Redshirt could be best option for Illini's lone freshman Stan Simpson

When Illinois hosts Division II Lewis in the final exhibition game Sunday, Simpson gets another chance to make a statement with his game, a good thing since he doesn't make much noise with his mouth.

"Stan's a bit of a loner,'' said Illini senior Chester Frazier. "He doesn't really talk much. I try to let him know he's a big part of this, keep him motivated. He's the only freshman and lives far away from everybody. It's hard to make him feel comfortable when he's so far away, especially when he doesn't talk.''

Coach Bruce Weber no longer scripts minutes or rotations -- they must be earned rather than shared -- but he will likely take an extra look at Simpson, the 6-foot-9, 220-pounder who surprised the coaching staff with his ability.

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