basketball, Freeman became an executive vice president at PepsiCo where he still works today; he is also involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors including work with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation among others.
8. Terrence Shannon Jr.
Texas Tech Red Raiders men's basketball
Career
- High school: , Lincoln Park, (Chicago, Illinois), IMG Academy, (Bradenton, Florida)
- College: , Texas Tech (2019–2022), Illinois (2022–present)
- Third-team All-Big 12 (2021), Big 12 All-Freshman Team (2019)
Terrence Shannon Jr. is a 2020 graduate of Lincoln Park High School in Chicago, Illinois, and played college ball for the Illinois Fighting Illini. Terrence has been listed as 6'6" and 215 lbs on most websites that list his information, making him one of the biggest players in college basketball.
He averaged 14 points per game as a freshman with the Fighting Illini before declaring for the NBA draft following his sophomore season. In March 2019, Shannon was arrested after an alleged altercation at a hotel near campus where he was attending an NCAA tournament game against Kentucky Wildcats.
The incident remains under investigation but no charges have yet been filed. As of September 2019, Shannon is playing professional basketball with MHP Riesen Ludwigsburg in Germany's ProB league.
9. Matthew Mayer
Career
- High school: Westlake, (Austin, Texas)
- College: , Baylor (2018–2022), Illinois (2022–present)
- NCAA champion (2021)
Matthew Mayer was born on September 23, 1999 in Chicago, IL. He is a shooting guard and small forward for the Illinois Fighting Illini. Mayer has played college basketball for the Illinois Fighting Illini since 2016-17 season.
In his freshman year (2016-17) he averaged 7 points per game and 2 rebounds per game while playing 29 minutes per contest.
His sophomore year (2017-18) saw him average 18 points per game and 5 rebounds per game while playing 37 minutes per contest as a starter for the Fighting Illini team that made it to the NCAA Tournament where they lost in the first round to Kentucky Wildcats 97-85.
His junior year (2018-19) was even better as he averaged 25 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 1 steal while starting all 34 contests of which he played for Illinois before declaring himself eligible for NBA Draft 2019 on April 16th.
10. Luther Head
Houston Rockets
Career
- High school: Manley Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2001–2005)
- NBA draft 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
- Selected by the Houston Rockets
- Playing career: 2005–2018
- Position: Shooting guard / Point guard
- Number: 2, 13, 9
- 2005–2009: Houston Rockets
- 2009: Miami Heat
- 2009–2010: Indiana Pacers
- 2010–2011: Sacramento Kings
- 2012–2013: Austin Toros
- 2013: Texas Legends
- 2013: CB Valladolid
- 2014: Pioneros de Los Mochis
- 2015: Caneros de la Romana
- 2017–2018: Cape Breton Highlanders
- NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2006), Consensus second-team All-American (2005), First-team All-Big Ten (2005)
Luther Head played for the Houston Rockets from 2005-2018. He was drafted 24th overall by the Rockets in the 2005 NBA Draft and had a successful career with them.
Luther Head is best known for his time with Houston, where he averaged 12 points per game over his 7 seasons there. In 2018, Luther signed with the Milwaukee Bucks and has since been averaging 18 points per game.
Luther Head played professional basketball in several countries before coming to the United States and playing for the Miami Heat. Luther Head was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2010, but he never appeared in a game for them due to injury.
He then signed with the Sacramento Kings, who waived him after just one season. Luther Head moved on to play for various Spanish teams until landing with the Austin Toros of the NBA Development League (D-League).
With Austin Toros, Luther Head won a championship and received All-NBA D-League First Team honors as well as being named MVP of the D-League Finals series against Oklahoma City Blue (now OKC Thunder).
In 2017–2018, Luther joined Cape Breton Highlanders of Canada's National Basketball League (NBL) where he helped lead them to their first NBL Championship title since 2000 while averaging 21 points per game and 7 rebounds per contest en route to earning.
Most Valuable Player honors; additionally, his Defensive Player of Year award made him the only player ever twice awarded that distinction within two different leagues at once.
11. James Augustine
BC Khimki
Career
- High school: Lincoln-Way Central, (New Lenox, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2002–2006)
- NBA draft 2006 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
- Selected by the Orlando Magic
- Playing career: 2006–2018
- Position: Power forward
- 2006–2008: Orlando Magic
- 2007: →Anaheim Arsenal
- 2008–2010: Gran Canaria
- 2010–2011: Power Electronics Valencia
- 2011–2012: UCAM Murcia
- 2012–2016: Khimki
- 2016–2017: CSKA Moscow
- 2017–2018: Unicaja
- EuroCup champion (2015), All-EuroCup Second Team (2010), VTB United League champion (2017), VTB United League Sixth Man of the Year (2014), Spanish League Top Rebounder (2012), EuroLeague Top Rebounder (2018)
Augustine played college basketball for Illinois and was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2006. After two seasons with the Magic, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2008.
Augustine spent four more seasons with Milwaukee before being waived in 2013. He then signed with the Russian team Khimki for one year but left after just six games due to a knee injury.
In 2018, Augustine joined the Greek club PAOK as a free agent but retired from professional basketball shortly afterward citing health concerns stemming from his time playing overseas as reasons behind his decision. Augustine was born in Manchester, England on July 20th, 1987.
Augustine played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals before being drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2008. In 2010, he signed with Gran Canaria of Spain and helped lead his team to a Liga ACB championship that year.
He then moved to Valencia in 2011 and posted averages of 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while helping his team make it all the way to the EuroLeague Final Four that season where they lost to CSKA Moscow.
After two seasons in Valencia, Augustine transferred to Khimki of Russia where he averaged 14 points per game over three years before retiring from professional basketball following the 2016-2017 season due to injury.
Since retirement, Augustine has worked as an assistant coach for UCAM Murcia, CSKA Moscow, Unicaja Málaga (both Spanish clubs), and most recently Anadolu Efes Istanbul (formerly known as Galatasaray).
12. Brandon Paul
Club Joventut Badalona
Career
- High school: Warren (Gurnee, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2009–2013)
- NBA draft: 2013 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2013–present
- 2013–2014: Nizhny Novgorod
- 2014–2015: Canton Charge
- 2015–2016: Joventut
- 2016–2017: Anadolu Efes
- 2017–2018: San Antonio Spurs
- 2018: →Austin Spurs
- 2019: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
- 2019–2020: Olympiacos
- 2020: Zhejiang Golden Bulls
- 2021: Adelaide 36ers
- 2021: Club Joventut Badalona
- 2022: Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin
- 2022–present: Ratiopharm Ulm
- 2× Third-team All-Big Ten (2012, 2013), Illinois Mr. Basketball (2009)
Brandon Paul is a shooting guard and small forward who played college basketball for Illinois. After going undrafted in the 2013 NBA draft, he joined Nizhny Novgorod of the Russian Basketball Super League.
