Drew Timme Would Add Another Element to Illinois’ Frontcourt

With the summer circuit in full swing, coaches all across the country are hitting the recruiting trail hard. That being said, we’re starting to see offers go out to various 2019 and 2020 prospects. One name that’s gained some traction over the past couple weeks is Drew Timme, a top-50 recruit in the country and a four-star listed by 247Sports.com. At 6-foot-11, 210 pounds, Timme’s game isn’t that of an ordinary big man.

The Richardson, Texas, product has extraordinary handles for a guy his size. There aren’t too many guys at any level who are just under 7-foot and calling for screens at the top of the key. He’s able to break down opposing defenders off the dribble and finish above the rim. Timme complements his ability to get to the rim with a respectable shot from deep. He has a slender frame right now and he’ll likely want to add another 15-20 pounds for competition at the next level.

The offers continue to roll in for the big man. Izzo and Michigan State was the most recent offer for Timme, adding to an already impressive list that includes Arizona, Florida, Gonzaga, Louisville, Ohio State, Purdue, Xavier and more.

Timme would give the Illini a proven offensive menace in the frontcourt, unlike anything on the current roster. A mobile big, he gives Underwood a nice variety of options while on the floor. Timme is a legitimate threat on the wing, not only capable of nailing shots behind the arc, but also finishing at the rim. A rotation of Kane, Higgs, Nichols and Timme would give the staff a nice collection of skill to throw at conference foes. All four bigs bring something different to the rotation and allow Underwood & Co. to match up however they want with teams.

Underwood offered Timme last summer, according to 247Sports.com. The Illini have been in on Timme for a while now, but his recruitment is just starting to heat up. The only two crystal ball picks have him headed to Duke, but they haven’t even offered. In fact, he’s probably plan C or D for Coach K. Can Underwood and his staff hold off the blue bloods and secure a commitment from what would be their top-ranked big in recent memory?