The Illinois basketball team showcased their resilience and skill in an emphatic victory against Southern, winning 90-55 on Monday. This game marked their first outing in a week and just their second since December 14, a stretch that fans might hope to avoid in the future.
Illinois overcame a rocky start characterized by turnovers, but quickly found their rhythm, leading by 21 points at halftime. The game highlighted several promising aspects of the team’s performance that could bode well for the remainder of the season.
One standout player was David Mirkovic, whose season has been marked by ups and downs typical for a freshman. Demonstrating increased activity on the court, Mirkovic contributed 11 points, six rebounds, and two assists. His movement without the ball proved effective, allowing him to make key plays. If he continues to drive toward the basket and maintain his energy, Mirkovic could become a consistent scoring option for Illinois.
Keaton Wagler also impressed with his versatility and leadership. In just his first year, Wagler has emerged as a critical player for Illinois, exemplifying how to perform under pressure. He balanced his role against Southern by scoring 11 points, while also collecting 10 assists and seven rebounds, successfully guiding his teammates through complex game situations. His ability to inspire those around him is a critical asset as Illinois continues to grow.
Shooting from beyond the arc has been a mixed bag for Illinois this season; however, they displayed impressive three-point accuracy against Southern, hitting 41% of their attempts. This shooting prowess has proven vital for the team’s success: they remain undefeated when shooting 35% or better from three-point range. The Illini’s ball movement facilitated open looks, leading to significant contributions from the bench.
Concerns about injuries were mitigated during the game when Kylan Boswell temporarily exited due to an ankle scare but quickly returned. Illinois appears better prepared than ever to handle injuries with their depth, featuring capable backups across all positions. This depth allows Coach Underwood to adjust without losing momentum, reinforcing optimism about the team’s chances in the upcoming March tournaments.
Finally, Jake Davis shone as a potent offensive weapon off the bench, scoring a team-high 15 points, including an impressive 5-of-6 from three-point range. His ability to provide a spark will be crucial for the Illini, enhancing the team’s overall dynamics. If the team can consistently harness this type of production from their bench players, their potential for success in the remainder of the season is promising.
As the Illini move forward, this victory could serve as a turning point, reinforcing their confidence and determination as they aim high in the competitive landscape of the Big Ten.