Chicago coaches: Paris Parham good hire for Illini

"It's rare a person gets an opportunity to do a do-over," said Whitney Young coach Tyrone Slaughter, whose roster includes nationally-ranked juniors Jahlil Okafor and Paul White. "I think coach Groce and the Illinois program got a do-over. We all liked the Chew hire, but I think the Paris Parham hire is one we love. It's means nothing negative against Chew. It's about the relationship we all have with Paris.

"I think they finally may have won over Chicago with that hire," Smith said. "I think they did. I think he can really help with what they're trying to do. He knows the city of Chicago. He has the same views I have. We've been friends for over 20 years and not just basketball."

Scott Powers