One of the breakout performers of the July open periods this past summer, Te’Jon Lucas announced his name onto the national scene with his exquisite passing skills and the ability to keep his team afloat against some of the more talented teams throughout the land. Instead of opting to play for a shoe sponsored program, Lucas stuck to his roots and was able to solidify himself as a quality, high-major recruit running with the Milwaukee Spartans bunch.

Young for his age as Lucas won’t turn 17 until next month, the senior guard continues to broaden his game and also grow much more fully into his body. He may not pass the immediate looks test, yet the 6-foot floor general doesn’t back down from a soul in the backcourt and tends to step up his game to another level whenever competing against the best of guys around.

Attending Washington High School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lucas declared himself as one of the best passers of the ball this past summer. He sees a play ahead with the ball and sets others up for easy looks at the basket. His jumper has continued to improve and while consistency is a need, the Spartans product can get on a roll and has a nifty runner in the lane that can cause for further headaches at the next level.

On Wednesday evening, in front of his friends, family, and media at the Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, Lucas decided to call off his recruitment by selecting Illinois as his future home next fall.

Beating out USC and Old Dominion for his services, Lucas spoke on why the Big 10 program was the place for him. “Illinois offers me the opportunity to play right away and has a style of play that fits what I do.”

While the commitment of Lucas to John Groce and his program might not seem like an earth-shattering get, when placed with talent around him, the Milwaukee native is someone that makes everyone better. He is a constant competitor, winner at heart, and someone that should grow fully and reach his potential during his four years in Champaign, which is a nice start for Illinois in receiving its first commitment with its 2016 recruiting class.