He was waived by Nizhny Novgorod at the end of January 2014 and signed with German side Ulm shortly after. In February, Paul helped Ulm to win their first-ever EuroCup title, scoring 22 points in Game 6 against Valencia Basket (Spain).
He has since continued his good form in Germany, averaging 16 points per game this season as Ulm sits top of the league table with 18 games left to play.
Brandon Paul announced his retirement from professional basketball on December 5th, 2018 stating "after careful consideration and discussing it with my family we have decided that this is now my final stage." Born April 30 1991 in Gurnee Illinois USA.
13. Ayo Dosunmu
Chicago Bulls
Career
- High school: Morgan Park (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2018–2021)
- NBA draft 2021 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
- Selected by the Chicago Bulls
- Playing career: 2021–present
- 2021–present: Chicago Bulls
- NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2022), Consensus first-team All-American (2021), Bob Cousy Award (2021), 2× First-team All-Big Ten – Media (2020, 2021), First-team All-Big Ten – Coaches (2021), Second-team All-Big Ten – Coaches (2020), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2019), Big Ten tournament MOP (2021), No. 11 jersey honored by Fighting Illini
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2018 St. Catharines: Team
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2018 St. Catharines: Team
Dosunmu was born on January 17, 2000, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Morgan Park High School and played for the school's basketball team before joining the Illinois Fighting Illini as a freshman in 2018–19.
Dosunmu averaged 5.5 points, 1 rebound, and 0 assists per game during his time at Illinois but was named to the All-Big Ten Second Team following his sophomore season in 2021–22.
The shooting guard was drafted 38th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2021 NBA draft and made his professional debut with their G-League affiliate Windy City Bulls later that year.
Dosunmu has also appeared for both the UConn Huskies teams (2018 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament) and United States Virgin Islands national team (2019 Caribbean Championships).
Dosunmu was a consensus first-team All-American and Bob Cousy Award winner as a junior, leading Illinois to the Final Four. The Nigerian-born Dosunmu averaged 20 points, five rebounds, and four assists during his three seasons with the Fighting Illini.
Dosunmu signed with an agent in 2020 after declaring for the NBA Draft but did not hire one before returning to college for his senior season. After graduating from Illinois in May 2021, Dosunmu signed with the Houston Rockets but was waived shortly thereafter due to injuries sustained in preseason games.
Dosunmu joined the Philadelphia 76ers’ affiliate team Fort Wayne Mad Ants on October 16th of that year He made his debut for Philadelphia on November 21st against Brooklyn Nets scoring 10 points off the bench and recording 5 assists along with 3 steals.
14. André Curbelo
Career
- High school: Long Island Lutheran, (Brookville, New York)
- College: , Illinois (2020–2022), St. John's (2022–present)
- Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year (2021), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2021), Nike Hoop Summit (2019)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing Puerto Rico, FIBA Under-17 World Cup, : 2018 Argentina: , FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship, : 2017 Argentina: , Centrobasket Under-15 Championship, : 2016 Puerto Rico:
- Men's basketball
- Representing Puerto Rico
- FIBA Under-17 World Cup
- : 2018 Argentina:
- FIBA Americas Under-16 Championship
- : 2017 Argentina:
- Centrobasket Under-15 Championship
- : 2016 Puerto Rico:
Curbelo is a talented point guard who is a member of the St. John's Red Storm. He played college basketball for Illinois and was a key player on their team during the 2020–2022 season.
Curbelo was drafted by the St. John's Red Storm in the second round of the 2022 NBA draft. He has been a key player for the team during his time there and is expected to continue playing at a high level for many years to come.
Curbelo is a talented player who is capable of scoring and distributing the ball effectively. He is a Puerto Rican national and is a proud member of his community. Curbelo is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
He is a dedicated player who is always looking to give his all on the court. Curbelo is a talented player who is destined for great things in the future.
15. Roger Powell
Career
- High school: Joliet West (Joliet, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2001–2005)
- NBA draft: 2005 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2005–2011
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 43
- Coaching career: 2011–present
- As player, Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award (2007), All-CBA Second Team (2006), CBA Rookie of the Year (2006), CBA All-Rookie Team (2006), , As coach, , 2x Horizon League regular season champion (2012, 2013), Horizon League tournament champion (2013)
Roger Powell played college basketball at Illinois from 2001 to 2005. He was undrafted but had a successful NBA career playing for the Memphis Grizzlies, Washington Wizards, and Boston Celtics from 2005 to 2011.
Powell has been an assistant coach with the Gonzaga Bulldogs since 2011. He was a member of the USA Basketball Men's National Team that competed in the 2014 FIBA World Cup. Powell was born in Joliet, Illinois on January 15, 1983.
He stands at 6'6" and weighs 220 pounds. Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award (2007) All-CBA Second Team (2006) CBA Rookie of the Year (2006) All-CBA Team (2006).
WAC Coach of the Year (2007) NCAA Second Round (2006) WAC Tournament MVP (2007) Gonzaga's all-time assists leader (2017-present) Coached Gonzaga to their first NCAA championship (2018).
16. Brad Underwood
Career
- 1982–1983: Hardin–Simmons
- 1983–1984: Independence CC
- 1984–1986: Kansas State
- Position(s): Guard
- 1986-1987: Hardin–Simmons (GA)
- 1988–1992: Dodge City CC
- 1992–2003: Western Illinois (assistant)
- 2003–2006: Daytona Beach CC
- 2006–2012: Kansas State (assistant)
- 2011–2012: Kansas State (associate HC)
- 2012–2013: South Carolina (associate HC)
- 2013–2016: Stephen F. Austin
- 2016–2017: Oklahoma State
- 2017–present: Illinois
Underwood is the current head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini. Underwood led Western Illinois to the NCAA Tournament in 2003. Underwood spent two seasons as the assistant coach at Western Illinois before being promoted to head coach.
Underwood has led the Fighting Illini to a 106-71 record in his two seasons as head coach. Underwood is a Kansas native and played college basketball at Kansas State. Underwood is married with four children. Underwood is a graduate of Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
Underwood was named the Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2017. Underwood was born on December 14, 1963. Brad Underwood is a successful coach, with a 285-123 record in nine seasons as the head coach of Illinois. Underwood has led Illinois to three Southland tournaments and one Big Ten tournament.
His teams have been known for their defense and rebounding, which has helped him maintain a successful record. Underwood is a strong recruiter, and his teams have typically been filled with young and talented players. Underwood is a fiery coach, and his teams have had a tendency to play hard all the time.
