Coleman Hawkins is planning on entering the transfer portal. However, the star big man says the reason is not what it appears on the surface.

Hawkins is a 4-year performer for Brad Underwood’s Illinois program, and he started 82 games over the past 3 seasons. Each of the past 2 seasons, Hawkins has been a key contributor including averaging 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.1 blocks while improving his 3-point shooting to 36.9% as a senior.

A 6-foot-10 forward, Hawkins is a truly versatile big man who also previously announced his plans to test the NBA Draft. Matt Norlander with CBS Sports reported Tuesday that Hawkins was planning to enter the transfer portal before the deadline while also going through the draft process.

Hawkins has since addressed the report and admitted he is planning to enter the portal. However, it is not a move to hit the open market for the Illini star.

“My intention is 100% to stay in the draft and I am fully focused on that process,” wrote Hawkins on social media. “I wanted to make sure I take every opportunity to protect myself in case of injury or any other unforeseen circumstances down the road.”

Hawkins indicated hitting the portal ahead of the May 1 deadline provides his best shot at protecting himself while maximizing his opportunities, even throughout the pre-draft process.

“I love the University of Illinois and am proud to be earning my degree here. I’m forever indebted to coach Underwood and loved playing for him throughout my college career,” Hawkins continued. “This was truly one of the best years of my life, and no matter what the future holds, Illinois will always be my home.”

While Hawkins has clarified his plans, Illinois is still undergoing the usual roster flux that has defined the college sports offseason. Luke Goode, Sencire Harris and Niccolo Moretti are some of the other Illini pieces that have hit the portal.