The talented Illinois basketball player, Marcus Domask, is taking steps to secure an additional year of eligibility, as reported by the IlliniInquirer of 247Sports. The team’s head coach, Brad Underwood, revealed that Domask has begun the process during a media briefing on Tuesday.
Domask began his collegiate basketball journey at Southern Illinois during the 2019-20 season and spent four seasons there before transferring to Illinois just before the previous season. He has now enlisted the assistance of a legal representative to navigate the process, specifically seeking a hardship waiver related to the 2020-21 season when a leg injury limited his playing time to just 10 matches. Additionally, he was granted an extra year of eligibility due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coach Underwood, in discussing the matter, mentioned, “Have not heard anything of late. That’s in his hands in terms of going on and moving forward with some legal counsel. We’ll see where that all ends up.”
Domask made history in the NCAA Tournament when he achieved the 10th triple-double in its history. This remarkable feat included a 12-point, 11-rebound, and 10-assist performance during the Fighting Illini’s resounding 85-69 victory over Morehead State in the tournament’s first round. Throughout his sole season with the Fighting Illini, he delivered impressive statistics, averaging 15.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, significantly contributing to the team’s journey to the Elite Eight.
In a bid to further his career, the senior player is also exploring options in the NBA and is set to participate in the 2024 Portsmouth Invitational Tournament from April 17-20. This event, held at Churchland High School in Portsmouth, Virginia, is a showcase for college seniors aiming to attract attention from NBA Draft scouts.
If Domask’s waiver application is approved, he is poised to be among the top returning players in the Big Ten, adding considerable experience to the Fighting Illini’s lineup.
Moreover, the Illinois basketball team recently strengthened its roster with the addition of 6-foot-10 stretch forward, Carey Booth, a sophomore transfer from Notre Dame. They have also secured commitments from Mercer forward Jake Davis, Arizona guard Kylan Boswell, and Louisville forward Tre White, all of whom are transfer players. Consequently, their transfer class is currently ranked as the No. 2 class, as per 247Sports.
On the flip side, the team has seen three players, Dain Dainja, Sencire Harris, and Amani Hansberry, enter the portal as departures. Additionally, Terrence Shannon Jr. is heading to the NBA.
Reflecting on Domask’s prowess, his impressive statistics from recent seasons highlight his growth as a player:
2023-24:
603 total points, 150 total assists, 190 total rebounds, 15.9 points per game, 3.9 assists per game, 5.0 rebounds per game, 45.3% shooting from the field, and 29.7% shooting from beyond the arc
2022-23:
550 total points, 125 total assists, 190 total rebounds, 16.7 points per game, 5.0 assists per game, 5.8 rebounds per game, 44.7% shooting from the field, and 34.8% shooting from beyond the arc
2021-22:
468 total points, 120 total assists, 162 total rebounds, 15.1 points per game, 3.9 assists per game, 5.2 rebounds per game, 43.6% shooting from the field, and 35.2% shooting from beyond the arc
2020-21:
163 total points, 32 total assists, 45 total rebounds, 16.3 points per game, 3.2 assists per game, 4.5 rebounds per game, 48.4% shooting from the field, and 30.4% shooting from beyond the arc
2019-20:
434 total points, 79 total assists, 167 total rebounds, 13.6 points per game, 2.5 assists per game, 5.2 rebounds per game, 46.9% shooting from the field, and 39.7% shooting from beyond the arc
As Marcus Domask seeks to extend his collegiate career, the future looks bright for the Fighting Illini. His potential return for another season promises to be a significant boon for the team’s aspirations, both in the conference and national stages.