Illinois Basketball Stars Shine

Illinois Basketball Stars Shine

Illinois Basketball dug deep and pulled out a close one in College Park vs Kevin Willard’s Maryland Terrapins.  The Illini had not beaten the Terrapins on the road since the Bruce Weber era when they took home a 71-62 win in 2011.  On Saturday, Illinois was finally able to put that 5-game streak to bed, with an 85-80 win at College Park. Certainly, heavily influenced by the high level of play by Illinois stars Terrance Shannon Jr, and Marcus Domask.

Mr. 2000

The SIU Saluki transfer played his tail off on the East Coast on Saturday. Finishing the day with 19 points, 12 rebounds, and shooting 1-2 from deep in a double-double performance. Of course, his defensive efforts were the icing on the cake. The tides turned for Illinois when Domask made a monster block on a speedy transition late, and was able to heave one deep to Coleman Hawkins for a big dunk. Marcus was also able to secure his 2000th career point vs Maryland on Saturday. Certainly a massive accomplishment for the young man who made a major transition to the Big Ten. He has certainly shined for Illinois Basketball.

Terrance Shannon Jr

Terrance led the way in scoring for Illinois, and once again had a very solid Big Ten performance. Finishing the day with 27 points, and 2 assists. Shannon Jr did not have his best day from 3, as he ended the game 1-7 from deep. However, he was extremely aggressive in the paint, and did a great job of softening the Terrapin defense. The Illinois star was a heavy contributor to the foul problems Maryland faced late in the second half. He draws a ton fouls at the rim, including 12 today, as he continues to reach full confidence in the pain…. Look out. Good timing for Brad Underwood and this Illinois unit. After 31, and 27 point performances back to back for the Illinois star, it is safe to say Brad Underwoods assessment of Shannon being “Full go” after his time missed, was a solid read.

Thoughts

With Wisconsin losing their 5th game out 6, Illinois was able to create more separation between themselves, and the Badgers. Purdue still sits atop the Big Ten, but Illinois is keeping themselves within striking distance. Certainly, the March 5th matchup vs the Boilers is going to be a massive game for both teams and fans, and will create a lot of tension around this Big Ten race. With Illinois being names a 4-seed in today’s CBS tournament preview, a possible Quad-one victory over Kevin Willards squad will be a nice boost to the resume.

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