Illinois basketball coach Brad Underwood landed his first recruit for the Illini when Mark Smith officially signed Wednesday morning. Smith's Wednesday evening announcement at Lucco-Jackson Gym at Edwardsville High School sent Illinois Twitter into a frenzy.
Former Illini weighed in. So did the Mr. Basketball winner's future teammates. And, of course, the Illinois fan base.
Welcome to the Family Mark Smith! You have my blessing to wear #13. Play in it with pride!!!! Illini Til I Die!!! @IlliniAthletics
@Mark_Smith_13 congratulations Mark and welcome to the illini basketball family
— Marcus Liberty (@Givemeliberty30) April 27, 2017
Welcome to the ILLINI Family @Mark Smith /Flight 33 @IlliniMBB
— Kenny Battle (@KennyBattle33) April 26, 2017
Congrats to the best player in Illinois Mr.