Illinois the spot for Rukavina

Wheeling senior Lana Rukavina, a three-time Daily Herald all-area selection, has verbally committed to attend the University of Illinois and play basketball for first-year coach Jolette Law.

Rukavina's first point this winter will be the 1,000th of her career for the Wildcats.

The 6-foot-3 senior center has played three seasons under varsity coach Shelly Wiegel and has helped lead the Wildcats to three straight 20-win seasons.

"Lana made her commitment last spring," Wiegel said. "She does quite a bit with us in the summer, but then she goes to Croatia. She wanted to make decision before she left the country so she could enjoy the summer in Croatia."

Rukavina averaged 13 points and 7.6 rebounds last winter while handing out 2.4 assists.

She has also collected 620 rebounds and 140 blocks in her career.

Rukavina was on the Illini campus two years ago when the Wildcats played in the University of Illinois team camp.

"She really enjoyed meeting the people there and liked the school," Wiegel said. "Even though the staff changed (Rukavina was recruited by former coach Theresa Grentz), Lana still felt like it was a good fit for her with the new staff."