Groce Lands Top Recruiting Class For Fighting Illini

After just missing out on an NCAA Tournament berth last season, expectations are high for this year's Fighting Illini squad. But before the season even begins, the talk first centers on the highly-touted recruiting class that coach John Groce has landed.

High school seniors Jalen Coleman-Lands, Aaron Jordan and D.J. Williams are new additions to the program while junior college sophomore Darius Paul officially rejoins the Fighting Illini.

Experts around the country are taking notice of what's happening in Champaign. According to fightingillini.com:

Illinois has recruited a national top-15 class, checking in at No. 8 by 247Sports, No. 11 by Scout and No. 12 by Rivals. This is Groce's second top-25 class in his three seasons in charge of the Illini program.

Remember, Illinois tips off this season Friday night here against Georgia Southern. Coverage starts at 7 p.m. here on WROK. Here's a deeper look at the players who will join the Fighting Illini squad next year: