As the Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team gears up for their highly anticipated 2024-25 season, all eyes are on the arrival of their prized recruit, Will Riley. The young Canadian phenom has been making waves in the basketball world, and his journey to Champaign has been nothing short of remarkable. From dominating the EYBL and Basketball Without Borders Global Camp to reclassifying and signing with Illinois, Riley's potential is undeniable, and the Illini faithful are eager to see what he can bring to the court.

A Talent Beyond His Years: Introducing Will Riley

Hailing from the Great White North

Despite hailing from the Canadian town of Kitchener, Ontario, which may seem a world away from Champaign, Riley's journey to Illinois has been anything but ordinary. The eight-hour drive from his hometown to the Illini's campus has not deterred the young talent, who has already made a name for himself on the national and international stages.

Reclassifying and Signing with Illinois

Originally a member of the Class of 2025, Riley spent the past two years honing his skills at the Phelps School in Malvern, Pennsylvania. His impressive performances on the court led him to reclassify to the Class of 2024, and in June, he made the decision to sign with the University of Illinois, becoming the highest-rated recruit the Illini have landed during the internet era.

Dominating the Competition

Riley's prowess on the court is undeniable. During his time at the Phelps School, he led the team to a runner-up finish in the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association (PAISAA) Tournament, showcasing his versatility with averages of 26.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. But his impact extends far beyond the high school level, as he also dominated the prestigious Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) and was named MVP of the Basketball Without Borders Global Camp during the NBA's 2024 All-Star Weekend.

A Recruiting Coup for the Illini

Riley's decision to sign with Illinois was a major coup for head coach Brad Underwood and the Illini program. As a top-10 recruit in the Class of 2025, Riley had no shortage of options, with 17 other power-conference programs vying for his services. His choice to don the orange and blue not only bolsters the Illini's roster but also holds significant weight for future recruiting efforts.

Versatility and Upside

On the court, Riley's skill set is truly remarkable. Possessing the ball-handling and playmaking abilities of a guard in the frame of a forward, he presents a unique challenge for opposing defenses. Underwood has been experimenting with different lineup combinations, including pairing Riley with fellow freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis, to maximize the team's potential.

Unlocking His Potential

While Riley's talent is undeniable, the key to his success at the collegiate level will be his ability to adapt and develop. As with most freshmen, his defense and physical frame will need to be addressed, but the young Canadian has already shown a commitment to improving, adding 15 pounds since arriving on campus.Underwood's willingness to explore Riley's versatility as a potential lead guard, rather than just a scorer, is a testament to the coaching staff's belief in his potential. If Riley can continue to unlock his abilities while complementing the other outstanding talent on the Illini roster, the future looks bright for both the player and the program.