MINNEAPOLIS — In a thrilling battle at the Big Ten Tournament Championship game, Illinois found a way to beat the Wisconsin Badgers, securing not only the tournament title but also a prestigious No. 3 seed in the upcoming March Madness.
Terrence Shannon Jr., the standout senior guard, was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2024 Big Ten Tournament and earned a spot on the All-Tournament team.
Shannon's remarkable performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of legendary.
Breaking a Big Ten Tournament record, he dazzled audiences with a forty-point spectacle against the Ohio State Buckeyes and capped off the championship game with 34 points, four rebounds and two assists. His partner in crime, Marcus Domask, also delivered a stellar showing, contributing 26 points, seven rebounds and eight assists to secure the victory for Illinois on Sunday afternoon.
The significance of Shannon's achievements extends beyond individual accolades. His name now sits among basketball greats who have averaged 30 points or more in a Power 5 conference tournament since 1996-97, a list that includes luminaries like Kevin Durant and Doug McDermott. Shannon's remarkable feat underscores his importance to Illinois' success and cements his legacy for the Illini.
Reflecting on the team's triumph, Head Coach Brad Underwood expressed admiration for their opponents, acknowledging Wisconsin's formidable skills and predicting a strong showing for them in the NCAA Tournament. "What a great feeling," Underwood remarked. "Hats off to Wisconsin, they are good. They will make a lot of noise in the NCAA Tournament."
Underwood's sentiments echoed the sentiment of humility and respect that defines the Big Ten conference. "When you're a part of something that's really special, that's the Big Ten," he stated. "I couldn't be prouder of our guys." Indeed, Illinois' journey to the championship epitomized their great season finishing with a record of 26-8.
As the team looks ahead to March Madness, there's a sense of optimism and determination permeating the Illinois locker room. Forward Coleman Hawkins, though critical of his own shooting performance, emphasized the team's resilience and ability to make crucial adjustments. "We have to stay ready and stay dialed into detail," Hawkins stated. "That's why we won games—we paid attention to details."
For Domask, the championship victory held profound personal significance. "It means everything for me to win this today," he said. "Throughout my college career, I haven't gotten a ring yet. Today I did, these were conversations with coach when they were recruiting me to come here."
With the Big Ten Tournament trophy in hand and a No. 3 seed secured for March Madness, Illinois is poised to make a deep run in the tournament. Led by the dynamic duo of Shannon Jr. and Domask, along with the guidance of Coach Underwood, the Fighting Illini stand ready to leave their mark on college basketball's biggest stage.
As they prepare to face Morehead State in Omaha, the nation eagerly anticipates witnessing the next chapter in Illinois' quest for glory.
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