Illinois
Hey, hey, hey: Illinois offered a 7-footer!
Donovan Clingan. Zach Edey.
What do those two big men have in common?
They played a very key role in three of Illinois’ losses in the 2023-24 season, including the disappointing sendoff against UCONN in the Elite Eight.
Well, with Orlando Antigua back on the bench, now is the time for Illinois to chase after a very big man of its own.
And on Saturday, the Illini did just that, offering 7-foot-1 prospect Malachi Moreno.
Excited & humbled to receive an offer from the University of Illinois! Thank you to Coach Underwood, Coach Antigua and the rest of the staff for believing in me! Go Illini! #Illini pic.twitter.com/Y1KE76PJib
— Malachi Moreno (@malachimoreno24) April 27, 2024
A Kentucky native, Moreno is the consensus top player in the state for the 2025 class. He already has dozens of offers, including Antigua’s former stomping grounds at UK.
According to MaxPreps, Moreno averaged 16 points and 13.3 rebounds per game in his junior season.
Not saying he’s the one, but it’s good to see Illinois chasing after a major need in a VERY big man on the roster.