The Illini have a big man duo for this upcoming season that is, honestly, unmatched in program history. I can sit here today, without seeing one play from Kofi Cockburn in an Illinois uniform, and make an argument that he and Giorgi Bezhanishvili form the most formidable big man duo that has ever suited up for this team.
Giorgi shined as a true freshman for the Illini last season. The kid ended up finishing the year averaging 12.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Some of his best games came against Big Ten opponents too.