
Roger Powell Jr. was an undersized but high-IQ Illinois forward who turned quickness and touch into big moments
In the 2004-05 season, Roger Powell Jr. gave Illinois a tough, matchup-bending frontcourt weapon: 12.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while shooting 55% from the field, with coaches noting his ability to face up, drive, and hit the outside shot despite being undersized for power forward. He also delivered in the biggest spot, scoring 20 points to help send Illinois to the 2005 NCAA title game. If you value toughness, efficiency, versatility, and a player who rises in pressure moments, Powell is exactly that kind of fit.