Illinois big man Kofi Cockburn to serve suspension over sold memorabilia

Illinois junior Kofi Cockburn will serve a three-game suspension to begin the season, per an announcement from the school. The suspension is part of the reinstatement process after Cockburn sold institutionally issued apparel and memorabilia in June.

Although the sales Cockburn made would be legal under current NIL rules, they occurred before July 1, when the new laws were passed.

“We are disappointed with the three-game suspension, because there were unprecedented factors and altered timelines related to his decision to ultimately withdraw from the NBA draft and return to school,” Illini coach Brad Underwood said in a statement. “Once Kofi had a full understanding of where he stood regarding the draft, he made the educated decision to return to school, work toward his degree and continue improving his game.

“That said, we understand and respect the NCAA’s decision in this matter, and we will move forward accordingly. As always, Kofi’s attitude and outlook remain upbeat and positive. He is focused on helping his teammates prepare for the season, and we can’t wait to have him rejoin us on the court.”

The 7-footer nearly averaged a double-double as a sophomore, with 17.7 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. He is expected to serve as the go-to option on this Illinois team following the loss of point guard Ayo Dosunmu to the NBA.

The Fighting Illini are set to open their season on Nov. 9 against Jackson State at home. Kofi Cockburn will miss that game, as well as the next two matchups against Arkansas State and Marquette due to the suspension. He will first be eligible to play on Nov. 22 when Illinois faces Cincinnati in Kansas City, Missouri.

The center helped to lead the Fighting Illini to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2013 this past season. They earned a No. 1 seed but were upset in the second round against Loyola Chicago.

Expectations are high entering 2021-22, as Illinois begins at No. 11 in the preseason AP poll. No. 6 Michigan and No. 7 Purdue are the only teams in the Big Ten with a higher ranking. All signs point to another successful season in Underwood’s fifth year at the helm.