NCAA Basketball: 8 teams that should target top-100 guard Chris Johnson

Illinois Fighting Illini

One program that has been desperately looking for a ball-handler is Illinois. For the longest time this offseason, the team was in the mix to land Toledo transfer Rayj Dennis for a month but in the end, he went with Baylor. They did rebound by adding Iowa State transfer, Jeremiah Williams. However, he’s not only a two-time transfer and would need a waiver to play next season but he’s also coming off a serious season-ending injury and may not be 100% healthy.

With Terrence Shannon coming back, the Illini is in “win now” mode. But with Shannon and UVU transfer Justin Harmon leaving after next season, this could be a good long-term option for both sides if that fits. I don’t know if Williams affects their ability to land another guard but there’s a good chance they’ll at least try.

Iowa Hawkeyes

The Hawkeyes are known for having one of the top offenses in NCAA Basketball, though it usually comes from the wings and frontcourt. With both Connor McCaffery and Ahron Ulis gone, there’s a wide-open hole at the point guard position that anyone can fill. It’s a high likelihood that double-digit guard Tony Perkins will be that guy be he’s more of an off-guard than a true distributor.

If Johnson really wants to play point guard at the NCAA Basketball level, Iowa would be a nice spot for him. There’d be plenty of playing time available right out the gate and if the team also lands reported transfer target Grant Nelson, they’ll be a contender in the Big Ten.