It has been nearly two months since On3 Sports’ Joe Tipton predicted that Illinois would land international prospect Dame Sarr.
But much has changed in the time since, as the Illini’s roster has been almost entirely overhauled and Sarr has caught the eye of numerous other high-major programs, as well as the attention of pro scouts.
On April 8, ESPN released a full two-round mock draft (60 total picks), in which Sarr was nowhere to be found. But within days, the Italian wing was in the United States suiting up at the Nike Hoop Summit as a member of Team World – an event at which Sarr put on a clinic.
With his excellent performance against top-rated American talent in his age group, Sarr – who has been playing professionally for FC Barcelona – began entering NBA discussions.
In ESPN’s latest “Big Board” – which ranks the top 100 prospects in the upcoming NBA Draft – resident draft expert Jonathan Givony ranked Sarr at No. 31 overall.
Unlisted in ESPN’s previous mock draft only a few weeks ago, Sarr appears to have elevated his draft stock with his recent performance at the global showcase.
Ton of NBA eyes on Dame Sarr at Nike Hoop Summit practices, coming off a highly productive month playing for Barcelona in the ACB and Euroleague. The 18-year old Italian wing is draft eligible this year. Showed impressive two-way versatility in the scrimmage yesterday. pic.twitter.com/iDGD0BxLUx
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 11, 2025
Fortunately for coach Brad Underwood and the Illini, Sarr’s surge hasn’t put him out of reach. Saturday night was the deadline for players who aren’t immediately draft eligible – a category Sarr falls into – to announce their NBA intentions, and that window appears to have passed without a declaration from Sarr. It seems safe to say he has his sights set on a college career (however brief it may be).
That hardly means Sarr is a lock to sign with the Illini, but it does mean one fewer impediment in the program’s pursuit of him. Now Underwood can turn his focus to outdoing Sarr’s other college suitors.
