Khloe Nicholson, a 6-foot-2 guard from Quincy (Ill.) High School, recently received an unexpected phone call from Illinois women’s basketball head coach Shauna Green. Despite having been in regular contact with the Illinois coaching staff for nearly a year, Nicholson was still caught off guard when Green officially extended her an offer for the Class of 2028.
Nicholson, who is already listed on the ESPN HoopGurlz watch list for the Class of 2028, has garnered attention from several high-major programs. However, the offer from Illinois stands out for Nicholson, as it brings her closer to home. “She was just like I need to stay here, it’s close to home and they’d love to have me,” Nicholson shared with Illini Inquirer.
The 6-foot-2 guard expressed how meaningful the offer was to her, especially given her roots in Illinois. “It means a lot. I mean, just being from Illinois and being close to home and my family being able to watch,” she added. For Nicholson, the prospect of playing for a team so close to her hometown holds significant personal value.
Her family’s support and proximity to her would be major advantages in her decision-making process, and this offer from Illinois strengthens that connection. It allows Nicholson the opportunity to play for a prominent program while still being near her loved ones, something that many athletes value highly in their recruitment.
This offer is just the latest in a growing list of high-major schools that have shown interest in Nicholson. As she continues her high school career, her future in basketball looks bright, and Illinois’ interest only adds to the excitement around her recruiting process.
