This group’s offensive firepower and chemistry have been off the charts thus far.
This has arguably been one of the most exciting seasons in the program’s rich history. This year’s team has loads of talent, versatility, unselfishness, and no shortage of fun personalities. Their impressive play on the court has been extremely fun to watch, paired with the fact that this group clearly likes each other, has made this a special season so far.
After reflecting on the current 12-game win streak, as well
as the fact this Illinois team is currently ranked 5th in the AP poll, I can’t help but think about this team’s ceiling. The way they haven’t missed a beat after losing starting guard — and the team’s best on-ball defender — Kylan Boswell, has been extremely impressive and also shows the high upside this group has. They have showed they can get it done on both ends of the floor consistently against other top teams.
It can be difficult to place high expectations on nearly any team come NCAA Tournament time. One week a top tier team can look unbeatable, yet the next week they are losing to a mid major you haven’t heard of in the first round. It is arguably the most difficult and unpredictable tournament in sports. However, it would be hard not to admit that anything less than an elite eight or even final four is seen as disappointing. This team has looked every part of a contender over the last month and a half.
In my opinion, this team undoubtedly has a strong chance of competing for a national title this season. They have the size, skill, shooting, and offensive firepower to beat anyone. Having a player that can carry your team for stretches like Keaton Wagler can bodes extremely well for a deep March run. And their play as a team defensively recently has been almost as impressive as their offense, especially considering they haven’t had Boswell the last few games.
Anything can happen in March, but I don’t see Illinois being an early NCAA Tournament exit unless they have some extreme shooting woes. Barring a drastic change, they will likely be a 1-2 seed with a good chance to make it out of their regional. This truly could be the year the 21-year drought is ended, with the potential to raise multiple banners.
