Being an Illini fan is always a roller coaster, and today, it looks like the metaphorical rise that came with the signing of Trent Frazier and Mark Smith is coupled by an inevitable fall: Jalen Coleman-Lands is transferring.
Yes, he probably was one of the most experienced/skilled players returning for next season, and yes, that means that the Illini will only have nine scholarship players next year. Nine. Like less than 10.
As of now, there’s no reason why he’s leaving. But he is. And most of us will be sad about it.
Maybe Brad Underwood will be able to work some magic and get a quality transfer, but until then, we wait. Shouldn’t be too hard for a fanbase that has been waiting about 10 years, right?
Ah, the life of an Illini fan.