The Illinois basketball team now has fewer options after several major transfer portals were completed on Thursday.
I wasn't too shocked that AJ Stoll didn't commit to the Illini. There were also rumors that he was going to Kansas, so this decision wasn't a surprise. I was a little surprised that Dante Maddox Jr. didn't come to Champaign. He ultimately chose Xavier as his landing spot.
However, Illinois still looks strong when it comes to new additions. We added four players from the transfer portal, but there are still solid options out there. It is also possible that the class of 2024 will be added.
Illinois has done a great job in the transfer portal so far, but adding another wing for depth would be a good idea. That's why I like the Illini targeting Coby Blair.
Blair is a 6-foot-6, 205-pound wing from New York. A graduate of Monsignor Scanlan High School in the Bronx, Blair was noticed by many programs. Although he was not rated or ranked, he chose Dayton as his landing spot.
In his four years with the Flyers, Blair improved his game. Last season, he averaged 11.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. He continued in the 2023-24 season, starting four of the 33 games he played in Dayton.
Blair, who has one year left to play, is currently looking for a new career. Blair entered the transfer portal on Tuesday. Jamie Shaw of On3.com We reported that a number of teams have already contacted the talented winger. One of his programs that showed interest was Illinois State.
The great thing about Blair is the fact that he can play multiple positions. I could see him coming in second or third position. He was also a great shooter last season, making 6.1 3-pointers per game for a whopping 49.8%. This kid is going to be a steal and a great addition to Illinois' second rotation.