Bruce Weber was relieved of his duties as the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini basketball program just hours ago, but it appears the Illini may already have his successor lined up. If nothing else, they have a front runner.
According to Dan Wolken of The Daily, VCU head coach Shaka Smart is leaning towards becoming the next head coach at Illinois, if offered the position.
Sounds like Shaka is going to take Illinois or is leaning that way, from what I hear.
— Dan Wolken (@DanWolken) March 9, 2012
Smart led VCU to the Final Four a year ago and is seen as one of the hottest young coaching names around. It would certainly be a coup for Illinois to hire someone as buzz-worthy as Smart.
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