Illinois Basketball: Dain Dainja Makes Transfer Decision

Originally posted on Armchair Illini
By Kirkland Chappell | Last updated 4/5/24

Illinois Basketball: Dain Dainja Makes Transfer Decision

Former Illinois Basketball big man and recent portal entry Dain Dainja has quickly come to a decision on his destination. The 6’9 power forward is taking his talents south to the Memphis University Tigers. Dain entered his name into the portal on Friday and heard from a massive list of coaches throughout the week. Of course, one of them being former NBA legend, and now Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway. On Friday, Dain announced his commitment to Memphis via “X”. This is now Dainja’s third round in the portal after originally starting at Baylor as a freshman in 2021-22.

See the tweet from Dainja (@DDainja on X) below.

Officially a Tiger Let’s goooo!!! pic.twitter.com/3RZzUAN5oe

— Dain Dainja (@DDainja) April 5, 2024

Dain’s Transfer Analysis

Certainly, Dain can make a big impact for the Tigers. As Illinois worked hard to find comfort in their “Booty ball” offense, Dain had a tough time adjusting to the style of play early on. He found his footing in February, and started to really gain some rhythm. However, by then, his minuets had already been cut heavily through the first 3/4 of the season. Illinois Basketball and Dain seemed to both have a mutual respect for where the direction of both parties were headed.

The Junior from Brooklyn Park Minnesota averaged 6.1 points and 3.6 rebounds per game for Illinois in 2024. With the proper offensive fit, the former Illini 5-man can be a star for another program. Penny is a great coach, and certainly has the potential to maximize growth from Dainja. A great week overall for Memphis, after picking up guard PJ Haggerty from Tulsa on Thursday.