Deron and Anderson are likely the two best players in program history. Gill is probably 3.
Derek Harper gives Gill a run for his money.
Nick Anderson was a top 10 McD AA. Then after 2 years of college ball, he was the #11 pick in the NBA draft. Nick was the most graceful, talented, polished, and skilled of the Flying Illini. He had the floor game and the above the rim hang time. Battle launched, Gill flew, Nick floated.
From way back in the day:
Slush fund casualty Rich Jones could have been the best. After transferring to Memphis State his career was sidetracked by off court issues and a knee injury. He was still a good player in the old ABA.
SG Don Freeman was a star in the pre-merger ABA.
C Skip Thoren did well in the ABA, before a knee injury ended his career.
PG Tal Brody said no the NBA to start basketball in Israel.
CG Jim Dawson left the Pacers to pursue more lucrative business opportunities.
SG/SF Dave Downy told Marty Blake not to waste a draft pick.