Terrence Shannon Jr. has had a couple of impressive seasons at Illinois after transferring from Texas Tech. This past season, he as instrumental as the Illini went to the Elite Eight. Now, he is preparing for the NBA Draft after having his charges of rape cleared once and for all.
As a result, Illinois Athletic Director Josh Whitman revealed the decision to hang Shannon's jersey in the rafters at the State Farm Center. Here's what Whitman said about the decision, per Derek Piper of 247Sports.
“Obviously, (Shannon) doesn't meet the objective criteria that we have outlined for consideration for the jersey program, but I think we all recognize that without question that he was one of the top 10 players in America this year — probably one of the top two or three players in America,” Whitman said. “He had one of the greatest single seasons in the history of Illinois basketball. Arguably, the greatest season in the history of Illinois basketball.”
“We all understand now that there were factors beyond his control that prevented those votes from being where they needed to be in order for him to satisfy the criteria, and we're happy to make an exception in this case to recognize one of the great players that this program has ever seen. Certainly, I think that's very appropriate and look forward to welcoming him back at an appropriate time to celebrate him in front of our 15,500 fans and to elevate that jersey into the rafters.”
After two seasons with the Illini, it's a well-deserved honor for Shannon.
Illinois AD elaborates on Terrence Shannon Jr.'s time
It was a strong two seasons for Shannon. After his rape charges got cleared, his NBA Draft stock started to grow as well. It was a difficult season for Shannon, who was suspended and then allowed to return despite all the legal situations going on.
Despite all that, he finished the year as the top scorer for Illinois with 21.9 PPG in 29 contests. But, Whitman admits how impressed he was by Shannon's attitude despite everything going on.
“I can't say enough about the way that young man handled this season,” Whitman said. “I have been around sports my entire life. I don't remember another demonstration of commitment and focus that rivals what Terrence was able to do night in and night out over the course of the second half of this basketball season. For someone who has his age, 23 years old, to be able to go into those arenas, to be able to face those crowds and to be able to do what he did each and every night on the court was just something to behold. Now, certainly through the lens of history, I think it will just continue to grow in its status over time.”
Terrence Shannon Jr. played 61 games in his two seasons at Illinois and was a huge part of their success. Now, his jersey will hang in the rafters for the fans to see for a long time.
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