5 O'Clock Shadow

- For Paul Klee's story on Chester Frazier from October 2007, click here.

- For today's blog on Senior Day, click here.

- For our video story on Trent Meacham, click here.

Sunday's game against No. 9 Michigan State will be the last time Chester Frazier takes the Assembly Hall court as a player at Illinois.

"I'm looking forward to Sunday," he said today. "I'm kind of anxious to play.""

But it remains to be seen if the senior from Baltimore will remain at Illinois in another capacity. Coach Bruce Weber said again today Frazier has been offered the chance to stay with the program next season, as a student assistant.

"One way or another we're going to try to work it out where he can stay on," Weber said.

Frazier is on pace to graduate in August, after completing his coursework and a summer internship. He hasn't decided if he will pursue a playing career or join the basketball staff at Illinois.

"I'm leaning towards that (returning) right now," Frazier said, adding with a laugh, "Obviously, I feel like I've got a couple years left in my legs, maybe one or two. But seriously, I love to compete. I love to play. If I had the opportunity to go somewhere and play for even the smallest amount of dollars, I would definitely try it. My heart is in basketball, so whatever I do, I'll be involved in the game. Coming back here would be a great opportunity."

For Senior Day, Frazier has a special gathering of family. His older brother James, who recently completed his work in the Navy, is already in C-U. James will see Chester play in a basketball game in person for the first time since Chester was in high school. Their mom, Peggy Lynch, and youngest brother Josh are schedule to arrive this afternoon.

Sunday figures to be an emotional day for the head coach, as well. Weber is particularly close to Frazier.

"To me, in a way, it's kind of what I was when I grew up," Weber said. "I just loved to play. I fought, I would dive on the playground, rip my knees up. I didn't care. I guess I can relate to him, how he is and how he plays."

Frazier said of Weber, "He's been the positive male figure in my life since my dad died (in April 2007). Along with coach (Wayne) McClain and Jerrance (Howard) and coach (Tracy) Webster, they've helped me out a lot."

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