Look For a Better Decision-Making McCamey in 11'

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Illinois Fighting Illini might open up the season as one of the best teams in the NCAA. Thank Demetri McCamey for coming back, and Head Coach Bruce Weber for surrounding him with hot young talent.

But let's be clear here, McCamey wasn't always the favorable player in late game situations. Do you remember when Illinois played Utah and McCamey turned the ball over seven times?

The Illini ended up losing the game by two, and McCamey finished with three assist, and seven turnovers. How about the time McCamey lost his head during the Wisconsin game where they were blown out.

During both of those games, and throughout the season McCamey displayed poor decision-making. On the season, McCamey turned the ball over almost four times a game, 3.4 to be exact.

However, this upcoming season the Illini senior guard will be a better decision maker. Last year, McCamey wanted to do too much because he lacked enough talent to keep his team competitive.

You would often see him try to force the offense in late-game situations, or whenever the Illini needed a bucket.

This season, the Illini brought in Jereme Richmond, Meyers Leonard, and Crandell Head to help McCamey. The Fighting Illini also retained Mike Davis, Mike Tisdale, and D.J Richardson from last year's squad.

However, Richmond will be the recruit to open-eyes and will most likely be on the end of many McCamey assist. According to McCamey, Richmond is the Illini's Evan Turner. He can play multiple positions and should rack up a lot of stats for the Illini.

Not only will added talent help his decision-making, but the summer experience will help as well. McCamey was present to the LeBron James Skills Academy were he was paired with many other top players in the country.

An experience like that is favorable for any player looking for an edge. McCamey is a key asset to the Fighting Illini.

Coach Weber embraces one of the top guards in the country. Last season, McCamey improved his assist drastically from a year ago. He averaged 7.1 assist, compared to the 4.1 acquired his sophomore year.

With the betterment of his game, I expect McCamey to be a far better decision maker then he was last year. He will strive with the added talent, cut back on turnovers, and possibly lead his team through the challenges of the NCAA Tournament.

The Illini returned all five starters from last year's NIT team, but brought in stellar freshman. The expectations are high for the Illini, and Illinois' fans cannot wait until the season tips-off.

For more CoHoops news follow us on Twitter (@Collegiate_Hoop) or subscribe via email

2011 College Basketball Recruiting Report: Illinois Fighting Illini

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

The Fighting Illini is led by senior guard Demetri McCamey. He has done a good job thus far, however, after this season he will be graduating. The same thing applies to the other senior players on the roster. Not to mention, some of the freshman are one-and-done talent.

So, the recruits are starting to show importance. The Illini pulled in a great recruiting class this year and is looking to continue the trend.

Here is a look at the Illini recruiting class thus far.

G Tracy Abrams 6'1''

Abrams before his college career is over will be a point guard. He is now listed at shooting guard but has the ability to play the one. He is a very physical guard and has the ability to stay aggressive on both ends of the floor.

F Mycheal Henry 6'6''

Henry has progressed a lot this past year. He is a great wing threat with a lot of upside. He has a great jump-shot that he uses to perfection. The thing that sets him apart from other guards is his ability to stretch the defense. Henry has the best jump shot in the 2011 recruiting class. His jumper is great and it doesn't take too much room for him to let it off. Some go as far as comparing his jumper to Ray Allen's.

C Nnanna Egwu

Egwu will be a great compliment to the Illini frontcourt. He is a great post up option. He showcases soft hands in the post and the ability to face up. Not to mention, his 6-foot-10 frame allows him to lock down on defense as well. He is always around the rim and his long arms allow him to grab a lot of rebounds.

Considering

*G Bruce Baron

Baron could stay in his hometown of Illinois and play for the Illini next season.

*G Chasson Randle

The 6-foot-2 guard narrowed his college list and Illinois was amongst the top schools. Randle is definitely in sight of the Illini.

G Josh Oglesby

Before he got his name out there he was ready to commit. However, he didn't and his recruitment is wide open.

*F Devin Langford

When Langford told scouts his top three, the Illini was amongst them.

F Mike Shaw

You would think Shaw had a lot of interest in Illinois because it's his hometown school; but he has shown little interest. Although, Illini did offer and he made an unofficial visit.

For more CoHoops news follow us on Twitter (@Collegiate_Hoop) or subscribe via email