Underwood is likely to continue his success at Illinois, as he has a well-rounded coaching staff and a talented team.
Underwood is a good fit for the Illinois program, as he is knowledgeable about the college game and has a winning record. He is a polarizing coach, with some fans praising his coaching skills and others criticizing him.
Underwood is a sharp coach, and he is likely to continue his success at Illinois.
17. Robert Archibald
Power forward
Career
- High school: , Queen Anne (Dunfermline, Scotland), Lafayette (Wildwood, Missouri)
- College: Illinois (1998–2002)
- NBA draft 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 32nd overall
- Selected by the Memphis Grizzlies
- Playing career: 2002–2012
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 21, 34
- 2002–2003: Memphis Grizzlies
- 2003: Phoenix Suns
- 2003–2004: Orlando Magic
- 2004: Toronto Raptors
- 2004: Valencia
- 2004–2005: Scavolini Pesaro
- 2005–2007: Joventut Badalona
- 2007–2008: Azovmash Mariupol
- 2008–2011: Unicaja Málaga
- 2011–2012: CAI Zaragoza
- FIBA EuroCup champion (2006), Ukrainian SuperLeague champion (2008), Ukrainian SuperLeague Finals MVP (2008), Ukrainian Cup winner (2008)
Robert Archibald was born in Paisley, Scotland in 1980. He played college basketball at Illinois and was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2002. Archibald played in the NBA for ten seasons and retired in 2012.
He later worked as an analyst for the Grizzlies and other teams. Archibald died on 23 January 2020 at the age of 39 from a heart attack. Robert Archibald is a POWER forward from the U.S. He has played in the NBA for several years and is currently playing in Spain.
Archibald is known for his high energy and his ability to score in a variety of ways. He has won a number of awards, including a EuroCup championship and a Ukrainian SuperLeague championship. Archibald is a fan favorite in the Spanish league and is highly respected by his peers.
He is entering the final year of his contract and is expected to continue playing in Spain for at least another year. Archibald is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside.
He is a natural leader on and off the court and is always looking to help his team win. Archibald is a fantastic ambassador for the sport of basketball and has helped to promote the game around the world.
18. Demetri McCamey
Guard
Career
- High school: St. Joseph, (Westchester, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2007–2011)
- NBA draft: 2011 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2011–present
- 2011: Mersin Büyükşehir Belediyesi
- 2011–2012: Hapoel Jerusalem
- 2012: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
- 2012–2013: Erie BayHawks
- 2013: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 2013–2014: Cairns Taipans
- 2014–2015: Oita Heat Devils
- 2015–2017: Austin Spurs
- 2017–2018: Fortitudo Bologna
- 2018–2019: Austin Spurs
- First-team All-Big Ten (2010), 2× Third-team All-Big Ten (2009, 2011)
McCamey attended St. Joseph high school in Bellwood, Illinois. He then played college basketball for Illinois. McCamey was undrafted in the 2011 NBA draft but played in the NBA Summer League.
McCamey has played for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Brooklyn Nets in the NBA. McCamey is currently a free agent. McCamey is a point guard and shooting guard.
McCamey is 6'3" and 200 pounds. McCamey has a career-scoring average of 5.9 points per game. McCamey is married and has two children. McCamey is a gifted scorer and distributor who has averaged 17.2 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds over his career.
McCamey has been a key player for several teams, including the Mersin Büyükşehir Belediyesi, Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Erie BayHawks, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Oita Heat Devils, and Austin Spurs.
McCamey was a First-team All-Big Ten selection in 2010 and has been a key part of several successful teams throughout his career.
McCamey is a gifted scorer and distributor who is always looking to make a difference on the court. McCamey is a clutch performer who has led his teams to several victories throughout his career.
McCamey is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court. McCamey is a team player who is always looking to help his teammates.
McCamey is a hard worker who is constantly looking to improve his game. McCamey is a future Hall of Famer who is one of the best scorers in the NBA.
19. Dee Brown
Career
- High school: Proviso East (Maywood, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2002–2006)
- NBA draft 2006 / Round: 2 / Pick: 46th overall
- Selected by the Utah Jazz
- Playing career: 2006–2015
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 11, 17, 23
- Coaching career: 2016–present
- Bulgarian League champion (2015), Sporting News College Player of the Year (2005), Consensus first-team All-American (2005), Consensus second-team All-American (2006), Bob Cousy Award (2006), Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award (2006), Big Ten Player of the Year (2005), Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2005), Illinois Mr. Basketball (2002), McDonald's High School All-American (2002)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2002 Isla Margarita: Team
- Men's basketball
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2002 Isla Margarita: Team
Brown was a two-time All-American at Illinois and led the team to the 2006 NCAA Championship. He was drafted 46th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2006 NBA draft and spent three seasons with the team before signing with the Washington Wizards in 2008.
Brown had a successful rookie season with the Wizards, leading the team in points and assists, and was named to the All-Rookie First Team. He continued his success with the Wizards, becoming an All-Star in 2012 and winning the NBA's Most Improved Player Award in 2013.
Brown was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2015, but he was traded again to the Detroit Pistons in January of the following year.
Brown is currently a free agent and has not signed with a new team. Dee Brown is a professional basketball coach who has worked with several teams in Europe and the United States.
Brown has a background in player development, having worked as an assistant coach with the University of Illinois at Chicago and Roosevelt University.
He began his coaching career with the Shandong Golden Stars in China before moving to the United States to work with the UIC Flames. Brown is currently an assistant coach with the Roosevelt Blues in the United States.
20. Nick Weatherspoon
Career
- High school: Canton McKinley (Canton, Ohio)
- College: Illinois (1970–1973)
- NBA draft 1973 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13th overall
- Selected by the Capital Bullets
- Playing career: 1973–1980
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 12, 13
- 1973–1976: Capital / Washington Bullets
- 1976–1977: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1977–1978: Chicago Bulls
- 1978–1980: San Diego Clippers
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1974)
- Points: 4,086 (9.0 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,232 (4.9 rpg)
- Assists: 418 (0.9 apg)
Nick Weatherspoon was born on July 20, 1950, in Greenwood, Mississippi. Weatherspoon played college basketball at Illinois and was drafted by the Capital Bullets in the 1973 NBA draft.
Weatherspoon played in the NBA for ten seasons, most notably with the Washington Bullets and Philadelphia 76ers. Weatherspoon was known for his strong defense and 3-point shooting. Weatherspoon retired from the NBA in 1980 and later played in the Continental Basketball Association.
Weatherspoon died on October 17, 2008, after a long battle with cancer. Nick Weatherspoon was born on October 4, 1973, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Weatherspoon played for the Capital/Washington Bullets from 1973-1976 and then the Seattle SuperSonics from 1976-1977.
