Illini’s Hawkins to hit portal, still keen on draft

• Jeff Borzello, ESPN

  • Staff WriterApr 30, 2024, 07:46 PM ET Close Basketball recruiting expert.
  • Signed up with ESPN in 2014.
  • Graduate of University of Delaware.Illinois forward Coleman

Hawkins stated Tuesday he plans to enter the transfer portal however remains focused on the NBA draft.Hawkins said recently in a post revealing his choice to

go into the NBA draft that he is “100% set on the 2024 NBA draft.”On Tuesday, he kept that stance– however is giving himself another choice by

likewise entering the transfer portal.Editor’s Picks 1 Associated”My intention is 100%to stay in the draft and I am completely focused on that procedure,”Hawkins composed on social networks.”I wished to make certain I

take every

chance to secure myself in case of injury or any other unforeseen situations down the roadway. “With the recent NCAA guideline modification concerning graduate transfers, and the Might 1 due date approaching, entering the portal offers me the best opportunity to protect myself in those circumstances and maximize my chances as I go through the pre-draft process.”The deadline to send paperwork to get in the transfer portal is 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday.Hawkins, a 6-foot-10 forward, had the best season of his career in 2023-24 while making honorable mention All-Big 10 honors. He balanced 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.7 helps, shooting 36.9%from 3-point variety and showing impressive adaptability defensively.The California native had a hard time as a freshman however began to reveal flashes of his capacity as a sophomore and has actually made strides every season. He’s begun 68 games over the last 2 seasons and 82 games throughout his four-year career.Coach Brad Underwood began to replace Hawkins on Tuesday, landing a dedication from Evansville transfer Ben Humrichous. The 6-foot-9 forward balanced 14.7 points and 4.7 points this past season, shooting 41.4 %from 3.