Demarion Burch has officially joined the Illinois State Redbirds for the 2026-27 basketball season, as announced by head coach Ryan Pedon. Burch, a versatile player from Milwaukee, averaged 8.8 points per game last season with the Braves and has a strong competitive drive. Coach Pedon believes Burch's winning mindset will significantly benefit the program, especially in the Missouri Valley Conference. Excitement surrounds Burch's addition, as he enters with high expectations to make an impact.

By the Numbers
  • Burch averaged 8.8 points, 56 rebounds, and 25 assists last season.
  • He scored a season-high 25 points against Belmont on January 1.
  • During his senior year of high school, Burch averaged 27.3 points per game.
State of Play
  • The Redbirds finished the 2025-26 season with a record of 23-13.
  • They made it to the semifinals of the National Invitation Tournament, defeating notable teams like Wake Forest and Dayton.
What's Next

Anticipation builds for Burch’s transition to the Redbirds, where he will aim to elevate his game and contribute to a program coming off a successful season. His performance in the upcoming season could be pivotal in establishing team dynamics and overall success.

Bottom Line

Burch's arrival signals a promising future for the Illinois State basketball program, highlighting the importance of recruiting talent that prioritizes winning. As a dynamic player with experience and accolades, he has the potential to significantly influence the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons.