The Illinois Fighting Illini fell just short of their first national championship appearance since the 2004-05 season. Entering this year’s NCAA Tournament as the South Region’s No. 3 seed, they advanced to the Final Four. Their run ended there, as they lost to the No. 2 UConn Huskies 71-62.
It was still a solid year, though, going 28-9 and 15-5 in Big Ten matchups. However, the offseason hasn’t treated the Fighting Illini as kindly. Brad Underwood’s squad has lost three players to the transfer portal while bringing in one. As of now, the group ranks just 12th in the Big Ten.
Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood.Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Illinois is working toward making up for its losses by targeting one of the most sought-after players available. On3’s Joe Tipton reports that the Fighting Illini are one of the top teams for former Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell.
“Wisconsin transfer guard John Blackwell has a top six of Alabama, Arizona, Duke, Illinois, Louisville and UCLA… Most people I’ve spoken with believe this recruitment will come down to Duke and Illinois,” Tipton wrote.
After three years with the Badgers, Blackwell put together his most productive season. The junior started 34 games, averaging 19.1 points (career-high), 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists (career-high). He also shot 43% from the field and 38.9% from beyond the three-point line.
His performance on the court led to the guard earning All-Big Ten third team honors. He’s quickly become one of the most recognizable names in college basketball with an On3 NIL valuation of $1.5 million.
As the No. 5 player to hit the transfer portal this offseason, per On3 Industry Rankings, Blackwell would be a major addition for Illinois. He could be the team’s second addition, alongside guard Stefan Vaaks (Providence Friars).
Related: Gonzaga Linked to No. 3 Recruit in College Basketball Transfer Portal
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Basketball section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.