Illinois Basketball Eyes Mekhi Robertson to Boost Three-Point Shooting in 2027
Table of Contents
- Illinois Basketball Eyes Mekhi Robertson to Boost Three-Point Shooting in 2027
- Underwood Aims to Improve Illini’s Shooting Prowess
- Mekhi Robertson: A Potential Solution
- Impressive Performance in E16 EYBL
- Robertson’s Shooting Ability: A Perfect Fit for Illinois
- Recruiting Profile: Mekhi Robertson
- Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of College Basketball Shooting
- Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Basketball Recruiting
The Illinois Fighting Illini are actively seeking to enhance their roster with proficient shooters, and Mekhi Robertson, a highly-regarded four-star recruit from the 2027 class, has emerged as a promising prospect. The 6-foot-3 guard, currently showcasing his talents at SoCal Academy and hailing from New Jersey, is ranked as the No. 41 player nationally in his class, according to On3.com.With Illinois looking to improve their three-point shooting, Robertson’s skills could be a valuable addition to the team in the coming years.
Underwood Aims to Improve Illini’s Shooting Prowess
Head coach Brad underwood is prioritizing the acquisition of skilled shooters to elevate the team’s offensive capabilities. the 2023-24 Illini squad struggled with consistent outside shooting, a stark contrast to the Elite Eight team that boasted reliable marksmen like terrence Shannon Jr. and Marcus Domask.
Did You No? The average three-point percentage in NCAA Division I men’s basketball during the 2023-24 season was approximately 34.5%.
Mekhi Robertson: A Potential Solution
Mekhi Robertson has emerged as a potential solution to Illinois’ shooting woes. The four-star recruit is currently ranked as the no. 11 point guard in the nation and the No.5 player in California, where he plays high school basketball. Since the recruiting period opened, Robertson has garnered attention from numerous programs, including Illinois, as confirmed by 365 Recruits and the player himself on social media.
2027 Mekhi Robertson tells us he has heard from the following schools as yesterday:
Illinois
Saint Louis
Virginia Tech
Florida State
Oklahoma State
pepperdine
Mississippi State
Cornell
West Virginia
Pittsburgh
Seton Hall
Arizona State
Clemson
TCUHe has been offered by…
– 365 Recruits (@365_Recruits)
June 16,2025
Impressive Performance in E16 EYBL
Robertson’s recruitment is gaining momentum,fueled by his outstanding performance in AAU ball. Playing for Team Final in the E16 EYBL, he has averaged 16.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in eight games. His shooting efficiency is particularly noteworthy,boasting a 59.5% field goal percentage and a remarkable 36.7% from beyond the arc.
Pro Tip: College coaches often prioritize players who demonstrate consistent performance and efficiency in high-level AAU tournaments.
Robertson’s Shooting Ability: A Perfect Fit for Illinois
Robertson’s proficiency in three-point shooting would be a welcome addition to the Illini’s offense.Last season, only three Illinois players exceeded 33% from three-point range, all of whom were forwards or centers. The departure of Tre White, the only guard who shot over 32%, further underscores the need for improved perimeter shooting.
Underwood’s preferred “fun-and-gun” offensive style requires a roster equipped with reliable shooters, a role that Robertson could potentially fill. His ability to consistently knock down shots would provide the Illini with the offensive firepower needed to compete at a high level.
Recruiting Profile: Mekhi Robertson
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | Mekhi Robertson |
| Class | 2027 |
| position | guard |
| Height | 6’3″ |
| Weight | 180 lbs |
| High School | SoCal Academy |
| AAU Team | Team Final (E16 EYBL) |
| National Ranking | No. 41 (On3.com) |
While On3.com lists Robertson as a point guard, his skill set suggests he is more suited to the role of a shooting guard. His remarkable shot and scoring ability position him as a player who could eventually rank among the top 50 recruits on various recruiting platforms.
Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of College Basketball Shooting
The emphasis on three-point shooting in college basketball has steadily increased over the past few decades. Coaches now prioritize recruiting players who can consistently knock down shots from beyond the arc, as it creates more spacing on the floor and opens up opportunities for other players. This trend has led to a greater focus on player progress, with coaches investing in specialized shooting drills and techniques to improve their players’ accuracy and consistency.
Furthermore, the rise of analytics in college basketball has further reinforced the importance of three-point shooting. Teams are now using data to identify the most efficient shots and to develop offensive strategies that maximize their scoring potential. This data-driven approach has led to a greater emphasis on shot selection, with teams encouraging their players to take more open three-pointers and fewer contested mid-range shots.
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Basketball Recruiting
What factors influence a basketball recruit’s decision to commit to a particular school?
A recruit’s decision is influenced by factors such as the coaching staff, playing style, academic reputation, campus environment, and the possibility for early playing time.
How do college coaches evaluate potential recruits?
Coaches evaluate recruits based on their skill set, athleticism, basketball IQ, character, and academic performance. They attend high school and AAU games, watch film, and conduct interviews to assess a player’s potential.
What is the role of AAU basketball in the college recruiting process?
AAU basketball provides a platform for players to showcase their talents in front of college coaches. It allows coaches to evaluate players against top competition and to identify potential recruits.
What are your thoughts on Illinois’ recruiting strategy? Do you think Mekhi Robertson would be a good fit for the Illini?
Share your predictions for the 2027 recruiting class in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This article provides data about a potential basketball recruit and does not constitute a guarantee of future recruitment or performance.
