According to a report from ESPN Chicago's Scott Powers, the Illini have contacted Chicago's Simeon Career Academy head coach Robert Smith about the school's head coaching vacancy. Smith coaches one of the best prep teams in Chicago, and also happens to have the nation's top-ranked junior prospect on his team.
Smith won a state-record fifth state championship on Saturday with the top-ranked junior in the country in Jabari Parker, who lists Illinois as one of the schools he's considering. Kendrick Nunn, who was previously committed to Texas A&M, and Marquette recruit Steve Taylor also were key contributors.
Related: Illinois Coaching Search: Shaka Smart Likely To Stay At VCU, According To Report
Smith apparently has no interest in being just an assistant coach with the Illini, according to this report.
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