Illinois Basketball: Preview of Illini depth chart for 2020-21 season
By Jack Bennett
No. 3 Guard
Starter – Ayo Dosunmu (Jr.): 30 minutes
With Dosunmu making the shocking decision to return for his junior season, it is a no-brainer that the All-Big Ten first-teamer will be in the starting lineup for the Illini. While he may not have the size or be guarding the corresponding position in the lineup, Dosunmu is slotted here just like he was for a large majority of last year too.
The returning star looks to build an even more impressive season than the past year where he averaged 15.2 points and 3.3 assists per game, not to mention the countless game-winning shots over big-time opponents.
There is almost no doubt that Dosunmu will be Luka Garza’s main challenger for Big Ten Player of the Year and will most likely be a Wooden award candidate to begin the season. Luckily for Dosunmu, the need for his skills and clutch shots may be relieved a bit off of him this year along with his minutes burden due to the amount of talent surrounding him compared to the previous season. With this being said, Dosunmu will still be the key to the Illini’s success and has a chance to be the best player in college basketball during the 2020-21 season.
Backup – Jacob Grandison (R-Jr.): 20 minutes
Another newcomer to the Illini this season will be Jacob Grandison, a sit-out transfer from Holy Cross. The 6’6 Grandison can play any position 2-4 and his versatility only deepens the strength of this Illinois roster. With arguably the best player in recent Illinois history starting ahead of him, Grandison may see a good portion of his time at the 4 spot while also spelling Dosunmu from time to time.
While at Holy Gross, Grandison averaged just under 14 points and five rebounds per game while scoring in double figures 26 times out of 33 starts throughout his sophomore campaign. With his ability to stretch the floor and play multiple positions, Grandison may become head coach Brad Underwood’s favorite weapon to plug into the puzzle in times of need this season. Look for Grandison to contribute off the bench and give the Illini some solid minutes in relief of the starters.