Ranking the best Big Ten basketball players at midway point
3. Terrence Shannon Jr., G, Illinois
Shannon Jr. has had for most of January, but when he is on the court, he is one of the most explosive guards in the conference. In 15 games this season, Shannon has averaged 20.1 points, joining Zach Edey and Jahmir Young as the only Big Ten players scoring over 20 points per game. Shannon shoots the ball at 47.6% from the field and 35.9% from 3-point range as a dynamic scorer who can attack the rim and also get hot from deep. The 6-foot-6, fifth-year guard also averages 4.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, one block and one steal. The Fighting Illini have largely flown under the radar in the first half of the season but could make noise in the Big Ten down the stretch as long as Shannon Jr. stays on the court.
