Former Illinois forward Coleman Hawkins has reportedly transferred to Kansas State, securing a significant name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal in the process. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, Nate Conley of Court XIV and Aaron Turner of Verus Basketball negotiated a $2 million NIL agreement for Hawkins at Kansas State, making it the largest NIL deal ever brokered by a collective in college basketball.
Hawkins, a graduate transfer, was highly sought after in the transfer portal, ranked as a 4-star player and the No. 22 overall prospect this offseason by 247Sports. His move to Kansas State comes after a standout season with the Fighting Illini, where he was a key player on the team.
During his time at Illinois, Hawkins led the team in several key statistical categories, including rebounds (6.1 per game), steals (1.5 per game), and blocks (1.1 per game). He was also second in assists (2.7 per game) and third in points (12.1 per game). The 6’10” forward from Sacramento, California, played a crucial role in helping Illinois achieve a 29-9 record and reach the Elite Eight in the NCAA tournament, their deepest run since 2005 when they made it to the national championship game.
Now joining a Kansas State team that finished 19-15 and missed the NCAA tournament last season, Hawkins is expected to make an immediate impact. Kansas State, under head coach Jerome Tang, made it to the Elite Eight in 2023, and the addition of Hawkins is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the roster. The Wildcats have been active in the transfer market, securing eight transfers, six of whom are rated as 4-star players. This has resulted in Kansas State having the 12th-best transfer class in college basketball, according to 247Sports.
Hawkins initially declared for the 2024 NBA draft but later decided to withdraw and enter the transfer portal. With one more season in a new environment at Kansas State, he has the opportunity to further develop his game and enhance his prospects for the 2025 NBA draft. Hawkins is expected to be one of Kansas State’s top players for the 2024-25 season, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
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