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[Halldan1]

Illinois announces transfer of sophomore forward Austin ColbertRaphielle Johnson

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After playing sparingly in each of his first two seasons as a member of the Illinois basketball program, sophomore forward Austin Colbert has decided to transfer. The program announced the news Wednesday evening.

"After meeting with Austin, he and I agree that it is in his best interest to pursue a fresh start and continue his education and basketball career at another institution," Illinois head coach John Groce said in the release. "We are appreciative of the effort Austin gave during his time at Illinois, and we will fully support him and his family throughout the transfer process."

Colbert played in 25 games for the Fighting Illini this season, averaging 1.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in 7.6 minutes of action per contest. Colbert will have to sit out the 2015-16 season at the program of his choice per NCAA transfer rules, and he'll have two seasons of eligibility remaining.

With Colbert transferring and Nnanna Egwu out of eligibility, Illinois has some spots to fill in its front court rotation heading into next season. Maverick Morgan will be a junior, while Leron Black and Michael Finke will both be sophomores. Also of note is the addition of Darius Paul, who returns to Illinois after spending a season at the junior college level.

Paul originally transferred in from Western Michigan but had to leave the program due to off-court issues, and he once again became part of Illinois' plans once those issues were addressed.

 

[SPK145]

He disappointingly never did anything for the Illini.

 

[Save Continental]

If we have any interest, I hope he doesn't ask his last high school coach for an opinion.

 

[Shuathelete]

Originally posted by Save Continental:

If we have any interest, I hope he doesn't ask his last high school coach for an opinion.

or Cosby for that matter

 

[Halldan1]

Originally posted by SPK145:
He disappointingly never did anything for the Illini.

There were a lot of mixed reviews about him. Most loved his potential but many questioned his future impact at a D1 level.


Austin Colbert

6-9, 200 | Class of 2013

Hometown Gladstone, N.J.
School Gill St. Bernard's School
Position Power Forward
Status Signed Illinois 11/12/2012

Scout Grade 80
4 Star

27 POSITION
24 REGIONAL
4 STATE

ESPN Analyst
Updated 05/01/2013

Strengths:
Colbert is a long and athletic post with a nice skill set for a young big man. He is a high level athlete who runs, jumps, and plays above the rim on both ends. He knows how to post, catches in traffic, and scores inside the paint utilizing a high release. He is most comfortable facing up with a smooth stroke and good 1-2 dribble game from the high post or the short corner and can even extend his shooting range out to 20 feet. Defensively, he is a big time shot blocker with timing and also projects as someone who could eventually defend multiple positions thanks to his length, agility, and lateral quickness at his size.

Weaknesses:
Colbert has a long and lanky build that is in desperate need of muscle and while he has a pretty good motor he also needs to become a more assertive player on both ends and impose his will on the game more consistently. Colbert should also be a better rebounder given his physical tools and would do well to develop a go-to move with his back to the basket.

Bottom Line:
Colbert has a tremendous combination of size, length, agility, athleticism, and skill. He has the potential to develop into an extremely versatile big game who can change the game both inside and out on either end of the court.

Notes

Travel Team: Team Final...

Final School List

Illinois Signed 09/28/2012

Miami (FL)
Seton Hall
Villanova