Like many programs, Illinois needs to reload and retool its roster for the 2025-2026 season.
Illinois has lost key players, like Morez Johnson; but they retained big names, too: Kylan Boswell.
But is Will Riley going to the NBA? Are the Illini doing well in the transfer portal?
Illinois basketball was looking to reload in the transfer portal – and so far, they missed on its top reported targets.
Dix is Big East Bound
Josh Dix, a sharpshooter from the Iowa Hawkeyes, committed to Creighton over Illinois. He was a 6’5 guard who could’ve replaced Kasparas Jakucinois. Dix averaged over 14 points per game and made 42% of his threes.
Dix would’ve provided a spark to an offense that finished 17/18th in Big Ten three-point efficiency this past season.
Sellers is also Big East Bound
Junior Jaylin Sellers committed to Providence over Illinois. He’s a 6’4 shooting guard.
He previously played at UCF. This will be his third school in five seasons. Sellers played only three games this past season for UCF, and has dealt with back issues.
Two seasons ago, Sellers played the whole season. He scored 16 points per game, but shot just 28% from three point line.
Sandfort is heading to Big Ten Rival
Pryce, a 6’7 sophomore forward from Iowa, committed to Nebraska.
It was reported Illinois talked to him, although Sellers and Dix were likely higher targets.
Pryce finished 2025 strong. Overall, he added 8 points per game and shot over 40% from deep.
So who else is Illinois targeting?
Illinois just signed Zvonimir Ivisic is a junior center who’s 7’2. Last season, at Arkansas, he scored 8 point per game and shot over 40% from three.
And yes, his twin brother is Tomislav Ivisic, who’s Illinois’ current center. And he announced he is coming back to Illinois.
I think Illinois will still try to add another high level guard via the transfer portal. But we may have to wait a while. In a similar situation to Illinois getting Matthew Mayer and Terrence Shannon Jr. via the transfer portal, Illinois could wait until late May.
That’s when many college players decide to not enter the NBA draft and return to college.
Illinois is also hoping to land Italy product Dame Sarr, who is a 6’6 wing that Duke and Kansas are also looking at. Illinois has seen its international recruiting skyrocket in recent years — landing Jakucionis and Ivisic.
Until then, Illinois roster for next season will be a “work in progress.”
So Who’s Returning?
Luckily, Illinois is retaining some key pieces.
Rising senior guard Kylan Boswell announced he’s returning to Illinois. Boswell is one of the nation’s best on-ball defenders and his offense really improved late season.
Over the last eight games, he averaged 17 points per game, and his shot selection really improved: less three pointers, and more lay ups.
Rising junior Jake Davis announced he’s returning to Illinois. The 6’6 forward scored just three-points per game this past season.
And Illinois is bringing back Ty Rodgers, who redshirted last season. Rodgers is 6’7 forward who can handle point responsibilities. He is not a three point threat, which may be a reason why he redshirted this past season – it was possible he’d see less playing time. Underwood wanted to play shooters during the preseason.
But with Tre White and Morez Johnson leaving, Rodgers has a real chance to earn good playing time. And he’s a great rebounder, defender and leader.
Who Left Illinois?
Junior Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn left. The guard didn’t score a point over the last 7 games, and saw his playing time cut a lot.
Freshman Morez Johnson transferred to Michigan. The fan favorite was an excellent center, consistent scorer down low and a strong rebounder. His loss will sting.
Senior Tre White left for Kansas. He scored over 10 points a game.
Final Verdict
So far, Illinois is bringing back just two guys who will play a lot: Ty Rodgers and Kylan Boswell.
So Illinois will be hunting for a shooting guard and a power forward/wing over the next two months.
Illinois’ bench could be fine, with potentially having Ben Humrichous (6’9 forward who historically shoots well), Ivisic (three point threat from Arkansas), and Jake Davis.
But if Illinois wants to contend for a Big Ten title, they’ll need to upgrade talent in the starting lineup.
Remember, Illinois is likely losing two NBA first round draft picks: Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley.
