Former Texas Tech star Terrence Shannon Jr. joins Illini and adds to the program's most athletic collection of wing players in decades.

By Brad Sturdy - IlliniGuys Insider/Analyst

April 29, 2022

On Friday, the Illini nabbed their first target out of the portal - and it was a big fish - when Texas Tech transfer Terrence Shannon Jr. announced that he was coming to Illinois. The 6’7 wing was considered one of the top players in the transfer and fills a massive need as a veteran presence on a talented, but young roster. 

Shannon scored 11.0 PPG and grabbed 3.6 RPG at Texas Tech in his 3 seasons, while also shooting 35% from 3 point range. An elite athlete, Shannon is also an excellent defensive player, ranking in the 80th percentile nationally. The rising senior is great in transition, where his ability to run the floor and elevate makes him an excellent finisher. 

Shannon joins wings RJ Melendez, Ty Rodgers and Coleman Hawkins as the most athletic group of wing players the Illini have seen since perhaps the 1989 Flyin’ Illini. Sources tell us that Shannon, who doesn’t fit the transfer profile due to his advanced standing, was admitted to the University on Tuesday and then made the decision to join the Illini shortly thereafter. 

But the Illini are not done. Illinois would still like to add more size and a veteran backcourt piece this spring through the transfer portal. The current players that have entered the portal include many players that have also declared for the NBA draft so it could be all the way up until June 1 before the roster is finalized. 

Suffice it to say that the Illini are not going to stand pat and want to make a big splash and continue their winning ways.