Illinois Falls to IU, 65-63
By Jeff Mayfield

[March 12, 2022]   The Illinois basketball team had a rocky outing in their Big Ten Tourney opener Friday and were bounced from the tournament 65-63 by the Indiana Hoosiers.

The Illini shot only 36% from the field and made 4 turnovers in the last 2 minutes that sealed the loss. Even with all of that, a missed layup in the game’s final seconds would have allowed Illinois to advance. But it was that kind of day-missed layups and free throws led to their downfall.

However, I’m not so sure that it’s the worst thing that could have happened. Last year the Illini ran the table on this very same court to win the BTT title. Then they went on to have heavy legs the next two games especially against Loyola. I’m sure it didn’t help their overall NCAA seed, but it will all come down to matchups anyway.

And then there’s this-more days to heal, get rested up, and spend time preparing for the games that really matter. While this game shows that any team can knock you off your perch, this Illini team has the potential to win 3 or 4 games at the Big Dance or have the run the fans have dreamed of for ages.

The Illini did play again without the services of Jacob Grandison and hopefully these extra days of treatment and rehab will have him ready for action late next week wherever the Illini are sent.

Stay tuned to the LDN and we’ll have all the details as the Illini take aim at an outstanding NCAA tournament performance.

[By JEFF MAYFIELD]

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