In Tuesday's matchup against Michigan, Illini senior Coleman Hawkins once again showcased his impressive skills, leading his team to a resounding 97-68 victory. Hawkins' decision to return for his senior year is proving to be a wise one as his performances continue to earn him recognition as a potential NBA draft pick.

The 6-foot-10 big man delivered a standout performance, tallying 17 points on an efficient 6-for-10 shooting from the field. Hawkins also made his presence felt on the defensive end with two blocks and contributed significantly on the boards, registering five rebounds.

In the previous encounter between Illinois and Michigan, center Tarris Reed had caused some trouble for the Illini with 20 points on 8-of-10 shooting. However, Hawkins successfully limited Reed's impact this time, as the Michigan center struggled to find his rhythm, shooting just 5-for-14 from the field.

Hawkins displayed versatility in his game, connecting on three of his six attempts from beyond the arc. His ability to operate effectively within Michigan's zone defense was also noteworthy. Moreover, Hawkins showcased his playmaking skills, dishing out five assists throughout the game, both in half-court sets and on fastbreak opportunities.

Throughout the season, Hawkins has steadily answered questions regarding his NBA potential. One concern was his consistency as a scorer, but the Illini star has now reached double figures in 14 of his last 16 games. Additionally, Hawkins has demonstrated improvements in his three-point shooting, converting at a respectable 40 percent rate in Big Ten play. Furthermore, he has significantly reduced his turnover rate, a key aspect of his game that required adjustment.

Despite not being included in ESPN's 2024 NBA mock draft last month and missing out on The Athletic's early December NBA Draft big board, Hawkins is steadily gaining attention as a potential NBA selection. His performances on the court have highlighted his growth and development as a player, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him enter the conversation as the NBA draft approaches this summer.

As Hawkins continues to impress, he bolsters Illinois' campaign in the competitive Big Ten conference. With his leadership and consistent performances, the Illini are poised to make a strong push as they strive for success at both the conference and national level.

The NBA scouts and analysts will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Hawkins as he looks to solidify his position as an emerging talent in the college basketball landscape. If he maintains his current level of play and continues to make strides in his game, the Illini star could find himself as a coveted prospect with a promising future at the next level.