Illinois Basketball Stars Shine in Latest 2024 NBA Mock Draft

The Illinois basketball program is on the rise, and it’s not just because of their impressive performance on the court. According to a recent 2024 NBA mock draft, two of their star players are projected to be selected in the upcoming draft.

Illinois Fighting Illini logo

The first of the two Illini players to be selected is Terrence Shannon, Jr., who is projected to go to the New Orleans Pelicans with the 21st overall pick. This would be a great scenario for Shannon, as he would get to play with talented players like Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Brandon Ingram.

“Shannon’s first-round projection can be largely attributed to his dominant March Madness run, averaging 27.8 points per game in the Illini’s seven postseason contests.”

However, Shannon’s future in the NBA could be impacted by the verdict of his upcoming trial in June, where he faces a rape charge. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

NBA draft logo

The second Illini player to be selected is Coleman Hawkins, who is projected to go to the Los Angeles Lakers with the 55th overall pick. This would be an incredible opportunity for Hawkins, as he would get to play with LeBron James and learn from one of the greatest big men in the game, Anthony Davis.

“Hawkins’ game is different from Davis’, as Hawkins is more of a perimeter guy, but learning under a nine-time NBA All-Star big would be to his benefit.”

If these projections come to fruition, Shannon and Hawkins would become the eighth and ninth Illini players to be selected in the NBA Draft in the last 19 years.

Illinois basketball in action