Should Illinois Basketball Add a Fifth-Year Player for 2026-27?

As of mid-August, Illinois has a roster count of 14 players. Back in late June, Illini coach Brad Underwood confirmed that the Illini have “a roster [spot] open if we need it.” As a projected national title contender, Illinois doesn’t exactly need to add another player. But is there any good reason not to? And if they were to consider filling that hole, whom might Underwood consider?

Should Illinois basketball pursue another player for 2026-27?

Apr 3, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood looks on during a practice session ahead of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The main drawback of a roster addition in mid-August: If the player is going to be a contributor – and if not, why tack them on to the squad this late? – it makes things that much tougher keeping everyone happy.

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Imagine being a borderline rotation player who has spent the entire summer waking up before the sun rises to get up shots, battle in practice and lift until the sun goes down – emptying the tank and pouring everything into competing for reserve minutes. Then, a newbie waltzes in off the street and steals those minutes in the blink of an eye. It goes without saying: That is not ideal for morale or overall team chemistry.

On the flip side, the name of the game is winning. And if a player can help the Illini win in 2026-27, why shouldn’t they be added to the mix? The next question: Where can Illinois use extra depth? The backcourt may be the knee-jerk reaction, as Quentin Coleman and Stefan Vaaks don’t appear to have settled reserves behind them.

But freshman Ethan Brown has reportedly impressed thus far, and Illinois has enough playmaking diversity across its roster to make a traditional backup point guard almost unnecessary. (The Illini don’t even have a traditional starting point guard.)

The wing, between proven talents Andrej Stojakovic and Jake…

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Publish date : 2026-08-13 00:09:00

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