In a surprising turn of events, Illinois basketball sensation Terrence Shannon Jr. was nabbed by the Minnesota Timberwolves as the 27th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft held in Brooklyn on Wednesday night.
Minnesota Timberwolves Score Big with Terrence Shannon Jr.
At 23, Shannon emerged as a prolific scorer, averaging 23.04 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game last season. His stellar performance led the Fighting Illini to the NCAA Elite Eight. However, Shannon’s draft stock plummeted after he faced rape accusations. Following a June trial, Shannon was acquitted, paving the way for him to be named the University of Illinois’ Male Athlete of the Year and to have his No. 0 jersey retired by the school.
As the Timberwolves welcomed their new star, social media buzzed with reactions. The Illini account with the Big Ten Network highlighted Shannon’s comfort at Target Center, noting his 40-point game in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals. Shannon’s 34.0-point average in the tournament showcased his scoring prowess.
Shannon’s draft night party in Chicago was a spectacle. Hosted by Chicago Sky player Angel Reese, the event saw Illinois coach Brad Underwood and former coach Chris Beard donning Shannon-themed attire. As Minnesota’s call came through, Shannon’s joy was palpable. Surrounded by friends and family, his smile beamed as he received congratulations amidst a flurry of camera flashes.Timberwolves Clips shared a highlight reel of Shannon’s dynamic gameplay, dubbing him “NBA-ready.” The account praised Shannon’s transition skills, on-ball defense, and shooting capabilities, predicting he would be a great asset off the bench for Minnesota.
Jeremy Werner from Illini Inquirer emphasized Shannon’s historical significance as the first Illinois player drafted in the first round since Meyers Leonard in 2012. Werner lauded Shannon’s defensive skills and physical presence, predicting he would thrive in a team led by Anthony Edwards aiming for an NBA championship.
Commentators hailed Shannon’s selection at No. 27 as a steal, especially after Minnesota traded up to pick Kentucky’s Rob Dillingham at No. 8. This double whammy is seen as a game-changer for the Timberwolves, who reached the Western Conference finals in 2024.
NBAdraftpoint praised the Timberwolves for snagging the draft’s best scorer to pair with Edwards, forecasting a formidable duo for the next decade. Charlie Walton from SB Nation’s Canis Hoopus echoed this sentiment, predicting an immediate offensive impact from Dillingham and a promising future for Shannon with his raw defensive skills and rim-running potential.
According to Spotrac, Shannon’s rookie contract could be worth $13.1 million. Illini Inquirer detailed his earnings: $2.63 million in his first season, $2.76 million in the second, and team options for $2.8 million and $5.1 million in the following years.
Shannon’s journey to the NBA, fraught with challenges and redemption, promises an exciting chapter for the Timberwolves and their fans.
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