Illini Guard Alan Griffin Enters the Transfer Portal

Illinois got some bad news yesterday with junior guard Alan Griffin announcing that he has entered the transfer portal.

The guard only started one game this season, but averaged 8.9 points and 4.5 rebounds per game in a key bench role. Griffin shot 41.6% from three (best on the team) and hit 86.1% of his free throws, providing key shooting for an Illini offense that struggled down the stretch. He was key in a late season win against Northwestern where he scored 24 points off the bench and shot 6 of 8 from three. While not in the starting rotation, Griffin played borderline starter minutes at times and was a key weapon for the Illini on offense.

The impending loss of Griffin could be even more problematic for Illinois as they are set to lose Andres Feliz (graduation) and star Ayo Dosunmu hasn’t decided if he’ll head to the NBA or return next season. Illinois could bring back most of their roster next season but they’ll need to find someone to replace Griffin’s shooting and if Dosunmu also departs it could cause some major issues next year.

As Griffin is transferring as an undergrad he’ll have to sit out next season before finishing his final two years of eligibility.