Zacharie Perrin, French power forward, to ball out with The Fighting Illini

Champaign, Illinois – Top international basketball phenom Zacharie Perrin has committed to the University of Illinois.

French forward Zacharie Perrin committed to the University of Illinois.
French forward Zacharie Perrin committed to the University of Illinois.  © Screenshot / Instagram / zperr1

The Fighting Illini have gone international to fill the front court for the 2022-23 season to defend their title as back-to-back Big Ten Conference champions.

On Monday, top international prospect Zacharie Perrin announced his commitment to the University of Illinois via Instagram over offers from UCLA, Texas, Florida, Memphis, and BYU.

The 6-foot-11 power forward who doesn't turn 18 until the end of August and will be one of the youngest athletes to play in college basketball next season.

Iowa's win over West Virginia raises eyebrows over rigged March Madness games
NCAA College Basketball Iowa's win over West Virginia raises eyebrows over rigged March Madness games

Perrin will enroll at Illinois following the FIBA U18 European Championship in Izmir, Turkey, which takes place from July 30 to August 7.

The unique lefty caught the eye of college coaches across the US with his large frame, huge wingspan, and scoring instincts that allow him to play with a level of offensive confidence unseen by inexperienced players.

Last season, the 17-year-old played for the Antibes Sharks of the LNB Pro B, France’s second division professional league. The star player averaged 21.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks in 19 games and shot 59% from the field.

He was named the MVP of the EuroLeague Basketball Adidas Next Generation Tournament in April, after averaging 17.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.

Perrin is Illinois' 12th scholarship player, and is expected to be the final addition to head coach Brad Underwood's roster.

Cover photo: Screenshot / Instagram / zperr1

More on Sports: