In June, the Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics announced the Illinois newcomer of the year for both men’s and women’s sports.
Men: J.C. Davis, football
The New Mexico transfer made a name for himself during his first year as an Illini. Davis started in all 13 games the Illini played in 2024 and was a key part for their offensive line. His arrival coincided with the Illini’s best season in recent years.
Davis earned All-Big Ten third team honors from the coaches and an All-Big Ten honorable mention from the media.
Davis was the left tackle who played a huge role in protecting Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer all season.
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Additionally, Davis played a key role in Illinois’ victory over South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl by allowing zero pressures.
According to the PFF, he ranked seventh for pass-blocking tackles.
Women: Abria Smith, track and field
The Illinois native continues to add to her growing list of accomplishments. She was a two time All-American for the indoor and outdoor season for the shot put event.
At the indoor Big Ten Championship, Smith took home fourth place and a new school record of 17.87m. However, later in the indoor season, she was also an NCAA qualifier and placed seventh for the shot put. With her 17.99m throw, she set the new program record.
Smith only continued to raise the bar as the outdoor season progressed. She was the Big Ten Champion for the shot put event. She then became a qualifier for the NCAA championship where she was the runner up with a throw of 18.85m.
Her silver medal marks the highest finish in the event in Illinois track and field history.
David and Smith are two examples of newcomers to Illinois who made huge success and were assets to their teams.
@lauram0131
