CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – In what’s been a tumultuous offseason for the Illinois men’s basketball team, with the expected departures of Kasparas Jakucionis, Will Riley, and several key transfers, there’s finally some good news. On Tuesday night guard/forward Ty Rodgers announced he was returning to the program.
Rodgers, who redshirted during the 2024-25 season to preserve eligibility, made the announcement on social media with a simple but impactful message: “I’m back.”
During the 2023-24 season, Rodgers starting all 38 games. He averaged 6.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while improving his free throw shooting from 38.7% to 58.5%. Known for his tenacious rebounding, Rodgers has the ability to make an impact on both ends of the court, standing at just 6-foot-6.
His return is especially important for a team facing multiple losses. With the transfer of Morez Johnson Jr., Tre White, and Carey Booth, as well as the likely NBA departures, getting Rodgers back in the fold is a major boost for Illinois. While Rodgers’ exact role for the upcoming season remains uncertain, questions surrounding his potential transition to a point guard or wing role will be addressed in the months ahead.
Head coach Brad Underwood has been working with Rodgers on developing his point guard skills, but it remains to be seen if that plan will continue or if Rodgers will take on more of a wing position, similar to White. Regardless, his return adds significant depth and potential to an Illinois roster that has faced its fair share of uncertainty.