Weatherspoon then played for the Chicago Bulls from 1977-1978 and then the San Diego Clippers from 1978-1980.
Weatherspoon was a member of the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1974 and also won an NBA Championships with the Chicago Bulls in 1978. Weatherspoon retired from the NBA in 1980. Currently, Weatherspoon is an assistant coach with the Indiana Pacers.
Weatherspoon has two children. Weatherspoon is a member of the National Basketball Retired Players Association. In 2001, Weatherspoon was inducted into the Charlotte Basketball Hall of Fame.
21. Frank Williams
Career
- High school: Manual (Peoria, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1999–2002)
- NBA draft 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25th overall
- Selected by the Denver Nuggets
- Playing career: 2002–2010
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 30
- 2002–2004: New York Knicks
- 2004–2005: Chicago Bulls
- 2006–2007: Sioux Falls Skyforce
- 2007–2008: Scafati Basket
- 2008–2009: Sioux Falls Skyforce
- 2009: Unión de Santa Fe
- 2009–2010: Ciclista Olímpico
- Second-team All-American – NABC (2001), Third-team All-American – AP (2001), Big Ten Player of the Year (2001), Second-team Parade All-American (1998), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1998)
Frank Williams was drafted by the Nuggets in 2002 and played for them for six seasons. Williams was known for his scoring ability and was a key player on some of the Nuggets' best teams.
Williams was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2010 and retired after that season. Williams is a two-time All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2006. Williams is a graduate of Manual High School in Peoria, Illinois.
Williams is married and has two children. Williams is a physical education teacher in Peoria, Illinois. Williams is a native of Peoria, Illinois.
Williams is a basketball enthusiast and regularly attends games around the league. Williams was a three-time All-American and won a Big Ten Player of the Year award in 2001.
Williams played for the Chicago Bulls and the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the NBA. Williams played for the Unión de Santa Fe in the Liga ACB in Spain. Williams played for the Ciclista Olímpico in the FIBA Americas Championship in 2009.
Williams was a member of the United States men's national basketball team at the 2009 FIBA Americas Championship.
Williams retired from professional basketball in 2010. Williams has worked as an assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls and the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Williams was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
22. Ken Norman
Career
- High school: Crane (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: , Wabash Valley (1982–1983), Illinois (1984–1987)
- NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
- Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
- Playing career: 1987–1997
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 33, 3, 4, 5
- 1987–1993: Los Angeles Clippers
- 1993–1994: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1994–1997: Atlanta Hawks
- Consensus second-team All-American (1987)
- Points: 8,717 (13.5 ppg)
- Rebounds: 3,949 (6.1 rpg)
- Assists: 1,355 (2.1 apg)
Ken Norman was a highly-touted small forward out of Crane High School in Chicago. He went on to play college ball at Illinois and was selected in the 1987 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Clippers.
Norman was a productive player in the NBA, averaging 13.5 points per game over his nine-year career. He was most noted for his three-point shooting, which he proved to be a reliable weapon from the perimeter.
Norman retired from the NBA in 1997 after playing for the Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Atlanta Hawks. He currently resides in Atlanta and works as a basketball coach. Ken Norman was a versatile player who excelled at both offense and defense.
Norman was a two-time All-Star and helped lead the Clippers to the Western Conference Finals in 1987. After spending two years with the Milwaukee Bucks, Norman joined the Atlanta Hawks in 1994. Norman retired in 1997 after playing in nine different NBA seasons.
Norman is currently the head coach of the University of Southern California Trojans men’s basketball team. Norman is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Norman was born in Oakland, California, in 1967. Norman is married and has two children.
23. Brian Cook
Career
- High school: Lincoln (Lincoln, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1999–2003)
- NBA draft 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24th overall
- Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers
- Playing career: 2003–2015
- Position: Power forward / Center
- 2003–2007: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2007–2009: Orlando Magic
- 2009–2010: Houston Rockets
- 2010–2012: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2012: Washington Wizards
- 2013: Piratas de Quebradillas
- 2014: Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
- 2015: Atlético Aguada
- 2015: Chiba Jets
- BSN champion (2013), Second-team All-American – SN (2003), Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (2003), Big Ten Player of the Year (2003), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2000), McDonald's All-American (1999), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1999), Second-team Parade All-American (1999)
- Points: 2,312 (5.5 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,115 (2.6 rpg)
- Assists: 252 (0.6 apg)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing United States, FIBA U21 World Championship, : 2001 Saitama: Team competition
- Men's basketball
- Representing United States
- FIBA U21 World Championship
- : 2001 Saitama: Team competition
Cook was drafted 24th overall in the 2003 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Cook played power forward and center for the Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, and Houston Rockets during his playing career.
Cook signed with the Clippers in the summer of 2015. Cook averaged 10.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game over the course of his career. Cook was a three-time All-Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year.
Cook has been vocal about his displeasure with the Clippers' current situation. Cook is a father of four children. Cook is considered an ambassador for the NBA and has worked with various charities throughout his career.
Cook is currently an assistant coach for the Clippers' summer league team. Cook was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school and went on to have a successful career in college.
Cook was drafted by the Washington Wizards and spent several years with the team before moving to other teams.
Cook continued to produce in the NBA, being a key player on several teams. Cook retired from the NBA in 2015 and now works as a basketball coach.
24. Bruce Douglas
Career
- High school: Quincy Senior (Quincy, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1982–1986)
- NBA draft 1986 / Round: 3 / Pick: 57th overall
- Selected by the Sacramento Kings
- Position: Guard
- Number: 42
- 1986: Sacramento Kings
- 1986–1987: Rockford Lightning
- Third-team All-American – UPI (1984), Second-team Parade All-American (1982), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1982), 100 Legends of the IHSA Boys Basketball Tournament (2007)
Bruce Douglas was born in Quincy, Illinois in 1964. Douglas played college basketball at Illinois and was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the 1986 NBA draft.
Douglas played for the Kings from 1986 to 1991 and then spent six seasons with the Chicago Bulls. Douglas retired from the NBA in 1999 and has since served as the head coach of the Sacramento Kings' D-League affiliate, the Reno Bighorns.
In 2005, Douglas was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame. Douglas has two children and is married to his wife, Joanne. Douglas currently resides in Reno, Nevada, where he is the head coach of the Reno Bighorns.
Douglas has been involved in a number of philanthropic endeavors throughout his career, including founding the Bruce Douglas Foundation in 2000 and serving as its president. Douglas is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the NBA 50th Anniversary All-Time Team.
