Illinois Basketball: Dainja Zone in Round of 64

Illinois Basketball: Dainja Zone in Round of 64

The month of March has belonged to Dain Dainja. Illinois basketball won their round of 64 matchup vs Morehead State on Thursday afternoon. In typical Illini fashion, it was not without some drama. Illinois fell to an early 9-0 deficit and the panic bells started to go off in a lot of fan’s minds. Illinois crept back, however, and found themselves in a dog fight with 15 minutes left to go. As they did in the Big Ten Tournament, Illinois basketball flipped a switch and went on an incredible run.

Once again, the run was led by Dain Dainja. Dainja has been electric during the month of March and has carried Illinois to victory once again.

Dain Dainja: 21 points 8 rebounds

Dain had the stat line above, however, his sheer presence opened up the game for Illinois. Dainja was physical and played with a motor that we needed to see every single game. He ran the floor incredibly well and just overpowered the mid-major Eagles. Illinois Basketball will need a stronger performance from all if they are to make their first Sweet 16 in 19 years. The Illini will play the Duquesne Dukes and there is a full expectation that Illinois will punch their ticket.

HIGHWAY TO THE DAINJA ZONE pic.twitter.com/GStGeeA9RC

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) March 21, 2024

Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, Dain Dainja, and Luke Goode all did their part. However, Illinois needs more from Quincy Guerrier, Justin Harmon, and Ty Rodgers. If the entire team is clicking, watch out for the Illinois Fighting Illini.

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