Illini Rack Up Another Loss; 5-Star Chicago Prospect Commits to Kentucky

An already dreadful season for Illinois has suffered yet another defeat. Even more degrading, this loss came off the hardwood.

Silky-smooth Class of 2015 junior guard Charles Matthews (#1 SG, #12 overall) has announced his commitment to the University of Kentucky. Matthews' Illinois roots were apparently no match for the wooing of Coach John Calipari.

The signing marks yet another marquee Chicago-area product stolen away by Coach Cal, following in the footsteps of vaunted high schoolers Derrick Rose (University of Memphis, 2007) and Anthony Davis (University of Kentucky, 2011).

The wiry 6'6" guard - he weighs only 172 pounds - has suffered through an injury plagued season, but is still regarded as a top prospect nationally.

Defensively, Matthews is already highly regarded at the next level, using his length and athleticism to stifle the opposition. The young guard's ability to effortlessly slither his way to the rim, combined with a steadily improving jump shot, leaves defenders in a no-win situation.

This is another painful blow to an Illini squad that has only managed three wins since the calendar turned to 2014. Signing Matthews could have bolstered a solid 2015 recruiting class, with Coach John Groce having already received commitments from D.J. Williams (4-star SF) and Aaron Jordon (4-star SG).