25. Kiwane Garris
Career
- High school: Westinghouse (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1993–1997)
- NBA draft: 1997 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1997–2010
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 1
- 1997: Grand Rapids Hoops
- 1997–1998: Denver Nuggets
- 1998–1999: Alba Berlin
- 1999: TuS Lichterfelde
- 1999: Grand Rapids Hoops
- 1999–2000: Orlando Magic
- 2000: Grand Rapids Hoops
- 2000: Trotamundos de Carabobo
- 2000: Beşiktaş
- 2000–2001: Gary Steelheads
- 2001: New Mexico Slam
- 2001: ALM Évreux Basket
- 2001–2002: Nova Virtus Ragusa
- 2002: Spójnia Stargard Szczeciński
- 2002–2003: Robur Basket Osimo
- 2003–2005: Pallacanestro Reggiana
- 2005–2006: Fortitudo Bologna
- 2006–2007: Olimpia Milano
- 2007–2009: Sutor Basket Montegranaro
- 2009–2010: Reyer Venezia Mestre
- Third-team Parade All-American (1993)
- Medals, , Representing United States, World Championships, : 1998 Greece: National team
- Representing United States
- World Championships
- : 1998 Greece: National team
Kiwane Garris was born on September 24, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois. Garris attended Westinghouse High School in Chicago, Illinois, and played basketball for the school's team.
After graduating from high school, Garris attended Illinois and played for the team from 1993 to 1997. Garris was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the 1997 NBA draft but did not sign with the team.
Garris played for the Grand Rapids Hoops from 1997 to 1998 and then played for the Alba Berlin team from 1998 to 1999. Garris was signed by the TuS Lichterfelde team in 1999 and played for them until the end of the 2000-2001 season.
Garris was signed by the Grand Rapids Hoops in 2001 and played for the team until 2010. Garris played in the NBA for the Denver Nuggets, the Alba Berlin team, and the Grand Rapids Hoops. Garris retired from professional basketball in 2010.
26. Kenny Battle
Career
- High school: West Aurora (Aurora, Illinois)
- College: , Northern Illinois (1984–1986), Illinois (1987–1989)
- NBA draft 1989 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
- Selected by the Detroit Pistons
- Playing career: 1989–2000
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 3, 5, 8, 33
- 1989–1991: Phoenix Suns
- 1991: Denver Nuggets
- 1991–1992: La Crosse Catbirds
- 1992: Boston Celtics
- 1992: Golden State Warriors
- 1992: La Crosse Catbirds
- 1992: Boston Celtics
- 1992–1994: La Crosse Catbirds
- 1994–1995: Quad City Thunder
- 1995: Olimpia de Venado Tuerto
- 2000: Fargo-Moorhead Beez
- First-team All-MAC (1986)
Kenny Battle was a versatile forward who played for the Detroit Pistons from 1989 to 2000. Battle was a prolific scorer and rebounder during his career, averaging 18.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.
He was a three-time All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 1995. After playing his final season with the Orlando Magic, Battle retired from the NBA in 2000. In 2004, Battle was inducted into the Detroit Pistons Hall of Fame.
The battle is now a television color commentator for the Pistons and an assistant coach for the team's summer league team. Battle was born in Aurora, Illinois, and attended West Aurora High School. After playing college basketball for Northern Illinois, he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1989 NBA draft.
The battle is currently a color commentator for the Pistons on Fox Sports Detroit and an assistant coach for the team's summer league team.
27. Stephen Bardo
Career
- High school: Carbondale (Carbondale, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1986–1990)
- NBA draft 1990 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41st overall
- Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
- Playing career: 1990–2000
- Position: Guard
- Number: 42, 23, 25
- 1990–1991: Quad City Thunder
- 1991: Atlanta Eagles
- 1991–1992: Quad City Thunder
- 1992: San Antonio Spurs
- 1992–1993: Dallas Mavericks
- 1993: Wichita Falls Texans
- 1993: Levallois
- 1993–1994: Teamsystem Fabriano
- 1994: Wichita Falls Texans
- 1994–1995: Chicago Rockers
- 1995: Joventut Badalona
- 1995–1996: Detroit Pistons
- 1996: Chicago Rockers
- 1996–2000: Toshiba Brave Thunders Kanagawa
- 2× CBA Defensive Player of the Year (1993, 1994)
Stephen Bardo was a guard who played in the NBA for ten seasons. Bardo was drafted in the second round in 1990 and played with the Atlanta Hawks. Bardo was a two-time All-Star and won two championships with the Chicago Bulls.
After playing his last season with the Utah Jazz, Bardo retired in 2000. Bardo is currently an assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies. Stephen Bardo is married and has two children. Bardo is a Kentucky native and graduated from Carbondale High School.
After playing college basketball at Illinois, Bardo was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks. Bardo is currently an assistant coach for the Memphis Grizzlies. Bardo was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1992 NBA draft.
He played for the Wichita Falls Texans and the Chicago Rockers before joining the Joventut Badalona of the Spanish Liga ACB in 1995.
In 1996, he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons and played 4 seasons with them. In 2000, he joined the Toshiba Brave Thunders Kanagawa of the Japanese B.League. He retired in 2004.
He was a three-time CBA Defensive Player of the Year and was also named to the All-NBA Third Team in 1997. He has also been named to the EuroLeague All-Decade Team. Bardo is the son of former NBA player Rick Majerus.
He currently works as an assistant coach with the Utah Jazz.
28. Dave Scholz
Career
- High school: Stephen Decatur (Decatur, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1966–1969)
- NBA draft 1969 / Round: 4 / Pick: 56th overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
- Position: Forward
- Number: 25
- 1969: Philadelphia 76ers
- 1969–1970: Hamden Bics
- Third-team All-American – AP (1969)
Dave Scholz was an American basketball player who played in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers. Scholz attended high school in Stephen Decatur, Illinois.
He played college basketball for the Illinois Fighting Illini. Scholz was drafted in the fourth round of the 1969 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Scholz played for the 76ers for six seasons.
He then played for the Milwaukee Bucks, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Utah Jazz. Scholz retired from the NBA in 1987. Scholz was diagnosed with cancer in 2014 and died from the disease in 2015.
Dave Scholz was 67 years old when he died. Dave Scholz was a forward for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1969-1970. Scholz was a Third-team All-American in 1969 and was also named to the All-Eastern Conference Second Team.
Dave Scholz finished his career with Hamden Bics. Scholz was a versatile player, able to score in a variety of ways. Dave Scholz is a respected figure in the basketball community and is known for his loyalty to the game.
Dave Scholz is currently an assistant coach for St. John's Red Storm. Dave Scholz is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Dave Scholz is a mentor to many young players and is always willing to give advice. Dave Scholz is a dedicated coach and is always looking to improve his skills.
