BREAKING: Illinois lands commitment of 2025 four star center

Benson chose Illinois over Michigan and Virginia Tech. Naomi Benson, a four-star center in the class of 2025, has committed to Illinois. RELATED: Inaugural 247Sports women’s basketball rankings: Aaliyah Chavez headlines Top 75 for 2025. The 6-foot-3 frontcourt star from Streetsboro, Ohio committed to Illinois over Michigan and Virginia Tech. During a conversation with 247Sports, she explained this decision. “I chose Illinois because, when I first visited as a sophomore and when I went back up there, I fell more in love with the university,” she said. “I got a good feel for the coaches, as well. I also love the fact that there’s going to be a lot of talent there, so I know I’m going to get better everyday.”. Illini assistant coach DeAntoine “Cat” Beasley spearheaded Benson’s recruitment. He was able to develop a strong relationship with her throughout the process. “My lead recruiter was Coach Cat. He’s been recruiting me for a while,” Benson said. “He’s been there for a while and has been in contact with me these past three years. He kept in contact and developed a relationship with me.”.

The staff also sold Benson on the idea of her being used at the four spot due to the efficiency of her game. “They’re going to use me mainly at the four because I’m a very traditional player,” she explained. “They see me playing in transition, getting up and down and being a strong rebounder and defensive player.”. Benson is also high on the direction of the program. “I believe Illinois will sky-rocket. Coach Shauna Green has only been there for two years and they’re on the rise. I’m glad and blessed to have the opportunity to be apart of that,” she told 247Sports. 247Sports director of scouting Brandon Clay provided a scouting report on Benson:. “Benson has legitimate next level size on the interior. She sits right on the cusp of four-star, Top 100 status based on her play here in Chicago for Sports City Angels. Benson’s ability to run the floor in transition, finish around the rim and be a factor on both ends of the hardwood makes her one of the top 12-15 threats at the position nationally. Benson can continue working on the skill to face the basket and be effective in that aspect scoring the basketball.”.