Terrence Shannon Jr. Announces Return to Illinois Fighting Illini
Redshirt Sophomore Guard Elects to Stay in Champaign
Shannon's Decision Bolsters Illini Roster for 2023-24 Season
Terrence Shannon Jr. will continue his collegiate basketball career in a familiar shade of orange and blue.
The redshirt sophomore guard announced on Monday that he will return to the Illinois Fighting Illini, withdrawing from the 2023 NBA Draft and providing a major boost to Brad Underwood's squad for the upcoming season.
Shannon, a Chicago native who transferred to Illinois from Texas Tech in 2022, enjoyed a breakout season in Champaign.
Shannon's Impact on the Illini
- Averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
- Led the team in scoring in Big Ten play.
- Earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors.
He started all 33 games for the Illini, who finished 19-14 and reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Shannon's Decision
Shannon's decision to return to Illinois is a significant development for the program.
The Illini will return their top four scorers from last season, including Shannon, forward Matthew Mayer, center Kofi Cockburn, and guard RJ Melendez.
With the addition of a highly touted recruiting class led by five-star prospect Jayden Epps, Illinois is poised to compete for a Big Ten title and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament in 2023-24.
Bright Future for Illinois
Shannon's return is a testament to the progress that Underwood has made in rebuilding the Illinois program.
The Illini have now made three straight NCAA Tournament appearances under Underwood and are poised to contend for a national championship in the years to come.
With Shannon leading the way, the future is bright for Illinois basketball.
