Neuqua Valley’s Mason Martin has made headlines by committing to the University of Illinois. This decision marks a significant milestone for the 6-foot-5 junior, who has quickly risen in prominence on the basketball scene. In just six months, Martin transitioned from an unknown athlete to a Big Ten prospect, showcasing remarkable skills that caught the attention of Illinois, his “dream school.”
Mason Martin’s Rise in Basketball
The journey to Illinois was both rapid and overwhelming for Martin. “All of it is super surreal,” he said, reflecting on his whirlwind recruitment. “Six months ago none of this was happening. Now I’m committed and locked in.”
Performance Highlights
Martin’s talent as a shooter has been a key component of his success. He has averaged over 19 points per game this season, contributing to Neuqua Valley’s impressive 16-1 record and ranking as the No. 9 team in the state. His shooting stats reinforce his prowess:
- Three-Pointers Made: 62
- Three-Pointer Attempts: 146
- Shooting Percentage: 42%
During the season opener against West Aurora, Martin scored a career-high 41 points, hitting 11 three-pointers. His performance in the DeKalb Holiday Tournament also stood out, averaging 23 points, including a championship game where he scored 34 points and made eight three-pointers.
Commitment to Illinois
The University of Illinois acted decisively in pursuing Martin, attending several of his games and practices. Martin felt a genuine connection with the coaching staff. “The relationship they built with me mattered,” he explained.
Martin expressed admiration for Illinois’ program, highlighting its facilities, coaching culture, and overall team environment. “It’s one I wanted to be a part of and keep helping build,” he noted. The combination of the program’s success, proximity to home, and his long-standing interest made for an easy decision.
Future Plans
As he prepares for his collegiate career, Martin has also discussed the possibility of his talented teammate, Cole Kelly, joining him at Illinois. “We have definitely talked about it, but it’s mostly just making jokes about it right now,” he said. “Being able to do that at the next level would be super fun.”
With his commitment to the University of Illinois, Mason Martin is poised to make a significant impact both on and off the court, continuing to elevate his game as he transitions to the Big Ten.
