Illinois Basketball named the Top Big Ten team per Tom Izzo

On Sunday morning, Illinois basketball fell short of a big-time win at the Breslin Center. They fell to the Michigan State Spartans by two points despite their star player, Kasparas Jakucionis, playing a grand total of 9 minutes. The officiating was in question, though Jakucionis did make some mistakes on the road. Despite missing Jakucionis, the Illini had some chances to take control of the game and beat the current leaders of the Big Ten. There is no doubt that the Illini will have February 15th marked on their calendars for revenge.

After the game, Spartans head coach Tom Izzo continued to speak extremely highly of the Illini.

Strong Praise:

“I said it before the game, and now I’ll say it after the game: I really do believe they’re the best team in the league right now,” “I’m not slighting us, I’m not slighting Purdue, I’m not slighting Michigan or anyone else. I just think right now that was a tough team to play.”

Izzo’s compliments fall in line with what a lot of college basketball fans think. Illinois basketball has as high a ceiling as any team in the Big Ten. Unfortunately, they are very young and inexperienced and heavily rely on a style of basketball that is high-risk high reward. When they are on, there is no one in the country that can beat them. When shots stop falling like they did vs Northwestern, the Illini are extremely vulnerable.

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.

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