CHAMPAIGN, IL: Illinois basketball recruiting has taken a global turn as the Illini emerge as frontrunners for Dame Sarr. The 6-foot-6 Italian guard currently plays for FC Barcelona in Spain’s Liga ACB. Sarr, a coveted 2025 recruit, recently impressed scouts with a career-high 21-point performance against Río Breogán. He shot 8/10 from the field and 3/5 from three in just 23 minutes. The 18-year-old weighs 151 lbs (68 kg) and ranks among top international prospects for future NBA drafts. College Basketball
Recruitment Update
Illinois basketball recruiting leads the pack for Sarr despite competition from Arizona and Creighton. His connection to Illinois strengthens through his former FC Barcelona teammate, current Illini star Kasparas Jakucionis.
“Illinois appeals to Sarr because of their success with international players,” said a source close to his recruitment. “Their development of European talent has caught his attention.”
The Big Ten program’s aggressive NIL strategy and proven player development have positioned them ahead in this recruitment battle.
Player Profile
Sarr combines ideal guard size with fluid ball-handling and shooting skills. His playmaking ability shines through his 7.0 assists per game average in U18 EuroBasket competition. His length allows him to defend multiple positions effectively.
Scouts note inconsistencies in his three-point shooting (29% in U18 play, 28.3% in ACB). His defensive instincts show promise, though he sometimes overcommits on steal attempts.
“Dame has exceptional guard skills and basketball IQ,” noted one international scout. “He competes effectively against professionals in Europe at a young age.”
Some compare Sarr to former Illini standout Terrence Shannon Jr., with unique potential as a two-way wing.
Illinois Basketball Recruiting Fit
Head coach Brad Underwood’s Illinois basketball recruiting success with international talent makes this match ideal. The Illini feature two foreign-born leading scorers: Lithuanian Kasparas Jakucionis (15.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists) and Croatian Tomislav Ivisic (12.6 points, 7.7 rebounds).
Underwood’s motion offense needs versatile wings who initiate plays. Sarr’s vision complements Illinois’ drive-and-kick approach. His size creates mismatches against smaller guards, a strategy Underwood used effectively with Shannon Jr. last season.
Illinois’ defensive scheme requires positional flexibility that Sarr’s frame and agility provide. Assistant coach Tim Anderson would focus on improving Sarr’s defensive discipline and awareness.
Sarr would likely start alongside Jakucionis, creating one of college basketball’s tallest backcourts. This potential pairing might influence other recruits, including five-star forward Cameron Boozer.
Development Areas
Illinois basketball recruiting staff would address two key challenges with Sarr:
- Shooting consistency – His three-point percentage needs improvement. Shooting coach Adam Fletcher would refine his technique, as previously done with Jakucionis.
- Physical development – At 151 lbs, Sarr must add strength for Big Ten play. Strength coach Mike Boynton’s program, which added 15 lbs to Ivisic last year, would be crucial.
Future Timeline
Sarr will likely decide after completing his season with FC Barcelona. Recruiting analysts favor Illinois to secure his commitment.
Landing Sarr would mark another Illinois basketball recruiting victory with international talent. His potential as a lottery pick depends on improving shot selection and defensive discipline. Under Underwood’s guidance, Sarr could anchor a championship-caliber roster while enhancing Illinois’ reputation as a destination for European talent.
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