On Sunday, DC-native Amani Hansberry verbally committed to Brad Underwood and the Fighting Illini. The 6-foot-8 big man who played for Team Durant on the AAU circuit, chose the Illini over a finalist list that included Miami, Virginia Tech, Penn State and Auburn.
So what does this mean for the Illini in 2023 and beyond?
Well, Illinois just got a verbal commitment from a guy who is really good at basketball. This seems like a consistent pattern. No more questionable Power Five prospects are committing to the Illini just to fill roster space. The program is in prime position to be picky, and this selectiveness is paying off in the form of a deep, versatile, talented roster.