One of the most coveted transfer portal players in college basketball this offseason is Illinois basketball transfer Coleman Hawkins. At the end of the Illinois season, Hawkins decided to test the NBA Draft waters and also enter the transfer portal in case he decided to come back for another season. Hawkins did in fact decide that he is returning to college basketball, but now he needs to find a new home. He was reportedly supposed this visit Louisville basketball this weekend, but now that isn't happening.
“Illinois transfer Coleman Hawkins is no longer expected to visit Louisville, a source told @UofLRivals,” Ty Spalding said in a tweet.
This is unfortunate news for a Louisville basketball program that desperately needs something to go their way. The Cardinals are traditionally one of the best programs in college basketball, but the past few years have not been kind to them. Coleman Hawkins is a very talented player that could've elevated their ceiling for next season. Unfortunately for Louisville, Hawkins will be headed elsewhere.
Hawkins had a big season for Illinois basketball this past year and was a big reason why the Fighting Illini were able to make it all the way to the Elite Eight. Hawkins finished the year averaging 12.1 PPG in 31.6 MPG. He also averaged 6.1 RPG and 2.7 APG. He improved a lot over the course of his college career, and whoever lands him is getting one of the top players in college basketball.
Part of what makes Hawkins such a good player is his athleticism for his size. He stands at 6'10”, but he doesn't move like someone who is that big. Hawkins can quickly take the ball up the floor, and he is also a solid three point shooter as he shot 36.9% from beyond the arc last season. He is a very versatile player.
College basketball world reacts to Coleman Hawkins not visiting Louisville basketball
Louisville basketball fans were excited to be hosting Coleman Hawkins this weekend. It would've been a major pickup for the Cardinals, but Hawkins is not going on the visit after all. The college basketball world has been reacting to the news.
Hawkins might be having trouble finding a new home because of how late it is in the offseason.
“Feel bad for Coleman Hawkins,” Aaron Torres said in a tweet. “Came back for a big NIL bag, but waited so late, and most marquee roster spots/NIL money has been spent. Lesson for next year's guys: If you're gonna withdraw at the deadline, your agent better be working behind the scenes to make sure there's a landing spot for you.”
Again, the timing of this is a big thing to pay attention to. A lot of teams have already finalized their rosters for next season.
“Significant news in the Coleman Hawkins sweepstakes,” Kevin Sweeney said in a tweet. “Think it’s been overlooked how few schools this late have the combination of role, money and willingness to significantly shake up their team in early June required to really go after Coleman.”
A lot of Louisville basketball fans are bummed about the news, but maybe this is for the best.
“Would have loved Hawkins on the team, perfect match for the system,” Josh Schneider said in a tweet. “But thought it was a bit odd going after him when we just got Pryor and waterman. Slight concern about chemistry issue. I want a 3 pt sniper forward or backup pg personally, not another big.”
Coleman Hawkins will not be joining Louisville, and his search will go on. A couple teams to pay attention to now are Kansas State and SMU. Hawkins has to make a decision soon.
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