Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood has built his reputation on a relentless eye for overlooked talent, a strategy that has turned modest high‑school prospects into college standouts.
The program’s track record includes the rise of Kofi Cockburn, a four‑star recruit who evolved into a two‑time All‑American, and the rare achievement of Andrej Stojakovic, the only McDonald’s All‑American to wear an Illinois jersey under Underwood’s guidance.
A Fresh Five‑Star Target
The Illini recently extended a scholarship to Moussa Kamissoko, a 6‑foot‑8 wing from New York who sits at No. 7 in the 2027 national rankings.
Kamissoko’s game blends elite physical tools with a fluid shooting stroke, making him a versatile threat on both ends of the floor. While he still needs to add bulk and polish his long‑range consistency, his defensive instincts and ability to finish with either hand have already drawn comparisons to top‑tier prospects.
His recruitment underscores a broader pattern: Illinois may not chase the highest‑rated names, but when it does, those players often exceed expectations, as seen with Cockburn and the program’s history of uncovering hidden gems like Keaton Wagler.