The rumor that men’s basketball point guard Dee Brown might be wearing a red shirt instead of an orange one this season has been cast aside.

Although he had been hampered by multiple shin problems since the end of the 2003-2004 season, it appears Illinois’ catalyst will be back at full strength.

After being forced into inactivity to allow his injuries to heal, Brown has come back with the team and has been participating in all conditioning workouts.

“I’m in great shape, physically and mentally,” Brown said. “This time last year I wasn’t running like I am now.”

Brown stayed focused as headlines across the country stated the possibility of a year off. He understood that the only way to beat this thing was to give in and take it easy for a while.

“I didn’t even read any of the papers, but I had people coming up to me and asking me about the injury and it showed me how much people appreciate my game,” Brown said. “It’s motivating for me because I see the expectations and the type of team we have for this year.”

For an athlete that is go-go-go for the entirety of a game, the time on the sideline actually might have helped improve Brown’s overall game. He said he was able to learn more about teammates as well as himself.

“As I sat out, I just tried to get stronger,” Brown said, “I watched the game and tried to learn a few things. I learned how to play slower – it was never in my repertoire to play slower; I was always a fast player. But now I have the ability to change speeds, and it really helps my game out.”