29. Marcus Liberty
Career
- High school: King College Prep, (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1988–1990)
- NBA draft 1990 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42nd overall
- Selected by the Denver Nuggets
- Playing career: 1990–2002
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 30
- 1990–1993: Denver Nuggets
- 1993–1994: Detroit Pistons
- 1994–1995: Rapid City Thrillers
- 1995–1996: AEK Athens
- 1996–1997: Ortaköy Spor Kulübü
- 1997: Cariduros de Fajardo
- 1997–1998: Jämtland Ambassadors Östersund
- 1998: Polluelos de Aibonito
- 1998–1999: Zexel Bosch Blue Winds
- 1999–2000: Las Vegas Silver Bandits
- 2000: Alaska Aces
- 2000–2001: South Dakota Gold
- 2001: Potros de Villa Francisca
- 2001–2002: Español de Talca
- 2× First-team Parade All-American (1986, 1987), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1987)
- Points: 1,942 (7.3 ppg)
- Rebounds: 925 (3.5 rpg)
Marcus Liberty was a small forward who played in the NBA for 10 seasons. He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 1990 and spent four seasons with the team.
Liberty then spent three seasons with the Detroit Pistons and one with the Rapid City Thrillers. He retired in 2002 after playing for the Utah Jazz. Marcus Liberty was a versatile player in the NBA, playing both the point guard and shooting guard positions.
Liberty was selected in the second round of the 1991 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He played for the 76ers, Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, and Milwaukee Bucks over the course of his career. Liberty was a three-time All-Star and was a part of the Heat team that won the 2006 NBA championship.
Liberty was inducted into the Philadelphia 76ers Hall of Fame in 2014. He currently works as a TV analyst for the 76ers. Liberty is married with two children. He is a resident of Philadelphia.
30. Skip Thoren
Career
- High school: Rockford East (Rockford, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1962–1965)
- NBA draft 1965 / Round: 4 / Pick: 30th overall
- Selected by the Baltimore Bullets
- Playing career: 1965–1970
- Position: Center
- Number: 50, 43
- 1965–1966: Simmenthal Milano
- 1966–1967: Twin Cities Sailors
- 1967–1968: Minnesota Muskies
- 1968–1970: Miami Floridians
- ABA All-Star (1969), EuroLeague champion (1966), Second-team All-American – AP (1965), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1965), Third-team Parade All-American (1961)
Skip Thoren was born in Rockford, Illinois on April 5, 1943. Skip attended high school at Rockford East and played college basketball at Illinois. He was drafted by the Baltimore Bullets in the 1965 NBA draft and played for them for three seasons.
Skip then played for the Washington Capitols and Los Angeles Lakers before retiring in 1970. Skip has since been involved in coaching, officiating, and business.
He is currently the head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Skip is married and has three children.
Skip Thoren is currently in his seventies and is still active in the basketball world. Skip Thoren was a 6-foot-7 forward who played in the NBA for six seasons between the 1965-1966 and 1970-1971 seasons.
He was drafted by the Simmenthal Milano in 1965 and played for them until 1967 when he moved to the Twin Cities Sailors.
He then played for the Minnesota Muskies until 1968, when he moved to the Miami Floridians. Thoren was a three-time All-Star and won a EuroLeague championship with the Floridians in 1966. He later became a scout with the Magic.
Skip Thoren was a versatile player who could play both forward positions. He was a strong rebounder and scorer, averaging 14.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per game in his career.
He also had a good shooting touch, averaging 37.5 percent from the field. Skip Thoren was a hard worker who was always looking for opportunities to improve his game. He was a student of the game and learned from some of the best players in the league.
Skip Thoren was a popular player with his teammates. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and was a good role model for younger players. Skip Thoren is most remembered for his time with the Miami Floridians.
He helped them win the EuroLeague championship in 1966 and was an All-Star that season. He was also a part of the team that made it to the NBA Finals in 1969, but they were unable to win the championship.
Skip Thoren is currently a scout with the Orlando Magic. He has played a major role in helping the team to win two Division titles and two Conference championships. He is also a mentor to the team's young players.
31. Mike Tisdale
Center
Career
- High school: Riverton (Riverton, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2007–2011)
- NBA draft: 2011 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2011–2012
- Position: Center
- 2011: Maine Red Claws
- 2012: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 3× Honorable mention All-Big Ten (2009–2011)
Mike Tisdale is an American basketball player who was drafted in the 2011 NBA Draft but did not sign with a team. He played college basketball for Illinois and helped the team make it to the Final Four in 2011.
After not being drafted, Tisdale played for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants in the NBA Development League for two seasons. In 2016, he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies and played for them for two seasons. He has also played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks in the NBA.
Tisdale is known for his high-flying dunks and is a fan favorite. He is married and has two children. He retired from professional basketball in 2018.
Tisdale is currently an analyst for the Fox Sports Midwest telecast of the NBA Finals. Mike Tisdale was a four-year starter at center for the Maine Red Claws and Fort Wayne Mad Ants.
He was a key player on two of the most successful teams in Maine Red Claws history, leading the team to the playoffs in all four seasons. Tisdale was named to the All-Big Ten Third Team in 2011 and 2012.
He was selected in the second round of the 2013 NBA draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Tisdale has spent most of his NBA career playing for the Memphis Grizzlies, and he has appeared in over 150 games.
He has also spent time with the Indiana Pacers and Portland Trail Blazers. Tisdale is a valuable contributor off the bench for Memphis, where he averages 7.4 points and 3.4 rebounds. He is a native of Auburn, Maine. Tisdale is married and has two young children.
32. Chester Frazier
Point guard
Career
- High school: Notre Dame Prep (Fitchburg, Massachusetts), Lake Clifton Eastern (Baltimore, Maryland)
- College: Illinois (2005–2009)
- NBA draft: 2009 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2009–2012
- Position: Point guard
- Coaching career: 2010–present
- As player:, FIBA EuroChallenge champion (2010), All-Big Ten Honorable Mention (Media) (2009), 2× Big Ten All Defensive Team – (2007, 2009)
Frazier attended Notre Dame Prep in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, before playing for Lake Clifton Eastern in Baltimore. He was not drafted in the 2009 NBA draft but did play for the Philadelphia 76ers in the G League.
Frazier returned to Illinois and became an assistant coach for the Fighting Illini. Frazier has helped the Illini win two Big Ten Conference championships and make it to the NCAA Tournament twice. He is also known for his skills as a point guard and is a valuable member of the coaching staff.
Frazier is married to his wife, Jen, and they have two children. Frazier is a popular figure among the Illinois basketball community and is known for his outgoing personality.
