Illinois senior Terrence Shannon Jr. declared for the 2023 NBA Draft on Wednesday. It’s not immediately clear if he plans to maintain his college eligibility, but he has another year to use if he wants it.

A Chicago native, Shannon spent his first 3 seasons of college ball at Texas Tech before transferring to Illinois. In his lone season with the program, he was a first-team All-Big Ten selection after averaging a team-best 17.2 points.

“I’ve been truly blessed to be a part of such a prestigious program,” Shannon wrote in a message shared on social media. “All of you have made my experience here second to none! From the fans who supported the team, the staff at school and the arena, and especially the OrangeKrush – I love all of you!

“I’ve worked countless hours and prepared myself for this,” he continued. “I thank God that this moment I’ve worked so hard and prayed even harder for has finally arrived!”

During his 3 seasons with the Red Raiders, Shannon was a major contributor, averaging 11 points, 3.6 boards, 1.4 assists, and 1 steal in 25 minutes a game.

With the Illini, he stepped into a featured role and showed the ability to be a reliable scorer. Shannon averaged a career-best 17.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in 32 minutes a night. He started 30 of his 31 appearances and shot 44% from the field and 32% from the 3-point line.

ESPN’s latest mock draft has Shannon projected to be taken in the second round with the 40th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. NIL efforts could factor in if that were to be the case, as last year’s 40th overall pick in the draft signed a two-way contract. A two-way player this season in the NBA earned half of the rookie minimum salary ($508,891).

Of course, money might not be the only motivating factor; Shannon just wrapped his fourth season of college ball. He might simply think it’s time to move on.

Coach Brad Underwood has been active in the transfer portal so far, netting commitments from transfer wings Marcus Domask (Southern Illinois) and Justin Harmon (Utah Valley).