NCAA Basketball is all about the transfers in the offseason. Here are three of the latest that intends to have a big impact on their new programs.
Head coach Brad Underwood got a major coup when big man Adonis De La Rosa picked the Illini to finish his collegiate career. The 7-footer decided to transfer to Illinois after graduating from Kent State in the spring on July 2. He will be immediately eligible to play this season.
De La Rosa had an outstanding 2017-18 campaign, averaging 11.8 points along with 7.6 rebounds. He scored in double figures 23 times, topping the 20 point mark on four occasions while producing seven double-doubles.
De La Rosa will provide the Illini with much-needed help on the interior and leadership. He is a solid scorer, rebounder and rim protector. De La Rosa will be the Illini’s biggest and most seasoned player this upcoming season.
However, there are some concerns surrounding the 260-pound Bronx (NY) native. With the major concern being his health. De La Rosa tore his ACL during the MAC Tournament and had surgery later in March according to College Basketball Talk. So, he may not be completely healthy at the start of the season.
Foul trouble and turnovers are also concerns. De La Rosa fouled out an incredible nine times in 2017-18 and was whistled for an average of 3.6 fouls a game. He also committed 3.3 turnovers a game.
De La Rosa is a well-traveled collegiate player. The three-star recruit originally signed with St. John’s out of Christ the King high school. He redshirted with the Red Storm and then transferred to Williston State College. Following his one junior college season, he transferred to Kent State.
Illinois went 14-18 in Underwood’s first season. The Illini finished 11th in Big Ten play with a 4-14 record. Following the season, three players decided to transfer and leading scorer Leron Black decided to turn pro.
Underwood did bring in a six-player recruiting class for the 2018-19 season. Five-star point guard Ayo Dosunmu is the top recruit.
Add us as a preferred source on Google