INDIANAPOLIS — It was a Big Ten and Big East showdown at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Wednesday. The Fighting Illini women's basketball team secured their first-ever postseason championship by defeating Villanova 71-57 in the Women's Basketball Invitation Tournament.
Illinois Head Coach Shauna Green, in just her second year at the helm, orchestrated a remarkable journey for the Illini, guiding them to postseason success and etching their names in Illinois basketball history.
"It's been a season to remember because of what we went through, a lot of tough times, and ups and downs. When you go through adversity, it makes it so much worth it when you get to what you want," Green said, reflecting on the team's journey.
Last season marked Green's debut, during which she swiftly steered her troops to the NCAA Tournament and set the stage for continued success this year. However, this victory holds a special significance for the Illinois women, marking their first-ever postseason championship and breaking a 15-year hiatus from consecutive postseason appearances.
"I couldn't be more proud of this team," Green continued. "The last few weeks through the WBIT, I had a lot of fun coaching these guys. I've never smiled so much during games before."
The Illini faced adversity early in the season with All-Big Ten guard Makira Cook sidelined due to injury, but under Green's guidance, the team remained resilient and focused, overcoming obstacles to emerge stronger than ever.
"I would describe this as a season of when adversity hits, address it, learn from it, move on from it, and get better," Cook said. "It's all about the confidence Coach Green instills in us... We all stood up to the challenge as women and we really handled our business."
Cook was definitely 'Cookin.' She let the country see her real game against Villanova, delivering a stellar performance with 27 points, two rebounds and five assists. Her contributions earned her the prestigious title of Most Outstanding Player of the WBIT.
Throughout the season, Illinois demonstrated growth and resilience, with impressive wins over NCAA teams, including Nebraska, the 12th-ranked Indiana Hoosiers and a crucial road win against Michigan. Green strategically utilized the WBIT as an opportunity for her team to get better, and attract potential recruits and transfers.
Illinois dominated on both ends of the court, led by Cook's offensive firepower and senior forward Kendall Bostic's dominating presence in the paint. Bostic's milestone moment — surpassing 1,000 career points — added to the historic significance of the victory, earning her a well-deserved place on the All-Tournament team alongside standout guard Genesis Bryant.
Looking ahead, the Fighting Illini women's basketball team appears poised for future success, with the potential return of key starters and the addition of highly touted recruit Berry Wallace. As the Fighting Illini celebrate their WBIT Championship victory, they look forward to building on this success and future championship aspirations.
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This article is part of Kedric Prince's QC Illini Reports with WQAD.
Email: PrinceKedric@gmail.com
Twitter: @KedPrince4
Check out more from Kedric Prince's QC Illini Report at WQAD
