Preview: Struggling Illinois Basketball vs No. 3 Duke

Despite a rough stretch, Illinois Basketball must now refocus once again, this time for one of its toughest challenges of the season—a showdown against the nation’s top player, Cooper Flagg, and the No. 3 Duke Blue Devils.

The game will take place at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York City, a venue that head coach Brad Underwood calls “The Hallowed Place” and a “very, very exciting” and “Special” opportunity for his squad. For an Illini team in need of a spark, a neutral-site victory over a top-tier opponent could be just what the doctor ordered to get back on track prior to March.

However, Illinois faces more than just a formidable opponent.

Unfortunately, the Illini have been in a constant battle with illness and injuries, making the road to victory that much more difficult. Furthermore, health and “Getting whole” have become central concerns for Underwood and his staff, making it a focal point of progress moving forward toward post-season play. Reflecting on the Illini’s recent 95-74 loss to Wisconsin, Underwood highlighted the challenges his team has faced, stating, “It’s a really tough situation. Jake (Davis) doesn’t even make it out for the second half due to illness symptoms. I think we’ve had one practice since our West Coast trip where we’ve had our whole team, and that’s been challenging.”

A look at Duke

Now, the Illini face perhaps their toughest test of the season against the 23-3 Blue Devils and a potential future No. 1 NBA Draft pick in Flagg. The freshman phenom is averaging an impressive 19.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, as well as shooting 48.6% from the field, making him a serious threat to take over.

With Morez Johnson Jr. sidelined due to a broken wrist, Illinois’ frontcourt will also have to contend with Duke’s 7-foot-2, 250-pound center Khaman Maluach, a productive rim protector, who averages 8 points and 6 rebounds per game.

All things considered, this game will be a massive test for Illinois Basketball. If the Illini can “control the controllables,” as Underwood stated in his presser, establish a steady offensive rhythm, and not get gouged in the paint, they could make this an interesting battle in the Big Apple.

Feb 8, 2025. Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood looks on during the first half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. At Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images.

Underwood’s Outlook On Illinois Basketball vs #3 Duke

“A Duke team that’s having a great year,” says Underwood.

“John’s (Scheyer) done a really really good job with this team. They’ve got a nice mix of veterans and new guys. Obviously, Cooper (Flagg) is as good as advertised. I think he’s one of the best players I’ve seen come into college basketball in years. His versatility, his athleticism, I think he just turned 18…. it’s scary. Kon’s (Knueppel) had a great year (13.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 44.5% FG). And, they protect the rim. I think they’re a very very good defensive team, which, is a tribute to John, and the attitude he’s put on that team.”

Following up on health, Underwood is adamant that his team must adapt to the untimely obstacles. “No Excuses. Guy’s have got to step up. We’ve got to adapt. Get back to some of the things we offensively were doing. We’re still a top-15 offense. Furthermore Underwood says, “we’ve got to get back to offensive rebounding, get back to chasing balls. That’s the key for us.”

Watch Illinois Basketball take on No. 3 Duke at MSG at 7 PM (CST) on Fox (2/22).

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

We at Armchair Illini are proudly sponsored by Hamilton Walker’s Steak, Seafood, and Spirits. Located in the heart of downtown Champaign, there is certainly no better restaurant for Illini fans to visit. Order online here or call (217) 350-0363 to make a reservation.

Above all, for feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at [email protected]. Additionally, please use our Seatgeek code for $20 off your purchase on Seatgeek.com: ARMCHAIRILLINOIS. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing Illinois media outlets around.

Thank you for reading Armchair Illini! Furthermore, Subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.