OMAHA, Neb. — March 20th, 2022, marked a significant moment for the Illinois men's basketball team as they faced off against Kelvin Sampson's Houston Cougars in Pittsburgh during the NCAA Tournament.
The game, however, ended in disappointment for Illinois as the Cougars, led by Taze Moore, dominated Illinois. Moore, who averaged just 10.2 points per game during the season, put up 21 points against the Illini while also grabbing seven rebounds. Despite a valiant effort from 7-foot-0 All-American Center Kofi Cockburn, who contributed 19 points and eight rebounds, Illinois struggled to find its rhythm, shooting just 34% from the field.
Reflecting on the loss, many questioned Houston's seeding, feeling they were underrated as a five-seed. The Cougars proceeded to advance to the Elite Eight, eventually losing to Villanova that year.
During a conversation at an AAU event that summer in Brookfield, IL, Illini Head Basketball Coach Brad Underwood shared insights into the evolving landscape of college basketball. Underwood said, "The game has changed... Houston defended us, ran us, pressured us, and sped us up. It was enough for me to see that's the direction college basketball is headed."
Drawing inspiration from Houston's success, Illinois assembled a roster reminiscent of the Cougars team. Anchored by All-American guard Terrence Shannon Jr., whose stellar performance has shattered records, the Illini have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in this year's tournament. Former Villanova coach Jay Wright commended Shannon's exceptional talent, noting his versatility and scoring skills.
In addition to Shannon's brilliance, Underwood has leveraged the unique skill set of Marcus Domask, whose versatility in the post has garnered attention nationally. Domask's recent triple-double against Morehead State 12 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists exemplifies his impact on the court, contributing to Illinois' success.
Underwood emphasized the havoc created by the team's long wings and their ability to disrupt opponents' strategies. This disruptive force has been instrumental in propelling Illinois to continue winning in March.
Terrence Shannon Jr. has consistently delivered exceptional performances, with a game-high 30 points against Duquesne, tying for second on the Illini's all-time NCAA Tournament single-game scoring list. Meanwhile, Marcus Domask's contributions have been equally impressive, reaching double-digit scoring in consecutive games.
Furthermore, Dain Dainja's record-breaking streak underscores the depth and talent within the Illinois program. Dainja the stage for continued success in the tournament Dainja the Illinois program record for consecutive made field goals at 19, matching the mark set by Derek Harper (Feb. 17-23, 1983).
As the Fighting Illini advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time in nineteen years, they carry with them a roster brimming with talent and guided by a great coach. Illinois is poised to make a lasting impression on college basketball in the tournament.
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