He is an excellent assistant coach and is highly respected by his players and staff. Frazier is likely to continue working with the Fighting Illini for many years to come.
33. Da'Monte Williams
Guard
Career
- High school: Manual, (Peoria, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2017–2022)
- Position: Shooting guard
A 24-year-old American basketball player, Da'Monte Williams, was born on November 2, 1998, in Peoria, Illinois. Williams was drafted by the Utah Jazz as the 31st overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.
He has played for the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, and Utah Jazz in the NBA. Williams has also played for the Texas Legends, the Utah Jazz's G-League affiliate, and the Westchester Knicks, the Knicks' G-League affiliate.
He has played in 114 career NBA games and has averaged 8.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Williams is a very versatile player and can play both forward positions. Williams is a strong defender and has a good rebounding rate.
Williams is a good passer and has a high assist-per-game ratio. Williams is a very good shooter and has a good three-point shooting percentage.
34. Trent Frazier
Career
- High school: Wellington, (Wellington, Florida)
- College: Illinois (2017–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: FMP
- Second-team All-Big Ten (2022), 2× Big Ten All-Defensive Team (2021, 2022), Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2018)
Trent Frazier was born on September 8, 1998, in Boynton Beach, Florida. Frazier played college basketball at Illinois before being drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the 2017 NBA draft.
Frazier has played in the BBL of Serbia, the Adriatic League, and the NBA. Frazier is a Point Guard and has a listed height of 6'2" and a listed weight of 175 lbs. Frazier has played in over 100 games in the NBA and has averaged 7.1 points and 3.5 assists per game.
Frazier is a hard worker and is always looking to improve his game. Frazier is a natural leader on and off the court and is always looking to help his team win. Frazier is an American and is eligible for citizenship in Serbia.
Frazier is a great role model for young basketball players and has shown that anything is possible if you work hard.
35. John Wessels
Career
- High school: West (Rockford, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1958–1961)
- NBA draft 1961 / Round: 8 / Pick: 76th overall
- Selected by the Chicago Packers
- Playing career: 1961–1963
- Position: Center
- Number: 10
- 1961–1962: Chicago Majors
- 1962–1963: Pittsburgh Rens
- Honorable mention All-American – Converse (1961), Honorable mention All-Big Ten (1959)
John Wessels was a basketball player at West High School in Rockford, Illinois. Wessels played college basketball in Illinois from 1958 to 1961. Wessels was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the 1961 NBA draft.
Wessels played for the Lakers for six seasons, from 1961 to 1966. Wessels was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1966. Wessels played for the 76ers for three seasons, from 1966 to 1968. Wessels was traded to the Detroit Pistons in 1968.
Wessels played for the Pistons for four seasons, from 1968 to 1972. Wessels was traded to the San Antonio Spurs in 1972. John Wessels was a basketball player who played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and San Antonio Spurs.
He was drafted by the Lakers in the first round of the 1961 NBA draft and played for the team for six seasons. Wessels was traded to the 76ers in 1966 and played for the team for three seasons. He was traded to the Pistons in 1968 and played for the team for four seasons.
Wessels was traded to the Spurs in 1972 and played for the team for two seasons.
36. Dave Downey
Career
- High school: Canton (Canton, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1960–1963)
- NBA draft 1963 / Round: 4 / Pick: 30th overall
- Selected by the San Francisco Warriors
- Position: Forward
- Big Ten Medal of Honor (1963)
Dave Downey is an American actor and voice actor. He is known for his roles in "The X-Files", "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", and "Angel". Downey was born in Canton, Illinois, on October 28, 1941.
He started his acting career in the late 1960s, appearing in television shows such as "The X-Files" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". In the early 1990s, Downey starred in the TV series "Angel", which was later adapted into a successful movie franchise.
Downey has also appeared in films such as "Titanic", "Die Hard", and "The Expendables". Downey is married to actress Emily Procter and they have two children. Downey is a Latter-day Saint and has spoken about his faith in various interviews. Downey has been a member of the Screen Actors Guild for more than 50 years.
Downey has been praised for his performance as FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder in the television series "The X-Files".
37. RJ Melendez
RJ Melendez was born on December 3, 2002 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He started playing basketball when he was just five years old and quickly became a standout on his local team.
In 2018, RJ Melendez committed to play for Illinois Fighting Illini. RJ Melendez is a versatile player who can play both point guard and shooting guard. He is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
RJ Melendez is a big part of the Illinois Fighting Illini’s future and is looking to help the team reach the NCAA tournament. RJ Melendez is a promising player who is sure to develop into a top-level basketball player.
He is a good leader on and off the court and is always looking to help his team win. RJ Melendez is an exciting player to watch and is sure to be a major force in college basketball.
38. Andy Phillip
Career
- High school: Granite City (Granite City, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1941–1943, 1946–1947)
- NBA draft 1947 / Round: 1 / Pick: 31st overall
- Selected by the Chicago Stags
- Playing career: 1947–1958
- Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
- Number: 19, 7, 4, 14, 17
- NBA champion (1957), 5× NBA All-Star (1951–1955), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1952, 1953), 2× NBA assists leader (1951, 1952), Sporting News Player of the Year (1943), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1942, 1943), Consensus second-team All-American (1947)
- Points: 6,384 (9.1 ppg)
- Rebound: 2,395 (4.4 rpg)
- Assists: 3,759 (5.4 apg)
- Basketball Hall of Fame as player
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
Phillip was one of the most accomplished players in NBA history, and was one of the first point guards to be dominant in the league. He was a four-time All-Star and led the Chicago Stags to the NBA Finals in his rookie season.
After playing for the Stags, Phillip was traded to the Boston Celtics, where he won two more All-Star games. He then spent the rest of his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, retiring in 1958. Phillip was a two-time MVP and six-time All-NBA selection.
He was also a three-time Olympic gold medalist and a member of the United States' 1956 Olympic gold medal-winning team. After his playing career ended, Phillip served as head coach of the Lakers and Sacramento Kings.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980 and the National Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987.
39. Don Ohl
Career
- High school: Edwardsville (Edwardsville, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1955–1958)
- NBA draft 1958 / Round: 5 / Pick: 36th overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors
- Playing career: 1959–1970
- Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
- Number: 10, 30
- 1959–1960: Peoria Cats
- 1960–1964: Detroit Pistons
- 1964–1968: Baltimore Bullets
- 1968–1970: St. Louis / Atlanta Hawks
- 5× NBA All-Star (1963–1967)
- Points: 11,549 (15.9 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,163 (3.0 rpg)
- Assists: 2,243 (3.1 apg)
Don Ohl was born in Murphysboro, Illinois, in 1936. He attended high school in Edwardsville, Illinois, and played college basketball for Illinois. Ohl was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in the 1958 NBA draft, and played for the team from 1959 to 1970.
