Simeon star Jabari Parker and head coach Robert Smith joined Thursday's Chicago Tribune Live to reflect on the success of their program after winning the 2012 state championship. They also voiced their opinions on the University of Illinois basketball program.
Smith, fresh off winning his fifth championship in eight years at Simeon, says he would consider joining the Fighting Illini coaching staff under John Groce if he was approached about the job. He is also optimistic that Groce can succeed in recruiting Chicago public league players if he works hard at building relationships right away.
Meanwhile, Parker did not rule out Illinois as a potential destination for college. But the No. 1 player in the class of 2013 admits that he will have to build a strong connection with Groce and his staff quickly in order for them to be a serious contender for his services.
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You can watch the entire interview as Smith and Parker go into greater detail on the topics below: