Chambana Sun

University of Illinois guard Terrence Shannon Jr. was selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Shannon is the first Illini player to be drafted in the first round since Meyers Leonard in 2012 and is also the second player under Head Coach Brad Underwood's tenure to be drafted, following Ayo Dosunmu in 2021.

Shannon ranked third in NCAA scoring this past season, averaging 23.0 points per game, marking it as the highest scoring average by an Illini player in over five decades. He broke Illinois' all-time single-season scoring record with a total of 736 points across his 32 appearances, becoming the first Illini to surpass 700 points. Additionally, Shannon averaged 4.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 steals.

Coach Underwood expressed excitement for Shannon's achievement: "We are so excited for Terrence; this is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to the game he loves." He added that Shannon's decision to return for a final year of college not only contributed to team success but also solidified his position as a first-round pick.

Underwood praised Shannon's capabilities stating that "The Timberwolves made a great decision by selecting Terrence," highlighting his skills as a two-way player who can score in transition and defend effectively.

Shannon played a crucial role in leading Illinois to its third-winningest season (29-9), achieving their first NCAA Elite Eight appearance since 2005 and winning a Big Ten Tournament championship. He was named Most Outstanding Player at the Big Ten Tournament after delivering remarkable performances with scores including career-highs such as 40 points against Nebraska.

Terrence Shannon Jr.'s notable accomplishments during his time with Illinois include being named All-American by four media outlets and securing spots on both NCAA All-Region Team and First-team All-Big Ten lists among other accolades.

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