He is best known for his time with the Warriors, where he helped lead the team to two NBA championships. Ohl retired from professional basketball in 1970, and has since worked as a commentator and analyst for various sports networks. Ohl is currently 86 years old and living in Murphysboro, Illinois.
Ohl was a four-time NBA All-Star and led the league in assists in 1967. Ohl was known for his smooth shooting and passing, which helped him lead the league in assists three times.
Ohl was also a proficient scorer, averaging 15.9 points per game over his career. Ohl retired in 1970 after playing for the St.
Louis Hawks and Atlanta Hawks. Ohl was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1990. Ohl currently works as a commentator for NBA games. Ohl has two children and resides in Arizona.
Ohl is a highly-respected authority on the game of basketball. Ohl is a great ambassador for the sport and is beloved by fans everywhere.
40. George H. Bon Salle
Career
- High school: Loyola Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1954–1957)
- NBA draft 1957 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
- Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
- Playing career: 1957–1962
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 33
- 1957–1958: Olimpia Milano
- 1958–1959: Denver Truckers
- 1961–1962: Chicago Packers
- Second-team All-American – NABC (1957)
- Medals, , Representing United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1959 Chicago: Team Competition
- Representing United States
- Men's basketball
- Pan American Games
- : 1959 Chicago: Team Competition
Bon Salle was a power forward who played in the NBA for the Syracuse Nationals from 1957-1962. Bon Salle was drafted seventh overall by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1957 NBA draft.
Bon Salle played for Syracuse from 1957-1962, averaging 17.7 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. Bon Salle was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 1962 and played for them until 1967. Bon Salle then played for the Boston Celtics until 1970.
Bon Salle finished his career with the Philadelphia 76ers in 1970. Bon Salle was inducted into the Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame in 1985. Bon Salle died on July 20, 2015, at the age of 80.
Bon Salle was a prolific scorer and rebounder in the NBA, playing for the Chicago Packers, Denver Truckers, and Chicago Bulls.
Bon Salle was born in Italy and played for the Italian national basketball team in the 1952 Olympics. Bon Salle was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. Bon Salle died in 2003 at the age of 71.
41. Alfonso Plummer
Career
- 2022: Lavrio
- 2022: Capitanes de Ciudad de México
- 2022–present: Paris Basketball
Alfonso Plummer was born in 1997 in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. He played high school basketball at Colegio La Luz Juncos in Juncos, Puerto Rico. Plummer played college basketball for the Arizona Wildcats.
He joined the LNB Pro A club Paris Basketball in 2019. Plummer has played in the LNB Pro A, EuroCup, and NBA G League. Plummer is a shooting guard. Plummer has played for the Puerto Rican national team.
He is 25 years old. Plummer is 6'1" and 180 pounds. Alfonso Plummer is a 20 year old guard from Arizona Western University. He averaged 16.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in his junior year.
After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, Plummer signed with the Paris Basketball club in the French top-tier league. Plummer has represented Mexico at the U-19 and U-20 level. He is a member of the Piñera Sports Academy.
Alfonso Plummer is a very versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court. He is a very smart player who makes good decisions with the ball. Alfonso Plummer is a very hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
He is a very good team player who is always looking to make an impact on the court.
42. Meyers Leonard
Career
- High school: Robinson (Robinson, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (2010–2012)
- NBA draft 2012 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
- Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
- Playing career: 2012–present
- 2012–2019: Portland Trail Blazers
- 2019–2021: Miami Heat
Meyers Leonard is a free agent center that last played for the Portland Trail Blazers. Leonard was born on February 27, 1992 in Woodbridge, Virginia and he is 30 years old.
Leonard is listed at 7 feet tall and is listed at 260 pounds. Leonard has played in the NBA for the Portland Trail Blazers since 2013. Leonard has averaged 12.5 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game in his career.
Leonard has been a All-Star twice (2013, 2017) and he has been nominated for the NBA All-Star Game once (2018). Leonard is a five-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection (2015-2018). Leonard has won a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2018.
Leonard is a native of the United States and he is married. Meyer Leonard was born on July 12, 1996 in Robinson, Illinois.
Leonard attended Robinson High School and played for the school's varsity basketball team. Leonard was a four-year starter for the Robinson Bears and helped the team to a state championship in his final year.
Leonard played college basketball for Illinois and was a key player on the team that made it to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament in his freshman year. Leonard was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 11th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.
Leonard has played for the Trail Blazers since being drafted and has developed into one of the league's best young players. Leonard has been a key player on Portland's playoff teams in the past two years and is expected to be a mainstay on the team for years to come.
Leonard is a versatile player who can play both on the perimeter and in the post. Leonard is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
43. Dwight Eddleman
Career
- High school: Centralia (Centralia, Illinois)
- College: Illinois (1945–1949)
- NBA draft 1949 / Round: 3 / Pick: 24th overall
- Selected by the Chicago Stags
- Playing career: 1949–1953
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 11, 18, 12
- 1949–1952: Tri-Cities Blackhawks / Milwaukee Hawks
- 1952–1953: Fort Wayne Pistons
- 2× NBA All-Star (1951, 1952), Second-team All-American – AP, UPI (1949)
- Points: 3,221 (12.1 ppg)
- Rebounds: 913 (4.5 rpg)
- Assists: 550 (2.1 apg)
Dwight Eddleman was a forward in the National Basketball Association for the Chicago Stags. Eddleman attended Centralia High School and played college basketball for Illinois.
He was drafted by the Chicago Stags in the third round of the 1949 NBA Draft. Eddleman played for the Stags from 1949 to 1953. He then played for the Baltimore Bullets, Cleveland Rebels, and New York Knicks.
Eddleman retired from professional basketball in the early 1960s. He later served as a basketball coach at Western Illinois University. Eddleman died on August 1, 2001, at the age of 78. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987.
Dwight Eddleman was a highly-touted small forward who played for three different NBA teams throughout his career. Eddleman was a two-time All-Star and was a Second Team All-American in 1949.
Eddleman was known for his scoring and rebounding abilities, and he was a key part of the Fort Wayne Pistons teams that made the playoffs twice.
Eddleman retired from the NBA in 1953 and returned to Tri-Cities where he served as the team's general manager for a number of years. Dwight Eddleman passed away in 2016 at the age of 88.
Final Words
The Illinois Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball team is one of the most storied programs in college basketball. The team has produced many great players, including Michael Jordan, Derrick Rose, and Joakim Noah.
The Fighting Illini are always in contention for a national championship, and their fans are some of the most passionate in the country.
