A deep backcourt ahead of the 2026‑27 season
The Illinois women's basketball program is counting on a stacked backcourt as it prepares for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign. Six experienced wings return, giving the Illini a breadth of talent that coaches hope will translate into consistent offensive production.
At the helm of the point guard position, Destiny Jackson brings a blend of speed and playmaking that should open up scoring opportunities for her teammates. Her leadership on the floor is expected to be a cornerstone of the team's tempo and transition game.
Adding to the mix, Divine Bourrage arrives as an incoming transfer who is projected to inject additional firepower into the offense. Her experience and scoring versatility are seen as key ingredients for a unit that aims to compete at the top of the Big Ten.
Maddie Webber, a sharpshooting veteran wing who transferred from Villanova before the 2025‑26 season, is poised to make an immediate impact. In her previous season she averaged 10.8 points per game while shooting 38.7 percent from three‑point range across 34 appearances.
Webber's ability to score at all three levels — inside, mid‑range and from beyond the arc — makes her a versatile threat. She ranked fourth on the team in scoring and second in three‑point percentage among players who came off the bench, underscoring her efficiency.
Coaches highlight her patience and shot selection, noting that her willingness to wait for the right look often leads to higher‑percentage shots. That trait, combined with her veteran presence, is expected to mentor younger players and stabilize the lineup.
The combination of returning wings, a dynamic point guard, and a proven shooter like Webber creates a backcourt that could be among the most formidable in the conference. If health permits, the Illini are positioned to contend for a deep run in the postseason.