Illinois basketball is building for the future.
Four-star Class of 2026 recruit Ethan Brown announced his commitment Wednesday night to the Fighting Illini. The 6-foot-4 guard from Rolla (Mo.) becomes the first verbal commit in Illinois’ Class of 2026.
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“100% COMMITTED!! What a dream come true!” Brown posted on social media. “Thank you God, my family, my friends, and everyone else that helped me along this journey! Thank you to the Illinois coaching staff for believing in me! I-L-L”
Brown averaged 22.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 3.8 steals per game this past season at Rolla. He choose the Illini over offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Missouri, Southern Illinois, Northern Iowa, Missouri State, Saint Louis, Lindenwood and Southeast Missouri State.
In the Class of 2026, Brown is ranked as the No. 18 combo guard in the country, according to 247Sports. He’s ranked as the No. 144 overall prospect in the 247Sports Composite.
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The Illini finished 22-13 in 2024-25, earning a No. 6 seed in its fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament berth under coach Brad Underwood. The Illini lost to Kentucky in the second round.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Illinois basketball recruiting: Ethan Brown of Missouri commits
