Big Ten Basketball: Updated early power rankings for 2022-23 season

PISCATAWAY, NJ - FEBRUARY 16: Head coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half of a game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Jersey Mike's Arena on February 16, 2022 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Rutgers defeated Illinois 70-59. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

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Big Ten Basketball Texas Tech Red Raiders guard Terrence Shannon Jr. Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Illinois Fighting Illini

The Illini lost of ton of production this offseason, most notably, All-American big man Kofi Cockburn, who averaged around 21 ppg and 11 rpg this past season. Just as big a loss overall was the entire backcourt leaving, with Trent Frazier and Alfonso Plummer moving on, while Andre Curbelo transferred out to St. John’s. And most recently, Jacob Grandison transferred over to Duke as well.

Where the hype comes for Illinois is what they’ve done this offseason. The first move was landing Skyy Clark, a five-star combo guard prospect and former Kentucky commit to lead the backcourt. He and four-star freshman Jayden Epps are the lone ball-handlers on the roster which is a concern since neither are proven but the hope is that the wings can take all the pressure off of them.

The Illini landed Texas Tech transfer Terrence Shannon, a 6’4 guard, and double-digit scorer, along with stretch forward/wing Matthew Mayer, who can make over 40% from deep. Rising sophomore guard RJ Melendez is a national breakout candidate and Ty Rodgers is a top-50 talent.

Even without Cockburn, the duo of Coleman Hawkins and Baylor transfer Dain Dainja should be just fine at the center position. Overall, there’s plenty of potential for the Illini but there are some backcourt questions. This team may have the highest ceiling among all Big Ten Basketball teams for now but their floor is what keeps them at No. 2.

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