What a game against a very tough Illini team. We have some tough games coming up, but have to love the start of the season. Wasn't sure we were going to win this one midway through that first half, where we struggled, but this team never gives up - just grinding it out all the way. Getting 36 FTs to 15 for them helped, although the last 10 or so of those were in foul-mode at the end of the game.
Harper with 28/9 and was lights out in the 2nd half, especially from deep - All American is in reach the way he's playing. And JY and Mathis both playing well with 24 and 15 (and Tez should've had 19 if not for those two blown dunks) and great defense. But maybe the unsung here of the game was Myles with 9/13 and 3 blocks, 3 steals and 1 assist and some great defense against maybe the best big man in the B1G - and not getting into foul trouble. Mulcahy also played pretty well with 8/7 and drawing that critical flagrant foul and some great help defense at times and hitting 6-6 FTs. Geo with a quiet 7 points and 5 assist and it's pretty cool that we can with without him lighting it up. Cliff did ok while he was in, but tough for him to guard Cockburn - hope his ankle is ok.
How awesome would it been to have been there today? It just sucks not being able to be at these games, but still a great win. Coach Pikiell had good rotations, but we're going to need more than 7 guys (and we played only 6 once Cliff went out - we need at least one of the other frosh to step up a bit), but kudos to Coach for having the team come out playing better ball in the 2nd half, especially on defense, where we just turned it up a notch. Great, great win.
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