Frosh Watkins won't be at Illinois this fall

Illinois coach Bruce Weber announced Tuesday that freshman guard Quinton Watkins won't enroll this fall.

The California native hasn't been approved by the NCAA's Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse.

The Illini hoped Watkins, regarded by Rivals.com as the nation's No. 90 recruit in the Class of 2007, would help fill the void created when shooting guard Jamar Smith was forced to redshirt.

Instead, Illinois must make do this season without a true shooting guard on scholarship.

Point guards Chester Frazier and Demetri McCamey could start together, but neither boasts a natural shooting stroke from 3-point range.

That leaves the door open for players such as junior walk-on Trent Meacham, the Champaign native who sank 35 of 87 3-point attempts last season.

"We have to have a couple guys establish themselves," Weber said last week. "It gives opportunities for a Trent Meacham. We'll probably move him to more of a '2.'

"We've always said he's one of the better shooters in the league. Now, do what you do. Shoot the ball. Spot up. Use screens."

South Dakota State transfer Steve Holdren, a classmate of Meacham's at Champaign Centennial High School, and junior small forward Calvin Brock also could see time at the shooting guard.

All of these players will get chances to prove themselves during Labor Day weekend when Illinois plays five games over four days in Canada.

One potential contributor who won't see action over the border is freshman forward Bill Cole. He injured his shoulder in Monday's practice and must rest for 2-3 weeks.