Illinois' Terrence Shannon Jr. Reinstated After Judge Grants Restraining Order

The University of Illinois basketball team will have back its leading scorer Sunday against Rutgers.

On Saturday, it was announced guard Terrence Shannon Jr., was reinstated to the team. He was suspended Dec. 28 because of rape charges in a incident that allegedly occurred in Kansas. Shannon was granted a preliminary injunction by a federal judge.

"We have received the court’s order. Effective immediately, Terrence Shannon Jr. has been reinstated to full status as a University student-athlete and will be available for basketball practice and competition," University of Illinois spokesperson Robin Kaler told reporters. "We will continue to review the Court Order and monitor the case."

Shannon took to social media to express his joy of returning to the court. He missed six games, with the Illini going 4-2.

He posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “I am grateful for the opportunity to rejoin my teammates and get back to work.”

I am grateful for the opportunity to re-join my teammates and get back to work.
— Terrence Shannon Jr (@Sn1per_T) January 19, 2024

Speaking with the media Saturday, Illini coach Brad Underwood said Shannon will come off the bench today against Rutgers. A Texas Tech transfer, Shannon is one of the top players in the Big Ten. He had two practices before returning for his first game.

"He has been away from the team in terms of team workouts," Underwood said. "He was allowed to take part in individual workouts, continue his conditioning, continue lifting and doing those sort of things with Fletch, which will help him."

Illinois Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. Charged With Rape, Suspended From Team

Shandel Richardson is the publisher of Illini Now. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com