The Illinois Fighting Illini focused on four-star Luke Goode during the high school season and didn’t let up during the shutdown due to the NCAA mandated recruiting dead period. This consistent effort and energy recruiting him led to a commitment on Friday evening.

The 6-foot-5 Goode was set to play with Indy Heat in the Nike EYBL on the AAU circuit, and completed a very solid junior year at Homestead High School in Fort Wayne, where he led his team to a 16-9 record and a spot in the sectional finals.

Currently the No. 97 ranked prospect in the 247Sports Composite Ranking for the class of 2021, Goode brings solid size and shot making to the table, and is more than just a shooter.

"I have committed to Illinois, Goode informed 247Sports.

A big key for Illinois landing him was the relationship he built not only with assistant Stephen Gentry, but Head Coach Brad Underwood as well.

"I committed because I’ve been their No. 1 guy since day 1," explained Goode. "Coach Gentry and Coach Underwood have made me a priority for their program and that is the program I wanted to play for."

Goode continued, "I’m excited for the future with Coach Underwood and I am confident that we can take the Illinois program to another level with the other recruits."

This is the first piece to the puzzle for the Illini in 2021. They are looking to follow up a strong 2020 class with another one in 2021, and Goode brings them a wing who can do a little bit of everything on the offensive end.

Goode has pretty good length, is a good passer, a tough kid, and an solid shot maker as well. He will need to continue to get stronger and focus on the defensive end as he moves to college, but he shined on many levels, and picked the Illini over a host of high-major interest and offers.