By Kedric Prince - IlliniGuys.com Director of Recruiting

March 30th, 2023

(Cover photo courtesy Illinois Athletics)

In a move that was expected, Illinois junior center Brandon Lieb has decided to leave the program and enter the transfer portal.

The 7-foot, 220-pound reserve from Deerfield played in 16 games this season and 31 in his three-year career..

According to sources, Lieb had his mind made up early with his intentions to transfer. He loves his state university but also would like more playing time.  He's expected to graduate this summer with his bachelor degree and will now look to pursue his masters degree at another school.

Coming out of high school, Lieb told me, "It's a dream come true for me to play for Illinois. I grew up rooting for them."  Along with a released statement, Lieb said, "I chose Illinois because, “I felt at home with the coaching staff and players, and Illinois has an excellent business school."

Lieb went to Instagram early this morning with the following statement:

"Thank you, Illinois for everything these past three years. I've made memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful to Coach Underwood and the entire staff for all the valuable lessons I have learned here. Thank you  to my family for always supporting me through this process. With this being said, after careful consideration, I have decided to enter my name into the transfer portal. I am excited to get to work and start these next steps in my career."

Lieb is the second player to transfer from the Illinois program along with point-guard Jayden Epps.

Follow me on Twitter @KedPrince4

email: PrinceKedric@yahoo.com