Heaven ClarkNo. 26 overall in the 2022 class, Illinois has committed, he tells 247Sports.
The 6ft 3, 200lb Montverde (Fla.) Academy point guard committed Brad Underwood and the Illini over its other finalists, including Tennessee, Louisville, Maryland, USC and Washington.
“Why not Illinois?” he said why he chose Illinois.
“They are a proven successful program. Brad lets his guards play, they have a proud tradition. Tim Anderson is like an uncle to me and they have one of the best strength and conditioning coaches in the business, Adam Fletcher. Illinois just made more sense to me and what I’m trying to do.”
Clark was released from Kentucky in early March and since resuming recruitment he has learned quickly and is impressed with his future coaching staff.
“They all like each other very much and they work well together. They’re good at player development, they’re really cool off the pitch and I feel like they’re going to bring out the best in me every day!”
The composite five-starter has long been one of the most experienced and creative guards in the country, and while he will influence the offensive end, he says he will bring his ground-level mentality to the team.
“The desire to win,” he said. “Competition, giving everything every day. everyday boys.”
Clark chose the college path, spurning the options of alternative career paths and offering his insight into why he was sticking with the college path.
“My mom and dad are both educated parents, they preach the importance of graduation and education,” Clark said. “They are my role models, they are my role models. I want to be parents like them who sacrifice themselves for their children every day.”
Clark is Illinois’ fourth high school engagement in the Class of 2022, joining three four-star engagements Ty Rodgers, Jayden EppsSincere Harris and a transmission in Dain Dianja.