Illinois basketball is seeking frontcourt help from the transfer portal amid recent program changes, with former Illini assistant coach Orlando Antigua returning as the associate head coach. Ugonna Onyenso, a highly recruited center who recently entered the portal after a brief stint at Kentucky, is a potential target for Illinois due to his paint prowess and the connection with Antigua.

By the Numbers
  • Ugonna Onyenso was the No. 36 player in the class of 2022 and the No. 9 center in the country.
  • Onyenso averaged 3.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game in the past season.
State of Play
  • Illinois is facing frontcourt shortages after recent departures and needs more paint help.
  • Former Illini assistant coach Orlando Antigua has returned as the associate head coach and is expected to have a swift impact on recruiting talent for Illinois.
Bottom Line

Illinois basketball is looking to address frontcourt shortages, and Ugonna Onyenso, with his impressive stats and potential, could be a valuable addition to the team as they seek to dominate the paint.