Ex-Teammates Marcus Domask, Coleman Hawkins React To Terrence Shannon's Acquittal On Rape Charges

Anthony Pasciolla | Jun 13, 2024

Mar 28, 2024; Boston, MA, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Terrence Shannon Jr. (0) dribbles the ball against the Illinois Fighting Illini n the semifinals of the East Regional of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports / Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

Ex-Illinois Fighting Illini guard Terrence Shannon Jr. can once again turn his attention to the NBA Draft after he was found not guilty of rape charges, stemming from allegations last September in Lawrence, Kan.

It didn't take long for reactions from fans and teammates to pour in on social media with mixed opinions on the outcome.

Former Illinois forward Marcus Domask was one of the first to speak out following the verdict, sharing, "MOOD [fire emoji] Go be great in the league family [heart emoji]." Domask's application for another year of collegiate eligibility was denied, leading him to enter the 2024 NBA Draft.

MOOD 🔥🔥 Go be great in the league family❤️ pic.twitter.com/YjMUYrlpJL

— Marcus Domask (@marcusdomask) June 13, 2024

Ex-Illini teammate Coleman Hawkins had much to say about the case being settled, sharing a heartfelt message on X.

"Not celebrating because I know who my guy is… imagine playing in front of sell out crowds with people saying the craziest things to you and you’re innocent," Hawkins wrote. "Extremely proud of my guy to be able to block out all that noise and compete at an extremely high level."

Not celebrating because I know who my guy is… imagine playing in front of sell out crowds with people saying the craziest things to you and you’re innocent. Extremely proud of my guy to be able to block out all that noise and compete at an extremely high level. 💯🙏🏽🤑 pic.twitter.com/S13jLCMGnK

— Coleman Hawkins (@colehawk23) June 13, 2024

Shannon, who was an All-American last season, is projected as a first-round pick a few weeks from now in the NBA Draft. He had spoken little publicly since he was suspended for six games from late December until mid-January, but now has the freedom to do so. The public view is split, as some are thrilled Shannon can now live out his dream on the biggest stage.

Hell yes!!!!!!!!! Thank you for covering this for all of us, you did an amazing job. TSJ go be great🧡💙

— Jennifer (@jenn7997) June 13, 2024

after what he’s been through and how many people doubted him, I hope everyone around him continues to lift him up and help him finish the dream he’s been chasing. Go be great, TJ! ❤️🖤

— Ariana (@aerienari) June 13, 2024

Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor for Illini Now. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or on Instagram @anthony.pasciolla.