Sophomore shortstop Ja'Lil Akbar has committed to Eastern Illinois. Ja'Lil with be the 17th Blue Knight to play for the Panthers. Eastern Illinois competes in the Ohio Valley Conference. 

As a freshman, Ja'Lil played in 50 out of 52 games, hitting .289 and led the team in stolen bases with 22 while only being caught twice. His most important value comes on the defensive side with with a solid glove and a lot of range. Ja'Lil has made big strides at the plate and has continued to get stronger. He will continue to play a big part this spring in the middle of infield and being one of the leaders on the team. 

Ja'Lil is from Louisville, Kentucky and attended Pleasure Ridge Park High School.