Which Prospects Are Illinois Basketball's Top 2026 Recruiting Targets?

The No. 7 player in the country (per 247Sports), Mingo is a 6-foot-5 combo guard from New York. Although he is listed as a combo guard, Mingo has the tools to play lead guard – and likely will – at the next level. A complete player, he can shoot (off the catch and off the dribble), get downhill, facilitate and is a top-notch transition player. Athletic vertically, laterally and in terms of top speed, Mingo has a college-ready game in every aspect. The Illini have yet to coax Mingo to campus, but the program and player have reportedly been trying to work out a visit.

Jasiah Jervis

After an impressive summer, Jervis has been flying up rankings and picking up offers from top programs left and right. Meanwhile, the Illini have been involved in Jervis’ recruitment from the jump, having offered the 6-foot-4 guard back in March. At the time, Jervis was the No. 109 prospect in the country; he has since leapt to No. 60. Although Jervis specializes as a spot-up shooter, the New York native has grown his game and shown flashes of being an on-ball player and a threat in the pick-and-roll. Jervis has scheduled only one visit thus far (Michigan State), so the Illini aren't behind the curve by not having yet brought him to Champaign.

Arafan Diane

Illinois entered the race for Diane a bit late (offering him towards the end of June), but the program has made it clear he’s a priority. Just three weeks ago, coach Brad Underwood went to see the nation’s top-rated center in person. Diane, who is tabbed as the No. 15 player in the country, has exceptional physical gifts, both in terms of size (7-foot-1 and 260 pounds) and athleticism (incredible footwork and agility). Diane has three visits currently lined up, none of which are to Champaign. (Houston, Kentucky and Arkansas are on the docket.)

Alex Constanza

A sweet-shooting wing with great size (6-foot-8) and a solid rim-attacking game, Constanza is the prototype wing prospect for Underwood and the Illini. Rated No. 21 in the country, Constanza has already taken a visit to Champaign (back in December of 2024) and remains a key target for the program. Considering Costanza's connection with associate head coach Orlando Antigua, the Illini appear to be in a great spot in his recruitment.

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