Less than a year after his arrival in the U.S., Finnish forward Miikka Muurinen has emerged as a standout talent in the class of 2026. At 6-foot-10, Muurinen’s impressive performance at the Peach Jam highlighted his potential. Playing for the Brad Beal Elite 16U team, he averaged 18 points and four rebounds per game, shooting 62% from the field and 50% from three-point range (14-for-28 over six games). His standout game was against the Florida Rebels, where he scored 33 points, shot 7-for-10 from deep, and added four blocks.
Lety Vasconcelos, a 6-foot-7 transfer center from Baylor, is a hard-to-miss presence in the Ubben Basketball Complex. She roamed the gym, trying to burn off nervous energy before her first media interaction. Vasconcelos’ imposing stature, combined with her length, makes her an ideal fit for Illinois head coach Shauna Green’s vision of a rim protector and interior force. Vasconcelos has the physical attributes of a dominant college basketball center but still needs to unlock her full potential.
Vasconcelos was a top recruit in the Class of 2023, ranked 36th overall by ESPN HoopGurlz, and played at Montverde Academy. Her transfer to Illinois was driven by Green’s need for size and physical presence in the team. Despite her limited playing time at Baylor, where she averaged 1.1 points and 2.1 rebounds in 17 games, Green sees potential in Vasconcelos, understanding that she is still developing as a college basketball player.
The Illinois coaching staff is focused on conditioning for Vasconcelos and 6-foot-6 freshman Hayven Smith, crucial for their fast-paced playing style. Green acknowledges the time required for Vasconcelos’ development, similar to the process with Camille Hobby, a transfer from North Carolina State, last season. Vasconcelos has shown significant progress in conditioning, a crucial factor for her ability to play effectively.
Green’s staff emphasizes continuous improvement. Vasconcelos is coachable, listens, and applies feedback diligently. The primary focus is on defensive development, particularly in understanding ball-screen coverage. Green is optimistic about Vasconcelos’ growth and believes her potential will manifest over time.
Vasconcelos herself understands the importance of conditioning and is committed to improving her fitness. She appreciates the gradual process of adjustment to Illinois’ program and expectations. The team benefits from additional summer practices and a trip to Europe for bonding and tune-up games, providing valuable experience before the fall season.
Vasconcelos’ decision to join Illinois was influenced by her connection with the coaching staff, particularly Green and assistant coach Calamity McEntire, whom she has known since high school. Sophomore guard Cori Allen, a former teammate at Montverde, also played a role in Vasconcelos’ commitment by highlighting the supportive culture and consistency of the Illinois program.
Vasconcelos values the personal care and attention from the Illinois coaching staff, which reassured her during the decision-making process. The staff’s genuine concern for players’ well-being and open-door policy for addressing personal issues resonated with her, making Illinois an appealing choice.
On the court, Vasconcelos aims to leverage her size to provide paint protection, secure rebounds, and finish easy buckets. Her athleticism at 6-foot-7 sets her apart in women’s college basketball, and the coaching staff is dedicated to maximizing her potential. With three years of eligibility remaining, Vasconcelos has the opportunity to develop significantly.
Vasconcelos’ initial weeks at Illinois have been marked by growth in both conditioning and defensive skills. She has improved her timing for blocking shots and her overall mobility, working closely with strength and conditioning coach Kilee Fletcher. The emphasis on movement and fitness is crucial for the team’s fast-paced play style.
Green plans to use a by-committee approach for the five spot, incorporating players like Kendall Bostic and Brynn Shoup-Hill alongside Vasconcelos. The rotations will depend on each player’s readiness and ability to contribute effectively. Green expects all the players to make an impact, emphasizing the need for collective readiness.
In summary, Miikka Muurinen’s rise as a Finnish breakout star and Lety Vasconcelos’ potential as a transfer center highlight the bright future for Illinois basketball. Muurinen’s impressive performance at the Peach Jam and Vasconcelos’ progress in conditioning and defensive skills underscore the significant contributions they can make to their respective teams. With dedicated coaching and supportive environments, both players are poised for success in their collegiate careers.
