Illini Sports Blog

Method to the Madness

Illinois coach Bruce Weber used an interesting technique last year by bringing in three committed seniors, two committed juniors and the three best freshmen in Illinois. By doing this, Weber was able to treat the committed players as a group, while showcasing the program to the younger prospects through the eyes of the guys already on board. There's a trick to weekends like this. Don't think a kid won't get offended if he feels his peers receive more attention while he is present. That's why Illinois' 2009 weekend looked well-conceived.

Because of last year's tactic, Illinois will revisit the formula this time around, bringing in all its current commits plus senior Chasson Randle, an in-state target. The long-range goal for the Illini is to create an environment where it's a rite of passage for the best young in-staters to attend their annual festivities. Weber has a long list of underclassmen slated for attendance, but the fact that sophomores Jabari Parker and Tommie Hamilton return from last year's event is a testament to the grand plan.

Dave Telep

Filed under: Illini Basketball
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