Illinois Reopens 2026 Recruiting With Zavier Zens Visit

The Illini are taking a closer look at the Wisconsin native after losing a key 2026 recruit.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:13pm

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After seemingly closing the door on 2026 recruiting, the Illinois Illini have reopened that door and are now focusing on three-star prospect Zavier Zens, a 6-foot-7 small forward from Wisconsin. Zens, who recently decommitted from Northern Iowa, will visit Illinois on April 12 as the Illini look to add another wing player to their 2026 class.

Why it matters

The Illini lost a key 2026 recruit in Keaton Wagler, who is expected to depart for the NBA. This has prompted Illinois to reevaluate their 2026 class and take a closer look at Zens, who fits the mold of the type of players Illinois typically targets - a versatile wing with size and shooting ability.

The details

Zens, a three-star prospect, has a powerful 215-pound frame and an automatic long-distance jumper. While not an elite athlete, he uses his size and length to get to the basket and finish at a solid rate. Defensively, his physical tools give him a high floor, though he may face some early hurdles adjusting to the college game. Illinois doesn't have a true wing in their 2026 class yet, so Zens could fill that role, though playing time may be limited initially depending on the status of other wing players like Andrej Stojakovic and Jake Davis.

  • Zens recently decommitted from Northern Iowa in late March after the departure of head coach Ben Jacobson.
  • Illinois offered Zens shortly after his decommitment from Northern Iowa.
  • Zens has scheduled visits to Illinois on April 12, as well as Utah State on April 10 and Wisconsin on April 13.

The players

Zavier Zens

A 6-foot-7, 215-pound three-star small forward prospect from Wisconsin who recently decommitted from Northern Iowa.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the Illinois Illini men's basketball team.

Keaton Wagler

A key 2026 recruit for Illinois who is expected to depart for the NBA.

Quentin Coleman

A four-star guard who recently decommitted from Wake Forest and is now being recruited by Illinois.

Ben Jacobson

The former head coach of Northern Iowa, who recently accepted the head coaching job at Utah State.

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What’s next

Illinois will host Zavier Zens for a visit on April 12 as they look to add him to their 2026 recruiting class.

The takeaway

Illinois' decision to reopen their 2026 recruiting efforts and pursue Zavier Zens signals their continued commitment to building a versatile, well-rounded roster. Zens' size, shooting ability, and defensive potential make him an intriguing target, though playing time may be limited initially given the Illini's current wing depth.