Illinois junior center Kofi Cockburn will miss the first three games of the 2021-22 regular season for the Fighting Illini.

Cockburn was suspended by the NCAA due to selling institutionally issued apparel and memorabilia in June of this year. Unfortunately for Cockburn if he did this a month later he wouldn't have gotten into any trouble because of the new NIL legislation that was passed in the state of Illinois in July. Cockburn will have to repay the amount generated from selling the apparel by making a donation to a charity of his choice.

Head coach Brad Underwood had this to say about the suspension,

“Once Kofi had a full understanding of where he stood regarding the draft, he made an educated decision to return to school, work toward his degree, & continue improving his game. That said, we understand and respect the NCAA’s decision in this matter, and we will move forward.”

He also stated that he thought it was unfair because at the time Cockburn had thoughts of declaring for the NBA draft. Underwood added that he respects the NCAA decision and the team will move forward.

Illinois had an impressive 24-7 record last season. They won the BIG-10 and lost in the round of 32 of the NCAA March Madness tournament to Loyola Chicago.

Cockburn and the Fighting Illini will look to have another impressive season. They start the season on Nov. 9 versus Jackson State. Cockburn's first game will be against Cincinnati.