Illinitalk: Alone in Second

Monday, January 26, 2009

Alone in Second

That's where the Illini stand in the conference after holding on to beat Wisconsin Saturday. The 64-57 victory wasn't perfect, but it was a big win.

Highlights:

Defense. Bruce has his boys consistently locking down on leading scorers in the first half, seriously disrupting the other team's flow. The Badgers shot 35.6% in Champaign. And Mike Tisdale had 3 block and his defense down low is improving.
Demetri McCamey. Many called this his most complete game of the season, with 25 points and 7 assists. No question he led the Illini.
Free throws. 18 of 22 with great shooting down the stretch to hold off the pesky Badgers.
Offensive balance. Yes, McCamey carried the scoring, but as a team the Illini maintained beautiful passing, but a few more drives were mixed in. It all added up to less predictability and 50% shooting. Plus, Dominique Keller and Calvin Brock continue to be reliable performers off the bench.

Wisconsin played hard, but the Illini managed to hold on, even when the momentum started to turn in the final minutes. The Illini continued to be out-rebounded, and they had more turnovers than necessary.

But the Illini stand alone in second place in the Big Ten at the moment. And given the craziness of the season thus far, that's worth noting. Yes, there is a long way to go, but these Illini are on track to exceed expectations.

Next up: Tubby and the Golden Gophers at The Barn. Go Illini!

# posted by Alma Mater : 6:08 PM

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Monday, January 26, 2009

Alone in Second

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