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Illinois basketball: 2019-20 season review and 2020-2021 early preview

By Mike Phillips

CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 14: Head coach Brad Underwood talks with Trent Frazier #1 and Ayo Dosunmu #11 of the Illinois Fighting Illini in the game against the Old Dominion Monarchs at State Farm Center on December 14, 2019 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 14: Head coach Brad Underwood talks with Trent Frazier #1 and Ayo Dosunmu #11 of the Illinois Fighting Illini in the game against the Old Dominion Monarchs at State Farm Center on December 14, 2019 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /
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Ayo Dosunmu #11 of the Illinois Fighting Illini (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

An early look at the 2020-2021 Illinois roster

One of the benefits of being a young team is that a majority of the roster will be back next season for Illinois. Only two rotation players, Feliz and forward Kipper Nichols will graduate.

The one thing that Illinois can’t account for yet is whether their two best players will stick around or bolt for the NBA. Dosumnu and Cockburn are intriguing prospects at the pro level, but the uncertainty around the draft given the coronavirus pandemic complicates matters.

It certainly feels as if both players could benefit from another year in school and if they return the Illini will be that much better off. Sharp-shooting guard Alan Griffin could also be in line for more minutes as the Illini look to fill the hole that Feliz’s graduation creates in the rotation.

Brad Underwood has also been busy on the recruiting trail, landing a trio of four-star recruits who could potentially contribute right away. The Illinois backcourt should receive a significant boost as combo guard Adam Miller and point guard Andre Curbello could factor into the offense right away.

The added experience Illinois’ returnees gain, combined with a solid recruiting class, should make the Illini a favorite in the Big Ten next season. If Dosunmu and Cockburn continue to develop into stars Illinois’ chances of making serious noise in the NCAA Tournament will also skyrocket.

Next. Way-too-early Top 25 for 2020-2021. dark

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