Coleman Hawkins calmed the storm of concerned Illinois basketball fans after his transfer portal decision.
The Illinois basketball program is coming off a stellar 2023-24 season. The Illini won the Big 10 championship and advanced to March Madness’ Elite 8 bracket. Nevertheless, the team is experiencing some college basketball transfer portal movement, with Coleman Hawkins being another development. Hawkins posted an elaborate social media message explaining his portal decision to calm fans down.
Coleman Hawkins explains Illinois basketball portal move
Hawkins explained that his move to enter the college basketball transfer portal strategically aids him if injury prevents him from proceeding forward with his NBA plan.
“Illini nation,” Hawkins began on X. “My intention is 100% to stay in the [NBA] Draft and I am fully focused on that process. I wanted to make sure I take every opportunity to protect myself in case of injury or any unforeseen circumstances down the road.”
“With the recent NCAA rule change regarding grad transfers, and the May 1st deadline approaching, entering the portal gives me the best chance to protect myself in those instances and maximize my opportunities as I go through the pre-draft process,” Hawkins added.
“I love the University of Illinois and am proud to be earning my degree here. I’m forever indebted to Coach Underwood and loved playing for him throughout my college career. This was truly one of the best years of my life, and no matter what the future holds, Illinois will always be home.”
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Coleman Hawkins will continue his aspirations to play in the NBA and is entering the college basketball transfer portal as a precautionary measure. However, to make sure Illini fans knew he was not trying to forsake the program, he added the caption “Relax, lol” to his lengthy X post.
Hawkins was huge in Illinois’ March Madness and regular season run. He averaged 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.1 blocks in 2023-24. Hopefully, his professional plans work out after an impressive four years in the Big 10 with Illinois.
