By Courtney Linehan

Senior writer

Illini basketball held a mini reunion Saturday, when the 2004-2005 squad was honored at Memorial Stadium.

Former Illinois guards and current NBA rookies, Luther Head and Deron Williams, were back on campus for the event, which drew a standing ovation from the fans in attendance as Illinois football took on Michigan State.

“I think they’re happy to be here, they’re excited,” head coach Bruce Weber said of the two former players who returned. “This was a great memory. College is a great time. I just hope they keep coming back.”

Head and Williams were the only former players able to attend. Forward Jack Ingram is playing in Cypris and center Nick Smith was home in Florida. Forward Roger Powell Jr. was preparing for camp with the Seattle Supersonics. Powell does not have a guaranteed spot on the team.

“This is his dream, and he wanted to go for it, so I hope it goes well for him,” Weber said.

But the Illini who did return were happy to be back on campus.

“It’s fun to come back, see these guys, see your teammates, your coaches, and just be back in Champaign,” Williams said.

The original plan was for the players, coaches and staff to be presented with their rings from last season, but the rings were not ready in time. Weber said he was happy Head and Williams were able to stop by between NBA rookie camp and preseason practices.

“I want them back because it’s good publicity, but also to be around our other guys,” Weber said. “I know Luther will keep coming back; I hope Deron will come back and then Dee and James down the road.”