CHAMPAIGN — Andres Feliz's maturity was what captured Illinois coach Brad Underwood's attention when he first saw the 6-foot-2 guard in action at a Northwest Florida State practice. Underwood knew he could use another veteran presence in what would be a mostly young Illini backcourt this season.
Feliz showed more than just a steady hand at guard for Illinois when he arrived in Champaign. The native of Guachupita, Dominican Republic would dominate stretches of practice leading into the season. Feliz was relentless — on both ends of the court — as he persistently attacked the basket and locked down whomever he was guarding.