Terrence Shannon Jr. taking Illinois to court, seeks reinstatement [Update]

Updated Jan. 9: Terrence Shannon Jr. is seeking legal action against the University of Illinois which would allow him to return to the basketball team while facing a rape charge.

His attorney Mark Goldenberg told 247 Sports that they plan to file a motion to put a restraining order on the school to try and persuade them to reinstate him to the team while the legal process takes place.

“TJ has constantly maintained his innocence. All he wants is a fair process and we don’t believe he’s gotten that yet,” Goldenberg said to 247 Sports.

Illinois basketball guard Terrence Shannon Jr. was charged with rape in Douglas County, Kansas, due to an alleged incident that occurred in September when the Illinois football team was in town for a game.

He was suspended from all activities, effective immediately, the school announced on Thursday. They made sure to include, as well, that Shannon was not in Kansas representing the university on official business or that he was not a member of the university’s official travel party.

“The University and DIA have shown time and time again that we have zero tolerance for sexual misconduct,” Athletic Director Josh Whitman said in a statement. “At the same time, DIA policy affords student-athletes appropriate levels of due process based on the nature and severity of the allegations.”

Shannon traveled back to Kansas after the warrant for his arrest was issued, and then returned to Illinois after posting bail. Illinois was aware of the incident when it occurred in September, but said they did not have enough evidence or information to take action.

So far this season, Shannon is averaging 33 minutes, 21.7 points per game ( second in the Big 10) and 4.5 rebounds. He transferred to Illinois from Texas Tech after the 2021-2022 season. His suspension at this time is indefinite.