Illinois Basketball Should Pursue Mountain West Transfer

Illinois Basketball Should Pursue Mountain West Transfer

JT Toppin is a 6 foot 9 inch forward who just finished a freshman year at New Mexico. Toppin averaged 12.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, and 1.1 steals on a very successful New Mexico squad. His stat line speaks for itself as it shows that Toppin is a beast on the glass and has outstanding defensive versatility. Additionally, he fits the mold of positional length and multiple years of eligibility that Brad Underwood prizes. The Mountain West standout has just entered the transfer portal per reports on Twitter. As a result, Illinois Basketball should pursue Toppin as he fits some key needs.

Rim Protection

Illinois Basketball needs rim protection. Their main frontcourt pieces right now are Carey Booth, Morez Johnson Jr, and Jason Jakstys. All three are versatile pieces, however, none of them project as a true rim protector. After Orlando Antigua returned, Ugonna Onyenso was a piece that Illinois Basketball was rumored for. However, Onyenso has just received a crystal ball for Alabama. With the May 1st deadline, Illinois needs to fill its 5 scholarships effectively.

As it stands now, Illinois needs to add a rim protector, perimeter wing, and backup point guard to its fold. JT Toppin could act as a rim protector that would elevate the frontcourt room of Illinois Basketball.