Klee's Top 25 poll - Illinois #21

Even after watching countless workouts and pickup games this offseason, Illinois is tough to gauge. I think the Illini are worthy of a Top 25 ranking. But it's close. Demetri McCamey has been super. I'm surprised when Mike Davis misses a jumper. D.J. Richardson is fearless as a freshman. Bruce Weber is your coach. Those factors nudged the Illini into our first poll, despite another early exit in the NCAA tournament. I see an Illinois team that gets better as the season moves forward and roles are defined.

Klee