Demetri McCamey: If He Leaves For The 2010 NBA Draft, What's Next?

At first, it was just a dream.

Then, it became a slight possibility.

Finally, it turned into reality; McCamey is entering the 2010 NBA Draft and is serious about staying in.

So, how will the Illinois Basketball program bounce back from such a detrimental loss if he does go?

Who will take over the point guard position?

Who will be our leader?

And the question that will linger with me the longest: Will we be contenders for a Big Ten title?

McCamey was the sole-factor is driving Illinois to success this year. He was the shooter; the passer; and most importantly, the leader.

The 6'3" point guard averaged 15.1 points, 7.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals during the coarse of the season.

It will definitely make next year more interesting if McCamey leaves, because there is no way to know how they will respond.

It will take great leadership and determination from the remaining players to be as successful as they are hoping; contending for a Big Ten title.

If McCamey leaves they will be a giant question mark of who will start at the point guard position next year.

There are several candidates for this job: Joseph Bertrand, Brandon Paul, Jereme Richmond, Jeffrey Jordan, or D.J. Richardson.

Bertrand is an outstanding player who couldn't play this year due to injuries. He is the 'fan favorite' to emerge as the starter.

In my opinion, Paul is right behind him. He is very athletic, fast, and has amazing rebounding abilities for his size which reminds me of former Illinois basketball player, Chester Frazier.

Next, and possibly the most important thing, is the question looming of who the leader will be.

I think that that responsibility will have to be on the shoulders of Mike Tisdale and Mike Davis.

They both are returning for their senior season and are expected to play at a very high level. So it only makes sense to have them be the ones who lead the team success.

As for contending for a Big Ten title, I am going to be optimistic and say they are still a legitimate contender.

They have all the tools it takes; young, prospering talent and experience as well. They need a leader for this team. We are still capable but will be young in the front court which could hurt them, but I believe Mike Tisdale and Mike Davis can make up for that.

Illinois faithful-Demetri McCamey leaving could definitely hurt us, but don't give up on what remains. If Bruce Weber can do his job during the off-season, they'd be a strong threat for any team.