Before we get to the breakdown of what happened in the Illinois Fighting Illini first loss, (Illinois was one of the last 6 unbeaten teams remaining in the nation) suffered at the hands of the Missouri Tigers 82-73, a few observations and notes on this series and rivalry overall, with updated stats. -Why is this even called the Braggin' Rights game? I mean seriously, how … [Read more...] about #10 Illinois Fighting Illini suffer first loss to #17 Missouri
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Illini Guard Brandon Paul is National College Hoops Player of the Week
The U.S. Basketball Writers Association has selected Illinois guard Brandon Paul as its Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week. And of course he's the Big Ten Player of the Week as well. Paul, a 6-4 junior from Gurnee, Ilinois (Warren high school), led the Illini to a 79-74 win over #5 Ohio State, scoring 43 points to go with eight rebounds and four blocks. The 43-point … [Read more...] about Illini Guard Brandon Paul is National College Hoops Player of the Week
Illini Hoops Want More Defense Behind Leaders Richardson, Paul
One of the biggest reasons the Illini fell well short of preseason expectations last year was their lack of defensive heart and intensity. It isn't like a Bruce Weber coached team to not defend, and last year Illinois lost way too many games because their inability to get stops down the stetch and in crunch time. Especially on the road, Illinois would dig deep holes for … [Read more...] about Illini Hoops Want More Defense Behind Leaders Richardson, Paul
Sophomore Brandon Paul electrifies Illini Opener Once Again
Where was this Brandon Paul in February and March? For the second year in a row, Paul started the Illini season off with an impressive showing. Last year against Southern Illinois-Edwardsville, Paul stole the spotlight of the season opener, draining 4 of 6 shots from behind the arc and finishing with 22 points – a freshman debut scoring record. Tuesday, opening the season … [Read more...] about Sophomore Brandon Paul electrifies Illini Opener Once Again
You Can Possibly Spell Fighting Illini with NIT Still
By Paul M. Banks and Paul Schmidt Never bet against red on Valentine's Day. The scarlet clad Ohio State Buckeyes 72-53 dominance of Illinois on February 14th was both shocking and disturbing. Like finding out your fiance once appeared in an early "Girls Gone Wild" video. It dramatically alters both your expectations and your beliefs. … [Read more...] about You Can Possibly Spell Fighting Illini with NIT Still