Illinois is starting its B1G Tournament play Friday with a quarterfinal matchup vs. Indiana. Unfortunately, the Illini will be without a key performer for that game.

During pre-game activities for Friday’s game, guard Jacob Grandison was spotted in sweats and not participating in warmups. Fortunately, Grandison was spotted without his shoulder in a sling, hopefully pointing at progress toward a return to the court.

Grandison is averaging 10.3 points, 4 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. He’s also an efficient shooter, hitting 45.5% of his shots from the floor and 41% from 3-point range. The senior is also an 82.4% free throw shooter.

At this point, it does not make much sense for Illinois to rush Grandison back. The Illini earned a share of the regular-season B1G title with Grandison sidelined and should have a solid seeding locked up for the NCAA Tournament.

Hopefully, the extra rest will pay off for Grandison and Illinois in the big dance.